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[ July 13, 1871, 


THE 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE, 
COTTAGE GARDENER, 


COUNTRY GENTLEMAN, 
BEE-KEEPER, AND POULTRY CHRONICLE, 


A JOURNAL OF GARDENING, RURAL AND DOMESTIC ECONOMY, BOTANY, AND NATURAL HISTORY, 


CONDUCTED BY 


GEORGE W. JOHNSON, F.R.H.S., anp ROBERT HOGG, LL.D. 


aH SRULE AND KITCHEN GARDENS, by Mr. J. Robson, GARDENING CALENDAR, by My. William Keane, 
E) to Vi abe i rk; . 2 
rdener to Viscount Holmesdale, M.P., Linton Park; and POULTRY-KEEPING, by Mr. J. Baily; E. Hewitt, Esq.; and 


J. Douglas, The Gardens, Loxford Hall, Essex. 


THE FLOWER GARDEN, by Mr. G. Abbey; Mr. T. Record, Gardener 
to the Marquis of Salisbury, Hatfield House; and Mr. E. Luck- 


L. Wright, Esq. 
PIGEONS, AVIARY BIRDS, &c., by “ Wiltshire Rector;” W. A. 


hurst, Old Lands, Buxted, Sussex. Blakston, Esq., and others. 

STOVE, GREENHOUSE, and WINDOW GARDEN, by Mr. R. Fish, BEE-KEEPING, by T. W. Woodbury Esq.; “B. & W.;” and 
Gardener, Putteridge Bury, near Luton. Mr. S. Bevan Fox. 

FLORISTS’ FLOWERS AND FLORICULTURE, by the Rey. H. H. HOUSEHOLD ARTS, by the Authoress of “My Flowers,” and 
Dombrain. ~ others. z 


LIBRARY 
NEW YORK 
BOTANICAL 

GARDEN. 


VOLUME XX. NHW SERIBS. 
VOU. XLY., OLD SERIES. 


LONDON: 
PUBLISHED FOR THE PROPRIETORS, 171, FLEET STREET. 


1871. 


ya LONDON: ee 
PRINTED AT THE JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE OFFICE, 
iid 171, FLEET STREET. ~ 


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July 18, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. iii 
AT Ope ee SRR a ae Am SES Sa ARIAS 5 ny 


TO OUR READERS. 


Waar we should have said to you for this—the forty-fifth—time must ever remain among the things 
unknown, if the International Exhibition had not brought to London, and so inevitably to our office, 
that spade’s-a-spade-calling woman, Miss Penelope Pomeroy. ‘There’s her chair, just as she has left 
it, appropriately all a-twist, and the hum of this really Cornish Bee is still upon our ears. She is a 
bee, because though she stings with a will, she also affords honey—she subscribes regularly, pays 
promptly, praises us when absent, and sends us Pine Apples. ‘‘So you have turned reformers, I see. 
If people choose to pay a guinea a-pound for Strawberries, why not let ’em? You will not be the 
better for having them supplied for half that money. Remember, Lord Melbourne was a reformer, and 
his reforming taught him a lesson. Whenever a change was proposed he always said, ‘ Can’t we leave — 
that alone?’ SoI say, Can’t you leave the Covent Garden monopolists alone ?” 


With becoming dignity, and in a tone and words well expressing, we replied that we felt it our 
editorial duty to be guardians of the public interests. 


“Guardians of public fiddlesticks! Pooh! If you are bent upon needful reforms, reform your 
own pages. You begin to need new type; you ought to report more country shows—I mean horti- 
cultural, not cock-a-doodle shows, we have enough of them.” 


We looked at each other—that is, we two Editors did, and the least young, with apparent humility, 
and certainly with great command of temper, said that both those reforms were contemplated, adding, 
with his usual ingenuity, ‘‘ We shall not inquire, like Lord Melbourne, Can’t we leave that alone ?” 


“That's right,” said Miss Penelope, rising, ‘‘ and if I were a man I’d give each of you a Cornish 
hug,” which, as she is fifty and not well-favoured, we looked as if contented to have been spared. 


We thought she was gone when the least old of us had closed the door, but it re-opened, and the 
comment reached us—‘‘ You’ve some rational new contributors. I am well pleased with them.” No 
response could be given, and was not wished for, for the door was reclosed promptly and sharply. We 
looked at each other as men look when they feel inclined to be indignant, and yet think it best to seem 
indifferent. «Never mind,” said the least young, ‘ we will tell our readers.” 


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July 18, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. v 


ABERDEEN Pouttry SHOW, 73, 93 

Abronia umbellata, 221 

Abutilon, culture, 90: striatum sow- 
ing, 168; venosum culture, 187 

Accrington Poultry Show, 360 

Achimenes culture, 426 7 

&chmea fulgens for table decoration, 
418 

Agave ixtlioides, 200 

Almond planting, 54 

Alocasi culture, 72, 242 

“ Alpine Plants,” 201, 288 

Amaryllis, list and culture, 92; Ray- 
neri, 145, 200 

Amateur, who is an? 260; defined, 445 

Amateurs beware, 103 

America, jottings in, 288 

American blight, 446 

American wild flowers, 402 

Androsace carnea v. eximia, 426 

Annuals, for border, 108, 168; for flower 
beds, 261; for greenhouse, 204; for 
early sowing, 168 

Anthurium Scherzerianurh, 408 _ 

Ants, 367, 409; banishing, 187; in Cu- 
cumber bed, 844, in house, 242; 
puzzling, 261; on lawn, 327 

Appleby’s fumigator, 279 

Apples—preservation of, 285; stock 
propagation, 169; trees, rabbits at- 
tacking, 124, budding, 445, mildewed, 
873; leaves withering, 858; Croft- 
en-Reich, Galloway Pippin, 236 

Apricot, leaves curling, 309 ; trees gum- 
ming, branches dying off, 873, 874 

Araucaria imbricata at Bicton, 435 

Arbor-Vitez hedge cutting, 260 

Arboricultural Society’s Transactions, 
387 

Argemone mexicana, 305 

Artisan, who is one ? 408 

Arum maculatum, 285 

Arundo donax, 221 3 

Aristolochia Duchartrei, 25 

Ash, grafting weeping, 261 

Asparagus—beetle, 404; Connover’s, 
408; culture, 292, 428; cutting, 889; 
forcing, 32,48; weak, 808, 826, 327 

Aspect for glass structures, 148 

Asphalte walks, 93,260 = 

Asters, growing for exhibition, 874; 
perennial, 279 

Asystasia violacea, 29,200 F 

Aacubas, 54, 278; berries, 18 ; berricd, 
526; from berries, 168 ; for conserva- 
tory, 326; grafting, 844; sowing, 13 

Auriculas, 286; stage, 440 

Australian seeds, 127 

Azaleas, after flowering, 841; thrips 
on, 278; weak, 13 ; white, 147; Fanny 
Tillery and Acme, 272 


Baiipon Birp SHow. 189 

Banks, raised, in kitchen garden, 71 

Bantams, 390, 410; cock’s weight, 298; 
feather-legged, 40; Black cock’s tail, 
118; with Dorkings, 450; Game, 40, 
498; breeding Game, 60; breeding 
Sebright, 172 

Baptisia leucopheea, 352 

Barkeria spectabilis culture, 147 

Barrow Poultry Show, 94 

Bath and West of England Poultry 
Show, 892 

Bedding-out, 888 H 

Bedding plants, a few fine, 272; fail- 
ing in frame, 205; discordant opin- 
ions on, 238; house for wintering, 


378 
Bedlington Poultry Show, 411 


INDEX. 


Bees—apiary, largest American, 248; 
apiary extensive, 282; Association, 
American, 298; cheese boxes for, 
172; in a chimney ; 432; coal tar for 
house, 40, 95; empty white comb, 
156; for cottagers, 829, 845, 431, 467 ; 
dead in combs, 248, deserting hive, 
362; dirt from, 862; drones on Lady- 
day, 266; dying, 60,396; dysentery, 
96; eggs, are allof one sex? 468; 
Egyptian, 329; fighting, 266; foul 
brood, 19,77, 113; gas tar on roofing, 
95; hermaphrodite, 247, 814, 861; 
hives, cleaning, 60; new depriving, 
155; hinges of bar-and-frame, 467; 
without a queen, 878; size of, 297; 
Stewarton, 265; for super honey, 
114; ventilation, 265 ; unicomb, 154; 
Woodbury, 226, 414: hive-breakers, 
frustrating, 192; honey days, first, 
861; disqualifiying candied, 378; 
honey spurious, 18; Irish-keeper’s 
difficulties, 449; keeping, &c., 362; 
dead larve ejected, 396: Ligurians, 
40; propagation of, 894: manage- 
ment, 182; messing a hive, 414; 
manner and customs, 345 ; perishing 
jn winter, 877; Mr. Pettigrew’s ba- 
lance-sheet, 247; price, 192; pro- 
sperity, 156; poison medicinal, 296; 
queenless hive, 416; queens, death 
of, 112; introducing, 481; piping 
467; leaving hives, 467: regicide, 
171: stocks examining, 131; super- 
stitions, 207; during snow, 95; 
supers putting on, 880; in winter, 
896; swarms artificial, 252, 862, 895; 
escaping, 414; early. $46, 861; loss of 
346; transferring, 182; uniting, 414; 
wintering. 18; winter ventilation, 
193, 225, 246, 281; near Wolverhamp- 
ton, 170; production of fertile 
workers, 467: not working, 862; 
“The Honey Bee,” 171 

Beet as a bedder, 839 

Begonias. crinita, 272; decaying, 186; 
winter-flowering, 41; with small 
flowers, 92 

Beleperone ciliata, 200 

Berberry planting, 54 

Beta braziliensis culture, 261 

oe jasminoides not flowering, 

eee LgeN Columbarian Show, 74, 


Birmingham Rose Show, 285 

Blackberry orchard, 28 

Blackcaps, rearing, 482 

Bogey soil, cover plants for, 187 

Boilers, 221; setting a conical, 109 

Bombyx Neustria, 257 

Bones, for chickens, 40; dissolving, 
148 ; utilising, 358 

Borecoler, 58 

Botanic Gardens, 100 

Botanic (Royal) Society’s Show, 212, 
271, 382, 420 

Botany, lectures on, 886 

Bottle-brush Plant culture, 294 

Bottom heat on a Jarge scale. 23 

Bouquets, 204; hand. 215; Princess 
Louise’s wedding, £82 

Box, cuttings for edaings, 186; hedge 
Sitageling, 93; trees, transplanting, 


Brahmas—chickens crooked-breasted, 
20; cup for Light, 84, 72; crop dis- 
eased, 40; cockerel vulture-hocked, 
60; prize cup for Light, 93 ; laying 
infermitted, 114; back featherless, 
Dark or Light, judging, 155; hens 


BranMas—Continued. 
featherless, 208; cock, 248; tails, 
298; and Dorkings crossed, 282; 
out of condition, 846; breeding, 
chickens cramped, hen dying sud- 
denly, 830; not laying, 862; hen, 
separating from her chickens, 878 

Bran for poultry, 172, 192, 226 

Brecon Poultry Show, 57 

Bristol Poultry Show, 16, 34, 78 

Brittany, seaweed and market gar- 
dening of, 858 

Broccoli, lifting in autumn, 287; cul- 
ture, 451; varieties, 434; what is? 
415, 484; for winter, 228; Cattell’s 
Eclipse, 398 

Broom culture in Madeira, 805 

Buckwheat culture, 187 

Budding fruit trees, 464 

Bulbs, from the Cape, 889; manage- 
ment, 126 

Bullfinch cage, 298 

Bustard, 246; in Wilts, 158 

Butterflies, Cabbage, 289 


CABBAGE BUTTERFLY, 885 

Cabbages, forwarding, 125; introduc- 
tion, 66; planting, 167; wintering, 106 

Cactacee, 68 

Cactus culture, 90 

Caladiums, culture, 204; soil for, 221 

Calceolarias—bed, edging for yellow, 
261; bedding in 1870, 44: for bedding, 
149, 168; culture, 178, 213; culture 
and failures, 81; compost for, 373; 
cuttings, 428; failures, 187; flower- 
ing late, 209; herbaceovs, 428; 
planting, 147; sowing shrubby, 92; 
weevils on, 409 

Camellias—buds felling, 34, 127; eul- 
ture, 67, 133, 158; cuttings, 294; not 
flowering, 148; after flowering, 242, 
841; flowering in cold pits, 445; 
leaves blotched, 13; leaves spotted, 
204; in cold pits, 294: repotting, 
908: old, 24; sickly, 34; sy ot, 293 

Csmphor for fowls, 226 

Canaries—silver cups for, 77: prize 
cups for. 93; not singing, 156; ma- 
nagement, 156; scurfy-headed, 156; 
skin irritated, 156, 192; conserva- 
tory for. 156; silver cups at the 
Crystal Palace, 118; Mules at the 
Crystal Palace, 190; room, notes 
from my, 207, 226, 245, 265, $18, 393 ; 
spring moulting, 226; judging at 
Woodbridge, 264, 281; pip in, 298; 
eggs unfertile, 314; avoiding para- 
sites, 846; mice in cage, 862; two 
hens to one cock, picking them- 
selves, 482; at Stroud, 412, 448; be- 
come blind, 396; Bullfinch Mule, 192 

Canary-fancier’s wife’s remonstrance, 
246 

Canna culture, 108 

Cannell’s boiler, 274 

Carbolate of lime, 346, 

Carbolic acid v. vermin, 15 
Carnations, in a bed, 205; culture, 3635 
sowing, 826; Perpetual or Tree, 363 
Carter’s prizes, 85, 87; Root Show, 

402 


Cauliflowers, 324; buttoning, 464 
Caution, 346 > 
Ceanothus azureus as a climber, 100 
Cedar, a Jarge, 288; transplanting, 221 
Celery culture, 91, 219, 227 i 
Centaurea candidissima, propagation, 
167; sowing, 54 
Cereus gigantcus, 68 


Chaffinches in garden, 342 

Chamerops Fortunei in a Wardian 
case, 409 

Cheilanthes elegans culture, 842 

Cheimatobia brumata, 50 

Cherries, summer-pruning, 408 

Chichester, Mrs., 411 

Chickens, dead im the shell, 192, 208, 
896; distinguishing, 208 : dying, 450; 
two sorts in one egg, 281. 862; par- 
tially hatched, 361; marking, 346; 
rearing, 844, 328, 859, 875, 410; vora- 
cious and giddy, 378 

Chiswick Garden, 1¢2; of Royal Hor- 
ticultural Society, 386 

Chitteprats, 248 

Chlorocodon Whiteii, 272 

Chrysanthemums, culture, 7, 45; cut- 
tings, 221, 427; plunging potted, 176; 
stopping, 308, 409 

Cinders and fowls’ feet, 226 

Cineraria culture, 284 

Cirsium Grahami. 145 

Citrus japonica culture, 242 

Clematises, new cross-bred, 337 

Clianthus Dampieri culture, 390 

Clifton College Botanic Garden, 358 

Climbers—for conservatory, 148; for 
greenhouse, 90; for a porch, 149; 
for south-east wall, 445; for south 
wall, 108, 842 ; under trees, 342 

Cobea scandens. culinre, 242; seed- 
lings, variegated, dying, 374 

Cochins—not broody, 380; character- 
istics, 96; comb black, 78; comb 
drooping, 247; comb purple, 40; 
comb tips white, 156; dying sud- 
denly. 266; early laying, 414; eggs 
hatching, 298; leg scurfy, J59; 
mating, 156; pullet paralysed, 172; 
pullet prolific, 861; Lemon Buff, 156 

Cock and hen, prizes for, 410 

Cockerel’s weight, 464 

Cock’s comb purple, 40 

Cock one-eyed, 468 

Cockroach, 253 

Colchester Poultry Show, 04, 188; 
Rabbit prizes, 95 

Cold, intense, 6 

Coleus propagation, 310 

Colnmnes) Schiediana flowers falling, 

Comb of cock sore, 248 

Compass Plant, 303 

Compost for plants, 326 

Condiments for fowls, 40 

Conifer from seed, 178 

Conifers, near the sea, 221; from seed, 
2415 seeds, 260 

Conservatory, climber for east wall, 
445; plants for, 278, 842 

Convolvulus, eradicating wild, 409 

Coprinus comatus, 809 

Cordyline heliconifolia, 808 

Coriaria thymifolia, 288 

Cork Poultry Show, 56 

Cornwall market gardening, 402 

Cossus ligniperda, 8% 

Costus Malortieanus, 272 

Cottager, Who is one? 358 

Cottagers, gardens for, 437 

Covent Garden Market, 20, 40, 60, 78, 
96, 114, 182, 156, 172, 192, 208, 226, 24s, 
266, 282, 298, 314, 830, 846, 362, 878, 396, 
414, 432, 450, 468 

Cow dung, insects in, 242 

Creals, white-necked, 208 

Opa recheca claws, 172; ear-lobcs, 

Cripps, W. T., 442 

Criticism, anonymous, 45, 85 


vi JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


Crooked-breasted fowls, 132 

Cross-breeding fowls for table, 114 

Crystal Palace, 369; Bird Show, 129, 
152; Cutbush’s flowers at, 211; Rose 
Show, 459; Show, 866; a florist’s 
notes at, 366 

Cuckoo-spit insect, 404 

Cucumbers—sowing for August, 221; 
in bed, 426; beds, 202; covering, 
446; culture, 257; damping-off, 409; 
deformed, 109; disease, 271, 803, 849, 
898, 435; preventing, 864; in green- 
house, 84, 294, 826; house for, 55, 91, 
204; house failures, 148; for house, 
278; in an unheated house, 374; ina 
lean-to, 427; impregnating, 3809; 
leaves scalded, 279, blistered, 344; 
spotted, 446; planting hardy, 445; 
pit for, 205; shrivelling, 389; sum- 
mer-growing, 209; not swelling, 359 ; 
thrips on, 859; training, 146; Blue 
Gown, 72 

Cup poultry prizes, 244 

Curcuma albiflora, 423 

Currant, aphides on, 874; Black,390; 
Clearwing moth, 256; cuttings, 108; 
trees, blighted, 358, caterpillars on, 
39), mildewed, 373 

Custard for chickens, 330 

Cuttings, bark bed for, 109; making 
and forwarding, 203; ripe and un- 
ripe, 240 

Cyclamens, culture, 24, 127; flower- 
Jess, 204; hederxfolium culture, 261; 
Beedlings early-flowering, 6; sow- 
ing, 

ic ydoniariaponica, pruning, 260; sow- 
ing, 

Cynodon Dactylon, 821 

Cypripedium, Dominianum, 182; ni- 
veum, 338, 850 

Cyrtanthera chrysostephana, 145 


Danson, 865, 881; THE CRITTENDEN, 
300, 349 

Dandelion salading, 446 

Daphne indica treatment, 808; stop- 
ping, 310 

Dargle, the, 822 

Darlingtonia californica, 9, 450 

December, flowering plants in, 46 | 

Byoeromtaings spinosa, propagating, 


Deutzia culture, 147 

Dianthus Heddewigi seedlings, 874 

Diarrhea in fowls, 346, 432 

Dielytra cucullaria, 301 

Digitalis genus improving, 98 

inner table decoration, 108, 181, 200, 
5 


Disa grandiflora, 92 

Doab grass, 821 

Dorkings—and Brahma _ cross, 78; 
chickens dying, 191, 282; early 
chickens, 248; chicken’s toes dis- 
torted, 156; combs, 114; cross-bred, 
414; diseased, 155; Duck-footed, 
266; egg-bound, 113; fattening, 191; 
tongue diseased, 226 ; legs paralysed, 
114; difference between Grey and 
Silver-Grey, 20; Silver-Grey, 450; 
White, 96 4 

Dorstenia Mannii, 428 

Dracena leaves brown, 55 

Drake-Duck, 310 

Drills, garden, 232 

Drive, cost of making, 108 

Drymoda picta, 423 

Dublin Poultry Show, 296, 314 

Ducklings’ age, knowing, 418 

Ducks—and fowls for eggs, 264; eggs 
discoloured, 156; eggs not hatching, 
346, 878; eggs’ yolk dark, 298; food 
for, 191; imported, 482; Rouens with 
East Indian, 266 

Dumfries Poultry Show, 75 

Dung, heat from, 83 


EARTHING-UP, 433 

Earwigs, 390 

Easter, white flowers for,13 

Edging, for a border, 810 ; for kitchen 
garden, 149 pis 

Edinburgh Columbarian Association, 
89, 75 

Edwardsia microphylla, 869 

Egg-bound hen, 208; eating hens, 208, 
244, 862 a. mit 

Eggs — ascertaining fertility, 862; 
chickens in double, 298; chilled, 
846; cracked hatching, 878; best 
hatching time, 878; deficient, 266; 
esky vitality, 172; double- 
yolked, 96; exudation on, 596; 
flavour of, 248; fow!s for, 182, 156; 
preserving, 264, 266, 880; price near 
London, 172; production, 450; sex 
of, 862, 410; shell-less, 226; small 
yolkless, 896; for sitting, 814; sup- 
ply, 40; unfertile, 59; wetting’ in- 
cubating, 830. 

Elephantiasis in fowls, 191 

Elm tree, soil against, 842 

English modern gardening, who most 
promoted? 195 ; 

Entomological Society's Meeting, 67 
180, 218, 253, 804, 367, 457 


Epimedium, foliage, 836; erectum, 852 | 


Epiphyllum flowers drooping, 54 
Epworth Poultry Show, 344 
Eucalypti, uses of, 805 


| 
{ 


Eucalyptus globulus warted, 147 __ 
ucharis amazonica, culture, 92, 381; 
flowering, 261; winter flowering, 
278; four times flowering, 295 

Evergreens, for lawn, for winter beds, 
242; pruning, 344 

Exeter Poultry Show, 466 

Benen fowls over-fattened, 281, 


Exhibiting together differently-aged 
fowls, 20 
Export of fowls to America, 40 


FARRINGDON 
MAREET, 353 

Feather-eating fowls, 172, 450 

Feathers, stiff, 468 

Feet of birds ulcerated, 18 

Fermenting material for pit, 22 

Ferns, exotic, 79, 427; drying, 427; 
fastening dried, 310; culture, 858; 
re-tubbing tree, 168; under trees, 
295; Haresfoot, 338 

Fernery construction, 295 

Feverfew, sowing Golden, 54 

Ficus elastiea propagating, 221; not 
thriving, 222 

“ Field Quarterly,” 9 

Figs, sexes of, 210; Royal Vineyard, 


v. CovENT GARDEN 


Filberts unproductive, 389 

Fittonia argyroneura shoots dying, 22 

Fitzroya patagoniea, 42 

Floor for shed, 464 

Flooring of poultry run, 156 

Floral Society, Metropolitan, 28 

Florida gardens, 405 

Florists’ notes at South Kensington, 
211; garden, 365 

Flower, garden arrangements, 42; 
beds, circular, arrangements, 122 

Flowers, annuals for cut, 221; seed 
sowing, 147; for spring, 464 

Flue, return, 464 

Food, fashion in, 468 

“ Forester, The,” 217 

Form and colour, 835, 315 

Fountains, 338 

Fowls—dung, 278; dying suddenly, 
172; losing feathers, 182; foot 
swollen, 413; handling, 222: hardy, 
78; hunchbacked, 114; over-fat, 450; 
in rooms, 191; shooting straying, 
182; sick, 2G; for small space, 783 
for show, preparing, 814 ; most pro- 
fitable, 314; versus Ducks, 314; 
throat, rattling in, 878; trespassing, 
226, 266; under trees, 59 

Frames, ox, 184; calico for covering, 


Fraxinella sowing, 342 

Fremontia californica, 441 

French fowls, 72, 78 

French gardening and the war, 165; 
horticulturists’ relief fund, 161, 162, 
177, 282 

Frosts, effects of winter’s, 802; in- 
juries from, 857; in Norfolk, 29; 
v. vegetation, 162 
Tuiterers’ Company, 239 

Fruit—culture aided by bees, 405; 
dropping prematurely, 463; growing 
commercially, 420, 488; growers, 
hints to, 251; prospects, 316, 332, 389 ; 
room construction, 186; stone, far 
north, 162; walls, glass against, 342; 
trees, for the north, 5: barked by 
hares, 13: laid in, 54: for small 
gardens, 84, 242: unproductive, 327: 
stopping, 858: newly planted, 186: 
not thinning, 409 

Fuchsias, leaves spotted, 873; select 
single, 18; sessilifolia, 428; Father 
Ignatius, 84 ' 

Fuel economy and slow combustion, 
8, 26, 66, 67, 163 “ 

Fumigating Peaches in flower, 168 

Fungi, 327; coats, 409 

Funkia grandiflora flowerless, 445 

Fungoid parasite, fatal, 285 

Fungus, edible, 809 


GAME, Cocks AT Exurprrions, 16: 
head oiling, 880: moping, 880: wry- 
tailed, 132; at Nantwich, 205; blue 
cocks, 208; varieties together, 248; 
exhibiting, 414; Blue Dun, 222 

Gander and Goose, detecting, 461 

Gardenia culture, 260 3 

Garden, for profit, 293: plotting and 
levelling, 7, 27, 88, 160, 214, 269, 854, 
886, 423 j 

Gardeners—and gardening, 21; cares. 
826; Company, 288; examinations, 
32; exchanging plants, 285, 817; gun 
license, 90; Improyement Societies, 
217; Royal Benevolent Institution, 
284, 487; tux on, 83; in wet weather, 
824; working hours, 409 

Gas, extinguished by a down-draught, 
88; light’s effect on plants, 186 

Geese, Toulouse, 861 

Geraniums—bedding, 22, 168 ; compost 
for, 261, 878 ; cuttings not rooting, 
809; edging for some beds, 859; ina 
frame, 408; frosted, 82; leaves spot- 
ted, 167, 242, 873: variegated, 878: 
fading, 64, 826, 327; in the open air, 
487; seedling, 437; turning out, 204; 
cross-breeding Tricolor, 229; 'Tri- 
color flowering, 809; wild, 251, 801 


Gesnera culture, 72, 825 
Gibraltar garden plants, 451 
Gilia liniflora, 272 
Gillyflower, 808 


Gladioli, 271; culture, $4; dracocepha- 
Jus, 145; planting spawn, 149; of 


the past season, 5 
Gladioluses in pots, 327 


Glass, clouding, 149; plant culture 


under, 97 
Glasgow International Show, 805 


Glazing, 188; laps in, 210; wall, 46; 


without laps, 827 
Goat moth, 82 
Gooseberry, cuttings, 108; 

worsted on, 241 
Goose eggs not hatching, 282 
Gough, Mz., dinner to, $20 
Gourd planting, 445 
Grafting, new mode, 305 
Grape house, a large, 273 


Grapes—amateur’s success, 138; dis- 


eased, 326, 408; exudation in, 343; 


growing in scotland, 26; inarching, 
278; keeping cut, 18; new, 835; re- 


cently introduced, 48; selections of, 
4,65; setting, 63. 97, and crossing, 
84; syringing, 232, 250; thinning, 
301, 857 5 
year, 358: undeveloped, 295; Golden 
Champion, 195, 250, and Black 
Museat of Alexandria, 228; Gros 
Colman, 250; Queen Victoria, 278. 
See also Vines. 

Grass, under Beech, 809; mats, 321; 
seeds, sowing, 186 

Grasses, ornamental varieties of na- 
tive, 116 

ezeat Harwood Show, 818; 828, 360, 
375 

Green fly, preventing, 342 

Greenhouse—back wall. 168; cheap, 
220; climber border, 295; climbers, 
832; cistern in, 55; construction, 
342; glazing, 148; plants for, 72, 168, 


267, 290, 880: blighted, 84: not thriv- 
ing, 127: for north wall, 890; and 


stove, 389; tank, 204; and vinery 
communicating, 358 

Grubs in soil, 310 

Guano liquid manure, 445 “i 

Guinea Fowls. 814, 450; laying, 378; 
sitting time, 899 

Gymnogramma, scale on, 464 


H&®MANTHUS COCCINEUS FOR AUGUST, 
309; deformis, 852; tenuiflorus, v. 
coccineus, 29 

Hamburghs—cock, 846; cock’s comb 
purple, 482; combs, 182; feathers, 
172; hackle off, 830; hardiness, 182; 
breeding Black, 96, 182, 156; cross 
with Black Game, 156; crossing 
with Game, 226; Golden-spangled, 
20, colour of, 846; breeding Golden- 
pencilled, 59; Silver-pencilled, 132, 
172, 248; Silver-spangled, 182, and 
Black, 222 

Handling fowls, 243 

Hants and Berks Poultry Show, 465 

“Hardy Herbaceous and Alpine 
Flowers,” 257 3 

Hares, barking trees, 92; and Rabbits 
versus trees, 804 

Hartweg, Mr. T., 199 

Hatching disasters, 859, 392 

Heaths, winter-blooming, 278 

Heat. obtaining moist, 66 

Heating, by hot water, 212, 874; by 
stove with a chamber, 409; vinery 
and conservatory, 464; Riddell’s ap- 
paratus 374 

Hedaroma tulipiferum, 808 

Hedge, evergreen, 92 

Hedychium culture, 242 

Euan vulgare variegatum, 


Hen-cock, 248 

Hens—dropping eggs, 182; fattening, 
248; fighting, 266; house aspect, 
226; in confined space, 362; legs 
coarse, 191; nesting but not laying, 

Herbaceous plants from seed, 93 

Himmelstern, 428 

Hoar frost, 49 

Hollies, heading down, $10 

Holly hedge neglected, 92 f 

Hollyhocks, notes on, 235; planting, 
127 ; select, 167 

Honeysuckle, Japanese, 899; flower- 
ing, 415 

Hooker, Dr., in Morocco, 278 

Hops, culture, 62, 281, 270; for orna- 
a and use, 186; for an arbour, 

Horse Chestnut bleeding, 446 

Horseradish inferior, 168 _ 

Horticultural (Royal) Society’s Com- 
mittees, Shows, &c., 47, 121, 161, 198, 
252, 286, 818, 851, 400, 486, 456 ; Annual 
General Meeting, 116; balance 
shect, &e., 120; Congress proposed, 
427; Council, 48; Report of, 118; en- 
tomological prizes, 288, 85: Horti- 
cultural Directors’ Report, 120; Mr. 
Marshall’s exhibition scheme, 162; 
prizes, 285, for Primroses and Hy- 
acinths, 122; schedule, 82; Super- 
intendent at Kensington and Chis- 
wick, 87 

Hothbeds, 259 


trees, 


varieties, 92; on Vine first 


[ July 18, 1871. 


Hothouse on a slope, 327 
Hot water, increasing heat from 
pauae) 83; circulating downwards, 


Houdans, 191; moulting, 40 

Houses for fruits and plants, arrange- 
ment of, 186 

Hovea culture, 831 

Hugel, Baron, death of, 258 2 

Hyacinths—in February, 186; in 
glasses, 168; in the open ground, 


AEB prizes, 100; short-stemmed, 
7 
Hybrid and cross-bred 


plants, prizes 
for, 193 2 [299 
Hybridising and cross-breeding, rules, 


IcE, HOUSE, AIR CIRCULATING IN, 83; 
converting building, on glass roofs, 
138; versus glass, 49, 63, 178 

Icing fruit trees, 12 _ 

Inarching, embryonic, 352 

India, gardening in, 805 

Indiarubber Plant, 221, 222 

Influence of male bird, 280, 828 

Ink plant, 288 

Inquiry, 16 4 

Insect-destroying solution, 852 

Insects, some garden predatory, 50, 
86, 179, 233, 256, 289, 297, 867, 385, 403 

International Exhibition, horticultu- 
ral part, 401 

Ireland, notes made in, 143, 236,821 __ 

Iresine, Herbstii sowing, 54; Lindeni 
propagation, 464 a 

Irish Royal Horticultural Society’s 
Show, 802 

Tris reticulata not flowering, 295 

Ivied wall, 189 Kk 

Ivy, pruning, 148, 221, 261; against 
netting, 279 


JACOBIN, MATING A BLUE, 172 - 
ponte culture, 178; not flowering, 
21 


Judges claiming birds at poultry 
shows, 149, 169 
Juniper fungus, 295 


KALE, CULTURE, 5! VARIEGATED, 194 
Kendal Poultry Show, 7 

Kent, W., 847 

idney Beans, early crops, 872 

, fowls near, 172 

Kirkcaldy Poultry Show, 87 
Kitchen garden sowing, 166 

Kohl Rabi culture, 445 


Lackey Morn, 257 

Landscape gardener, our first, 347 

Lantana culture, 90 

Lapageria, alba from seed, 168; rosea 
in pot, 91 

Larches dying, 359 

Larkspur, candelabra-flowered, 29 

“ Laurel Joe,” 321 

Laurels, pruning, 72 

Lavender disease, 445 __ a 

Lawn, Grass and the Daisy, 424; fail- 
ing, 427; grass seeds for, 147; top- 
dressing, 108: manuring, 91; worms 
and moss on, 884; patchy, bare, 204; 
weeds on, 185, 574 

Leaf and root, 425 3 

Leaves—blighted, 148; colours in au- 
tumn, 162; discoloured by syring- 
ing, 809; mould, 129, 148; propu- 
gation by, 220 

Leeds Park Show, 189 

Leg-cramp in chickens, 172 

Legs of hen rough, 60 

Tite Square for a flower market, 

Lemon trees, mealy bug on, 375 

Lettuces, planting, 146; grubs at 
roots, 464 

Lice on fowls, 208 

Lichens on Apple trees, 241 

Lilium tigrinum flore-pleno, 145 

Lily of the Valley, culture, 844; flower- 
less, 294, 889; sowing, 408; in sum- 
mer, 464 

Linum trigynum culture, 278 

Liquid manure evaporating, 279 

Loams defined, 148 

Locust-bean meal for fowls, 468 

wee, 842 

London, G., 195 _ 

tain aureo-reticulata fruiting, 

Lowestoft Poultry Show, 94 

Loxford Hall, 419 


MAGNOLIAs, CUTTINGS, 415; IN POTS, 
o7 


278 
Malays, 244; characteristics, 78; fea- 
ther-eating, &c., 282; prizes, 96, lit 
Malvern Naturalists’ Club, 288 
Manchester and Liverpool Poultry 
Show, 891 
Manchester Poultry Show, 16, 20 
Manchester Naturalists’ Society, 273 
Mandeyilla suaveolens culture, 242 
Mann, death of Mr., 100 
Manure watering, 185 
Manures, liquid, 218 - 
Manuring, surface, 872 
March high temperatures, 182 


July 13, 187i. ] 


Markets, 20, 40, 69, 78, 96,114, 182, 156, 
172, 192, 208, 226, 248, 266, 282, 298, 314, 
830, 846, 362, 378, 896, 414, 432, 450, 
463; proposed new, 820 

Marking fowls, 896 

Massonia odorata, 200 

Master and servant, 141 __ 

Melons—disease, preventing, 864; for 
frame, $0; frames, covering, 446; 
for house, 279; for June, 91; leaves 
scorched, 327 ; pote 858; planting, 
221; sulphuretted, 14 

Meteorology, 60 r 

Metropolitan Floral Society, 338 

Mice, kept from bulbs, 46; poisoned, 
862 


Mignonette, culture, 418; tree ma- 
nagement, for July show, 808 

Mildewin conservatory, 464 

Millipedes in soil, 310 

Mimetie plants, 338. __ 

Mimulus, cross-breeding, 349 

Mint sauce in winter, 414 

Mole Cricket, 233 | 

Monochetum ensiferum culture, 204 

Mooney. the Lancashire, 128, 243 

Morels, 327 

Moss, on wood path, 843 ; for Orchids, 
in shrubbery, 874 

Mound, shrubs for, 148 

Mulberry propagation, 72 

Mulching, 372 

Musa Cavendishii after fruiting, 72 

Mushrooms—bed making, 148; beds, 
temperature, 225, out of doors, 374; 
in a cellar, 54, 109, 889, 427; failures, 
426; growing, 445; house shelves, 
33; management, 53; salt for, 72; 
spawn eccentrie, 64; on Vine 
borders, 409 

Musk, compost for, 873. 

“Mycological Illustrations,” 424 

Myosotis dissitiflora, 808, 533 


Nantwich Poutrry SHow, 111 
Narcissus not flowering, 221 
AEE plants, ornamental varieties, 


Naturalising plants, 853 

Nematus Ribesii, 368 

Nemesia sowing, 498 

Nemophilas in pots, 167 

Nenthead Poultry Show, 56 

Nerine pudica, 352 

Nests for egg-hatching, 281 

New England poultry doings, 361 

New Year’s hopes, 1 

New York Poultry Show, 57 

New Zealand, feathered emigrants, 
430; plants for, 205 

Night soil utilising, 464 

Nitrate of soda as a manure, 445 

Northampton Poultry Show, 77, 205; 
dyed Bantams at, 223 

Nothoscordum aureum, 272 

Nurserymen’s prices, 90 

Nut trees, pruning, 809 


Oaxwoop Hovss, 834 

Oats, ground, for poultry, 153, 172, 192 
Oleander stem bare, 92 

onion tigrinum, v. splendidum, 


Onion culture, 92, 407 

Oranges, leaves and flowers falling, 
168; scale on, 261; trees, mealy bug 
on, 875 ‘ 

Orchard, house cleaning, 168; fruit 
trees, 72, 91, 463, scale, on, 390; ma- 
nagement, 115, 220, 277; pots frozen, 
14; prospects and Communists, 379 

orarard trees, pruning newly-planted, 


Orchids for a conservatory, 5, 91 

Ormson’s mode of ventilating, 253 

Osier bed, forming, 109 

Otaheite Orange culture, 242 

Outrages on prize poultry, 73, 149, 187, 
285, 222, 245 

Oyster shells for Vine border, 358 


PRONIA WITTMANNIANA, 369 

Page, Mr. W. B., 805 

Paint, removing oid, 342 

Paisley Poultry Show, 38 

Eh Celene for, 874; seeds sow- 
ing, 

Pampas Grass protecting, 13 

Pansies, for spring flowering, 874; 
propagation, 389; sowing, 326 

Parallelogram, forming, 54 

Parent, influence of each, 812 

Paris, inside, 64; Jardin des Plantes, 


Parks, new Superintendents, 183 
eeeLL management, 114; moulting, 


Parsnips not forked, 108 

Partridges, rearing, 362, 414 

Passiflora quadrangularis, 193 

Paullinia thalictrifolia, 29 

Peaches—heavy crops, 418; out of 
doors, 463 ; falling, 308; forcing, 90; 
defective growth, 212; in the north, 
213; white spot in_peachery, 389; 
trees, heading maiden, 148: cover- 
ing for, 204: 1n orchard house dis- 
eased, 841: red spider on, 278: in- 
sect ov, 279: in pots failing, 291: 
pruning, 241; sulphate of iron for, 


PEacnEs—Continued. / 
842: leaves blistered, $43: falling, 
204: fruiting shoots, 294; Lord Pal- 
merston, 852 

Pears—in April, 275; core decayed, 
90: perverse, 159; not setting, 341; 
warming ripe, 14; trees, caterpillars 
on, 890: cutting down young, 389: 
insects on, 127: leaves blackened, 
$42, 889: pinching espalier, 389: 
planting, 186: scale on, 127, 242: 
summer pruning, 427; Autumn 
Joséphine, 29; Brockworth Park, 
29; Cassante du Comice, 30; Doy- 
enné d’Alencon versus Easter 
Beurré, 98 ;'Doyenné d’Alencon, 135 ; 
Doyenné @Hiver Nouveau, 135; 
Enfant Prodigue, 10; Fondante du 
Comice, 10; Gansel’s Seckle, 380; 
Maud Hogg, 80; Millot de Nancy, 
10; Olivier de Serres, 275; Passe 
Crasanne, 135 

Peas, in autumn, 462; early, 378; late, 
9; leaves for soup, 107; mildewed, 
295; northward, 9; raising early, 
157, 167,194, 211, 235, 240; for show, 
108; stalks and leaves yellow, 874 

Pea weevil, 290 

Peat, 242 

Pelargoniums—bedding, 82; double 
for bedding, 62; double-flowered, 
177,a8 bedders, 103; variegated for 
bedding, 148; planting in beds, 342; 
failing, 445; forcing, 157; leaves 
spotted, 295; losing colour, 221; 
leggy, 108; early-flowering show, 
299 ; list, 205; pinching, 127 ; select, 
327; stopping, 241; Tricolor and 
Bronze, 205; Tricolor cuttings, 428; 
Madame Vaucher weak, 358 

Penrith Poultry Show, 224 

Pentstemons, select, 13 

Perilla seed failing, 221 

Periwinkle, variegated, 409 

Petunias, seed failing, 221; select 
double, 18 

Phalenopsis bearing offsets, 91 

Pheasants not poultry, 155 

Philodendron Williamsii, 352 

Phoenix Park, Chief Secretary’s, 99 

Picea Pinsapo cones, 342 

Picotee. sowing, 260 

Pieris Brassice, 385 

Pigeons—action for lost, 861; clear 
eggs, 432, laying soft, 298; com- 
mencing keeping, 468; cramp, $14; 
fancier’s notes between Birming- 
ham and Smyrna, 76; in a garden, 
396; head turned, 298; injured, 132; 
losing feathers, 814; oil gland re- 
laxed, 298; portraits.298; race, 466 ; 
sick, 40, 362; varieties to keep, 876; 
vagaries, 414; water trough, 206; 
from Turkey, 206; unable to stand, 
226; White-eye, 414, 45); wing dis- 
ease, 396; Archangels, 208; Barbs 
not breeding, 468; young Carriers 
dying, 432; Carrier, 55; Black Car- 
rier, 40; prizes for Carriers, 112,130; 
exhibiting Carrier, 149 ; Courier, 412 3 
BlueDragoons’ rumps, 78 ; Dragoon, 
40; matching Dragoons, 192; Fan- 
tail, 58, 112, 180; the Jacobin, 311; 
Blue Jacobins, 814; Glasgow 
Pouters, 896; the Owl, 429; Runts, 
414; Egyptian Runts, 156 ; Tumblers, 
414; | Birmingham Tumblers, 57; 
Flying Tumblers, 16, 156, 188; muffed 
Tumblers, 76; Turbits, 208, 263 

Pine Apples, large-crowned, 91; seed- 
ling, 140 

Pinuses sowing, 446 

Pipes choked, 127 m 

Piping for hot water needed, 33 

Pit, construction, 374: converting to a 
house, 390, 427; flue-heating, 261; 
for Cucumbers and Melons, 186; 
making a cold, 242 

Plantago lanceolata variegated, 135 

Planting, 167; and potting deep, 24) 

Flants, anomalous, 67; not flowering, 

oi 

Pleroma culture, 881 

Plums, summer-pruning, 408; on leaf- 
less shoots, 464; trees, heading 
down, 168; roots diseased, 34 

Plymouth Poultry Show, 114 

Pogogyne Douglasii, 145 

Points, breeding for, 243 

Pointer diseased, 20 

Poinsettias, culture, 80; growing 
dwarf, 23; pulcherrima dwarf, 3 

Polands’ claws, 298; crests dirty, 95 

Polemonium czeruleum culture, 342 

Polyanthus, Giant, 320 

Pond, clearing water, aquatics for, 
gold fish in, 374; plant near, 309 

Poor-man’s Pipe, 278 

Poppy, the Prickly, 305 

Portable house, heating, 83 

Portable structures, 13 

Portsmouth Poultry Show, 128 

Postage stamps, payment with, 288 

Post, seed packages by, 165 

Potatoes— American, $8, 187; con- 
demned by the Horticultural So- 
ciety’s Committee, 69; disease, 80; 
top-dressing, 127; early, 871; earth- 
ing-up, 399, 407, 417, 433, 462; esti- 
mate of some, 173; forcing, 89; 
frosted, 55; growing early, 23; for 
light and heavy soils, 64; merits, 
80; plant, uses of, 303; planting, 3, 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. vii 


Porarors—Continued. 
83, 149; produce in 1869-70, 169; red 
and white exhibition, 25; for show, 
108; for next spring, 889: Flounder, 
261; Red-skinned Flourball, Presi- 
dent Lincoln, 261; Webb’s Imperial, 
213 

Pot-pourri, 468 

Pot saucers, 143 

Potting and repotting, 126 

Poultry—breeding on farms, 150, 170; 
in confined space, 40, 248, 264; cost 
of show, 248; as an employment, 
131; experiment, 262; farm, South 
American, 428; handling, 187; 
house, floor cleansing, 468, heating, 
20; keeping balance, 262; keeping 
under difficulties, 446; killed by a 
dog, 188; lore of 1870,44; marking, 
114; outrages on prize, 109; pro- 
tecting exhibited, 241; results, 93, 
109, 128, 169; show officials, are they 
liable for the debts? 187; shows, 
not advertised, 20, management, 
264, uses of, 262; trespassing, 208; 
what to keep, 390 

Powerscourt, 236, 321 2 

Primulas, after flowering, 127; cor- 
tusoides amcena, 303, 332; and its 
culture, 803, 364; culture of Chinese, 
230; japonica, 423 if 

Propagating house, heating, 55 

Propagation, various, 168 

Protecting garden crops, 195 

Protection, 12; glazed, 14 

Pruning fruit trees, 89 ; 

Pullets, feather-eating, 96; not seeing 
food, 314 

Pyrethrum, Golden, 316; culture, 268 ; 
planting Golden-feathered, 168 

Pyrus japonica on north wall, 409 


QUINCE STOCK PROPAGATION, 169 


RABBITS—AND APPLE TREES, 124; 
Club, United Kingdom, 170, 190, 207, 
245, prizes, 113; at Colchester and 
Portsmouth Shows, 59, 76; v. Coni- 
fers, 888; fancier’s troubles, 191; 
fancy declining? 181, 153; fleas on, 
414; and hares v. trees, 352; in- 
jured, 114; scab nosed, 432; at 
Stroud, 418, 449, 450; and trees, 44 

Railway delay, case of, 245 

Rats, 396; and mice, 269 

Red lead, v. mice, 46; lead on seeds, 
90, 261, 269, 292 

Red spider, avoiding, 109 (869 

Resemblances, vegetable protective, 

Rhipidopteris peltata, 889 

Rhododendrons, fine, 231; flower buds 
injured, 261; from seed, 827; dwart- 
fing, 342; shows, 399; sinense, 428 

Rhubarb forcing, 48 

Ring Doves in a greenhouse, 20 

Rivers, portrait of Mr,, 11, 48, 82, 189 

Robson, Mr. J., presentation to, 177 

Rockville, 143 

Romford Poultry Show, 447 

Roost-house floor, 78 

Roots, tap, 268 

Roses—ants on, 464; aphis on, 344; 
buds yellow, 427; caterpillars on, 
890; cuttings, 221; early blooming, 
90; exhibiting, 427; forcing, 54, 342; 
frosted, 241; fowls’ dung for, 108; 
fungus on leaves, 873 ; yellow fungus 
on, 445; grubs, 808; guano liquid 
for, 373; in India, 221; list, 190, 261; 
liquid manure for, 279; notes, 416; 
pigmy, 865; in pots, 91; for pots, 
308; prospects, 332; pruning, 250; 
picking off dead, 464; old and new, 
221; on own roots, 827; retrans- 
planting, 34; from seed, 108; tops of 
stocks, covering, 186; show, 459; for 
table decoration, 365; washing, 221; 
watering, 389; pruning Banksian, 
409; the two Devoniensis, 409; 
Felix Genero, 250; Manetti stocks, 
873; Marechal Niel, 808, 884, 424; 
Monplaisir, ec. 64; Tea, aspect 
for, 174, culture, 43, shoots blind, 241 

Roup, 191 eben Hs 

Rumex obtusifolia variegated, 158 


SALT FOR FOWLS, 468 t 

Salvia, splendens, repotting, 426; cut- 
tings, 464 

Sawdust uses, 258 _ 

Saxifraga longifolia, 200 

Scion, bud of to prefer, 327 

Sea Anemones, tenacious of life, 853 

Sea-kale, forcing, 48, 202, 276; un- 
blanched, 825 

Sea sand and fowls’ legs, 468 

Sedum acre aureum, 212 

Seedling trees fruiting, 434 

Seedlings, pricking-out, 203 

Seeds. red-leading, 125 

Selkirk Poultry Show, 112 

Sesia Tipuliformis, 256 ce ali 

Sewage, for gardens, 407; utilising, 55 

Shaded border, plants for, 54 

Shamrock, 241, 810 

Sheep’s paunch for fowls, 450 

Shrubbery borders, 221 

Shrubs, have they flowered? 294) 
evergreen and variegated, 310; re- 
moying, 168 


Sidney seed-sower, 278 

Silkies not Bantams, 330 

Silphium laciniatum, 25, 804 

Sitona lineata, 290 

Small-pox, plants for, 253 

Snails, destroying, 405 

Snow v. glass, 49 R 

Snowdrops after flowering, 54 

Sobralia macrantha var. albida, 870 

Solanum, capsicastrum seedlings, 103 
sowing, 168; ciliatum, 164 

Soot water for syringing, 342 

Sowing in summer, 407 

Spalding Poultry Show, 465 i 

Spanish—cock’s, comb drooping, 60, 
face, 114, excess of, 78, scaly, 361, 
ulcerated, 330, white, 873; wounded, 
226; Black, 60; fowls for exhibition, 
78; hen’s crop, 247 

Sparrows, puzzling the, 215 

Spasms in hens’ legs, 96 

Stakes for flowers, &c., 12 

Stangeria paradoxa, 48 : 

Statice Holfordi not flowering, 127 

Stephanotis floribunda, mealy bug 
on, 295; seeding, 341 

Stock, change of, 60 : 

Stocks, sowing Intermediate, 242 

Stove, slow combustion, 69,101; heat- 
ing by, 70 

Strawberries — bloomless, 343; cul- 
ture, 350, 382, 398, in pots, 268; de- 
ficient in bloom, 293; forcing, 176, 
186, 260, 320, 409, 846; layering for 
foreing, 416; torwarding, 416; in 
ground vinery, 14; in pots, 90, 356, 
for next season, 427; manure water 
for, 204; plant insect, 222; plants, 
packing, 464 ; prospects, 350, 364, 399, 
414; selecting runners, 409; this 
year, 817; Dr. Hogg, 382, 388; Sir 
Harry, 408 

Stroud Canary Show, 265; Poultry 
Show, 281, 295, 313, 828, 844, 393; 
Rabbit Show’s schedule, 208 

Subtropical, 341 

“Subtropical garden,” 441 

Sulphuring overmuch, 857 

Sundials, 464 

Suttons’ annual Root Show, 869 

Swans, food for, 96 


ae DECORATION PLANTS, 229, 232, 

Tacsonias, 343; mollissima planting, 
148; Van-Volxemi declining, 168 

Tandy, Mr., his garden, 865 

Tank heated, cover for, 55 

Tanners’ pit liquor, 428 

Tedworth conservatory, 278 

Temperature of the British Isles, 353 

Tender plants, prizes for, 6 

Theophrasta imperialis culture, 92 

Thinning fruit, 463 

Thirsk bird Show, 39, 313 

Thomson, Mr. W., dinner, &e., to, 402 ; 
testimonial, 258 

Thorne Poultry Show, 448 

Thrush and Redwing, 60 

Thyrsacanthus rutilans, culture, 278 
for December, 261 

Thujas, 408 

Tiger Lily, double, 145 

Tillandsia ionantha, 200 

Titmouse ravages, 13 

Torquay Poultry Show, 150 

poste Park Gardeners’ Association, 

Tradesmen and servants, 88 

Trapping, 292 

Tree-killing solutions, 284 

Trees, planting under, 72 

Trenching, penalties of rash, 284 

Triteleia uniflora culture, 809 

Tritoma seeds failing, 310 

Tropeolum Jarrattii and tricolorum 
culture, 54 

Try—I will, 420 

Tulips, bulbs, 291; National Scciety, 
52; short-stemmed, 147 

Tumour in pullet, 191 

Turf bare under trees, 108 

Turkeys, breeding, 114; cramming, 
846; for table, 60 

Turnip-tops forced, 107 


VARIEGATED NATIVE PLANTS, 212 

Variety class at shows, 15 

Vases before house, plants for, 326 

Vegetables, culture on poor soils, 397; 
substitutes for usual, 185 

Ventilation, 294 

Ventilating glazed wall, 204 

Verbenas, bed, 241; blighted, 279; 
cuttings, 102, 112, 203, failing, 142, 
181; disease, 210; shrivelling, 139; 
spotted, 175 

Veronica Chamedrys, 270 

Vineries—ground, 24; and plant 
house, $26; plants tor back wall, 
841; management of early, 174; 
planting, 91, 169, 204: span-roofed, 
£89 ; Vines for cool, 260; wiring, 147 

Vines—air giving, 326; bearing irre- 
galarly, 243; in house with bedding 
plants, 873; borders, 175, 343, un- 
covering, 308; breaking too early, 
858, irregularly, 408; as bushes, 14; 
canes vead, 826; complaints and 
remedies, 883; culture, 33, 221, 249, 
308, cutting newly-planted, 204; from 


viii JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


Vives—Continued. 

cuttings and eyes, 108; death 
unexplained, 124, 159; disbudding, 
148, 221; flowers, 274: not fruit 
ing, 390; grafting, 168, 279: new 
method of growing young, 61; in 
greenhouses, 168, 242, 408; inarch- 
ing, 92, 222, 295; insect on buds, 310; 
leaves with edges brown, 342, flag- 
ging, 295, unhealthy, 108, small, 358: 
mildewed, $26, 408: planting, 168, 
169, and pruning, 185: in pots, 14, 
109, 174, broken, $3; propagating, 
186; report on, 139; roots diseased, 
279; culture, 107; educating, 194; 
rootlets from branches, 874; scorch- 
ed, 342; selection, 127, 194; shoots 
destroyed, 890; prematurely start- 
ing, 204; spotted, 342, 858; stems 
brown, 243; on hardy stocks, 260, 
399; sulphuring, 242; tendrilled but 
fruitless, 133; tendrils bleeding, 
294; training newly-planted, 204. 
See also Grapes, 


Apple, Croft-en-Reich, or Galloway Pippin ........ccsseeveessenees 
PATITICTUIAMSEAE Oleeratatatercicteletsiniciers stolen slavaleratel<lsie\elaletalsislejelelaisysialateisia sieisreicteiaye 
Bee-hives—Economic depriving.........cseeeeeeeees 


a7 Unicomb... 


Boiler, Cannell’s Economising .............++5 


Bombyx Neustria....... 


CELCOPIS|SPUMATIA cleretsini-teiclele}s{otoleictelelel-Wicielsle ela lmislerelelsicle alsieleielsleleleietelaisie 
Careusy Pi sAntOuSacresicjelelalsisieieisleloleiciaiciele =\eleielsjs/clslslolare[sisiaivieeleieisiclersieineisie 


Cheimatobia brumata. 


GheloniaiC aya iyeicewi=le\cieiee siejeieisie ei els 
GridcerispASPATAg iterlalsislsteieriate atalstelols(clovelciaisiole’ojslaleleien i= sisicielsicieeisiaetelsios 
Cypripedium Dominianum ......cc cece cee e cess ce ceveseecsceeresees 


1p niveum......... 
Dargle, The....... 
Darlingtonia californica 
Dinner-table arrangement ..... 
Drills, garden 


Blower-Des, CILCUIAL. <5 ce cee oiecie cess ose oly sincicivicleionisieveeice cies L225 


Fountain, garden....: 
Fremontia californica .. 
Grafting, new mode of 


Greenhonseseirertetcsalcteisicincileleieinstelatrisielersrelsieisitiniaisiete(siabeteleetseisieistenc aU» 


[ July 18, 1871. 


Viola, californica, 868; cornuta alba, 
64; genus, improving, 98; lutea 
grandiflora and cornuta as bedders, 
835 

Violet-growers, advice to young, 25 

Violet, 185, 868; a new, 8; culture, 
350; kinds and culture, 283 ; Novem- 
ber blooming, 295; varieties, 391; 
white, 809; white, green-centred, 
205; Roman and Double Pink, 369 


WAGES, IN FUEL, &c., 91; insuficient, 
278 

Walks, 389; preserving from weeds, 
419; preventing weeds, 827 

Wallflowers, 328 

Wall, glazing, 356; tree oorders on 
bad subsoils, 46; fruit trees, prun- 
ing, $26; plants for a north, 186 

War on French gardeners, 8 

Warrington Show, extra cup, 206 

Water Cresses in a garden, 310 

Water, for boilera, 210; hard, 322; 
raising, 427; supply, 182; supply and 
storage, 384 


Wisbech Poultry Show, 110 _ 

Wistaria, sparrows attacking, 365; 
stem decaying, 374 

Wolverhampton Poultry Show, 110 

Wonders of an amateur, 143 

Woodbridge Poultry Show, 223, 226, 
878; Canary Show, 225; judging, 
244, 248 

Woodlice, $26; trapping, 302 

Worms in pots, 204 


Watering, 372, 426; and water-collect- 
ing, 443; with hot water, 32 

Waterproofing calico, 5£ 

Waverley Poultry Show, 169 

Weather, effects of, 393; the severe, 
87; predictions, 101, 142 

Weeding mulched border, 310 

Weed, what is, 123 

Weeds, culture of, 28£ 

Wellingtonia gigantea, 283 

Wharfedale Poultry Show, 312 

Whitefield Lodge, 99 

Whitehaven Poultry Show, 129 

Wierton, Polyanthus, &c., at, 355 

Window-box plants, 293 

Window-gardening, 70 

Winter — anomalies, 398;  conse- 
quences, 65; evergreen cuttings for, 
67; bed plants, 326; effects of, 134, 
216,350 ; in Lincolnshire, 100; Nor- 
folk, 101; flowering plants, 309; 
moth, 50; prognostications of the 
present, 85 

Ware woriass 189, 187, 399; death to, 


XIPHION JUNCEUM, 208 


YEW, PRUNING, 148 
Sorbie Grand Gala, 440; bird show, 
44 


ZEA JAPONICA CULTURE, 108 

zinc labels, writing on. 408 y 

ARN double white, 51; weevils on, 
0s 


WOODCUTS. 


Ground levelling and garden plotting, 7, 27, 83, 160, 214, 269, 354, 


NOIDA URADOSIL ss ece\sloialelcislelelsieleine(e\s}eloie elntstsisie(eteleiele!e/slele/cjolels]elele)sielelsicj<ia 


Pear, Autumn Joséphine ,. 


. PAGE. PAGE. 
236 | Pear, Cragssante du Comice....,.. ta cee sareciisisielieisiessieiasicene: #90) 
440 ALLAN PTOGIP TL Ome rctetcistels slevsieisielelstsiele ae 0) 
aoopnacqoLdooND! | dbf) 35 Fondante du Comice ................25 3 aut) 
5 154 sy Gansel’s Seckle........ . 80 
ata rofalatelatotss yore erste tio 1 339 LATE EL OFF oo ela clei sinistelslsleje.s}alele vic'cisieie (0's eieislo sie o vision hee eee 
BEAR GEBREGRCOBHOON CBO EHO SAE CS CHC oate by dy¥ Millotiday Nancy) \ssiicie/cieicicin/ctee'o cieisivlelse o'v'a)sleloieislsieiciercleterersl cee amet 
404 spf Olivier de) Serres Yeeielselele|e selctais..cjeisieie «.ecieislele sieimietehtenee . 255 
G8 PPigeon Mant ail yer ie l/elelsiejcie\sielaleie siaielslsie ofoic/n)o\eis\ele\e\ele\eieisialetefaterelets 5 ae 
50 sy dacobin - sit 
etololelevelaielotelelstelefsyer sveleielelsielelsicieelsietnny SO. AT ONT Lieiclere:eistajn/elelotejo‘olelotelslojevaiereielsicin.s eiclelsisieieteleieicieierleeistlet eee emo 
404 ng ANIL DEG revel o/-}ainturelsisjaleistoju/ats/se(s\0/a'e)s 9/a/a/s\aiaje(e\o(nie/a\sieleeis ene eee 
182 5 Water trough foricistciereisle(cisisicicis(s\e vee cjals\\eaicielern seine 
tesecccresscerccsenscasesssesees 839 | Powerscourt Waterfall ..............cecesecceessenccens 
322 | Rockville Fernery ....... 
460 | Sesia Tipuliformis .............. 
OBB Sitonalineatearctat\arelela cialats setctetelatetselcieisialsie(eiete 
282 | Sobralia macrantha albida ..............08 
123 | Solanum ciliatum .............cceeceeeues 
838 | Stove, slow combustion. 
441 | Vimery roof.........ccceeecsoee 
806 | Vines, eleven months from eyes....... 
291 59, PILOPDAGALINGIDY CY EB! e\eis\el\e'slelo,s/a1cle.sie/s'» siclalelsielelaleieeeterrie Meee LES 
Wall, glass-covered....... 362 
386, 423 | Wireworms.......... {0 
868))|) Zinnia, New Couble white. en sjeisn a siaieleciaes vesicles viene sieisissiciskiseiisintd) 
30 


January 5, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 1 


WEEKLY CALENDAR. 


Day | Day Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s | Clock | Day iBRARY 
ee roe JANUARY 5—11, 1871. ture near London. asiyears:| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | sets. Age. | peters cea a ETT 
: | | MEW YORK 
Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. | m. h.| m. h.| m Aeon Days. Tey SEB Svan A 
5) | | Da 41.4 | 27.3 | 344 16 8afS| 4af4| Oaf3 | 48af6 14 5) (85 5 BOTANICAL 
6 | F EPIPHANY. 41.1 | 28.6 | 34.8 14 7 . é i a | x u io ee . GARDEN 
Rees} 41.7 | 29.1 | 85.4 17 7 ILE rate 
8 | Sun | 1 Sunpay arrer EpIpHany. 41.0 | 80.1 | 85.5 14 e e i oA E 7 RB ui 6 vis 5 
9 | M 41.2 | 80.8 | 36.0 15 i 2 7 
10 Tu 42.0 | 30.3 | 86.1 18 5 8/10 4/17 '8]16 10 19 7 43) 10 
11 Ww 41.5 | 30.1 | 35.8 22, 5 8/12 4)32 91] 40 10 20 Syed 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 41.4°, and its night tempera- 
ture 29.5°. The greatest heat was 54°, on the 7th, 1845, and 9th, 1852; and the lowest cold 6°, on the 7th and 8th, 1861. The greatest fall of 


rain was 1.00 inch. 


H. KENT —whether Mr., or Mrs. or Miss I 
know not—you are responsible for my sitting 
down to write another New Year's paper, 
your kind words in the last number but one 
beckoned me to my chair, bade me get out 
the accustomed paper, and dip my pen into 
the ink, your genial expressions having 
warmed my heart; I therefore summon up 
memory, and write yet again, as there may 
be other A. H. Kents who dislike not a 
sketching pen, and who care, now and then at least, for 
something in addition to business details. I have put for 
title the words ‘‘ New Year’s Hopes;” and never were men 
more in need of hope than now. ‘“ Hope springs eternal in 
the human breast,’ and well that it does. A poet of our 
century picturing a time (go like the present), 


NEW YEAR'S HOPES. 


‘* When murder bares her arm, and rampant war 
Yokes the red dragons of her fiery car :” 


When all seem to forsake, when peace and mercy are 
banished, he adds— 


“Yet Hope the charmer lingers still behind.” 


So at the beginning of this year, in spite of the sad past, 
let us indulge in Hope—hope for more peaceful days, hope 
that the New Year may not see, as the old one did, the 
labours of the husbandman, the Vine-dresser, and horti- 
culturist trodden beneath the spoiling foot of the soldier. 
The greater number of our readers and writers delight 
in a garden ; a great, perhaps the greater proportion, are 
professionally engaged in horticulture. Amid their dis- 
couragements, and all callings have many, yet gardeners 
have many things which, borne in grateful recollection, 
are suited to comfort them, and make them content. 
They are for the most. part removed from the corrupting 
influences of large towns; the wages are more likely to be 
husbanded carefully, books to be studied, and the minds of 
young men better trained and disciplined, and the winter's 
evenings better employed. Are they young married men 
with families? A cottage in a garden, with garden and 
rural surroundings, is an innocent atmosphere in which to 
bring up children—healthier and purer for mind and soul. 
It is a blessed thing to be able to rear our young ones 
away from vicious scenes, and with the teachings of Nature 
before their eyes. I have known where a country-spent 
boyhood has been a, great means of preserving a pure man- 
hood. Well said Lord Derby at the last dinner of the 
Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution— A man might 


walk through a picture gallery, and see a great picture or | 


statue, and yet it would only create within him a feeling 
of admiration. But take the dullest lout out of the streets, 
or the most savage Arab that ever slept under a dry arch, 
put him amongst flowers and trees, these will do him good, 
for they are things which appeal to something in man that 
awakens within him a consciousness of his duty to his 
Creator.” 

Further, working gardeners with large families will soon 
have a chance for their children which they had not so 

No. 510.—Vou, XX., NEw SERIES. 


readily before—I mean the advantages of a State-watched- 
over and therefore an efficient education. This will in future 
years give boys a great advantage—grant to all boys the 
opportunity of an equally good education; subtract from 
their number the idle, the dull, and perhaps the sickly : 
then the remainder will have a capital opportunity of 
“going to the front,’ and doing well in the world. In 
Scotland, a country up to the present time far before us as 
regards elementary (not higher) education, this has often 
been seen. The father of Robert Burns was a gardener ; 
he sent his son to school at six years of age, it was all his 
good father could do for him, but what a result! Had the 
parents of Burns, for I must include the mother’s influence 
as well, been content to let their boy wander about with- 
out learning of any kind, one great name would have been 
blotted out of the roll of British literature. Therefore 
many parents with large families may take comfort, for if - 
they send and keep their children to school they may have 
sons, aye and daughters too, known in the future ; for “ to 
the front ” will go in years to come the educated, the clever, 
and the industrious. 

But with the thought of the increased brain-work in 
England comes also the thought of the increased need of 
wholesome recreation. England is further and further 
receding from the “ merrie England” of olden time, which 
meant to a great degree holiday-making—May-pole dancing, 
Christmas and Twelfth-night romping, and keeping all 
the many holidays of the old calendar. Now it is work- 
ing England, and he who provides a wholesome recreation 
for his fellows in this brain-exhausting age is a public 
benefactor. But nothing gives such a change and benefit 
to men, to those, especially “in populous cities pent,” as 
a glimpse of Nature. A recent writer in the Saturday 
Review says well—“ In the way of recreation one view of 
Hampstead Heath is worth whole volumes of tropical 
travel; and a linnet in a Surrey hedge gives a fresher 
idea of Nature’s charms than all the stuffed specimens in 
the zoological department of the British Museum.” But: 
no object to pursue daily and constantly equals horticul- 
ture for providing wholesome recreation, and, let me add, 
for promoting good temper. Wonderfully fascinating is it. 
Deny a garden; yet he who loves one will not be beaten. 
Thus we all remember “ Picciola, or the Prison Flower,” 
and he who watched it with intense delight as it un- 
folded itself from its first pair of leaves to its full flowering. 
Then there is Dickens's story of the boy, crippled and bed- 
ridden, who was devoted to his plant in the broken jug in 
the window ; yes, and what comfort it gave him. 

It is wholly wrong to ridicule one who has found some 
hobby, though we may not care for it. I have read of a 
very hardworking clergyman whose delight was to see and 
measure large trees. Every spare hour he could get away 
he was looking for a large tree ; he had trees on the brain. 
He dreamed of trees of vast girth and height. His yearly 
holiday was devoted to searching for large trees. In a 
happy time of longer leisure he crossed the Atlantic, sailed 
up the mighty Amazon, and sought and found vaster trees 
than before. He collected pictures of trees, books on trees, 
facts about trees, and I should fancy drew from trees, as 

No, 1162.—Von, XLY., OLD SERIES, 


2 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ January 5, 1871. 


well he might, many an illustration in his sermons. Was that 
a man to be laughed at? Certainly not. He had found a de- 
lightful, health-giving hobby ; how much better was he situated 
than the multitudes of travellers who, aimless and yawning, 
pass through Europe with Murray in their hand. Oh! bless- 
ings upon every hobby that takes a man face to face with 
Nature. I like to hear an artisan grow eloquent over the 
beauties of his pets, be they fowls, or pigeons, or canaries. I 
like to see the entomologist start off with his net for the 
country. 
‘© See to the shady grove he wings his way, 

And feels in hope the rapture of the day; 

Eager he looks: and soon to glad his eyes, 

From the sweet bow’rs by Nature formed, arise 

Bright troops of virgin moths and batterflies.” 
But to have full enjoyment you must take care and pains; as 
one of our writers well said in regard to poultry as a hobby, 
“to be fond of poultry is not merely to keep cocks and hens, 
but to multiply surface, to overcome difiiculties, to supply 
that which is wanting, to concentrate (this is the point) on a 
cock and five hens the interest enjoyed by those who have 
thousands of acres and hundreds of fowls.’ Perhaps viewed 
in this light is the special value of florists’ flowers—flowers 
which I humbly think are now too much neglected; but what 
happiness do they give! The man with an atom of backyard 
yet has a fund of enjoyment in it because of his Auricula 
stand, or his two dozen or so pots of Carnations or Picotees. 
One of my boyhood’s friends was a tailor, a careful, com- 
fortably-off man, who sought not his happiness at the public 
house, but in his little town garden, where he found room for 
prize Carnations and Gooseberries, fancy pigeons and bees. 

Then there is the time which will come, or has come to us, 
the time— —~ 

“ When life’s day draws near the gloamin.” 

When as Crabbe’s middle-aged hero said— 

** Trode or walked as I had done before, 
But now the bounding spirit was no more. 
I showed my stranger guest those hills sublime, 
But said, ‘ The view is poor, we need not climb.’ 
For home I felt a more decided taste, 
And must have all things in my order placed; 
In fact, I felt a languor stealing on: 
The active arm, the agile hand were gone. 
I loved my trees in order to dispose ; - 
I numbered Peaches, looked how Stocks arose.” 

And had Crabbe lived in these days, he might, perhaps, have 
added something of this sort— 

** For quiet pleasures I began to seek, 
Kept fancy pigeons, learned to play bézique.” 

A garden and home-bound pleasures have, we know, special 
charms for the retired and middle-aged man, and a happy 
thing it is when he takes to them. 

One caution or two as to hobbies. Always bear in mind 
that people have various tastes, and do not cram your own 
special hobby down everybody else’s throat. Then do not 
follow your hobby in order to stifle serious thoughts, nor 
love your pets better than your fellow Christians. All must 
be loved in order : the Creator first, then our fellow men, then 
the lesser, because soul-less, works of His creation. We should 
also cultivate a useful mode of applying observation. Bearing 
upon this, Addison in ‘‘The Spectator’? (Does any body 
read it now in these sensation-novel days?) says, ‘‘ My friend 
Sir Roger is very often merry with me upon my passing so 
much of my time among his poultry.” The Spectator was 
spending a month with the worthy knight at his country seat 
in Worcestershire, who complained, ‘' that his ducks and geese 
had more of his guest’s company than himself.” Addison 
replied, ‘‘I am infinitely delighted with those speculations of 
‘Nature which are to be made in a country life, and as my 
reading has lain very much among books of natural history, 
I cannot fail to recollect upon these occasions the several 
remarks which [I have met with in authors, and to compare 
them with what falls under my observation.” Now, this 
Journal does much in leading minds to the gardens, and to 
nature generally, and to the poultry yard especially, and so 
contributes, I believe, not a little to wholesome recreation. 
Among all longings none are so strong as the town man’s 
longings for the country. ‘‘I long,” said a Londoner to me, 
‘to lie on a summer day on my back on the grass and look up 
into a tree.” Even where the whole day is not spent in a 
town, yet if the day’s occupation be in-doors the same feeling 
for bringing nature, or a reminder of nature near, is not un- 
frequently seen. The shoemaker and the tailor, and others of 
like in-door occupation are, and always have been, among the 


most ardent bird-fanciers; the goldfinch in his cage bringing 
the Farze common and the healthy glow there found, before 
the man’s eyes and feelings, shut up though he be ina hot 
workshop. 

I had an instance to the point brought before me this Jast 
spring. I was spending the day in one of the most lovely 
spots in this county, amidst scenery bordering upon the bold 
and romantic. I had walked through the wild wood that 
covered a hill top, from either side of which was a noble view. 
Then descending, I wandered along the margin of a most me- 
andering trout stream that glittered in a more than spring 
sunshine. It was one of those rare and superb spring days, 
occurring rarely, when the weather is summer anticipated. 

“ The young lambs were bleating in the meadows, 
The young birds were chirping in their nests ; 
The young fawns were playing with the shadows; 
The young flowers were blowing toward the west.” 


Still I wandered on in the bright sunlight by the glittering 
stream, when I came upon an old, very old, paper mill, with its 
heaps upon heaps of rag bundles outside, the whole one blotch 
on fair nature, 2 proof how man’s nastiness can mar God’s 
beautiful earth. I almost cursed the thing for being there by 
the bright stream and the wild, yet, being the west of England, 
well-clothed landscape. Loathing I entered the old mill, and 
was soon among the dirt-coloured machinery, inside the dust- 
coloured mouldy walls, coarse shed-like walls, where all day 
long the wheels were droning and turning. Pinch-faced men 
in paper caps, old weasel-like withered men, were moving 
slowly here and there. Young men were there too, and women, 
and girls. Coarse paper in all stages of menufacture, from 
pulp to parcels ready for sale, was around me. All, wheels, 
budding, living creatures, all, exactly like a scene in the heart 
of a manufacturing town, and I could not believe that outside, 
just outside the cobweb-covered windows was a lovely scene in 
allits spring beauty. I sickened at the sight, when turning I 
saw on a rude partition of unpainted and worm-eaten boards a 
picture, a good engraving, of a Rose, with some pretty lines 
beneath it. How dearly must the one who placed that picture 
there have loved flowers; gathered flowers would soon have 
died in such an atmosphere. It was only a picture flower that 
would last. The picture cheered my eyes, and seemed to say 
there was something better in the world than rags, and pulp, 
and coarse mercantile paper; and though the wheels kept on 
droning and turning, and dinning my ears with their metallic 
noise, yet the Rose, and thoughts connected with it, in a mea- 
sure atoned for all. We are told that Dickens had always before 
his eyes in his study at Gadshill vases of flowers, and that he 
never worked happily unless in their presence. Flowers may 
be regarded so variously. They call up reading and memory in 
regard to them, as one says—‘ It is always pleasant, walking in 
a garden, to remember the native home of the floWers, and 
imagine them surrounded by their own scenery. It gives them 
a new interest and a fresh beauty. We see them growing; the 
dewy Auriculas among the moss and snow of the Lower Alps ; 
the Guernsey Lily in the Japanese meadow; the Ranunculus 
in the fields of Cyprus; the rich-dyed Pelargonium in the rank 
Kloof of the Caffre frontier ; the flaunting Dahlia in the plains 
of sunny Mexico; the burnished Eschscholtzia in the sands of 
golden California ; the gay yellow bladders of the Calceolaria in 
the forests of Chili. Think of them with these surroundings, 
and you will see how the flowers fit their own special countries. 
A Caffre beauty would twist a thick cluster of dark crimson 
Pelargonium in her black oily hair. The dashing Mexican 
horseman, all leather and lace, would stick a huge white Dahlia 
in the band of bis enormous sombrero. A Japanese lady would 
pace over the bamboo-bridge with a Guernsey Lily carried like 
asceptre in her hand. Justso it is with vegetables; they, too, 
have their history, their legends, and their poetry. It is not 
uninteresting to recall whence they came, and how they reached 
in slow procession their great parliament house in Covent 
Garden. Crusaders, merchants, pilgrims, and monks brought 
them to us from eastern hill and southern plain, from northern 
meadow and from western forests.” 

But now let me turn to ‘‘ our Journal,” a great promoter, I 
know, of happiness in many homes, where its advent is looked 
for with pleasure, as said to me one constant reader of every 
one of its pages—‘' I look for it as I used to look for a love- 
letter from the post.” I have met it this year in cottage, villa, 
and eyen in the precincts of a royal palace. Shows, I hope, 
will contain in fature a more varied collection of birds, as did 
the Portsmouth Show, of which the report opened thus—* Com- 
bined with poultry and Pigeons the Committee offered for the 


January 5, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 3 


first time liberal prizes for cage birds and rabbits, and thus 
(mark the ‘thus’) secured the attendance of a very large body 
of visitors.” The war in France has brought two things before 
us which it would be well to remember. First, we in Exgland, 
depending so much upon France for eggs, may soon be suffering 
by still greater dearness of eggs. We ought to be able to supply 
eggs for our home consumption. Every cottager living by a road- 
side could cheaply keep fowls; landlords should be less jealous 
of their doing so, and neighbours less tiffy. Small farmers 
could add largely to their income by keeping more fowls; but 
for idleness and ignorance poultry would be kept in thousands 
where now only tens and hundreds areseen. Then the French 
war has taught all readers of newspapers the value of Carrier 
pigeons. If I ventured in general company to speak of the 
wonderful homing properties of the Antwerp I was smiled at, 
and heard the words ‘electric telegraph.” Now it is all dif- 
ferent. Asin the siege of Constantinople a.p. 139, so in the 
siege of Paris 4.p. 1870, the Carrier is the only safe telegraph. 
The electric wires in war are at once destroyed ; if laid under- 
ground, as near Paris, they are found and dug up, or, worse for 
the besieged, ‘ tapped,” and their secrets known and revealed. 
Had the Parisians and I'rench generally been as keen pigeon- 
fanciers as their neighbours in Belgium and Holland, there 
would not have been, as now, @ scarcity in Paris of good and 
safe birds. Safe, for what hawk could catch a well-fed, well- 
trained Antwerp? I look, then, for poultry to be kept more 
generally, and homing Pigeons to be much more widely known. 
By the way, I would remark upon the great improvement in 
appearance of Antwerps as exhibition birds at the Orystal Palace 
Show. The three winning pens ‘‘of six working Antwerps in 
each,” were beautiful in feather and matched well. If beauty 
and usefulness be combined I am sure they will be kept very 
generally. 

I notice sometimes that odd questions are sent to our Editors. 
Now, to anticipate one and save them trouble. If any Pigeon- 
fancier is plagued with cats who make sad depredations on his 
birds, I will by all means recommend him for a sure and cer- 
tain cure to get a dog of the following kind, that is if he 
can. Mr. Pepys, in bis Diary, saith, September 11th, 1661. 
“To Dr. Williams, who did carry me into his garden where 
he hath abundance of Grapes; and he did show me how a dog 
that he hath do kill all the cats that come thither to kill his 
pigeons and do afterwards bury them, and doit with so much 
care that they shall be quite covered; that if the tip of the tail 
hangs out, he will take up the cat again and dig the hole deeper, 
which is yery strange; and he tells me that he do believe he 
hath killed above a hundred eats.” That is the breed of dog 
for us Pigeon-fanciers to keep. © 

But ’tis time I should conclude. To some this is the only 
weekly periodical where there is a large family and careful 
parents, and ‘‘our Journal’’ forms, therefore, the chief even- 
ing reading. I know that a kindly article lights up into cheeri- 
ness many a quiet group, in a neat cottage, in a garden. A 
worthy Gloucestershire gardener, who being a Welshman, and 
whose name not being Jones—he bore of course one of the 
other two Welsh names—told me, warmly grasping my hand, 
he read all aloud to his wife. A good wife that, taking thorough 
interest in her husband’s calling, as wives should. 3 

My New Year’s hopes are that this may be a happy new year. 
I hope the present war will cease and no other begin, and that 
the peaceful Eden-like labours of the garden will prosper. I 
hope there will be peace and plenty. I hope men will grow 
wiser, better, kinder, more loving, more brotherly and brother- 
like. Cultivate kindness—kind words, looks, and a kind 
present do wonders ; it need be but a little one and of trifling 
value, but it warms the heart. One more word, and that a 
Serious one. I have spoken of flowers being gathered from 
far-distant and different lands into our gardens; but there is 
another process of selection going on—the gathering of men 
into a better garden. May all who read these words be among 
those so selected, so gathered.—Winrsuire Rector, Hilltop 
Rectory, Wilts, New Year’s-eve, 1870. \ 


POTATO PLANTING. 


On looking over the papers Mr. Lewis hag written on this 
subject, I see he has not mentioned the way in which the 
Potato is planted in some parts (in Devonshire, for instance), 
as I suppose he wrote principally for amateurs and cottagers. 
I venture to add this plan, thinking it far supersedes those he 
noticed, although very similar to the one he mentioned for 


to be worked abreast, or they will trample the Potatoes that 
are in the furrow, but that they should be worked one before 
the other? What an immense saving there is in this way to 
that of drilling out the ground first, and then carting the ma- 
nure between the drills afterwards. One plough puts in one 
acre per day, and one man and a lad put in their quarter of an 
acre per day, and leave off at five o’clock. As, I believe this 
is not generally attended to, I will detail the simple way in 
which they do it. 

Each allotment is half an acre, and we will suppose that the 
quarter of an acre of ground has been turned-up during the 
winter. The cottagers on the estates of the Harl of Devon, 
and I hope on all other estates, are allowed to keep their pig— 
the very life of an allotment—so that with a few bundles of 
ferns, long grass from hedges and ditches, and the straw from 
the quarter of an acre of Barley, which each cottager is bound 
to grow every year as per agreement, he thereby, with all his 
gleanings, manages to prepare from four to six good loads of 
manure. The ground is planted alternately with Barley and 
Potatoes. The manure is thrown in heaps in the middle of 
his Potato ground a day or two before planting; he has been 
busy for a night or two preparing the seed by cutting and 
making each sort ready for the eventful day; and whether he 
puts them in himself or hires, the work is begun early the 
next morning. There is one thing he will surely not forget— 
the few coppers, or maybe a bit of silver, he has hoarded up 
in some snug corner ‘vor a drap o’ cider vor tatty planting.” 
The dung is spread evenly over the ground first, the Potatoes 
are placed in convenient lots, and now the work begins in 
earnest. : 

The line is stretched across at the lower end of the ground ; 
the man with his mattock digs out the furrow, the lad with 
his basket of seed Potatoes drops them about 10 inches apart ; 
the line is then shifted 22 inches off. The iad, with a good- 
sized iron-toothed rake, next rakes in the dung on the Potatoes, 
the man follows him, making another furrow to cover it, and 
the end being gained, he wheels round and makes another 
furrow for the next row; the boy following, drops the seed as 
before. The row finished, and the line shifted, the boy rakes 
in the dung, the man following covers it with the next furrow, 
and so on to the end. 

Thus it will be seen the man is always in his work, not 
haying to walk a foot without tending to diminish his day’s 
work, and this, too, without leaving a footmark behind him, 
and the soil is laid on the Potatoes in the lightest possible 
manner. The Potatoes all in, the paths are shovelled up, and 
all is left until the Potatoes are beginning to make their ap- 
pearance, when a rough rake is run over the whole to knock 
down clods and to kill all seedling weeds. All hoeing and 
earthing-up is done during the mornings and evenings by the 
cottager and his family, the allotment being within a few 
minutes’ walk of the village. 

It often happens that the cottager is short of garden room at 
home, and then he will drop a few Broad Beans in every three 
or four rows at planting-time, or scatter a pinch of Turnip 
seed after they are earthed-up, which seems not to interfere 
with the Potatoes. It is a pleasing sight to walk through these 
allotments on a fine evening, and see the many little happy 
groups at work with an earnestness that ought to shame the 
man spending his last farthing in the tap-room, or the land- 
owner who says, ‘‘ I could not think of taking away a field from 
my farmers to lay out in allotments.” The noble landlord 
and his late worthily-esteemed lady, whom I have named, have 
given prizes every year for the cleanest and best-kept allotment, 
and for the best piece of Barley, Potatoes, and Mangold Wurtzel, 
&c. The competition is very spirited, and produces the best 
results.—J. Taynor, Maesgwynne, South Wales. 


DWARF POINSETTIA PULCHERRIMA. 


Mr. Fisx in his ‘‘ Doings of the Last Week,” December 22nd, 
says—-‘ The Poinsettia can never look compact so as to have a 
fine head of crimson floral leaves.” As I read those lines I 
had 2 plant on the table before me, which I measured ; it 
stood 53 inches high from the pot, a 4-inch one, and the floral 
bract measured exactly 8 inches across. I then measured 
another in the conservatory, in a 6-inch pot, which had two 
floral bracts, one was 4 inches high and 7 inches across, the 
other 5 inches high and about 84 inches across. These were 
taken off the old plants and struck after July Ist, though I do 
not exactly remember the date, and were merely joints with 


field planting. Should he not have said, The horses ought not! eyes, as I cut the long shoots I took off the old plants into 


4 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 5, 1871. 


three or four cuttings according to the size, and I find the 
joints of the older wood make better plants than the points. 
They have been growing without any check in a very light 
house with plenty of moisture, and all that struck have flowered, 
and all, except one that pushed two eyes, are in 4-inch pots. 

LT intend to try experiments next summer by taking cuttings 
at different intervals, and pinching-back the earlier-struck 
ones, as I think if they are not overpotted, but kept growing 
in plenty of light, and with moisture enough so as not to let 
them lose any leaves, they may be kept very dwarf. The old 
plants (two in number), from which I took the cuttings, both 
pushed fresh blooming shoots, but were too tall and straggling 
to be ornamental. I do not pretend that the floral bracts of 
young plants treated in this way, are so fine as those on strong 
unchecked shoots on old plants, but they are more ornamental, 
and occupy but little space.—C. P. Pracu. 


SELECTIONS OF GRAPES.—No. 1. 


PropaBiy there is nothing so perplexing to the amateur and 
practical horticulturist as choosing from the numerous kinds of 
fruit trees named in catalogues those best suited to his re- 
quirements, All the varieties enumerated may be really first- 
rate for some particular want of the horticulturist, each may 
supply some need, or answer a particular purpose, but though 
it may suit one person, it may not suit another, because the 
means are different. One may have an unheated house, and 
the other’s house may not only be heated, but have the border 
inside, and not unfrequently it is furnished with chambers for 
hot-water pipes, so that the soil can have artificial warmth as 
well as the atmosphere. So varied, indeed, are the means or 
conditions of culture, that instead of looking at the long lists of 
varieties in bewilderment, I have learned to esteem them. Our 
nuzserymen are not slow in bringing into notice any new and 
good varieties of fruits; they cling to old and justly valued 
Kinds of proved excellence; at the same time they are not long 
in expunging from their lists what the popular voice says is 
superseded by other and better kinds, as regards quality, size, and 
productiveness. Judging from your correspondents’ column, 
some of your readers experience a difficulty when they have 
erected a vinery in regard to what kinds they should plant, in 
order that, with the means they have provided and can afford, it 
shall! give them in due season Grapes in perfection. On the 
varied conditions under which Grapes are grown in this country, 
I purpose at this time to make a few remarks, and my doing 
so will, I hope, elicit from others their experience. 

Ovur-poor Grapres.—History informs us that Vines were 
planted on more than one southern slope of this country, and 
Grapes grown which if not such as might be taken from the Vine 
and eaten, were good for making wine. Though I am no be- 
liever in the value of wine of whatever brand as a beverage, or 
for any purpose, though it may be of value medicinally, yet 
there are many at the present time who would, were it prac- 
ticable, grow, as did our ancestors, Grapes for making wine.- 
‘““UpwarDs AND Onwarps’’ has proyed that some little dis- 
tance north-west of London—namely, at Woodstock, in Oxford- 
shire, with the aid of walls, Grapes can be grown of a quality 
suitable for making wine little if at all inferior to many 
foreign vintages. There can, therefore, be no doubt as to the 
possibility of growing out of doors in this country, by the aid 
of a wall or other means, Grapes suitable for wine-making; 
but it remains, es far as I know, to be proved whether they can 
be grown in any part of the kingdom without some artificial 
aid beyond culture on southern slopes. I am in hopes that 
such may prove the fact; but so far as I have experience it 
must be in some warm spots in the far south, and there only. 

So far north as here (Yorkshire) Grapes from Vines against 
walls with south aspects, are when at their ripest so sharp in 
flavour that few can partake of them, but I have seen Grapes 
ripened against walls both in the north and west that could not 
be devoid of sugar, or the wasps would not have devoured them 
So greedily, and I have no doubt they would have made very 
good wine. Indeed, for eating they did not compare unfayour- 
ably with imported Grapes. From want of thinning, however, 
they were small in berry. and the shoots not being stopped 
sufficiently, nor due regard paid to the laterals sc as to con- 
centrate as much as possible the energies of the Vines on the 
bunches of fruit, these did not ripen so well as they other- 
wise might have done. Another disadvantage of Vines out of 
doors is their often being planted in soil wholly unsuitable— 
heavy or wet—so that they are late in starting into growth, 
and do not ripen the long sappy shoots which are produced in 


great profusion. Under favourable conditions of soil, a light 
and dry one, and against sunny warm walls, especially the 
walls of houses with projecting roofs, they may be grown to a 
considerable degree of perfection. I have known them grown 
successfully on the south wall of a cottage at Weston, in Shrop- 
shire, and also as far north as Acomb, York. The finest Grapes 
I have seen grown out of doors were at Oxton Hall, Tadcaster, 
by the aid of a flued wall, about twenty years ago; and at 
Parlington, Bryam Hall, and other places, good examples of 
out-door Grape-growing might at one time have been seen; 
but of late years glass has been so cheap that this mode of 
Grape culture has been neglected. 

A selection of Grapes for out-door culture is as follows :— 
Royal Muscadine, round berries, and rather large; this kind, 
as far as I have experience, is the best of all, ripening with the 
greatest certainty and perfection. Early White Malvasia; the 
berries are much smaller than the Royal Muscadine, and the 
Vine a great bearer. Early Malingre, round or slightly oval 
berries, small; it is a great bearer. White Romain, berries 
oval, small; great bearer. Grove End Sweetwater, berries 
round, medium-sized; good bearer. These are all white or 
amber-coloured when ripe. Of black or purple sorts, Black 
Cluster, berries roundish oblong, and smal!, and so the bunches 
also are. It is, however, the best of all for out of doors. Cam- 
bridge Botanic Garden, berries oval, rather large; bunches 
short; a great bearer. These two are the best black Grapes 
for walls. Ingram’s Prolific Muscat, berries oval, small. EHs- 
piran (Esperione), berries large, roundish; abundant beerer, and 
hardy, but not so hardy as the two first-named black kinds. 
These are all the kinds 1 advise for growing by the aid of walls, 
and those who can afford to cover the wall with glass would be 
acting wisely and well to do so, the kinds named being well- 
suited for a glass-covered wall in a cold climate, where by such 
an aid they may succeed as well as or better than they do 
against an open wall in a more favourable climate. 

Vines IN Unueatep Housres.—The houses may be of three 
kinds—viz., 1, Ground vineries ; 2, Orchard houses; 3, Lean- 
to houses, or a wall with a south aspect covered with glass. 

1. Ground Vineries.—Of these I have not sufficient expe- 
rience to warrant my giving a selection. I have no doubt of 
succeeding with them, but I have grave doubts of some kinds 
flourishing as they do in a house with a larger amount of en- 
closed air. Perhaps some of your correspondents will favour 
us with their experience, naming the kinds most suitable for 
ground vineries. 

2. Orchard Houses.—I am equally at fault with this kind of 
house as with ground vineries. By an orchard house I mean 
a house constructed of wood and glass, and detached from walls 
or other buildings. Of it, as regards Grape culture, I have 
mo experience. By reporting progress those who have expe- 
rience in this mode of culture would confer a benefit on myself 
and others. 

3. Lean-to Houses against Walls or Buildings with a South or 
South-west Aspect.—Narrow houses sufficient only for a path 
answer well, but there is no disputing the fact that large 
houses are the best; 18 to 20 feet I consider quite wide enough. 
I have seen and grown very good Grapes in houses but 12 feet 
wide. The chief considerations to be taken into account 
for the successful ripening of Grapes in cold houses are— 
1. To have the border considerably above the surrounding 
level, one half its depth above it under any circumstances, and 
entirely when the situation is low, and water inclined to lodge. 
2. To concrete the bottom of the border, both inside and out- 
side, with the needful incline for water to run to a point whence 
it can be carried off by a drain. 3. To have as much of the 
border inside as possible, though part outside is not bad, but, 
on the contrary, I believe beneficial. 4. To drain the korder 
well. 5. To make the border of fresh and not very rich com- 
post, open, and not likely to settle into a close soapy mass. 
6. To haye front and top ventilation to effect by air-giving a 
thorough chenge of air, as well as to prevent damp. 7. To 
husband the sun’s heat by early air-giving, and shutting-up 
whilst the sun has considerable power, always leaving on a 
little air to prevent the scorching of the leaves. 8: To employ 
no more wood in the construction of the house than is abso- 
lutely needed for stability, having the squares of glass of good 
size, and not being too sparing as regards its weight; 21-oz., 
glass is the lowest weight that ought to be used; 26-oz. and 
even 32-02. will not be too heavy. Avoid the best quality of 
glass; 3rds will be quite good enough. Lastly. If a span-roofed 
house be employed have it wide, not less than 20 feet, and 
haye the sides wood and glass, the light coming to within a 


January 5, 1871. ] 


foot of the border. Narrow span-roofed houses I have found 
neither so warm nor eyen-temperatured as those which are 
larger. 

A selection of Grapes for houses such as those above referred 
to may consist of the following:—Black Champion, berries 
roundish oval, good bunches; earlier than the Black Ham- 
burgh. Trentham Black, berries oval, large; good bearer. 
Black Hamburgh, berries oval, bunches and berries large. 
Frankenthal (Pope’s or Victoria Hamburgh), berries roundish 
oval, large; undoubtedly the most useful Grape in cultivation. 
The above are all Black Grapes of first-class excellence. Of 
the white or amber-coloured kinds I would recommend Buck- 
land Sweetwater, berries round, large; a great bearer. Foster’s 
White Seedling, berries roundish oval, of good size; this must 
supersede the Royal Muscadine. Chasselas Vibert, berries 
round, large. General della Marmora, berries round, large; a 
good bearer. Sarbelle Frontignan, berries round, small, but a 
good early free-bearing kind with the full Frontignan flavour. 
The foregoing are all first-class Grapes, having large berries 
and bunches, except the last, which is given to meet the taste 
of those requiring the Muscat flavour. White Frontignan I 
have found ripen fairly in a cold house, but to do so fully it 
requires a good heat, and then it is a first-rate Grape.— 
G. ABBEY. 


THE GLADIOLI OF THE PAST SEASON. 


Or these there were thirty-two, divided into various sections 
according to their price. The first class comprised Armide, La 
Candeur, Orphée, Pericles, Robert Fortune, and Rosa Bonheur ; 
the second Agathe, Delicatissima, Elizabeth, Horace, and Syl- 
phide; the third Adanson, Bijou, De Humboldt, Rosea Per- 
fecta, and Sultane; the fourth Lacépéde, Livingstone, and 
Rubis ; and the fifth Augéle, Anna, Canova, Cleopatra, Donna 
Maria, Hlegans, Hortense, Irma, Laure, Marthe, Picturata, 
Regina, and Spectabilis. As these are all seedlings of M. Sou- 
chet, it will at once strike anyone acquainted with what raising 
new varieties is, and the difficulty of obtaining good varieties, 
that the number is a great deal too many: and so in truth we 
have found. There are some even in the first class which will 
not long remain in select collections, while in the fifth class 
there is probably not one that will be grown. They are all 
more or less pretty, bui do not fulfil the requirements of those 
who regard quality and excellence of flower and spike as amongst 
the first requirements. It is ever thus with raisers. Nor are 
they alone to blame. The craving of the public for novelties 
is such that they will devour anything; and hence raisers are 
tempted t» select irom their seedlings flowers that they would 
have otherwise consigned to the rubbish heap, or, as in the 
case of the Gladiolus, thrown into mixtures. The following 
judgment on them is the result of observations on my own 
bulbs, supplemented with, in a few instances, notes taken at 
the Royal Horticultural Society’s Special Show, and the Metro- 
politan Florists’ Society’s Show at the Crystal Palace. 

Armide.—Large and good-shaped flowers ; of good habit. Tho 
substance of the petals is such that it remains some time in 
bloom. Colour, white tinged with rose, and flamed and blotched 
with bright crimson. It seems to be an early-flowering variety 
like Shakespere; at least my bulbs of it had flowered out before 
August 15th. 

La Candeur.—I cannot understand why this should have 
been placed in the first series; as a white it is inferior to 
Madame Desportes, while the petals are pointed and the spike 
by no means good. 

Orphée.—This I regard as about the best variety of the year. 
It has along noble-looking spike, a blush white ground strongly 
flamed with bright carmine, and is altogether a very fine flower. 
A capital constitution, and prolific in spawning. 

Pericles.—This bloomed very late with me. It is another of 
the light rosy ground flowers, margined and striped with rosy 
purple, with pure white blotches. My impression of it is that 
it will not hold its ground. 

Robert Fortune.—A very long spike ; cerise, largely margined 
and blotched with dark crimson, violet throat. The petals have 
a line of pure white in their centre. A very fine flower. 

Rosa Bonhewr.—Very long spike; the flowers large, white; 
fine large purple blotches. The top petal has the habit of 
lapping over backwards, which somewhat detracts from its 
merits; but I believe, with all that, that it will make a valuable 
variety. 

Agathe.—Large flowers, and a good spike flamed with rose 
and yellowish blotches, carmine margin. This, too, I believe 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 5 


ee ee ed 


j to be @ good variety, although some have dissented from my 


view of it. re that 

Delicatissima.—I was greatly pleased with this flower. It is 
of a peculiar shade of colour—white, slightly suffused with lilac, 
while the lower petals are white. A very distinct sort. 

Elizabeth.—Long spike; large flowers, deep rose, strongly 
flamed with purple; large purple-carmine blotches with white 
stripes. A fine variety, and at times very brilliant. 

Horace.—A good scarlet, with white lines in the centre of 
each petal; brilliant in colour, and f think likely to be valuable. 

Sylphide.—White ground, slightly flamed with carmine. 
Although the spike is good the petals are pointed, and I do not 
think it can be regarded as a good exhibition variety. 

Adanson.—Large and well-opened flower of a peculiar colour, 
somewhat in the style of Anais, and very desirable for the con- 
trast of colour. It would do well for the front row of an exhi- 
bition stand. 

Bijou did not bloom with me (cerise orange), but I heard 
it but poorly spoken of by those who had bloomed it. 

De Humboldt.—Large, bright carmine, flamed and margined 
with carmine ; crimson blotches on white ground. i 

Rosea Perfecta.k—A very pretty variety, rose tinted with 
violet ; all the petals with a white line in them. 

Sultane.—Bright rose purple blotches, not first-rate. 

Lacépede.—I did not bloom this, but Mr. Kelway (no mean 
judge) thinks well of it. Rosy violet, and striped with lilac. 

Livingstone.—Small, but exceedingly pretty ; bright violet 
cerise with a sort of metallic reflection. Very good for the first 
row of a bed. 

Rubis.—Long spike and large flower, blotched carmine on & 
white ground. All the petals with a white line. 

Of the other flowers I know nothing, but I fancy from the 
estimate placed on them as to price that I have no great loss. 
It will thus be seen that I regard Orphéo as the premier flower 
of the season; that I have a good opinion of Robert Fortune, 
Rosa Bonheur, Armide, Agathe, Delicatissima, Horace, and 
Rosea Perfecta. My estimate may be wrong, but I question if 
it will be very far out. Our hopes of getting the new Gladi- 
oluses of 1870 are becoming fainter every day. Oh! what a 
terrible comment on the message of ‘“ peace and goodwill” is 
that cruel devastating war.—D., Deal. 


ORCHIDS FOR A CONSERVATORY. 


I sHanu be very much obliged by your stating the names of a 
few Orchids that could be successfully grown in pots in a con- 
servatory, where the temperature ranges from 46° to 55° day 
and night. I have now only one Orchid, Dendrobium nobile, 
which last year flowered beautifully, and I should be very glad 
to add a few others that a similar treatment would suit.— 
Srema, 


[The following would succeed in your conservatory :—Cypri- 
pedium insigne, Odontoglossum grande, Odontoglossum Alex- 
andre, Lycaste Skinneri, Lycaste Harrisonix, Epidendrum 
vitellinum, Zygopetalum Mackayi, Oncidium bifolium, Lelia 
majalis, Lelia albida, Barkeria Skinneri, and Barkeria spec- 
tabilis. } 


FRUIT TREES FOR THE NORTH. 


Tue result of my continued experience in fruit-growing in 
these parts may be interesting and of importance to those of 
your readers who contemplate planting new and improved 
varieties of fruit trees. It is a very fatal mistake to be guided 
entirely by ‘‘ descriptive catalogues ”’ of fruit trees which refer 
only to the climate of the south of England; but those sub- 
scribers who reside in the north of England, or in Scotland, 
may presume that varieties which succeed in this latitude will 
also prove successful with them. It is not uncommon to find 
a gardener occupying his attention and a valuable space on his 
garden wall in an abortive attempt to grow Chaumontel Pears, 
or some other variety of fruit equally unsuited to the climate ; 
and it is to guard against such a tantalising proceeding, as well 
as to encourage the growth of the many new hardy and deli- 
cious varieties of fruit that have lately been brought into eul- 
tivation, that I venture to record the result of my experience. 
Some of the finest fruits ripen in great perfection with us. 
You must excuse me reminding you that for Marie Louise and 
nine other varieties of dessert Pears, my predecessor in this 
garden was, at Chiswick, awarded a Banksian medal. 

About twenty-five years ago there were upwards of ninety 


6 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ January 5, 1871. 


varieties of Pears in this collection. These have been gradually 
reduced, by removing those not well adapted to the climate, to 
nearly one-third of that number, even while including some 
of the best varieties lately added. By a careful selection of 
these for each season an abundant dessert muy be procured for 
almost the whole year round. I shall, therefore, for the benefit 
of amateurs or the uninitiated, give the seasons at which each 
variety is fit for use in the following list. 

For gardens that are not too dry for dwarf or Quince-rooted 
Pear trees, and for Apples on the Paradise stock, I would re- 
commend these; they occupy half the space, come immediately 
into bearing, and the fruit will be larger and earlier than on 
trees of a different description. 


LIST OF FRUIT TREES ADAPTED FOR CULTURE AT ELGIN. 
PEARS FOR THE WALL, PEARS FOR STANDARDS. 


Doyenné d’Eté, or ) July and Doyenné @Eté. August. 


Citron des Carmesf August. Williams’s Bon Chrétien. Sept. 


Jargonelle. August and September, | Beurré d’Amanlis Panaché. Oct. 
Summer Beurré d’Aremberg. Oct. | Autumn Bergamot. October. 
Sinclair. October. Beurré Superfin. November. 
Beurré Superfin. Begin. of Noy. Aston Town. November. 

Marie Louise. November. Muirfowl’s Egg. November. 


Beurré d’Aremberg. Dec.and Jan. 


Doyenné du Comice. December. 
Forelle. January. 


Hacon’s Incomparable. December. 


Winter Nelis. January. Doyenné Defais. January. 
Joséphine de Malines. February. Beurré de Rance. March. 
Easter Beurré. March. Beurré Giffard. September. 
Bergamoite Esperen. March. 

Beurré de Rance. April. PLUMS FOR THE WALL. 


Fortunée. May and June. Rivers’s Early Favourite. July. 
Bryanston Gage. August. 
Reine Claude de Bavay. Sept. 
f Coe’s Golden Drop. October. 
The following also succeed :— | Blue Impératrice. October. 


Jefferson. September. 
PLUMS FOR STANDARDS. 


2 Belgian Purple. 
Beurré Bosc. Denniston’s Superb. 
Passe Colmar. Lawson’s Golden Gage. 
The following dessert Apples have lately come into bearing, 
on Paradise stocks, and have been much appreciated :— 


DESSERT APPLES ON PARADISE STOCKS. 


Trish Peach. August. Ribston Pippin. January. 
Kerry Pippin. September. Melon Apple. January. 


Van Mons Léon le Clerc. 
Thompson’s, 
Brown Beurré. 


Margil. October. Screveton Golden Pippin. Feb. 
Pitmaston Pine Apple. October. Duke of Devonshire. March. 
Cox’s Orange Pippin. November. Lodgemore Nonpareil. April. 
Blenheim Orange. Noy. and Dec. | Reinette du Canada. May. 


Sam Young. December. Allen’s Everlasting. June. 

All sorts of large kitchen Apples bear abundantly.—J. 
McCuxtocs, Gardener, Duffus, near Elgin, N.B. 

P.S.—For the present 1 withhold any report upon Peaches, 
Apricots, Nectarines, or Cherries, all of which we grow suc- 
cessfully. 

[You will oblige us by sending your other notes. 
all records of the results of practice.—Ebs. | 


We covet 


EARLY-FLOWERING PERSIAN 
SEEDLINGS. 


As you have invited your readers to detail their mode of 
growing the Persian Cyclamen so as to flower early, I have 
been induced to give my experience relative thereto. Having 
procured a packet of seed early in the spring of the present 
year, and haying made up in readiness a hotbed of fermenting 
materials, I sowed the seed on March 8th, and kept the young 
plants growing in their seed pan until the middle of April, 
when I had them potted off singly in thumb pots. I plunged 
them in the same frame as before, and towards the end of May 
I gave them a shift into pa pots. The compost I used in 
potting was a mixture of peat soil, a little loam, leaf mould, 
and cow dung. They were forthwith taken to the stove, placed 
on a shelf near the glass, and always kept pretty moist, being 
well watered about once a-week with weak liquid manure made 
from pigeon dung. They grew remarkably fast—so much so, 
that from their size I thought I would require to give them a 
larger shift; however, I did not do this, thinking that they 
would flower earlier if left in the same pots than they were 
likely to do had they been shifted. To my delight and aston- 
ishment I observed the first flowers showing in the first week 
of September, and they came generally into flower by the end 
of October.—Huau Rosn, The Gardens, Grangemuir. 


CYCLAMEN 


I sowrp a packet of Cyclamen persicum seed on March 3rd, 
1870, and some of the earlier plants bloomed in October. I 
have now corms about 2 inches in diameter with many flowers 


fully out, and with from twenty to thirty more buds to come 
out. Of course these are the most forward and best amongst 
the seedlings. The seeds were sown in pans in a forcing pit. 
I pricked out the seedlings as soon as they had two leaves, 
and constantly repotted them, some being now in 36-pots. As 
soon us the heat seemed to draw them they were moved into 4 
cooler place, and some have been put back for u week or so into 
the forcing pit to bring on the flowers. I cannot quite decide 
whether the corms do best covered with soil or entirely raised 
above it. 

The seedlings had no special soil, excepting a good allowance 
of silver sand and plenty of drainage. The great point is that 
they have never been forgotten fora day. Some of my corms 
showed bloom when very small.—A Lapy AmaTrur. 


AutHoucH we have not plants like Mr. Clarke’s ‘fit for 
exhibition,” we have a few dozen plants in 5-inch pots, mary 
of them in bloom, and all showing abundance of flower buds, 
from seed sown at the beginning of last March. The corms 
are from 1 to 1} inch in diameter, each supporting erect about 
thirty finely variegated leaves varying from 2 to 4 inches across. 

The seed was sown during the first week of March in small 
seed pans, well drained, and filled to within an inch of the top 
with a mixture of loam and leaf mould, with a little silver sand ; 
the soil patted down to keep the seed at the desired depth, and 
watered through a fine rose; then the seeds were sown as quickly 
as possible, and finally covered with about an eighth of aninch 
of silver sand. If sowing is performed quickly the moisture 
will penetrate through the sand and render another watering 
(which is very liable to wash the seed bare) unnecessary. 

The pans were then placed in the stove with a pane of glass 
over them, and a piece of white paper laid loosely over the 
glass for shading. They were frequently examined, and when 
found dry were gently dipped in the tank, so that sufficient 
water should flow over the rim to moisten the whole surface. 

The glass was gradually raised as the seedlings touched it, 
and when they had formed two leaves they were carefully 
pricked off 3 inches apart in boxes drained and filled with the 
following compost—dried cow dung two parts, leaf mould one 
part, turfy loam one part, and a little silver sand. The cow 
dung is collected from a pasture after it has been well baked in 
the sun. Itis a good plan after it has been sifted to water it 
with boiling water, which kills a great number of vermin liable 
to be injurious to the plants. The loam is used quite dry, and 
rubbed through a half-inch sieve, 

The boxes were next placed in a low span-roofed house, where 
Camellias and other plants were making their growth. The 
young plants were allowed to remain in the boxes for about 
two months, when they were lifted with balls and lightly potted 
in 60-sized pots, with the same compost, which I may here 
mention is used with good results for allour Cyclamens. They 
were then plunged in bottom heat in the same house, and re- 
potted, as the roots reached the sides of the pots, in 4-inch, 
and finally in 5-inch pots, always returning them to their 
quarters in the bottom heat as quickly as possible.-—J. Brarru- 
waltE, The Gardens, Verulam. 


PRIZES FOR TENDER PLANTS. 

WE have a village show, a very healthy baby two years old, 
and growing fast; we want to offer £10 for six stove plants, 
open to the world if we can get any competition. Our idea is 
to have an annual £10 prize—viz., £5, £3, and £2 for first, 
second, and third prizes for a varying article. This year we 
say six stove plants; but some suggested it should be for stove 
and greenhouse, others think that the six should he stove only, 
not mixed with greenhouse plants—they might come in their 
turn in future years. How say you? 

Is the £10 better divided into three prizes or given all in 
one? We have three good growers near here, buf we must 
induce strangers to compete. How can we best do so?—C, B. 
Exuison, Bracebridge, Lincoln. 

[It is quite certain that you will do wisely to divide the £10 
into three prizes as you propose, and we recommend them to be 
offered for ‘‘ Six stove and greenhouse plants. N.B.—Hither 
six stove or six greenhouse plants, or a combination, not more 
than six altogether, of stove and greenhouse plants, may be 
exhibited in this class.”—Eps, ] 


Intense Coup.—It may be interesting to some to know how 
we fare at Prestwich with the frost. Commencing with Decem- 


January 5, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 4 


her 20th, the thermometer registered 8° of frost; 21st, 10°; 
220d, 20°; 23rd, 24°; 24th, 28°; 25th, 26°; 26th, 18°; 27th, 18°; 
28th, 14°; 29th, 12°; 30th, 17°; 3let, 25°. The readings are 
taken from a registering thermometer every morning at 8 o’clock. 


It faces the north, and is 4 feet above the ground. The rime 
is truly splendid, especially on the Pinuses, Araucarias, and 
Holly. The Rhododendrons and Aucubas look very drooping. 
—SrerHen CastLe, Bent Hill Gardens, Prestwich, Manchester. 


GROUND LEVELLING AND PRACTICAL GARDEN PLOTTING.—No. 10. 
DRAWING PLANS. 


Fig. 33 consists of eight hexagonal beds, and is drawn and 
txansferred to the ground in the following manner :—Draw 
parallelogram ABCD and 
the diameter lines EF and 
cu. Draw lines 12 and D 
8 4, being half the dis- 
tance between AH and HB. 
Where line 1 2 crosses 
line EF is centre a; from 
eentre a, with radius a i, 
draw circle i. Where line 
3 4 crosses line E Fis cen- 
tre b; from centre ) draw 
a cirele with the same ra- 
diusasai. Find the dis- 
tance from centre o (the 
point is where the two 
diameter lines cut each 
ether) to centres a and b, 
mark the same distance 
on each side of centre o 
on line GH, as points c 
and d, and with the same 
radius asa 7% draw a cir- 
cle from centres c and d. 
With cand d as centres 
find points f g and e h, 
which is done in the fol- 
lowing manner: — With 7, 


On 
R 


inserting astake at each point. Find half the distance between 
stakes A and H, and insert a peg as at point 1. Find half the 
distance between stakes H 
and B, and insert a peg as 
at point 3; find the cor- 
responding points on line 
CD, as points 2 and4. Lay 
lines joining pegs 1 2 and 
34; where line 1 2 crosses 
line EY insert a peg as at 
centre a. With a string 
6 feet long trace circle i, as 
shown by radius ai; where 
line 5 4 crosses line E F 
insert a peg, as at centre 
b. From the peg at centre 
b, with the same length 
of string as a i, trace a 
circle from peg b. From 
centre o measure 10 feet 
4 inches on the diameter 
line towards a, and insert 
a peg as at contre c. Cen- 
tres a and ¢ are equal 
distances from centre o. 
From centre c trace the 
circle with the same radius 
as a i, with ¢ as centre. 
With radius c a ore b 


4 Cc 


radius ca draw an arc as) 
infonline 12; where the 

are cuts line 1 2 is centre 

y, as shown : also draw an 

are as in g on line 3 4; 

where the ares cut the line 

is centre g; with radius 

d a find centres ¢e and h in 

the same manner, then 

draw the circles with the_ 
same radius asai. Apply 
the radius six times to the 

circumference, as chord 
rs, and it will form the 
hexagon. 

To trace it on the 
ground, the base line AB 
is 41 feet 4 inches long. 
Insert stakes in points a 
and sp; from Bb to oc is 
62 feet; insert a stake at 
point c. With a and c 
as centres find point p, and 
thereinsert astake. Lay 
lines joining points a Bz, 
BC, CD, DA, then lay the 
diameter lines nF and@u, 


Fig. 88. Scale 12 feet to the inch. 


trace an are cutting line 
1 2, as shown in f, also 
trace an are cutting line 
3 4, as shown in g; where 
the ares cut the lines are 
centres f and g. Insert a 
peg at each point, and 
with the same radius as 
ai trace the circles. Cen- 
tres ¢, d, and h are found 
in the same manner. 

To form the hexagon 
inside the circle, apply 
radius ai six times to the 
circumference, as shown 
in? s; insert a peg at each 
point, as at points 7 s. 
When the six sides are 
found lay a line from peg 
to peg and cut out the 
beds. Proceed in the 
same manner with the 
other beds until the design 

‘2 is complete.—M. O’Don- 
NELL, Gardener to EH. 
Leeming, Esq., Spring 
Grove, Richmond. 


CHRYSANTHEMUM CULTURE. 


I can assure Mr. H. Benham (see vol. xix., page 472), I have 
no wish to mislead him, nor anyone, in my notes on Chrysan- 
themums ; and when I said, Give no manure water till the buds 
are formed, I merely gave my mode of treatment for the last 
three years. I am perfectly aware I differ on this, as on several 
other subjects, from many practical gardeners, still as long as 1 
eonfine my remarks to what my own practice has taught me, 
no harm can be done. 

Reverting to the subject of liquid manure for the Chrysanthe- 
mum, I say pot the plants in good rich compost, withholding 
manure water till the flower buds are well set, then give it in 
moderation. I might possibly be tempted to use it earlier had 
I not the materiel suitable for their growth. My own opinion 


of manure water is, that it has a tendency to create an undue 
circulation of the sap, thus causing the plants to make more 
wood than ig necessary, and not giving any addition in size to 
the flowers, whilst by giving it as I do when the buds need 
additional stimulus, it improves them very much. I am per- 
fectly aware that this is quite at variance with the practice of 
most good growers, but having tried theirs under various cir- 
cumstances, I prefer my own system. Plunging is and may 
be very well for those who have not the time nor means to 
attend properly to the watering, for, as I said before, nothing 
suffers more than the Chrysanthemum from being short of 
water. I consider it better to be without them if you neglect 
them once. I am perfectly aware of the extra water they 


8 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 5, 1871. 


require, but where there is a regular system of watering, and 
one man for his own work, no evil results can accrue to them 
owing to their not being plunged. In my own case I prefer 
my plants not to be plunged, as less skill is then required to 
water them. Plunged plants have this disadvantage, that they 
require far greater attention in watering. I have seen plants 
which have died simply through overwatering. Of course, a 
keen practical man can tell at a glance the plants which require 
watering, but to an inexperienced hand the difficulty is great. 
The Chrysanthemum is naturally a gross feeder and likes 
plenty of water, still it is possible to overdo the watering. I 
this year had an argument with a gentleman respecting plung- 
ing plants out of doors, and the gist of my argument was, that 
I considered the water that passed from the plants, especially 
if manure water is given, had a tendency to become sour, and 
unless the bed or whatever they were plunged in was well 
drained, the plants would in a manner absorb their own refuse. 
My idea may be wrong, still it is so. 

I have for three years given the bulk of my Chrysanthe- 
mums their last shift the first week in August, and, of course, 
I should not do go, it being as convenient for me to pot ia July 
as August, if I found no benefit from it. The Pompons and a 
few early kinds are potted in the first or second week of July, 
but the plants I have now in flower were potted in August. I 
have a very distinct recollection, in the year 1864, I being then 
in Cheshire, of potting in the middle of August a few Chry- 
santhemums which had been overlooked at the early potting, 
and notwithstanding the prediction of the head gardener as to 
their failure, they proved the best of the season. A consider- 
able amount of care and thought will be required as to what 
plants are best suited for late potting, so as not to overpot 
them ; for my own part I would not repot a plant in August 
unless it was in good condition and likely to be benefited by 
the shift. In potting in the first week of August the roots 
should be at the sides of the pot at the end of the same month, 
thus leaving the whole of September and two weeks of October 
for the plants to make and perfect their flower buds. 

I am open to conviction, and no one can read the Journal 
with more interest than I do, though I find much to differ from ; 
and in writing these short notes and in all others, I give to the 
public a few of my practical observations, trusting they will be 
received in good faith, even though they do not coincide with 
the general statement of things.—SrrrHen CastLe, Bent-Hill 
Gardens, Prestwich. 

P.S.—Since writing the aboye I have been referred by a 
friend to an excellent article in the Journal of August 19th, 
1869, written by Mr. R. Fleming, gerdener to R. Houghton, Esq., 
Sandheys, Waterloo, Liverpool, in which, though his treat- 
ment differs from mine in many respects, still on the subject 
of manure water, he says that the time to apply liquid manure 
is when the plant shows the buds. In this, of course, I per- 
fectly agree. 


WAR ON FRENCH GARDENERS. 


A uprrer which has been received by field post from a young 
German gardener with the army round Paris, dated 4th of December, 
will be read with interest. The letter runs as follows :— 

“* Alas, that I should have such sad things to tell you of the gardens! 
they are completely deserted, and all the fine collections are left to 
ruin. I speak especially of the establishment of Messrs. Croux, 
Durand, & Son, at Bagneux. Croux’s establishment is occupied by 
the Bavarian artillery ; in the large Palm house the horses are put, 
which eat the tall plants like fodder. The splendid Conifers (Welling- 
tonias, Picea Pinsapo, Deodar, &ec.), which lately were there in large 
numbers in their greatest beauty, are ordered to be made into a hedge 
in order to block out the view from the batteries of the French forts. 

“ But still worse is the condition of Croux’s establishment at 
Aulnay. In the Jardin pour études Pomologiques the splendid trained 
trees are quite destroyed from the breaking of the wires which sup- 
ported them, and now about two thousand sheep and from eighty to 
a hundred cows are in the gardens, and of course eat up everything. 

““ Not less sad is it to see the state of the gardens of Durand fils, near 
Clamart. The greenhouses are mostly destroyed by thie thick shower 
of bullets, and the plants in them withered or frozen. The day before 
yesterday these were exposed to—6° R. [184° Fahr.], and yesterday 
covered with snow.” 

[The above extract from a Gorman newspaper has been sent to us 
by 2 correspondent at Hamburg. | 


New Viorer.—A correspondent in Honolulu, after making a 
botanical tour in the Kaala range, says, ‘‘ Botanising on this 
island is not without considerable danger. Only imagine de- 
scending a steep decline of 70°, which had to be done chiefly 


by swinging from the roots of one tree tc the branches of the 
next one below, and that at a height of 2000 feet above the 
deep gorge beneath our feet.” Nature, however, seems in all 
cases to provide a reward for her admirers who voluntarily 
expose themselves to such dangers for the purpose of bringing 
to the eye of science her numerous hidden beauties, for the 
writer continues to say, he was not a little surprised by the 
discovery of a Violet with splendid snow-white waxy flowers, 
some of which were almost half an inch in diameter, and ex- 
quisitely perfumed. He considers it probably a variety of 
Viola chamissoniana, which he found in its ordinary state lower 
down in the forest; but the pure white flowers stretching out 
their long peduncles above the surrounding low undergrowth, 
and luxuriating in the full sunshine of an azure blue sky, far 
exceed in beauty those of V. chamissoniana, which are of the 
ordinary violet colour.—(Nature.) 


SLOW COMBUSTION, AND ECONOMY IN 
FUEL. 

I opsERvE in your Journal of October 27th, that ‘‘R.S.’” 
has succeeded in keeping up the heat of his greenhouse by 
having two holes drilled in the ashpit door. Will he kindly 
say is it the ashpit door he had the holes drilled in, or the fire 
door? because very few flues have doors to the fire as well as 
the ashpit. Would you state if it would not be better to 
have a regulator on the fire and ashpit door to regulate the fire, 
instead of the damper ? as I fancy the damper prevents the heat 
rising. My boiler is a conical one with a jacket, and the fire, 
to go up the chimney, has to go through it, but it takes a great 
deal of fire and attention to keep the heat up. Can you give 
me any idea how large a fireplace should be to allow of sufti- 
cient coals being put on to burn and to keep up the heat during 
the night ?—A. Y. 

[We have no doubt that ‘‘R. 8.” in alluding to the holes 
made in the ashpit door, at page 321, does mean the ashpit 
door, and not the firebox, or furnace door. Perhaps ‘“ R.§8.’” 
may have something to add to his interesting article. Mean- 
while, we may say that where economy in fuel, and suflicient 
heat, and slow combustion are required, both the furnace door 
and ashpit door should be made to fit as closely as possible. 
Many of the best makers of these doors send out ashpit doors 
fitted with a valve or other moveable opening to regulate the 
draught, and this would avoid the expense of cutting out the 
hole and fixing the valve over it. We should not like to intrude 
an opinion into this domain of ‘‘R.§.,” though we should 
incline to think that one hole in the centre, with the valve, 
would have been sufficient. When once a fire is lighted and 
burning freely, it is amazing how small a quantity of fresh air 
is necessary to support slow regular combustion. On this prin- 
ciple all our best iron stoves are made. The valve in the ashpit 
door can thus be screwed up, soas tolezve not more air on than 
that alluded toby ‘‘R. 8S.” It is by the ashpit opening that the 
combustion must be regulated. Many iron stoves have also a 
small valve opening above, and, therefore, over the firebox and 
fuel—not so much or at all for ensuring combustion, as to pre- 
yent smoke going up and choking the small iron chimney. 

When you inquire whether it would not be well to havea 
regulator on the furnace as well as the ashpit door, to regulate 
the fire, instead of the damper, we must answer Yes, and 
No. Yes, so far as we have stated above, the ashpit regulator 
would regulate combustion, and that can be done toa nicety 
only as the result of watchful attention, and noting the state 
of the weather. Yes, too, so far as a very little air coming 
over the fuel would tend to lessen, and mostly consume the 
smoke. But,'then, as to these rendering a damper unnecessary, 
when a small house is to be heated economically from a boiler, 
we say decidedly No. In heating by a flue, a brick stove, an 
iron stoye, or an earthenware stove, in a house of any sort, 
there is no necessity for a damper. After the fire is fairly 
going, a little slit in the ashpit door will not only regulate 
combustion, but will concentrate the most of the heat in the 
flue or stove. But with boilers, and especially conical boilers 
such as yours, where the heat passes so quickly into the 
chimney, ® damper is important for concentrating that heat 
round the boiler, instead of allowing it to go up the chimney 
so easily. If the damper is close-fitting, it should not go quite 
home, but a quarter of an inch or less would permit of slow 
combustion. We find this matter is simplified by having a 
close-fitting damper across the chimney, but with a hole an 
inch in diameter in the centre, so that there shall be a passage 


January 5, 1871. 


for smoke and heated air, and yet a surface presented to throw 
back the greater amount of rising heat over the boiler. 

There are here two things well worthy of attention. First, 
many of our readers who are new to such matters become con- 
fused in so much talk about slits in furnace doors and con- 
fining heat by dampers. This would be simplified if it were 
understood that a good heat must first be obtained before either 
regulating slit or damper can be used. In producing that heat 
there is no means for preventing waste of heat up the chimney 
at first. Thus, if we went to the furnaceof ‘A. Y.,” with the 
fire out, we would clean out the firebox, clinkers, &c., keep- 
ing {the ashpit door shut, then we would clean out the ashpit, 
making for our own comfort as little dust as possible. Jn all 
that “R.S.” says of a clean ashpit we thoroughly agree. 
‘Were this little matter better understood, we should not have 
young fellows coming in dire perplexity telling us that the fire 
would not draw, and no wonder, when the ashpit was stuffed 
up to the bars with ashes. Any old washerwoman would have 
shown more sense. Catch her suffocated with smoke because 
the ashpit was filled up! 

On lighting the fire we would leave the ashpit door open to 
have a good draught, waste of heat notwithstanding, just as in 
lighting a fire in an iron stove we would leave the ashpit door 
partly open until we had a good fire. It would only be when 
we found the pipes from the boiler getting warm we would 
partly shut the furnace door; then when warm enough, shut it 
altogether, and merely admit alittle air by a valve or otherwise, 
and shortly afterwards we would use the damper, as our object 
would be to continue the heat by slow combustion, and not to 
make it greater. Itis possible by a careful use of the air at the 
ashpit door that the damper may be rendered as unnecessary in 
the case of a boiler, as in that of an iron or a brick stove, but 
according to our present impressions we should like to have 
the damper in addition. 

We have frequently stated that for a small single house 
heating by hot water cannot but be expensive, as the waste is 
so much greater in proportion to the small space heated. 
Hence, for small detached greenhouses, heating by a flue 
either above or below the floor will always be more economical 
and require less trouble than hot water. In large houses, or 
@ series of houses, the matter is different. The economy con- 
sists in the heat being pretty well absorbed in a clean flue 
before the heat reaches the chimney, and then because the 
material of the flue holds heat once given to it longer than 
water. 

Our experience with stoves led us first to be thoroughly con- 
vinced of what we had previously acted upon—the small quantity 
of air sufficient to keep up a slow combustion and the neces- 
sary heat after that heat had first been obtained. Just bear in 
mind that the damper and ashpit valve become valuable only 
after heat has first been obtained. 

Here we may add, that provided ‘A. Y.” has a close-fitting 
ashpit door, he might have three or four holes drilled in the 
contre of it, each about one-eighth of an inch in diameter, be- 
fore going to the expense of brass valves, and if he do so, will 
the kindly report the results? We shall be sure to find better 
data in such cases than from the furnaces of large places, as 
there it is so difficult to get little matters attended to—even 
valyes are knocked to pieces with a stroke of a pokey, or a 
barrowload of fuel is pitched over them, and there is nobody 
to bear the blame. Attentive amateurs will be our best help as 
respects economic heating. 

The second matter to which we wish to allude is simply this, 
that a small boiler and as small a furnace as possible are by 
no means synonymous with economical heating. A gardener 
of large experience, who has taken to a small nursery, has lately 
told us the trouble he has had in heating a house with a small 
boiler, and the furnace so small that two or three spadesful of 
fuel fill it. Now, in such a case there must have been almost 
constant poking, and, of course, valves and dampers must have 
been at a discount. The boiler in this case was placed accord- 
ing to what we believe to be a too-general error; small as it 
was, it rested on the level of the firebars; the belief somehow 
having got about that the more the boiler formed the firebox, 
the greater would be the heat absorbed. Now, in several such 
cases as that referred to above, great advantage, and economy 
in fuel too, have been obtained by letting the little boiler 
yemain as it was, and sinking the firebars beneath it to the 
depth of one or two firebricks ; more firing could thus be used 
at a time, and when the heat necessary was obtained, the con- 
tinuous heat could be easily regulated by the ashpit door and 
damper, without so frequently and wastefully poking the fire. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 9 


We think these simple matters more important than what 
‘“A. Y.” further requires, ‘‘ How large a fireplace should be to 
allow of sufficient coal being put on to burn, and to keep up 
heat during the night ?”’ but we shall be glad if some reader will 
contribute to the object desired. For ourselves, long ago we 
made some experiments in this way, but we found that dif- 
ference of fuel and difference in circumstances made such 
astounding differences in results, that we came to the conclu- 
sion that no rule thus obtained could ever take the place of 
careful watchful attention to individual cases. A furnace to 
consume such fuel as ‘‘R. 8.” uses, may be much smaller than 
a furnace to be supplied with ashes, cinders, breese, or the 
cheapest and best heat-giving fuel. A very small furnace,: 
unless for a very small place, is generally a mistake every way, 
and by the poking, and punching, and frequent supplies re- 
quired, consumes more fuel than if it had been larger. A 
similar error is constantly committed by those who have their 
little houses heated by hot water, which houses could only be 
safe in such severe weather as we now have, by heating the 
water nearly to the boiling point. It would be far more eco- 
nomical in the long run, and better in every way, to have a 
third more piping, and never have the water higher in tem- 
perature than from 160° to 180°. A first saving here is any- 
thing but ultimate economy.—R. F.] 


NEW BOOK. 


The ‘Field Quarterly Magazine and Review.” 
London: H. Cox. 


Four issues of this quarterly publication are now unitedin a 
well-bound volume. The contents are exclusively good selec- 
tions from the Field weekly newspaper, and combine especially 
information relative to all our national sports and the country 
house, 


Vol. I. 


LATE PEAS NORTHWARDS. 


ArreR two months’ silence Mr. Porter now says I put Veitch’s 
Perfection in the wrong place as a late Pea, which I emphati- 
cally deny; I say this as my own experience, which is more 
than Mr. Porter can say, for had he grown it and Ne Plus Ultra 
side-by-side, he would have proved the difference to be in 
favour of Veitch’s Perfection. If this has any weight, 1 may 
say that I exhibited at the Prestwich Floral and Horticultural 
Showin August, 1870, a dish of Veitch’s Perfection as well as 
Ne Plus Ultra, and the first prize was awarded to Veitch’s Per- 
fection, which also took the same honour in September at a 
local show held a short distance from here. Has any practical 
gardener (which Mr. Porter is not) accustomed to this part of 
Lancashire seen Peas late in November? Certainly neither Mr. 
Porter nor anyone has done so this year, though it is a pity he 
does not state the exact date (he says late in November), and if 
he saw Peas growing after the 20th of November. Between 
November 20th, and the same date of December, the frost at 
night varied from 3° to 9°. 

Ne Plus Ultra is undoubtedly a first-class Pea, as I said at 
page 324, but I have yet to learn that it is better than Veitch’s 
Perfection for late supply. I distinctly remembered that when 
I pulled up, at the end of October, the haulm of Veitch’s Per- 
fection, sown at the same date as Ne Plus Ultra—though Veitch’s 
Perfection was a week later in coming in—Ne Plus Ultra was 
quite dry, while the other was quite green. Though, as I stated, 
I gathered the last dish on September 30th, it was by no means 
the last of the Peas, as I found them very useful for soups up 
to the end of October. I have no doubt what I gathered for 
soups would have made some families dishes, but I ceased 
gathering as soon as the cook said the peas boiled irregularly. 
LT intend seeing whether it is possible to gather good peas, say, 
at the end of Octoker and beginning of November. I have not 
seen any at thet time good, but merely fit for soup, whether in 
Staffordshire, Cheshire, Derbyshire, or Lancashire.—SrErHEN 
Castuz, Bent Hill Gardens, Prestwich, Manchester. 


DARLINGTONIA CALIFORNICA. 


Messrs. Verrcn & Sons have grown this plant for a con- 
siderable time in their houses at Chelsea. 

In London, as in California, this curious plant possesses the 
same irresistible attraction to insects, and as I have repeatedly 
examined living plants at Chelsea, perhaps the following notes 
may have some interest. 

This so-called Pitcher Plant, when fully grown, resembles in 


10 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ January 5, 1871. 


shape the upraised head and body of an excited cobra, with 
hood expanded and prerared for a spring; the head is at right 
angles with tke hollow vertical body, and apparently presents 
no opening by which an insect could enter; under the place 
where the lower jaw would be, hang two large reddish appendages 
like the wattles of a fowl. At Chelsea this plant possesses such 
an extraordinary attraction for flies (principally blue-bottles), 
that the hollow ‘pitchers’? are generally full of their dead 
bodies ; what this attraction is I am unable to say, as the plant 
is scentless. 

Last year I had a Darlingtonia before me for some three or 
four hours, whilst sketching it, and I then observed that the 
blow-flies made straight for it immediately they entered the 
room. Insects alight on the red wattles and then fly upwards 
into the (previously unseen) red-lipped entrance to the tube; 
owing to the sudden twist in the neck of the pitcher, they are 
at once compelled to descend the hollow body, and, as far as L 
have observed, they never return alive. They keep up a buzzing 
noise for half an hour or so, and then apparently die. 

The old pitchers are generally full of dead flies, &c., and the 
lowermost insects, in rotting, cause the pitchers to decay and 
split, the flies within being then displayed. These dead flies 
often drop out through the fissures and become grouped round 
the bottom of the plant.—Worruineton G. Surra.—(Nature.) 


NOTABLE PEARS. 


FonpAnre pv Comice.—As a society there is none which 
has done more for the advancement of pomology than the 
‘*Comice Horticole of Angers.” Like the Royal Horticultural 
Society of London, it is one of the few that enjoy the privilege 
of possessing a garden where horticultural experiments are 
conducted, and where pomology receives more than ordinary 
attention. The number of new varieties of fruit which have 
originated in that garden is sufficient evidence of this state- 
ment; and the mere fact that such Pears as Doyenné du 
Comice, Fondante du Comice, and Cassante du Comice, have 
originated there speaks highly in favour of the establishment. 


specimens of the new varieties of fruits raised in that city, we 
now acknowledge; and during the past season it has fruited in 
the garden of the Royal Horticultural Society at Chiswick- 
Having now ascertained to what extent this variety is adapted 
to our climate, and having found it worthy of notice, we take 
an early opportunity of making our readers acquainted with its 
merits. It is only when foreign varieties have been grown in 
this country that any confidence can be placed in their reputed 
characteristics. 

This variety is obovate in shape, even and regular in its out- 
line, smaller and more symmetrical than when grown on the 
Continent, where it is rather uneven. Skin smooth, of a uni- 
form yellowish or pea green, covered with distinct markings 
of russet and russet dots. Hye small and open, with erect 
acute segments, set in a very deep and smooth round basin. 
Stalk woody, also green like the skin, about an inch long, and 
inserted obliquely with a fleshy lip on one side of it. Flesh 
white, crisp, very juicy and sweet, slightly acidulous, and very 
refreshing, being in this respect somewhat similar to the old 
St. Germain. 

Ripe in the end of October, and the beginning of November. 

The tree is a good bearer, and not at all a strong grower- 
It succeeds best on the Pear stock, and as it makes rather an 
awkward pyramid, the bush form will be the most proper for it. 

Enrant Propicve (syn. Rousselet Enfant Prodigue: Nec- 
tarine of Leroy, erroneously).—This is one of numerous va- 
rieties raised by Van Mons, which keep cropping up perio- 
dically, as additional evidences of the indefatigable labours of 
the industrious Professor. It was raised about 1830 in his 
garden at Louvain, and although it is well known on the Con- 
tinent, it has never been much cultivated in this country. It 
is not always of first-rate quality, but in situations such as the 
west of England, and other favoured localities, where it does 
succeed, its fine brisk sweet juice and high flavour commend it 
as a variety well worth growing. 

The fruit is variable in size; the specimen here figureé 
being larger than is usual. It is uneven and bossed in its out~ 
line. The skin is clear dark green, changing as it ripens to 
pale yellow, which is sometimes quite obscured with veins and 


Fondante du Comice. 


Fondante du Comice, which we now introduce to our readers, 
first fruited in the Society’s garden at Angers in the year 1849. 
It has been slow in coming into notice in this country, pro- 
bably from the ignorance of cultivators of its merits. Six 
years ago we met with it in the collection of M. André Leroy, 
at Angers, to whose courtesy in furnishing us with numerous 


Enfant Prodigue. 


mottles of cinnamon-coloured russet. Eye large and open, 
with broad, flat, leaf-like segments set in a rather deep and 
uneven basin. Stalk half an inch long, woody, set in a wide 
shallow depression. Flesh greenish under the skin, crisp, and 
half melting, very juicy, sweet, acidulous, and with a fine 
aroma partaking of that of the Seckle. 


January 5, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


Il 


An excellent Pear, with a fine acidulous flavour, ripe in the 
beginning of October, and continuing in use throughout the 
month. 

The trea is a good bearer, and forms a handsome pyramid. 

Mintor pE Nancy.—We have here a posthumous variety of 
Van Mons’, of which the earliest information we have is in 
1843, when it was named by the son of the Professor in honour 
of M. Millot, oi Nancy, an ardent pomologist. We have grown 
it for the last twenty years in this country, and proved it to be 
of the highest excellence. In some seasons, as for instance in 
1866, it was somewhat astringent in flavour, but generally it 
has proved excellent. 


Millot de Nancy. 


The fruit is roundish, inclining to turbinate, even and hand- 
some in its outline. The skin ig smooth, of a uniform coppery 
red or warm cinnamon colour caused by a coating of russet 
over its whole surface, and dotted with ashen grey dots. Eye 
rather small and open, set almost level with the surface. 
Stalk about an inch long, woody, fleshy at the base, straight, 
and obliquely inserted in a very slight depression. Flesh 
whitish, half melting, very juicy and tender, rich, sweet, brisk, 
highly flavoured, and with a fine perfume. 

It is a first-rate Pear, ripe in October, and during November. 


PORTRAIT OF MR. RIVERS. 


Tue following additional subscriptions have been received :— 


ES) IS G5 
Barron, Mr. A. F., Chiswick.............:.0+: 010 6 
Rivett, Mr., Stratford, Essex ................ LO 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


4 KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Ir is hoped that, in accordance with repeated injunctions, 
the wheeling of manure and trenching-up vacant quarters 
in this department haye been regularly and systematically 
followed up in favourable weather. Let this kind of work be 
continued as often as opportunity offers. All green refuge and 
decayed matter when trenched-in should be strewed over with 
lime to hasten decomposition and destroy insects. Choose also 
the opportunity of dry frosty mornings to fork-up ground pre- 
viously trenched, so as to get the surface in good working order ; 
if severe weather continue but little can be advised in the way 
of cropping. If, however, a change take place and the ground 
can be worked, the first opportunity must be seized to make 
a second sowing of Broad Beans and Peas on a warm border. 
Sow a moderate breadth of Early Horn Carrot and Short-top 
Radish, to be sown in drills alternately, covering with healthy 


sandy soil, and protecting with any available matter. An ex- 
cellent method of fastening down such material is to place 
long willow rods at convenient distances, pegging them down 
at each end with a strong hook. Cauliflowers under hand- 
lights require constant attention. Keep the surface stirred. 
An excellent plan to catch slugs among these is to split large 
Carrots and lay the pieces about the plants; by picking them 
off on mild mornings, an immense number of slugs may he 
taken. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

Continue the pruning and nailing of the hardier kinds of 
fruit trees at every opportunity, have a good plank to stand 
upon, and if very cold-wear also a large pair of wooden clogs. 
No considerate master will ever censure a man for being careful 
of his health. In pruning and nailing wall trees let them be 
entirely removed from the wall, which should be swept with a 
birch broom, if there is any fear of insects lodging in the 
crevices ; the trees should then be renailed with fresh nails and 
shreds, using as few as possible, and of strength according to 
the size of the branches. ‘The pruning of Currants and Goose- 
berries should be deferred for a time, as if sharp weather 
prevail during this and part of next month, birds are apt to he 
very destructive to the buds. Prune espalier Apple and Peay 
trees, and fork-up the ground about them in frosty weather 
to disturb and destroy insects. In the orchard thin out cross 
and crowded branches from Apples, Pears, and Quinces, it is a 
great mistake to leave too much wood. Scrape off moss and 
lichen from the stems, and if time will serve, dress both these 
and espalier trees with a mixture of quicklime and clay 
brought to the consistence of thick paint. If this be done well, 
there will be no need to scrape them for some years. 


FLOWER GARDEN. 

Allis hard as adamant here; we can do little until the Snow- 
drops begin to peep up. Some kinds of ground work may be 
proceeded with, and the mattock or pick will be in request.. 
Should the present severe weather continue, the chief oper- 
ations will consist in giving additional protection, and in 
covering those plants which in ordinary seasons it is not ne- 
cessary to protect. Roses must have additional coverings to 
the roots—such as litter, moss, leaves, or sawdust, and the tops 
must be protected with straw, hay, fern, or evergreen boughs— 
in fact, anything of the kind, and the drier, the material used 
the better. The same remarks apply to climbers on walls ; 
over these mats may also be fastened, for although coverings 
are not required to be firm, the mats are useful in keeping the 
other materials dry and clean. Auriculas will now begin to 
require some extra attention independently of keeping them 
perfectly clear of dead leaves, which must be removed very 
gently for fear of injuring the root or stock. They may iu 
mild weather have an occasional watering, carefully guarding 
against any moisture remaining in the heart. Give all the air 
possible, taking care to cover the frames well at night. Look 
over the beds of Pinks and Pansies; plants which have but 
lately been removed are very liable to be raised by the frost; 
these must be carefully fastened by pressing the soil gently to 
them when it is tolerably dry. The soil which has been 
exposed to the action of the frost, may the first fine day be 
returned to the Ranunculus beds in order that they may settle 
down before planting. Carnations must be carefully gone 
over, those in beds fastened if loose, and cleared of dead leaves, 
which when lodged on the plants retain moisture which is 
injurious to them. 


GREENHOUSH AND CONSERVATORY. 

Keep the conservatory at a temperature of about 45° by night, 
raising it to 55° in the day, with plenty of air at every favour- 
able opportunity. Keep the atmosphere moderately moist, as 
much for the preservation of the flowers as for the comfort of 
the visitors. Keep every part of the house as clean as possible. 
Remove flowers as soon as they become shabby, and endeayour 
to concentrate the floral beauty of the place in this one house. 
Stove plants will suffer no injury for a few days in the above 
temperature, but hardwooded greenhouse plants, as Heaths, 
should not remain more than a few days at a time in sucha 
temperature. Take care that the Camellias do not suffer from 
want of water now they are blooming. Prune, train, and clean 
the climbers on the rafters, &c. The greenhouse in the gene- 
rality of establishments is a mixed affair, where hardwooded 
and softwooded plants are obliged to be together. In such 
places 2 compromise must be made in the treatment by keep- 
ing it a few degrees warmer than Heaths and other Cape plants 
require, and yet sufficiently warm for Pelargoniums, Calceo- 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 5, 1871. 


larias, &e. Arrange the plants in groups, so that air can be 
admitted to the Heaths at times when it would be injudicious 
to admit it to softwooded plants. Admit air at all favourable 
opportunities, but be careful of north-east winds. 


STOVE. 

Now that the shortest day is past, some of the plants which 
it is intended to make the most of during the growing season 
may be started gently, preparatory to being potted, towards the 
end of this or the beginning of next month. Among these, 
such plants as Ixoras, Allamandas, and Dipladenias may be 
started. Do not increase the temperature much this month, 
except by taking advantage of sunny days, and then a syringe- 
ful of water may be drawn over the plants without any risk 
of doing injury. All the plants wanted for late blooming must 
be kept back for the present. If not done before, the whole of 
the Clerodendrons must be shaken out, their roots reduced, and 
repotted in small pots in light sandy-loam compost. Place 
them in heat until they have made shoots about an inch long, 
and then, unless required to bloom very early, they may be 
preserved for a time in a lower temperature. Luculia gratis- 
sima, as soon as it has done blooming, must have the side 
branches shortened-in a little, and be placed in heat to pro- 
duce cuttings for propagation. As soon as the shoots are 
2 inches long tie a tight ligature below the lowest joint, and 
when the bark has swelled a little, say in about a fortnight, 

’ the cuttings may be taken off, potted singly in very small pots, 
plunged in a gentle bottom heat, covered with a hand-glass, and 
they will strike very readily. ~ 


FORCING PIT. 
Remove the plants to the conservatory as fast as the flowers 
expand, and introduce others from the reserve for succession, 
placing them first at the eool end of the house or pit, so as to 
excite them gradually. A few Pinks and Sweet Williams may 
be started, and plenty of Lily of the Valley, Sweet Briar, and 
other sweet-smelling plants. Gardenias must also be sterted, 
and as the Stephanotis is a great favourite with the ladies, a 
plant or two should be placed in the warmest end of the pit. 
Maintain a growing moist temperature of from 60° to 65° or 
70° with sun heat.—W. Keane. , 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


On New Year’s-eve we have similar weather after a week of 
keen frost, as we had at Christmas-eve. Very fortunately the 
frost has been greatly counteracted as respects vegetables and 
‘Wheat fields by the frequent fall of snow, which will be of 
great protecting benefit to everything beneath it. 

Our chief work out of doors (for ground work or moving 
earth was impossible) was wheeling the rubbish-heap and soil, 
and, on cutting a spinney, collecting flower stakes and Pea 
stakes, stakes for Hollyhocks, Dahlias, &c., in a rough state, 
so that we could finish them at home in unsettled weather. 
We prefer for flowers clean straight stakes with the bark on, 
to deal and lath sticks, however nicely whittled. The object of 
a stake is merely to support a plant, but the less the support 
is seen the better. 

In most gardens the number of sticks required from one- 
eighth of an inch in diameter to 2 inches across is astonishing. 
Preferring those with bark on them as less conspicuous, it is 
always advisable to have a quantity laid up in store, and not 
be forced to try and find some at seasons of the year when 
going into a coppice for them might give offence, from dis- 
turbing young game, &e. A gardener now-a-days, to obtain 
what he wants, must keep his eyes about him. When such 
small sticks are pruned and straightened, it is well to put them 
into bundles, tied firmly, which keeps them in the desired 
position. Pea stakes can also be arranged in sizes, and 
pointed on bad days, when men could scarcely stand out. 
Collecting and bringing them home was good work for the 
frosty weather, as most of the snow has come on at night. 
Some time ago we made remarks on pointing sticks. For 
good-sized ones, three strokes of the bill are sufficient. For 
small flower sticks, two strokes of the knife are suflicient—the 
first slips off the half of the diameter at the base, the other 
takes away the half of what remains, leaving 2 neat point. We 
have seen more whittling over the point of a little stick than 
would have done for more than half a dozen of a similar size— 
a matter of importance where myriads of these are used. 

In-doors, besides the general attention as alluded to last 
week, the chief work has been cleaning and picking over plants 


where they had any leaves not quite healthy, and attending to 
their various wants, giving as little water as could be to keep 
things right in such severe weather. 

The following matters have also received, or should now 
demand attention :— 

The orchard houses, on cutting the last Grapes, the roofs 
being covered with snow, were again well smoked by burning 
partly broken and bruised laurel leaves. This was done gene- 
rally by way of precaution, as it could do no harm, and few 
insects can stand the pungent smoke, quite as obnoxious to 
some insects as the smoke of tobacco, whilst it costs nothing 
but getting the laurel leaves and young shoots. The roofs 
being rather open, it would of little use smoking the houses 
unless they were covered with snow. 

Some Pear trees that had a little scale on the branches 
we meant to have syringed with water during this keen 
weather, so as to surround the branches with a layer of ice, but 
cn examining those we meant thus to serve, we find that the 
heat of the day had sufficiently melted the snow to enclose the 
wood in a film of ice. As it would be impossible for air to 
pass through a good ice covering, we found frequently that 
when such ice scaled off in a change of temperature, the scale, 
&¢e., peeled away with the ice ; the more firmly the ice surrounds 
the branches, the more effectually will it act as an insect-de- 
stroyer. Sheeting fruit trees on walls with ice is, therefore, 
often a benefit; we have consequently found it‘useful in severe 
frost to syringe a tree all over, and for convenience and greater 
benefit to use heated water, as the transition from heat to cold 
was all the greater. We never knew hardy trees injured by 
this treatment, whilst the water filled all the crannies in the 
wall, and made that too a sheet of ice, shutting-up from free 
access to air what living things might be in holes and crannies. 
There is, however, one drawback against such a water appli- 
cation to wall trees in severe frost in winter. If the wall 
should be of stone, soft and porous, or of bricks rather soft 
and not thoroughly hard burned, if the frost should be severe 
and continuous, there is a risk that the ice will bring pieces of 
the wall along with it, and thus accelerate its decay. It is 
anything but economy to use soft inferior bricks for garden 
walls. They absorb moisture like a sponge, and when once the 
outside peels off, they become little better for all practical pur- 
poses than so much dried hard-pressed mud. We should not 
like, therefore, to resort to such a plan where the walls were 
soft. On wood fences there could be no such objection, and 
we have known of several cases where, from using such inferior 
bricks, walls would not hold a nail at length, and then it became 
necessary to front them with wood. 

Fruit rooms and late Grapes needed looking over, as lately 
stated, Pears still being behind Apples as respects keeping. 
Dahlia tubers, Potatoes, &c., needed more protection from the 
severe weather. More litter was also placed over Mushroom 
beds in an open shed. 

Protection.—Where a high temperature is required, a little 
protection over the front glass does much to render less firing 
necessary, and thus there is less drying the air inside, and less 
necessity for moistening that air artificially, and in ordinary 
cases getting the moisture condensed so as to fall over the 
plants in the house. Common iron roofs not kept thoroughly 
painted soon show themselves in this way, as every rusty water- 
drop leaves a stain behind it. When a high temperature is 
used moisture must be given in proportion ; but in such weather 
it is often better to let the temperature fall 5° or 10°, so as still 
to be safe, instead of using more fire heat and consequently more 
vapour in dull cloudy weather. 

All things in cold pits and frames covered up on Christmas- 
eve have remained covered up ever since. When the thermo- 
meter fell more than 20° below freezing point more litter was 
added, and in one or two cases even above a layer of snow. In 
such weather, however, we are loth to disturb a surface-cover- 
ing of snow, as from its open character and white colour it 
forms one of our best protectors. We just peeved in at times 
to find all was cool and yet safe. With continuous covering there 
must be no incitement to growth. 

Such a week clearly demonstrates the importance of a small 
house in which you can walk and work, over a pit or frame in 
which one can do nothing without opening the sashes. We 
should have liked to have done work in frames or pits, but 
the opening of the sashes, except for a very short time, would 
have been dangerous in such weather, when even plants at all 
tender could only be moved by placing them in covered boxes 
or baskets, to prevent their feeling the extremes of temperature. 
We would have done more potting and proceeded with more 


January 5, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 1 


vo 


cutting-making, if, without moving sashes, we could have more 
easily reached the plants. 

Obtaining fresh platforms and repairing others prevented our 
doing so much as we might have done in houses to which 
we could gain access. Merely for the sake of getting inside, by 
opening and shutting a small door, a little house will always 
be better than 2 place of the same size where every attention 
and regulation of the plants must be given from the outside. 

We may mention that though the wind seems to be veering 
to the south, the frost is still as severe as ever, and if it should 
continue a week or two longer we shall let Calceolarias, young 
Cauliflowers, &c., remain covered up just as they are. When 
the thaw comes, the cautions given last week must be attended 
to. In such weather, where there can be no growth, covering and 
uncoyering each day are little better than lebour thrown away. 

See what was said lately as respects forcing shrubs, Roses, 
bulbs, &e. Alltheso will be benefited by a gentle bottom heat 
and bringing them on by a gradual increase of top temperature, 
the more gradual the better in every way; the buds break 
more regularly, and the flowers come finer, and on the whole 
are sooner fit for gathering. 

All forcing of fruit trees, if not far advanced, should proceed 
very slowly, until this keen frost pass away. With the roots pro- 
tected, if outside, the frost itself would not be a drawback; it 
is the foggy, cloudy weather that, when much heat is used, 
causes growth to be more weak and juicy than when we can 
have the help of more sunshine. Many tubers and bulbs may 
now be potted, and placed in a cool place. Some of the earliest 
tuberous Gesneras, may be putin pans until growth is pro- 
gressing, and then the mode of flowering may be decided on. 
The tubers of Gesnera zebrina do not keep well unless rather 
dry, and the temperature not long under 50°. The tenderer 
Caladiums, if dry, will keep in an average temperature of 60°: 
if much lower for any length of time they shrivel and rot. 
Most of the Achimenes will be safe ina temperature of from 
45° to 50°, either in dry soil or sand. These may be picked 
out now, and placed in small pans in a mild heat to set them 


going. The same may be said of Gloxinias, easily wiutered 
under stages, &c. They may now be repotted for early bloom- 
ing.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


B. S. Williams, Victoria and Paradise Nurseries, Upper Holloway, 
London, N.—Descriptive Catalogue of Flower, Vegetable, and Agri- 
cultural Seeds. 

Charles Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough— Catalogue of Seeds for 
the Kitchen, the Flower Garden, andthe Farm. 

Child & Lorimer, 49, Darley Street, Bradford, and Bradford Nur- 
series, Shipley.— General Seed Catalogue and Garden Guide. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

*,* Werequest that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘“ Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, &c., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 

also request that correspondents will not mix up on the 
same sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on 
Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them an- 
swered promptly and conveniently, but write them on 
Separate communications. Also never to send more than 
two or three questions at once. 


Booxs (Sigma).—You can have the * Orchid Manual” free by post from 
our office if you enclose thirty-two post-office stamps, with your address. 
All the leading nurserymen publish priced and descriptive lists of Ca- 
mellias. They would send the lists by post ifasked. (G. B. Anstruther). 
—tThe price of the ‘‘ Cottage Gardeners’ Dictionary” with the Appendix, 
is 6s.6d. Youcan have it free by post from our office for 8d. extra. (A 
Subscriber).— Florists’ Flowers for the Many’ gives full directions for 
Pelargonium culture. Youcan have it from our office post free for five 
postage stamps. 


CycLAMEN SEEDLINGS Buoomrne (J. Wiggins).—Though you have not 
succeeded in blooming them until they were fourteen months old, it is 
quite certain that others whose communications we have published, have 
bloomed them when ten months old. Read what they say and are still 
Saying. 

PoRTABLE ORCHARD AND GREENHOUSE (H. C.).—If the woodwork is 
not fixed into the wall, nor to the brick foundation, the whole may be 
removed legally. 

Roses (W. H. B.).—Tho Roses named are nearly all of them old sorts, 
which have been superseded by newer and better ones. Francois Arago is 
velvety maroon, a robust grower, and still a good Rose, though too flat. 
Madame Laffuy, red, moderate grower, far surpassed now by other va- 


La Reine, bright rose, large and full, but often opens badly; at 
times a very fine Rose, but very capricious. Catherine Guillot, deep 
rose, a Bourbon, and a free bloomer; still worth growing. Reine des 
Violettes, violet rose, a bad-shaped flower, apt to fade. Jacques Lafitte, 
deep rose, a strong but coarse flower, and not free; no longer worth grow- 
ing. Abd el Kader, dark plum, not full, shy bloomer. Of the seven, only 
Francois Arago, La Reine, and Catherine Guillot are worth growing, and 
not one, we think, worth naming in a list of fifty, though if we were plant- 
ing one hundred varieties, we should find room for them. 


Pear (J. B. White.)—Colmar Epineux isa synonym of the Passe Colmar. 


Nurs (C. N. B.).—‘* Fruit Gardening for the Many ” contains what you 
require. You can have a copy from our office free by post if you enclose 
five postage stamps with your address. 

Sowine AucuBA Berries (4 Subscriber, Tralec)—When the berries 
are ripe, which will be known by their parting readily or falling from the 
plant, sow them in well-drained pans three parts filled with turfy yellow 
loam two-thirds, and one-third leaf soil, and cover with a thickness cf 
fine soil equal to the diameter of the berries. A gentle watering should 
then be given, and the pan placed in a cold frame. The soil being kept 
moist, the seeds will vegetate, if good, in due season. 


THE EGyprraAN MELON (G. S.).—We believe it is to be had true. It is 
in the catalogues of trustworthy seedsmen, and many gardeners preserve 
the seed for home use. 


Prorectinc Pampas Grass (Anthony and others).—The following from 
a correspondent opportunely answers your inquiry— A good protection 
for the Pampas Grass is a hamper without the bottom, turned the wrong 
way up, and filled with dry leaves.—C. L.” 


Grapes (A Grower of Grapes).—If the Tokay Grape that was exhibited 
was the true one it is an excellent late-hanging Grape, but certainly 
inferior to the White Muscat of Alexandria. We cannot, on any principle 
of common sense, understand why at the Darlington Show black Grapes 
should be judged by appearance and white Grapes by flavour, the black 
being Lady Downe’s and Oldaker’s West’s St. Peter’s, and the white, 
Muscat of Alexandria and Tokay. If no condition to that effect was 
given in the rules it is an injustice to exhibitors; and the judges who 
would act thus on their own responsibility are unfit for their office. 


Younc Trees BARKED By Hares (J. K.).—If your trees are barked 
completely all round to the height of a foot you may take them up at 
once and plant afresh. If only barked here and there in that space, 
cover the wounds with some grafting-wax or other similar protection, 
and dress the whole of the trees within reach of the hares with a thick 
paste of night soil and stale urine from the stable. 

SeLecr SINGLE Fucusts (4 Subscriber) —Dark : Vesta, Enoch Arden>. 
Lord Derby, Mr. Disraeli, Father Ignatius, and Glowworm. Light: Mrs- 
Bland, Mrs. Shirley Hibberd, Rose of Denmark, Picturata, Brilliantissima- 
and Guiding Star. 

SeLrcr PENTstEMons. (Idem) —Arthur M‘Hardy, James Rothschild, 
Léon Laprevote, Purple King, Flower of the Day, John M‘Pherson, Miss 
Carnegie, Surpasse Victor Hugo, Sunrise, Mrs. A.Sterry Illuminator and 
Stanstead Surprise. The habit of Christine Nosegay is good, but as we 
haye seen it, scarcely so free-blooming as could be desired. 


ANGULAR FLowER BEDs (Penumbra).—These will be duly noticed iz 
Mr. O’Donnell’s directions. Your plans are neat but not novel. 


DwarF Fruit Trers (An Old Subscriber, Bandon)—Rivers’s ‘ Minia- 
ture Fruit Garden” and Bréhaut’s “ Cordon Training” contain the 
directions you require. 

Waitt FiLowrrs For Easter (R. L.).—Lily of the Valley, Spirzea 
japonica, Hyacinths, Narcissus, and Deutzia gracilis are all first-rate. 
We know of no flowers that sown now would bloom at that time. Crocuse* 
and Snowdrops ought to be planted without delay, and they will flower 
naturally by the time you name, or if not, they may be placed in the 
greenhouse a short time previously. - 

CAMELLIA Leaves BuorcHep (J. P.).—The leaf sent us is blotched by 
the sun’s rays falling powerfully on it whilst wet. The blotching may 
have been a result of syringing or of condensed moisture falling on the 
leaves from the roof. The remedy is to give air so as to have the leaves 
dry before the sun shines powerfully on them, or to shade from very 
bright sun. We cannot name plants from leaves only. 


AZALEA WEAK (Inquirer)—We would not pot the plant until it had 
flowered, and then we would shift it, giving a good shift; but could you 
not reduce its ball, and repot in the same size of pot? Two parts of 
fibrous sandy peat, half a part of loam from turf, and the same of old 
cow dung, with plenty of sand, will grow Azaleas well. Good drainage is 
necessary. Encourage fresh growth by a brisk moist heat, shading from 
bright sun. We think the growth will be stronger another year. We 
would not top-dress now, but when the buds begin to swell, you may 
water with manure water, not guano, but sheep droppings, one peck to 
thirty gallons of water, or cow dung, one peck to twenty gallons. It is 
not likely you will succeed in getting jJeaves as large as those of the 
young plant, for young Azaleas, as a rule, have larger leaves than plants 
of considerable size and age. 


Srtect Dovgte PerunrAs (Idem).— Mademoiselle Marie de Saint 
Innocent, Achille Ragon, Victor, Monsieur Daroy, Gloire des Petunias, 
Honour, or Gazelle. 

RAVAGES OF TAE TITMOUSE (JV. B.).—You ask if we have known ‘‘'Tom- 
tits” take Peas out of the pods. The first year we grew Dickson's First 
and Best Pea, we found the peas taken out of the pods as they filled. 
Sparrows were blamed, as they are for everything, but we found the 
depredations were committed by the small blue Titmouse, or, as it is 
known in Yorkshire, ‘‘ Billybiter.” About 200 vards away from the Peas 
the bird had its nest in a wall, and the two old birds came to the Peas, 
one of them every three minutes, and returned tothe nest with a pea for 
the young. The small blue Titmouse is a great destroyer of fruit tree 
blossom buds, and is very fond of pecking at fruit, while Peas are its 
delight. The large Titmouse is fond of bush fruit buds, but we think its 
attacks end there, at least we have not seen it interfere with anything 
except Applesand Peays. ‘ Tomtit” in Yorkshireis the Wren, whichis 2 
sportive innocent creature, perfectly insectivorous. 

Kerpimne Cor Grapes (F. C.).—Cut off 6 inches of the lateral with eacl= 
bunch, put that lateral into a bottle filled with water, and store inf& cool, 
dry, dark place. 


rieties. 


14 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ January 5, 1871. 


ORCHARD-HOUSE Pors FrozeN (An Old Subscriber).—A little frost will 
do no injury to the roots of fruit trees in pots in an orchard honse. If 
the soil at the surface is rather dry, frost will do still less harm; but it is 
well to protect from severe frost with a little litter or moss over the pot. 


STRAWBERRIES IN GROUND VINERY (Idem).—To grow Strawberries in 
ground vineries, the simplest plan would be to grow them in such a place 
without the glass the previous year, so as to be well established. If you 
grow them in pots you will be able to remoye an unfruitful pot and 
replace it by another. When so grown the pots should be plunged in the 
autumn. It matters but little what the material may be—earth, ashes, 
<cocoa-nut fibre, &c., but if in pots we would place a little rich soil be- 
neath the bottom of the pots when the plants showed their flower trusses. 
Each mode—namely, the planting out and the growing in pots—has its 
advantages and disadvantages, the first costing least trouble, the second 
enabling one to make the most of the euclosed space, and, on the whole, 
getting arather better return, but with increased labour and nicety in 
attending to the wants of the plants. 

VINES 4S BusHES (Idem)—We do not think that Alicante, Lady 
Downe’s, or Foster’s White Seedling Vines will succeed well as bushes in 
pots in an unheated orchard house, uvless the season happen to be 
brighter and warmer than usual, as was the case last summer. 


Guazep Protectors (Idem)—Either of the two systems referred to 
for protecting winter salads, &c., we think is good. Where a high 
temperature is an advantage in summer. we would prefer brick to wood. 
‘We are doubtful of any advantage in winter from the brick walls of such 
little places. Merely for keeping out frost, we have almost as much faith 
in a 2-inck board as in = 9-inch wall. 

VINES IN Pors (Subscriber for Twenty Years).—There is less dependant 
oniehe age of the cane of a Vine than on its size, and ripened wood and 

yuds. 


repotting until you have the plant in a 15-inch pot, giving it always 
bottom heat and a growing top heat until you have the pot full of roots, 
and the stem strong and well browned by September. Then you might 
place the plant full in the sun against a fence with a south aspect fora 
month, and then against a north aspect for a month or six weeks to rest 
it, even by darkness, if the leaves are all off. You could start that plant 
again, and get good fruit from it in from twelve to sixteen months from 
the time of inserting the buds. To do this there must be no neglect, no 
svant of nourishment, &c. Fine fruiting canes may be obtained more 
easily, but with nearly double the expenditure of time, by not giving the 
plants so much attention the first year, getting them well ripened in 6 or 
8-inch pots, keeping them over the winter, cutting the plants down toa 
bud, and then starting them early, and putting them into their fruiting 
pots in time, so as to have the wood wellripened early in autumn. Were 
xve Short of labour power, and meant to do much with pot Vines, we 
would resort to the latter mode. The first mode will succeed, perhaps, as 
well, but the attention and care required will be greater. 
pot we have already alluded to—from 13 t 18-inch pots, will ripen a nice 
ane, that would produce from six to nine bunches of fruit, though fewer 


that fresh plants would be required. Besr in mind the plant must be 
thoroughly established in the pot early in the previous autumn. There 
must be no repotting when you force or grow for fruit, but there may be 
plenty of rich top-dressing. There is no soil better than fresh fibrous 
toam from rotten turf that has Jain long enongh to become sweet. To 
this add about one-eighth of old lime and brick rubbish, and a little 
more if the loam is at all stiff, and about as much of boiled bones, broken 
sto the size of small beans. In potting, and especially at the last potting, 
a small handful of such bones may be placed over the drainage. A little 
sweet rotten dung may be added, as horse droppings sweet and dry. But 
more will depend on a rather open compost, firm potting, rich watering, 
and top-dressing, than on the soil itself being clogged with manure. 


MELons SULPHURETTED—Prars Rive (A Constant Reader).—Why will 
not a Melon plant stand sulphur on the hot pipes as well as a Cucumber, 
they being both of the same family? Why.indeed? Itis very easy to 
put a simple question, which the greatest philosopher would be powerless 
to solve. We speak of the family of man; but how varied in colour, 
habits, likes, and dislikes! How true is the old proverb, ‘* Whatis one 
man’s meat is another man’s poison!” Setting aside all mere affectation, 
we find that one lady will rejoice in the odour of certain flowers, whilst 
the same odour would at once induce giddiness and fainting in another 
lady. We have known this in the case of sisters, which is rather a 
closer family alliance than that between the Cucumber and the Melon. 
Weare afraid when we inquireinto such causes we shall be forced to own 
“such things are, just because they are.” Our correspondent, however, 
has alluded to a fact well worth noting, that the leaves of Melon plants 
will not stand sulphur fumes so hot as Cucumbers will do. Both will 
suffer if the fumes are too hot. In the case of Melons the pipes should 
not be more than about 160° in temperature. If a little more, there 
should be a little air left on. When an injury takes place, it is very 
often from sun heat meeting the sulphur heat from the pipes before there 
is a sufficiency of air given. Cucumbers will suffer easily from the same 
cause, but they will stand fumes from 5° to 10° hotter than Melons. The 
more robust the plants, the more they will stand, but it is best to err on 
the safe side. In the case of Pears, after they have become about ripe, the 
flavour will be improved by their being placed for a few hours in a 
warmer place. There is nothing “fantastic” in the idea. Such fruit 
will not keep long afterwards. 


Variows ( Vicar).—To strike cuttings, raise seeds of tender plants, and 
grow Melons and Cucambers, you ought to be able to command a bottom 
‘heat of from 75° to 85°, and a top heat of from 65° to 70°. With a higher 
temperature, what you gain in time you will generally lose in robustness. 
We are not calculating on sun heat, when, if the sun is bright and a 
little air is given early, there may be a gradual rise of from 5° to 15°. 
For the house referred to—5 feet wide, 7 feet high at back, and 5 feet 9 
inches in front—two 4-inch pipes will do for bottom hest, but you will need 
as much for top heat. In a partly-sunk similar house we have two 38-inch 
pipes below, and two above, but they are not enough in cold weather 
without covering. The damp that is troubling you in the new pits, 
heated by two 3-inch pipes in a chamber below, with a platform of boards, 
on which the plants stand near the glass, may be owing to the damp 
remaining in the new walls, to a damp floor in the chamber beneath, to 
using rather too much water, nnd to letting it go from the boards to the floor 
to be raised again by evaporation. The simplest remedy would be to use 


For instance, you may insert single buds now in small pots in a | 
‘brisk hotbed, repot as soon as the little pot is full of roots, andcontinue | 


The size of | 


svould be better, and after that the plant would have done all it could, so | the sirloin. 


more heat in the pipes during the day, and give more air in consequence, 
and in mild weather tilting the sash a little in front as well as at the back. 
In frosty weather a very small quantity of air at the back will prevent 
the condensation of moisture on the glass, and thus prevent the moisture 
falling on the plants. In cold weather a covering on the outside of 
the glass at night would also remedy the evil. As palliatives, if the floor 
beneath the flue is wet, remove the wettest, and cover with very dry 
ashes, better still with lime slacked, and not too fresh. On the boards 
themselves place a thin layer of dry ashes, and give no more water than 
is absolutely necessary; and, vntil you get rid of the damp, lift the pots 
out that need watering, and replace after the extra moisture has drained 
away. Most likely some of these hints may be useful, but in a pit kept 
at from 4° to 45°, the simplest remedy would be more heat and air during 
the day, and less heat at night. 

Names oF Fruit (W. H. S.).—1, Beurré Diel; 2, Greenup’s Pippin; 
3, Ravelston Pippin; 4, Hunthouse. (7. R.).—1, Winter France Réal; 2, 
Spanish Bon Chrétien ; 3, Uvedale’s St. Germain; 4, Flemish Bon Chré- 
tien. We do not know the other Apples. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRCNICLE. 


THE POULTRY LORE OF 1870. 


We are thankfal that we have been spared another year to 
review the past as regards poultry, and truly gratefal in these 
days of war and bloodshed that we have to do only with things 
of peace. 

Although poultry plays but a small part, and enters for little 
in the food of a people, yet it is not without its importance, 
and if it were developed to the full scope of which it is capable, 
it would assume an importance which is hardly deemed possible. 
The contempt for cookery that makes a pound of meat in 
England do less for the support of a family than half the 
quantity does in France, and the Britannic craving for roasted 
and boiled masses, banish poultry from many tables where it 
might often appear as a bonne bouche; and the two chickens 
that now serve meagrely to dine three of a family of eight, 
wonld form the foundation of a savoury and wholesome dish 
sufficient to dine all. In the course of our remarks we shall 
haye to note a wonderful increase in many breeds, but we shall 
never get them large enough to supersede the leg of mutton or 
Oar purpose would be fully answered if we could 
by any labour or remarks of ours introduce them to tables 
where they are now only seen on very rare occasions, as 
weddings, christenings, and the like. 

We have no increase to note in Dorkings ; indeed, we do not 
see how it is possible we should have. They have almost 
attained their limit. Cocks of 12 lbs. and hens of from 8 to 
10, would almost justify us in thinking the breeders of these 
birds have been trying to qualify them for becoming joints. 
We haye been glad to see many new names among the prize- 
takers, and this not to the exclusion of time-honoured exhi- 
bitors, but as recipients of the extra prizes called for by the 
numbers of entries. 

There is no progress to call for special mention among the 
Spanish. They are not so numerous as they were some years 
since; and although, taken as a class, they are of superior 
average merit, yet we do not think the most distinguished 
among them are equal to those that held the same high rank 
ten yearsago. We should be sorry to see them decline. They 
have a rare merit, inasmuch as they may be kept in health 
where others would die, and their plumage enables them to 
live in towns without losing beauty. 

Oar old friends the Cochin-Chinas hold their own: Buff and 
Cinnamon, Grouse and Partridge, and the White. We have 
had most excellent birds of all these commonly shown in 1870. 
If we were asked to name the colour in which there has been 
most progress, we should be disposed to give the palm to the 
Grouse. They have been largely exhibited at all the leading 
shows, but are seldom found at the purely agricultural meetings. 
They are kept by dwellers in towns, and at the suburban villas, 
but they find no favour with the farming interest. 

Brahmas now form one of the largest classes, so large, in- 
deed, that it has been necessary to divide them; and instead 
of the one or two pens of Light birds seeming out of place 
among their Dark brethren, they form a large item in every 
show. There has been wonderful progress in these birds; im- 
mense weight and perfect plumage are attained. Those who 
are familiar with our ideas know we are not lovers of crosses ; 
but if any cross is useful, we believe it is one between the 
Dorkings and Brahmas. The latter take somewhat from the 
delicacy of the flesh of the former, but make ample amends 
by the strength of constitution they infuse. 

We have been very pleased to see an increase in the entries 


January 5, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


15 


of Polands, the birds composing them being of high mevit. 
They are great ornamenis to a show. 

The Hamburghs in their different classes have sustained 
their old reputation. The Capulets snd Montagues of the 
Spangled, represented in the feuds of hen tails and full tails, 
have ceased the wordy war of bygone days and adopted the 
decisions of judges; a hen tail is now never seen. The pen- 
cilling of the Golden is very superior to that of the Silver, and 
a desideratum appears accomplished, inasmuch as in many 
pens we have seen the tails as well pencilled as any other part 
of the body. We think the Golden birds of both breeds have 
been shown as nearly perfection as is possible, and certainly 
superior to the Silver. The recent introduction of classes for 
Black birds of this breed has added a beautiful variety to our 
exhibitions. The glossy black plumage, the bright red comb, 
aud the pure white deaf ear, form a striking contrast. 

Black and Brown Red Game run a neck-and-neck race. 
‘When looking at the Black we award them the palm, but when 
we come to the Browns we reverse our decision. It is certain 
both are nearly perfect. Old cockers sometimes grumble, and 
say “the birds of the present day are too leggy.” The other 
Gamo classes make little progress, and we are sorry to seea 
falling-off in the Duckwings, We know no more beautiful 
bird in our eyes than the Duckwing Game cock. 

Bat very few years since the French breeds showed an 
occasional pen in the Variety class. Then there were two; 
then more; and at last an experiment was tried by offering 
prizes for any French breeds; then they were divided, and 
now the C:éve-Cceurs and Hondans form large classes. 
‘La Fiéche have been failures. Those who appreciate large 


eggs and plenty of them, will like the Créve-Cceurs; those who | 
care not so much for large eggs, but want hardy fowls, will like | 
We can say little in favour of the La Fléche; | 


the Houdans. 
they are good for the table, they Jay large eggs, but they lack 
constitution, or the climate here is unsuitable to them; they 
are well in the morning, and at night, without any visible 
reason, they are at death’s door. 

Malays, once so popular. have now few admirers, if we may 
jadge from their entries. The beautiful Sebrights seem losing 
ground. Some one should step in to the rescue; they are far 
too beautiful to be allowed to lose merit, and, being a composite 
breed, they 20 back if not renewed from time to time. Tho 
Blacks and Whites are hardly shown so good as they used to 
be. The Game have irresistible charms for Bantam-breeders. 
They are bred to high perfection, and their entries are su 
ciently numerous to justify an increase in the number of 
prizes offered for them. Tho quaint Japanese Bantam is ex- 
hibited in considerable numbers. They are familiar little 
creatures, and from their attachment to man, would seem to 
be among fowls like the Robin among birds. While speaking 
of Bantams, it would be unjust not to mention the beautiful 
Baff Cochin Bantams that have been seen at some of the 
shows during the past year. 

In every way the Aylesbury Dacks have quailed before the 
Rouens; their numbers have been fewer, and their weights 
Jess. The Rouens now form the largest class. The Black 
Buenos Ayreans have shown well, but will still bear reducing 
in size. A pair of Mandarins or Carolinas caused a sensation 
a few years since, but they are now shown by dozens. 

Geese go on increasing. The Whites hold their own in 
weight, bat the Toulouse are far more numerous. In both 
elasses birds of 28 lbs. each are required for first-prizetakers— 
no mean success, when we consider that a few years ago 9 lbs. 
were the average, and 14 lbs. a marvel. Turkey cocks have 
been shown 30 bs. in weight, young birds of the year more 
than 20, and young hens of 15 lbs. each. 

These are some of the results of careful breeding, and they 
are not mean ones. When we are sufficiently advanced to 
have correct statistics of poultry sold for food, those who now 
speak lightly of it will alter their opinions, It may safely be 
said that of late years, since the poultry movement took place, 
fowls, Geese, Turkeys, and Ducks have increased nearly a 
third in weight. If we could ascertain the numbers that are 
sent to market, and thereby publish the extra amount of food 
produced only by choosing the breeds adapted to the places 
where they are to be kept, and by proper and judicious feeding, 
it would astonish many, by showing the enormous increase in 
the delicate food for which we are indebted to the poultry-yard. 

The progress has not been confined to this one part of the 
question. In the early days roup was the bane of the breeder. 
Two or three days’ confinement, a fortnight’s damp cold 
weather, or a prevalence of east wind caused it to appear. Birds 


The | 


were bred in-and-in, they were little cared for, and they took 
their revenge by their proneness to catch any disorder from 
which a few of the yard were suffering. At shows a good part 
of a class was often removed because the fowls composing the 
pens were diseased. It was never safe to turn down fowls that 
had been to a show till they had performed quarantine. Now 
show after show may be visited without seeing a diseased bird. 
It is not only at shows this is observed, but its happy effect is 
seen in every yard and run. The result has been attained 
without expense. It is the reward of more careful breeding 
and of some painstaking. ‘Those who are close observers have 
seen with much interest the ease with which the requirements 
of judges have been carried out. The hen-tailed cocks of 
Hamburghs, the combs and gills of Polands, the drooping combs 
of Spanish, and many other such defects are now never met 
with. 

When we come to the question of eggs we again lament the 
want of statistics. Hundreds of millions are consumed every 
year, many of them imported. Notwithstanding the war, the 
number of eggs, more than 22 millions, imported from France 
last- November, was about the same number as imported in 
that raonth of 1869. In every way the production of eggs is 
too little cared for in England. 

We have concluded our poultry lore, but gratitude compels 
us to say a few words of ourselves. We profess, as poultry 


| chroniclers, to hold an impartial balance on all matters con- 


nected with the subject. -We deprecate anything like person- 
ality, and while we give an outspoken opinion on every ques- 
tion that comes before us, we can safely say we never knowingly 
print a line that shall cause pain. We have our reward in an 
ineredsed and increasing circulation, and in the confidence of 
our readers. We thank them forit. We pledge ourselves to 
continne a line of conduct consonant at once with our feelings, 
and productive of our readers’ approval. We thank our sub- 
scribers, readers, and contributors, and we heartily wish them - 
all 
A Happy anp Prosperous New Year. 


THE ANY VARIETY CLASS. 
I quite concur with the remarks of ‘ Y. B. A. Z.,” and think 
that the ‘‘ Any other variety”? classes should have awarded not 
less than six prizes to them, as such classes generally bring 


| together many varieties of fowls that are seldom seen, and 


birds of superior merit. When four and even six varieties are 
brought together, how can a judge do jastice to the whole if 
only two or three prizes are given ? 

“Y.B. A. Z.” says that Malays ought to have a class to 
themselves at all established shows, and so I think, as it is not 


| fair to see Malays classed against Black Hamburghs, Saltans, 


and Polands. At the Durham Show a pen of Malays was not 
even commended, and this pen had taken honours at Birming- 
ham three times. The first prize went to Black Hamburghs; 
the second to a pen of Malays—a pen, I understand, which 
gained prizes at Birmingham and the Crystal Palace.—R. D. 


CARBOLIC ACID AND INSECT VERMIN. 


Tue Canadian Poultry Chronicle for December contains the 
following valuable remarks on this subject, which I know will 
be useful to many readers here :— ’ 

‘‘ All amateurs and poultry-breeders are but too well aware 
that parasites are the pests of poultry honses, more especially 
in towns and cities, where poultry are kept within confined 
limits. Without, as the owner thinks, any real cause, the 
fowls begin to droop and look sickly, and, after a little, one by 
one die off. He then becomes alarmed; examines them, and 
finds them covered with parasites; he looks into his fowl house 
and examines the cracks and chinks in the boards, and finds 
them filled with insects, living insects. He is astonished; he 
cannot account for it; and then the question arises in his 
mind, ‘How can I get rid of them?’ Scores of times within 
the last few months has this question been asked of us, and 
our answer invariably has been, Use carbolic acid. 

“But how to use it is a matter of importance. There can be 
no doubt about its efficacy, but it becomes everyone to exercise 
care in handling it. The acid is sold by all druggists in its 
crystalline and liquid form. In crystals, it dissolves in twenty 
times its weight of water—that is, 1 oz. of the crystals requires 
20 ozs. of water to dissolve them. Thus dissolved, it is entirely 
too strong for any ordinary use. Dr. Emerson gives recipes 
for preparing this powder for disinfecting and other purposes. 


16 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 5, 1871. 


As a whitewash for walls, for protection against insects, bugs, 
&c., he says, ‘ Put 3 ozs. of carbolic acid into 12 quarts of lime- 
water or whitewash.’ Whitewash the walls of the poultry 
house well with this wash, and no more living parasites will be 
seen; their death is inevitable. A weak solution may be made 
to wash fowls in: one part of the acid to sixty parts of warm 
water; let it cool, then dip the fowls in it until the feathers 
become thoroughly wet and the solution reaches all parts of 
the body. Afterwards place the fowls on clean dry straw, where 
the sun will reach them, until they are dry.” 

Imay add to the foregoing that the most handy and useful 
thing I know of to have about the poultry yard is carbolate of 
lime. It is a powerful and at the same time pleasant dis- 
infectant, whilst it will also answer most purposes in the way 
of destroying insects, if dusted liberally against the walls or 
other infested parts. Being a powder, it may also be dusted 
amongst the straw in the nests, and in other places where a 
liquid cannot be used; though in very bad cases the more 
searching wash above given will be necessary. The price in 
most towns is about 4d. per pound, and a regular sprinkling on 
the floors of the houses, I can say from experience, adds greatly 
to the comfort of all concerned.—L. Wuicur. 


EXHIBITION GAME COCKS. 


I most fully concur in the remarks on Game fowls in your 
last number by your correspondent ‘‘ YorxsHinu.” Some of 
the specimens of the Brown Reds shown at many exhibitions 
really put one in mind, so to speak, of a cross between ‘‘a 
Malay and an Ostrich,” if such a cross were possible. The 
brassy or straw-coloured Brown Reds, especially, that I have 
seen at exhibitions, were very poor things as Game cocks, stand- 
ing in their pens, with tails carried horizontally, and hiding 
their heads in the farthest corners of the pen without crowing 
at all. Ihave, however, seen some excellent cockers’ birds of 
this colour, called in some places brass cocks. Those birds I 
allude to were bred from good dark-legged Brown Red cocks 
put to good yellow-legged Duckwing hens, and were great favour- 
ites and very quick birds. Our judges of Game fowls certainly 
keep up the wrong type, in the exhibition Brown Reds more 


especially, though I do not like a full-feathered bird resembling | 


a farmyard Game cock.—Nrwmarker. 


BRISTOL AND CLIFTON POULTRY SHOW. 


Tue total entries for this Show, the judging of which takes 
place to-day, are 1306, which, by an extraordinary coincidence, 
are just one more thanlast year. From information which has 
reached us we are able to say that in many of the classes there 
will be the best show of the season. Partly in consequence of 
the retarding influence of the dry season many of the finest 
chickens have not been previously ready for exhibition, and in 
nearly all the classes there are entries, from eminent exhibitors, 
of first-rate birds never before shown. 

The Spanish as usual are in great force, the cockerels num- 
bering thirty-three and the pullets twenty-three entries. We 
hear, also, that a better show of Buff Cochins than has yet been 
seen this year is anticipated. But the most remarkable classes 
will be the Dark Brahmas, which in numbers have beaten every 
other breed. ‘The cockerel class contains the extraordinary 
number of forty-five entries, and the others are in proportion. 

With the exception of Bantams and Pigeons, the pens at this 
Show will be, as usual, arranged in sivgle tier, while for light 
the exhibition hall has perhaps no equal. Altogether, both to 
the experienced and the tyro, this Show will offer opportunities 

and advantages for the real study of their pet hobbies which 
have not previously offered during the present season, and 
which none who can enjoy should lose sight of. 


THE FLYING OR SKY TUMBLER. 


Two peculiarities are omitted in the description of this class 
of Tumbler in your Journal of December 29th, and which the 
Birmingham Columbarian Society will accept, perhaps, from 
anamateur. I refer to the occurrence of clear-legged and odd- 
eyed birds (a hazel anda pearl eye), in the Birmingham Mufted 
Tumbler broods from parent birds both muffed in legs, and 
with pearl or silver eyes, and vice versd—i.c., mufted-legged 
and silver-eyed brood from clear-legged and odd-eyed parentage. 
So it occurs ia my own flight of about a score of these mufted 
Tumblers had from Birmingham, and I presume the occur- 
rence is not an exception. 


Allusion is made, in the description I mention, to a Dutch 
import of this variety of Tumbler, and, I think, very appro- 
priately ; for doubtless the Birmingham Roller or Tumbler is 
& cross between our own old English and the European Dutch 
or German feather-legged Tumbler, ‘‘improved upon,” cer- 
tainly, by English blood. Hence the occasional clear leg ap- 
pears ; the odd eyes dating back, however, I cannot guess 
whence, save of hazel-eyed, Bald, or Magpie ancestry. Can the 
Birmingham Columbarian Society inform us further upon the 
features I have noticed ? 

As additional testimony to the cross suggested, the Birming- 
ham Tumblers derive, I infer, their high or sky-flying propen- 
sity from our English blood, and their rolling properties from 
the continental admixture. 

What ‘Young England” fancies is our own dainty, fairy 
little Sky Tumbler, innocent of feathered legs, red as coral, with 
eyes of transparent pearl and studded jet, and in all colours, 
from those of the harlequin Almond, ermine Motile, and varied 
Splash, to the sombre selfs—red, black, yellow, silver, drab, 
and blue—birds not heavier than a Starling, and whose home 
appears to be in cloudland or on the roof alike, as caprice or 
nature prompts.—RrapeEr. 


INQUIRY. 


I ADVERTISED in your Journal some Call Ducks, and amongst 
other applications received one from W. George & Co., poultry 
merchants, 42, Great Wild Street, Covent Garden, for four 
pairs, and another from George White, 147, Culford Road, N., 
for six couple. I replied, giving a reference to a tradesman in 
London, and requesting post-ofiice order before forwarding the 
birds. I have heard nothing further. Does any reader of this 
Journal know them ?—J. N. Preston. 


MANCHESTER POULTRY AND PIGEON SHOW. 
(From two Correspondents.) 

Tue tenth and most successful poultry and Pigeon Show ever held 
in Manchester took place on the 30th and 31st of December. On 
both days the attendance of visitors was very great, and, to some 
extent, will recoup the spirited proprietors for the loss they must have 
sustained last year, when, if we remember aright, it rained nearly all 
the time of the Show. The arrangements were excellent, and if any 
fault could be found, we thought it would have been much better, both 
for the poultry and Pigeons, had the magnificent rooms been better 
heated. 

Old Coloured Dorking cocks were rather a poor class, nearly all 
bad in feet or toes, yet there were several very large birds amongst 
them. The hens were very good in quality, but not numerous. The 
cockerels were a very good class, which was well filled. The class for 
Coloured pullets consisted of a remarkably good lot of birds. Silver- 
Grey Dorkings were not good. All the Spanish classes were very good, 
but many of the birds showed signs of suffering from the severe 
weather ; in tact, a few were so affected with the frost, that they would 
have been far better at home. ‘The first-prize hens were claimed at 
£15 immediately the Show opened. The Cochin classes were all re- 
markably fine, though some really good birds appeared quite out of 
condition from being over-exhibited. The first-prize pair of Buff 
pullets were in beautiful condition. The Dark Brahmas were both 
remarkably good classes, but, as in the Cochins, a few of the best 
birds were in bad condition. Light Brahmas were not good. Poland 
cocks were excellent, and a few of the hens were as good as could be 
wished for. The Game classes were the best by far in quality I have 
seen this season. All the classes were remarkably good and well filled. 

Ducks, Geese, and Turkeys, as may be seen by the prize list, were 
wonderful. 

In Hamburghs the Spangled were good, and very far better than the 
Pencilled. Lantams were worth a long journey to see, and no class 
in the Show was more crowded than the Game Bantams. 


PIGEONS. 


In the Pouter classes, unfortunately for Mr. Gamon, of Chester, 
his four fine birds were entered in wrong classes, otherwise we feel 
sure some of them would have been in the prize list; and, again, a 
pair of his splendid Yellow Dragoons were passed over, owing to the 
hen bird being marked, she haying a piece of string tied round one of 
her legs. 

There were 307 entries of Pigeons, and representatives from most 
of our best lofts. Many pairs of Pigeons arrived too late for compe- 
tition, we believe the whole of those belonging to Mr. Van Haans- 
bergen and Mr. Sharp, of Johnstone. The judgment appeared to 
give almost universal satisfaction, and we never heard fewer com- 
plaints, although a few unsuccessful exhibitors, as usual, attempted to 
convince novices their unnoticed pens were better than the best. 

The Pouters were good; Black Carrier cocks excellent, numbering 
fourteen pens, the winning birds being placed the same as at Birming- 
ham Show. Black Carrier hens were very good. Had pen 1043 been 


January 5, 1871. ] 


owned by an artist, it would have taken the first prize. Dun cocks we 
thought were a poor lot, but the hens made up for them ; what should 
have been Blue Carriers were mostly slate-coloured, but they are im- 
proving. The Yellow Dragoons were all good, the first prize being 
won by, we are told, the same pair that took the silver cups at the 
Crystal Palace and Bingley Shows. In ‘‘Any other Coloured Dra- 
goons,” the most magnificent pair of Reds we have seen for many 
years deservedly were first. We were informed they were bred by the 
London fancier who bred the first-prize Yellows. Blues were second. 
All the birds in the class were good, and very properly highly com- 
mended. 

There were twenty-eight entries of Antwerps, but neither Judges 
nor exhibitors appear to know what they want. The first prize went 
to a pair of hard-coloured, useful-looking Blue-chequered, and were 
claimed for £5; the second-prize birds were Meally-ash. Jacobins, 
excepting those which took the first prize, were only moderate. The 
second-prize pair we took for two cocks. What has become of all the 
good Jacobin fanciers? Mr. Firth was first and second in Barbs 
with, perhaps, two of the best pairs in England, the first-prize cock 
being a wonder. 

There was a lot of good Blue (or should-be Blue) and also White 
Fantails, but many of the Whites appeared to be suttering from over- 
showing. Almond Tumblers were very good, also the Beards, Balds, 
and Any yariety of Tumblers. The Nuns, the poor Nuns! the whole 


class were disqualified for over-trimming ; it is but just to Mr. Graham 


and Mr. Haansbergen to say that they were not included, their birds 
not being sent, or had not arrived. The two prize pairs of Magpies 
were charming. Turbits were also very good, particularly the first- 
prize pair; but here, again, pens 1221 and 1224 were disqualified for 
being so badly oiled. 

Swallows and Archangels were fair. English Owls were very good, 
and many pens reminded us of the time when foreign ones were not 
known at our shows. The improvement in this breed has been very 
marked the last few years. The foreign Owls were very good. The 
first-prize Runts weighed 4 Ibs. 12 ozs. 

The whole class of Trumpeters was splendid; first Black, second a 
beautiful pair of Whites. The birds in the Any variety class were 
all pretty. We very much admired a pair of Dutch Pouters shown by 
Mr. Tegetmeier. 


Dorxtnes (Coloured, except Silver-Grey). — Cock. —1, J. White, Warlaby. 
2, D. Parsons, Cuerden, Preston. 8, Admiral W. Hornby, Knowsley. hc, R. D. 
Holt, Orrest Head, Windermere. ¢, Mrs. F. S. Arkwright, Sutton Scarsdale, 
Chesterfield; S. H. Stott, Quarry Hill, Rochdale. 

Dorxrnes (Coloured, except Silver-Grey)—Hens.—l, Mrs. F. S. Arkwright. 
2,3. White. 3, Admiral W. Hornby. hc, T. Briden, Earby, Skipton; Hon. H. 
W. Fitzwilliam, Wentworth Woodhouse; Henry Lingwood, Barking, Need- 
ham Market; W. W. Rutilidge, Shortend, Kendal. 

Dorxines (Coloured, except Silver-Grey).—Cockerel.—1, Mrs. E. Wheatley, 
Ingatestone. 2, Mrs. T. W.L. Hind, Kendal. 3, H. Pickles, jun., Earby. he, T. 
Briden ; Miss Davies, Chester (2); R. D. Holt; J. Longland, Grendon, Nerth- 
ampton; Rev. F. Taylor, Kirkandrews Rectory, Longton; J. White (2). c, Mrs. 
F.S. Arkwright ; H. Lingwood, Barking, Needham Market. 

Dorxrincs (Coloured, except Silver-Grey).—Pullets. —1, Mys. E. Wheatley. 
2, Mrs. F. S. Arkwright. 8, W. H. King, Sandficld, Rochdale. he. Rev. E. 
Bartrum, Great Berkhampstead; Mrs. F. S. Arkwright; Miss Davies; Miss 
Fairhurst, Ormskirk; T, L. Jackson, Bush of Ewes, Langholm; J. Longland 
W. Harvey, Shefiield. b 

DorxrnGs (Silver-Grey)—Cock.—1, T. L. Jackson. 2, Hon. H. W. Fitz- 
william. 8, Hon. J. Massey, Limerick. 

Dorxrnes (Silver-Grey)—Hens oy Pullets.—1, R. D. Holt. 2, J. Longland. 
Sila Nilo Ruttlidge. he, T. L. Jackson; R. Smalley, Lancaster. c, Rev. J. F. 

ewton. 

DorxtnGs (Rose-combed or Any other variety)—l, Miss Fairhurst. 2, D. 
Parsons. 8, Miss E. Williams, Henllys Berriew. c, Countess of Aylesford, 
Leamington Spa. 

SpanisH. — Cock.—1, H. Lane, Bristol. 2, C. W. Brierley, Middleton. 
he, Burch & Boulter, Sheftield ; Hon. Miss D. Pennant, Penrhyn Castle, Bangor 
). ¢,J.Thresh; R. Teebay, Fulwood, Preston. 

SpanrsH.—Hens.—1, R. Teebay. 2,H.Lane. 3,J.Thresh, Bradford. hc, Miss 
E. Beldon, Goitstock, Bingley; Burch & Boulter; F. & C. Haworth, Newfield, 
Haslingden. c¢c, Hon. Miss D. Pennant. 

Spanisa.—Cockerel—l, C. W. Brierley. 2, Hon. Miss D. Pennant. 8, H. 
Tane. fc, W.R. Bull; R. Davis; F. & C. Haworth; Hon. Miss D. Pennant; J. 
eeebs Cc. W. Brierley. ¢c, Burch & Boulter; J. Mansell, Longton, Stafford- 
shire. 

Spanrtsu.— Pullets.—1, W. R. Bull. 2, Hon. Miss D. Pennant. 8, R. Teebay. 
Ac, H. Lane; J. Thresh. 

Cocuin-Cuina (Cinnamon and Buff).—Cock.—l, H. Yardley, Birmingham. 2, FB. 
‘Thomas, Barlow Moor, Didsbury. 3, T. Stretch, Ormskirk. hc, W. A. Burnell, 
Honaett (2); W. A. Taylor, Manchester; R. White. c, N. Dawson, Beverley; 

. Sandy. 

Cocnin-Cuina (Cinnamon and Buff)—Hens.—1, W. A. Burnell. 2, W. A. 
Taylor. 3, W. Sandy, Ratcliffe-on-Trent. | he. C. Felton, Birmingham. 

Cocuin-Cuina (Cinnamon and Buff).— Pullets.—1, J. Sichel, Timperley. 
2, Henry Lingwood. hc, T. Bracegirdle, Sale, Manchester; Henry Lingwcood, 
Barking, Needham Market; T. Stretch; W. Sandy. 

Cocury-Cuina (Brown and Partridge-feathered)—Cock.—1, T. Stretch. 2, E. 
Leech, Rochdale. 8, EB. Tudman, Whitchurch, Salop. lic, Mrs. R. White, 
Sheffield; J. A. Taylor. c, Furness & Sudall, Haslingden. 

Cocurn-Curna (Brown and Partridge-feathered).— Hens.—1, J. A. Taylor, Man- 
chester. 2, R. B. Wood, Uttoxeter. hc, T. Stretch; E. Tudman. 

Cocurin-Curna (Brown and Partridge-feathered).—Pullets—1, J. A. Taylor. 
2and 3, H. Crossley, Broomfield, Halitax. hc, T. Stretch; P. H. Jones, Fulham. 
¢, Horace Lingwood, Creeting; J. Palmer. 

Cocutn-Cutna (White).—Cock.—1, R. Smalley. 2. J.Sichel. he, H. Yardley. 

Cecuin-Cuina (White).— Hens or Pullets—1, R. Smalley, 2, J.Sichel. c, F. 
and C. Haworth. 

Branma Poorra (Dark).—Cock.—1, Hon. Mrs. A.B. Hamilton, Woburn. 2,J. 
H. Dawes, Birmingham. 3..J.S. Tainton, Gloucester. hc, W. Hargreaves, 
Bacup; Horace Lingwood; Hon. Miss D. Pennant (2); W. Whiteley, Sheftiela. 
o,T. ¥. Ansdell, St. Helen’s; J. H. Dawes. 

BranMma Poorra (Dark).—Hens or Pullets.—1, E. Leech. 2, H. Lacy, Hebden 
Bridge. 8, Mvs. A. Hurt, Alderwasley. he, T. i. Ansdell; Mrs, A. Hurt; H. B, 
Morrell, Caemawr, Clyro: Hon. Miss D. Pennant; B. Ryder, Hyde; J. Sichel; 
J. Watts, King’s Heath, Birmingham; W. Whiteley. ce, H.P. Moor, Chippen: 
ham; H. B. Morrell (2); W. Whiteley. 

BrauMa Pootra (Light).—Cock.—l, W. T. Storer, Brewood, Stafford. 2, A.0- 
Worthington, Burton-on-Trent. 8, F. Crook, Forest Hill. hie, J. Pares, Post- 
ford, Guildford. c, H. Dowsstt, Pleshey, Chelmsford. 


JOURNAL, OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


17 


Brana Pootra (Light).—Hens or Pullsts.—1, J. R. Rodbard, Wrington, 
Bristol. 2, F. Crook. 8, A. O. Worthington. hc, H. Dowsett; J. Paves; W. 
Whiteley. 

Ponanps (Any variety).— Coek.—1l and 3, G_C. Adkins, Lightwoods, Birmine 
ham. 2, W. Harvey. hc, Miss £.Beldon; W. Gamon, Chester; J. S. Senior ; 
P. H. Jones. 

Pouanps (Any variety).—Hens or Pullels.—1, G. C. Adkins. 2, Miss E. Beldon. 
3, T. Wakefield, Golborne, Newton-le-Willows. he, W. Harvey. 

CreEve-Ceur—l, W. O. Quibel!l, Newark. 2andc, C. H. Smith, Ratcliffe-on- 
Trent. 5, Miss E. Beldon. he, W. Boutcher, Notting Hill. 

Hovupans.—l, R.B. Wood. 2, W. O. Quibell. 3, J. Sichel. 

Game (Black-breasted Reds).—Cock.—1, S. Beighton, Farnsfield, Southwell. 
2, E. C. Gilbert, Penkridge. 5, T. Mason, Green Ayre, Lancaster. he, C. 
MS Whitwell, Chesterfield; W. H. Stagg, Netheravon, Marlborough. 
c. J. Frith. 

Game (Black-breasted Reds).—Hens,—1, C. Chaloner. 2,J. Douglas, Clumber. 
3, J. Forsyth, Wolverhampton. hic, T. P. Lyon, Knotty Ash, Liverpool. c, G. 
Bagnall, Draycott, Cheadle. 

Game (Black-breasted Reds).—Cochkerel.—1, S. Beighton. 2, J. Douglas. 
8, W. Boyes. Beverley, he, B. Bell; C. Chaloner; G. Bagnall; J. Mason; W. 


H. Stage. th, Chatsworth. 

easted Reds).—Pullet.—l, W. Dunning, Newport, Salop. 2, J. 
ster. 8, W. J. Pope, Biggleswade. he, T. Bottomley, Sheli, 
Halitax; C. Chaloner; D. Harley, Edinburgh: E. Mann. Walltiold Stand, 
Manche ers W. J. Pope; G. Bagnall. c, J. Mashiter, Ulverstone; C. W. 
erierley. 

Game (Brown and other Reds, except Black-breasted).—Cock.—1, J. Bowness, 
Newchurch. 2, C0. W. Brierley. 8,J. Wood, Wigan. hc, A. Haslam, Hindley, 
Wigan; Golley & Willet, Nantwich. 

Game (Brown and other Reds, except Black-breasted).— Hen.—l, C. W. 
Brierley. 2, J. Wood. 3, F. Sales, Crowle. fic, B. Consterdine, Littleborough ; 
C. W. Brierley. 

Game (Brown and other Reds, except Black-breasted).—Cockerel._1, J. Wood. 
2, W. Dunning. 8, S. Matthew. Stowmarket. hc, W. Grice, Bootle; E. Mann 
(2); W. Sowerbutts, Nantwich; C. W. Brierley; Golley & Willett. c, J. 
Mashiter; T, Statter, Stand, Manchester. 

Brown and other Reds, except Black-breasted).—Pullet.—l and 3, C. 
- y. 2, W. Boulton, Dalton-in-Furness. he, T. Burgess, Burleydam ; 
J. Mashiter; S. Matthew; W. Sowerbutts. c, T. Statter; J. Bowness. 

Game (Duckwings, and other Greys and Blues).—Cock.—1, J. Halsall. 2, C. 
Chaloner. 8, S. Matthew. he, C. W. Brierley; W. Bc ¢.J. Frith. 

Game (Duckwings, and other Greys and Blues).—Cockerel.—l, 5S. Matthew. 
2, C. Travice, Thurgvland, Sheffield. 3, J. Frith. he, W. Dunning. 

Game (Duckwings, and other Greys and Blues).—Hen or Pullet.—, F. Sales. 
2, E. Bell, Burton-on-Trent. he, D. Harley; C. W. Brierley. y 

Gamer (Any other variety)—Cock.—l and 2, J. Sunderland, Halifax. c, W. 
Church, Nantwich. 

Gamer (Any other variety).—Hen.—l, C. W. Brierley. 2. J.Fritn. he, C. W. 
Brierley; R. & H. Walker, Gomersall. c, W. Johnson, Stanley, Liverpool. 

Ducks (Rouen).—Drake.—1 and 2, T. Statter. 3, C. P. Ackers, Abram, Wigan. 
he, T. Burns, Abram, Wigan (3); Miss Davies (3); W. Evans, Prescot; W. 
Gamon; S.H. Stott; T. Taylor, Kendal. : 

Ducks (Rouen).—Dueks.—l, J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury. 2, T. Statter. 3, C. P. 
Ackers. he, T. Burns; W. Evans; S. H. Stott; H. B. Smith, Broughton, 
Preston; T. Statter; J. Wood; T. Wakefield. 

Duexs (White Aylesbury).—l, B. Leech. 2, Mra. M. Seamons, Hartwell, 
Aylesbury. 8,J.K. Fowler. hc, Mrs. M. Seamons; E. Leech. i 

Ducks (Black East Indian).—1, S, Burn, Whitby. 2, Rey. W. Serjeantson, 
Acton Burnell. he, S. Burn. e, H. B. Smith. b 

ORNAMENTAL WaTERFOWL.—1 and 2, J. Jennison & Co., Zoological Gardens, 
Manchester (2) (Vidnata Whistling Ducks and Carolinas). 38, T. Haslam 
(Shovellers). le, C. N. Baker, Chelsea ; A.B. Smith (2) (Shield and Carolinas) ; 
C. W. Brierley; M. Leno, Markyate Street (Mandarins); J. Goodwin, West 
Gorton (Mandarins); J. Jennison & Co. (3) (Mandarins, Teal, and Tufted 
Divers). ¢, C. N. Baker (2); J. Knott, Kirmanshulme, Manchester (Pochards) ; 
M. Leno (Carolina T. Hastam (Brown Chinese Geese). 

GEESE (White).—Gander—1 and 2, EB. Leech (30 1b. 9+ ozs. and 80 lbs. 102.). 
3, Tey Gs Hustler, Stillingfleet Vicarage, York (29 lbs. 10 ozs.). he, T. Statter, 
jun. (2). 

GEESE (White).—Geese.—l, E. Leech (571b.4 02.) 2, Rev. G. Hustler (49 1b. 
14 oz.). 8, J. & W. Rostron, Levenshulme, Manchester (46 Ib). le, T. Statter, jun. 

GrrsE (Grey and Mottled).—Gander.—1, Mrs. M. Seamons (33 Ib, 6 02.). 
Rs J. a Fowler (521b.). 3, E. Leech (291b. 4.0z.). he, J. Lycett, Stafford; E. 

eech. 

GeEsE (Grey and Mottled).—Geese.—1, W. Tippler, Chelmsford (411b.). 2, E. 
Leech (411b). 3, H. Crossley (291b.). he, J. Lycett ; Rev. G. Hustler. 

TurKEYs.—Cock.—l, F. Lythall, Banbury (341b. 15ozs.). 2a0d38, E. Leech 
(321b. 702. and 321b. 6 oz.) he, J. Kershaw, Heywood, Manchester; G. R. 
Pearson, Witham Common, Grantham; Rev. N. J. Ridley, Newbury. Q 

Turkrys.—Hens.—l, B. Leech ($71b.20z.). 2, IF’. B. Rawson. Thorpe, Halifax 
(36 1b. 11 oz.)._ 8, Rev. N. J. Ridley (291b. 14 0z.). hc, Mrs. J. Mayhew, Great 
Baddow; E. Leech; G. R. Pearson. 

Extra Stock (Any variety).—1, Furness & Sudall (Cuckoo Cochins). 2, Hon. 
H. W. Fitzwilliam, Wentworth Woodhouse (La Fiéche). he, W. A. Hyde, Ash- 
ton-under-Lyne (Japanese Silkies); J. Kitchen, Meniscowles, Blackburn (An- 
conas); Mrs P. Taate, Plunket, Ireland (Black Cochins). A 

Hampurcus (Black).—Cock.—1l, T. Walker, jun. 2, Rey. W. Serjeantson. 
8, Stuttard & Heyes, Accrington. hc, J.A.Taylor. c, Mason & Walker, Denton, 
Manchester; Rev. W. Serjeantson. ii 

Haneurcus (Black).—Hens or Pullets—1 and 3, T. Walker, jun., Denton. 
2, G. Lingard, jun. he, H. Beldon, Goitstock, Bingley; E. Brierley; J. Lan- 
cashire, Chadderton; N. Marlor; Mason & Walker; Rev. W. Serjeantson. 

Hameureus (Golden-spangled).—Cock.—1 and 2, J. Buckley, Taunton, Ash- 
ton-under-Lyne. 3, J. Ogden, Hollinwood. c, H. Pickles, jun.; Miss C. E. 
Palmer, Lighthorn, Warwick; Duke of Sutherland, Trentham. 

Hampureus (Golden-spangled).—Hens or Pullets.—1, Chadderton & Scholes. 
2, J. Ogden. 3, N. Marlor, Denton. he, J. Buckley; W. McMellon, West 
Glossop; J. Ogden. 

Hampurcus (Silver-spangled).—Cock.—l, Ashton & Booth, Mottram. 2, H. 
Beldon. 3, Miss &. Browne, Chardleigh Green, Chard. hc, Ashton & Booth; - 
J. Fielding, Newehurch ; J. Howe, Denton. 

Hampouraus (Silver-spangled).—Hens or Pullets.—1, Ashton & Booth. 2, A. 
Beldon. 3,J.Fieldins. jc, J. Howe; J. Lancashire; D. Lord, Stacksteads, 
Manchester ; W. McMellon. 

Haspurcus (Golden-pencilled).—Cock.—1, Duke of Sutherland. 2, Burch 
and Boulter. 3,H.Beldon. he, S. Burn; W. Schofield, Heywood, Manchester; 
T. Wrigley, jun., Tonge, Middleton. i a 

HAMBURGHS (Golden-penculed) Hens or Pullets.—1, Burch & Boulter. 2, T. 
Wrigley, jun. he, H.Beldon; H. Pickles, jun. 

eae (Silver pe na ea eC a H.Beldon. 2, Duke of Sutherland. 
ec, F. & C. Haworth; H. Pickles, jun. . BONG 

"A AMBURGHS (Silver-pencilled).—Hens or Pullets—1, H. Pickles, jun. 2, Duke 
of Sutherland. 

Game Banvams (Black-breasted Reds).—Cock.—1, J. Blamires, Great Horton. 
9,1. Sharples. 3, J. Bamber, Accrington. 4, Williams & Straw, Farnsfield, 
Southwell. hic, J.Blamires; H. J. Edge, Basford, Notts; G. Hall, Kendal; B. 
Hudson, Ulverston (2); T.C. & E.Newhitt; Stuttard & Heyes; T. Sharples, 
Rawtenstall; W. Adams, Ipswich. c¢, J. Howe; R. Swift, Southwell. 

Gaur Bantams (Black-breasted Reds).—Hens or Pullets.—1, G, Daft.jun., 
Halloughton, Southwell. 2, J. W. Morris, Rochdale. 3, 1. Sharples. he, J. 
Grosland, jun., Wakefield; R. H, Flint, Warley Town, Sowerby Bridge; G. 
Hall; J. W. Morris; R. Swift. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 5, 1871. 


$ (Brown-breasted Reds).—Cochk.—1, T. C. GE. Newbitt. 2, W. 
almer, Longford, Coventry. 

s (Brown-breasted Reds).—Hens or Pullets.—1, J. Palmer. 
he, H. Shumach, Southw . Parsons. 

Game Bantams (Any other variety).— 1, Miss E. A. Crawford, Farns- 
field, South 1 2,G.Daft. he, T.C.&E.Newbitt; H.Shumach. e, T.C. 


Brentwood. 
. &R. Asaton. Mottram. 
)—1 and 8, M. Leno(Laced Bantams). 2, 
Bantams). he, Miss E. Beldon; 


Bantams (Whit 
Bantams (Any 
Pickles, jun. ( J. Barrow, Cheadle 
(Black Bantams); J. s.& R. Ashton (Black Bantams); W-.J. Cope, 
Barnsley (Pekin Bantams). ¢c, W. A. Taylor; J. ‘Chresh (Gold-laced Bantams). 
i PIGEONS, 

PourErs (Blue or Red)—Cock.—1 and 2, R. Fulton, Deptford. Hen.—l, E. 

Horner, Harewood. Leeds. 2and he, R. Fultun. y 


H. 


Pourers (Any colour except Blu: or Red).—Cock—l, R. Fulton. 2, E. 
Horner. c, W. Harvey, Sheffield. Hen.—l, W. Harvey. 2, R. Fulton. 
CaRRIERS (Black).—Cock.—l, J. F. While, Birmingham. 2, E. Horner. 


vie, R. Fulton. he, R. Fulton; H. Yardley, Birmingham. Hen.—1, E. Horner. 
2,R. Fulton. he, J. Taylo 

Carriers (Dun)— Coc 2, G. J. Taylor. 
Hen.—1 and 2, R. Fulton. s 

Carriers (Any colonr except Black or Dun).—Cock.—1 and 2, J. C. Ord, 
Pimlico. Hen.—l, R. Fulton. 2 and he, J. C. Ord. 

Dracoons (Yellow).—l, J. Holland, Manchester. 
Birkenhead. 

Dracoons (Any other colour).—1 and 2, J. Holland. he, J. T. Dorrington, 
Didsbury. 

ANTWERPS.—l, J. Williams, Manchester. 
Searsdale, Chesterfield. 
—1, J. Williams. 
and 2. 


—1, F. J. McLaren, Pendlebury. 


2 


and vhe, F. Graham, 


2, Mrs. F. S. Arkwright, Sutton 


2and c, E. E. M. Royds, Rochdale. 
he, R. Fulton. 
v. Bulpin, Bridgwater. 2, J. F. Loversidge, Newark. 
v J our except White).—1, J. Elgar, Osmanthorpe Hall, New- 
ark. 2,P. H. Jones, Fulham. 
TUMBLERS (Almond).—1 and 2, R. Fulton. he, J. Ford, Monkwell Street, 
London. ¢, E. Horner. 
BEARDS oR B —l and 2, J. Fielding, jun., Rochdale. he, W.H. C. Oates, 
Besthorpe, Nev 
TUMBLERS (Anj 
Nuns.—(Lhe whole cle 
declined awarding any pri 
MaGPirs 
TURBITS 
SwaLLow 
ARCHANG 
Owts (En. 
P.H.Jones. — 
ows (Foreign).—1 and vhc, J. Fielding, jun. 2, W. Harvey. he, P. H. 
ones. 
Rounts.—1. 5. A. Wyllie, East Moulsey. 2, H. Yardley. Extra 2, P. H. Jones. 
TRUMPETERS.—1, J. Firth, Dewsbury. 2, W. H.C. Oates. 
ANY oTSER VARIETY NoT BEFORE NaMeD.—1 and 3, W. B. Tegetmeier, 
eee 2, J. Baily, jun., Mount street, London (German Toy). ihe, H. 
ardley (2 


JupeEs.—Dorkings, Spanish, Cochins, French Breeds, Extra Stock, 
and Bantams, except Game: Mr. E. Hewitt, Sparkbrook, Birmingham. 
Brahmas: Messrs. Hewitt and Teebay. Game and Game Bantam: 
Mr. R. Teebay, Fulwood, Preston. Lamburghs, Polands, Ducks, dc 
Mr. J. Dixon, North Park, Bradford, Yorkshire. Ornamental Water- 
Soul: Messrs. Dixon and Hewitt. Pigeons: Dr. Cottle, Cheltenham ; 
and Mr. T. H. Ridpeth, Oatwood Hall, Handforth, Cheshire. 


ety).—1, R. Fulton. 


2.3, Ford. 
wving been so evidently trimmed, the Judges 
) 
1 and 2, E, Horner, 
F. all, Handford. 2 and he, W. Bankes, Runcorn. 
E. Horner, 
—l,C. Bulpin. 2, W. Harvey. 
sh, Blue aud Silver).—l and 2, F. Mangnall. he, W. Bankes; 


ULCERATED FEET OF BIRDS. 


Ix your Journal of November 3rd (page 362) I observe a 
question about a Bullfinch’s feet being swollen, and Mr. Blak- 
ston says it arises from the cage, &c., not being kept clean. 
Now this cannot he, as I knew several kept in a room afflicted 
with bad feet. I have observed that Bullfinches seem more 
subject to this complaint than other birds, but I have known 
Canaries affected with it. It comes on with a sort of swelling, 
and goes on, if not stopped, till the foot suppurates, and off drop 
the claws and sometimes the foot. I found out a cure for 
it in one-fourth of the solution of chloride of soda, and three 
parts of boiled rain water with just the chill off, put into a 
little galleypot, and the bird’s feet put in twice or thrice a-day. 
“The same water will do for a day or so, but it must be kept 
corked up, as this solution is a solution of soda impregnated 
with chlorine gas, and not as many of the chemists will tell 
you, common salt. I haye known this cure birds after one or 
two of the claws have dropped off, and it may be of use to many 
of your readers,—A. Y. 


WINTERING BEES. 


WrntTer has come at last, the fields this morning are all 
white with snow, but our little favourites, sheltered by their 
warm and well-protected habitations, can bid defiance to the 
storm. Nevertheless, so long as snow lies on the ground, they 
are not altogether safe from danger, or beyond the reach of 
destructive influences. The warm rays of an unclouded sun 
playing upon their hives will arouse them from their slumbers, 
and, attracted by the bright light reflected in at their doorz, 
they are liable to be allured outside, where certain death awaits 
them. These deceitful influences would be counteracted were 
the cold sufficiently intense to cause a timely retreat to be 
beaten, buta very low temperature is not necessarily an accom- 
paniment to a fall of snow. When the earth wears her most 


| 
| 


wintry aspect, a great degree of mildness may prevail, and the 
bees are not slow to take advantage of it for an airing. This 
they can do with perfect impunity when the surface of the snow 
is crisp and hard, but the case is altered if it happens to he 
in what may be called a soft floury condition. Could bees fiy 
out and return again without halting, the effects would be bene- 
ficial ; but itis their practice as soon as they have accomplished 
the object for which they left their hives, to seek for a resting 
place. The act of relieving themselves of a burden which has 
been carried for some time, seems utterly to exhaust them. 
After laying it down they not unfrequently fall to the earth or 
reel about as if intoxicated. Now, either to fall or settle upou 
snow in a floury condition is attended with fatal results, for they 
at once sink down into it, and their energies being exhausted, 
they cannot recover themselves in time to escape being hope- 
lessly chilled. 

It is a sad sight for a bee-master to witness the loss of 
a number of valuable lives, which a little foresight and trouble 
might have prevented. The plan of collecting these fallen and 
seemingly dead victims of misfortune, and reviving them 
again by the application of a little heat has often been tried, 
but I never found it turn to good account, and I can remember 
one instance when it was attended with positive harm. Bees 
thoroughly benumbed in snow do not appear capable of endur- 
ing a lengthened con.nement immediately afterwards, and many 
of them that failed to accomplish the purpose for which their 
outside flight was undertaken are not careful, as formerly, to 
keep their hives pure and clean. 

Various methods for preventing deaths happening amongst 
the snow have been recommended, and all of them are worthy 
of notice. Some advise that the hives, as soon as winter has 
set in, be turned round on their stands, so that the entrance 
may be made to face the north. Bat this, in many cases, is 
not practicable, and it is objectionable as Jeading to the death 
of all bees that leave the hive singly on those days when the 
time devoted to flight should be the briefest possible. Having 
gone out without noticing the altered position of the doorway, 
they cannot on their return find it immediately, and the conse- 
quence is they fly about or wander until their powers are 
paralysed by thecold. Others, again, advise that the entrances 
should be closed with perforated zincor gauze. This, however, 
is apt to be resented by the bees, for, feeling the internal air 
becoming oppressive and secing the light, they crowd over the 
zine or gauze, seeking an exit in such numbers as to cause 
many to be suffocated. Bonner made use of hot tow, and it 
had this advantage—that whilst it allowed fresh air to be ad- 
mitted within, it excluded almost entirely the entrance of 
light; but so long as the rays of the sun strike directly upon 
a hive in a sheltered situation it is vain to hope that bees 
feeling the warmth will remain dormant and inactive. Conse- 
quently I look upon the plan described by Mr. Taylor as one of 
the best that has yet been devised for keeping bees at home 
when the atmosphere is chilly, or soft floury snow is on the 
ground. It is this: ‘‘ Fix before each hive a wooden screen 
nailed to a post sunk in the ground, and large enough to throw 
the whole front into shade. This does not interfere with the 
coming-forth of the bees at a proper temperature. .... and 
it should be fixed a foot or two in advance, and so as to inter- 
cept the sun’s rays, which in winter will be chiefly towards the 
west side.” To this I may add thatif the screen be large it 
will be no disadvantage, but the contrary, to have it placed 
3 or 4 feet from the front of the hive. Shutting up entrances 
beyond what will serve to exclude the field mouse should, if 
possible, be avoided.—R. 8. 


SPURIOUS HONEY. 


I roox no part in this controversy, like your esteemed corre- 
spondent ‘‘ A DryonsHIRE Bre-KEEPER,’’ baving little light to 
throw upon it, and I have no knowledge of either Mr. Pettigrew 
or ‘*A LanarxsoirE Brer-KEEPER” further than from their 
communications to ‘‘our Journal,” but I can join ‘in the 
pleasure not unmingled with profit’ with which I have perused 
the contributions, not of Mr. Pettigrew alone, but of both. 

Mr. Pettigrew’s efforts to expose the rascality of any bee- 
keeper selling sugar-syrup for flower honey is worthy of all 
praise; and believing that this substitution could and has been 
made, and haying called attention to the same subject in this 
Journal two years ago, I could sympathise very much with him. 
Still, I quite agreed with ‘‘A Mancnester Man” that Mr. 
Pettigrew’s remarks were unfortunate in coupling his censure 
with the Stewafton system. From inquiries I caused to be 


January 5, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


19 


made at the time among some of the most extensive of the 
Ayrshire bee-keepers, men quite above the meanness of such 
adulterating practices, I was assured it was by no means prac- 
tised among them—that, indeed, it would not pay; and from a 
somewhat lengthened experience of their system I would rather 
incline to think it might prove a temptation to bee-keepers 
working on the swarming or some other mode lacking the vast 
population of Stewarton stocks, by which supers in favourable 
seasons can be readily filled without any such extraneous aids. 

That Mr. Pettigrew unfairly maligned the bee-keepers of a 
county where practical bee-keeping has been brought to per- 
fection, and who turn out supers unsurpassable anywhere— 
materially assisted by the abundance of white clover in their old 
pastures, and their painstaking in moving their stocks from 
earlier to later districts as the season advances, and procuring 
swarms from localities earlier than their ovn—can be clearly 
demonstrated from the following :—Supposing they were so un- 
principled as to fabricate sugar-syrup comb in the wholesale 
manner indicated, so that three boxes could be sent to Man- 
chester and come under his review at one time, during a season 
when, from the unexampled abundance of clover honey, the finest 
supers were readily procurable at from 9d. to 1s. per lb.; yet 
this last season, from the extreme dryness of the summer, the 
staple flower so utterly failed to secrete its wonted nectar, that 
i was informed by a leading Ayrshire bee-keeper there had not 
been, he believed, a single completed box of clover honey in all 
the county. What a chance for the adulterators! Clover 
honey not to be had, a warm summer with their bees all idle 
ready to store; and how opportunely a railway opened bringing 
the finest Greenock crush sugar direct from the refinery to 
their own doors! And what do wo find? After inquiring of 
the most extensive honey dealers in Glasgow I have had in- 
variably the same answer—‘' Not offered a box of honey from 
Ayrshire this season.” This surely requires no comment. 

But how are we to get over the three supers referred to by 
Mr. Pettigrew, who positively asserted they were sugar syrup ? 
“ A LANARKSHIRE Brx-KEEPER,” on the other hand, who seemed 
to have inspected them before their dispatch, was equally confi- 
dent they contained no more sugar than his pen. Of this I know 
absolutely nothing. Would Mr. Pettigrew pardon the sugges- 
tion that possibly he may have been mistaken? seeing clover 
honey from Stewarton hives, gathered so rapidly as it was in 
such a summer as that of 1869, was of a limpid purity not 
unlike syrup, and likely to cause a party unfamiliar with it to 
make the mistake, which has frequently been made before. 

To illustrate this, I have a very vivid recollection, in the 
days of my novitiate, of the first time I examined in a Glasgow 
Utalian warehouse some supers of clover honey. The combs 
were so massive and straight-wrought, and their contents of 
such dazzling purity, that I came away thoroughly disgusted 
with my poor tops at home, of which I had been previously not 
a little proud, with their twisted unsealed combs irregularly 
studded with odd pollen-cells and small patches of brood, and 
all abominably discoloured over the central holes of my straw 
skeps. I speedily took counsel of my preceptor, a shrewd and 
most experienced bee-master of the old school, and exactly such 
as I picture in my mind’s eye Mr. Pettigrew to be, and related 
the marvels I had witnessed. He listened quietly, unmoved at 
my glowing description. Had he seen them too? I asked. 
With a twinkle in his eye and a shrug of his shoulders, ‘' Oh 
yes; yon’s all sugar,” was the reply I was staggered with. Not 
‘{uite content with this, I subsequently made repeated excursions 
into Ayrshire to acquire a knowledge of the Stewarton system, 
purchased hives, and set to work; and after a good many years’ 
experience it so happened that I took last season from a Stew- 
arton stock at one lift three, and the previous season from the 
same colony four, 20-lb. supers, that for.straightness and purity 
would fairly vie with the above, and the stock had not had a 
single tea-spoonfal of sugar for the last three years, convincing 
sae how thoroughly my old friend had been mistaken. I have 
been assured by most experienced judges of honey who officiate 
at the leading shows, that such adulteration of honeycomb is 
seldom to be met with, that it would not pay, and is resorted to 
by the merest novices to complete a box or glass, but that the 
difference of colour and rough crystallised appearance at once 
lead to detection. 

Mr. Pettigrew, in No. 446, remarks, and very justly too, that 
‘“Sweetened water never becomes honey, even though twice 
swallowed and disgorged by bees.’ He may not be aware, and 
it may interest him to know, that seven or eight years ago the 
iheory was advanced that sugar syrup so swallowed underwent 
a chemical change before being stored by the bees, so as to con- 


| 


vert it into veritable honey; but this doctrine, though upheld 
by high authority, including one of the ablest pens whose con- 
tributions adorn the bee portion of the Journal, our Editors, to 
their credit be it mentioned, strenuously resisted.—A Runrrew- 
SHIRE BEE-KEEPER. 


FOUL BROOD. 

THERE is a Latin phrase, Tempora mutantur ct nos mutamur mn 
illis. I wonder whether ‘ A Renrrewsuire Buy-Keerer,” or myself, 
have changed most in our opinions on this very subject of foul brood. 
Thave hitherto always acknowledged the courtesy of language, and 
general fairness of ‘‘ A RENFREWSHIRE Brt-KEEPER” as a contro- 
versialist on this and other bee subjects, but in the article before me 
T fear that he has deviated somewhat from this excellent rule. May 
I not express the opinion, that in taking up these articles for criticism 
and remark, after so lone an interval of time, he has overlooked 
much in them which behoved him to notice, and inadvertently, 
perhaps, led him to reiterate charges of ‘‘ unfairness,” which I thought 
were long ago refuted and abandoned? In this way he has chosen 
rather to crack the nut than taste the kernel ; to look upon the casket 
more than its contents. May I also be permitted to make a similar 
observation in reference to Mr. Woodbury’s reply to these articles im- 
mediately after their appearance in the Journal ? 

There is one remark, however, which has been so often made before, 
and which is again repeated, ad nauseam, by ‘‘ A RENFREWSHIRE 
Brur-kEEPER’—namely, that I “‘ unfairly ignored”” Mr. Woodbury’s 
experiences as to the manner in which foul brood was introduced into 
his apiary. Now, Icannot see this. In combating opinions, we are 
not ignoring facts. In opposing the beliefs and experiences of others 
by counter beliefs and experiences of our own, we are not necessarily 
trespassing against the rules of ‘fairness. No. We are merely 
calling into question the accuracy of observation, the correctness of 
inference. The author of ‘‘ The Handy Book of Bees,” for instance, 


| among other errors he has committed in the natural history of our 


little favourites, boldly asserts that bees remove egys, and assist the 
queen in placing them in the cells! Also, that queens are reared 
from drone eggs! And, again, that the queen in setting out on her - 
marriage tour, is pursued through the air by a host of males, probably 
like a fox by a pack of hounds, so that the poor queen comes to grief 
often, as master Reynard does, and may sometimes be found lying on 
the ground literally almost worried to death, by a cluster of rapacious 
drones! The author, for whom as a practical apiarian I entertain a 
high opinion, and whose ‘‘ Handy Book’ I have read with much pleasure, 
is, no doubt, perfectly sincere in his beliefs; but these, in my opinion, 
are not facts, but mere fancies, unsupported by evidence, and contrary 
to all careful observation and sound experiment. So also as to the 
new method of controlling the fertilisation of the queen. It is vouched 
for by several most respectable individuals. Details are given, and 
evidence is cited, but, nevertheless, and notwithstanding all this, I be- 
lieve them to be in error. I reckon the asserted facts are but fancies, 
optical delusions it may be, or errors in observation and experiment. 
Now, if this is the kind of ‘unfairly ignoring,” to which ‘“‘ A Rrn- 
FREWSHIRE BrEE-KEEPER”’ refers, he has not chosen the most appro- 
priate words to characterise what I hold everyone in this land of free 
thought and utterance is privileged to exercise—viz., the unfettered 
expression of opinions on all subjects, not even excepting this large 
question in the eyes of apiarians, the origin of foul brood. 
As to the subject foul brood itself, how stands it? 
origin? How its eure ? 


Whence its 
Have apiarian authors ard writers agreed as 
to the first? Is there a concensus of opinion as to the latter? I trow 
not. Is there not rather a Babel of discord and contrariety? The 
great aim of some is to discover a remedy for the evil; mine has been 
to ascertain its origin, prevention being in my estimation better than 
cure. I ascribed it, according to my experience, to chill, neglect of 
the brood, and other cognate influences; and I have conceded that 
brood stewed alive by heat may be as disastrous, for aught I know, to 
a colony of bees, as brood starved by neglect and cold. The great 
question is, Have like evil results followed both extremes? It is not 
a paradox that dissimilar causes may produce similar resulis. ‘A 
RENFREWSHIRE BEE-KEEPER” believes that overheating originates 
foul brood. I believe it frequently may. I also believe that from 
very opposite causes, such as I have named, the same results also fre- 
quently follow. 

When I first promulgated these views I wrote from personal expe- 
rience only. I knew nothing of Dzierzon, Baron yon Berlepsch, and 
Quinby’s experiences in foul brood. Had I done so I might have 
dwelt less upon remedial processes, which at best, I admit, ave unsatis- 
factory, and ‘(A RenrrewsHirE Bux-xerpen” knows that I even 
then declined to undertake the cure of a hive he was so kind as to 
proffer me. 

Let me ask “‘ A RENFREWSHIRE BreE-xEEPER” to look those articles 
over again upon which he has bestowed some criticism, and see the 
quotations { make from various authors and writers, more especially 
from Dr. Preuss, how similar his views are to my own in respect 
to the bad effects of unhatched, neglected, or chilled brood, not being 
removed from any hive, furnishing by their presence ‘a particu- 
larly favourable soil” for the introduction of fungi, and conseqnently, 
according to his theory, of foul brood. Why should a critic so fair as 
‘A RENFREWSHIRE BEE-KEEPER” ignore all this evidence I put 


20 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER, [ January 5, 1871. 


before him and others, so as not to devote one single word to its con- 
sideration? He will see I do not now stand alone in my opinions, 
nor can they any longer be called peculiar. They are shared more 
or less by several of the most scientific writers on the subject. I 
believe foul brood may originate from other causes, as I have already 
stated in the articles referred to; and on the assumption that Dr. 
Preuss’s theory is a correct one, I could reconcile, I think, as already 
expressed, what appear to be conflicting propositions, more especially 
as to the manner in which foul brood often originates, and, once pro- 
duced, how it is propagated. 

“CA RENFREWSHIRE BEE-KEEPER,” I should notice, is unwilling to 
concede the point that there is any analogy between brood killed by 
heat and brood killed by cold, and ascribes foul brood in the former 
case, not to the presence of dead and unremoved larve, but to the 
fermenting of the honey, ‘‘induced, doubtless, by the effects of the 
heat and the condensed moisture mixing with the unsealed honey, 
causing it to ferment, and acting in a deleterious manner on the larve 
when fed with it.” This is, I think, a very questionable surmise, and 
for my part I can see no ground whatever for such an idea. 

I conclude this New Year’s communication by cordially wishing ‘‘ A 
RENFREWSHIRE BEE-KEEPER,” and all my apiarian brethren who inter- 
change opinions in our especial corner of the Journal, many happy 
returns of the season, not forgetting our respected and worthy Editors, 
by whose kind indulgence I am permitted to say so much.—J. Lowe. 


[ Want of space has obliged us to omit some paragraphs.—Eps. ] 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Booxs (H. @.).—The book you mention is 3s. 6d. unooloured, and 
7s. 6d. coloured. Any bookseller can obtain it for you. 


Pouttry AND Canary SHows.—We have received the lists of prizes 
awarded at Skelton and some other shower, but we do not publish them, 
concluding that they are only of local interest, as the committees did 
not advertise them. 


GOLD-SPANGLED HAMBURGHS (Gallus)—We cannot find spice for a 
detail of “the full points of both cock and hen.” If you enclose seven 
postage stamps with your address we will send you, post free, “ Poultry 
Book for the Many.” It contains the points of all the varieties. Eaton’s 
book is out of print. The late Mr. Brent edited ‘‘The Pigeon Book.” 
You can have it post free for twenty postage stamps. 


EXHIBITING TOGETHER DIFFERENTLY-AGED Fow Ls (Amatewr).—Where 
there is no restriction, and no rule to the contrary, birds of different 
ages may be shown together. When the classes are defined and se- 
parated, it must not be. as it is at least a dishonourable proceeding. In 
making up a pen ef different ages you must be careful that all the birds 
match in size and appearance. Although nothing is more difficult than 
to tell the exact ages of fowls after they have reached maturity (say ten 
months), yet there is often a perceptible difference between a pullet and 
a hen, and if the judges are hard run, they are glad of anything that will 
justify them in striking out a pen. 

BRAHMA CHICKENS CROOKED-BREASTED (W. J.).—The crooked breast- 
bone does not make the bird delicate. Weshould be disposed to attribute 
the defect to their haying perched too early. Brahmas are birds of quick 
growth, and are lanky when young. If put on the perch too soon their 
legs are not strong enough to bear the weight of their bodies by grasping 
the perch with their toes, and, consequently, they rest their breasts upon 
it. Asthe breast-bone is then little better than a cartilage, it takes the 
impress of the perch. We do notfor a moment believe you will find it 
hereditary, any more than you would expect a child to have a contracted 
form because its mother when young laced too tightly. They will soon 
lay, but, asa rule, birds that are meant to do so before Christmas should 
be hatched cither late in April or very early in May. We breed many 
fowls, and are, unfortunately, overrun with rats, but we do not think our 
chickens in danger when they are large enough to remain on the perch 
when put there. 

Stck Fow xs (Subscriber).—Give No. 1 Baily’s pills, and add to them 
one pill daily of camphor the size of a garden pea. Give No.2 Baily’s 
pills, and follow them, when the bird is convalescent, with meals of bread 
and ale three times per day. Give No.8 castor oil, a table-spoonful every 
day, till the blood and yellow matter have ceased, and the evacuations 
are brown and white. You must watch that she be not too much reduced. 
If she is, give her bread and ale. Case No. 3 is the worst. 

Heatine A Barn For Powns (R. S.).—We are not friendly to heat 
derived from a flue for poultry. It has a tendency to eneryate them. 
They no longer wander abroad in search of food, but finding it cold out of 
the house they return to it, and squat about in it all day. The proper 
way to make fowls lay, and to keep them warm is to feed them well. All 
they require at night in the way of warmth, is to be lodged in a dry 
place thoroughly protected from draught. If you keep as many as x 
thousand, or even five hundred fowls, you will do better by dividiny them 
in several houses rather than putting them allin one. It is far healthier. 
Tf you intend t» make a profit from the sale of eggs, you must be careful 
to +a sunply in the winter when they are most saleable. Tor this you 
will have to keep pullets hatched in Apriland May. We think you will 
do as well wit) Brahooas and Cochins as with any breed, They are very 
strong and healt iy. Thatis what you require where manyjare kept together. 

DorkinG Cog ‘eReELS (Gilbert).—The difference ina Grey ora Silver- 
Grey Dorking co ‘k is, that in the first there is no decided plumage, but 
in the second th: breast and tail must be purely black, one white spot 
would di: qualify. The hackle and saddle must also be white instead of 
gtraw-coloured. : 

MancueEs tes Snow.—* In consequence of the address of this Show and 
that of the exibitor being on the same side of the label, my five pens of 
Spanish which were entered for it, came to me from a run in Cheshire, 
where I keep them, instead of being delivered in Manchester, I think if 
would be better in future that the addresses should be on differert sides, 
as at most shows; as it is very annoying to have one’s pens empty when 
the birds look like winning.—H. Yarpury.” 

CANARIES STOLEN av Ipswicnu (J. N. H.).—We do not think that more 
notice would avail. Committees should have more watchers, 


CrysTaL PaLace SHow (Oxoniensis).—We believe before you see this 
you will have received the amount. 

Rine Doves (R. L.).—We have frequently known them kept in green- 
houses all the year, and neyer heard of their suffering from the humid 
atmosphere. 

Hypo-suLPHITE oF Sopa.—This was erroneously printed hypo-sulphate 
on page 525. 

POINTER DISEASED (J. P. C.).—The convulsive jerking and twitching of 
the neck and chest indicate chorea. Meyrick, in his excellent little 
volume on dogs, gives the following directions :—*The general health 
and diet must first be attended to. A few doses of castor oil are usually 
necessary; accompanied by blue pill (dose five grains), if the liver is 
deranged, as shown by the clay colour of the faces. The food should be 
given twice a-day, and should consist principally of vegetables, potatoes, 
oatmeal porridge, &c. When a better state of health is established, it 
will be time to give medicines to remove the disease itzelf. For this pur- 
poseit is best to begin with liquor arsenicalis, mixing two drops with each 
meal, so that the dog will take four drops in the day. The quantity must 
be gradually and cautiously increased by one drop daily, and so increased 
fora week. The same quantity must then be continued, and will often 
have to be given regularly every day for a month before a perfect cure is 
effected. As soon as the dog rejects his food, is bloodshot in the eyes, or 
has a running at the nose, it is necessary to stop the medicine, at least 
foratime. If it has had no perceptible effect in subduing the conyulsive 
jerkings of the muscles, it would be advisable to try, night and morning, 
a ball containing sulphate of zinc, two grains; powdered gentian, ten 
grains; syrup of ginger. qu. suff.” 

WATERPROOFING (J. D. L.).—The composition varies according to the 
object to be attained; state for what you need it. 


METEOROLOGLUAL OBSERVATIONS 
In the Suburbs of London for the week ending December 27th. 


THERNOMETER. 
Dare. uate: Air Earth. Wind. | Rain 
Max. Min. Max. | Min. lit. | 2ft. 

Wed... 21| 29.998 | 99.662} 32 | 21 | 43 | 43 E. | .00 
Thurs.. 22 | 29.864 | 29.844 | 28 9 | 40 | 41 E. | .00 
Fri.... 23 | 29.888 | 29.800 | 34 6 | 36 | 39 N. | .00 
Sat.... 24 | 29.696 | 29.614 | 28 2 | 35 | 88 | N.B. | .00 
Sun... 25} 29.646 | 29.598 | 34 | 14 | 84 | 88 | N.E. | .00 
Mon... 26 | 29.838 | 29.724 | 84 | 16 | 34 | 8 Na) || 09 
Tues.... 27 | 29.844 | 29.686 | 81 | 25 | 35 | 86 | NE. | .00 

Mean.. | 29.802 | 29.704 | 81.57 | 13.29 | 35.71 | 38.71! .. | 0.00 


21.—Overcast ; snow; cold wind, sharp frost. 

22.—Sharp frost; snow; clear and frosty. 

23.—Intense frost; fine, frosty ; clear and frosty. 
24.—Intense frost ; frosty fog; frosty fog at night. 
25.—Sharp frost; cold wind; overcast and frosty. 
26.—Overcast, cold wind; densely overcast; slight snow. 
27.—Sharp frost; overcast; heavy fall of snow. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Janvary 4. 


Business transactions are limited to supplying the daily wants, an@ 
Saturday is now the only market day on which we are likely to get what 
we require. Hothouse produce, however, is sufficient for present pur- 
poses, and does not meet with the demand usually experienced at this 
season. Potatoes are amply supplied. Trade is dull. 


FRUIT. 

8,d. s. da s.d. 8s. d 

1 0 to2 0{ Oranges...... 7100 6 Otol0 O 

10 © IS G|} Pears, kitch ~doz, 1 0 2 0 

00 20 TO) eo 

DO AIG) SOs) 0 

40 80 LGy eSh10 

6 6 10 0 10 0 16 0 
Melons. nO Ree, DOP gan 0 

VEGETABLES. 

s.d. 8s. a 8d. 8. a 
Beans, Kidney ....7%100 2 Oto3 0 | Lettuce . - 0 9tol 0 
Beet, Red..... ate Py QWGs SO} LON 26 
Broccoli ... OMS RaueLaG, 02 00 
Brussels Spr OO RSHO} 80 50 
Cabbage.. LO} 3210) 04 00 
Carrots. 04 O08 80 60 
Cauliflow: (hy Cty} OSG: 
Celery.. LAIGe i StnO. 20 40 
Colewor Si Oveareia 0 - 80 4 O 
Cucumb oo 6166 06 10 
Endive 20 00 16.20 
Fennel 038s 00 20 20 
Garlic 08 00 66 09 
Herbs 08 oOo DaO 2 ¢ 
Horser: Bi iOb bi 50, 80 oO 0 
Leeks ...... .. bunch 0 4 0 0) Turnips 06 oO 


POULTRY MARKET.—Janvary 4. 


Tae Christmas arrivals from abroad are not yet quitedisposed of. The 
excitement of Christmas always gives way to positive collapse, and there 
is no trade worth quoting. Another thing to be noted is, that frost. will 
often stimulate trade, but snow always destroys it and hinders all de- 
mand. It also interferes much with supply. We make quotations to the 
best of our ability. 


rh Gb eB etl 8. d. 8. d. 
Large owls ........ 8 6to4 0 } Pigeons.... 0 9 tod 10 
Smaller ditto .. 2 0 92 6 4 Rabbits. Tt a ee 
Chickens .... We GY) aks) Wild ditto 500) \96 QOmAO 
Ducks.... eel Osa ee a Gr Hares ..... SECTS 4) 
Geese .... eet tO) " 6 Partridges Mis LEM 
Pheasants............ 2 0 2 8 | Grouse .... 00 0 0 


January 12, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 21 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
pea y, 4 Average Tempera- |Rainin| Sun | gan | Moon | Moon | Moon's | Clock | Day 
Men wrsais JANUARY 12—18, 1871. | ture near London. |43 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets. Age. peters sok 
Day. |Night.|)Mean.| Days. | m. h.| m. h.| m. . h.| Days. | m. ss. 
12 TH 42.1 | 29.5 | 35.8 18 4afiS | l4af4 | 49af10 lafil 21 8 30 12 
18 F Cambridge Lent Term begins. 43.0 | 29.3 | 86.2 19 3. 8 15 4] morn. | 21 11 22 8 53 3 
14 s Oxford Lent Term begins. 42.1 | 29.9 | 86.0 19 ZAVO VE Mesa. 5 0} 41 11 € 9 15 14 
15 Sun | 2 SunDAY AFTER EPIPHANY. 41.7 | 28.9 | 85.3 13 1 8/19 4/25 1) after. 24 9 37) 15 
16 M 42.0 | 31.0 | 36.5 20 0 8|20 4/)49 2/30 0 25 9 58 16 
17 Tu 42.6 | 28.7 | 85.6 15 EASTON APA SO: Let Vana Ghat 26 10 18 17 
18 WwW Royal Horticultural Society, Fruit, Floral, | 42.6 | 31.3 | 86.9 18 58 7|23 4/30 5] 45 1 27 10 388] 18 
{and General Meeting. | 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 42.3°, and its night tempera- 


ture 29.8°. 


The greatest heat was 54°, on the 12th, 1852; and the lowest cold 8°, on tho 18th, 1867. 


The greatest fall of rain was 0.86 inch. 


GARDENERS AND GARDENING. 


HOUGH this is a subject to which I have 
given much thought, it is one which I ap- 
proach with diffidence, for I by no means 
pretend, to the possession in person of all 


but it is from a desire to draw attention to 
the subject, more especially the attention of 
youthful aspirants, that these notes are 
written. 

It is an acknowledged fact that second 
and third-rate gardeners, or, to speak more correctly, men 
who will give their services at a comparatively low rate of 
remuneration, are much more in request than first-class 
men. This may easily be accounted for from the fact that 
small gardens are more numerous than large gardens; 
and although, as a rule, the pay is lowin small places, 
there are always plenty of men of moderate capacity on 
the out-look for such vacancies, many of which are not 
unfrequently filled by persons professing to be able to do 
things quite beyond their abilities. 

Another reason worthy of serious consideration is, that 
the majority of men trained in large, or even in moderate- 
sized establishments look down with contempt on small 
gardens and those who have charge of them, and yet I 
have known many a small garden so skilfully managed, 
and everything in it so thoroughly well done, that it quite 
surpassed its larger neighbours. To have the charge of a 
large garden is a laudable ambition, but when the object 
of this desire is attained it does not always bring with it 
the expected gratification, for many large places have 
serious drawbacks, such as deficiency of labour power, 
little manure to renovate the soil, a poor supply of water, 
and other hindrances to success; so that a man, however 
zealous he may be, may spend his strength in vain efforts 
to overcome such formidable obstacles. 

“Whatever is worth doing at all, is worth doing well,’ 
is a maxim which gardeners above all other men should 
apply to their work, and, therefore, before taking charge 
of a garden, it is very important to ascertain if the assist- 
ance and working materials are in proportion to the size 
of the place, and if not, it is much wiser not to run the 
risk of failure by entering upon an engagement which is 
likely to prove unsatisfactory. When a man deliberately 
takes charge of a garden it should be with the firm resolve 
to strive for success to the utmost of his abilities. Garden- 
ing is an arduous pursuit, fraught with many difficulties 
which only the really earnest man can hope to surmount; 
it has no royal road to success, but demands unceasing 
diligence, foresight, and care. To the man who likes it 
for itself, and is thoroughly devoted to it, success is the 
best reward, and whether the garden under his hands be 
large or small will be not so important a consideration 
as that every plant and crop may be brought as near to 
perfection as possible. 

Let us now consider what are the requisite qualifications 
of a good gardener. AsI have before said, he should be 
thoroughly devoted to his calling, earnest, diligent, ener- 

No. 511,—Vou. XX,, New SERIES. 


the qualifications to which I shall allude, | 


| getic, and thoughtful; he should not be content to take 

things for granted, but should strive to search into cause 
and effect for himself; not given overmuch to experiments, 
and yet ever seeking for reasonable improvements with a 
view to the advantage of himself and his fellow-men ; for 
he should be altogether free from that narrowmindedness 
which seeks to withhold knowledge, but should be ever 
ready to impart or receive instruction, In controlling his 
assistants and labourers he should, by a judicious exercise 
of firmness and kindness, see that his rules are strictly 
acted up to and his orders obeyed to the letter. Harsh 
language should never be resorted to; it is degrading both 
to master and man. Amongst a number of men there are 
certain to be a variety of dispositions and character—some 
will be cringing or officious, others dilatory and careless, 
while a third party will quietly obey orders without any 
display of overmuch zeal, and it is this latter class who 
generally prove to be the best men. But, whatever may 
be the dispositions of the men, a quiet, firm rule, tempered 
with kindness, is by far the best method of controlling 
them. 

In his intercourse with his employers and all others of 
a higher station than himself there can be no necessity 
for cringing or an excessive display of humility ; all due 
respect should, of course, be paid, and every wish and 
order carefully attended to. Aman can be respectful with- 
out cringing, and quietly study the wishes of his employers 
without officiousness. 

In the management of a garden, close attention should 
be given to the smallest details—nothing should be over- 
looked or done in a slovenly manner; there should be no 
neglected corners, weedy paths, nor dirty houses; but 
cleanliness, order, and exquisite neatness should every- 
where prevail; even the very heaps of soil and rubbish 
should possess a trim appearance. Great care, too, should 
be taken to name each plant correctly with neat labels and 
plain writing, without any display of flourishes or fanciful 
colouring. A gardener ought, certainly, to be acquainted 
with the nomenclature of every plant under his care, but 
too little attention is given to this in private gardens ; even 
when plants appear to be carefully labelled, the spelling 
of the names is often very faulty, and that, too, in many 
of our leading gardens. While devoting proper attention 
to this important point all pedantic display should be 
avoided. The mouthing of scientific names, if profuse, 
becomes ridiculous. ; 

The difficulties which beset the gardener in the pursuit 
of his calling are undoubtedly very numerous; but then, 
if he be a man of energy and resource, every trial acts as 
an incentive to increased exertion. The experience gained 
in all such struggles is of the highest value, and when 
once the habit of boldly facing a difticulty is formed, it 
becomes part of one’s nature. ; Hider ae 

In thinking over a gardener’s difficulties, his position as 
a servant naturally comes to mind. It is to be feared 
that there is a lamentable spirit of mistrust and antagonism 
existing between many gardeners and their employers. 
This is very much to be deplored, for its existence must 
seriously affect the enjoyment of the one in his garden, 

No. 1163,—Vou. XLY., OLD SERIES. 


22 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 12, 1871. 


e—_—_—e——— eee SSS 


and the efforts of the other in his care and culture of the 
plants entrusted to him. A very common subject of complaint 
is, that in the garden the gardener assumes to be ‘ Lord para- 
mount,” entirely ignoring all knowledge of his business in 
those who employ him. It is to be feared that this is not 
unfrequently the case, but itsurely ought not to beso; common 
courtesy, to say nothing of duty, should teach one to receive 
the commands of those whom one serves with the greatest 
respect, and if possible to carry them out to the letter; if this 
cannot be done, a respectful remonstrance should sufiice. 

Very much has been written concerning the trials and diffi- 
culties which beset a gardener in the pursuit of his calling, but 
it is very rarely indeed that anything is said about the privi- 
leges and enjoyments which are his. I will venture to step 
out of this beaten path, and forget for a moment the anxieties 
of frosty nights, unkindly seasons, and all the ills which 
endanger our tender crops and delicate exotics, and will glance 
at the ‘‘ bright side of things.” Surrounded by Nature’s choicest 
gems in an endless variety of form and colour, each season 
presenting its peculiar attractions—the freshness of spring, 
the richer developments of summer, the fulnessand abundance 
of autumn, and the soberness of winter, all are peculiarly his 
to enjoy. Then there are the multitude of interesting objects 
constantly claiming his attention, and if many of them do try 
his skill to the utmost, why the greater the exertion the greater 
the enjoyment of the success which generally follows. There 
ean be no complaint of sameness, but rather of repletion, for 
novelties of all kinds are constantly pouring in upon us, ex- 
citing much interest, and affording much amusement in the 
comparison and trial of their merits. And so I might go on, 
and enumerate all the brightness and beauty which we enjoy, 
but I will rest contented with observing that we may all be 
happier, Letter men if we go through life without giving undue 
weight to its cares and sorrows, but rather striving to realise 
its blessings, of which many of us possess a much greater share 
than we are aware of until they are taken away.—EpwarD 
Locxruurst, Old Lands, Bucxted, Sussex. 


BEDDING GERANIUMS. 


TxovucH I am afraid some of your readers will be tired of the 
subject of bedding Geraniums, yet there are others who may 
be interested in some notes I made last year, at the establish- 
ments of three of the principal raisers of Zonal Geraniums— 
namely, at Mr. Pearson’s, of Chilwell; Mr. W. Panl’s, of Wal- 
tham Cross; and Mr. Laing’s (of the firm of Downie, Laird, 
and Laing), at Stanstead Park. I name them in the order in 
which I visited them. 

Chilwell Nurseries have been so well described by your able 
correspondent Mr. Luckhurst, that I shall not say much with 
respect to the nurseries themselves, but merely confirm what 
Mr. Luckhurst says with regard to the thorough way in which 
Mr. Pearson carries out all he does there. I consider Mr. 
Pearson’s glass ranges models of what glass houses ought to 
be, and I agree with him in what he said in his article on horti- 
cultural fallacies, that it is very astonishing to see the old 
eee sagh-lights and slides, with heavy rafters, still being 

uilt. 

My first visit this year at Chilwell was on the 24th of June, 
when, owing to the exceeding drought, the Geraniums had not 
sufficiently recovered their planting-out. Among the seedlings 
sent out by Mr. Pearson in 1870, I consider the best to be 
William Thompson (an improvement on Bayard), Thomas 
Speed, and Douglas Pearson (also an improvement on Bayard). 
Of these three Thomas Speed is the darkest, a crimson; and 
Douglas Pearson the brightest, a scarlet crimson. Duke of Port- 
land and Duke of Devonshire are more of the true Zonal, and 
likely to be very good for pot culture. E. J. Lowe is a very 
fine rose pink, with large pip and truss, which may prove too 
strong for bedding. Lawrence Heywood is a pecnliar shade 
when bedded, lilac rose, with a fine head of flowers, though 
rather weak in the flower stalk—in fact, I think the chief fault 
of the Geraniums sent out by Mr. Pearson in 1870 is, that the 
trusses are too large for the stalks, havirg too much of the 
Black Dwarf strain. This fault is remedied in seedlings of 
1870, which will most probably be sent out in 1872, as he has 
several very valuable strains from Violet Hill, one of which (he 
has named it Miss Rose Peach), will, if it turn out as well as it 
promises, give us one of the desiderata, a dwarf pink bedder. 
Another, a lilac seedling, called Mrs. Reynolds Hole, is also of 
great promise. He has also several fine seedlings of 1870, of 
the Bayard strain, with stiffer flower stalks; but of these I 


hope to give a farther account next summer, and I hope, as the 
Royal Horticultural Show is so near Nottingham, that we shal! 
see some of his seedlings there. It was still more difficult to 
test the 1869 seedlings, the best of which had been saved and 
worked-up for stock, and the dryness of the weather had pre- 
vented them showing to their best. 

My second visit to Chilwell was on the 5th of August, when E 
looked through several hundreds, if not thousands, of seedlings. 
Several very good pinks and lilacs of the dwarf section had 
bloomed since I had been there before. Many of them were 
put aside for future trial, and almost any would be valuable as 
bedders, the great difficulty being to select the best. 

The Tricolors had much improved, and one called Mr. W- 
Sanday (after an old and valued friend of mine, an eminent 
champion with Leicester sheep), is one of the most distinet 
and striking among the Tricolors, as a bedder, that I have 
seen as yet. Other very good ones were Mrs. Edge and Edi'b 
Pearson. It was still difficult to judge of the 1869 seedlings 
owing to the very trying summer, but where there are so many 
seedlings to select from, and with the care which Mr. Pearson 
personally gives to the selection, the public may safely try any 
Geraniums, especially Zonal Nosegays, sent out from Chilwell- 

The next nursery I visited in pursuit of new Geraniums was 
Mr. W. Paul’s, at Waltham Cross. Having gone up to London 
to assist at the inauguration of the Metropolitan Floral Show, 
I went on September 7th to Waltham. I was very unlucky in 
my day; it began to pour just as I was starting, and owing to 
the causeway in the Strand being all pulled up for repairs, I 
missed the train at Bishopsgate Street by a few seconds, the 
door of the station being closed as I was paying the cabman, 
and I had to wait for nearly two hours. When I got to Waltham 
it still kept on a pouring rain, and I had to see the Geraniums 
under an umbrella. It was, therefore, a great trial to them. 
especially as there had been heavy rain several times during 
the ten days previous, but the Geraniums bore the trial well. 
Among the best were :—Bonfire, a fine scarlet crimson, large 
truss, dwarf habit, with good footstalk, apparently a very free 
bloomer, and a very desirable sort. Robinson Crusoe, magenta 
crimson, with a flame on two top petals, a fine flower to look 
close at, and good for pot culture. Titan, fine rose, but too 
strong a grower to please me for bedding. Waltham Nosegay, 
well known, much like Waltham Seedling, but with a plainer 
leaf; and while referring to Waltham Seedling I cannot refrain 
from mentioning one of its most valuable qualities which is 
too often lost sight of, the continuity of blooming. I have two 
letters from friends to whom I recommended it, saying it had 
lasted longer with them than any other sort, and I have heard 
since from Mr. Paul, that he has had the same testimony from 
Mr. Moore and Mr. Gibson. The young ladies of Beulah 
Cottage condemned it for its smallness of truss. I can only 
say I have measured the trusses from 4 to 5 inches across, and 
though I quite agree with the young ladies that one of the 
greatest merits in a bedding Geranium is size of truss, still 
freedom and constancy of bloom, with a good habit of footstalk 
to show the bloom to advantage and stand weather, are more 
valuable still, and in this Waltham Seedling and Violet Hill 
are as yet unbeaten. 

But to return. The next marked in my note-book was Rain- 
bow, something of the colour of the old Sutton’s Perfection, but 
a Nosegay; then Vesta, a dwarf dark scarlet, very favourably 
reported on in the Chiswick trials (first-class certificate). Next 
came Comet, a fine orange scarlet, not quite orange enough, 
but of a very striking colour and fine habit of growth, dwarf 
and compact. A fine pure orange is still wanted. Hvyening 
Star, a peculiar shade of soft rose, alsodwarf. Boadicea,:ather 
like Robinson Crusoe, but not so dark in colour; likely to come 
out well in autumn. Cyrus, an improvement on Glory of 
Waltham, more dwarf and free-blooming. Lilac Rival, of 
which I cannot recall the habit. Dante and Penelope, both 
very good rose pinks, adapted for pot culture, but also good 
for stronger beds or ribbon borders. Claude Lorraine, another 
fine shade of magenta, likely to prove a good bedder. Ihad 
not time to go through Mr. Paul’s seedlings as I should have 
liked, as I was due at Sawbridgeworth at 3.20 to see Mr. Rivers’s 
nurseries, and I had not time either to take special notes of 
the Tricolors or white-edged varieties, of which Mr. Paul bas 
go good examples in Avalanche and Waltham Bride. . 

The next day I went to Stanstead Park to see Mr. Lsing’s 
nurseries, and was more favoured in my weather. I especially 
went to see his seedling Bronzes, but there were Nosegay 
seedlings as good as the Bronzes. Several of them I have 
already described, and they are known to many of your readers. 


January 12, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


23 


Lady Kirkland, which I had only judged before from a single 
plant in my possession, which I had thought most promising, 
more than verified what I expected of it. The trusses are very 
fine, and I especially remarked the whole bed had not a seed 
pod on it, and Mr. Laing said it hardly ever showed one during 
the exceedingly hot weather. In colour it is something like 
Dachess of Sutherland. Lady Hawley, another sent out by Mr. 
Laing this year, was also very good, fine scarlet, a crimson shade, 
not orange, dwarf, and free-blooming. Sunshine and Sunlight, 
also good. They have bloomed exceedingly well with me in 
small pots this winter, cuttings struck in August being in good 
bloom now. Of the Zonal Nosegay seedlings not yet sent out 
were Star of Fire, scarlet crimson, very vivid colour, free-bloom- 
ing and spreading habit, sure to be a good bedder; and Phebe, 
orange Cerise, of nearly the same habit as Star of Fire; Moor 
of Venice, pure crimson, fine colour and good habit; George 
Peabody, somewhat similar in colour but more scarlet, also not 
seeding, in habit putting me much in mind of Mr. Pearson’s 
strain. Mr. Laing had several of the French seedlings planted 
out, but all seemed to me to be wanting in firmness of petal. 

But the greatest acquisition among new seedlings was a pink 
Zonal Nosegay called Pink Queen, a basket of which Mr. Laing 
had shown at the Metropolitan Floral Show at the Crystal 
Palace, and which I here saw planted out. In colour it is more 
like Helen Lindsay than anything else, but it is of a finer 
tint, and has a large truss instead of a small one, as Helen 
Lindsay has; to judge from the way small plants of it bloom 
it is likely to prove a most valuable bedder, Mr. Pearson’s seed- 
ling Miss Rose Peach being the only rival to it I have yet seen. 

To turn to the Bronze and Gold section. There were many 
fine unnamed seedlings planted out, though as bedders none, 
I think, surpass two Mr. Laing has already sent ont—Impéra- 
trice Hugénie and Crown Prince. The first, Impératrice Eu- 
génie, is the most brilliant in point of colouring of any Gera- 
nium I have yet seen bedded in mass; and next to it comes 
Crown Prince with a stronger habit, though it will never be 
coarse, as it has so little green in it. Mr. Laing had most oi 
his best seedlings at the Crystal Palace, but as they were still 
unnamed it is not possible to particularise them. In my 
opinion, however, in aiming after form and breadth of zone he 
has rather lost colour, some of the zones in the Bronzes being 
so broad as to leave very little centre or margin; but for those 
who like very circular flat leaves and dark-coloured zones of 
fhe Black Knight type there are some very fine sorts. Next 
to Impératrice Eugénie I class Brilliancy in point of colouring; 
then come Mrs. Alan Loundes, Harrison Weir, Princess of 
Wales, and Charming. Mrs. Lewis Lloyd, a fine gold colour 
with only a narrow zone of red, makes a very striking bed. One 
peculiarity of this type of Bronze is, as I have before remarked, 
that they do not turn green as they die off, but a lighter colour, 
the zones sometimes crimson, and the effect in a bed is very 
remarkable ; in fact, the colour of a bed of Impératrics Eugénie 
is more gold and red than bronze. They require warm treat- 
ment in winter and good food in summer to bring out their 
colours, and they well repay all care. 

I would again repeat what I have said before: If people wish 
to have Geraniums in good order when planting, and to make 
a garden gay early, never let them be too cold in winter. Hardy 
though they are, a cold damp treatment is the worst they can 
have. Keep them growing, with plenty of light and air, and a 
temperature never under 45° nor above 60°, and a garden will 
be gay a month or six weeks sooner than if they had been 
what persons call hardened in the winter, which is really no 
hardening, but a stagnation of life from which the plants recover 
with difficulty. I have now all my cuttings, which were not 
taken from the beds till the middle of September, potted off, 
and they are more forward than if they had been struck in the 
open ground in August and then kept in cold frames and pits, 
and they will be still more forward by bedding-out time.— 
U. P. Pracu. 


Tue ADVANTAGES or Borrom Hxat on A Larce Scatz.—One 
of the most curious phenomena in connection with coal mining 
is exhibited at the Bank Colliery, near Rotherham, the property 
of Harl Fitzwilliam. This pit caught fire one hundred years 
ago, and all the efforts of the workmen at the time, and subse- 
quently, have been quite ineffectual to extinguish it. A short 
time ago it was ascertained that the flames were approaching the 
bottom of the shaft, and it was then resolved, if possible, to stay 
their progress, so that they might not extend to other parts of 
the workings. At length the superintendent of the collieries, 
Mr. T. Cooper, conceived the idea of building a wall to shut in 


the fire, and in order to ascertain the best site for this wall, 
several of the ofticials crept on their hands and knees, through 
the dense stifling smoke, as far as possible into the workings. 
Their efforts were successful, and a wall is now completed 
nearly 1000 yards in length, and varying from 9 inches to 5 feet 
in thickness. At distances varying from 30 to 50 yards metal 
pipes have been inserted in this wall, which are securely plugged 
at the end, so that at any time, by removing the plugs, the state 
of the air on the side of the fire, and even the position of the 
fire itself, can be ascertained. So intense is the heat arising 
from this fire that people possessing gardens above the colliery 
declare that the growth of plants is materially affected, and that 
they are enabled to obtain two and three crops every year. 


GROWING EARLY POTATOES. 


Any method by which the easy culture of early Potatoes can 
be accomplished is sure to be of service to those on whom 
there is a great demand for them early in the spring, and to 
that end the following paper aims. A method usually adopted 
for obtaining early Potatoes is to prepare a bed of fermenting 
materials in a pit, or to form one on which frames are laid, and 
after the soil within becomes warm, to plant the sets at once 
without any careful preparation. Asa matter of course the 
Potato is soon at work, the heat from the bed forcing it rapidly, 
and at @ season when much air-giving is seldom admissible ; 
the consequence is too frequently an abundance of haulm, with 
a light crop of tubers. 

Linvariably obtain good crops of early Potatoes by potting 
some in 8-inch pots the first week in January, using a handful 
of fresh horse droppings over the crock, and light fresh soil for 
pottingin. Having the set disbudded to one shoot, and giving 
the Potato a cut about an inch in length and depth at its base, 
I place the set low down in the pot. The pots can be stored 
in any structure affording a gentle warmth until the leaves - 
break through the soil. By this time a slight hotbed is ready 
for them, the depth of fermenting materials being about 2 feet ; 
on this is laid to the depth of 6 inches soil, which should be 
rough and light. On it the pots are placed for about a week or 
ten days, admitting air in abundance at all favourable opportu- 
nities. When the stems are 4 inches high, the plants are 
turned out of the pots and planted at distances of 18 inches by 
1 foot, opening up the soil sufficiently to admit the ball to half 
its depth. The soil removed is then carefully worked round 
each plant, scarcely covering the roots. When the growth 
is 8 inches high, warm soil is worked in between the rows up 
to 2 inches above the original ball of earth, leaving the whole 
surface flattened. The plants seldom require water, the moisture 
arising from the bed being nearly sufficient for them. Give air 
at all favourable opportunities, covering well up on cold nights, 
but having constantly a slight amount of air. By the time 
the foliage commences to curl the Potatoes will be rapidly 
forming, after which scarcely any water should be given, other- 
wise it will materially interfere with their flavour. 

The best variety for frame work, if steadily grown, is Myatt’s 
Prolific, the tubers coming out very even in size, about 2 inches 
under the surface of the soil, and passing beyond the original 
ball of soil some inches. 

I also find it serviceable to pot in 10-inch pots a quantity of 
the Cockney, an early dwarf-topped Potato, well adapted for 
pots, the tubers forming close at home, and being of good size. 
This is done in the first week of April, placing them in any 
unheated house or frame, and when fear of frost is past, & 
trench is then opened on a south border, in which they are 
placed, still remaining in the pots, over and between which 
the loose soil is carefully worked, leaving the mound of soil 
about 4 inches above the surrounding level. By this means I 
obtain an excellent lot of young Potatoes a fortnight sooner 
than from the open borders.—T. C. Saaz. 


GROWING DWARF POINSETTIAS. 


Wuen the Rev. C. P. Peach is trying his experiments with 
the dwarfing of Poinsettia pulcherrima, as I see he intends to 
do next year, may I ask him to try the plan of growing four 
plants in a pot, and flowering them as dwarfs? If he succeeds, 
of which I have no doubt, I think he will be highly pleased. 
T have not yet had the opportunity to do more than try two or 
three pots, and these gave me satisfaction. They were so very 
handsome and effective when placed in a row with the Single 
White Roman Hyacinth, and edged with small plants of Sela- 


24 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 12, 1871- 


ginella denticulata, that I have decided to grow more of them | and are now growing for themselves. 


when conyenient. 

My plan was to take the points of the medium-sized bloom- 
ing shoots, and make them into cuttings about 4 inches long, 
taking off the bottom leaf only; to place each cutting in a very 
small pot, say a 72, or 2-inch pot; and to strike them in a brisk 
bottom heat and a moist, close atmosphere. Afterwards I 
put four of these cuttings in a 6-inch pot; the tallest in the 
centre, potting it rather higher than the others, and three 
round the sides. Place the latter slantingly and equidistant. I 
used a rich turfy loam, a handful of rotten cow manure, and 
sand. I kept themin close quarters until established, and 
then allowed them more light and moderate air. They cannot 
grow tall with such moderate-rooting space, but instead of that 
the nourishment the plants take from the soil will not only 
give the foliage a good colour, but will develope as fine a lot 
of floral leaves as can well be wished for, and the pot and plants 
will not, perhaps, exceed 1 foot high. The cuttings, I think, 
should be selected just as the shoot has ceased growing, and is 
about to form its tiny floral bracts.—T. Recorp. 


GROUND VINERIES. 


I HAvE read much and heard much for and against ground 
vineries, and one Journal went so far as to say that they were 
unworthy the attention of gardeners, excepting for the growth 
of vegetables in winter, but they might do for amateurs. Even 
the inventor a week or so ago, in writing to ‘‘ our Journal,” 
said that he did not believe in them. However, being very 
fond of Grapes, and, moreover, being an amateur fruit-grower, 
I thought I would try some of them three or four years ago. 
So I wrote to Mr. Rivett to send me half a dozen of his pattern 
of ground yinery. On receiving them I sawit would be an im- 
provement to do away with the groove for the glass to rest in, 
instead of which I made it to lap, and fixed with iron hooks, 
by which means [ also got rid of the putty. Ialso strengthened 
the ends with a light iron cross-bar, and supported the ridge 
woodwork by bracing it to the lower wood on each side with a 
light ircn bar. This prevented warping, which otherwise was 
apt to take place, and then the glass fell out. Instead of slates 
I paved the bottom with tiles, which I thought would hold 
both heat and moisture. To each Vine I allowed a growth of 
21 feet—that is, three 7-feet lengths of lights. 

The sorts I have planted are Black Muscat of Alexandria or 
Muscat Hamburgh, Foster’s White Seedling, Lady Downe’s, 
Frankenthal, Black Hamburgh, Black Hamburgh (Morris’s 
variety), Early Golden Frontignan, General della Marmora, 
Fintindo, La Ville de Bruxelles, Golden Champion, Trentham 
Black, and a seedling of my own. Some of the Vines have 
tet others not yet, but I will give my notes of those that 

Rave. 

Early Golden Frontignan bears well, and was ripe and of 
excellent flayour in the first week of September, both in 1869 
and 1870. 

Foster’s White Seedling. Thisis a fine Grape, and succeeds 
remarkably well in a ground yinery. It was ripe in the middle 
of September. 

Trentham Black did not set well in 1869, but set well in 
1870. In colour itis jet black. Its flavour was all that could 
be desired. It was ripe in the last week of September. 

General della Marmora is a free bearer, but I do not think 
much of the flayour. It is poor in quality, at least with me. 
This I shall dig up or graft. 

Fintindo, a black Grape, loose in the bunch, and which does 
not require thinning, or at most very little. It is smaller in 
the berry than the Black Hamburgh, and not so good. 

Frankenthal and Black Hamburgh both did remarkably well, 
were fine in colour and flavour, and were ripe in the last week 
of September and the first week of October. 

Black Muscat of Alexandria was large in bunch and good in 
colour, and delicious. 

Lady Downe’s became black at the beginning of October, 
and was cut ripe on the 4th of November. A very free bearer. 

Morris’s Black Hamburgh I bought as earlier than the Black 
Hamburgh. I have not found it so, nor to my thinking is it 
so good in other respects as that variety. 

The rest of my Vines I hayenot allowed to bear yet. As far 
as I have gone I deem my ground vineries a great success, as 
they supply me with excellent Grapes more than two months 
in the year with comparatively little trouble. Many of my 
friends, after seeing the Vines and tasting the produce, have 


Ido not pretend to say 
that the growth is equal to the fruit grown in my heated 
vinery, but I aver the Grapes are good and rich in flavour, 
equal to, nay better, in quality than many that I have seen 
grown in cool houses; and I would say to my brother amateurs, 
Try one Vine, such as the Trentham Black or the Frankenthal, 
and if you succeed as well as I have done, I think you will not 
regret the experiment. One word more, Do not have the glass 
less than 21-oz., and if the weather is very hot whiten the glass 
on the side next the sun.—Harrison WEI, Weirleigh, Kent. 


CYCLAMEN CULTURE. 


BEForeE recording my experience on Cyclamen culture I wisk 
to give this warning—with proper attention it is one of the 
most easy plants to cultivate, but without that it is one of the 
most difficult. Ican assure Mr. W. Scott he can not only have 
good blooming plants in ten months, but in eight months useful 
ones with from two to ten dezen blooms, and I believe for 
general purposes from October till May they are not equalled, 
especially for London rooms. 

For exhibition purposes, I think as a rule they should be 
shown in collections independently of size of pots, taking the 
quality of flower and foliage into consideration as the colours 
are so various, and perhaps in several collections of six or 
twelve they may be nearly all equal but different in colour. 

I think in time a good Cyclamen will equal what our best 
Fuchsias are now in shape and substance of petal; good dis- 
tinct-based flowers—that is my standard of excellence. 

To have good plants in eight or ten months sow the seed any 
time after January, allowing eight or ten months according as 
the plants are wanted to bloom; 5-inch pots or pans will do. 
Sow about 1 inch apart in a gentle bottom heat. When the 
plants are up keep them as near the glass as possible, giving 
air gradually; and after this time they should have all the air 
possible, dependant upon the external temperature, and night 
and day during the summer months. As soon as they have 
made three or four leaves pot off the plants singly in small 
60-sized pots, reshifting, as the roots find their way to the out- 
sides of the pots, to large 60’s, 5-inch, and 6-inch pots, returning 
them to the bottom heat, as they are very susceptible of any 
check, which will keep them on the standstill fora month or 
six weeks. The soil should be either warmed or the pots 
raised from the bottom heat two or three days before shifting. 
I do not recommend planting two or three plants in a pot, nor 
planting them out. 

A frame is the best place in which to grow them during the 
summer months, shading at all times from strong sunshine ; 
and as a good show of bloom entirely depends upon clean 
healthy foliage, the plants should be syringed at least twice 
a-day to preserve cleanliness, and to save the foliage from red 
spider, which appears to be their chief enemy. 

Not later than September plants should be removed from the 
frames to a stage or shelf in the greenhouse or conservatory, as 
after that time they are subject to damp, maintaining just 
enough fire heat to expel frost and damp, and giving plenty of 
air without cold currents. If they are kept in a damp, close 
atmosphere whilst in bloom during the winter months, anyone 
can have spotted varieties to his heart’s content, but such E 
consider a disfigurement. 

After the blooming season place the plants in a cool pit or 
greenhouse, and gradually withhold water, but never allow 
them to become dust dry. After they have lost all or the greater 
part of the leaves, shake them out, repot, and return them to 
acold frame, sprinkling twice a-day overhead, and watering at 
the root very cautiously at first, increasing the supply as the 
foliage increases. Return them to a stage in the greenhouse at 
the end of September. In two or three years good specimen 
plants can be had from 18 inches to 2 feet in diameter, with 
corms of from 4 to 6 inches. 

The amateur may rest assured Cyclamens can be grown quite 
as well without bottom heat as with it. Sow the seed in 
October instead of in spring, place the pots on a shelf in a 
greenhouse near the glass, and grow the plants in a cold frame 
during the hot summer months. 

I find the best compost is one-half good fibrous loam, and 
one-half leaf mould and well-rotted hotbed manure. Avoid 
cow dung, as it contains so many grubs, and should any be 
missed in the potting, they will completely destroy the plant, 
commencing with the roots and finishing at the corm. 

A few words about the ten-months collection of plants ex- 


taken the measurement of the frames and had some made, | hibited at South Kensington by Mr. Clarke, of Twickenham, 


January 12, 1871. ] 


well-known as one of the largest, most successful, and scarcely- 
equalled forced Strawberry-grower for maket. He forces some 
thousands of plants, and when in full work the fruit is a sight 
not seen every day, and probably he is able to gather from 
50 lbs. to a hundredweight several times a-week. He conse- 
quently requires a large area of glass in frames and houses, 
and they are of the best form I have seen for the purpese. The 
Strawberries are first started in frames in bottom heat, and 
drafted te the houses as wanted. The Cyclamens then succeed 
them in the frames, and are grown in a gentle bottom heat 
during the summer, and remoyed to the houses in September, 
the Strawberries again following them for the winter. It must 
be understood his collection of Cyclamens was exhibited as a 
collection of about eighty or a hundred plants for quality and 
variety of colour, all in 48-pots, with from five to ten dozen 
blooms. Mr. Clarke’s houses are now all filled with them, 
their number amounting to some thousands, all for market, in 
different stages of bloom, and, taking the whole as a lot of ten- 
months plants, I think they are not to be equalled. The plants 
in the early house, which is about 120 feet long by 12 wide, 
are now in bloom, and a sight worth going miles to see,.— 
Guorce Epezrton, Strawberry Hill. 


[Mr. Edgerton sent us some fine specimens. 
flowers were semi-double.—Eps. ] 


Some of the 


RED AND WHITE EXHIBITION POTATOES. 


Reauty it does seem like a reverse of history when a 
«« Raleigh ’”’ comes to seek instruction from a ‘“‘ Fenn ”’ relative 
to Potatoes. Yet so itis, and I beg to inform a correspondent 
—‘Srr Water RaLereoH ’’—who wants ‘red varieties and 
white varieties, both Kidney and Rounds, for exhibition” pur- 

poses, that he cannot do better at the present time than to 
* procure the Early American Rose, a flattish obtuse Kidney; 
and there is a rather early red round, rough-skinned Potato, 
which I often meet with wrongly shown as the Red Regent; it 
has various local aliases, but mostly bears the name of the Prince 
of Wales. If ‘‘ Sir Water” can secure it he will gain a fine 
model for a round red Potato, and well-flavoured, though it is 
yellow of flesh. The next shapely round, though a later and 
a larger sort, is Suttons’ Red-skin Flourball. 


Two models for exhibition, and really first-class second-early | 


white Potatoes, are Thomas Almond’s Yorkshire Hero, a flat 
obtuse Kidney, and Transell’s Seedling, Round. I have grown 
the latter as large as my child’s head, but that only happens 
when two or three tubers are found at one root, which often 
occurs in a breadth of this variety ; and then I know of no other 
sort that produces such perfect spheres, unless it be the Royal 
Albert, but that isa smaller, and altogether an inferior kind to 
Transell’s Seedling. It has always been a scarce kind, and 
should “Sir WatteR”’ find it difficult to procure, there is the 
King of Potatoes, whose feature is to ‘‘run out” in sample, 
and it would give him both Rounds and Kidneys suficiently 
large and shapely to suit. Rintoul’s New Harly White Don 
algo yields very fine round tubers, and it is withal one of the 
best modern sorts, a capital market and household Potato. 

I recommend the above sorts to be planted on good ground 
at the following distances apart between the rows :—Harly 
Rose, 24 feet; Prince of Wales, 34 feet; Suttons’ Red-skin 
Blourball, 34 feet; Almond’s Yorkshire Hero, 3 feet; Tran- 
sell’s Seedling, 24 feet; and the New Harly White Don, 33 feet. 
—Rosert Fen, Rectory, Woodstock. 


NOTES ON SILPHIUM LACINIATUM, Z. 
THE COMPASS PLANT. 
[Read before the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia.] 


Ir is at once the strength and the weakness of science that it 
takes little on trust. One would suppose that after the positive 
facts given by President Hill in his paper before the recent 
meeting of the American Association, there was no room for 
doubt that the edges of leaves of Silphium laciniatum had an 
average bearing north. But I find men—excellent acute ob- 
servers—who doubt the facts. They say, ‘‘ We took the trouble 
to examine the plants on the spot, and found not the slightest 
trace of any such tendency; we want no better evidence than 
that of our own senses.” 

As before suggested, it is an excellent habit to verify, for our- 
selves, the facts reported by others—there is far too little of 
this habit—but when the observations conflict, it is safer to 
assume that both are right, and that there is something yet 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


25 


undiscovered which would harmonise the opposition, than that 
either one is wrong. 

In this matter of the Silphium or ‘‘ Compass Plant,’ I wag 
are to find this missing link, and to see that both parties were 
right. 

When I first saw the Silphium to any great extent in its 
native localities, there was not the slightest indications of this 
northern tendency. It was a great surprise, as a limited know- 
ledge of it before had taught the reverse. I determined to 
watch a plant carefully on my own ground the next year. The 
result was just as described by President Hill. There was the 
unmistakeable northern tendency in the edges of the leaves 
when they first came up, and until they were large and heavy, 
when the winds and rains bore them in different directions, 
and they evidently had not the power of regaining the points 
lost. This often took place by their own weight alone, especi- 
ally in luxuriant specimens. Mr. Hill said it was in June 
when he saw them on the prairies, all bearing north; when I 
saw them, and not doing so, it was early in September, and 
then no doubt the mechanical causes I have referred to had 
been in operation. 

The plant I have had in my garden, now for some years, 
affords much interest in many respects. I learned a useful 
leason from it this year in reference to the relative rates of 
growth in the different parts of the inflorescence. Noticing 
that there appeared to be no growth in the disk florets in the 
day, I determined to note accurately, one morning during the 
last week in August, exactly when growth did commence. The 
ray flowers close over the disk during night, and at 4 a.w., with 
day just dawning in the east, I found the ray petals just com- 
mencing to open back. In the disk there are about fiiteen 
coils of florets in the spiral. There appeared no motion until 
4,40, although no doubt growth commenced at 4, when the ray 
petals were in motion, but too slow to be perceptible. At 
4.40, however, the five outer circles were evidently slightly 
elevated above the others in the disk. Then follows the follow- - 
ing record in my diary :— 

4.45, the five divisions of the corolla split open. 

4.50, corollas grown three thirty-seconds of an inch. 

4.55, divisions of corolla fully expanded. 

5, florets two-eighths above the rest of the disk. It might be well to 
say here, that there was no growth in any this morning but in the five 
outside rows we are speaking of. 

5.5, 5.10, no apparent change except that some which were not so 


| perfectly opened as the others seemed to become so. * 


5.15, pistil and masses of stamens slightly elevated above the level 
of the corolla. 

5.20, corollas now about five-sixteenths of an inch above the others: 
n disk. Pistils and stamens about two lines abovethe corollas. Long 
yellow ray petals half open, with no appearance of pollen on their pistils. 


From this time forward there was no further growth of the 
corolla, so that this portion of the daily labour was accom- 
plished in about three-quarters of an hour. 


5.25, pistils and stamens beyond the corolla 1-32 inch. 
5.30, , Bh Gnd Ups 
5.35, ” ” ” 1-8 ” 
5.40, 3-8 


” ” 

5.45, 5.50, no change. 

5.55, pistils begin to project beyond the stamens. The first insect, 
a sand wasp appears. He inserts his proboscis down between the 
clavate pistil and the stamens, carrying away the pollen, which is all 
over his head. 

6, 6.5, pistils one line, stamens no longer lengthen. 

6.10, anthers are falling away from the pistils, which are two lines 
beyond. 

6.15, no change. 

6.20, the ray petals now fully open, that is horizontal. 


No change was noticed after this, except the free visits of 
the sand wasp, none of these however, carried any pollen to 
the pistils in the ray florets. 

About 9 o’clock (there had not been the slightest indications 
of any growth since 6.20) heavier insects began to arrive, and 
then the slightest touch broke off the florets, which fell on the 
ray pistils which happened to be below them, and in this way 
they were fertilised. These pistils died very soon after. Those 
pistils on the upper side (the flower leaning a little) were quite 
fresh the next morning, awaiting some chance to be fertilised, 
insects evidently not performing that office. ' p 

We here see that there were three phases of growth, with a 
slight rest between each, the pistil taking the most time, then 
the stamens, and the corolla the least, but the whole growth 
of the day included within two hours. 

I haye used the word pistil for the clavate process which 


26 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


occupies the place of the true organ in perfect flowers. Of 
course only the ray florets of Silphium have perfect pistils. 
This clavate false pistil or ovary has hitherto been supposed 
to be ® necessary production for the fertilisation of the plant. 
It was supposed to push out the pollen, which was thereby 
scattered to the ray florets about it. But these observations 
show that this is probably an error, and that fertilisation is 
chiefly carried on by the easy falling away of the mass of 
stamens, as I have shown in a paper on Euphorbia jacquinie- 
flora in last year’s proceedings, is the case with that species. 

I am anxious to call particular attention to the different 
ratios of growth in connection with the appearance of the 
different floral organs in this plant; because I think I see 
traces of a general law in plants that there are vibrations or 
varying intensities during each season’s growth, and that the 
production of the various organs depends on the degrees of 
these vibrations.—THomas Merrsan.—(American Gardener's 
Monthly.) 


GRAPE GROWING IN SCOTLAND. 


Scornanp has of late years taken a leading position in the 
production of Grapes. This was first demonstrated at the 
Great Exhibition of Fruit held in Edinburgh in 1865, where 
many of the leading Grape-growers of Britain, and even France, 
pnt in an appearance, yet first honours were retained in Scot- 
land. Again, in 1869, we had another Grand International 
Exhibition in Edinburgh, when the triumph of the Scotch 
growers was as marked as before. 

These remarks, however, refer more particularly to Grapes 
grown in the gardens of the great of the land, and not to such 
ag are grown for commercial purposes. We have, however, to 
notice a notable step in advance in this latter direction also in 
Scotland. Some four or five years ago, Mr. Lindsay, of Dryden 
Bank and Physic Gardens, Edinburgh, who is a most exten- 
sive importer of every description of green fruit, built at his 


country residence two splendid vineries, each 160 feet long and | 


about 18 feet wide. These are built on what may be called the 
lean-to principle. Their construction and heating are of the 
most substantial character. Their borders were formed after 
the most approved method, and the results have been highly 
satisfactory—the crops of Grapes having given ample evidence 
that the foundation was well laid, and the after-management 
all that could be desired. We believe Mr. Thomson, of Dal- 
keith Park, was the architect of Mr. Lindsay’s vineries, and we 
are going to refer to what he is now doing in the same direction 
for himself in Selkirkshire, where he has feued land near the 
Clovenfords Station of the railway leading from Galashiels to 
Peebles, about three miles from Galashiels and one mile from 
the classic grounds of Ashiestiel, where Scott wrote the greater 
portion of ‘‘ Marmion,” and from which he dates many of the 
introductions to his cantos. We believe Mr. Thomson selected 
this spot because of the excellence of the soil for Grape-grow- 
ing, the supply of water, and the facility with which the fruit 
can be sent on to London by express trains from Galashiels. 
He has named his establishment The Tweed Vineyard, but 
Grapes are not the only fruit he means to produce; he has 
made arrangements for fruiting about a thousand Pines annu- 
ally, besides Melons, Cucumbers, and other fruits. It is but 
& year since he got possession of the ground, and those who 
have seen the place recently can only marvel at what has been 
done in so short a space of time. Hothouses have been erected 
requiring thirty tons of glass to glaze them, and three miles of 
hot-water pipes to heat them. 

The great central blocks of glass for the production of Grapes 
consist of three span-roofed houses, each 200 feet long, 24 feet 
wide, and 17 feet high. These are placed 24 feet apart, and 
parallel to each other, terminating at one end in a house run- 
ning along their ends and forming a corridor for them ; this 
corridor is of the same height, 135 feet long, and 25 feet wide, 
and in it are placed all the appliances by means of which the 
ventilation of the whole block of glass is effected; it is inter- 
esting to observe that this is done in as little time and with 
88 great ease as an ordinary three-light frame, such is the per- 
fection of the gear employed. Two of the long houses have 
eight rows of pipes in each, one has twelve rows, and the 
Corridor has ten rows. ‘This, with some connecting pipes, 
gives 7000 feet of 4-inch pipe, which is all heated by one 
boiler, of an entirely new constraction, which Mr. Thomson 
has had constructed of boiler plates. It might be called the 
telescope boiler, for it is some 20 feet long. The Vines are all 
of the most approved sorts. 

In addition to this grand block there is a pinery 120 feet 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 12, 1871. 


long and 13 feet wide against the boundary wall; another 
145 feet long and 13 feet wide; a third 200 feet long and 5 feet 
wide along the front of a Cucumber house of the same length 
and 13 feet wide. In addition to these there is a Pine pit in 
course of construction 200 feet long, and a plant house 100 feet 
long. The Cucumber house, it is calculated, will produce in 
four months three hundred dozen fruit—more, probably, than 
is consumed in Scotland in a whole year. 

The Vines with which the vineries have been planted were 
all struck from eyes and grown on the spot, and they have 
made such progress that about 3000 lbs. of Grapes may be ex- 
pected from them next summer by cropping a set of Vines 
called supernumeraries, which will be removed when the per- 
manent ones completely occupy the houses. Such extensive 
preparations for supplying the market with Grapes, when taken 
in connection with many similar establishments that exist, 
especially in England, must of necessity diminish the cost 
price of hothouse Grapes, and bring them within the reach of 
a class of the community from whom their cost hitherto has 
excluded them; and in this we rejoice, especially when we con- 
sider what a boon they must be to invalids and all who are of 
delicate constitutions, proving to them both food and drink 
when they often loathe everything else. 

We learn that Mr, Thomson hag resigned the situation he 
has held for so many years as gardener to his Grace the Duke 
of Buccleuch at Dalkeith, and in May wiil take the personal 
superintendence of The Tweed Vineyard. Mr. Thomson is 
well known to be the highest authority on Grape cultivation in 
this country, and in the foremost rank as a practical cultivator. 
The important enterprise now undertaken on the banks of the 
Tweed could not have been inaugurated under more auspicious 
circumstances.—(Daily Mail.) 


SLOW COMBUSTION—ECONOMY OF FUEL. 


For ‘A. Y.’s” information (see page 8) I may state that the 
valve is fixed on the ashpit, and not on the furnace door, 
and that both doors fit quite closely. Although the valve 
answers admirably, yet I quite agree with Mr. Fish that a 
single hole with a screw valve would be preferable to my sliding 
valve, as I think it could be more accurately regulated. I had 
an opportunity only last week of observing the working of one 
in a close stove in a large warehouse, and saw at a glance that 
it was preferable to my sliding valve. Nevertheless, I have 
no fault to find with my present plan. It has been fairly 
tested during the present severe frost, and it has proved to be 
all I could desire in its results. 

It was only the other day that the builder (a2 nurseryman). 
who constructed my house called, when I asked him to look at 
the furnace. Upon seeing the fire he immediately remarked, 
“That's capital; it is perfect; you cannot want anything to 
work better.” It was then half-past 9 4.m., and the fire had 
been made up at half-past 8 the previous night, and had con- 
sequently been burning for thirteen hours, and still was a good 


fire. The thermometer showed at the time 16° of frost in 
the external atmosphere. The glass inside the house stood 
at 40°. 


The fire was made up last night at a quarter-past 9; at half- 
past 9 this morning there was still a good tire. The thermo- 
meter inside the house marked 45°. The frost during the 
night had not exceeded 4°. I mention these particulars to. 
show how the plan has worked during this severe weather. 

In stating the quantity of fuel used to burn the length of 
time I have mentioned, I will give my experience as correctly 
as may be. Icannot give the quantity of coal, but ‘A, Y.” will 
probably be able to form a tolerably accurate estimate. He 
must bear in mind that I use a tubular boiler of ihe smallest 
size, and that I burn anthracite coal only. The boiler is fixed 
about 6 or 7 inches above the firebars, and the diameter of tha 
furnace below the boiler is about 21 inches. 

When I make up the fire for the night I fill up to about 
4 inches above the bottom of the tubes in the inner circle of 
the boiler. The fire in the space between the outside of the 
tubes and the brickwork is below the boiler; the fuel, in fact, 
forms a flat-topped cone-shaped mass. Were! to fill up higher 
than I have stated, the heat would be too great. My con- 
sumption of coal is as nearly as possible half a ton per month. 
I may add that since I have used anthracite coal I have neyer 
been troubled with clinkers; the firebars are always clear. 

I should, perhaps, mention that the inside course of brick- 
work in the furnace is made of firebricks. 


I hope this information may be of use to “A. Y.” He must 


January 12, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 27 


remember that I only give the result of my experience with 
one kind of boiler and one description of fuel. Ido not pre- 
tend to state that similar results would follow with different 
materials to work with. I merely give my experience, and how 
obtained. 

From observation I am disposed to think that if [ had to 
construct another furnace I should make the space greater 
between the boiler and the firebars ; instead of 7 I would make 
it 12 or 14 inches, contracting the sides towards the bottom. 
By this plan, as the fire burnt out, it would drop closer together, 
and keep burning, instead of going out, as it does in broad- 
bottomed furnaces. The quantity of fuel consumed would not 


be greater than, probably not so much as in the ordinary way 
of setting furnaces. 

I remember the old-fashioned circular-bottomed stoves used 
in bedrooms. As the fuel burnt the fire dropped down closer, 
and kept bright for a long time; whereas, with the modern 
broad flat-bottomed stoves, the fuel is soon burnt right out. 
If something like the principle of these old-fashioned grates 
were applied to greenhouse furnaces, making them for slow 
combustion, as great or greater results would be obtained with 
less trouble and a smaller consumption of fuel. 

Does Mr. Fish think a screw-valve in the fireplace would be 
an improvement ?—R. 8. 


. 


GROUND LEVELLING AND PRACTICAL GARDEN PLOTTING.—No. 11. 
DRAWING PLANS. 


To draw and transfer jig. 34 to the ground, form the rectangle 
ABCD; draw the diameter lines EF and cu, also the diagonal 
lines Ac and BD; draw the other lines 1 2, 3 4, &c. (being 
parallel to either diameter or diagonal lines); draw the circle 
from centre o, also the arcs as shown inc and d. 

To transfer the figure to the ground, lay a line from 4 to z, 
the distance be- 
ing 41 feet 6 
inches, also from 
B to c, being 
62 feet; lay the 
line from cto pD, 
which is equal to 
line A B, lay the 
line from p to A, 
which is equal to 
line B C; insert 
a stake at each 
point. Lay the 
diameter lines 5 
F and GH, insert 
a stake at each 
point; also lay 
the diagonal 
lines Acand BD. 
From the stake 
at point A mea- 
sure 2 feet on 
line AB, insert a 
peg as at point 1; 


15 16, 2122. Lay lines connecting pegs 15 16, 17 15, 19 20, 
and 21 22. On each side of diameter line G@ H measure 
18 inches, and insert pegs as at points 56,78. From the 
stakes in points c H measure 3 feet 6 inches, insert pegs as at 
points 3 4,910. Lay lines connecting pegs 3 4, 5 6, 78, 9 10. 
On each side of the diagonal lines Ac and zB D measure 2 feet, 
as shown: in 
points o and D; 
extend {line B A 
to b, which is 
2 feet, insert a 
peg as at point 
b; extend line p 
c to a, and in- 
serta peg as at 
point a; lay a 
line from peg 0 
to the) peg at. 
point= 12, and 
from the peg at 
point 1 to the 
peg at point a. 
From stakes 5 
and p find corre- 
sponding points 
tob 12 andla; 
lay the corre- 
sponding lines. 
Extend the line 
AB to wu, which 


also from stake 


is 4 feet 3 inches, 


A measure 2 feet 


and insert a peg 


on line ap, and 
insert a peg as at 


as at point w. 
From the stake 


point 23. From 


at point B mea- 


stake B measure 
2 feet on lines A, 
and insert a peg 
as at point 11; 
also from stake 
B measure 2 feet 
on line B c, and 
insert peg as at 
point 24, From 
stake c measure 
2 feet on line c 
B, and ingert peg 
as at point 14; 
also from stake c 
measure 2 feet 
on line cp, and 
insert peg as at 
point 12. From 
stake D measure 
2 feet on line 
D Cc, and insert 
peg as at point 
2; from stake 
D measure 2 feet 


sure 4 feet 3 
inches on line 
B A, and insert 
a peg as at point 


(J—9) 40) ,o—0) 
35H 7 9 
Fig. 34. Scale 12 feet to the inch. 


r. Extend line 
c p to s, which 
is 4 feet 3 inches, 
and insert a peg 
as at point s. 
From stake bD 
measure 4 feet 
3 inches on line 
D c, and insert 
peg as at point 
t. Then lay a 
line from peg r 
to peg s, and 
from peg # to 
peg u. From 
the stakes at 
points a c find 
the correspond- 
ing points tors 
and tw, and lay 


2 Si) te u“ 


on line D 4, and insert peg as at point 13. Lay lines con- | the corresponding lines. From the centre, with a string 9 feet 
necting peg 12, 1112, 13 14, and 23 24. On each side of | 6 inches long trace ares c,c,c,c; reduce the string 2 feet, and 


the diameter line = Fr measure 18 incheg, and insert pegs as at 
points 1718, 1920. From the stakes at points r on each 
side measure 3 feet 6 inches, and insert pegs as at points 


trace ares d, d, d, d, d, d,d,d; reduce the string 3 feet, and 
trace the circle 9 feet in diameter. Lay lines to the ares 
(with pegs as before described), also to the circle, which com- 


28 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 12, 1871 


plete the figure. The points where the lines cross each other 
are the angles of the beds and grass verges. “B, beds; g, grass; 
w, walks.—M. O'Donnetu, Gardener to E. Leeming, Esq., 
Spring Grove, Richmond. 


ORNAMENTAL VARIETIES OF OUR NATIVE 
PLANTS. 


I wave been looking out amongst our British plants for orna- 
mental and variegated forms, or any departure from the normal 
condition, with a view to selecting such as may be thought 
worthy of a place in our gardens. I have been rewarded with 
many interesting varieties of Grasses, Veronicas, Lamiums, 
Glechomas, &c. The variety of Malva sylvestris called crispa 
must become a favourite winter-garnishing plant, as I see the 
French Mallow is cut-up with the frost, and my Mallow will 
stand any amount of cold without injury. The Grass, which 
I think is Poa annua, is considerably shorter in its growth and 
flower stems than Poa trivialis argentea. I have also a new 
Dactylis glomerata, the whole foliage assuming a creamy-white 
tint in the spring, but not so good in the summer, and a 
Phieum pratense aureo-variegatum, which is very ornamental 
during the summer. I was the raiser of Bull’s Holcus lanatus 
variegatus, Alopecurus pratensis variegatus, and Phleum pra- 
tense albo-marginatum; also Henderson’s Lamium aureum, 
and Thymus citriodorus aureus, and a new variety of Sedum 
acre, and of Helianthemum vulgare, to be sent out by a London 
firm as soon as sufficient stock shall have been raised. 

My stock of new British plants comprises some one hundred 
sorts of greater or less merit, and I can assure you that 
my wanderings in search of novelties have been a labour of 
love. Some of these plants have besn propagated from the 
most trifling beginnings. The Mallow, for instance, I dis- 
covered on the wayside at Old Charlton, Kent, with only one 
curly leaf upon the plant. I dug it up, potted it, and it pro- 
duced another curly leaf or two, all the rest of the foliage being 
perfectly plain. I gathered the seeds from the side of the 
shoot with the curly leaves, and they produced a progeny with 
some plants all curly, some all plain, and some partly curled ; 
but the parts of partially-curled plants that were curled were ag 
well curled as the plants that were all curled, and I find that 
the all-curled plants come perfectly true from seeds. Being 
very prolific it will make a cut-and-come-again garnishing 
plant from the autumn till late in the spring, when it loses 
all its crispness and cannot be distinguished from the normal 
state till the autumn again comes round. 

I have also a new gold-striped Lily of the Valley, and several 
beautiful forms of Arum maculatum—yviz., aurec-marginatum, 
and albo-marginatum. 

My plants are all original and collected by myself, and al- 
though there have been varieties of variegated plants, such as 
Glechoma and Veronica, found before, there are in every fresh 
one differences which are very interesting —Wu. Huuiorr. 


a [We hope to hear often from Mr. Elliott on this subject.— 
DS. | 


THE METROPOLITAN FLORAL SOCIETY. 


Ir will, Tam sure, interest some of your readers to know 
what progress we are making in our attempt to bring more 
prominently into notice those favourites, yclept florists’ flowers, 
which we believe have been too much shoved out of the way 
by things more easily managed, but, we think, not half so 
beautiful. 

I need not say that there was an immense difficulty in or- 
ganising a new Society; for many would be ready to imagine 
that it was the result of spleen, and, asI had had a pretty 
continuous fight with the existing Societies (especially with the 
Royal Horticultural Society, on what I honestly believed to be 
blunders and mismanagement), that in a spirit of opposition I 
had originated this movement. As I felt perfectly at ease on 
this score I did not much care what some might think, so long 
as the point we had in view was gained. The liberality with 
which our advances were met by the Crystal Palace Company, 
and the kind thoughtful manner in which the arrangements 
were carried out by Mr. Wilkinson, tended to make our first 
show the most successful autumn exhibition ever held in the 
metropolis. Thus encovraged we have made another move. 
We felt that it would never do to originate separate exhibitions 
—that would haye had the appearance of opposition; moreover, 


we could not have made them sufliciently attractive, and we | 


could not run the risk of failure. We therefore folt that it 


would be better to connect our prizes with some existing ma- 
chinery. The months in which we proposed to offer prizes 
were April for Auriculas, May for Tulips and Pausies, June for 
Ranunculuses and Pinks, and July for Carnations and Picotees. 
In the first and last of these months it was decided that it 
would be desirable to connect our exhibitions with the Royal 
Horticultural Society, and in May and June we felt that there 
was no choice left, as the-Crystal Palace Company had offered 
to help us materially in our prize list. Communications were 
opened with the Council of the Royal Horticultural Society, 
and arrangements were made advantageous to both. The Royal 
Horticultural Society will gain the advantage of having, we 
hope, an attractive addition made to two of their minor shows, 
while we shall gain a place to exhibit our flowers where they 
will be seen by many lovers of flowers. 

These preliminaries having been arranged, a meeting of the 
Committee was held at St. James’s Hall on Tuesday the 3rd 
inst. to determine what was to be done. The Committee felt 
that it would be very unwise to venture too much. Societies 
are often vigorously taken up at first, and then people cool on 
them ; and if plans are arranged on the larger scale, then there 
comes the necessity of clubbing together to pay debts—a most 
unprofitable proceeding. Hence if the schedules of prizes agreed 
upon may seem to be small after so much talking about them, 
let it be remembered that our motto is ‘‘festina lente,” freely 
translated, ‘‘ Slow and sure goes far in a day.” 

I should add that the Royal Horticultural Society have con- 
sented to the Society having their own judges. We propose, 
therefore, to offer the following prizes to be competed for by 
members of the Metropolitan Floral Society alone :— 

In April—6 Auriculas (amateurs)... 

a as: Green edge (open 


Grey edge (open) . 
1 do. White edge (open) . dao 

Ado (Self\(open)fesn socicoteice eines 

In May—36 Pansies (open) ...... 
24 do. (amateurs).... 

12 Fancy Pansies ...... 

36 Tulips (open).... 

12 do. (amateurs) 

In June—24 Pinks (open) .... 
12 do. (amateurs) 

24 Ranunculus (open) 

12)ido-7 (amateurs) | so. .jois cisicieiete cis 

In July—12 Carnations (amateurs) .......... 
12 Picotees (amateurs) 


10s. 
The prizes offered at the autumn show will be on the same 


liberal scale as last year. Having thus explained our present 
position, I hope that we shall receive such additional encou- 
ragement as will enable us another season to place a more 
liberal scale of prizes for the florists to compete for. Our 
object is not only to encourage those who already cultivate 
florists’ flowers, but also to induce others to attempt or recom- 
mence their culture.—D., Deal. 


A MAMMOTH BLACKBERRY ORCHARD. 


One of the most interesting calls we have made this year 
was to the great Blackberry patch of John S. Collins. The 
following, from the Practical Farmer, gives an excellent idea 
of things as we saw them. 

We visited about the middle of the past month, approaching 
but not quite at the height of the picking, the large Blackberry 
patch of our friend, John S. Collins, near Merchantville, New 
Jersey, about four miles from Camden. It comprises seventy- 
five acres, all planted in Blackberries, and now bearing pro- 
fusely, but far yet from being up to its maximum production. 
They were planted mostly three and four years ago. 

The day of our visit, 7000 quarts had been picked; 14,000 
quarts were fully expected the day following, which would be a 
full day’s work for the hands employed, who, when we saw 
them, were quietly resting or lounging about under the shade of 
trees, and recruiting for the morrow—7000 quarts being about 
half a day’s work. A visitor to this patch would at once be 
satisfied that there is many a homely adage less truthful than 
the very trite one, ‘as plenty as Blackberries.” Here were 
seventy-five acres occupied with nothing else than Blackberry 
plants—thousands of the bushes bending nearly to the ground 
under their weight of fruit. The rows were 8} feet apart, and the 
plants 4 feet to44in the rows. The tillage had been excellent, 
no weeds at all to be seen, for the simple reason, we presumed, 
without asking the question, that the berries brought a better 
price in the market than weeds, and the proprietor, being essen- 
tially a practical man, had given the strength of the soil and 
the labour of cultivation to the crop which brought in the most 


January 12, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 29 


4 


money. People’s mental organisations differ widely, as also 
their reasoning processes and conclusions. This was indicated 
by a field adjoining the Blackberries, where the owner had eyi- 
dently concluded that the crop for him to raise was ‘‘mullens.” 
We have seen no ‘‘ mullen ” crop equal to them this season, and 
think we never saw a better one anywhere. They have grown 
6 feet high, without any expense of cultivation. The inference 
we drew was, that a ‘‘mullen” soil was also favourable for 
Blackberries. 

By far the largest portion of the Blackberries were the variety 
known as Wilson’s Harly. This seedling, of a few years since, 
ranks in importance with the Philadelphia Raspberry. It is 
the best Blackberry out, has been tested thoroughly, differs 
from the Lawton in being ripe when black, is of good size, 
melting, and juicy, which, with its earliness, being the first in 
the market and treading closely on the heels of the Raspberry 
crop, always secures the best price. 

J. S. Collins was receiving 20 cents per quart, wholesale 
price, at the time of our visit, which, with 14,000 quarts, make 
the round little sum of 2800 dols. for one day’s picking. Can 
the ‘“‘mullen ” grower show as large a record? 

One of the most interesting features of the business, to us, 
was the quiet, thorough, and systematic manner in which 
everything was done. Hach row had a marked stake at the end. 
Hand A undertakes to pick rows 55 and 56—was so marked 
by the clerk in his book, and they were required to pick 
them clean, and to go back if they were not so. The price 
paid for picking was 1} cent per quart, and a constant super- 
vision being exercised over the work, the hands soon discovered 
it was easier to pick a row thoroughly than to have to go back. 
Very few cases occur where they are so continually careless as to 
require to be discharged. The average is 100 to 150 quarts 
per day to each hand, but they sometimes run up to 200 quarts 
per day. 

While a harvest was being evidently reached by the intelli- 
gent end far-seeing projector of this Blackberry patch, it was 
also no less a Blackberry festival for the hands employed. On 
inquiry where they were from, we were surprised to find them 
to have come mostly from that aristocratic (?) portion of Phila- 
delphia, Bedford Street. Is it possible, thought we, thus to 
utilise Bedford Street ? Here were one to two hundred hands 
employed, of what is known as the very scum of creation, men 
with their wives and children, gathered about in clumps; and 
in passing among them, we did not hear « profane or improper 
word, all quiet and orderly. The change from damp and 
crowded cellars and filthy dens and alleys, to the green grass 
and pure air and beautiful treés of the country, where all 
Nature was pleasant, and the birds sang merrily, most evidently 
impressed and reached the latent spark of these depraved 
specimens of humanity. As they stay over the Sabbath, what 
a place and an opportunity for those rightly qualified to give 
religious labour for operating on such a, class. 

As the filled boxes are brought up to the clerk, 3-ct. or a 
larger denomination of tickets are given out, which are always 
good for the money whenever asked for. The ticket system 
undoubtedly induces them to save till toward the end of the 
Season. 

A large open shed is erected, with rough tables and benches, 
which may be called the restaurant, where plain meals are 
cooked, and provisions sold, of course with the entire absence 
of intoxicating liquors. The barn as well as shanties erected 
about, are used to lodge in; and there can he no doubt the 
hands return, when the season is over, improved in mind, body, 
and estate.—(American Gardener's Monthly.) 


THE CANDELABRA-FLOWERED LARKSPUR. 


I vo not very much affect annuals, although some of them 
are remarkably handsome, but one was sent to me last year by 
Mesers. Dick Radclyffe & Co. under a name quite sufficient to 
deter anyone from growing it—Delphinium Consolidum cande- 
labrum flore-pleno. However, I tried it, and can conscientiously 
recommend it as one of the prettiest things I know in its way. 
Tt is dwarf, and the arrangement of the branchlets is exactly 
like that of a candelabrum. They go out horizontally from the 
stem, and then the flower stands up in a perpendicular position. 
It is of various shades of colour, and altogether it is a very 
great addition to our pretty annuals.—D., Deal. 


Frost anp Snow in Norronx.—Snow 1 foot deep. The ther- 
mometer (Negreiti’s) registered on December 24th, zero; on 


) December 25th, 4° below zero. 


The thickness of the ice on the 
lake on December 26th was 5 inches. ‘This is the coldest 
weather we have experienced here since December 25th, 1860,— 
Wu. Surtue, The Gardens, Elmham. 


PORTRAITS. OF PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND 
FRUITS. 


ONCIDIUM TIGRINUM var. SPLENDIDUM (Splendid Tiger-marked 
Oncid). Nat. ord.,-Orchidacex. Linn., Gynandria Monandria. 
—Native of the Irapwan Mountains, Mexieo. Flowers pale 
yellow striped with brown.—(Bot. Mag., t. 5878.) 

PAULLINIA THALICTRIFoLIA (Thalictrum-leaved Paullinia). 
Nat. ord., Sapindacer. Linn., Octandria Trigynia.—A stove 
climber with graceful Davallia-like leaves. Native of Rio de 
Janeiro, Brazil.—(Ibid., t. 5879.) 

Aristonocuia Ducuartrer (Duchartre’s Birthwort). 
ord., Avistolochiacese, Linn., Gynandria Hexandria.—Native of 
the Upper Amazons. Flowers cream-coloured, thickly blotched 
with reddish brown.—(Ibid., t. 5880.) 

H2MANTHUS TENUIFLORUS var. CoccINEUS (Crimson Slender- 
flowered Hemanthus). Nat. ord.,Amaryllidacee. Linn., Hex- 
andria Monogynia.—Native of Abyssinia. Flowers crimson.— 
(Idid., t. 5881.) 

ASYSTASIA VIOLACEA (Violet-coloured Asystasia). Nat. ord., 
Acanthacez. Linn., Didynamia Angiospermia.—Native of Con- 
can, western Peninsular India. Flowers pale purple with 
white border.—(Ibid., t. 5882.) 

Prar—Brockworth Park.— Messrs. J. C. Wheeler & Son, of 
Gloucester, have acquired the stock, and it was obtained by 
them from Mr. Lawrence, of Brockworth Park. It is, as we 
understand, a seedling raised at that place, one of its parents 
being the well-known and highly-esteemed Louise Bonne of 
Jersey. 

‘« The Brockworth Park Pear is a fruit of large size, the spe- 
cimens figured measuring 6} inches in length and 93 inches in 
circumference. Its form is oblong-pyriform, blunt and rather 
unequal at the base, with a stout ebliquely inserted stalk about 
an inch long, set in a shallow basin, and having a small closed 
eye, with prominent pointed calyx segments. The skin is 
smooth, pale greenish yellow, slightly dotted, and with a deli- 
cate irregular tinting of red on the exposed parts. The flesh 
is very tender, fine-grained, and melting, with abundant rich 
vinous juice, the flavour very much resembling that of its 
parent, the Jersey Louise Bonne; but the fruit is much larger 
and handsomer than in that variety. It comes into use about 
the middle or end of September. 

“ The tree is described as being hardy, of ornamental growth, 
and a very free bearer, young pyramids each producing as many 
as twenty fine Pears. When grown against a wall the fruits 
are said to average 12 ozs.in weight. Altogether we have here, 
in the words of one of our leading pomologists, ‘a new Pear 
of the highest merit, taking rank with the finest of our old- 
established yarieties, and one which, extensive as our list of 
good Pears already is, must yet be added to our collections.’ ”— 
(Florist and Pomologist, 3 8., iv. 1.) 


Nat. 


NOTABLE PEARS. 


Autumn JostpHine.—A seedling from Joséphine de Malines. 
This fine Pear rivals its parent in all its excellencies, and differs 
only in the season at which it ripens. 

The fruit is even and regular in its outline, turbinate, and 
somewhat flattened at the crown. The skin is greenish yellow 
when quite ripe, and strewn with patches of thin pale brown 
russet, and with a russet patch round the stalk. Eye open, 
with short erect segments, and set in a shallow depression. 
Stalk three-quarters of an inch long, woody, and inserted with- 
out depression. Flesh yellowish, with a pale salmon tinge, 
like that of Joséphine de Malines, tender, fine-grained, and 
very juicy. Juice rich, sugary, and with a fine aromatic flavour. 

A fine Pear, ripe in the middle of October, and lasting about 
a fortnight. 4 

This valuable native acquisition was obtained from seed by 
W. E. Essington, Esq., of Ribbesford House, Bewdley. The 
seed, which was obtained from Joséphine de Malines, was sown 
in the year 1856, and scions from the seedling were grafted on 
the stock of a worthless Pear tree, which had been cut down in 
1861. The tree is an excellent grower, and has formed a large 
head, bearing two bushels of fruits, and it first produced fruit 
in 1869 


30 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 12, 1871. 


CassaNTE pu Comice.—Fruit roundish, or Bergamot-shaped, 
a little uneyen on its surface. 


Autumn Joséphine. 

colour, considerably covered with rough brown russet, which 
leaves large patches of the ground colour visible. Eye partially 
closed, with incurved segments, and set in a considerable de- 
pression. Stalk 14 inch long, curved, and with a large swollen 
fleshy base, the upper part woody. Flesh yellowish, coarse- 
grained, crisp, and very juicy, with a rich, sweet, sugary juice. 

A first-rate dessert Pear, ripe in the last week of September. 


Cassante du Comice. 


This was raised by the Horticultural Society of Angers, and 
I received it from M. André Leroy of that city. 

Ganset’s Szeckne.—Thongh one of the very best of our native 
Pears, this is one which is little known and very seldom met 
with. Itis one of the seedlings of the late Mr. Williams, of 
Pitmaston, to whom we are indebted for so many excellent new 
fruits. It was obtained by crossing the Seckle with Gansel’s 
Bergamot, and hence its name. 

Fruit not unlike the Seckle in shape, and also with much of 
the character of Gansel’s Bergamot on a small scale. The skin 
has a solid bright crimson cheek next the sun, which shades off 


to yellow on the opposite side ; the shaded side is covered with 


Skin of a dull yellow ground | a thin smooth crust of cinnamon-coloured russet, and the crim- 


son cheek is strewed with distinct dots of grey russet. Eye 
small and closed, with erect acute segments, set in a narrow 


Gansel’s Seckle, 

and considerable basin. Stalk generally short and stout, but 
sometimes three-quarters of an inch long, inserted in a narrow 
and rather deep cavity. Flesh yellowish, rather coarse-grained 
and gritty, with a sweet, abundant, and very richly-sugared 
juice, and a high perfume, but not so much so as in Seckle. 

A first-rate Pear, ripe in the beginning of November. 

Maup Hoac.—The fortunate raiser of that excellent Apple 
Mannington’s Pearmain has been equally successful in raising 


A 


Maud Hogg. 

a number of seedling Pears, some of which will, we have no 
doubt, become established varieties in British gardens. A native 
of the Weald of Sussex, where no more uncongenial soil and 
climate for delicate varieties of fruits could be found, this new 


31 


January 12, 1871. ] 


gain of Mr. Mannington’s, which we now describe, has proved 
itself to be an autumn Pear of great excellence. 

The fruit is above the medium size and oblong-oboyate. The 
skin is entirely covered with a crust of warm brown russet like 
that of the Brown Beurré, and has 2 slight orange glow on the 
side exposed to the sun very much like the Chaumontel ; there 
is no yellow or ground colour visible. Eye open, with very 
short segments, and set in an irregular ribbed depression. Stalk 
an inch long and rather slender, inserted without depression. 
Flesh yellowish white, tender and buttery, very juicy, sweet, 
and richly flavoured. 

A dessert Pear of the first quality. In use from the end of 
October and beginning of November till December. 

The seed was sown about sixteen years ago, and the tree has 
borze fruit this year for the first time.—(Gardeners’ Year Book, 
1871.) 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 
Wotxre there is a family of taste to be supplied, perhaps no 
department requires more energy and forethought than tbis, 
because the demand is constant throughout the year. We 
have not only to look at precent wants, but must have regard 
to the future. Now is the time to do so. Manuring and 
trenching as fast as the crops are cleared off will still be the 
principal work here; turn over compost heaps during the 
frost, and procure a fresh supply if needful. Draining—an 
important matter in flat damp situations—should be done 
when opportunity offers. A well-drained garden is generally 
a productive one. If Box edgings are used, repair them if 
necessary in open weather. If they have grown large and un- 
sightly, reduse them by relaying. This is done by clearing 
away the gravel, &c., digging the ground, picking out any 
stones or roots of the old Box, then treading the soil firm, 
levelling with the spade, cutting out a neat line, and placing 
the Box (after reducing it to small plants), in the opening, leav- 
ing an inch or two above ground. Make the soil level over the 
roots, and level the gravel to it, keeping the rough part down- 
wards, and making smooth and firm on the surface. Large 
edgings are unsightly and shelter snails, &c. Every vacant 
space should be turned up to expose the soil to the action of 
the weather, either by trenching and laying it up in ridges, or 
by deeply digging and laying it up in the same way. If manure 
cannot be dug into the ground, rather than have it wasted by 
exposure, throw a covering of earth over the surface to prevent 
evaporation till it can be used. If snow should be on the 
ground, it should not be dug in, as it would keep the soil cold 
and wet for a long time. See that previous directions rre 
carried out; if not, embrace the first opportunity when the 
state of the soil will admit. It is bad policy to tread upon 
trenched ground when saturated with wet, and the delay of a 
day or two will often be found a gain. To guard against possi- 
bilities, sow in pots or boxes, or on strips of turf, a moderate 
quantity of early Peas and Long-pod Beans for transplanting. 
Place them in a vinery at work, or a house where there is a 
gentle heat, and when about an inch high remove them toa 
cold frame secure from frost to be hardened off. Sow Onions 
in a warm corner for early spring use, and plant out small 
ones of last year’s growth for the same purpose, and to bulb 
for kitchen use. Plant out Shallots and Garlic in light rich 
soil. Draw a small drill and fill it with charcoal dust or 
charred refuse, and lay the bulbs on it, but do not cover them; 
they will by-and-by require aslight pressing down. See that 
the fermenting material round Sea-kale does not become too 
hot ; begin in time, and give it a slow gentle heat or you will 
have it as weak as straws. Cover up a succession, taking care 
to place pots or a substitute over the crowns to keep it apart 
from the fermenting matter, for notwithstanding covering with 
leaves and ashes without pots, nothing seems to entirely do 
away with the earthy flavour which it thus acquires. Spinach 
appears to have suffered much from the frost; let all decayed 
leaves be carefully removed, and the ground stirred the first 
Opportunity. Keep a succession of Small Salading sown in 
pots or boxes, and attend to the proteeiion of Lettuces, Endive, 
Radishes, and Cauliflowers in severe weather. 


FRUIT GARDEN. 

If not done in the autumn prepare and wheel in soil for fruit 
trees which are to be removed, or which are intended for filling- 
up vacancies on the walls. This, however, is far better done 
at the fall of the leaf. See that the drainage of the border is 
perfect. Continue pruning and nailing in favourable weather, 


and as fast as the trees on the wall are completed manure the 
border and turn it up. The quantity and quality of the manure 
must depend upon the crops taken from the borders ; it is never 
advisable to plant any very exhausting crops on them, but I 
am aware that in many gardens doing so can hardly be avoided, 
and where this is the case, fresh soil and manure must be 
added. A great objection to digging-in manure on fruit borders 
where the roots can take hold of it is, that it causes unfruitful 
luxuriance, but unless cropping the borders can be altogether 
dispensed with, it can hardly be avoided. 


FLOWER GARDEN. 

As soon as the frost ceases, any ornamental planting neces- 

sary should be preceeded with. Clean, dress, and dig borders, 

and renew soil where necessary, for the reception of gay flowers. 

Stations on the lawn may also be prepared for tree Roses or 

ornamental shrubs, remembering not to carry the dotting 
system so far as to destroy what the painter calls breadth. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

A day temperature of 55° will be quite sufficient here at pre- 
sent; if this cannot be maintained without strong fires, be 
coutent with 45° and moderate fires, remembering that with 
this low temperature a very small circulation or motion in the 
air will suffice. A higher degree of heat would hurry the 
beautiful Camellias and other choice flowers past their bloom- 
ing period, and create a necessity for the application of more 
atmospheric moisture, whicb, unless a warm roof is secured 
by covering, must end in drip, to the great prejudice of the 
delicate blossoms. Those who possess only one small green- 
house, and are desirous of a variety of early flowers, may now 
introduce from the cold frame or pit a few of the early Dutch 
bulbs, provided the pots are full of roots, without which the 
application of heat is vain. Tney should -be kept in the 
darkest part of the house, or what will be more congenial to 
their habits, covered overhead with a mound of soil. The two 
points are easily accomplished by first piling a mound (moss - 
would do), and then inyertinga pot over the whole. The Wind 
or Poppy Anemone, establisbed in pots, makes a pleasing 
variety ; also the dark Wallflowers, as well as the French 
Yellow. Let all plants of a hardy nature have a place close to 
the front glass, with air at every opportunity. Some of the 
plants named in the directions for the forcing pit may also be 
introduced here if there be room, provided such are well- 
established in their pots. 

STOVE. 

Little advance in temperature may be permitted here at pre- 
sent; wait for an increase of light, without which the applica- 
tion of heat and moisture will be vain. Let 60° without sun 
be the maximum, sinking 4° or 5° in the night. Some of the 
Lelias and Cattleyas will commence rooting; let them have 
attention and encouragement. Cymbidium sinense is a most 
ueeful plant for the drawing-room; the scent is most delicious. 
A thorough baiting for snails and vermin should take place 
previous to potting. 

FORCING PIT. 

In the tank forcing pit the following plants may be now 
introduced with every prospect of success, if they are in good 
order :—Francisceas, Gardenias, Hedychiums, Gesneras, Phajus, 
Daphnes, Chorozemas, Clerodendrons, Pultenas, Correas, Cy- 
tisus, Eranthemums, Honeysuckles, Sweet Briar, Roses, Lilacs, 
Azaleas, Dutch bulbs, Acacias, Pinks, especially Anne Boleyn, 
Aloysia citriodora, Hydrangeas, and Heliotropes. It is not 
meant that these are all equally eligible for forcing, but that 
any or all of them may be attempted if well prepared for the 
purpose in the previous summer by early growth, early rest, 
and making a potful of healthy rcots. With such a miscel- 
laneous mixture it is evident that no extreme of atmospheric 
management should be pursued. The amount of moisture 
which the Gardenias, for instance, would revel in would prove 
prejudicial to such plants as the Heliotrope. A day heat of 
60° or 65° will suffice at present, sinking the temperature at 
night to 50° or 55°.—W. Kane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


Arrer a severe frost on the night of the 5th the thaw com- 
menced very suddenly during the day of the 6th, and on the 
morning of the 7th hardly a patch of snow was to be seen, but, 
instead, many lakelets were visible, as the ground beneath was 
so hard that the melted snow could not at once sinkin. The 
sudden melting of the snow will help to fill many a pond, which 
will be useful in this district, where in summer there is a 


(JL) 
bo 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER, [ January 12, 1871. 


general scarcity of water. As the sun shone brightly for a time 
on the 6th, we were glad to give a peep of light to Violets, Cal- 
ceolaria cuttings, and Radishesin cold pits that had had scarcely 
a peep of light for a fortnight. Some things rather tender, or 
where there were the least signs of the frost, were left with a 
slight covering all dey, so as to become gradually inured to the 
full light, as alluded to last week. Thanks to a little litter 
which we saved from stable dung in summer, the frost has done 
us but little injury as yet, for the most forward Cabbages, &c., 
were protected by snow. 
EITCHEN GARDEN. 

Here work was reduced toa minimum, as beyond wheeling 
nothing could be done. A little litter was shaken over Broccoli 
as the snow began to move off, to keep the heads from the sun 
until they were thoroughly thawed. Young Cauliflowers were 
not uncovered wntil Saturday. Forward Lettuces a little 
frosted will have comparative darkness until the beginning of 
the week. The excessive frost taught us also the importance 
of looking before us. We should have liked to have taken up 
for the Mushroom house more Sea-kale, Rhubarb, Asparagus, 
&c., but the ground was too hard to permit of this being done 
with anything like justice to the roots. We generally keep 
some taken up well covered in a cool place, to be taken for use 
as needed; but the winters on the whole have lately been so 
mild thet we neglected to have much in reserve, and we should 
have felt it if the weather had continued a fortnight or three 
weeks longer, which would have been nothing strange in the 


years of our boyhood. In another year we shall most likely | 
If we can obtain a supply in the begin- 


have more in reserve. 
ning of the week we shall not suffer anything. 

We have mentioned Asparagus above, as if for growing in a 
darkish Mushrcom house. We do not generally do so, as for 
roots taken up to force we prefer a box with a slight hotbed 
beneath it, so thet the young shoots may be alike tender and 
green from the full light enjoyed. 
fine Asparagus by placing the roots on heat in a Mushroom 
house or other dark place, cutting them when of the proper 
size, then setting them in a saucer with just a little water 
at the bottom, packed in damp moss for 2 inches of their height, 
and exposing the top to full light for two or three days in a 
house averaging from 50° to 55° or 60° in temperature. The 
tops thus treated become nice and green. It is a mistake in 
forcing Asparagus to give cold air, or otherwise greatly to cool 
the grass, eyen to green it, as such treatment has a tendency 
to make eyen very good Asparagus hard and stringy. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

We have done little out of doors except frightening birds 
from the buds of fruit trees, but ia bad weather we proceeded 
with pruning and washing trees and walls in the orchard house, 
haying much of such work still in reserve. We first of all 
syringe the glass, woodwork, and trees with warm water with a 
little soap in it, the water averaging 180° to 200°; then we 
draw the brush or cloth over the glass and woodwork, and 
syringe again, driving the water as well as we can into every 
crevice aud opening. Such washing we resort to asa means of 


prevention, as we in general are put to little expense afterwards” 


in the way of destroying insects. We shall have enough of 
such work and cleaning for many a wet and boisterous day for 
six weeks. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

In moving tender plants we had to use boxes and baskets 
covered to carry them through the open air. We have pre- 
pared some places for propagating, seed-sowing, and potting. 
We are furnishing our fruit houses with strong new wooden 
stages, of which more anon. Houses have been kept low when 
the weather was dull, and all extra moisture avoided. Camellias 
and Azaleas coming on had warm water given to them, and all 
watering was given with water a little warmed. The chief work 
on the 6th and 7th was washing the glass and walls of corridors. 
Beautiful as the snow is in its whiteness, it seems to bring with 
it almost everything that is dirty and smoke-begrimed in the 
atmosphere. 
corridors painted of a light colour, and glass at all exposed 
with flat roofs, all looked as if a sweep’s bag had been pulled 
over them when damp. All were brushed with warmed, weak, 
soap water, then with clean water, and the stones well scrubbed 
with sand, and the effect was most cheering. 

Even on the score of cleanliness and freedom from soot- 
encrustations it is of importance in new places so to arrange 
the houses af once that one chimney at a little distance from 
the houses, and where it can be concealed, should be used 
instead of several or many. In old places, where a glass house 


But frequently we have had | 


Stone pathways in arcades, the exposed walls of | 


has been added here and another there on different levels, and 
on no definite plan, it is difficult and expensive to secure theze 
advantages, and in many cases the disadvantages must be put 
up with. Ina few cases in flat-roofed houses, after the snow 
has left its distilled matter behind it, some of the outside glass, 
quite clean in the autumn, looks as if a soot-brush had passed 
overit. Such matters must wait for the present.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


William Paul, Waltham Cross, London, N.—Select List of Vege- 
table, Flower, and Farm Seeds, Gladioli, &c. 

Dick Radelyffe & Co., 129, High Holborn, London, W.C.—Spring 
Catalogue of Vegetable, Agricultural, and Flower Seeds, &c. 

Arthur Henderson & Co., Pine Apple Place, Maida Vale, London, W. 
— Catalogue of Kitchen Garden, Farm, and Flower Seeds. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

Books (Well-wishev).—You must consult the catalogues of the British 
Museum for “all” the books on Orchids. You can have the “ Orchid 
Manual” free by post from our office if you enclose thirty-two postage 
stamps with your address. Williams’s “‘ Orchid-Grower’s Manual” is is., 
and can be obtained through any bookseller. 

GARDENERS’ Exautnations (G. W.C ).—Write to James Richards, Esa., 
Royal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, W., and he will give you 
the necessary information. Or you may apply to the Secretary of the 
Society of Arts, Adelphi, and he will inform you the nearest place to you 
Where you can go up foran exumination. You can be examined either 
by the Royal Horticultural Society or the Society of Arts. 


Varios (Thos. Wilson).—The King Apple of Lancashire and Yorkshire 
you will find mentioned in Hogs’s * Pomology” and ‘“ Fruit Manual” 
under the name of Warner’s King. The baking Apple is Toker’s In- 
comparable. The defect which you complain of in the Black Alicante Vine 
will be remedied by age. Wecannot suggest anything better for arrest- 
ing the extension of the Birch branches than that which you have 
adopted, except that you might take out some of the longer branches at 
the same time that you curtail the roots. This might be done without 
disfiguring the outline of the tree. 


PRIZE FOR STRAWBERRIES AT THE OXFORD ExHterTion (T. Elcome).— 
Ii the prize was offered by the Royal Horticultural Society, write to Mr. 
Richards, Assistant Secretary, Royal Horticultural Society’s offices, 
South Kensington, London. If it was a local prize, write to the Secre- 
tary of the Oxford Horticultural Society. 


TREE-BORING CATERPILLARS (J. Green).—They are the larve of the 
Goat Moth (Cossus ligniperda). When the existence of one of these 


| creatures is detected in the trunk of a tree by its excrement, relief 


comes too late for the tree, even if we are able to kill the caterpillar, the 
mischief being already done. Notwithstanding this, the caterpillar 
should never be left undisturbed, and an attempt should be made to 
reachit by enlarging the opening with a garden knife, or endeavouring 
to killit by thrusting a piece of pointed wire up the hole. It is called 
the Goat Moth from the peculiar smell both of the insect and its larva. 

PIne APPLE (JV. Watson).—Our correspondent wishes for information 
respecting a variety called Prince Albert, the usual weight, quality, and 
if best in summer or winter. 


ERANIUMS FROSTED (Novice).—At present we would only cut away the 
frosted parts, deferring cutting down until they were beginning to grow; 
or prune them at the beginning of March, and encourage growth with a 
gentle heat. 


WATERING WiTtH Hot Water (D. M.).—It is advisable to water plants 
with water somewhat warmer than the temperature in which they are 
growing in order to prevent checks, which are apt to result from using 
water colder than the konse. Beyond this there is no advantage in 
using water warmer than the atmosphere—it stimulates the roots; but 
watering with warm water may be carried too far, as it is evident that 
though the hot water may for a time excite the roots to growth, it falls to 
the temperature of the house, and though not so immediate in its effects, 
the chill is quite as disastrous as watering with water which is too cold. 
In a house at 55°, we consider 75° too high a temperature for the water > 
55° to 60° would be quite high enough, and in no case would we use water 
higher by 5- than the mean of the house, or that of the bed the pots may 
be grown in or on. We have known Pine-Apple plants in a hotbed of tan 
supplied with water at 65°, whilst the pots were plunged in a hotbed where 
the temperature at 1 foot deep was 90°, in effect like a fall of snow at 
midsummer. 


FITTONIA ARGYRONEURA SHOOTS DriNc (Idem).—We think it is caused 
by the plants being grown in a variable temperature. It may also bea 
result of cold air in combination with an excess of moisture. Apart from 
that we consider it is mainly due to the low temperature. The tempera- 
ture ought to average 60° at this season, and especially as the plant is 
but young. 

TREATMENT OF BEDDING PELARGONIUMS—ForcInG Burs (A Scotch 
Gardener).—We have no doubt your treatment answers your purpose, but 
we do not see any necessity for first placing three or four plants in a pot, 
and this month shaking them ont and potting singly, then encouraging 
growth for a few weeks. We think they would be better potted off singly 
at first, by which means you would save the Jabour of the first potting 
and shaking ont, which latter is attended with the loss of any newly- 
formed fibres. We have known a good display of bloom from autumn- 


| struck bedding Geraniums; but we prefer keeping all the old plants we 


can, as they bloom earlier and more profusely than cuttings of the pre- 
vious autumn. The treatment of the bulbs could not have been better. 
For early flowering they should be potted much earlier than the 26th of 
October; indeed, we would pot in September at the latest for blooming 


| at Christmas and the New Year, and afford them a month, or, better, six 


weeks to form roots before being introduced into heat. Both Hyacinths 
and Tulips may be successfully forced from October, but the bulbs must 


January 12, 1871. ] 


be potted early, so as to afford time for roots to form before the leaves 
start into growth. Cinerarias are much injured in a temperature of from 
60° to 65°. They can be forced; indeed we have now in a pit at 45° to 50° 
upwards of a hundred plants that will flower finely next month. They 
are in 8-inch pots. Of Primulas in a temperature of 40° to 65° we have 
no experience. Ours are now in fine bloom in a greenhouse at a tempe- 
rature of 40° to 45°, the highest temperature they require. We know 
that Geraniums may be packed away in autumn in a cool dry place, but 
safe from frost; and if potted in March and encouraged with heat and 
moisture, they will be in good condition by the end of May—quite as 
good as those winteredin a glass structure. We see nothing in your treat- 
ment but what is sound. 


IncrEASING HEAT FRom Hot WaTeER (H. Foy).—You cannot do better 
tian as you propose—add another pipe all round, connecting the flowand 
return with l-inch piping. Strong pipes may be had with a screw 
formed at each end; or you may have one screw, and the other end to go 
tirmly into a socket pipe. We have found that by connecting with inch 
pipe in the mode proposed, if the inch pipe is inserted in the side, and 
the added pipe is on the same level, the fresh pipe will be scarcely so 
hot as the first are; but if the inch pipe is inserted near the upper sur- 
face, and the fresh pipe is an inch or two higher all round, then the heat 
will be about equal. 


VINEs IN Pots INJURED (G. B. 4.).—Under the circumstances we would 
cut the Vines as low as convenient, and let them start naturally the first 
season, taking one shoot from each. You can give a little extra heat in 
summer and autumn to ripen the wood earlier. 


Gas EXTINGUISHED BY Down-pRAUGHT (S. K.).—Try suspending a 
thin sheet of talc or of iron over the gas lights. 


AiR CIRCULATING IN Ice House (B. H. P.).—The propriety of air 
passing through an ice well, or house, would depend on whether the 
house was empty, and whether the air was warm or frosty. In keen 
frosty weather free air to the ice house would be an advantage. We 
prefer dry straw to cover ice, though we seldom use any. 


Tax oN GARDENERS—HEAT FRoM Dune (7. H. T.).—Every gardener, 
whether he lives onthe premises or not, subjects his employer to a tax 
on his account. 
decision in the Duke of Marlborough’s case, every old labourer who 
e¢arries a broom in a garden or pleasure ground, may render his employer 
liable to a similar tax. This, however, is seldom resorted to in practice, 
and it would be very hard if gentlemen who kindly employ a number of 
extra men on their demesnes, when work is scarce in winter, would also 
be mulcted by atax on their generosity. Fresh dung merely thrown 

- together into a bed will not keep heat long, but will soon heat itself dry, 

and especially in such weather as we have lately had. If you turn it over 
How and add a little more water where dry, it will soon heat itself again. 
Tf you cannot do that, then prepare a little more dung, get it hot, and 
take what you can away from the outside of the old bed, add the 
fresh, and watch the results. We know of nothing better as a weeping 
tree exposed to the sea air than a Weeping Willow, or a Weeping Ash, but 
near Ilfracombe we would try the beautiful Sophora japonica pendula, 
grafted some 12 or 15 feet from the ground. The wood has a beautiful 
tinge even when the leaves have fallen. Cupressus macrocarpa planted 
six years may be transplanted, if care be taken to trace the roots and 
take it up with a ball of roots. We would, however, defer the operation 
until the end of March. 


WaARpDIAN FERN Case (E. S.).—We know of no makers but those who 
advertise in our Journal. Write to Mr. Fox, Arcade, Royal Horticultural 
Society’s Garden, South Kensington. He may give you information. 


Cxueap Hor-waTeR APPARATUS (Lancashire)—Thanks, we will ascer- 
tain if it is suitable. : 


Hovr-WATER-HEATING FammureE (Z. C. S.).—We think that if you will 
read carefully the article of *R. S.,” page 321, October 27th, and the 
questions and the answers respecting it, at pages 8 and 9 of the current 
month, you will most probably find out the cause of your want of success. 
Tf your boiler is sufficient for double the piping, it still must be rather 
small, when, though tubular, it can hold only about half a bushel of coke. 
In such a case we would not use the coke over-large, but break it suffii- 
ciently to be close together, but not to make it too small, vet so that the 
largest pieces should be from the size of eggs to that of walnuts, and the 
smallest from the size of beans. If you could obtain it we would have 
half of the coal used by “R. S.” The great cause, however, of your 
failure from the fuel caking, and the fire going out beneath it, we think 
is owing to the admittance of too much air from the ashpit door. This 
better attended to, with the last feeding of the furnace pressed down 
rather firmly, and the help of a damper, would, we think, do away witn 
your troubles. But this will not be the case unless two things be kept 
in mind and acted on:—First, That every furnace and eyery boiler, 
though apparently scores of them seem exactly alike, will each have 
some little peculiarity, and that peculiarity can only be known by practi- 
cal observation. Secondly, In adding fuel to a furnace for the last time 
at night in severe weather, it is well to bear in mind, that the fuel added 
is less intended to raise the temperature in the house than to keep it 
from falling over-much. It is, therefore, important to have a good heat 
before adding the last fuel. 


Hor-watEer Premnc Necessary (W. G.).—For a span-roofed house 
16 feet by 10 feet, we do not think that one 4-inch pipe as a flow, and a 
similar pipe as a return, would be sufficient to keep up a temperature of 
4°° in such weather as we have had lately. Such pipes all round would 
be safer. Much, however, would depend on how near the glass comes to 
the ground on each side; if within a foot or so of the ground, a third pipe 
at the side and end would, at least, be necessary, not but that the pipes 
alluded to would throw off much heat if the water were near the boiling 
point, but it is always a waste of fuel to make it so hot. Four-inch glazed 
drain-pipes well cemented at the joints, would do for hot water just as 
well as iron pipes. In the first house we saw heated by hot water, such 
pipes were used. Itis well to have an iron pipe for at least a yard from 
the boiler—flow and return. Considering the number of joints, if the 
pipes are of the usual size, and their greater liability to accidents, they 
are, on the whole, not equal to iron pipes. As you have them, you might 


make your two iron pipes, with the exception of that near the bottom of | 


the boiler, flow pipes, let them terminate in an open cistern at the end of 
the house alluded to, and from that take one or two of the glazed pipes on 
a lower level as returns. We regret we cannot say more of Bishop’s 
boiler than is stated in the ‘‘ Heating Manual,” and page 134 of the twenty 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


In fact, more than that, according to the celebrated | 


33 


fifth volume of the old series, but the chief advantage of such a boiler 
consists in its being made by a clever handy man. When thai cannot be 
done, it will generally be better to use a common saddle-back or conical 
boiler. Boilers may be extremely simple and effective, as Mr. Bishop’s, 
but then such boilers can only be made so as to be marketable where 
| there is a good supply for them. Perhaps Mr. Bishop or Mr. Allen may 
see this, and then give a more definite reply to our correspondent. For 
houses of all such sizes we consider that hot water is the most expensive 
mode of heating. Supposing that in this 10-feet span house the pathway 
is in the middle, then a 6-inch-wide flow and return flue under the path- 
way, with the furnace at ons end outside, would be by far the cheapest 
and most comfortable mode of heating it. A small iron stove inside, 
with a flat top for an evaporating-basin, would cost much less than 
either, but the firing would be more troublesome. However, let every- 
| body have hot water ifitso please them. The heat is genial, and there 
is less likelihood of accidents. 


HEATING A PoRTABLE HovsE (New Subscriber).—It is very dificult to 
secure all that you want, simply-and economically, because the place is 
so small, and all must be portable. The house is 12 feet by 8 feet, the 
height at back 9 feet, in front 54 feet, all of 1-inch deal, except the roof 
and front of glass. A hotbed is wanted for raising seeds, and we are 
asked our opinion as to a flue, hot-water pipes, and tanks, but all these or 
any one of them must be portable, and require little attention in stoking, 
&c. Wecan hardly see how you could have a portable flue, unless it 
were an iron one, and the furnace could not well be portable. We do not 
know how you are situated, but if you could obtain gas easily, a gas-stove 
and small boiler would be the very thing for you, with a very small pips 
leading from the furnace to the open air. (See No. 341, on gas stoves.) 
With such a stove in the centre of the house in front you could take 
2-inch hot-water pipes each way, and the whole of that space you could 
enclose in a chamber from 18 to 24 inches wide with sheet iron, and set 
glazed cases over it for propagating, or you could do this, covering in 
half of the length, leaying the other exposed for heating the house. We 
haye seen plans of gas stoves and boilers by a Mesers. Wright & Co., 
where the stove is fitted with three lengths of small piping for a space of 
| nearly 5 feet. Now the furnace boiler left exposed, and all the pipe part shut 
in, would form your bed for seed-raising, &c. There is no pian so simple 
| as gas, where youcan have it handy. Another simple plan and portable, 
would be to have a low, square, flat-headed, iron stove to be fed from 
either the inside or outside of the house, a space shut in to form a cham- 
ber, the top of the chamber to be 2 or 3 inches higher than the top of the 
stove. The whole space in front may be enclosed for 18 or 20 inches in 
| width; but the greatest heat will be next the stove. We would use stout 
sheet iron for the top of the chamber, which would thus be the bottom of 
the hotbed. A few sliding openings in the side of the chamber next the 
pathway would enable you to regulate the heat of the houso as desirable. 
Once more, suppose you had a small iron stove to heat the bouse so as to - 
keep your plants safe, and if you do not wish a large propagating-box, and 
if you are at all near a kitchen boiler, what would you say to this ?—viz., 
a stout wooden box, say from 3 to 4} feet long, 20 inches wide, and 
83 inches deep, set on any suitable height, made waterproof inside, 
covered on the top securely with plate iron, and furnished with small 
wooden boxes, say two or three, or all in one piece according to the size 
of the shallow box, and glazed with a moveable sash, if that should be a 
single square or frame. There might be a tap at bottom to take out 
water, and one pipe at the top to be closed with a cork when not wanted, 
and to admit a funnel when necessary; and by means of a potful of 
warm water you could regulate the heat in your little propagating-bed to 
a nicety, by simply drawing off cold water and adding hot water. Twice 
in the ew eaty fon hours would generally suffice, so far as heat was 
concerned. 


MuvsHRooM-HOUSE SHELVES (N. M.).—We think you must haye missed 
what has been said as to the material of Mushroom shelves. The rusting 
of iron was referred to, and ignorance confessed as-to how long galvanis- 
ing would save iron from rusting. Your practice may warrant your pre- 
ferring wood to slate for shelves, but we must own we never could 
see much difference as respects the produce, when both have been 
managed with equal care. Slate gives no harbour to some enemies, as 
wood does, especially when it begins to decay. The mere extra coldness 
in a house is of little moment. We use wood ourselves, but we by no 
means disparage slate. 


VINES IN Pots (W. B.).—We have no doubt that Vines in pots will 
succeed very well on the top of the back fluein the vinery as you propose ; 
and if the pot stands on a large flat, and the flat on the top of the fiue, it 
would be well to have three pieces of something inside the flat or saucer, 
for an inch in depth, for the pot to stand upon, and the water in the 
saucer should never be higher than the bottom ofthe pot. All watering 
should be given at the surface, but if more comes into the saucer it should 
be removed. Such Vines, according to their strength, may be left from 
3i£ to 5feetin length. Unless you make an unusually good bargain we 
have little faith in your doing much with Vines sold at 5s.each. Good 
fruiting Vines in pots require so much care, labour, and room to well 
ripen the wood, that we think good fruiting plants cannot be had for that 
money, unless the holder is very anxious to sell. The mode referred to 
—placing the pots in pans, is not so good as haying a box separated from 
the flue by a brick laid flat, and the box large enough to permit of the pot 
being plunged in tan or leaves. The giving enough of heat in the flue at 
the back of the house, to st2rt these Vines now will undoubtedly influence 
the other Vines in the house and cause them to break sooner in conse- 
quence, though not so soon as the Vines in pots. If you wish to keep the 
house Vines back and get the pot Vines forward, you would require to 
shut in with glass the pot Vines, and give more than the usual quantity 
of air to the front of the house. By such means the Vines in pots may 
bo strong before those Vines planted in the house begin to swell. With 
the house all open you may get the pot Vines to ripen their crops a month 
earlier than the Vines in the house; but where anything like two crops in 
one house is desirable it is essential that one part should be shut in, or that 
the late Vines should be taken out untilitis deemed necessary to intro- 
duce them. 

LaBretiinc WRourr TrREES.—‘ W. R. J.” prefers numbering the trees, 
and having a plan and numbers on it in his pocket, and his gardener 
havinganother. This does not facilitate the acquirement of the names 
by visitors or other members of the family. 
| Avricuna SHows.— 5. R.” wishes to know when an Auricula Show is 
| to be held in London or elsewhere. 


a4 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 12, 1871. 


Fucusta Faraer Ienativs (A Lady in Cheshire).—It is named as you 
conjecture. Corolla cup-shaped, indigo, sometimes striped with rose; 
tube and sepals scarlet. The plant is of compact free-blooming habit. 

Hor Water CrrcoLatinc Downwarps.—‘ Poor GARDENER’ asks me 
to explain how hot water will descend 22 feet in 100 feet, and then return 
to the same point on a level. When I wrote before in reply to ‘ Poor 
GARDENER’S’ lamentations I ought to have mentioned that the flow-pipe 
first rises from the boiler to heat a propagating pit which is much higher 
than our greenhouse; the same pipe branches off to heat this pit, and 
continues its downward course to beat the greenhouse. The return-pipe 
in this greenhouse goes back to the boiler after passing through the 
bottom of the bed in the propagating pit mentioned above, being quite 
on 2 level, but not below the level of the boiler. I may mention that the 
air-pipe at the elbow of the hot-water pipes at the fartbest end from the 
fall-pipe in the greenhouse has been some time broken off, nnd I have it 
plugged up. so that only the air-pipe at the top of the fall-pipe is of any 
service to the piping; still the water circulates freely without the other 
ajr-pipe.—R. GIDDINGS, Gardener to W. H. Michael, Esq., Cholmeley Park, 
Highgate.” 

CUCUMBER RAISING IN A GREENHOUSE (M. P.),—Unless you haye means 
of covering the bed in front of your greenhouse with lights, or keep the 
temperature higher than is required for any greenhouse plant, you can- 
not raise or grow Cucumbers there. We would cover the space with 
lights, having a box made about 15 inches high at back, and 9 inches in 
front or next the walk, and, to cover it, lights hinged at back. It would 
in that case be a sort of propagating-box, than which nothing is more 
useful. There should be one in every house. The space for fermenting 
materials over the flue we would fill with well-sweetened horse dung, as 
free of straw as possible, but spent hops are good and more lasting than 
dung. Surely those you used last year were old. Fill quite fall of the 
fermenting material in the first instance, all but space for 6inches ot 
plunging material, as cinders, cocoa fibre, or sawdust, and in three or 
four days the bed will be warm. It will be a good place for cuttings and 
raising from seed plants which need such forwarding. 


OLD CaMELLiIas Sickty (Camellia).—We had a lot of similar plants. 
They had been cut hard and been potted along time. Early last April 
we turned them out of the pots, picked away all the old soil we could 
from amongst the roots, and potted most of the plants afresh in the 
same size of pot, but some we transferred to larger pots. We used thetop 
inch-layer of pasture where the soil was light, and midway between loam 
and peat, such as is to be had on many commons. It is a soil in which 
Gorse is plentiful, also Brake and Foxglove where there is shade. 
This compost was chopped small, and the pots being well cleaned and 
drained, we put in the plants so that the setting-on of the roots was 
about half an inch below the rim of the pots. Then we potted, taking 
care to work the soil well in, and leave no cavities, and the compost was 
put in rather firmly. The soil was neither wet nor dry. After potting the 
plants were placed in a vinery, and were syringed twice a-day, and they 
started into growth very weakly or tardily, but recovered very quickly, 
and have exceeded our expectations, Though the plants may not have 
such foliage as we could wish, the leaves of the past year are excellent, 
both in colour and size, and they are now in splendid bloom. We advise 
this plan to all who have sickly Camellias. The plan was first broached 
in this Journal by our esteemed correspondent Mr. Pearson, of Chilwell. 


RE-TRANSPLANTING Roses (R. S. D.).—The Roses planted last Novem- 
ber may safely be taken up and planted where you require them, either 
this month or in February, before they begin forming fresh roots. The 
earlier this work is done the better, the weather being mild and the 
ground not very wet. 


GREENHOUSE PLANTs BLIGHTED (H. L. B.).—One of the leaves sent us 
is covered with black fungus, caused by the secretion of some Coccus or 
scale insect. The remedy is to dip the plants overhead for about a 
miutte in a solution of 3 ozs. of soft soap to the gallon of water, with 
about twelve drops of spirits of turpentine. Use it at a temperature of 
140° for plants that have the wood well ripened, but to those which are 
partially growing at 125°. The other leaf, which appears to be that of a 
Myrtle, syringe with the same solution, laying the plant on its side and 
turning it round, so as to thoroughly wet every part. Keep the solution 
in all cases from the soil. It is infested with red spider, and we think 
thrips. To free the leaves of the black fungus, wash them with a sponge 
and the solution above named. There is no preventive of insects; they 


come in the best of structures under the care of the most skilful hands. ° 


GLADIOLUS TREATMENT (Idem).—Except in very sheltered positions, or 
warm and dry soils, and those inclined to a sandy peat in character, the 
bulbs should be taken up in autumn as soon as the leaves begin to turn 
yellow, be dried in a cool airy place, and kept in a cool plaee, yet safe 
from frost. Plant them about the middle of March in ground tbat has 
been well and deeply dug, exposed to the weather during the winter, and 
liberally manured. Water freely in dry weather, both overhead and at 
the roots. We do not take up our bulbs, for our soil just suits them, and 
they spread and growin open places in the shrubberies as if they wero 
indigenous. They are, indeed, very hardy, but do not like wet soils. 
Under this treatment they flower in July and later. 


CAMELLIA Bups Fanuine (A Young Beginner).—We think the cause of 
the buds falling is the roots not supplying sap for the proper expansion 
of the flowers. In fact, the roots are probably unhealthy, though the 
evil may be a result of too moist and coldan atmosphere. We advise you 
to follow the instructions given above. 


PrLum-TREE Roots DisEasep (Celt)—The roots sent are destroyed by 
the mycelium of some fungus, the odour of which is very powerful and 
offensive. We haye no doubt it has found its way into the border 
through using manure, leaf soil, or other material containing the twigs 
or branches of trees; orit may be that the border was previously occu- 
pied with fruit trees, the old roots of which have been left in the ground, 
and from one or other of those causes the mycelium has found its way to 
the roots of the young Plum trees. It is doubtful if anything can be 
done to save the trees from further decay, but we would advise giving 
the ground a soaking with salt water, 4 ozs. of salt to the gallon of 
water, making holes s0 as to admit it more freely to the border. We 
think your only effectual remedy will be to clear out the trees, remove 
all the soil that exhibits the “mouldy” appearance, and replace with 
fresh compost and trees; but we would try the sult solution and free 
waterings next season. Apply the salt solution between now and March. 


Names or Fruits (J, Bryan).—Your Apple is Coe’s Golden Drop. 


Names oF Puants (£. LZ. J.).—Zygopetalum Mackayi. 
Lelia anceps. (Rawlings).—1, Adiantum formosum; 2, Asplenium Adi- 
antum-nigrum; 3, Asplenium marinum; 4, Platyloma rotundifolia. 
(J. R. P.).—Pittosporum crassifolium, a New Zealand plant, and quite 
espable of enduring greenhouse treatment. By no means should it be 
classed as a stove plant. (4 Lady Subscriber).—Acacia lophantha. 


(G. H. W.).— 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


CUP FOR LIGHT BRAHMAS. 


Hayrve undertaken to get up a subscription cup for the best 
pen of Light Brahmas at the forthcoming Portsmouth Show, 
will you permit me, through your columns, to thank those 
Light Brahma-breeders who have already subscribed, and to 
make an appeal to other friends of our beautiful and popular 
breed to lend a helping hand? The sum already promised or 
paid amounts to £4 7s. Two or three additional such subscrip- 
tions will complete the requisite amount, and I dare say there 
are some of your readers who, seeing these lines, will be willing 
to contribute. 

The Portsmouth Show, though of recent origin, promises to 
be a success, and will combine with her elder sisters, the 
neighbouring exhibitions, to take away the reproach from the 
south of England of being bebind the northern and midland 
counties in the number and excellence of poultry shows.— 
Joun Panss, Postford, Guildford. 


COLCHESTER POULTRY SHOW. 


Your readers will see in an advertisement that there is to be 
another poultry show in addition to those that have been an- 
nounced for the last six months—viz., an exhibition of Poultry, 
Pigeons, and Rabbits, at Colchester. It would be difficult to 
arrange a more comprehensive schedule than is issued by the 
Committee. There are forty-eight classes, comprising twenty- 
six for fowls (including three for Ducke), with the first prize, 
£2; the second, £1. Pigeons secure seventeen classes, includ- 
ing a class for the best four pairs of working Antwerps. The 
war excitement and contingencies have caused us to go back 
some centuries by using the Carrier Pigeon for the swift dis- 
patch of important messages. It will be well to increase this 
breed in the same manner as they are increasing our weapons 
of defence, for both would be found of great service in the 
event of a war with this country. Whoever has a stocked loft 
of good Autwerps at such a crisis will realise something hand- 
some. The first prize for Pigeons is £1, the second 10s. The 
great success of the Rabbit Show at York, with 123 entries, 
and undoubtedly the best collection of Rabbits ever brought 
together, have induced the Committee to offer £12 in four classes 
—viz., first prize £2, second £1. There is one class each for 
Lop-ears, Angoras, Himalayan, and ‘‘ Any other variety ;” a 
pen to consist of a single Rabbit, either buck or doe. There is a 
class for dead poultry. In a railway point of view, Colchester 
is in a good position, being only forty miles from London, and 
in direct communication, via Cambridge, with the Great 
Northern, Midland, and London and North-Western Railways. 
With these advantages it is to be hoped that aggrayating non- 
arrivals of stock will be avoided. 

Another poultry show is tslked of in connection with a fat 
cattle show to be held in Colohester during December. Years 
ago Colchester had poultry shows with seven hundred entries, 
when but few towns had any, and there was scarcely any know- 
ledge of the instruction and amusement to be derived from 
them ; it now seems as if it intended to begin again, and to 
hold its position as one of the originators of this national 
pastime.—Davip P. Goopine, Colchester. 


BRISTOL AND CLIFTON POULTRY SHOW. 


Tus now celebrated Show, cn the whole, more than answered our 
expectations last week; and if the selling classes, which were wanting 
here, are deducted from the Crystal Palace, it has again maintained its 
position as having the next largest number of entries of poultry to 
Birmingham, whilst in point of quality several of the classes were by 
far the best we have seen during the season. In spite of the late 
severe weather the birds were mostly iu fine order, and the number of 
empty pens not so great as might have been expected. Of the ar- 
rangements wo can only say they were as good as usual, this Show 
being always enviably distinguished for absence of complaints and 
mischances, while the plan adopted of printing the awards in the 
margin of the catalogue adds greatly to the convenience of visitors. 

DORKINGS. 


1. At this Show chickens always come first. Mrs. Wheatley came 


January 12, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


35 


to the front with a grand cockerel, again bearing out our remarks on 
this class at Birmingham. The second and third-prize birds were 
little behind, and all the prize birds were remarkable for the sound 
state of the feet. This remark applies to all the Dorking classes, and 
is the more singular when compared with the tender feet seen at all 
previous shows. Mr. Martin’s bird was not sent. 

2. The cup pen contained the very best pullet we think we ever 
saw, her companion not so good, but would have looked grand any- 
where else, and Mr. Patton amused himself and the public by putting 
£1000 upon this pen. Well, he had a right to be proud of them, 
though a ‘cool hundred” used to be thought sufficient to deter pur- 
chasers. The second-prize pen was also very good, and Grey, like the 
first ; third, a fair pen, very dark in colour, soon claimed ut £10. 
Both these classes were equal to anything seen this year. 

3,4. Old birds, hardly so good. The first-prize cock was a good 
bird, a little defective in one foot, but beating easily Mr. Martin’s 
Rose-combed bird, which had evidently had more work than was good 
for him, though still good enough for the second prize; third fair. 
The first-prize hens we thought a mistake; they were very dark birds, 
but not so fine as the Grey second-prize pen. ‘Third again a dark but 
small pair, and there seems to us to be an evident tendency in the 
Judges this year to make Dorkings birds of colour. The highly com- 
mended pens, 60 and 63, were grand birds, and the hens on the whole 
were better than the cocks. Lxcept this last class, we thought the 
Coloured Dorkings remarkably well judged. 

5,6. Silver-Grey cocks were far from equal to those shown at Bir- 
mingham, or perhaps London, but the prize birds were fair and well 
placed. In the hens the prize birds were equal to any yet shown, but 
the rest only moderate. 

7,8. In White cocks we thought an unnoticed pen, 93, as good as 
any. First prize very good; second very small; third a large bird, 
but coarse in comb. ‘The first-prize hens very imperfect in the Dorking 
toes; second very fair in quality; bat the third hardly equal to the 
highly commended pen 99. Both White classes were very moderate 
in quality. 

COCHINS. ; 

9. Buff cockerels a fair class, but behind Birmingham. The cup 
pen was a very fine bird, in spite of decided faults, and honestly 
shown; a little hocked, comb badly serrated, and a little heavy 
in carriage, but a fine, even, deep gold colour, and shown with all his 
tail in. Second came a rather clumsy and rather hocked bird, but 
equal to the average this season ; third also hocked, and with a slipped 
pane, but fine in colour, also too much tail, but shown with it ‘ all 

ere.” 

10. The pullets, on the other hand, were by far the best class of 
the season. First-prize rather wanting in shape, and decidedly not 
equal to the second, which was Lady Gwydyr’s old grand pen, and, 
in spite of a bad match, the best this year. Third pen fine shape, 
but bad combs, and one a very bad colour on the cushion. The 
highly commended, 134, was a really good pen, but the high com- 
mendation of 138 must have been meant for 139, the colour being very 
bad, while 139 was fair in every way. Another good pair was dis- 
qualified by plucked hocks. 

11. First-prize old cock beautiful colour, large and massive ; 
second very good, but a trifle clumsy ; third good in colour, but nar- 
row in the saddle, and wretchedly feathered. A middling class. 

12. Hens, on the contrary, were a small but very good collection. 

First a grand pair of light Buffs; second a medium colour, and only 
inferior in leg-feathering ; third well feathered, rather darker ; the 
two highly commended pens also good, and the three prize pens 
decidedly the best three pens seen together this season. 
_ 13. Partridge cockerels a fair class. First a good colour, but bad 
in every other point, and very small; the third-prize bird worth a 
dozen of him; but had Mr. Tudman’s highly commended pen 170 
more leg feather, he would have been better than either. Pem 179 
(annoticed) also a good bird. Second-prize a moderate bird, but in 
first-rate order. Pen 173 appeared to us to be the same as the first at 
London, and was probably passed for his hocks. 

14. First-prize pullets a grand pair in every way ; second bad and 
streaky, and far worse than Mr. Crossley’s, the hocks of which, how- 
ever, appeared doubtful. ‘Chird-prize moderately good in marking, 
but beautiful in shape, and deserving their place. 

15, 16. The first-prize Partridge cock was of very bad carriage, 
actually drooping to the tail; second-prize far better, but on the whole 
we preferred the third-prize bird, though coarse in the head. Pen 201 
a fine bird, but sadly knocked up, and not fit to show. Of hens there 
were only four entries. The first took the cup, and was a truly grand 
pen; second not far off in quality; third middling, one bird having 
a very coarse head; the fourth pen had one very good bird, but the 
other spoilt the pen. 

17, 18. First and second White cockerels very good; third and the 
rest not up to the mark, and we thought it a poor class, the Judges 
thinking the same, only one other pen being noticed. Pullets much 
better, and the prizes well placed. 

_19. The first-prize old White bird was very fine in every way, but a 
little scaly on the feet ; second-pyize very large, but we liked the third 
better, in spite of a little yellow. 

20. The White hens were the best class of all the Cochins, or of 
all the year; we were truly glad to see the true old shape, the true old 
colour, and the true old feather back again. Hyery pen but one was 


mentioned, and the prize pens were simply magnificent. It really sur- 
prised us to see such a class after what we had seen at the previous 


shows. Wherever have the birds been to in the meantime ? 
BRAHMAS. 
21. The Dark cockerels were a remarkable collection of forty-five 
entries. Mr. Moor repeated his Palace success with a bird rather 


small and low in saddle, but of excellent colour and general shape ; 
second-prize a bird never before exhibited, quite different from the 
ordinary type of Brahma, standing very tall, and with hardly the 
accepted tail, but of extraordinary symmetry and grace for so large 
a bird; the second-prize Birmingham bird came third, the Birming- 
ham cup and many other well-known winners being only highly com- 
mended. Altogether the quality of this class was beyond anything we 
have ever seen. 

22. Pullets not so good, but better than at any previous show this 
season. Jirst-prize, large bird, of fine dark colour, and in good con- 
dition, but bad shape, coarse in the head, and mossy in pencilling ; 
second a good pair, one very heavily hocked, but not plucked; third 
yery poor, both in shape and marking, and much worse than several 


other pens. Pen 322 we thought the best in the class, though only 
highly commended. Besides the prizes, thirteen pens were noticed by 
the Judges. 


23. The cup was taken by Mrs. Hart's first-prize cock claimed at 
Birmingham, which won also at London and Manchester, and in spite 
of his white tail we thought him well placed; the second was in 
wretchedly bad condition; third very fine, being the same as took second 
at Birmingham. 

24. The cup was taken by the first-prizo Birmingham pen, though 
only highly commended at Manchester the week before; such is the 
uncertainty of judging. We liked the second best of all, being grand 
in shape, but «ns bird had a tumour on the breast; third a fair pen- 
This class was very middling. 

25, 26, 27,28. Lhe Light Brahmas were at this Show far behind 
the Dark in quality. The first and second cockerels were first and 
second at Birmingham, both small, but of beautiful shape. The 
first-prize pullets were Mr. Crook’s well-known pen; second dirty, but 
very good; the third contained one very good bird, but the other poor. 
The cocks looked mostly out of condition. First a fine massive bird 
of beautiful colour, but very coarse in the head; second very good - 
indeed ; third wanting in colour, and very yellow. First-prize hens 
hardly equal to second, though more showy. 

SPANISH. 

29. The cockerels were a grand class, and far surpassed all pre- 
vious collections, though not equal to what we expected owing to the 
weather. The cup and second were correctly judged, though the cup_ 
bird went ‘‘all to pieces” next day, which occasioned many remarks 
on the judging by those who had not seen the cup bird as he was; the 
third-prize was wry-tailed, which should have disqualified him. The 
cup Palace pen arrived in bad condition, and was passed over, but 
picked up wonderfully during the Show. Many other birds were very 

ood. 

q 30. Spanish pullets were a very hard class to judge. On the whole, 
in spite of much discussion, we thought the awards well placed, but 
the six highly-commendeds by no means represented the full ment of 
the class, which was really wonderful. This was partly owing to the 
ungalvanised wire fronts of the pens being rather injudiciously oiled, 
and several of the birds poking their fair heads between the bars paid 
the penalty of feminine curiosity by showing stains which did not 
really belong to them. 

31, 32. Old cocks were not up to the Bristol standard, owing to the 
severe weather, only one pen besides the prize hens being commended 
in a class of eleven. Hens were a small class of six. The first-prize 
took the cup and were magnificent, the second being not a long way 
behind ; the third only of fair average quality. 

5 FRENCH FOWLS. 

83, 34. There was not a single La Fléche cock in the French class, 
and only one pair of hens, which took the third prize and deserved it. 
The first and third-prize cocks were Créve-Ceurs, and we thought tho 
third best. The second was a Houdan, and in his right place. The 
first-prize hens were also Créye-Ccurs, and the second Hondans. 
These classes were not of remarkable merit, and, with perhaps the 
exception named, were certainly well judged. 


HAMBURGHS. 

35, 36. Nearly all the Hamburgh classes were a treat to inspect. 
Gold-spangled were very thickly commended, and deservedly so. The 
cocks were well placed. We remarked with regret in this class several 
combs which had evidently had the razor across them. In hens, the 
first were very neat and almost too dark on the breast, but it must be 
considered they were shown genuine. Second beautifully marked, but 
not a perfect match. Third middling in quality, but shown in splendid 
condition. 

37, 38. Asa class, the Silver-spangled were not equal to the Gold, 
though in both classes the cups went to this breed. Cup cock a beauti- 
ful tail and breast, but not perfect in bars. Second a little clouded in 
tail, but a good bird; still, in every point, we thought him inferior to 
the third. ‘The one highly-commended bird was also very good. The 
prize hens were all good, and Mr. Howe’s highly-commended pen, 
616, was well worthy an extra prize. 

39, 40. The cup Gold-pencilled cock was a beautiful bird, with the 


36 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ January 12, 1871. 


defined dark tail so needful for pullet-breeding. Second almost if not 
quite as good. Third much more bronzed, but with nice carriage. 
We remarked many other bronze tails, to which the pullets owe their 
failing colour. Pen 640 was a beautiful bird, and ought to have been 
highly commended instead of simply commended. The caps hens 
were dense black in the marking, and the second little worse. Third 
a middling pen, but in fine order. Pen 649 better in colour than 
either, but small and out of condition. Pen 652 one exquisite bird, 
but the other poor. Pen 661 one of the best marked in the class, but 
one hen had an immense overgrown comb, which spoilt the pair. 

41, 42. In Silver-pencilled the first-prize cock was a small bird, 
but good in comb and tail; the third better than the second in every 
point except tail, which was mossy. Hens were better than usual of 
date, and the prize pens well placed. 

43, 44. Black cocks as good as ever, and the winners rightly 
selected, several competitors at recent shows losing through want of 
condition. Black hens won the cup, and were a perfect pair in 
splendid order. Second and third also good, and not a bad pen in 
the class; but we never remember seeing a pair quite equal to the 


winners. 
GAME. 

44,46. Cup Black Red cock a fine bird, perhaps a trifle heavy. 
Second rather dark in colour, but we almost liked him the better. 
Another unnoticed pen of the same exhibitor ought to have been at least 
highly commended. Third rather small, but a model in shape. A 
highly-commended pen, 715, was a beautiful bird in all but his sharp 
Malay shoulders, which also disfigured many other birds in this class. 
‘The hen awards were much discussed, bat we thought them pretty fair, 
hanging our own opinion after handling one of the birds, which looked 
rather soft, but was just the contrary. Mr. Matthews’s unnoticed pen, 
751, was, however, one that ought to have been highly commended. 

47, 48. The cup Brown Red cock was a “ clear case ”’ as to his merit, 
but very short of hackle. Second a very large bird—too large, but 
good figure nevertheless. Third middling; and the highly commended 
pen, 763, must have taken his place, but the comb was badly dubbed 
and had grown again. Hens were barely an average, except the prize 
birds, which well kept up the old standard. We noticed, however, 
that most of the birds are getting too red in the face, which is a pity. 

49,50. Duckwing cocks a small but unusually good class, several 
very good birds being passed over, probably for severe trimming. The 
third-prize bird was in the best condition decidedly, and many thought 
should haye stood first, but all three were so good there was little to 
complain of. Hens not so good in our opinion, and we did not 
thoroughly like any but the prize and the commended pen, 810. 

51, 52. In the ‘ Any variety,” all the prize-winners were Piles. 

_First-prize cock a beautiful bird. Second not a good colour; and 
third decidedly too big. Hens were also on the large scale, all but the 
third prize, which we liked best, being a hard bird of beautiful pro- 
portions, and with a true Game head and carriage. Both these classes 
syere decidedly poor. 

POLISH. 

58,54. The cug and second-prize Polish cocks were good Silvers ; 
the third a Black. The highly commended pen 542 wasa fine Gold 
bird; we regretted not to see it in the list. The cup hens were also 
Silver; second an unusually good pair of Golds; and third again a 
neat pair of Blacks. The hens were a really beautiful class; the cocks 
hardly so good. 

ANY VARIETY. 

55,56. In the Any variety class for cocks Mr. Hinton topped the 
list with a fine Malay; second was a handsome Sultan, and third 
Malay again. A Scotch Dumpy only was highly commended, and a 
Black Cochin commended ; all the rest—Andalusians (good), Cuckoo 
Dorkings, and a Dominique being passed over. In hens Minorcas were 
first, Dominiques second (a very good award, as being a new breed in 
England), and a nice little pair of Pekin Bantams third. We think 
the last is the first pair of Pekin hens ever shown together. 


DUCKS. 

57—60. Aylesbury Ducks were fair and no more; Rouens a fine 
¢lass, and several pens changed hands. Blacks mustered eleven pens, 
and on the whole seem getting a little smaller, which is well; the first- 
prize pen was exquisite both in shape and plumage. The Any variety 
class, as usual now, consisted mainly of Mandarins and Carolinas, 
and the whole class was specially highly commended by the Judges. 
The third prize, however, went to a nicely marked pair of Sheldrakes. 


GEESE AND TUREBEYS. 

61, 62. Geese were up to the Birmingham standard, and the best 
collection ever sent to Bristol. The first and second were white, the 
third Grey. Between the cup and second-prize Turkeys was a very close 
shave, and the Judges finally changed their first opinion, and gave the 
eup to the celebrated American bird sent to Birmingham by Mr. 
Simpson. He has certainly gone very shaky in his legs and feet, but 
we still think the cup rightly given. 


BANTAMS. 

63, 64, 65. The first-prize pen had a beautiful cock but only fair 
hens; second, exquisite hens but an inferior cock: ; third, not so good 
as several others; and pen 1014 ought to be at least highly com- 
mended. Brown Reds were poor in numbers and quality as a whole, 
but the cup pen was really exquisite as to colour, carriage, and con- 
dition. In the class for Any other variety of Game first and second 


came Duckwings, and third a beautifully shaped, but, as regards the 
hens, not over-well-matched pen of Piles. 

66, 67, 68. Sebrights, a small but beautiful class, every pen but 
one being mentioned. The first and second were, however, a long 
way ahead. Blacks were the best of all the Bantam classes, so much 
so that one of the Judges promised a cup for them next year. All 
the prizes were in their place, the first being very good, second rather 
a large cock, but good in head and carriage. Mr. Cambridge’s best 
pen, containing the best cock we ever saw, has never recovered his 
visit to the Palace, and before Saturday had to be removed to save his 
life. Third also a nice pen. Whites a middling class, all but the 
winners, which were good. 

69. In Game Bantam single cocks, the first prize left nothing to 
complain of ; but certainly the next best, if not the very best, in the 
class, was passed by altogether, being the winner at both Birmingham 
and London. It may haye been on account of the sickle which was 
so disgracefully abstracted at Birmingham; if so, we can only say 
that disqualification for such a cause is the way to drive exhibitors 
into inserting new tails. Second and third both rather poor, and up 
to the last day of the Show the latter had not been claimed at two 
guineas. 


The total number of entries was 1308, or just one more than at 
Manchester. The average quality may be partly gathered from the 
unusual amount of sales, which exceeded £300 in actual cash paid 
over, and included Mrs. Arkwright’s third-prize Dorking pullets at 
£10; third-prize Dorking cock, £5; Mr. Heath’s first-prize Buff 
pullets, £10 10s.; Mr. Ensor’s first-prize Dark Brahma puillets at £20 ; 
Mr. L. Wright's commended pair ditto at £10; Mr. Curzon’s Dark 
cock at £15 15s.; Mr. Morrell’s second-prize Dark hens, £10; Mr. 
Beldon’s cup Gold-pencilled cock at £6 6s., and his first-prize hens at 
the same price; Mrs. Seamons’s Aylesbury Ducks at £5 ds.; and the 
cup Black Red Bantams at £10 10s. 

Mr. Hewitt was to have been one of the Judges, but his sudden 
illness necessitated some revision of the intended arrangements, and 
gave the remaining three Judges rather hard work. Mr. Teebay 
judged the Brahmas, Spanish, Game, and Game Bantams ; Mr. Teebay 
and Mr. Dixon the Hamburghs; and the Rey. G. Hodgson and Mr. 
Dixon the remaining classes, while the Pigeons were judged by Mr. 
T. J. Cottle, of Cheltenham. 

The weather throughout was very bad, but we trust the heavy sales 
will to some extent make up for this drawback to the attendance. 


DorxtnGs (Coloured).—Cockerel.—l, 3, and Cup, Mrs. E. Wheatley, Ingate~ 
stone. 2, L. Patton, Hillmore, Taunton. kc, Mrs. Arkwright, Sutton Scars- 
dale, Chesterficld; R. W.Beachey, Kingskerswell (2); L. Patton; R. C. Forster, 
Bath; W. W. Ruttlidge, Kendal. c, Mrs. Hind, Kendal. 

Dorxgincs (Coloured).—Pullets.—1 and Cup, L. Patton. 2, Mrs. E. Wheatley. 
8, Mrs. Arkwright. he, G. J. Mitchell, Burton-on-Trent (2); L. Patton; R. 
Smalley, Lancaster. ‘ 

Dorxres (Coloured).—Cock.—1, L. Patton. 2, J. Martin, Worcester. 3, Rev. 
J.D. Hoysted, Bradenstoke, Chippenham. ic, Mrs. M.D. Dunn, Hungerford. 
ce, S. H. Stott, Rochdale. 

DorermnGs (Coloured).—Hens.—l, R. W. Beachey. 2, L. Patton. 8, Mrs. Ark- 
wright. he, Henry Lingwood, Barking, Needham Market; L. Patton (2); J. 
White, Warlaby, Northallerton. c, Rev. J. D. Hoysted. 

Dorgrnes (Silver-Grey).—Cockerel or Cock—1, O. E: Cresswell, Hanworth 
Rectory. 2, Hon. J. Massey, Limerick. 8. W.E. George, Stoke Bishop, Bristol. 
he, Hon. H. Fitzwilliam, Wentworth Woodhouse; J. Longland, Grendon, North- 
ampton. 

DORE (Silver-Grey)—Pullets or Hens.—1, O. E. Cresswell. 2, W. W. 
Ruttlidge. 8, W.H. Denison. hc, W. E. George (2). ¢, J. Longland. 

Doremes (White).—Cockerel or Cock.—l, Miss Fairhurst, Ormskirk. 2, E. 
Williams, Henllys, Berriew. 8, J. Choyce, Atherstone. 7 

Dorrmwes (White).—Pullets or Hens.—l, Mrs. M. A. Hayne, Fordington, Dor- 
chester. 2and hc, J. Choyce. 3, Mrs. Hartnell, Bridgewater. 

Cocurxs (Cinnamon and Buff)—Cockerel.—l and Cup, Lady Gwydyr, Stoke 
Park, Ipswich. 2, Mrs. Wilkin, Bootle. 3, H. Lloyd, jun. hc, W. A. Taylor, 
Manchester: Mrs. Wilkin; J. Watts, King’s Heath; D. Young, Leamington; 
Mrs. P. V. M. ee Nesionssubes Tiare: c, Mrs. Allsopp, Hindlip, Wor- 
cester; J. Dawes, Birmingham. 

CocHixs (Cinnamon and Bnff).—Pullets.—l, G. Heath. 2, Lady Gwydyr. 
8,L. Patton. he, W. A. Taylor; Miss J. Milward, Newton St. Loe, Bristol; C. 
Bloodworth, Cheltenham. c, Henry Lingwood; A. Darby, Bridgnorth. : 

Cocuixs (Cinnamon and Buff)—Cock.—l, W. A. Taylor. 2, C. Felton, Bir- 
mingham. 3, R. Dawson, Beverley. hc, W. A. Burnell, Southwell (2); Mrs. 
Wilkin; J. Watts; Henry Lingwood; E. Thomas, Didsbury. 

CocHIns (Ges e end Ue eer W. A. Burnell. 2, W. A. Taylor. 
8, C. Felton. hic, J. Watts ; A. Darby. if 

 Cocutns (Brown and Partridge).—Cockerel.—1, C. F. Wilson, Totton. 2, W.A. 
Taylor. 3,E.Leech. fc, B.'Tudman, Whitchurch, SRE G. Lamb, Comp- 
ton, Wolverhampton. c, J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury; J. Stephens, Walsall. 

CocHINs (Growayand Partridge)—Pullets.—1, W. A. Taylor. 
8, S. Stretch, Ormskirk. 

” CocurNs (Brown and Partridge).—Cock.—1, T. M. Derry, Godney. 
Tudman. 8,W.A. Taylor. hc, Mrs. R. White, Sheflield; J. Bloodworth. 

Cocuixs (Brown and Partridge)—Hens.—1 and Cup, W. A. Taylor. 2,E. 
Tudman. 38, J. Stephens. bas 4 

CocHINS (white)-—Cockerel.1, Mrs. A. Williamson, Leicester. 2, E. Fearon, 
Whitehaven. 8, Miss E. A. Stephens, Dublin. ic, J. Bloodworth. 

Cocuixs (White).—Pullets—1, R. Smalley. 2, G. Sbrimpton. 8, R. Chase, 
Wylde Green, Birmingham. /ic, R. Chase; Mrs, A, Williamson; R. S. 5S. 
Woodgate. c,G. Shrimpton, Leighton Buzzard; J. Weeks, Bootle. 

Cecutns (White).—Cock.—1, A. a B. Swindell, Kniver, Stourbridge. 2, W.E. 
George. 8,J.Sichel. jic, R. Smalley. 

Cousins’ (White).—Hens , G. Shrimpton. 2, J. Sichel. 8, R. Smalley. 
he, W. E. George; EB. Fearon; F. Brewer. c, S. Felgate, Ipswich. ; 

BrRanaas (Dark).—Cockerel.—l, H. P. Moor, Langley Burrell. 2, L. Wright, 
Bristol. 8, W. Adams, Ipswich. he, A. O. Worthington, Burton-on-Trent ; 
J. Kingdon, Caine; T.F.Ansdell, St. Helen’s; J. H. Pickles, Birkdale, Sonth- 
port; R. Brownlie, Kirkcaldy; W. Hargreaves, Bacup; Hon. Miss D. Pennant, 
Penrhyn Castle, Bangor; H. Lacy, Hebden Brid O. Claypole, Stoke 
Bishep. c¢, Rev. J. J. Evans, Brecon; A. O. Worthin E . Cleeve. 

BrauMmas (Dark).—Pullets—l, BE. Ensor, Bristol. Lady Gwydyr. 8, Mrs 
Hurt, Alderwasley, Derby. lic, H. B. Morrell, Clyro; Rey. J. Bowen, Treffgarne ; 
Lady Gwydyr; H. B. Morrell; L. Wright (2); Mrs. S. Vigor, Uxbridge; J. 
Watts: W. Whittaker, Belper; H. Lacy; J. K. Fowler. c, W. Whiteley, 


2, G. Lamb. 
2, E. 


| Sheffield; T. Pomfret, Preston. 


January 12, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


5 


7 


—— ————— — Ee OE 


Branmas (Dark).—Cock.—1 and Cup, Hon. Mrs. A. B. Hamilton, Woburn. 
2, H. Lacy. 8, Horace Lingwood, Creeting, Needham Market. he, Rev. J- 
Bowen; J, Dawes: L. Wright; J. 8. Tainton, Gloucester; K. Ensor; W. Whit 
taker; Hon. Miss D. Pennant. 

Bramnas (Dark).—Hens.—1 and Cup, T. F. Ansdell. 2,H.B. Morrell. 3, Mrs, 
Hurt. he, Rey. J. Bowen; Horace Lingwood; W. Gamon; J. Watts; H. Lacy. 

Braumas (Light)—Cockereli, M. Leno. 2, W. T.Storer,Brewood. 3,H.M. 
Maynard, Holmewood, Isle of Wight. he, A. O. Worthington; J. Watts; W.T. 
Storer; F. Crook; J. R. Rodbard, Wrington, Bristol. c, H.M. Maynard. 

Branmas (Light).—Pullets—1, F. Crook. 2,T.A. Dean, Moreton-on-Lugs. 

-A. 0. Wortbington. he, C.F, Wilson; E. Hoare, Wolston (2); J. Watts; J. 
Bloodworth; Mrs. s. Vigor. ah 

BrayMas (Light).—Cock.—1, Mrs. A. Williamson. 2, H. Dowsett, Pleshey, 
Chelmsford. 8, H. M. Maynard. he, F. Crook, Forest Hill; W.J. Craddock, 
Maindee, Newport, Mon. 

Branmas (Light).—Hens.—1, J.R. Rodbard. 2,F.Crook. 8,H.M. Maynard. 
he, A. O. Worthington; Mrs. A. Williamson. c, J. Pares, Pestford, Guildford. 

SPANISH.—Cockerel.—l and Cup, F. James, Peckham Rye. 2, E. Jones, 
Clifton. 3, Mrs. Allsopp. _he, E. Jones (4); Boulton & Gliddon, Bristol; G. 
Tonkin, Bristol; J. Barry, Totterdown, Bristol. c¢, Boulton & Gliddon. 

Spaniso.—Pullets—landc,E. Jones. 2, H. Lane, Bristol. 8,1. Bamfield, 
Brandon Hill,\Brisiol. he, Boulton & Glidaon; Miss E. Browne; E. Jones (2); 
J. R. Rodbard ; T. Bush, Cleeve, Bristol. 
fies CS and 2, H. Lane. 8, Miss E. Browne, Chard. c, Mrs. 

Sopp. 

SpaNisH.—Hens.—1 and Cup, T. Bamfield. 2, H. Lane. 8, Hon. MissD. 
Pennant. c, J. R. Rodbard. 2 . 

FrRENcH Fow is.—Cockerel or Cock.—l, W. O. Quibell, Newark (Créve-Cceur). 
2, R. B. Wood, Uttoxeter (Houdan). 3, W. R. Park, Melrose (Créve-Cceur), 
he, C. H. Smith, Radcliffe-on-Trent (Creve-Ceur); Rey. J. Richardson, Sandy 
(Créve-Cceur): W. Tippler, Chelmsford; W. Boutcher, Notting Hill (Créve- 
Ceur); W. ©. Quibell (Houdan). 2 

FRENCH Fowxis.—Pullets or Hens.—l, W. R. Park (Créve-Ceur). 2. Hills and 
Co., Brighton (Houdan). 3, Hon. C. W. Fitzwilliam (La Fléche) he, H. 
Wyndham, Brockhampton, Worcester (Créve-Ceur); W. O. Quibe!l (Crévye- 
Coeur); J. K. Fowler. 

Haneourcus (Gold-spangled).—Cockerel or Cock.—1, W. Driver, Keighley. 
2, H. Beldon, Goitstock, Bingley. 8, J. Buckley, Taunton, Ashton-under-Lyne. 
le, W. de Winton, Durdham Down, Bristol; J. Medway, Newton Abbott; T. 
Mayo, Wolverhampton; Miss C. E. Palmer, Lighthorne, Warwick; W. A. 
Hyde, Ashton-under-Lyne; J. H. Macnab, Barrhead. c, C. Bloodworth. 

Haxpurcus (Gold-spangled)—Pullets or Hens.—1, J. Buckley. 2, J. Ogden. 
8, W.de Winton. hc, W. Driver; J. Ogden, Hollinwood; H. Beldon; Mrs. J. 
Pattison. ¢}C. Parsons, Wolverhampton; W. A. Hyde. 

Haxeurcus (Silver-spangled).— Cockerel or Cock.—1 and Cup, H. Beldon. 
2, Miss E. Browne. 3, J. H. Howe. hc, N. Barter, Plymouth. c, Miss E. 
Browne ; J. Newick, Taunton. 

Hampurcus (Silver-svangled),—Pullets or Hens.—1 and Cup, H. Beldon. 2, J. 
Newton, Silsden, Leeds. 3, G. C. Holt, Lawton. hc, Miss E. Browne; J. H 
Howe, Denton; H. Pickles, jun., Earby. 

HausoureHs (Gold-pencilled).— Cockerel or Cock.—1 and Cup, H. Beldon. 
2, W. R. Park. 3, F. Pittis, jun., Newport House, Isle of Wight. hc, Rev. A. L. 
Willett; N. Barter; B. Bee, Goosnargh; F. Pittis; J. Preston, Allerton, Brad- 
ford. c,J. Walker, Ripley; H.H. Tompson. 

HamecncGEs (Gold-pencilled).—Pullets or Hens.—1, H.Beldon. 2, J. Walker. 
&,J.K. Fowler. hc, ¥. Pittis; R.R. Parker, Ipswich. c, J. Preston. 

Hawsorcxs (Silver-pencilled)—Cockerel or Cock.—l, H. Pickles, jun. 2, J. 
Bairstow, Fearncliffe, Bingley. 3,H. Beldon. hc, H. Smith, Moreton Banks, 


Keighley. 
Haupvrcus (Silver-pencilled)—Pullets or Hens.—l, H. Pickles, jun. 2, J. 
Bairstow. 8,N.Barter. c,J. Walker. 


Hausurcus (Black).—Cockerel or Cock—1, N. Marlor, Denton. 2, Rey. W. 
penieantscn) Acton Burnell. 3, W. A. Taylor. ke, Hon. and Rey. I. Dutton, 

ord. 

Hamecrces (Black)—Pullets or Hens.—l and Cup, Rev. W. Serjeantson. 
2,N.Marlor. 3, Hon. and Rey. F. Dutton. he, C. Sidgwick, Keighley; J. M. 
Kilvert, Wem. 

Gaur (Black-breasted Reds)—Cockerel or Cock.—1 and Cup, S. Beighton, 


avon. hc, C. H. Ames, Henley; J. Frith; S. Beighton. c, T. Mason, Green 
Ayre, Lancaster. . 

Gamez (Black-breasted Reds).—Pullet or-Hen.—1, J. Laming. 2, W. J. Pope. 
8, W. H. Stagg. hc, W. J, Pope, Biggleswade (2); W. H. Stagg (2); W. Boyes. 
c, J. Laming, Cowhurn, Spalding ; Mrs. Arkwright. 

Game (Brown-breasied Keds).—Cockerel or Cock—1 and Cup, W- Boyes. 
2, J. Laming. 3, W. Sowerbutts, Nantwich. he, J. Laming; G. Doubleday, 
Upton, Southwell: T. Mason; G. Lunt, Market Drayton; J. W. Jones, New- 
port, Monmouthshire. 

Game (Brown-breasted Reds). — Pullet or Hen.—l and Cup, S. Matthew, 
Stowmarket. 2, W. Boyes. 3, T.Burgess, Burleydam. he, W. Perrin, Bristel; 
W. Sowerbuits. 

Game (Duckwings and other Greys and Blues).— Cockerel or Cock.—l, S. 
Matthew. 2,J.Laming. 5, J. Frith, Chatsworth. ke, W. Boyes; J. Laming. 

Game (Duckwings and other Greys and Blues).—Puillet or Hen.—l, W. 
Boyes. 2, E. Bell. 8, T. West. he, W. H. L. Clare, Iry Cross, Atherstone. 
ce, J.Laming; J. Jeken, Eltham. i 

Game (Any other variety).—Cockerel or Cock.—l, J. Frith’ (Pile). 2, H. C. 
and W. J. Mason (Pile). 3, S. Matthew (Pile). hc, J. Tiley; J. Laming; E. 


Holland. 
Gaxte (Any other variety).—Pullet or Hen.—1 and 8, J. Frith. 2, Rev. G. S. 
J. 


Cruwys, Cruwys Morchard, Tiverton. hc, G. Lunt (Pile) :;.W. H.L. Clare. 
Game Bantams (Black-breasted Reds).—1 and Cup, E. Payne, Cardiff. 2, 
W. Morris. 3, Williams & Straw, Farnsfield, Southwell. lc, Miss E. S. Corn- 
wall, Wotton-under-Fdge; J, H. Nicholls, Lostwithiel; J. R. Robinson, Sunder- 

land; R. Brownlie. 

Game Bantams (Brown-breasted Reds).—1 and Cup, T. C. & E. Newbitt, 
Epworth. 2, W. Adams. 3, H. Shumach. 

Game Bantams (Any other variety)—1, H. Shumach. 2 and he, T.C. & E. 
Newhitt. 3, J. Eaton, Southweil Cb i 

Gane Bantams (Any variety)—Cock.—1 and Cu ,d-R. Robinson. 2, Mrs. H. 
Tongue, Farnsfield, Southwell. 3, H.P. Leech. ic, J. W. Morris, Rochdale; 
T. Davies, Bristol; Mrs. E. Crawford, Farnsfield; J. H. Howe; J. H. Glossop, 
jun., Weston-super-Mare, 

Bantams (Gold and Silver Sebrights).—1, 2, and Cup, M. Leno, Markyate 
neat 3, J. Watts. he, J. Watts; B. C. Greenhill, Bridgewater; Rey. G. S 

TuWwySs- 

Bantams (Black Clean-legged),—1, J. Walker. 2,E.Cambridge, Bristol. 3,J. 
Walker. jic, Mrs. T. Bush, Bristol; W.A. ‘Taylor; H.M. Maynard, Holmewood, 
Isle of Wight; H. Beldon, Goitstock; T. Davies; H. Pickles. jun. 

Bantams (White Clean-legged)—1 and 2, S.&R. Ashton, Mottram. 8, Rey. F. 
Tearle, Gazeley Vicarage, Newmarket. 

PouisH (Any variety).—Cockerel or Cock.—1, 2, and Cup, G. C. Adkins, 
Birmingham. 8, D. Mutton, Brighton (White Crest). he, M. Nicholls, Peel, 
Isle of Man; W. Gamon, Chester; G. C. Adkins; H. Beldon; T. Dean. 

PonisH (Any variety)—Pullets or Hens—1 and Cup, G. C. Adkins. 2, H. 
Beldon. 3, Mrs. J.M. Proctor, Hull. he, Mrs, J. M. Proctor; J. Hinton, War- 
minster; G. C. Adkins (2). 

ANY OTHER VaRIETY.—Cockerel or Cock.—l, J. Hinton. 2, Mrs. Llewellyn, 
Bridgend (Sultans). 8, S. Rooth, Chesterfield (Malay). hc, Miss C.E. Palmer 
(Seoten Dumpies). c, R, Hawkins, Bristol (Andalusian); F. Wilton (Black 

ochin), 


ANY OTHER Variety.—Pullets or Hens.—1, J. W. Brown, Bristol (Black 


Farnsfield, Southwell. 2, J. Forsyth, Wolverhampton. 3, W. H.Stagg, Nether- | smaller number of the latter than at any former show. 


Minoreas). 2, J. Whittaker (Dominiques). 


ino 8, H. Beldon. 
(sies); Mrs. Llewellyn (Sultans); J. Watts. c, W. B. P. 
(Malay). 

Detcxs (White Aylesbury).—1l, E. Leech, Rochdale. 2, J. K. Fowler, Ayles- 
bury. 8, Mrs. M. Seamons, Aylesbury. hc, Lady Gwydyr. 

Ducks (Rouen),—1 and Cup, L. Patton, 2,W.Gamon. 8,S. H. Stott. he,H. 
He eats Broughton, Preston; L. Patton (2); J.N. C. Pope, Stoke Bishop; J. 

. Fowler. 

Docks (Black East Indian).—1 and Cup, S. Burn, Whitby. 2 and he, W. E. 
George. 3, Rev. W. Serjeantson. 

Ducks (Any other variety).—1, S. Burn (Mandarin). 2 and 5, H. B. Smith 
(Carolinas and Sheldrake). Whole class highly commended. 

GEESE (Any variety)—1 and Cup, Rey. G. Hustler, stillingfeet Vicarage, 
York (White), 2, Mrs. M. Seamons. 3,S. H. Stott. hc, J. Baily, jun.. Mount 
Street, London (Bernicle, Egyptian, and Toulouse) (3); C. Homiray, Glen Usk, 
Caerleon (Spanish); J. K. Fowler. 

TURKEYS (Any variety).—1 and Cup, F. Lythall, Banbury (American and 
Cambridge. 2, L. Patton. 8, Rey. N. J. Ridley. fic, L. Patton; Miss J. Mil- 
ward (Cambridge). 

PIGEONS. 


Carriers (Blue or White).—1 and Cup, J. Watis. 
he, R. Fulton, Deptford. 

CaRRIEES (Black or Dun).—1 and Cup, E. Horner, Harevood. I 
Fulton. vhc, F. T. Wiltshire, Croydon (Black); G. S. Hockey; H. 
Birmingham. = ¥ 

PovurEers.—Cocks.—1, 2, and Cup, F. Gresham, Strefford. vhe, R. Fulton. c, R. 
P. Moon, Driffield. Hens—1, F. Gresham. 2andc, ki. Fulton. he, k. T. Dew, 
Weston-super-Mare (Blue). : 

Toumpers (Almond).—1 and 2, R. Fulton. vhe, F. T. Wiltshire (2); J. Ford, 
Monkwell Street, London. c, E. T. Dew. 

JacoBrxs.—l, R. Fulton. 2, E. Horner. 
castle-on-Tyne; R. Fulton. . J 

Banrps.—l and Cup, R. Fulton. 2, J. Fielding, jun., Rochdale. 


he, Lady Gwyéyr 
ayne, Shrewsbury 


vhe, J. C. Ord, Pimlico. 


c, W. B. Van Haansbergen, New- 
he, J.C. Ord 


J. Bai Son, Mount Street, London. c, E. Horner. 
TUMBLERS (Any other variety).—1, J. Ford. 2,R. Fulton. ¢,J. Fielding, jun. 
Tantaits.—l and Cup, C. Bulpin, Bridgewater. 2, J. F. Loversidge, Newark. 


vhe, J. Elgar, Newark. c, J. Baily & Son. 


TRUuMPETEES.—1, P. H. Jones, Fulham. 2, ©. Horner. jc, C. Bulpin. 


Ow s (English).—l, P. H. Jones. 2, C. Bulpin. 
Nons.—l, f.A. Dean. 2, C. Bulpin. R 2 
TuRBITS.—1, G. South. 2, E. T. Dew. he, T. Waddington, Feniscowles, 


Blackburn. c, 0. E. Cresswell, Hanworth Rectory; G. H. Gregory, Taunton; 
J. Fielding, jun.; H. Yardley. P 

Dracooens.—l, J. Holland, Manchester. 2, W. Bishop, Dorchester. vhc, G. 
South. hc, J. Watts. c, W. W. Grainger, Chiton; W.H. Mitchell; H. Yardley. 

Antwenps.—l, E. Horner. 2, C.Bulpin. hc, H. Yardley. c, C. F. Copeman, 
Birmingham. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—1, J. Bowes, Herne Bay (Archangels). 2, H. Yardley. 
vhe, E, Horner; S.A. Wyllie, Hast Moulsey (Runts). c, T. Waddington. 


KIRKCALDY POULTRY AND CANARY SHOW. 


Tre Fife and Kinross Ornithological Society held its twentieth 
annual Show in the Corn Exchange, Kirkcaldy, on the 2nd and 3rd 
inst. Year by year these exhibitions have been steadily increasing in 
the number of birds shown, and improving in the quality of the stock 
brought forward. The entries this year considerably exceeded those of 
any former year. The list of exhibitors embraced most of our Scotch 
breeders, whose names are now widely known, as well 2s many promi- 
nent English prizetakers, the Emerald Isle also contributing her quota. 
A noticeable feature in the classes is the increase of Pigeons and the 
decrease of Canaries, there being a larger number of the former and a 

Brahmas, 
too, have of late years been superseding Dorkings, but we were glad to. 
observe an increase in the number of Dorking pens this year. 

Game and Game Bantams were the largest classes exhibited. Fife 
was famous for her fighting Game in the days of yore, and now that 
exhibiting has taken the place of fighting she is not behind her former 
self. There were fifty-eight pens of Game, eighty-three of Game 
Bantams, and in all the classes of these the quality of the birds was 
excellent. The competition was a close one, and the Judge must have 
had some trouble in making his awards. There was not a bad pen in 
the Hall, and had “‘ YorksHtre,” who criticised the Game at Leeds, 
been here, he would have found all the essential characteristics of the 
breed that he seems to have there missed so much. There was the 
firm compact body, well-developed muscular thigh, strong bill and 
snake-like head, with the bold defiant carriage, that give these birds 
their sprightly bearing. Dorkings were more numerous than for some 
years past, and, in the opinion of the Judge, of finer quality than those 
shown at Birmingham and Manchester. Cochins were on the whole 
a good class; and the first-prize cockerel shown by Mrs. Oswald, of 
Dunnikier, is deserving of special notice as a bird of rare excellence_ 
The first-prize hens shown by Mr. Green, Belfast, were also very fine- 
Brahmas were ® large and good class, the cocks predominating in 
numbers, but we thought the hens were of better quality. The pair 
of Mr. Raines, Stirling, which wor the cup, were magnificent birds- 
Spanish were a smaller class than usual; the hens taking the cup 
were in all points excellent birds. Hamburghs mustered strongly, 
Golden-pencilled and Spangled being much superior to the Silver 
classes. Fowls, “Any other variety,” and Ducks were both poor 
classes. 

There was a marked improyement since last year in the Pigcons. 
Pouters were a very good class, the silver cup being carried off by a re- 
markable pair of Whites belonging to Mr. McGill. Elie, who took also 
the silver cup at the late Edinburgh Columbarian Show with the same 
cock. Carriers were a more mixed lot, some of them being of con- 
siderable merit, others very poor. Fantails showed to more advantage, 
there being some excellent birds amongst them; good, well-spread, 
compact tails, with fine carriage and tremulous motion. There would 
have been a different distribution of prizes, however, had the matching 
of the pairs been more judicious. Nuns were a good class honestly 
shown; there had evidently been no tampering with them, but the 
matching was not in all cases first-rate. Jacobins were an excellent 


38 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


elass, the first-prize particularly so, and none of them bad. Turbits 
and Owls were on the whole a splendid class. The foreign Owls shown 
by Mr. Paterson, Melrose, are deserving of special notice, they being 
very fine birds indeed. Tumblers were a small class and of no par- 
ticular merit, with the exception of Mr. Yardley’s first-prize pair. 
Barbs were not numerous, and they were generally poor, excepting the 
first-prize pair belonging to Mr. Yardley. The Any variety class was 
numerous, varied. and generally very fine. 

The north end of the Hall presented a gay appearance with its rows 
of beautiful singing birds, principally belonging tothe “Scotch Fancy,” 
hung in neat cages on a green cloth background. 

The Show, altogether, was of a most satisfactory nature, and the 
arrangements reflect great credit on the managing Committee. It was 
visited during both days by a large number of people. 


Game.—Cock.—Oup, J. W. Will, Errol 2, J. Stark, Crossgates. 8, J. Ander” 
son, Blairgowrie. hc, R. Stewart, Kelty, Blairalam ; P. Campbell, Old What» 
New Deer. c, C. Jamieson, Forfar. Reds—1, R. Stewart. 2 and 8, W. Mel- 
drum, Forfar. he, J. W. Will; J. Stark; J. Wishart, Kirkcaldy; J. H. Herriot, 
Kirkealdy; J. Liveston, Forfar. Chickens—1, J. W. Will. 2, W. Meldrum. 
3,J. Wishart. je, T. W. Mitchell, Perth; W. Chambers, Leslie; C. Jamieson; 
J. Liveston; A. Liveston, Forfar. c, J. Blair, Dollar. Any other colour.— 
1 Mrs. Harley, Edinburgh. 2,J. W. Will. 3, J, Anderson, Kirkcaldy. he, A. 
Spalding, Kinginnie, Dundee; H. Geodall. Chickens.—1, J. Elder, Kirkcaldy. 
2 and 3,J. Anderson. 

DorkinGs (Any yariety).—Cock.—1, D. Gellatly, Meigle. 2, Mrs. Morrison, 
Stirling. 3, T. Raines, Rridge Haugh, Stirling. he, D. Gellatly; T. Raines; 
Mrs. Tullis, Markinch. c,D. Annan, Cupar; Mrs. Macdonald. Errol. Hens.— 
1, A. Haggart, Lesiie. 2,D.Annan. 8, D. Gellatly. he, D. Gellatly; T. Raines 
(2); A. Hageart. 

Cocuin-Cu1na.—Cock.—1, Mrs. Oswald, Dunnikier. 2, J. Cowman, White- 
haven. 8, J. H. Dawes, Birmingham. he, A. Williamson, Oxgang, Grange- 
mouth; Mrs. Oswald; J. Cowman; F. H. Green, Windsor, Belfast. c, W. 
Linton, Selkirk. Hens.—l, F.H. Green. 2, W. Linton. 8, Mrs. Oswald. 

_BrauMa Poorra.—Cock.—l, Mrs. Gillison, Glasgow. 2 and c, R. Brownlie, 
Kirkcaldy. 8, A. Williamson. he, Miss J. Morrison; J. M‘Donald; T. Raines. 
Hens—Cup, T. Raines. 2, Mrs. Gillison. 8, J. Meldrum, Kirkcaldy. 
Cowman; F. H. Green, Kirkealdy; H. Connell. 

SpanisH.—Cock.—1. J. Soutar, Carnoustie. 2, A. Shepherd, Meigle. 8, R. 
Somerville, Edinburgh. Hens.—Cup, A. Shepherd. 2 and 3, R. Somerville. 

Hamsurcus.—Spangled.—Cock.—Cup, J. W. Will. 2 and 3, J. Bell, Cowden- 
keath. he, W. M. Elder, Leslie. Hens.—l, J. W. Will. 2, A. Crosbie, Gatton- 
side, Melrose. 8, R. Dickson, Selkirk. he, Mrs. Harvey; G. Caithness. Pen- 
eilled.—Cock.—l, J. W. Will. 2, J. M. Campbell, New Byth. 8, W. R. Park, 
Melrose. he, D. Normand, Kennoway; R. Coupar, Falkland; A. W. Penman, 
peels Hens.—i, A. Pratt, Kirkcaldy. 2, Mrs. Harvey. 8, W.R. Park. hc, R. 

ouper. 

Game Bantams.—Reds—Cock.—Cup, J. W. Will. 2, Master W. Brownlie, 
Wirkealdy. 8, E. Harwood, Accrington. hc, Mrs. Abel, Forfar; T. Raines; W. 
Scott, Jedburgh; J. M. Campbell. Hens.—l, Miss N. Brownlie. 2, T. Raines. 
3, J. Archibald, Earlston. he, Mrs. Abel: G. Anderson; R. Frew, Kirkcaldy ; J. 
Ross, Pathead. c, T. W. Mitchell; G. K. Scobie, Dunfermline. Any other 
C€olowr.—Cock.—1 and 2, W. Scott. 8, J. Archibald. he, W. Clark, Kirkcaldy; 
Miss Brownlie; W. Henderson, Kirkcaldy: D. Gillespie. Hens.—1, R. 
Stewart. 2,A.T. Mills, Kirkcaldy. 8, W. Scott. 

Bantams (Any other variety)—1l, Master A. Frew (Silver-laced). 2, H. 
Yardley, Birmingham. 3, J. Rutherford, Auchtermuchty. 

ANY OTHER VaRIETY.—1, W. Paterson, Colinsburgh (Golden Polands). 2, D. 
Gellatly (Houdans). 3,J. Rutherford (Houdans). 

3 CE (Any variety).—1, R. Dickie, Burnside, Alva. 2, A. Haggart. 8, A. 
palding, 

SEciiInG Crass (Any variety)—1 and c, J. Stoutar (Spanish and Hondans). 
2, A. Small, Glasgow (Greys) 8, F. H. Green (Cochins). he, D. Gellatly (Dorkings), 

: PIGEONS. _ 

PovutErs.—Cup, J. M‘Gill, Elie. 2, J. Morrison, Morningside, Edinburgh. 
3.J. Grant, Edinburgh. he, W. Rutherford, Edinburgh; H. Bonthron, Edin- 
burgh ; J. M‘Gill. y p 

Carrrers.—l, H. Yardley. 2, M‘Gill Skinner, Edinburgh. 8, A. Lockhart, 
iXirkcaldy. 

Fantatts.—l, A. Smith, Broughty Ferry. 2, J.G. Spence, Edinburgh. §, J. 
F. Loversidge, Newark. he, A. Lockhart; E. Hope, Kirkcaldy. 

TumBLERs.—l, H. Yardley. 2, F. D. Wood, Edinburgh. 38, J. Bruce, Dun- 


he, J. 


fermline. 
Nons.—l, Miss Drummond. Megginch Castle, Errol. 2, R. Paterson. 38, J. 
Bell. he, R. Frew. c, W.B. Van Haansbergen, Newcastle. 


Jacopins.—l, W. B. Van Haansbergen. 2, H. Yardley. 8, J. G. Spence. 
he, R. Paterson: T. W. Kilburn; W. B. Van Haansbergen. 

TouRBITS OR Owxs.—l and 2, R. Paterson (Owls and Turbits). 3, H. Yardley 
(Owls). he, J. G. Spence (Owls). i 

Barsgs.—l, H. Yardley. 2and8, Withheld. 

ANY OTHER Varrety.—l, W.B. Van Haansbergen (Trumpeters). 2, A. Crosbie 
(Letz). 3, J. Grant, Edinburgh (Magpies). hc, T. Imrie (Archangels); T. W. 
Kailourn (Frillbacks). 

CANARIES. 


YEtLow.—Cocks.—l, R. Hunter, Longonr, Tillicoutry. 2,J.Small, Edinburgh. 
3. W. Muirhead, jun., Allea. Hen.—l, J. Hogg, Oakley, Dunfermine. 2, W. 
‘fnnes, Kirkealdy. 3, R. Farmer, Kirkcaldy. 

Burr.—Cock.—1, G. Spence, Dysart. 2, D. Allan, Leith. 8, J. Hunter, Kirk- 
ealdy. Hen.—l, J. Lawson, Dundee. 2 and 3, W. Muirhead, jun. é 

YELLOW FLECKED.—Cock.—l, J. Sime, Grahamstown, Falkirk. 2 ana 8, D. 
Allan. Hens—1, R. Hunter. 2,G. Spence. 8, D. Duncan, Carron. 

Burr FLEcKED.—Cocks.—1, C. Smith. 2, R. Farmer. 3, R. Brown. Hens.— 
1, J. Lawson. 2, D. Allan. 


GoxpFincH Mutes (Yellow or Buff).--1, 2, and 8, J. Robertson, Aberdour. 


Jupers.—Poultry: Mr. R. Teebay, Fulwood, Preston. Pigeons: 
Mr. J. Millar, Glasgow. Canaries: Mr. J. M‘Gill, Elie. 


PAISLEY ORNITHOLOGICAL SHOW. 


Tue seventeenth annual Exhibition was held on the 2nd and 3rd 
inst., in the Drill Hall, which was closely packed with cages, there 
being upwards of 1500 birds for competition. The show was admir- 
able. Game and Hamburghs were present in preat numbers. Perhaps 
there has never been a larger and better exhibition of Pigeons. The 
great interest, however, was centred in the Canary department, in 
which were 281 entries. Altogether the Show was a great success, and 

* far exceeded those of previous years. ” 

SpanisH.—l, J. Dunlop. 2, A. Walker, Kilmarnock. 3,J. Hamilton, Salt- 
coats. 4, Miss Rae, Garngad Hill, Glasgow. hc,J.M’Innes. c,J. Gray, Airdrie. 
Chickens.—1 and Special, A. Yuill, Airdrie. 2, W. Peden, Craighead. 8, W. C. 
Hardie, Carron. 4. Foster, Green, & Co., Belfast. he, Mrs. Gillison, Milngavie. 
c,d. Hamilton. Hens.—l, A. Shiphard, Keggle, Yorkshire. 2, W. C. Hardie, 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 12, 1871. 


8, W. Peden. 4, J. MInnes. he, R. Campbell, Glenfirn. c, J. R. Rennards, 
Helensburgh. 

Dorxines.—1, Mrs. Alston, Craighead. 9. A. Grant, Kilbarchan. 38, A. 
M’Dougald, Moffat. Airdrie. 4, J. Dollar, Kirkintilloch. he, J. Paul, Glasgow. 
Chickens.—1 and 2, Mrs. Alston. 8 and 4. Z. H. Heys, Snringfield, Barrhead. 
White—1, J. Bell, Dalmellington. 2, R. Farrow. Dalmellington. 8, R. Cron. 
Dalmellington. 4, Mrs. Tudhope, Meigleriges. Hens.—1, A. M‘Donald. 2, R, 
camebell nu Mrs. Alston. 4,Mrs.Gillison. jc, W. Wotherspoon, Castlehead ; 

. Shiphard. 


CocHin-Curna.—1 and Special, W. Peden. 2,J.H.Green, Belfast. 3, J- Gray. 
4, J. Pollock, Bushby. he. H. Paton, Largs. 

BrauMa-Poorra.—l and Special, J. H. Green. 2 and Special, Mrs. Gillison. 
8, Mrs. Alston. 4, A. Rovertson, Kilmarnock. hc, R. Abercrombie, Paisley. 

Scorcu.—1, J. Paul. 2,J. Meiklem, Hamilton. 3 and Special,A. Dunlop. 4, 
J. Kirkpatrick, Waterton, Patna. c, R. Cumming, Beith: J. Meiklem. 

HamBvrcus.—Gold-spangled.—1 and Special, J. H. M’Nab, Barrhead. 2, R. 
Mackie, Stewerton. 8.J. Holbourn, Stewarton. 4,A. Robertson. he, H. Pickles, 
Earby. Silver-spangled —1. J. Stewart, Barreead. 2, H. Colligan, M.D., Paisley. 
3,R. Mackie. 4,A.Glen, Paisley. Hens.—1,R. Bruce, Bushby. 2.A- Stirling, 
Barrhead. 3, J. H. M’Nab. 4,H. Pickles. Gold-pencilled—1 and Special, H. 
Pickles, Earby. 2. W. Creelman, Kilmarnock. 3, W. Peden. 4. J. Smith, 
Stewarton. he, D. Watson West Glen. Silver-pencilled.—l. H. Colligan, M.D. 
2. H. Pickles.. 8. Miss Lindsay. 4,J.Sharn, Johnstone. Hens.—1, R. M‘Nab. 
Ceretoaetet 2, Miss M. Ingram, Paisley. 3, H. Colligan, M.D. 4, J. Jack, West 

ilbride. 

Torpgp PoLanps.—l, J. Forsyth, Carmile. 2, W.Hardie. 3, H. Pickles. 4, 
J. Hunter, Greenock. 

Gauz.—Black-breasted and other Reds.—1, J. M‘Nab. 2, J. M‘Laughlan, 
Paisley. 3 and he, J. Waddell, Airdrie. 4, C. Jamieson, Forfar c, J. Fraser, 
Dalmellington; W. Martin. Barrhead. Any other Colour.—i, D. Harley. 2, T. 
Davidson. Longtown. 3. R. Andrew, Barrhead. 4, J. Gray. he and c, P. 
M‘Farlane, Pollockshaw. c.J. Gray. ‘ 

ANY OTHER VARIETY —1, J. Allan, Kilbirnie. 2, B.M. Knox, Kilbirnie. 3,J. 
Fulton, Beith. 4, A- Williamson, Grangemouth. 

Ducks.—Aylesbury.—|, W. Mullican, Springfield. Belfast. 2, Z. H. Heys. 
8. A. Robertson. 4, R. Campbell. Rowen.—l, W. Mu'ligan. 2 and 3, J. Pollock, 
Mearns. 4, A. Robertson. ia 

RanTams.—Game.—l, Z. H. Heys. 2, Bellingham & Gill, Burnley. 3, J. 
Mitchell, Perth. 4, T.R.Hamilten, Avr. c.J.Gray. Black.—1, A. Mitchell, 
Paisley. 2.S.&R. Ashton, Mottram. 8, J. Waddell. 4.J. Wilson, Beith. Any 
other Variety—1, S. & Ashton. 2, J. D. S. Crawford, Kilbarchan. 3, J. 
Waddell. 4, A. Grant, Kilbarchan. he, A. Yendell, Galston; H. Yardley, 
Birmingham. c, T. Craig, Paisley. E es 4 

SELLING Criss.—l, Mrs. Alston. 2,H. Paton (Cochin-China). 8, C. Wilson 
(Hamburchs). 4, J. Gow, Kilbarchan. c, D. Skeoch, Stewarton; H. Fleming, 
Belfast (Hamburghs). 

PIGEONS. 


Povurers.—Blue—1 and 2. J. Millar, Glasgow. 8, J. Cochran, Glasgow. 
he W. Nelson, Johnstone. Black.—l and 3, J. Millar. 2, J. Sharp, Johnstone. 
White—l, H. Yardley. 2and3,J.Sharp. he, G. B. Philips, Ayr. Any other 
Colour.— . Mair, Kilmarnock. 2, J. Millar. 8, J. Cochon, Glasgow. 

ToumnmtEns.—Short-faced.—l and 3, T. Wilson. 2, H. Yardley. he. J.Sharp. 
Any other Variety—1 and 2, R. Blair, Johnstone. 8, W. Reid, Lochwinnock. 


he. J. Wallace, Airdrie. . = 
3, J, Richmond, Kilmarnock. 


Canriprs.—l, H. Yardley. 2,J. Mair. 3,J, 
eae T. Wilson. 2, J. Galt, Kilbirnie. 3,J.Sharpe. hc, W. Anderson, 

lasgow. 

JacoBINS.—1 and 8, J. R. Rennards. 2,J.Sharpe. c, H. Yardley. 

Nouns.—l, J. Murray, Darvel. 2, T. Imrie, Ayr. 3, G. Gilchrist, Darvel. he, J. 
Lambie, New Cumnock : : 

TourBits—l, J. Sharp. 2.J.R.Rennards. 3, R. Gibson, Kilmarnock. 

Coxumon.—l, C. Kerr, Beith. 2. J. Wilson. 38, R. Stevenson, Beith. > 

ANY OTHER VanriEty.—l, J. Mair. 2,H. Yardley. 3,J.Sharp. he, J.Millar. 
c, R. M. Banks, Ayr. a i 

SELLING Cuass.—l, R. Niven, Paisley. 2, J. Murray, Darvel. 3, J. White, 


Paisley. 
CANARIES. 

Parr or CrEan.—1 and 3, A. Kelly, Paisley. 2, J. Gray. 4, T. Buchanan, 
Glasgow. tty 

YELLOw.—Cock.—1, J. Meldrum, Glasgow. 2, W.Love,Kilbirnie. 8,J.Barr, 
Glasgow. 4, T. Fernie, Paisley. Hen.—l, R.Cron. 2, W. Wright, Greenoch. 
8, W. Webster, Kilbarchan. 4, R. Houston, Kilbirnie. 2 

Burr.—Coek.—1 and Special, J. Conn, Alnwick Lodge. 2, W. Paterson, Alnwick 
Lodge. 8, J. Richmond, Kilmarnock. 4, J. Crawford, Dalry. Hen.—l, R. 
Calderwood: Kilmarnock. 2, M. Barr, Paisley. 3, A. Millar, Rutherglen. 4, J. 

ibson. 

Prepatn.—1, A. Kelly. 2, J. Gray. 8, R. Wood, Paisley. 4, A. M‘Kessock, 
Dalry. Yellow Cock.—l. J. Pettigrew, Carluke. 2, R. Murray. 3, A. Millor, 
4,3. Barr. Hen.—1,N.M Lean, Glasgow. 2, D. Haldane. Alnwick Lodge. 3, A. 
Crawford, Johnstone. Buff Cocks.—1 and Special, J. Pettigrew. 2, A. Lees, 
Beith. 8, J. Gray. 4, W. Paterson. Hens.—l, A. Crawford. 2, G. Burgess, 
Dumbarton. 3, A. Reid. 4,J. White. 


Goupricu.—l. J. Muir, Dalry. 2, T. Reive, Glasgow. 
Airdie. 2, R. Bell, Paisley. 2 

Howe or ForetcN Brrps—l, W. Spiers, Overton, Johnstone. 
Paisley. hc, A. Eaglesim, Paisley. 

Jupers.—Poultry: Mr. J. Stewart, Helensburgh; Mr. J. M‘Lach- 
lan, Paisley; Mr. W. Farquhar, Barrhead; Mr. J. Lindsay, Stewar- 
ton; Mr. J. M'Innes, Paisley; and Mr. R. Calderwood, Kulmarnock. 
Pigeons: Mr. J. Muir, Milport. Cage Birds: Mr. J. Mair, Kil- 
marnock; Mr. A. Mitchell, Paisley; Mr. G. Grant, Glasgow; Mr. J. 
Kelly, Johnstone; Mr. J. White, Paisley; and Mr. R. Paterson, 
Howwood. 


Mules.—l, J. Gray, 
2, A. Liggatt, 


RABBITS AT THE YORK SHOW. 


No doubt many of your readers, especially those in the Rabbit fancy, 
will remember the letters in “our Journal” on the aboye subject. 
Of one writer, who signed himself ‘J. B.,"’ the greatest objection to 
showing at York was the fancy varieties having to be shown in pairs, 
he being afraid of his does being in young after such a show. But 
upon a letter appearing signed ‘‘ M. Millington, York,” stating the fancy 
varieties were to be shown in separate pens, I (who am “J. B.,”) was 
induced to send five pairs. ‘They arrived home perfectly safe, but to 
my extreme surprise and indignation I found my finest Himalayan 
doe had kindled on Friday the 6th inst. upon the bare straw without 
any nest whatever. I may mention she is very young, and this is her 
first litter. Will Mr. Millington, as the manager of the Rabbit de- 
partment at York, be kind enough to explain how this has happened 
if the Rabbits were put in separate pens? They were sent in separate 
compartments in the boxes. Ishould be glad to hear if any of the 


January 12, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


other exhibitors of the fancy kinds have experienced the same.— / 


James Boyte, sun., Blackburn. 


THIRSK CANARY AND FOREIGN BIRD SHOW. 


Turrsk does everything properly ; so it advertised, and its Show was 
a great success. It was unfortunate that there were, I think, no less 
than four shows fixed for the last week in the old year. It was a 
mistake ; but, once committed to the responsibilities of a show, it is 
difficult to withdraw. Three out of the four I knew something of, and 
wrote to the secretaries, advising them of the possibility of a collision, 
and suggesting means to make each subservient to the other, and the 
whole a success. Darlington, the first in the week, collapsed, which I 
am sorry for, as under careful management it should have pulled 
through. Of Stokesley, the last show of the week, I do not know the 
result, not haying seen any return, but I trust the exertions of its com- 
mittee were not in vain. There are, however, wheels withia wheels, 
and motive powers in the machinery of a show, which do not always 
appear on the surface, and with reference to this, committees will find 
that independent action will tell best in the long run; and any town 
which can hold its show only by consent of its neighbour, bases its 
claims to public support on a sandy foundation, and should carefully 
study the fable of ‘‘ the old man and his ass.” 

I found Thirsk in the same place, and the yellow ’bus with the pair 
of greys seemed as though it had been waiting in the snow since last 
Christmas to carry us (for my wife and the black bag went to see the 
Show) to the door of the “Black Lion,” where the worthy host and 
hostess gave us aright hearty Christmas welcome, doing all that genial 
hospitality could do to remind us that Christmas comes only once a-year. 

As soon as I was thawed I went to the Show-room, to wish Mr. Bailey 
the compliments of the season, and we sat chatting ‘‘ Canary lore” 
over the fire till the small hours of the morning, when I left him try- 
ing to find out the softest board in the floor for a bed, as no persuasion 
could induce him to desert his post as night watchman over the fires. 
The result of his careful attention was apparent when I entered the 
room to judge. 
be found suffering from the inclement weather, and it is only giving 
Mr. Bailey his due to say that a more careful, conscientious custodian 
of birds it has never been my pleasure to meet. 

Of the Canaries I shall only say that they included the best speci- 
mens of the year. The Mules formed an excellent collection, Mr. 
Ashton taking the principal honours in Jonque and Mealy Goldfinch ; 
and Mr. Stansfield running first in the ‘‘ Any other Variety” with his 
splendid Bullfinch and Goldfinch. The rara avis of this class was Mr. 
Ashton’s Bullfinch and Linnet Mule. Asa hybrid it is unique, but is 
not just now in good show condition. Mr. Robinson’s Brown Linnet 
Mule in the same class I noticed in my notes on Darlington. It has 
improved greatly. 

A most prominent feature in the Show was the splendid exhibition 
of Foreign Birds, of which there was a large entry ; Mr. W. Bailey, of 
Purfleet, Essex, making a great show, and carrying off the greater part 
of the prizes. Both the Secretary and his brother are great admirers 
of the more gorgeous birds of warmer climes, and Mr. W. Bailey’s 
name will be familiar to all visitors to the Crystal Palace Annual 
Show, where he has always been a successful exhibitor. I think that 
at no distant date the readers of our Journal may expect to see a series 
of articles from his pen on the different varieties of foreign birds, with 
hints on their management. Such papers will be read with interest, 
and will lead to an extension of our prize schedules in this direction. 
—W. A. Buarston. 

P.S.—I have said nothing about somebody subsiding gracefully into 
the snow. I promised I would not, and I have kept my word. 

Beuaian.— Yellow, Clear or Ticked.—l, J. M. Harrison, Belper. 2, Stevens 
and Burten, Middlesbrough. 8, Withheld. Bug, Clear or Ticked.—1 and 2, J. 
Close, Derby. 8, J. M. Harrison. 

Norwicu.—Jonque.—l1 and 2, Moore & Wynne, Northampton. 8, R. Hawman, 
Middlesbrough. hc, W. Bailey, Essex. Buj.—l and 2, Moore & Wynne. 3, R. 
Hawman. LHvenly-marked Jonque.—l, R. Hawman. 2 and vhc, Moore and 
Wynne. 8, E. Mills, Sunderland. c, H. N. Frosbrook, Doncaster. Evenlv- 


marked Buff.—1 and 2, Moore & Wynne. 8, E. Mills. hc, W. & C. Burniston, 
Middlesbrough. ¢, H.N. Frosbrook; J. Calvert, York. 

CIxNAMON. —Jonque.—l and 2, S. ‘omes, Northampton. 8, Wells & Clarke, 
Hatfield, Doncaster. c, E. stainsfield, Bradford: Moore & Wynne. Buf.— 
land 8, Moore & Wynne. 2,S. Tomes. /ic, R. Hawman; Moore & Wynne. 

YoRKsSHIRE.—1, R. Hawman. 2,K. Mills. 8, A. Webster, Kirkstall. vhe, Stevens 
and Burton; E. Stainsfield ; J. Taylor, Middlesbrough. hc, G. Horner, Thirsk; 
H. & W. Winter, Guisborough. 

Lizarv.—Golden-spangled.—1, Stevens & Burton. 2, J. Taylor. 8, R. Haw- 
man. hc, BR. Mills; H. Ashton, Prestwich; J. M. Harrison; Stevens & Burton. 
Stlver-spangled.—l, H. Ashton. 2 and hc, Stevens & Burton. 8,J.M. Harrison. 
ORE Leueaies breed),—1 and 2 

RESTED y breed).—1 and 2,Moore & Wynne. 3,H.N.Frosbrook. vhe¢,R. 
Hawman. es T. Irons; W. Bailey. oe ; i 

GoxpFixncH MULE.—Clear or Marked Yellow.—1 and 2, H. Ashton. 8, W: 
Baileys ; Clear or Marked Buff.—l, H. Ashton. 2, W.& C. Burniston. 8, H.and 

. Winter. 

Mote (Any other variety).—l, E. Stainsfield. 2 and vic, H. Ashton. 8, C. 
Robinson, Gainsford. 

GREEN Canaky.—l, Stevens & Burton. 2, Moore & Wynne. 

GoLpFrInoH.—l, J. M. Harrison. 2, J. Calvert. 

LrynEt (Brown).—l, T. Bailey. 2, J. M. Harrison. 

RULE Oe cae in iety) 

RITISH SONG Birp (Any other variety).—1l, A. Webster. 2, T. Bailey. 
Love Binps.—1, W. Bailey. 2, T- Bailey. | c 2 ue 
ARAKEETS.—Australian.—l, W. Bailey. 2,J.Calvert. <Any other Variety.— 
1, W. Bailey. 2, J. Nicholson. ed i 
MocRI Roos OE Br aweN aay, VON Ww. pales 
ARROT —Grey.—l, W. ley. 2, A. Milner, Thirsk. Any other Variety.— 
1, W. Bailey. Any other Varicty.—1,T. Bailey. 2, W. Bales y 


Among three hundred entries there was not a bird to | 


BEst COLLECTION OF FOREIGN or BritisH Brrps.—1, W. Bailey. 2, T- 
Bailey. 


JupGce.—Mr. W. A. Blakston, Sunderland. 


THE SCOTTISH COLUMBARIAN ASSOCIATION, 


EDINBURGH. 


Tue Socrety.—Although the Society has been established but a 
few months its déhit may at once be recorded as a success, continuins 
and in some respects even rivalling, the oft-repeated successes of the 
Glasgow fanciers. At the ontset its prospectus recalls the advanced 
and still advancing estimation in which Pigeon culture is now held. 
The many artistic phases of this pursuit and the curious naturalistic 
phenomena it discloses have long been recognised in the middle-class. 
world; but the charmed circle of fanciers is ever wideuing, and “ right 
honourables”” may now be found therein aspiring to columbarian dis- 
tinction—a sign of the times again attested in the acceptance by the 
Earls of Haddington and Rosslyn of the Honorary Presidency of the 
new Society. In association with these gentlemen follow Messrs. 
Huie and Ure as President and Vice-President; two of our most ardent 
fanciers, and who, by great personal exertion, have forwarded the new 
undertaking, assisted by Mr. Robert Blair as Treasurer, and specially 
aided by the unremitting and good-humonred labours of Mr. Joseph 
Luis, the Society's Honorary Secretary. The members—principally 
residents of Edinburgh—must not be left out of account, for to them is 
due the merit of enabling the Association to appear in public furnished 
with superior plant, and with a sufficiency of entries to secure the 
treasury from embarrassment. 

THE SHow, announced as the first annual exhibition of the Asso- 
ciation, was held in the Music Hall, George Street, a room of com- 
manding proportions, elaborately decorated, thoroughly lighted, in 
every sense commodious, and above all well-affected by the Edinburgh 
public. The choice of head-quarters so suitable harmonises with the 
refinement which should always influence our exhibition arrangements. 


| A liberal policy marked the classification; the provision for young 


birds being too lavish, however, as an arrangement for repetition, 
although perhaps well advised for the special occasion. 465 entries 
were brought out by the schedule, comprising in all some 620 birds ; 
and the arrangement of these in double rows, the contrast of the 
yaried pluraage with the white drapery, the shapely form of the cages, 
the liveliness of their occupants, the moving groups of visitors, and 
the hall itself—all contributed to a most pleasing ensemble. Viewed 
from the orchestra or gallery, whezce a comprehensive survey of 
the whole scene could be taken, the effect was particularly striking, 


| especially eliciting the admiration of those who were making their first 


acquaintance with a Pigeon exhibition, and even the oldest fanciers 
confessed that such a combination had rarely before been presented to 
their notice. 

Without Pouters a show in Scotland would scarcely be acknowledgod, 
Pouters, therefore, as ever, occupied by far the larger half of the pens. 
The very recent criticism of this variety in all its divisions leaves hut 
little of general advancement to chronicle. With but trifling moditi- 
cation the remarks of a twelvemonth ago apply now; and, indeed, 
within the compass of a single season but a step or two only can be 
gained. It will, therefore, be almost sufficient to report clear evidences 
of progress as displayed—first, by the presence of a more than average 
number of specimens conspicuous for structural refinement ; and next, 
by the eagerness of most exhibitors to possess themselves of cross¢s. 
from stocks of sound pedigree. In Blacks the Vice-President carried 
many honours, showing no less than one-third of the number exhibited. 
So pronounced an effort on the part of an experienced fancier, togetber- 
with the general usefulness of the birds possessed by other competitors. 
should be the ‘‘ foreshadow of coming events.” 

Proverbial philosophy completely breaks down before the continued 
plumage-debasement of the Reds. ‘‘ When things come to the worst: 
they are sure to stand still,” appears to be for them the reading of 
the old adage. But whether or no they are at their worst, or standing: 
still, or are mending, matters but little. To the fancier of taste and 
skill they pregent an opportunity in the art of colour-enrichment 
which assuredly will not be lost, the more so as a basis of structure: 
and carriage sufiiciently sound remains. 

The Blue classes were distinguished not only by numerical strength, 
but also by excellence. Birds of mark and character appeared at 
every turn; and, for the encouragement of English breeders, it may 
be stated that the class for young Blue cocks was headed by the 
London-bred bird which the week before had won the Crystal Palace 
cup for the best cock bred in 1870. 

As White Pouters display no special structural advantages over theiz 
coloured kindred, purity of plumage is their essential distinctive title 
to consideration. This essential is being disregarded, even at Edin- 
burgh, where better things might have been expected. Although many 
shapely birds enriched the White division, it must be insisted upon 
that an Adonis-like form is no apology for dirt, but rather intensifies 
the disfigurement. The bird’s demeanour even favours the bad 
impression, and, any way, he is the worse of a town life. 

Of other salient points in the Pouter classes much in praise might 
be said did space permit, but it will be enough to add that a deter- 
mined spirit of progress is manifest amongst the Scotch fanciers. It 
is felt that the combination of superior form with refined colour and 
marking presents an unlimited field for tasteful exertion, and it 


40 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 12, 1871. 


desired more and more to stimulate highly selective matching. Another 
communication will deal with the remaining features of this exhi- 
bition — W. VoLcEMAan. 


[Want of space has obliged us to omit some paragraphs.—EDs. | 


POULTRY CONDIMENTS OR TONICS. 


Mr. Mitts, en apothecary in France, recommends from ex- 
perience the following as an unfailing tonic or stimulant for 
debilitated fowls, and especially for young Turkeys during the 
critical stage, when he says its effects are most marked and 
salutary. The prescription is copied from the French Journal 
d' Agriculture Pratique.—Take 
Cassia bark in fine powder, three | Gentian, one part 


parts Anise seed, one part 
Ginger, ten parts Carbonate of iron, five parts. 


Mix thoroughly by sifting. A teaspoonful of the powder 
should be mingled with the dough for twenty Turkeys, each 
morning and evening. It is of the greatest importance to begin 
the treatment a fortnight before the appearance of the red, and 
to continue it two or three weeks after. 


Export or Fowns to Amunricas.—By a letter just received 
from Mr. Simpson, treasurer of the New York State Poultry 
Society, in answer to some inquiries I made a month since, I 
am informed that on and after January 1st all poultry and 
other breeding stock were to be admitted into the United States 
duty free. Previously there was a duty of 20 per cent. ad valorem, 
which was an immense tax on really valuable fowls, and, though 
it was often evaded by a fee to the officer, was a great hindrance 
to importing good stock. The relaxation is owing entirely to 
the exertions of the Society, and will be good news to fanciers 
on both sides of the water.—L. WricHT. 


Coat Tar ror Bez House.—In answer to your correspon- 
dent, ‘‘A NorruumMBERLAND BrE-KEEPER,’” I have a wooden 
bee house. I covered it with asphalted felt about eight years 
azo, and [ have tarred it once since, but I have never found 
the tar in any way afiect the bees; in fact, I had the best two 
virgin hives of honey that I ever had out of the tar-roofed 
house the same year. Mine is but a small house, and only 
tarred on the roof, and possibly the tar might affect the bees 


more if the house were large and tarred all over.—T. E., North | 


Wales. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Books (A Recent Subscriber).—There is no book on Spanish fowls only. 
“‘The Poultry Book for the Many” gives all needful details, and can be 


had free by post from our office if you euclose 64d. in postage stamps, | 


with your address. 


Suppry oF EccGs—Houpan Movuntine (R. W.).—You are the one out 
of the thousand. In country villages eggs made 2d. each during Christ- 
mas week, and it has been difficult in London to get eggs fit forthe 
breakfast table at less than 3d. each. Send us your notes. Your Ham- 
burgh cock is not moulting in a healthy manner, and the hens with him 
have been eating his tail. He must be removed, or they will spoil him 
by continuing their cannibal propensities. It is rather an indication 
that your birds are too highly fed. We shall be very glad to have your 
poultry experience. We consider it among the most useful and interest- 
ing information we can convey. 


BRAuMA PULLET’S Crop (4 Duffer).—It may be your pullet hasa broken 
crop, and it therefore hangs loose in front. If it is so, shut her up, let 
her feed sparingly, and drink but little at two separate times every day. 
She must have no water by her. If she have she will continue drinking 
in hopes of relief from her discomfort, and the malady will get worse. 
If she be compelled to abstain from water the crop will likely contract. 
You must feel carefully whether there is anything that almost closes the 
passage from the crop to the gizzari. We have knowa such a thing, and 
once took outa carrot 3 inches in length. 


Game Bantams (S. G.).—If there is no special clause to allow it, the 
undubbed bird will be disqualified if shown against dubbed ones. The 
operation may be performed any time except during a frost. We do not 
advise you to pull out the flight feathers of the cock. If detected it will 
lead to a painful disqualification, and such things may be practised but 
they are not allowed. You may exhibit the Duckwing pullet with a good 


prospect of success if you put her with a good cock. We know no work 
devoted to Game fowls. 


Eee Suppry (4. M.).—Yours is a deserved success. You hatched your 
chickens at the right time forlaying. It is as natural for a Hamburgh 
pullet hatched in April to lay in December as for a man to cease growing 
ut twenty-five. They have lived and laid in spite of the sawdust, and 
not because of it. 


FEATHERED-LEGGED BAnTAMS (4n Admirer of the Bantan’s TForm).— 
The Bantams you speak of were formerly called Booted Bantams. They 
are principally excluded from the shows because none are shown. They 
do not lack admirers, 


Fowts rv ConFINED Space (J, D,),—You may keep a cock and four, six, 


oreight hens in the space 20 feet by 9,and a fowl house. The number 
will depend on your management and supply. We hardly need tell you 
such a limited space does not provide the many things that are essential 
to a fowl's well-doing. Road grit, growing grass, fresh mould, bricklayers’ 
rubbish, lettuce or other green food must all be supplied according to 
the number of fowls kept. The best birds will be Creve-Cceur, Spanish, 
or Brahma, for egg-producing. 

Cock PURPLE-COMBED AND Moprxc (Young Beginner)—Separate the 
cock from the hens till his comb is thoroughly healed. They will eat it 
as long as there is any wound or sore. Purge the cock thoroughly with 
castor oil, then give Baily’s and camphor pills. 

UMBRELLAS AND Sticks aT Pocttry SHows.—J. H.” informs us that 
the Committee of the Barrow-in-Furness Show have adopted his sugges- 
tion, that all sticks and umbrellas are to be left at the door. 


Hovupans AND CREVE-Ce@trRs (Reader).—A full description with illus- 
trations was published in Nos. 62 and 63 New Series of this Journal, and 
republished in a collective form in our ‘‘ Poultry-keepers’ Manual.” 


ANTWERPs AT MANCHESTER (JW. Justice).—You have adopted the right 


course. We cannot insert any relative statement until both sides have 
been heard. 


GrRouNnD BoNEs FoR CHIckEens (A Constant Subscriber)—The smaller 
the pieces the better. We prefer the powder, but the sample, the frag- 


ments the size of pins’ heads, willdo. Green bones are quite as useful 
for the purpose as dry bones. 


Turirsk SHow (A. J. W.).—Mistakes will occur, and you will see in our 
report that Mr. BaiJey did not shrink from his labours. 


East Kent Pouttry SHow.—Mr. G. Raynor informs us that the third 
prize for Game chickens was awarded to him, and not to Mr. T_ G. Ledger. 


Sick Dracoon (A Weekly Reader)—Your bird has roup; we gave the 


most probable cures for this complaint in our number for November 17th, 
to which we refer you. 


Ponts IN Buack Carrier (T. 4. Dean).—Skull long, straight, narrow 
between the eves, and flat at the top. Beak long, straight, thick; length 
ofskull and beak 22 inches. Eye red; wattle of the eye round and regu- 
lar—i.e., of equal width. Beak-wattle tilting forward and standing well 
up. The plumage should be dense and close, so that the bird may have a 
solid look. The carriage should combine grace and strength. Shoulders 
broad, chest full, limbs long, head well up, so that the eye is directly over 
the toe3, neck long and thin, back rather hollow. 


Licurtan Bers (H. Jenner).—You may obtain a Ligurian queen either 
direct from Mr. Woodbury, or from those who advertise them in our 
columns, but you are not likely to get one until May or possibly June 
The price varies with the season. The best mode of uniting queens is 
fully described in our number published on the 5th August, 1869. You 
will find a smouldering roll of linen rags of not less than an inch in 
diameter, and lighted at one end, the smoke of which may be directed by 
the breath as required, the most efficient means of controlling and sub- 
duing your vicious bees. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Janvary 11. 


We have no alteration worth quoting this week, and our supplies are 
sufficient for toe meagre attendance of buyers we have now. 


FRUIT. 
8.d. 8 da s.d. s. d 
1 0to2 Q| Mulberries............Jb. 0 Oto0 0 
- 0 0 O 0} Nectarines. -doz 00 O00 
- 0 0 O OQ} Oranges.. 2100 6 0 10 0 
0 0 18 G| Peaches ....... doz 00 00 
0 0 O O} Pears,kitchen . doz. 10 20 
2 0.10% 020 dessert... doz 10 30 
doz. 0 0 O 0| PineApples.. -lb 83 0 5 0 
- 0 0 2 O} Plums...... 16 8:0 
- 2 0 2 6| Quinces ... Bh Oe ty 
g 0 0 O O| Raspberries. Dele OF 0. 
Grapes, Hothouse.... lb. 4 0 8 0| Strawberries . . 00 00 
Lemons............ #100 6 0 10 0} Walnnis.... 060 160 
Melons.............each 1 0 ¢£ 0 dO...ceccceeseee 100 10 2 O 
VEGETABLES. 
s.d. 8. a s.d. 8. d 
Artichokes. doz. 0 Oto0 0 0 4to0 0 
Asparagus . #100 70 10 0 10 20 
Beans, Kidn P1002 0 3830 10 26 
00 00 Deane 10 
et) (05 850. 30 590 
4th 04 00 
Ae Te bie 1) Vinw sees 8 80 60 
eal Ole bat 20. ips. «doz 09 10 
00 00 tenet quart 0 0 00 
0 4 O 8} Potatoes. bushel 2 0 40 
SO eG O Kidney............d0. 8 0 4 0 
16 2 0} Radishes..doz.bunches 0 6 10 
8 0 6 0} Rhubarb... -.-bundle 00 00 
16 8 Oj Savoys o-- doz. 1.6 & 0 
0 0 O 0} Sea-kale -basket 2 0 2 0 
2 0. O 0} Shallots caves DOm men) 6 
0 8 O 0} Spinach -bushel 2 0 2 6 
..--lb. 0 8 0 0} Tomatoes. . doz 3 0 O00 
Herbs.... - bunch 0 8 OQ O/} Turnips ..........bunch 09 6 O 0 
Horseradish ..., bundle 8 0 6 0! VegetableMarrows..doz. 0 0 0 0 


POULTRY MARKET.—Janvary 11. 
We are still but scantily supplied; neither buyers nor sellers seem to 
hare wakened since Christmas. There are but few fresh goods, and that 
which has been kept from last year is showing the change of weather. 


s. d. s. d gs. dog. d. 
Large Fowls S$ OtoS 6 } Pigeons - 0 9toOd 10 
Smaller ditto 2 0 2 6 Rabbit DAE rat 9 
3) x TS 9 RQ" 10 Wild di 6 9.0 10 
2) 10 uns: Hares BY Chie a0 
Te 410\ « “SiRK0 Partridg 2 Gene 
Pheasa 2 0 2 6 | Grouse . O° TOP 200 


January 19, 1971. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. AL 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
| ale 

Day | Day Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s | Clock | Day 

£ of ANUA —25, 1871. re near a ises. P iB Sets. ge, | before | of 

Reser irre JANUARY 19—25, 187 ture near London. {43 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets Age | Sun. | Year 
‘ Day. |Night. Mean.| Days. | m. h.|m. h,| m. h.|m. h.| Days. | m. 8. | 

19 TH Twilight ends 6.25 p.m. 43.1 | 80.6 | 86.9 20 57 af7 | Q4af4 | 43af 6 | 87af2 28 )10 56) 19 
20 F Z 42.4 | 30.6 | 36.5 15 BGS TelsaGt a Ase 4S 17 ds a8 29° | 11 915 20 
21 Ss 42.9 | 32.0 | 87.5 20 5567/28 4/83 8158 4 @ 1L, 32 21 
22 Sun | 3 Sunpay AFTER EPIPHANY. 43.1 | 323 | 87.7 18 547 | 89 4/ 8 9/14 6 1 11 49] 22 
23 M 42.6 | 32.4 | 87.5 18 53 7|82 44|34 9)|382 7 2 12 «4 23 
24 Tu 43.1 | 32.1 | 37.6 19 52 7/83 4/58 91/45. 8] 38 | 12 19 24 
25 Ww Day breaks 5.52 a.m. 43.4 | 82.3 | 37.9 21 OL 7 | 34 4/18 10 | by +9 4 | 12 34 25 

From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 42.9, and its night tempera- 
ture 318°. The greatest heat was 68°, on the 19th, 1828; and the lowest cold 4$° below zero, on the 19th, 1838. The greatest fall of rain was 
0.90 inch. 


WINTER-FLOWERING BEGONIAS. 


— LOWERS are at all seasons valuable—neyer 
more so than at midwinter, and of plants 


plants in the stove or as furnishing cut flowers 


\S) y gs for vases, epergnes, &c., for dinner-tables, for 
SIZE, the elevated parts of which it is desirable to | 
NN have suspended or drooping over the margin | 


flowers which have a similar disposition on 
the plant. IFuchsias, than which nothing can 


be more beautiful in summer, are of this description, and so | 
are the brilliant scarlet Begonia fuchsioides and the bright | 


pink B. erecta multiflora in winter. 

Begonias are of very easy culture, no roasting heat nor 
vapour-bath atmosphere is needed for their successful treat- 
ment. 
greenhouse, in other words an intermediate house, suits 
them. From March to September they will thrive in a 


vinery as well as anywhere; the moisture and increasing | 
temperature, with the free air-giving, induce a free but | 


sturdy growth, and the subsequent dryness needed for the 


ripening of the Grapes also secures the ripening of the | 


wood of the Begonias, and gives a wholesome check to 
the plants; for, when placed in the stove, they are again 
excited into growth by the moisture, and their tendency is 
to flower at once. 
shall commence with February. 

In February the plants which are more than a year old 
will be out of flower, or nearly so, though some are truly 
perpetual-flowering ; very unlike Perpetual Roses, which 
oftener bloom once than twice, to say nothing of being 
half the year dreary-looking objects. The old plants of 
Begonias will in February be past their best, and we shall 
keep them rather dry, but not so as to cause them to go 
quite off. From the base of the previous year’s growth 
will come some strong shoots, which should be kept grow- 
ing ; therefore give a little water, but not much, from the 
time the plants begin to cease flowering, and early in March 
they will be at their worst. Never mind this, but turn 
them out of the pots, and, removing all the old soil that 
can be done without destroying every particle of root, pot 
them in a size of pot—clean both inside and outside—that 
will hold them comfortably. Good drainage must be given 
them, and to keep it efficient cover it lightly with moss, 
or better, with the rough parts of the compost. The com- 
post may consist of the turf of a common where the soil is 
half loam half peat, and full of sand—a kind of soil in 
which Foxgloves and nearly all Ferns flourish, more so 
than in so-called peat, which is very often nothing but a 
soapy bog soil. If this cannot be had, then one part light 
turfy loam, the more turfy the better, chopped up small, 
one part sandy peat, and one part old dry cow dung, or 
failing that, leaf soil, with a sixth part, or half as much as 
the others, of silver sand, and the like of charcoal in pieces 
from the size of peas to that of walnuts; or boiled half- 
inch bones form a good substitute. Mix all together, and 
the whole will be a nice open compost, and with this pot 

No. 612.—Vou, KX., NEW SERIES, 


blooming at that time Begonias are in my | 
opinion amongst the most useful, whether as | 


A kind of house which is neither a stove nor a | 


I must now enter more into details, and | 


| the plants rather firmly, but not very tightly. Place them 
in the vinery if you have one started in February, and the 
sprinklings of water andthe moist atmosphere will be most 
| agreeable. Water carefully and sparingly until the plants 
begin to grow freely, and their doing so will be an indica- 
tion of their having taken to the fresh soil. The moisture 
needed for the Vines will be all they require, and as to 
water none will be wanted as long as the soil remains 
moist, but when it is becoming dry give a supply of water 
sufficient to show itself at the drainage. At the same 
time the plants must not be allowed to suffer from want of 
water. It is the watering regularly, and when the soil is 
moist enough for every requirement, that renders plants 
so sickly in the hands of amateurs as a rule, and of gar- 
deners also at times. 


growing freely. Shift them into pots a size larger, and 
use the same compost as before, with good drainage. Do 
not give a large shift, for the one-shift system is not suited 
to Begonias, nor, indeed, to more than 1 per cent. of all 
the plants in cultivation. If the plants do well they will 
have made good growth by the end of July, and will then 
need a drier atmosphere, but being in a vinery they will 
have that on account of the ripening of the Grapes; yet 
| if they are growing (and B. fuchsioides may be so, while 
B. Dregei may be flowering), remove them if you can toa 
| later vinery. Shift again into larger pots at the end of July 
or the beginning of August, and they will continue growing 
up to September. Then, or at whatever time the plants 
have made a good growth, and seem to have ceased growing, 
give them plenty of room, which they ought to have at all 
times, and supply no more water than enough to keep the 
foliage fresh. Subject them to a month of this ripening 
process, and then remove them to a stove where there is 
a temperature of 50° to 55° at night, and 60°to 65° by 
day—they will bloom from September to February. 

The only pruning the plants require is to cut out any 
worn-out shoots, but none that remain healthy. When, 
however, they become weak, and there are plenty of fresh 
and vigorous shoots from the base, remove them close to 
the surface of the soil. No training is needed, except it 
be putting in a neat stake the height of the plant, and 
tying the main shoots loosely to it, but it is only the 
straggling growths that need this. Stopping and other 
pruning Begonias will not endure, as by it we remove the 
blooming parts, and cause fresh shoots to push up from 
the root. : 

Failing a vinery, or if it be inconvenient to grow the plants 
there, they may remain in the stove through the summer, 
but from May to the middle of September they would do 
much better in a greenhouse than in a hot moist stove. 
Slight shade from bright sun in the hottest season of the 
year is necessary, whilst from August to April they cannot 
have too much light. 

Besides old or large plants I grow a number of smaller 
ones. Early in June I take cuttings of the strongest parts, 
such as are rather firm, or not very gross, and 3 or 4 inches 
long. Cutting transversely below a joint, and removing 
the leaves halfway up, I insert the cuttings singly in 3-inch 

No, 1164.—Vou. XLY., Orp Szries, 


By June the pots will be full of roots, and the plants _ . 


42 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ January 19, 1871. 


pots. I fill the pots with soil, make a hole in the centre, then 
drop in a little silver sand, and, introducing the cutting, place 
silver sand round it or fill the hole level. I next water gently, 
and place the cuttings in a hotbed, shading from bright sun 
until they are rooted, which they will be by July. Care must 
be taken not to overwater, or the cuttings will damp off, and 
yet if is necessary to keep them moist. When rooted remove 
them to a vinery or other house where they will have slight 
shade from powerful sun, and a moist atmosphere, in which 
they will grow freely if properly watered. 

When the pots become full of roots shift the plants into 
44-inch pots, which may ke needed by the beginning of August 
or earlier, and at the end of September remove them to the 
stove or intermediate house. It is well to keep the plants 
rather dry and in a position fully exposed to the light up to 
the middle of December, when they will be showing flower, and 
I then shift them into 6-inch pots, put a neat stick to such as 


require it, and water carefully for a time—I mean sparingly, | 


just keeping the soil moist, for if much water is given at 
this stage they fall back, and the flowers, and very often the 
leaves, drop; if this do not take place they flower about the 
middle of January, and go on to April, or longer. Being then 
rested until Jane by withholding water, and again started into 
growth, they make highly ornamental plants by October, and 
may either be allowed to bloom or be rested for a time in order 
to succeed the old plants. The latter and the cuttings will 
afford a good handful of flowers—some drooping, others erect, 
but all graceful, and of the brightest scarlet or pink—if not 
every day, very often from September to April, also for house- 
decoration plants that stand the dry atmosphere well, and if 
they are destroyed, as is not unfrequently the case with room 
plants, they are easily replaced. I would advise everyone to 
grow this class of plants in quantity. They are with me every- 
day plants, one or other being in bloom all the year round. 

The kinds I grow for winter-flowering are— 

B. fuchsioides.—F lowers scarlet, of graceful habit. The flowers 
hang down and are of the most lovely waxy coral red. The plant 
attains a height of 6 feet, and is feathered to the pot. It is the very 
best of all, being very ornamental in habit as well as flowers, 

B. erecta multiflora.—F lowers pink, erect habit, but as graceful as 
B. fuchsioides, and it grows quite as tall. It is very free-flowering, 
the flowers drooping, and some say fragrart. 

B. Ingrami.—F lowers deep rose, in large clusters, slightly drooping. 
Not so tall as the two preceding, erect habit and stiff. 

B. prestoniensis superba.—F lowers orange scarlet. Plant very free- 
flewering ; habit dwarf and compact. It is also a good summer- 
flowering kind. For winter it should not be started until June, as it 
is semi-herbaceous, no doubt owing to its parent, B. cinnabarina, 
though somewhat shrubby, owing probably to the blood of B. nitida. 

B. insignis.—F lowers pink. Very free-flowering and good. 

B. hybrida floribunda.—F lowers rose. Habit of B. fuchsioides, very 
elegant, and very free-blooming. 

B. Dregei.—F lowers white. Plant of erect dense habit, very free- 
blooming and continues long in flower. In begins flowering in July or 
August, and produces a succession of blossom until spring. The 
flowers are very pretty, though not so conspicuous as those of many 
sorts. 
succeed in a greenhouse or vinery, and is then semi-herbaceous. 

B. nitida.—F lowers blush, in large clusters. It is of straggling 
growth, and does well on a trellis, and trained to a stake in a pot. 


The above are all good, and though I have grown many 
others I consider them the best. Of course, I shall be glad to 
receive information respecting any others that your corre- 
spondents may grow. I also would not be without B. mani- 
eata, flowers pink. It produces such clusters of delicate wax- 
like spray as to be quite charming. It succeeds very wellina 
vinery, flowering with the return of spring, and with me in a 
stove in February. Also that very thick leathery-leaved sort, 
B. hydrocotylifolia, which has bright pink flowers borne neatly 
above the foliage. A pretty plant for rooms, and for rockwork 
too hot and dry for Ferns. It flowers in January or February. 
—G, ABpry. 


FLOWER GARDEN ARRANGEMENTS. 


Nrver was there a time when so much attention was devoted 
to the cultivation of taste and skill in the arrangement of 
colours. The modern style of flower gardening has, so to 
speak, forced this upon the gardening portion of the community. 
The bygone-system of mixed beds and borders made no great 
demand upon one’s skill in this respec‘, but since the fashion 
of massing large breadths of strong colours has prevailed, more 
attention has perforce been given to the effect which the various 
colours have upon each other. Ovcasionally flower gardens 


It forms a dense bush from 2 to 4 or 5 feet high. It will, 


| may be seen in which the arrangement of the colours is so 
good as to leave nothing to be wished for, but this is the 
| exception rather than the rule. Glare and glitter are still in 
| force, and that too in many public gardens, the arrangements 
of which are studied and followed in hundreds of private 
places, because it is supposed that the flowers in notable public 
gardens are certain to be arranged by persons possessing great 
| artistic skill and refined taste; but, unfortunately, this is very 
far from being generally the case. In most instances no 
exception can be taken to the colouring in regard to its being 
correct, yet there is such a constant succession of primary 
colours that a gorgeous dazzling effect approaching vulgarity 
is the result. It is the want of refinement of which I com- 
plain—that quiet grace which tones down and affects an entire 
design in such a manner as to impart an indiscribable charm 
to it. 

Scarlet, yellow, and blue are the dominant colours, and 
wonderfully striking effects may be wrought out with them; 
but it is to the various shades of pink, crimson, purple, and 
grey that the true artist turns for materials, which, when skil- 
fully interwoven with those other bright colours, impart the 
highest possible finish to any design, be it large or small. How 
very rarely it is that justice is done to the beautiful colours of 
the fine-foliaged Pelargoniums; even our old favourite Mrs. 
Pollock is oftener seen with the flower trusses left on than not, 
and thus the work of the cross-breeder, whose aim was evidently 
to produce beautiful foliage, is altogether forgotten or ignored. 
The Golden Tricolors and many of the white-variegated Pelar- 
goniums form most effective masses or ribbon lines with their 
foliage alone, serving admirably to divide other kinds whose 
chief beauty is in their flowers; so that those persons who 
disregard this most valuable property, and suffer all kinds and 
classes to flower indiscriminately, can hardly be aware of what 
they lose by overlooking the rich and varied beauty of the leaf 
tints, the introduction of which can in nowise affect the utility 
of those kinds grown for the beauty of their flowers. 

To illustrate my meaning I will take a very common and very 
beautiful ribbon border of four rows—the first of Cerastium, 
pearly grey; the second of Lobelia Trentham Blue, deep blue; 
the third of Pelargonium Crystal Palace Gem, rich yellow; 
and the fourth Coleus Verschaffelti, deep rich crimson. Here 
are three out of the four kinds of plants used imparting the 
colour required by their foliage alone; therefore if Crystal 
Palace Gem is suffered to blcom, its flowers would quite spoil 
the effect. Or, supposing we want an arrangement which shall 
be so quiet in tone as to neutralise, or rather subdue, the effect 
of bold masses of colour on each side of it, we will take that 
beautiful silver-variegated Pelargonium Miss Kingsbury for our 
centre, surrounding it with a broad band of Purple King Ver- 
bena, and with an equally broad band or border of Manglesii 
Pelargonium ; the flowers being kept picked off both Manglesii 
and Miss Kingsbury, such a bed in such a position is most tell- 
ing. Then, again, how charmingis the effect of a compact mass 
of the silver-variegated foliage of Perfection when seen in all its 
purity next such a deep pink kind as Maid of Kent! but if, 
when go placed, Perfection is suffered to produce its bold scarlet 
flowers, an air of vulgarity prevails, and the chaste and refined 
beauty of its foliage is altogether lost. 

Our object, then, in arranging the colours in a group of beds 
should be to produce an effect of purity and brightness, devoid 
of gaudiness on the one hand or insipidity on the other; for 
it should not be forgotten that it is an easy matter to use too 
much of such plants as Centaurea, or even of Cerastium, as 
well as of those possessing brighter colours.—Epwarp Luck- 
HURST, Old Lands, Buxted, Sussex. 


FITZROYA PATAGONICA. 


Srrrmnc that Mr. Record has failed after four years’ trial, 
both in light and heavy soils, in procuring anything like a 
specimen of this Conifer, I will state a few particulars as to 
the tree now growing here. It has attained the height of 
9 feet 6 inches, and is 4 feet 4 inches through. These dimen- 
sions show that the style of growth is entirely different from 
that of Mr. Record’s plant. Where the tree is growing the 
soil is light and rubbly. No special care was taken in planting 
the tree, further than taking off the turf and making the hole 
large enough to contain the roots, which were spread out care- 
fully, so that they might be equally extended on all sides ; then 
the soil was filled in and trodden down carefully and firmly, so 
that the wind would have little chance of loosening it at the 
| neck, an occurrence which is most injurious to any tree. 


January 19, 1871. ] 


The tree has been planted several years. In 1869 it grew 
9 inches in height, last year it made 10 inches, and 10 inches 
of young wood, pendulous; but the pendulous growth of the 
previous year has risen quite erect, and so has every growth 
that has been made of the year previous. The leaders, of 
which there are several, and the side branches, keep pace in 
their growth. I think it a valuable addition to the pinetum, 
and have not the slightest doubt that it will rise to the height 
of 70 or 80 feet.—Jaues SuitH, Fynone, South Wales. 


RECENTLY-INTRODUCED GRAPES. 


Havine grown and fruited most of the new Grapes which 
have been introduced within the last three or four years, it may 
be useful to some of your readers if I state my experience with 
them. There can be no doubt that differences of climate, soil, 
and treatment, have a great influence on the Vine as well as 
on other fruits, so that the results of my treatment here may be 
different from that of others, and different from what I should 
have arrived at under other circumstances. The merits and 
demerits of new fruits are much commented upon in the horti- 
cultural press, and sometimes they are subjected to undeserved 
abuse. It is scarcely possible for a gardener to write with con- 
fidence about a new Grape the first year of its fruiting with 
him, although in certain cases a pretty correct estimate may be 
formed ; but it is best to have two or three years’ experience 
before [speaking confidently. Thereis more difficulty in intro- 
ducing new fruits to the public than there is in the cese of new 
flowers, and it is well for gardeners that itis so. Take, for in- 
stance, a new Grape; if a vinery is to be planted, and the 
Grape in question is said to be better than any of the older 
varieties in the same class, the gardener is anxious to give it a 
trial, and it is very annoying, after considerable attention has 
been bestowed on the plant, and valuable space appropriated 
to it, to find that itis much inferior to older sorts that would 
not have cost a fourth of the money. There is not a tithe of 
the disappointment felt over a new flower if it is not found 
worthy ; a flower can in most cases be proved a few months 
after purchase, and if it is not quite up to the high character 
received with it, there is little harm done, and it is not worth 
while to get out of temper about it; but when you have been 
wasting your time over, and devoting space to » Vine or fruit 
tree which after two or three years produces fruit neither fit to 
place upon your employer’s table nor to give to your friends, 
truly there is some excuse if you are tempted to use a few 
hasty expressions. Of course, it equally behoves those to be 
cautious who have the assurance to laud a new variety of fruit 
to the skies before they have seen it growing and had sufficient 
opportunity to test its merits. Most of the recently-introduced 
Grapes, if they do not quite sustain the high character given 
with them, are worthy of cultivation for some peculiarity of 
flavour or constitution. 

Irs. Pince’s Muscat is a good-keeping sort, superior to Lady 
Downe’s in flavour, but not in appearance. The berries set 
quite as freely as with Lady Downe’s, both growing in the 
same house. The bunches are long, tapering, but the berries 
do not colour well. It is grafted on Lady Downe’s, and the 
difference in colour is easily perceived. It has done best here 
on its own roots. 

Muscat Champion is the best flavoured of all the new Grapes ; 
none of the other so-called Black Muscats have the flavour so 
fully developed a; this. It is a shy bearer, requires heat, and 
colours badly. It does best grafted on the Black Hamburgh. 

Royal Ascot has proved to be an excellent sort, and has im- 
proved ia apyesrance and quality; as a black Grape, both for 
early and late houses, it is well worthy of cultivation. The 
bunches are large, sometimes shouldered ; berries large, black, 
and covered with a dense bloom; the flesh is firm and richly- 
flavoured. I have it grafted on the Black Hamburgh, but the 
White Frontignan is the best stock forit. I was much sur- 
prised last season at the effect of this stock on the Black Ham- 
burgh. A grower in this neighbourhood, who sends his fruit to 
Covent Garden, had some White Frontignans planted in the 
same house with the Black Hamburghs; as the fruit could not 
be disposed of to the best advantage, the Frontignans were 
grafted with Hamburghs, and the Grapes from the grafted 
Vines were superior in every respect, the berries being larger 
and more highly finished; the plants had also the same pecu- 
liarity as the stock—yiz., that of being the first to be attacked 
by ved spider. 

Of white Grapes the recent introductions are not numerous. 

Golden Champion is a very distinct sort, both as regards 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 43 


flavour and appearance; it has succeeded best grafted on the 
Black Hamburgh. The berries are large, with a peculiar and 
rich flavour. I think it tender, and not likely to put up with 
the treatment to which the Black Hamburgh is often subjected; 
it has, however, been exhibited in such magnificent style that 
those who have not been successful should try again. I fruited 
it for the first time last year. 

Madresfield Court Black I have not grown, but having 
seen and tasted it in the hands of others, it seems to be avery 
desirable variety. The flesh is not so firm as that of Mrs. 
Pince, and it is said not to keep well after Christmas. The 
bunches are large, and the berries large and quite black. It is 
again very highly recommended by Dr. Hogg in the ‘ Gar- 
deners’ Year Book”’ for 1871.—J. Dotetas. 


TEA ROSE CULTURE. 

THE answer to your correspondent at pag: 43S had deter- 
mined me to continue the subject of my special favourite, the 
Tea Rose, but the many calls on the clergy at this season of 
the year prevented me from doing so before, and now Mr. Kent 
has forestalled me in some of my remarks. 

I am but a beginner, so offer you my notes in all humility, 
and I shall be most grateful to anyone who will set me right if 
Terr. 

I have about sixty varieties of Tea and Noisette Roses, and 
if I were asked to name my favourites they would be as 
follows :—Maréchal Niel, Céline Forestier, Sonvenir d’un Ami, 
Rubens, Madame Falcot, Madame Margottin, Comte de Paris, 
Archiméde, Niphetos, Madame Willermoz, Madame Bravy, Mar- 
quise de Foucault, Monsieur Piton, Madame Charles, Souvenir 
d’Elise, President, Sombreuil, and last, though not least, Gloire 
de Dijon. These have done all I could wish; they stood the 
past winter in the open ground, and bloomed profusely all the 
summer, : 

I describe my treatment below. La Bonle d’Or will not do 
here without the protection of glass, it will never open; the 
same is my experience of Marie Sisley; under glass both are 
fine. Now, I would ask your readers to tell me about Mon- 
plaisir; I have been much disappointed with it. On hearing 
its character I bought four as fine plants as one could wish to 
see; I treated them to some of the best places I could find— 
against a sheltered wall, in an open border, and planted out 
against a conservatory wall. I did not obtain during the season 
one flower worth looking at. It was shy to bloom, and when a 
bloom came it was as ragged, ill-shaped a production as you 
could well find. Archiméde is a great favourite of mine; it is 
always in bloom, and if thinned out, so as to leave one bud on 
a shoot, expands like a beautiful white Camellia. 

I find that the strong growers of this class do best on a very 
sh rt Briar. Maréchal Niel I] a7e against a wa'l, under glass, 
and as a standard; it is never bad anywhere, and with the 
tying up, described below, is as good in the open as under glass, 
perhaps even better, as I find the blooms larger. Iam very 
favourably inclined towards Unique; it is a good grower, and 
its peculiar flower is very pleasing. Many of the newer Roses, 
including Belle Lyonnaise and Madame Levet, which, for the 
information of Mr. Kent, is one of the new seedlings from 
Gloire de Dijon, I have not yet bloomed, though I have plants 
of them. 

In my judgment many make the mistake of planting Tea 
Roses in situations where they get the full heat of the sun all 
day, which causes the flowers to expand so rapidly that they 
lose both shape and colour. My Tea border is under a wall 
facing due east, but protected from the north. The soil, being 
stiff clay, was deeply trenched, some of the subsoil burnt, and 
a good supply of manure and old leayes worked in. The 
plants are in rows, with occasional trenches between, which 
trenches in summer are filled with good, rich stable manure, 
well trodden by pigs, and from time to time water is pnmped 
in by means of a hose. I am constantly among them with the 
aphis brush dipped in a concoction of 1 1b. quassia steeped in 
two gallons of boiling water, and half a pound of soft soap. 
I pinch out all superfluous buds. When I want Roses of extra 
size I tie a piece of tracing or tissue paper, dipped in oil and 
then dried, round the stem of the bud, leaving the paper to 
project about 11 inch beyond it; this draws out the bud, and 
causes it to elongate and to swell gradually. The paper must 
be increased in size according to the growth of the bud. The 
oil throws off the wet, which would otherwise cause the paper 
to adhere to the bloom; it also causes ants to keep their dis- 
tance. I had many a fine bud destroyed by these pests last 


44 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 19, 1871. 


season ; they eat their way into the very heart of the expand- 
ing bloom. Madame Falcot when treated in this way was as 
fine as Maréchal Niel. : 

All my Roses are now snug beneath a covering of about 
3 inches of cocoa-nut refuse and long stable manure; they are 
so near tho river that I dread frosts; last year I lost but three 
out of four hundred. Next year I mean to be daring enough 
to try my luck on the exhibition table.-—Szrirr Soin, 


BEDDING CALCHOLARIAS IN 1870. 


I po not think that the cause of Calceolarias dying-off so 
extensively as they have done for the last few years has ever 
been disccvered, although numerous opinions have been ex- 
pressed upon the subject, nearly every gardener having a dif- 
ferent one. Some oi the theories advanced appear reasonable, 
and those who had the energy and opportunity have set them- 
selves to prove their truth, and I believe with good results. 
Although the past summer has been an exceptionally dry one, 
quite unfavourable to the Calceolaria, especially with so much 
sunny weather, I think in many places this favourite bedding 
plant has never grown better; and in many other places, as 
far as I have seen, there has been less loss from disease, as it 
is called, than formerly. This, I conclude, is because the grower 
pays mcre attention to the cultivation of the plant, especially 
from the time of propagation till it is placed in the flower 
garden, and even in the latter department gard: ners find it ad- 
vantageous, when it can be done, to make special provision for 
their Calceolarias. 

Some of the growers of the Calceolaria who were most suc- 
cessful during the past summer, tell me that they propagate as 
late as the middle of November, if the weather will allow, and 
make their cuttings as short as possible, most of them without 
a heel to them, the object being to delay the rooting until the 
New Year. They usea finely-sifted heavy rather than light soil, 
and when tho cuttings are well rooted the centre shoot of each 
is nipped out; this checks their rapid growth into bulky plants 
until the days lengthen, and they can have more light and air 
to encourage a healthy growth. The young plants are kept as 
cool as possible both night and day, and in a short time every 
shoot each plant makes is again pinched. 

While the plants are breaking into growth again, a suitable 
place is being prepared for them either in cold pits or frames, 
or in trenches in the open ground; if the latter, the trenches 
are made 4 feet wide, and a good spit of earth thrown out on 
each side makes them about 18 inches deep. The bottom is 
covered with any rough siftings of soil, and the remainder is 
made up of similar soil to that in which the plants are to bo 
grown in the flower garden. I might remark that if protection 
can be found the trenches are to be preferred on account of the 
want of every foot of space under glass at that time of the year, 
and the trenches afford the plants a similar position to that 
which they are to occupy in the flower garden. 

The transierence of the plants from the cutting-frame to the 
trenches is effected in the most careful manner. 
to facilitate this the cuttings at propagating time are placed as 
far apart as circumstances will allow, in order that the plants 
may be taken out without root-breakage, and the same care is 
taken when planting in the trenches. There is another ad- 
vantage in using trenches—namely, a convenient space can be 
allowed to the plants. At all times they are exposed to the sun 
and air when the weather is not frosty. Iam told that to plant 
out early is a great point in their favour, for if left until ordinary 
bedding stock goes out, which, perhaps, is as late as June, the 
Calceolaria is to a great extent exhausted, and the roots become 
so entangled, and the process of moving at that time so difficult 
and dangerous, that the plants scarcely recover until the sum- 
mer isnearly gone. I think this is a reasonable excuse for early 
planting ; and again, we all know that if the plants are too large 
the shock of moving causes the wood to ripen-off, and then 
there is a great chance of the first flowering carrying them off 
entirely, and those which do not die fail to produce blooming 
wood until too late. 

In the flower garden the wants of the Calceolaria must not 
be neglected, and as the plants like a cool moist bottom, it has 
been found beneficial to place a moisture-retaining soil under 
them at about 1 foot deep, and quite 6 inches thick. If the soil 
above is light, make it heavier by suitable additions. A rather 
close soil I have always found to be more suitable, provided 
it is not too poor, but it should be made good to a considerable 
depth, as Calccolarias, like most bedding plants, root very 
deeply into the ground. I think trenching should be carried 


With a view. 


cn as systematically in the flower garden as it is in the kitchen 
garden, because it would afford the plants a beneficial change 
of soil. Where the soil has been worked for a number of years 
for the same purpose, it would be better to take it out to a 
good depth and add fresh soil made up with a large proportion 
of good peaty loam. ‘This experiment has answered perfectly 
well during the past summer with the Calceolaria; therefore 
it is to be recommended for other bedding plants, excepting 
those which would be liable to grow too coarse at the expense 
of bloom. 

Watering and mulching during a long period of hot and dry 
weather are such essential points in the culture of the Calceo- 
laria, that they ought to claim special attention, for then it’ is, 
and when there is an absence of dewy nights, that this plant 
appears to suffer most. The difficulty lies in keeping the plants 
growing and the wood from ripening-ofi under the burning sun, 
so as to insure a continuous blooming time ; but during the past 
summer much of this difficulty has been overcome by attend- 
ing to the above details. Although in what I have stated there 
is nothing new or more than what an anxious cultivator would 
think of, I am not afraid that this plan will be less success- 
ful with those who practise it than the rough-end-ready treat- 
ment which very many growers pursue with this the most 
useful, and one of the oldest and most popular bedding plants 
we have. After a dry summer, or if the month of September 
should be showery, it is surprising how suddenly the Calceo- 
laria commences a healthy and luxuriant growth, which would, 
if the season could be prolonged, produce one of the most 
brilliant masses of bloom ever witnessed, and such as no arti- 
ficial treatment could, perhaps, ensure. Still I think this dis- 
position of the plant is a good guide to the cultivator as to the 
wants of the Calceolaris, and should be imitated as much as 
possible, for of all the hardier sorts of bedding plants it re- 
quires the most careful treatment.—T. Reconp. 


RABBITS AND TREES. 


Havine from time to time seen communications on this sub- 
ject in Tur Journat or HorticunTvns, especially from persons 
anxious to get up patches of evergreens in game coverts, I send 
you a few remarks, the result of several years’ experience in 
planting. 

If it is practicable entirely to exclude rabbits and hares from 
the parts planted, I would advise that the wire netting used 
be not less than 3 feet wide, and not of larger mesh than 
1zinch. It should be fixed to upright stakes, and be well pegged 
down. Three inches at the bottom should be turned outwards, 
and laid flat on the ground, which should be levelled, and made 
up over the bottom of the wire along the whole length. The 
rabbits, hurting their claws without result in the buried hori- 
zontal portion of the wire, soon give up scratching at it; but 
some one should occasionally go round and make up the 
ground to the wire where required. 

I wish, however, to speak more particularly of planting 
single trees or shrubs in bare parts of coverts or plantations. 
It is provoking to have these devoured year after year, and I 
think it better to plant fifty with efficient protection, than five 
hundred to be barked and mutilated, to take their chance of 
surviving in a deformed and stunted condition. It is known 
that trees when first planted are especially liable to be attacked 
by rabbits. We observe loppings-of trees in coverts entirely 
cleared of bark, whilst branches and twigs of the same size 
growing within reach are untouched. In the same way recently- 
planted trees are sure to be selected amongst others of the same 
kind and size. I have found the recommended preparations of 
night soil, gas tar, train oil, quicklime, &e., both bad for the 
tree and inefficient, unless renewed every month. I have used 
cradles made of common wire netting 2 feet wide, 2-inch mesh. 
This I cut or rather break across into lengths of about 2 feet. 
These I place round the young trees with the rough ends of 
the wire at the bottom and the top, and bring the level sides 
together, fastening them with soft wire previously cut into 
lengths of 3 or 4 inches. About 2 inches at the bottom and 
top of the cradle should be turned outwards, which gives ad- 
ditional protection. Each cradle should be pegged down with 
two pegs. The diameter of these cradles will be about 8 inches, 
the height about 18 inches, and the cost about 3d. This may 
seem a large cost to protect a tree worth only a penny, but 
much yexation is saved, and they require no renewal. The 
labour of fixing is inconsiderable. I can fix from twenty to 
thirty in an hour with ease. Such trees as Larch and Spruce, 
if 3 feet high, which I find the best size for planting from my 


January 19, 1871. ] 


own nursery, into which I introduce them at 1 foot, will, of 
course, have their lower branches compressed by such cradles ; 
but I do not find that this interferes with their growth. The 
same may be said of Hollies, and other evergreens. If larger 
cradles are desired, the netting may be obtained of any width, 
and the width must bo three times the diameter required for 
the cradle. Rabbits are more likely to jump inside the larger 
cradles, which should, therefore, be higher. Much additional 
protection is obtained by putting pieces of Gorse or Thorns 
inside the cradle, and reaching over the top of it. I tried this 
year tying Gorse twigs with the bushy end resting on the 
ground about 2 feet up the tree. This appeared to answer until 
the late snow, when the rabbits ate first the Gorse, and then 
the tree. Thorns cut up into short pieces are a much better 
protection. A few handfuls of these placed round the tree to a 
width of a foot and a height of 18 inches, seem as good as the 
wire cradles, and cost less. 

I warn your readers uot to be misled by lists of trees and 
shrubs which it is said that rabbits will not eat. I have tried 
nearly all, and the only evergreens I find untouched are Yew, 
Box, and Rhododendron. My plantations are mostly narrow, 
bounded by grass or arable fields, and I keep no more rabbits 
than Iam obliged to do in justice to the foxes, that these im- 
portant animals may earn an honest livelihood, and not he 
driven to rob the farmyards. 

Larch is the worst of all trees to get up amongst rabbits. 
They bark it even in summer, and eat it quite down. Spruce, 
Silver Fir, and Scotch Fir, are all eaten down in severe weather, 
especially when rabbits can reach to the top of them, though 
their bark seems less attractive. Do not, however, confuse the 
work of rabbits or hares with that of squirrels, which bite off 
the leaders of young Spruce, apparently to exercise their teeth, 
as they leave the tops on the ground. Squirrels must be killed 
if Spruce are to be reared. Oak, Spanish Chestnut, and nearly 
all forest trees are liable when first planted to be barked by 
rabbits, and should he protected as directed above. Of Holly, 
Privet, and common Laurel, rabbits and hares eat both bark 
and leaves. Broom hares bite quite down, even when of large 
size, and eat the young twigs. Berberis Aquifolium and Portugal 
Laurel are amongst the last shrubs touched, but in the present 
severe weather the rabbits are attacking young plants of both, 
biting the leaves off the former, though they do not seem to eat 
them, and barking the latter, though to no great extent. I have 
not spoken of choicer Conifers, but I find that Abies Douglasii, 
Cupressus Lawsoniana, Wellingtovia, and probably most of 
the others suffer move or less, 

I may conclude by saying, that where cover for game is the 
chief object, nothing answers so well as the common Bramblo 
or Blackberry, and the varieties of Briar or Dog Rose, including 
Sweetbriar. These take readily to any soil, require no nursing, 
grow very fast, and as shelter are far preferred by pheasants to 
the smooth-leaved Berberis, and to Rhododendrons.—C. W. D. 


ANONYMOUS CRITICISM. 


I AVE read the article, ‘‘ New Year’s Hopes,” by ‘‘ WiLTsHIRE 
Recror,” in No. 510 of Tar Journan or Horricunrure for 
this year, an article beaming with truth and kindliness. But 
I fear the medal hag its reverse, and we should not, I think, 
refuse to look on the other side if by so doing we can effect 
further good. 

After reading that article I was led to reflect on horticultural 
literature in general, and on the anonymous part of it in par- 
ticular. For my present purpose I will divide our writers on 
horticulture into two classes. First, those who sign their 
names and addresses to their writings, and secondly, those who 
write anonymously. It is to the latter anonymous writers 
that I would now specially address myself. 

Ido not condemn anonymous writing altogether. What we 
call ‘‘leadcrs”” may very properly be published anonymously, 
because in that case there is » clear and acknowledged editorial 
responsibility. Many good things have also been written 
anonymously, which, probably, never would have been written 
-if the writer had been compelled to complete them by attach- 
ing his or her siguature. ButI think if a writer says any- 
thing that is derogatory to the productions of another, he is 
bound in honour to attach his name to his opinion. I vill 
state a case which I think those who regularly peruse our hor- 
ticultural periodicals will admit not to be an imaginary one. 

A cultivator, after years of thought and labour, succeeds in 
yaising something different from what has gone before. It is 
exhibited, and obtains a mark of honour, and he sees, or fancies 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


45 


he sees, a pecuniary as well as an honorary reward looming in 
the distance, when lo! some anonymous critic starts up, and 
by faint praise or subtle insinuations produces a state of 
scepticism in the public mind, which causes his novelty to fall 
flat in the market. The motives for this line of action are 
doubtless various. I need hardly pause to speak of those who 
from prejudice reject a good new thing, because they are 
punished severely enough by finding their neighbours’ gardens 
or tables rejoicing in the possession of gems or viands which 
their warped judgment hag rejected. The anonymous critic 
may be some brainless man, who cannot distinguish between 
a good thing and a bad one. He may be brainless, and envious 
in addition ; himself incapable of producing anything superior, 
he endeavours from sheer envy to lessen the value of what 
others move skilful or persevering than himself produce. Or 
he may be a rival in trade—one of the sharks of society, who 
knows full well that if hoe can only induce the public to wait 
until he has purchased and raised a large stock of the novelty, 
he will reap a larger share of the profits. 

I was told by a nurseryman of respectability and position 
not many months ago that the loudest declaimer against a new 
plant of his—a plant of rare merit—was the largest purchaser 
of it! And after this declaimer had purchased and raised a 
large stock of it, knowing that its merits must in time become 
known and cause a large demand, coolly changed his opinion, 
recommended it, and pocketed considerable profits. Now this 
was an injustice to the public, because everyone is anxious to 
possess a good thing ag soon as possible; and it is a still 
greater injustice to the raiser or introducer, for it deprives 
him of the fair reward of his knowledge, skill, and labour. It 
is worse than the infringement of a patent—it is cowardly as 
well as dishonest, because here the patentee, so to speak, hag 
no redress at law. 

I think I have said enough to show that this is a blemish in 
our horticultural literature which calls loudly for a remedy.- 
Tadmit that many indifferent, nay, worthless, things are con- 
tinually palmed on the public by dint of puffing; but even 
heze, as the puffer usually attaches his name, it would be more 
manly to question their merit by an open than by an anony- 
mous attack 

Let me then, in conclusion, deferentially and kindly, but 
earnestly, entreat my brother writers in horticulture not to 
abstain from expressing any adverse opinion they may hold 
on any new thing, but to place their names manfully in sup- 
port of their opinions, that the public may know what weight 
to attach to them, and that those opinions may bo fairly and 
honestly canvassed.—Witutam Pav, Waltham Cross, N. 


CHRYSANTHEMUM CULTURE, 


Lassure Mr. Castle that I have no wish to disparage hig 
mode of growing the Chrysanthemum, my object in writing 
being to elicit a few practical truths. I do not believe a Chry- 
santhemum grown from a cutting will in one season ever pro- 
duce too much wood to form a specimen, and it is a well-known 
fact that some varieties will not produce enough under the 
most favourable circumstances. A point in favour of the use 
of liquid manure is the production of good foliage, which I con- 
sider contributes much to the beauty of the plant; and if 
vigorous wood and foliage be grown, large flowers will be the 
result. I cannot conceive why the plants should require ad- 
ditional nourishment after the flower buds are formed, as I 
think there must be a greater demand on the resources of the 
plant during the formation of the buds than in the development 
of the flowers; byt I am not surprised that Mr. Castle’s plants 
require additional stimulus by that time, for I am convinced 
that plants not plunged will require watering once, and in hot 
weather twice a-day, and I am of opinion that such frequent 
waterings with clear water for several successive months must 
greatly impoverish the soil. I must confess to never having 
seen & Chrysanthemum die through being overwatered ; and 
were such a case to come under my observation I should at 
once assume the cause to be insufficient drainage, and not the 
too frequent use of the watering pot. 

In plunging I make a practice of placing a piece of brick or 
an inverted flower pot under each plant for the purpose of 
drainage, and to prevent the roots from protruding through the 
bottoms of the pots. I still maintain that it is absolutely 
necessary to plunge pots in the open air to protect the roots 
from the vicissitudes of heat and cold. As regards the extra 
skill required in watering, I should hope there are very few 
men employed in gardens who have not intellect enough to 


46 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 19, 1871. 


know whether a Chrysanthemum requires water or not. In a 
former paper Mr. Castle recommends August as the time for 
giving the plants their final shift, but he now recommends the 
first or second week in July for Pompons and early-flowering 
kinds, which is more in accordance with my own views. 

As Mr. Castle hopes his writings will be received in good 
faith, I beg to assure him that they will be received in such by 
me; but as he differs from so many practical gardeners on 
various subjects, I think readers should be cautious not to arrive 
too hastily at conclusions.—H. Benaam, Upper Holloway. 


PLANTS IN FLOWER DURING DECEMBER. 


Dee. 1. Veronica speciosa Dec. 9. Scabiosa atropurpurea 
Andersoni Vittadenia trilobata 
galicifolia Mir s Jalapa 
candida Delphinium Belladonna 
dentata Andromeda floribunda 
incana Crocus Aucherii 
sibirica oryi 

Cheiranthus fruticulosa Pentstemon glabrum 
Helleborus atrorubens Scouleri 
foetidus procerum 
_ niger » 14. Antholyza coccinea 
Liatris spicata Erigeron Villarsii 
Lupinus albus Monarda purpurea 
Chelone barbata Thymus vulgaris 
Koniga maritima Achillea tomentosa 
Hypericum calycinum macrophylla 
Linaria Cymbalaria compacta 
_ alpina aurea 
Linum grandiflorum Tricyrtis hirta 
perenne Statice bellidifolia 
alpinum incana alba 
flavum Aconitum autumnale 
Malva Morenii versicolor 
Vinca minor Omphalode3 verna 
purpurea Stenactis speciosa 
Centaurea Cyanus Phlox setacea 
depressa verna 
Euphorbia amygdaloides Ruta graveolens 
Ajuga reptans alba Santolina incana 
Campanula garganica Polemonium ceruleum 
muralis Aubrietia Mooreana 
pumila Salv.a fulgens 
» 9 Gaillardia picta Primula acaulis 
grandiflora Colchicum autumnale fl. pl. 
Richardi » 17: Plumbago capensis 
Alchemilla alpina Scutellaria galericulata 
Eryngium alpinum Centranthus ruber 
Cedronella cana Asperula odorata 
Gynerium argenteum Potentilla alba 
Nierembergia gracilis Sedum album 
Tritema Uvaria dentatum 
Verbena venosa purpureum 
Jasminum nudiflorum Cineraria maritima 
Alyssum saxatile Antirrhinum Tom Thumb 
Geum rivale Silene pendula 
Qinothera macrocarpa Bupthalmum salicifolium 
acaulis Polygonum Sieboldi 
Lamarckiana Brunoni 
biennis » 20. Sedum ceruleum 
_ Drummondi Stachys lanata 
Mimulus maculosus Armeria vulgaris 
Viburnum Tinus Polygonum orientale 
Arabis lucida Delphinium Ajacis 
Zauschneria californica Nigella hispanica 


—M. H,, Acklam Hall, Widdlesbrough-on-Tees. 


GLAZED WALL. 


Just as I was about to accept an offer made me of twenty 
ground yineries at a certain price, a week or two back I ob- 
served your recommendation, for Vine-growing, of glass being 
put against a wall in the shape of a lean-to house, which article 
suggested to me that we should build a house 120 feet long and 
12 wide against a certain wall covered with nice young Peach 
trees, &c., allowing them to remain there, and growing Vines as 
well up the 14-feet roof. We also wished to make this the 
home of bedding stuff during the winter. What size of saddle 
boiler should I require to heat such a place, supposing that 
40 feet were heated by a chimney laid down as a flue, and the 
rest of the length by 4-inch hot-water pipes? Could we not 
have the house all in one, or would it be a disadvantage? Which 
is the best white Grape for a cold yinery ?>—SupscriBEr. 

[We approve of your covering your Peach wall with a lean-to 
glass roof. The modes of doing so we have frequently alluded 
to. To do justice to the Peaches, the Vines up the rafters or 
roof should be fully 6 feet apart. These spurred will allow a 
very fair amount of light to reach the back wall. Royal Mus- 
cadine and Buckland Sweetwater will answer well in such a 
house, and so will Calabrian Raisin as a late Grape; but as you 
intend the house for wintering large quantities of bedding 
plants, it would be as well not to encourage-late Grapes, but 
such kinds as you would cut by the middle or end of October. 
In such a length of house we would prefer a division of glass 
in the centre. We approye of taking a flue along one end of 
the house from the boiler, and that flue will keep out frost for 
the 40 feet proposed. Two 4-inch pipes to the other end from 


the boiler would also keep out frost. If more were wanted, more 
piping would be necessary. Were we heating such a house we 
should be inclined to make the one end from 50 to 60 feet long, 
put the furnace and boiler at that poin', take the flue to one end 
and pipes there too, and pipes to the other end; thus you could 
have the one end of a 120-feet house much earlier than the 
other. We would use a saddle boiler 24 inches long, 22 wide, 
and 20 inches high, or about that size, which would enable you 
to have more piping if desirable. ] 


RED LEAD PROTECTING BULBS FROM MICE. 


Ty answer to the inquiry of the ‘‘ Rey. C. P. H.” in vol. xix. 
page 477, respecting keeping mice from bulbs, I am enabled to 
state that I dust all my bulbs with red lead, and that not one 
of them has been touched by mice. Last year I did not dust 
the bulbs, and the result was that they were nearly all carried 
away by rats or eaten by mice. 

I dust all my seed Peas and Beans in the same way, and not 
one of them is touched ; but if by chance I sow one line with- 
out red lead they are usually nearly all devoured by mice. 

I may add that I do not find the red lead injure the Pea crop 
nor the bulbs. I have known the mice bore after the Peas and 
Beans, and, finding them red-leaded, leave them untouched. 

W. 


MAKING BORDERS FOR WALL TREES ON 
BAD SUBSOILS. 


Ow an entire renovation of the garden being made here, and 
when starting to take out the foundation for the wall, we had to 
go to the depth of 6 feet before a solid foundation could be got. 
After 20 inches of soil on the top, all the rest was loose red 
sand. I decided to concrete both sides of the wall to the width 
of 14 feet. When the wall was finished, the little good soil on 
the top was removed to the garden quarters, the sand wheeled 
right away to the depth of 30 inches at the wall below the 
ground-level, and 33 inches at the out edge, so that there is 
plenty of fall for water to run off; and along the front a drain 
was cut, S inches deep, and the width of a spade. Being all 
ready for the concrete, there was brought nice-sized gravel, 


‘ laid in quantities of about four tons, and one ton of coal ashes, 


to which was added one ton of lime fresh from the kiln, which 
had as much water thrown on it as make it fall; thenit and 
the gravel were mixed together, covering all over with the ashes. 
After letting it lie in this state for twelve hours, it was well 
mixed by turning it over several times, adding more water if 
required, but keeping it rather adhesive than otherwise (as it 
sets quicker when not too free), and laying it on at once to the 
depth of 3 inches all over, beginning at one end, so that there 
is no treading on the concrete until perfectly dry. When 
smoothing it down, if found too firm and not smoothing well, 
have a watering-pot with a rose, and sprinkle a little water 
over it, but no more than will enable the operator to level it 
properly, bearing in mind to let it have the same fall from the 
wall to the outside as the foundation of sand on which it is laid. 
It must now be let alone until it is thoroughly hard, which will 
be in about ten days if the weather is fine and dry, when some 
nice round boulders were put all on the top, to the depth of 
4 inches, and filling up the drain in front at the same time to 
the same level. Then a good thick sod, with the grass side 
downwards, was laid all over the drainage, before the regular 
filling-up with soil was commenced, which, when done, was 
raised 6 inches higher than the natural ground, to allow for 
subsiding, keeping it always a few inches higher at the wall— 
giving a gentle fall to the Box-edge. From the nature of our 
subsoil here, I have found these borders, through the very dry 
season which we have had, to contain more moisture than other 
parts of the garden which are not concreted. 

Not wishing to spoil the wall by nailing, which has several 
objections, studs with eyes were put in between every third 
line of bricks, standing about an inch from the wall, haying 
stronger ones at the ends to act as stretchers; and after the 
wire, which was galvanised, was passed through all but the end 
ones, and drawn tight; a 9-inch in length piece of small rod- 
iron, with an eye at one end to fasten the wire to, and nearly 
all the length, had a screw-thread worked on, when the wire 
had been fastened to the other end, put through the end stud; 
then a screw-nut was put on, so that all was made as tight as 
required. The first outlay may be a little more than the yearly 
bills for nails and shreds, but a very few years would soon 
cover the first expense, as a few mats go a long way in tying. 


January 19, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 47 


Trees trained to the wire here, in a general way, do not bloom 
so soon in spring as when close to the wall, and the fruit is 
eleaner and more regular in colour; and as for insects, there is 
no harbour at all for them. 

From the success attending the above operations, I am in- 
duced to send them, knowing that where such a subsoil exists, 
if followed, the results will be as successful as here.—A. H., 
Thoresby Park Gardens.—(The Gardener.) 


{The Editor of ‘‘ The Gardener” remarks, “ The young wall 
trees at Thoresby are models of health and fruitfulness ’’—just, 
wo may add, as every department of that great garden is an 
example of Mr. Henderson’s good management.—EDs. | 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 
January 15H. 


Tuts was the first meeting of the year, and though the day offered 
a favourable contrast to those we have lately had, still everyone was 
surprised at the number of plants exhibited, and the unwonted gaiety 
which the Council Room presented, so early in the season. 

Fruir Commirrre.—G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. 
Messrs. Veitch & Sons, of Chelsea, sent excellent specimens of Snow’s 
Winter White Broccoli, which was highly commended by the Com- 
mittee. Mr. Tillery, of the gardens, Welbeck, sent a brace of Cucum- 
bers, the variety raised by Mr. Hollah, of Rufford Abbey. Mr. Tillery 
stated that he had been cutting from two to three brace every week 
for the last eight weeks, and he considered it the best winter Cucumber. 
Signor Domenico Piccorillo, 41, Wigmore Street, sent a quantity of 
Naples Giant Chestnuts and Sweet Oranges. The Chestnuts were 
very large and fine, and a special certificate was awarded to the exhi- 
bitor. Mr. Osman, gardener to R. Holland, Esq., Stanmore Hall, 
Middlesex, sent a dish of nice St. Michael’s Oranges, but they were 
not ripe. Col. Le Couteur, of Bellevue, Jersey, sent a dish of Bahia 
Navel Orange, the pips being produced in a nipple on the end of the 
fruit. The flavour was good, though rather acid. Alfred Smee, Esq., 
F.R.S., exhibited specimens of Lemon from Sicily, severely attacked 
with a scale which has attacked the Lemons all through Sicily with 
the exception of Palermo. ‘Wherever this attacks the fruit it never 
ripens. This scale is allied to that which attacks the Oleander. Mr. 
Meredith, of Garston, near Liverpool, sent splendid bunches of Muscat 
of Alexandria Grapes, which received a special certificate. Mr. 
Tillery, of Welbeck, sent a bunch of Gros Guillaume and Trebbiano 
Grapes which had been cut for a month and kept in a bottle of water. 

Messrs. Carter & Co., of Holborn, sent a dish of their Main Crop 
Potato, some of which were boiled to test the flavour, which the Com- 
mittee did not consider of any special merit. Col. Le Couteur sent a 
collection of Pears from Jersey, consisting of Colmar d’Aremberg, 
Jaminette, and Pengethley, none of which were ripe. Mr. W. Ewart, 
the girdens, Apthorpe, near Wansford, sent a dish of very fine Easter 
Beurré Pears, which received a special certificate. Mr. Clark, the 
gardens, Roehampton Lodge, sent a good dish of Glou Morceau Pear, 
which received a special certificate. Mr. Jennings, of Shipston-on- 
Stour, sent specimens of Fairy Apple, which was much admired 
for its ornamental character. Mr. Miles, the gardens, Wycombe 
Abbey, sent a dish of the Black Crab, or Pomme Noire. Messrs. 
Backhouse & Son, of York, exhibited a dish of Galloway Pippin, a 
handsome Apple, which was ordered to be cooked and then submitted 
to a sub-committee to report to the next meeting. Mr. Scott, Merriott 
Nurseries, Crewkerne, sent 250 varieties of Apples grown on the Para- 
dise stock. These were sent to show ‘‘how well Apples keep when 
wrapped up in old newspapers. Mine were mostly sound. They keep 
until May, hardly any of them going off.” ‘The collection was in good 
condition, and received a special certificate. 

Prizes were offered in Class 3 for the best three dishes of Kitchen 
Apples. The first prize was awarded to Mr. Turner, for remarkably 
large and fine fruit of Golden Noble, Alfriston, and Blenheim Pippin. 
‘The second prize went to Mr. Parsons, gardener to R. Attenborough, 
Esq., Acton Green, for Golden Noble, Blenheim Pippin, and Dume- 
low’s Seedling, large and well ripened, though not equal in size to 
those from Mr. Turner. Good dishes of Blenheim Pippin, Bedford- 
shire Foundling, Gloria Mundi, Alfriston, and Golden Noble were 
valso shown by other exhibitors. Class 4 was for Kitchen Pears. The 
best three dishes came from Mr. Turner, and consisted of Catillac, 
Uvedale’s St. Germain, and Vicar of Winkfield. Mr. Gardiner, 
Lower Eatington Park, was second. 


Frorat Commirrer.—Mr. Fraser in the chair. From Mr. Den- 
ming, gardener to Lord Londesborough, Grimston Park, Tadcaster, 
came a splendid collection of Orchids, among which were magnificent 
‘specimens of Lelia anceps, Lelia autumnalis, Saccolabium giganteum, 
‘and Lycaste Skinneri; also Calanthes, Dendrobiums, Odontoglossums, 
and Oncidiums, and a beautiful specimen of Barkeria Skinneri su- 
perba, and a fine deeper-coloured variety of Lelia autumnalis. A 
special certificate was given for the collection, and special certificates 
for the fine specimen of Lelia anceps and Barkeria Skinneri. 

Messrs. Backhouse & Son, of York, sent a fine example of Lelia 
antumnalis, a large-fowered variety, which received a special cer- 
tificate. 

Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, sent a fine collection of Orchids and 


other plants, for which a special certificate was given. In this were a 
large plant of Lelia anceps, a fine Mormodes Colossus which had a 
second-class certificate, Bolbophyllum auricomum bearing much re- 
semblance to a Grass in flower, several Odontoglossums, Lelia anceps 
Dawsoni, a beautiful variety ; Cypripedium vexillarium, a finely-coloured 
hybrid between C. Fairrieanum and barbatum, which received a first- 
class certificate; Phajus irroratus, a hybrid between P. grandiflorus 
and Calanthe vestita alba; several Palms; and an unnamed species of 
Stenorhynchus from Chiriqui, with waxy purplish-rose flower heads. 

Mr. Burnett, gardener to W. Terry, Esq., Peterborough House, 
Fulham, sent a good example of Ansctochilus Lowii, Angrecum 
sesquipedale with five flowers; Cypripedium longifolium, delicately 
coloured, and very pretty ; and Saccolabium Harrisonii and giganteum. 

Mr. Green, gardener to W. Wilson Saunders, Esq., Hillfield, Rei- 
gate, sent a small group consisting of Sonchus platylepis, a handsome 
large-leaved Sow Thistle from Teneriffe ; cut specimens of Aonium 
Holochrysum from the Canaries, forming very pretty golden pyramids, 
and Maxillaria leontoglossis, very pale yellow, spotted with purple. 

Mr. Williams, of Holloway, exhibited a pretty group of Palms, 
Dracenas, Genetyllis Hookeri in excellent bloom, his hybrid Solanums 
loaded with fine high-coloured fruit, and several fine-foliaged plants. 
A special certificate was given. Messrs. Lucking Brothers sent forced 
flowers, such as Hyacinths, Azaleas, and Tulips, in ornamental baskets 
and china pot-holders, likewise several remarkably tasteful bouquets. 
For these exhibitions a special certificate was awarded. From the 
Society's garden, Kensington, came a collection of Orchids, including 
fine specimens of Cattleyas, Lycaste Skinneri, Wc. For this a special 
certificate was given. 

Mr. Ware, Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, had a special certifi- 
cate for an interesting collection of Succulent plants. Mr. Turner, 
Slongh, sent Tricolor Pelargoniums Mrs. Headly and Mr. Rutter, 
which is to be seen again ; also Chinese Primulas blush, lilac, and red. 
A special certificate was awarded Mr. Turner for these, also one for a 
fine collection of seedling Aucubas in berry, some with green others 
with mottled leaves, varying in the depth of their colour, and some of 
them bearing a remarkable profusion of berries. Mr. Stevens, of 
Ealing, sent a collection of well-bloomed Chinese Primulas and one of - 
Cyclamens, for which a special certificate was given. From Mr. 
Williams came an Aucuba with large yellow berries, which, however, 
do not show to such advantage as the red berries; also Aralia platani- 
folia, which is likely to prove a handsome plant for subtropical gardens. 

Mr. Wiggins, gardener to W. Beck, Esq., Isleworth, sent a fine 
collection of Cyclamens, a white, called album fimbriatum, being 
nicely fringed; My. Goddard, gardener to H. Little, Esq., Twicken- 
ham, several finely-coloured varieties, Snowflake, a fine white, and one 
called fragrans, delicately scented. A beautiful spike of Odonto- 
glossum Bluntii came from Messrs. J. Brooke & Co., Fairfield 
Nurseries, Manchester. This was awarded a special certificate. Mr. 
George, gardener to Miss Nicholson, Putney Heath, sent a yellow- 
berried Solanum of the Capsicastrum section, but the fruit was only 
partially ripe. Messrs. Dobson & Son, Isleworth, had a special cer- 
tificate for a collection of Chinese Primulas, of various colours, of a 


| fine strain. E. J. Lowe, Esq., Highfield House, Notts, contributed a 


rather numerous collection of new forms of British Ferns; of these 
Adiantum capillus-Veneris admirabile, and Scolopendrium vulgare 
consummatum, received first-class certificates. Messrs. Cutbush and 
Son sent Aucuba japonica fem. aureo-maculata with a large yellow” 
blotch in the centre of the leaves, a finely-marked variety ; and from 
Messrs. Carter & Co., High Holborn, came a case of the fruit of Sola- 
num ciliatum (Lamarck), of which it is stated the plant grows from 
12 to 18 inches high, has shining dark green foliage, and is well 
adapted asa pot plant for table decoration. The fruit is highly 
ornamental, being upwards of an inch in diameter, and of a fine 
reddish-orange colour. 

Messrs. A. Henderson & Co., Pine-Apple Place Nurseries, received 
a special certificate for a fine pot of Lily of Valley, exhibited along 
with a group of Palms, in which were several very ornamental species 
for table and room decoration. A special certificate was given for the 
group. Messrs. A. Henderson likewise had a second-class certificate 
for Ficus lanceolata, an elegant dark-leaved species. 

Prizes were offered for the best nine Ivies in pots. The first prize 
was taken by Mr. Turner, of Slough, with Hedera Helix lucida, a fine 
shining-leaved kind; latifolia maculata, lobata major, aurea, algeriensis, 
heterophylla, grandiflora pallida, the small-leayed variety, and ma- 
culata. These plants were trained as cones. Messrs. Lane sent a 
collection trained as pyramids on wire, among which were Regner’s, 
Gold-blotched, Clanwoodiana, and canariensis, all of which are very 
pretty. Messrs. Cutbush also sent two collections, among which were 
several of the above and other fine varieties. 

Mr. W. Robinson sent a number of horticultural tools and instru- 
ments which he had collected during his recent travels in America ; 
also various dried fruits, as Peaches and Plums, fruits preserved fresh 
in cans, Asparagus similarly treated, Indian Corn fresh, and prepared 
as Pop Corn pepper, in which state it is said to be like arrowroot for 
puddings; as well as Apples, Onions, and Potatoes, many of them 
from the Salt Lake. Dried specimens of a pretty alpine plant, from 
the summit of the Rocky Mountains, attracted considerable attention. 


Geyerat Mertinc.—G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. 
After the election of thirty-two new Fellows, and the announcement 


43 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 19, 1871. 


of the Committee awards, the Rey. M. J. Berkeley directed attention 
to some of the most remarkable subjects exhibited. With regard to 
Ficus lanceolata, he considerediit would be extremely valuable if it 
proved as hardy as Ficus elastica, so would be the yellow-berried 
Aucnba if its berries retained that colour when older. The beautiful 
branched spike of Odontoglossum Bluntii also deserved particular 
notice, more especially as he believed it was the first time a branched 
raceme of it had been shown. He considered he ought to mention 
that the Easter Beurré Pears from Apthorpe Gardens were the pro- 
duce of grafts he had brought from Lille, inserted in a Potato, in 
1838 ; that winter, some would remember, was excessively severe, and 
it was many weeks before the grafts could be worked, and yet they 
had grown, and the tree was now in the most flourishing condition. 
The peculiarity of the Navel Orange, from Bahia, producing seeds 
only at the apex, and not in the pulp as with other Oranges, was then 
referred to as having a parallel case in the Portemanteau Gourd. Of 
Ada aurantiaca it was. stated that a Frenchman, lately looking out for 
subjects for ornamental pottery, was enraptured with it, considering it 
one of the most beautiful of all plants for the purpose. Mr. Berkeley 
said he would mention, as an ornamental species, the Sonchus shown 
by Mr. Wilson Saunders but principally because there were other 
plants from the Canaries to which he wished to call attention, pare 
ticularly the many shrubby species of Echiura, which it would be ex- 
tremely desirable to re-introduce for greenhouse decoration. 

Mr. Berkeley then drew attention to the fruit of Stangeria paradoxa, 
the first, he believed, that had ever been perfected in this country, 
though male cones had been. This singular plant was allied to the 
Cycads, but was so like a Fern that it had been at first described as a 
species of Lomaria. The ‘“‘ Botanical Magazine” of 1859 contained a 
good figure of the male plant (t. 5121), and it was there remarked, 
‘This very remarkable plant, which in its habit and foliage resembles 
no other of the Natural Order to which it belongs, was first in 1835 
imperfectly noticed by Kunze as a South African Fern (Lomaria), and 
was sent by Dr. Stanger from Natal to N. B. Ward, Esq., and by him 
given to the Chelsea Botanic Gardens long after—yiz.,in 1851. It 
was first described by Mr. Moore, from imperfect specimens, as a 
‘Zamia-like Fern,’ or ‘Fern-line Zamia,’ and the opinion expressed 
that its affinity appears to be rather with Cycadex than Ferns, which 
has since proved to be quite correct. In 1854 specimens with cones 
were exhibited to the Linnean Society by Mr. Stevens (Proc. Linn. 
Soe. y. 2. p. 340), and since then both male and female cones have been 
produced at Kew, but unfortunately not in the same year. Of these, 
a pair of female cones, formed in April, 1858, produced perfect ovules, 
and withered away; and in the same month of the present year 
another plant produced the male cone figured in our plate.” 

Frequent complaints, Mr. Berkeley said, had been made by persons | 
who had sown Aucuba seeds that they could not get them to germi- 
nate ; he believed that this was owing to want of patience, for the 
seeds lay in the ground several months before germinating. Dr. 
Thomson had found them come up very well at Kew when snificient 
time was allowed. The same remark applied to the Scarlet-berried 
Elder (Sambucus racemosa), to the beauty of which when in fruit in 
Aberdeenshire he had at a former meeting called attention, and he 
had since procured a mass of seed for distribution among the Fellows 
of the Society. If seeds slow of germination were sown in autumn 
they would mostly germinate in spring, but if sowing were deferred till 
spring they would often not germinate till the following spring. He 
would therefore recommend all persons to have the pots in which seed 


was sown properly labelled, and not to throw the seed away rashly. 
Mr. Robinson’s collection, already noticed, was next referred to as 
being of an interesting character, especially the preserved fruit; and 
in connection with the Pop Corn used in puddings, Mr. Berkeley said 
the small compact varieties were the best for the purpose. He then 
produced some heads sent by C. W. Strickland, Esq., grown fourteen 
miles north of York, their perfect state of ripeness being in his (Mr. 
Berkeley’s) opinion a great triumph for so northern a latitude. 


Mr. Marshall said all must have noticed the frequent complaints 
which had been made of the similarity of our exhibitions, the same- 
ness of the exhibitors and the subjects, and he would submit a proposi- 
tion which he thought would tend to effect an alteration in this state of 
things. It was, however, only a proposition, and no doubt would 
admit of considerable modification and improvement, and in what 
points he would be glad to learn. It was this—that those who might 
be desirous of competing should send in their names to the Secretary 
of the Royal Horticultural Society, accompanied with an-entrance-fee 
of £5, and at the same time name the twenty stove or greenhouse 
plants which they would prefer to grow, and out of which they were 
to exhibit ten in May or June, 1873. These were to be bought ona 
given day, in 6-inch pots, of any nurserymen who might be agreed 
upon by vote among the subscribers; the plants to be marked by 
means of a piece of tape, tied and sealed round the stem or lower 
branches, for the purpose of recognition, and be inspected once a-year, 
or more frequently if considered necessary, by some one apxointed by 
the Council. The Society to give a challenge cup, valne £50, which if 
won three times by any one person was to be his property. The 
entry fees to be divided into first, second, and third prizes, according to 
their amount and number. This scheme Mr. Marshall thought would 
xemove what had been so often complained of—that young exhibitors 
had no chance against those who had been longer in the field, inas- 
much as all would start at one time and show at one time. 


The Chairman remarked as no one had come forward to claim Mr_ 
Bateman’s prizes for cut Cattleyas, they would be offered again at the 
next Committee meeting, which would be held on February 15th; 
also that the Annual General Meeting would take place on Feb- 
ruary 14th. ——- 

Ar the meeting of Council this day, it was decided to recom- 
mend Messrs. J. Bateman, F.R.S., John Kelk, and E. J. Lowe, 
F.R.S., to the Fellows for election at the next annual meeting, 
in place of Messrs. Andrew Murray and Sigismund Rucker, 
and Dr. Thomas Thomson, F.R.S., who retire. Mr. John 
Clutton is recommended as Treasurer, and Lieut.-Col. Scott, 
BR.E., as Secretary. Messrs. Wilson Saunders, John Clutton, 
and Sigismund Rucker are nominated for the Expense Com- 
mittee. 


PORTRAIT OF MR. RIVERS. 


In addition to those already announced, subscriptions have 
been received from the following :— 
$ ipa. . 
Neame, J. R., Hsq., Cambridge Terrace, Hastings 010 0 
Pearse, Miss, Launceston 010 0 
Tillery, Mr. W., The Gardens, Welbeck Abbey . 010 6 


FORCING SEA-KALE, ASPARAGUS, AND 
RHUBARB. 


A pisH of compact bushy Sea-kale from 4 to 6 inches in 
length is very different from that from heads which ayerage 
from 8 to 10 inches long. We have several times been non- 
plussed at seeing in some of our largest places small houses 
filled with Asparagus before Christmas and onwards, and hun- 
dreds and hundreds of heads of Sea-kale coming in at once in 
a warm dark place. We felt ourselves at a loss as to how 
this could be done. We have locked at the large gardens and 
the large space devoted to Asparagus and Sea-kale, but knowing 
something of the little space a large piece of such plants can 
be squeezed into in a forcing house or pit, the wonder with us 
was where the plants were to come from year after year. We 
knew a clever cook who would not be satisfied with strong 
white Sea-kale some 5 inches in length, but would merely nip 
out the central part, about 14 inch in length, and who wanted, 
therefore, an immense quantity fora dish. Why, the whole 
of our little kitchen garden, if all Sea-kale, would hardly have 
kept up a good succession from November to May at that rate. 
In seeing these large beds under forcing treatment, seeing also 
2 good stock of such vegetables in summer, the wonder to us 
was—knowing that Asparagus plants taken up and forced are 
of no use afterwards—where these forcing plants could come 
from ; but we are not at all surprised at some such cases now 
when we find that all the earliest successions are, as respects 
the plants used, bought every season. Under such circum- 
stances Asparagus and Sea-kale may be had every day in 
winter, even if the garden is not very large. Such a daily 
gathering would be impossible where only a small space can be 


devoted to such vegetables, and dependance must rest on home- 


raised plants in the open air. We have thought it right to 
mention this so prominently, because many who, seeing what 
others have, are dissatisfied with the amount of Asparagus they 
have in winter, would be still more dissatisfied if they were 
not well supplied with shoots from the open air in spring. 
The gentleman who purchases freely in this respect, and has 
but a small kitchen garden, must have a greater and more 
regular supply than a proprietor in similar circumstances who 
depends entirely on plants of home growth. All this, simple 
though it be, is often apt to be overlooked. 

Unless the ground is very suitable, deep, rich, and rather 
light, it is not often that Asparagus is worth taking up to force 
until it is four or five years old from the seed, and then the 
plants are of no further use. This taking-up plan and giving 
the help of a hotbed or a pit is, perhaps, the best for the first 
or earliest crop in winter; but it is always expensive, owing to 
the loss of the plants. For successions, it would be more 
economical to grow plants in beds, that could be forced by hot 
water or dung linings, forcing these beds every alternate year. 
The most of us with limited room take up a piece every year, and 
at first are satisfied with occasional, instead of daily gatherings. 

For the later spring Sea-kale some similar plan to that re- 
ferred to as respects Asparagus in pits may be adopted, and 
thus the same plants may pretty well be forced every year. 
For early supply we think it in every way the most econo- 
mical to take up a lot of roots at the end of October, and place 
them for successions in a warm dark place—say in a tempe- 


January 19, 1871. ] 


ature of from 55° to 60°, with 10° more at the roots. There 
‘is not the same loss with them as with Asparegus taken up, as 
instead of being of no further use after forcing, every bit of 
the forced roots, when cut up into 4 or 6-inch lengths, hardened 
off, and planted out, soon makes a fine plant. Of late, partly 
owing to birds interfering with the seeds, we have raised few 
Sea-kale plants from seed. We prefer planting the pieces of 
the roots in rows in the way referred to, and find they make 
better plants than seedlings. Some of these pieces grew so 
strongly the first season, that we have taken them up in the 
following November; but in general we let them have two 
summers’ growth before raising them. Thus, supposing we 
plant the root pieces in March or April, 1871, we should gene- 
rally lift to force again in October or November, 1872. 

Rhubarb taken up to force may be transplanted again in the 
same way; butit is as well that each piece should have a bud. 
There is no necessity for anything of the sort as respects the 
roots of Sea-kale; we have used them as small as a straw of 
wheat; but we like them better if as large in diameter as our 
little or even our middle finger. These cut at bottom and straight 
across at top, and of the lengths specified, are planted with the 
dibber firmly in rows 2 feet apart from row to row, the upper 
end being close to the surface of the ground. To keep vermin 
from them, a cone of ashes is laid along the row. As the spring 
advances the upper end will bristle round the edges with buds, 
and the only trouble required is to thin these out to two or 
three. With seedlings there will only be the one bud. From 
seed sown in April we have had fine plants for forcing in the 
second autumn, but we think there is less risk from fly, birds, 
&e., by using piezes of the roots. 

Our reason for alluding to the matter is, that we know there 
are thousands of cases in which the holders of gardens are 
satisfied with Sea-kale in the spring months, by placing a pot 
over it, with or without protecting material, as leaves or litter. 
They look upon getting fresh plantations, rearing seedlings, as 
something to be shunned. Many of these might have a dish 
not every day, but frequently during the winter, were they con- 
yinced that the roots taken up could be cut to pieces and 
planted again. We haye seen very fine Sea-kale in 2 common 
cellar without any covering, where it was dark enough; and 
when wanted early the roots were packed in large pots, watered 
with water at about 100°, and pots placed over them and kept 
close to retain the heat. We have seen it very fine in a close 
box near a kitchen fire. In fact, it will do very well in any 
place where a little heat can be obtained along with darkness. 

In the open air after this time, where appearance is no object, 
Sea-kale may be forwarded after the frost is out of the ground, 
by placing over it a foot or even less of clean tree leaves. The 
shoots will make little mounds in the leaves before they are 
6 inches in length, so as to show you they want looking at. On 
taxing our memory, perhaps the very sweetest and whitest Sea- 
kale we ever saw was gathered from beds out of doors, covered 
in the autumn with 7 inches of bog earth, and that covered 
with a foot of litter. We have had it very fine covered with 
clean ashes, but these do not fall off so clean as the bog earth. 
Under pots it can be had very clean, the great point is to cut 
in time before it becomes lanky, and then every bit, except a 
scale or two at the base, should go to table. Much ground 
would be required if only the heart bit were cooked.—R. F. 


HOAR FROST. 


WHEN summer droughts are gone, and autumn rains have 
ceased to fill the running brooks and flood the river banks— 
when the short sunless days and long cold nights have stolen 
from the soil its generous warmth—then the keen, mastering, 
all-subduing Frost wakes up from his long summer sleep; by 
slow degrees he throws aside the torpor of inactivity, and 
musters all his powers for the coming struggle with winter 
storms. With a cruel smile he mocks at summer’s beauty and 
autumn’s lingering growth, and in his long duration threatens 
to rob spring buds of their promise. Down from snow moun- 
tains, and over icy plains, and across frozen streams he comes 
nearer and nearer; a clear bright sky, not blue but white, and 
@ sharp ringing air through which sounds travel fast and far, 
herald his approach. Through the dark hours of the night he 
Steals silently along, working best and surest when night is 
dying into morning. Nothing can stay his progress, every- 
where he spreads his pure garment oi dazzling beauty; over 
fields, and hedges, and woods, and broad highways leading to 
busy cities, and lonely footpaths leading out into Nature’s 
desolate places, he throws his glittering array. Nothing too 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


49 


high or too low; he climbs the loftiest hills, and sinks into the 
lowliest valleys; he covers with an equal grace thatched cot- 
tage, and ancient church, and stately hall, and sloping lawn, 
and creeping moss, and withered Ferns, and tiny pebbles. 

He passes through quiet lanes and breathes his destroying 
breath on every wayside weed, or wandering insect seeking too 
late its winter home; he crosses with rapid strides the wide 
open common, and uttering a cry of distress the birds seek the 
shelter of the nearest covert; he lingers in the forest where the 
tall naked trees stand forth in their magnificence of form and 
branch and interlacing twig, and turns each venerable Oak and 
sturdy Elm into coral reefs of glittering whiteness; he hangs 
graceful plumes on the lady Birch, yet leaves not the smallest 
blade of grass or fallen acorn unadorned. He creeps into 
every hole and cranny, looks over every garden wall, enters 
every open door and unclosed shutter. He paints his colour- 
less pictures on every cathedral window, and writes in pencil 
lines of exceeding beauty the ancient story of his visit on 
every pane of glass. He silences the sweet music of the run- 
ning brook, changes all its laughing smiles to still cold stone. 
He interrupts the current of the mighty river, driving to its 
deeper depths the lives that sported near its surface. He 
presses on closer and closer to the homes of men, hangs 
glittering icicles round cottage porch where Roses and Jasmine 
so lately bloomed, and stands waiting for admission at the 
well-guarded door of princely mansion. He lays a cold heavy 
hand on every living thing that comes unfriended within his 
reach ; he overtakes the laggard gardener, and seals the death 
warrant of his tender treasures. He hushes all too soon the 
redbreast’s song, and tracks the thrush to its safe retreat 
within the warm entwining arms of the thick Holly. All 
around the dwelling places of men hoe weaves his sparkling 
web, turning each drop of moisture to brilliant crystal, sub- 
duing all colour to his ghost-like whiteness. He finds his way 
to every town and village, passing noiselessly through the open’ 
squares where wealth and plenty are safely sheltered from 
winter frosts; through narrow streets and dark alleys, where 
the want of food and fuel makes his presence keenly felt. He 
pushes his way through the porous walls of mean-built houses, 
sits by the hearth an unbidden guest, steals from the fire its 
accustomed warmth, from the home its weleome comfort; he 
brings strength to the strong, and weakness to the weak, en- 
feebling the feeble step, and blanching the maiden’s cheek, and 
imparting a deep joy to the young strong life that can bear hig 
keenest blasts. Over all the hoar frost throws a charm, &- 
marvellous grace, reveals to us a new creation, before which we 
stand in reverent wonder.—Mavp. 


SNOW anv ICE DESTRUCTIVE TO GLASS ROOFS. 


We may here make some remarks as respects lean-to orchard 
houses that are at all flat, in reference to their carrying a good 


} weight of snow when glazed with large squares, say 20 inches 


across from bar to bar. These lean-to’s are rather more than 
11 feet wide, 10 feet high at the back, and from 4 to 43 feet 
high in front, according to the ground. Such a roof would sub- 
tend an angle of from 55° to 60°, and, therefore, be consider- 
ably flatter than a roof at 45°, the angle subtended by a right- 
angled triangle. On a roof at 55° the snow will lie longer 
than on one at 45°, but until this season we never knew if 
lie long enough to do any harm. In our larger house we do 
not think a square of glass was cracked, for the snow, as it got 
heavy, slid off, or melted gradually away. Here, however, 
nothing was done to interfere with the cold and the snow except 
keeping the house shut. In the smaller house other matters 
were alike, except that for securing comfort and preserving some 
things that otherwise might have been injured, a little firing 
was used in an iron stove, which tended to melt the snow & 
little towards the top of the roof, and the moisture trickling 
down towards the front under the snow froze in the sharp frost, 
and became a firm mags of ice and snow, which we could not 
move if we wished. The greater weight of this mass told on 
the glass in some cases, so that in looking over we found we 
had to replace two squares broken outright by this congealed 
weight, and we find there are four or five more squares cracked 
in the middle, which we shall replace the first fine day. Now, 
the cracking of these few squares we attribute not at all to con- 
traction or expansion, but merely to the weight of the frozen 
mass of ice and snow over them, and that weight would not 
have been felt but for the heat from the iron stove and the 
keen frost acting together, nor if, whilst the snow was soft, 
we had swept the snow from the lowest part of the roof, as 


50 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 19, 1871. 


then that on the upper part would have slid right off. The 
truth is, that we wanted the snow to lie as a good protection, 
and even in this respect we shall be gainers by it, as the benefit 
derived will greatly exceed the value and trouble of replacing 
five or six squares of glass. 

From such a simple matter a useful lesson may be learned. 
If there had been no artificial heat, if the lower snow had been 
moved, if the squares had been 4 or 5 inches less in width 
from bar to bar, or if the squares had been 21 or more ounces 
to the foot instead of about 15 ounces, then in either case it is 
likely that no square would have been broken. 

We are quite aware that glass is often broken by ice forming 
and expanding in the lap betwixt the panes of glass. In steep- 
roofed houses, and eyen in sashes to pits that have a good in- 
cline, this is most apt to take place in frosty weather at the 
lowest squares, where the first square rests upon the wood, and 
that all the more in proportion to the heat used inside and the 
severity of the frost outside. When long squares are used, 
this often entails great loss from the chipping and cracking in 
front of these terminal squares. We have known cases in 
which, owing to very sudden and extreme changes of ternpe- 
rature, this cracking from the expansion of frozen water would 
take place here and there over a whole roof. Generally, how- 
ever, it is the terminal front square of glass that suffers most 
from this cause. We say nothing now of puttied laps, and 
glass laid edge to edge without laps, and how far these would 
in the body of the house neutralise this ice-expansion. In our 
practice we haye without glazed laps, but narrow laps made 
in the usual way, the glass lying as close as possible, square to 
square, suffered very little from the ice-expansion generally ; 
but we have had a good many front squares cracked where the 
glass joined the wood. To counteract this, many years ago we 
had small squares of zine, say, according to the space between the 
sashbars, of from 3 to 6 inches in depth, that terminated the glaz- 
ing in front, the zine instead of the glass resting on the front 
wood. The zinc was roughly grooved beneath to let condensed 
moisture out. In severe frost we have had these small zine 
squares raised from the wood fully an inch in the centre by the 
expanding ice, but the squares of glass behind them were un- 
touched. The zine squares were easily brought to their level 
when the frost was gone. We have nothing of the sort in the 
orchard houses. As itis, we think we have escaped very well 
with so few squares cracked. It is where heat is used inside 
that the ice is so apt to accumulate at the bottom squares of 
the roof. With improved rafters and sashbars, to collect the 
condensed moisture, so that it shall neither fall over the house 
inside nor find its way out over the front plate of the sashes, 
there would no doubt be less of this accumulation of moisture 
and ice-expansion; but most of us are glad to get common 
conveniences, though we duly estimate all improvements. 

There is another case in which these small terminal zine 
squares are useful. Sashes for frames and pits are now often 
made with a narrower rail or plate in front than used to be the 
custom. These are often moved from the front as well as back. 


It matters not if you have ever such a nice handle for this. 


purpose, if the front rail is at all narrow, the chances are if 
one hand holds the handle, the other seizes the front rail or 
plate, and smack goes a heavy thumb on the front glass, almost 
with the certainty of cracking it. The zinc terminal would 
save the cracking. ‘‘Ah! but how careless and slovenly.” 
True, most true! but, unfortunately, the careless and the slovenly 
seem inbred and natural to most of us. You may paint all 
your garden and house doors very nicely, furnish them with 
all needful handles for opening and shutting, and you will be 
fortunate if in a fortnight you do not find your paint disfigured 
with dirty thumb and finger marks above and beneath the 
handles, where there is not the least occasion for them to be. 
Even nice finger-plates screwed on will not thoroughly save 
you from the annoyance, and yet the handle would have been 
sufficient for all that was wanted, without using the other 
hand to the style of the doorway at all._—R. F. 


SOME PREDATORY INSECTS OF OUR 
GARDENS.—No. 2. 


Some persons when hurrying alonga country road or lane on 
a cold day in December or January, and endeavouring to per- 
suade themselves that because they were walking quickly they 
were really getting a little warm, may have given a glance in 
passing at a paling or wall, and seen there sitting very com- 
posedly some male individuals of the Winter Moth (Cheimatobia 
brumata), shown in the accompanying figure. The dumpling- 


bodied females are, however, rarely seen in such positions, their 
business lying elsewhere. A momentary feeling of surprise 
may come across the observer, if he is at all interested in natural 
phenomena, that in the winter 
season insects should thus come 
forth; and if he think about it, 
he may propound the theory 
that the specimens are in a state 
of bybernation, and are waiting 
for the advent of spring. This 
is not so, however. The Winter 
Moth comes out from its state 
of torpor in the chrysalis state, 
and though it usually emerges 
during some mild break in the 
weather, it will live a certain 
time through frost and snow. 
A pleasant windfall many indi- 
viduals prove to certain hungry 
spiders, who make prey of them in fault of better food. The 
appearance of this Moth seems suited to the season. It is not 
at all downy, but the wings present 2 bare aspect, which befits 
its wintry though brief life. 

Now this brumata, harmless as it might be deemed when 
viewed only in its moth state, is a terrible destroyer of vege- 
tation. The ravages of the species are to be noted most years, 
sometimes in the woodland scene, sometimes in the orchard, 
then again in the garden; for the caterpillar, though it has a 
great liking for Hawthorn, is in no wise particular, and will 
transfer itself very comfortably from one species to another as 
opportunity offers. But its penchant for Hawthorn is a decided 
annoyance to those gardeners, of both sexes, who pride them- 
selves especially on their trim and verdant hedges. In other 
days I can remember more than once being warned off sternly 
by the owner of a garden plot, from whose hedge I kad simply 
plucked a few leaves, without injuring a bough or even a twig; 
and in fact there have been cases where persons have been 
absurdly particular about their hedges enclosing their grounds, 
which said hedges were seen by their neighbours, and yet almost 
careless about the arrangement of the ground within and not 
open to inspection. Are not these persons comparable to cer- 
tain others one meets with, who devote much time to the deco- 
ration of the exterior of the head, and trouble themselves very 
little about the right ordering of the brain which fills it? 

To return to our Winter Moth, however. It is clear that a 
garden pest of this sort can only be effectually kept under by 
attacking it in its various stages at the different seasons of the 
year. Mr. Newman, whose labours in this direction—that is, 
in the investigation of the economy of predatory insects—have 
been so persevering, and as yet scarcely appreciated, points out 
minutely what may be done. The eggs of this motb, which 
are greenish white and of a tolerable size, are laid by the wing- 
less females in crevices in the trunks of trees, sometimes also 
on the branches, and in nooks and corners. Every batch of 
eggs destroyed means not only the reduction of the caterpillars 
in the coming season, but cuts off also those of which, had they 
lived and thriyen, they would have become the parents when 
they emerged as moths. Egg-hunting of this sort is tedious 
work, though one way of killing these eggs, Newman shows, is 
by deferring the pruning of fruit trees until after they are 
deposited, when the prunings will carry away a number of eggs 
with them. Of course it is understood then, that they must 
not be buried or scattered about. The moth is, perhaps, the 
most important object to attack, for it is as certain that dead 
moths lay no eggs as it is that dead men tell no tales. The 
German mode of proceeding is to daub a composition around 
the trunks or stems of trees likely to be ascended by the female 
moths. The best composition for the purpose, says Mr. New- 
man, is a mixture of Stockholm tar and cart-grease, a sticky- 
enough compound; and since the absence of wings necessitates 
the use of legs, and the moths, when they quit their chrysalis 
state in the earth, naturally move upwards, they may be taken 
in numbers by this expedient, the capture of the males being 
a matter of secondary importance. > 

The number of eggs deposited by each female varies from 
150 to 200; and when thousands of these are thus entrapped 
and settled, the following spring is likely to show a great dimi- 
nution in the number of caterpillars infesting the garden. Nor 
does any evil result then ensue to the trees or shrubs about 
which a circle of this composition is drawn, though it is ad- 
mitted that ‘‘ applied in the warm weather of April and May it 
has proved destructive in many cases, probably from its greater 


Female. 
Cheimatobia brumata. 


January 19, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


5h 


fluidity at that time, allowing the tree to absorb it in drying.” 
Also we note, ‘‘ the composition tightens the bark, which should 
therefore be slit the next summer.” Of the caterpillars while 
young the gardener generally takes little heed, and indeed it 
would be by no means easy to hunt them up when newly hatched, 
since they appear at the first expansion of the buds, which 
buds afford them their first supply of food. This is in the 
month of April, at which time the sparrows and other species 
of birds may be noticed to be busily engaged in an attack upon 
the buds, giving rise thereby to some controversy. It is asked, 
‘Do they visit the buds for the sake of the caterpillars, or 
because they admire the flavour of the early vegetation ?” Now, 
though birds are extensive destroyers of insect life, I conceive 
in this case that the buds are the primary object sought, the 
caterpillars being then very minute; still, as many are thus 
killed it lessens our indignation, and the birds’ conduct may 
be deemed partly justified by the result. ‘‘ There’s no place 
like home,” says the song, but if you have no home you cannot 
enter into the spirit of the utterance. Acting upon this, the 
caterpillar of the Winter Moth, as soon as it can, provides for 
itself a home amongst the leaves, and its food being all around, 
it can feed if it chooses without exposing itself much to view. 
Many must, in spite of this, be carried off by parent birds to 
their nestlings, and swarms are also killed while very young by 
the cold winds and spring rains. The colour of this caterpillar 
varies much from a pale green to a smoky black; it is one that 
even the entomological tyro at once recognises as belonging to 
the family or subdivision known as the Loopers (or Geometre), 
though it usually rests, when getting of some size, in a one- 
sided posture, with the head curled round. I believe that a 
period of five or six weeks is generally sufficient to mature the 
caterpillar and prepare it to become a chrysalis. In some 
places children have been employed to pick off these caterpillars 
from bushes and the lower branches of trees. They may be 
beaten off in quantities also, as they readily drop from their 
retreats if this expedient can be ventured upon. 

I referred in my previous paper to one conspicuous pest 
which annually visits our Currant and Gooseberry bushes. A 
little investigation will enable us, if we wish, to discover the 
eggs of the Phcenix Moth (Cidaria ribescaria) in those districts 
where it occurs, for it is not uncommon in yarious parts of the 
British islands, though I have not detected it in those places 
within the London district with which Iam acquainted. These, 
which are deposited by the moth during the summer, are to be 
found in the bark of the bushes named, where they remain 
through the winter. The shape of these eggs is rather singular, 
resembling that of a powder-flask in miniature, and marked 
with ridges. 
dance to do any marked damage, differing therein from the too- 
well-known VY-Moth (Halia wavaria), which, at the moment 
our bushes are getting a little reprieve from Abraxas grossu- 
lariata, begins to attack them unsparingly ; and those who pick 
Gooseberries and pop them into their mouths without scruti- 
nising them, are likely enough to eat a wavaria or two, as I 
have myself done. The V-Moth also deposits its eggs in the 
summer, and those who make a point of looking after the eggs 
of insects when there is little to be done in the garden, may 
succeed in detecting and extinguishing some of these. The 
caterpillars are unpleasant in appearance, warty, and very 
variable in colour, falling readily from their food with a slight 
shake, and remaining doubled up along time. The chrysalis 
is placed amongst the leaves in a slight web. Though usually 
a July moth, in early seasons it may be seen in June—-as, for 
instance, in the very warm summer of 1868, I noted some spe- 
cimens were flying about at the middle of that month. This 
species is decidedly cockneyed, and succeeds in attaining its 
full dimensions in spite of London smoke—indeed some town 
specimens surpass in size others from a distance off. 

One of the most curious particulars connected with entomo- 
logical science is that regarding the long gaps which occur 
in the history of some species—how they are seen and then 
lost sight of for scores of years, to turn up again; or how 
some modern investigator verifies a fact which had been noted 
by ® man who lived in the times of his great-grandfather. 
During the past year a new item of information turned up 
relative to a small beetle (a weevil), which Mr. Newman states 
was first written about in 1833, and subsequently the “ Letters 
of Rusticus ” contained some account of it; then, though often 
hamed as one of the enemies of the Turnip erop in field or 
garden, nothing of importance was recorded about it until Mr. 
Cordeaux observed its habits last winter. This little black 
weevil (known as Nedyus contractus), in spite of its size, is 


The caterpillar rarely occurs in sufficient abun- } 


capable of inflicting considerable damage, and is only one, too, 
out of four or fiveinsects which are partial to these vegetables. 
The author of the ‘‘ Letters”? had stated that ‘‘ the eggs were 
laid on that part of the bulb which is above the ground, and 
the grub which comes from it eats into the rind of the Turnip, 
making it hump up into warts and all manner of rugosities.” 
My, Cordeaux exhibits specimens ‘‘ more or less covered by 2 
mass of knobs and rugosities, in many cases completely alter- 
ing the shape, and impairing both the quality and growth of 
the root. Each of these knobs or excrescences contains e 
small white grub, much sought after both by rooks and wood- 
pigeons, which come daily to feed upon them.’ It appears 
also that though all kinds of Turnips are attacked by this, the 
Swedish suffer least, being harder. How to best meet this 
enemy is a difficult question; the encouragement of the birds 
named, or of others which may play a similar part, would not 
do much good, for it is stated that their mining operations ex- 
pose the roots to the influence of rain and frost ; and, more- 
over, so determined are they to get all they can, that they 
pierce the bulbs in search of more when they haye exhausted 
the knobs. As prevention is better than cure, some plan might 
be devised for the assailing of the imago, which, probably does 
its business in the early part of the autumn.—J. R. 8. C. 


NEW DOUBLE WHITE ZINNIA. 


Way has not the double Zinnia been more grown than it is? 
During the hot summers of 1868 and 1870 it ought to have done 
especially well, aad in the former year I saw it in the gardens 
of M. Souchet, at Fontainebleau, very fine indeed, while some 
fine stands were exhibited at the Metropolitan Floral Society’s 
Show at the Crystal Palace last September; still they ought 


to be more grown than they are, and when ‘‘well done” there 
are few flowers more effective. There have been attempts to 
prove that there are a dozen or more varieties of colour, but 
this is not so, some three or four—scarlet, orange, purple, and 
lilac, being clearly marked. I haye now to announce a novelty 
in the way ofa good double white. There is a dirly white in 


52 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


commerce, but it is a vaut rien. This has been raised in 
America, and the stock has passed into the hands of the firm 
of Carter & Co., of High Holborn. The figure which is here 
given will safiord some idea of the form and character of this 
fine novelty, although, of course, no idea can be given oi its 
purity and elegance.—D., Deal. 


Narionan Tone Socrmty.—At a meeting of the subscribers 
of the Society held at Cambridge last year, after the annual 
show, it was resolved that the Exhibition for 1871 should be 
held in Manchester, and the Council of the Botanical Garden 
there have given £15 to the funds, will provide a tent for the 
Hxhibition, also bottles and other things necessary, and will 
advertise the Exhibition along with their own. The Hxhibi- 
tion will be held on the 26th and 27th May, in conjunction 
with the Nations! Horticultural Exhibition. Many growers 
haye already entered, and, including the £15 donation, above 
£50 has been already subscribed. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 
KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Bur little out-door work can now be done where snow has 
fallen, and it hes done so pretty generally ; men should there- 
fore be employed about such work as can be done within-doors, 
which I have already pointed out. Set traps for mice, and 
destroy all vermin. Look after the crops of Peas and Beans 
in the ground. See to the manure heaps, prepare road- 
scrapings and charred refuse; and mix the rubbish wheeled 
from the vegetable ground with salt. This will form a valuable 
manure for the land. If possible do not employ the same 
description of manure twice in succession on the same land, a 
change will produce the greatest results. As soon as the young 
Carrots in the hotbed are about an inch high, thin them out 
to 3 or 4 inches apart. Radishes are sometimes sown on the 
same bed; when this is the case they should also be thinned 
out, and when ready for use they must be drawn with care, so 
as not to injure the tops of the Carrots. Should the weather 
continue geyere, the frames containing young plants of Cauli- 
Jjlowers and Leituces for spring supply, and the Cabbage Lettuce 
for present use, must be covered-up and well protected. JZush- 
room beds should now be made in sheds or houses purposely 
fitted-up for a spring supply. The horse droppings should be 
well beaten down, and the bed should not be less than a foot 
in depth. Temperature-sticks should then be thrust to the 
bottom in several places and examined daily; when the heat 
has become somewhat regular and not exceeding 90°, the spawn 
may be inserted just below the surface, and the bed afterwards 
earthed-up. Continue, a8 occasion may require, to cover a 
portion of Sea-kale. Rhubarb may also be forced in @ similar 
way. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

The general pruning and training of wall trees and espaliers 
may be proceeded with at all times, except during severe frost. 
Peaches, Nectarine, Figs, and Apricots are, however, better 
left for some time yet. Gooseberries and Currants may be 
planted in rows 5 feet apart, and trained as low espaliers. 
Where room is an object, this is an economical mode of grow- 
ing them. ‘These fruits may now have the necessary pruning. 
Take advantage of frosty weather to wheel manures to such fruit 
quarters as require that assistance. Newly-planted trees of all 
kinds should have their roots protected from frost by a mulch- 
ing of litter ov short dung. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

The stock of bedding-out plants should now be looked over; 
if the stock of anything is short remove a portion of it into a 
warm house to produce cuttings for propagation. It is often 
difficult in the autumn to procure sufficient plants of some 
kinds, and cuttings of all the more softwooded plants struck in 
this and the next month and properly hardened-off, will bloom 
equally well with those struck the previous autumn. It is, 
however, advisable that bedding-out Geraniums and other 
woody plants which require to be of a certain age and size 
before they are transplanted to the open borders, should have 
been struck and well-established before winter, as fresh-struck 
plants of such ave apt to grow too fast to produce a fine show 
of blossom. Bo on the safe side as regards numbers, there 
is rarely an overstock at planting time. In all large places 
some odd corner is set apart for growing the shrubs and plants 
most commonly required to fill-up vacancies; where such is 
the case, cuttings of the more common ornamental shrubs may 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. { January 19, 1871. 


now be put in, with Honeysuckles, Roses, &c. Hyery de- 
scription of plant used for the above purpose should be pro- 
pagated, and the more showy herbaceous plants should always 
form a part. The stock of evergreens should be frequently 
lifted, that their final removal may be effected at any season 
without risk. In severe weather beds of Pinks are apt to be 
eaten down to the stumps by rabbits. Many florists’ gardens 
are exposed to this serious disaster; it is advisable to protect 
the beds with galvanised wire-netting, placing some larch 
stakes, 2 feet out of the ground, at short intervals round the 
bed, to which the wire should be fastened. The depredations 
of rabbits would thus be effectually prevented, and I know of 
nothing better, even when there is none of these vermin in the 
vicinity, than a close-meshed wire net as a protection to beds 
of Pansies, Carnations, Tulips, &c., which are often more in- 
jured in spring from cold cutting winds than from frost. The 
Ranunculus bed should have attention; give it a slight forking 
over, throwing it up into little ridges; these can be levelled- 
down at any time previous to planting. Look over the col- 
lection of roots, separate the offsets from those which are large 
enough to bloom for planting in the reserve bed; these will 
flower splknlidly the succeeding season. It igs from want of 
this that we often see large spaces in the amateur’s Ranunculus 
bed without a bloom. Hollyhocks appear to be coming fast 
into favour, not only as beautiful border plants, but also as 
a florists’ flower for exhibition. Those planted in the border 
are extremely subject to the attacks of slugs, which greedily 
feed on the fleshy shoots; a dusting of soot occasionally will 
make these less palatable. Those plants which are wintered 
in pots must have the decayed leaves carefully removed. If 
flowers are required to occupy in spring the beds which are 
afterwards devoted to the usual bedding-out plants, they will 
have been planted, and such being the case, some choice ones 
now pushing may require a slight protection from severe frost. 
Sawdust, leaf mould, or old tan may be put over the best sorts 
of Anemones, Scillas, Hyacinths, and Tulips, covering the 
ground afterwards so as to resemble that of the other beds. 
The pleasure ground will require frequent sweeping and rolling, 
the walks to be rolled, especially after frost, and every attention 
ought to be paid to neatness and order. Deciduous trees and 
shrubs may now be thinned-out and pruned if necessary ; 
evergreens, however, had better remain untouched for the 
present. Planting, too, should not be done at this season 
except in extreme cases, but ground to be planted may now be 
prepared with advantage. 
GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Although it is not yet desirable to shift the general stock of 
stove and greenhouse plants for a few weeks, under some cir- 
cumstances a part may require fresh potting at this time. 
When such is the case room must be made to keep them apart 
from the general stock for a short time afterwards, as their 
treatment will be somewhat different. Most softwooded plants 
require heading-back or pruning at the present season, and 
this should always be performed a sufficient time before the 
plant is repotted, in order to enable it to make a fresh growth. 
It is likewise often necessary, with this class of plants, to dis- 
root them to some extent at this potting, which is an additional 
inducement to defer repotting till the plant has made sufficient 
growth—say young shoots an inch long—to enable it to bear 
the operation without injury. Attend to the training of plants 
on wires and trellises. Fast-growing plants, such as Tropr- 
olums, will require frequent attention. Cinerarias will now 
require some assistance in the shape of weak manure water. 
Watch for green fly, to which this plant is very liable. As the 
principal kinds of Begonias will now be showing bloom, they 
may be advantageously removed to the conservatory, previously 
staking them carefully to preserve their fine foliage from being 
damaged. In some old conservatories the flues frequently run 
under the pathway, and are only separated from the bed in 
which the plants are growing by 4-inch brickwork. Where 
this is the case it may reasonably be expected that the soil in 
immediate contact with the brickwork will become dry at the 
bottom if fires are required, and yet may appear moist at the 
top; the soil should in such cages be examined frequently, and 
have water accordingly. 

STOVE. 

Stove plants will be much benefited by bottom heat and a 
moist temperature till active growth commence. Thin and tie 
out the shoots as they advance, to form the plants into the 
desired specimens, and guard against injuring the foliage. 
Much of the beauty of plants consists in their haying clean, 
healthy foliage. Dry roots of Gloriosa, and a portion of the 


January 19, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


53 


stock of Gesneras, Gloxinias, Achimenes, and other herbaceous 


stove plants, may now be plunged in bottom heat to start them | 


previously to potting.—W. Knanr. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


WHEN writing on Saturday week the snow had all gone, and 
it has disappeared egain on this the 14th, after quite as sudden 
athaw; but the frost during the week has done more injury 
than the more severe frost preceding it, as even a day or two 
of mild weather, after an attack of frost, makes the plants 
more sensitive afterwards, and requires more care and con- 
sideration on the part of the gardener. 


BITCHEN GARDEN. 

Though we used litter and laurel branches when this week’s 
rost set in, we fear that some of our earliest Broccoli and our 
earliest Cabbages have suffered considerably, even though we 
took these means to keep the frost from them. Lettuces and 
Endive of any size have also suffered a little, all plants from 
the previous mildness of the weather being full of juices and 
tender. We trust that when tho weather changes there will be 
less injury than we imagine, but it will be prudent to sow some 
Lettuce, Cabbage, and Cauliflower in a slight hotbed, or in 
boxes in heated houses, so that any loss may soon be replaced. 
As yet Brussels Sprouts and the different Borecoles have stood 
well. The greater portion of our Savoys were used, but a 
number of heads of good size, though protected by the snow, 
have been injured in the heart, and therefore will be of little 
use. 

We are rather surprised that so many of our cottage gardeners 
seem to have no relish for Borecoles, as Cottagers’ Kale, Scotch 
Cabbaging Kale, and Brussels Sprouts, as they stand the winter 
when Broccoli seems to have a hard fight for it. We hear 
sad complaints amongst our cottager friends, who live in low 
positions, as respects their Broccoli, which they will persist in 
planting largely. True, a fine large Broccoli is a regular fill- 
pot, and is something for a family to come and go on, but when 
you cut the head it is all that you generally get, for we suppose, 
on the same principle, few of our cottegers care about the 
Sprouting Broccoli, which yields such sn amount of proiuce; 
whilst, on the other hand, with Brussels Sprouts and the Kales 
it is cut and come again without end. When once the top is 
gone—and what can be more sweet after tho frost has just 
mollified them a little?—there is no end to the shoots and 
sprouts from the stems. Though for a definite purpose we are 
fond of such Kales as the Scotch Cabbaging and Veitch’s Dwarf, 
yet for a cottage garden we think there is little better than the 
tall Scotch Kale, as the supply from the stems in the spring 
months is next to inexhaustible, and well cooked they are not 
inferior to flavour to the best Broccoli. We so far join with 
Dr. Johnson as to have a high regard for the Cauliflower, but 
frequently we have found young Coleworts excel the most 
compact Cauliflower in delicacy of flavour. 

We shall not have written these few lines in vain, if thou- 
sands more of our cottage gardeners be induced to grow more 
of these hardy vegetables, which nothing but 2 winter close on 
zero seems to kill. We fear that one reason why these hardy 
vegetables do not occupy almost every part of a cottage garden 
in winter is, that so frequently they are so badly cooked as to 
be both unpleasant and unwholesome to the person who eats 
them. With all the good proverties of our English housewives, 
and in some respects we consider them unequalled, we fear 
that, as respects simple cookery, the statements made by a 
French refugee lady in the papers lately have too much truth 
in them. We have not been much in the habit of going to 
great dinners of late, but when we have gone to public, or at 
least large dinners on public occasions, it has often surprised 
us how difficult it was to get a well-cooked Potato; and the 
vegetables were so hard and yellow, that in the summer we 
have been glad to fall back on a little salad, or a simple bit of 
Lettuce, which the artistes in the vegetable department could 
not spoil. It is, therefore, not to be wondered at, that our 
simple lasses in the country do not know how to make the 
most of the hardiest health-imparting vegetables. A few 
lessons from the French lady, or any other lady, would be of 
importance. We fear that in this frosty weather, serious illness 
has been caused by cooking frozen vegetables before they have 
been thoroughly thawed in cold water. In such a condition 
they are next to poison. We know that in some hard limy 
Waters it is not easy to boil vegetables jelly-soft without wast- 
ing them, or to prevent them turning out of a dirty yellow 
instead of a rich green; but even in such water a pinch of 


carbonate of soda will make the vegetables retain their proper 
colour, and the soda would do no harm to anyone. We like 
greens to be served green. Others may have them as yellow as 
they please. 

But for the weather we should be thinking of pntting Peas 
and Beang, and even a few Potatoes into the ground. We must 
forward them under a little protection. We were so far glad 
that we had a store of Sea-kale, Rhubarb, and Asparagus up 
as we could raise none duzing the week, the ground was so 
excessively hard; trenching and digging therefore were quite 
out of the question. These winter vegetables forced, along 
with Mushrooms, help us very much in the winter season, when 
we have less variety out of doors. Their goodness very much 
depends on their texture. 

Mushroom House.—We have made our first bed in our reno- 
vated house, rather lateasit happens. The bed was made chiefly 
of long litter, with a mixture éf droppings, as they came from the 
stable, turned over and watered until if became about half as 
much decomposed as the old gardeners would have required for 
a Cucumber bed. It will soon be fit for spawning, when an 
inch or two of droppings will be added on the surface. A little 
dry turfy soil was added tc help to consolidate it. Before 
commencing, the ceiling was run over with a thin coat of oil 
and anticorrosion paint to prevent condensed moisture resting 
there, and as all the platforms are of wood well seasoned, 
which, with the exception of the spars for the bottom of the 
beds, we shall expect to last at least twenty years, we had the 
whole, with the exception of the spars, coated three times with 
anticorrosion -paint to keep the damp out. If the wood had 
not been so thoroughly dried and well seasoned, we should 
have preferred retaining it in its vatural state, but nicely 
planed. We are quite sure that under some circumstances 
wood will Jast longer unpainted than painted. Painting green 
unseasoned wood is one of the best means of securing premature 
decay from dry rot and internal fermentation. é 

Something would be gained in this direction if the rimple 
fact were more acted upon, that wood will last longer when 
always dry or always damp than when frequently exposed to 
extremes of wetness and dryness: hence it is next to incal- 
culable how long sound piles of wood will remain sound when 
kept several feet below water-level. A good oak post will 
remain sound for many years when kept in a pretty equable state 
as respects moisture under ground—much longer than the bulk 
of the post above ground, subject to greater alternations of heat 
and cold, dryness and wet, and the wasting influence of the air 
on each crack and cranny. But the greatest and the most 
rapid decay takes place close to the surface of the ground, be- 
cause there the greatest extremes of dryness and wet are the 
most frequently experienced. 

We have hinted above that we had our Mushroom heuse 
repaired, and not too soon, as on a cold snowy morning during 
the week we lost the old thatched roof of the old shed from 
which we have obtained large quantities of Mushrooms. We 
fear the beds bearing will have been greatly injured. The roof 
was picturesque enough in its worn-out mossy condition, and 
we felt sory to lose it, and all the more, as we cannot be sure 
es to how. It is Just possible that there might have been a 
live cinder in fresh soot placed there the night previously, but 
if so, nothing was seen until morning, and then, wet as the 
outside of the roof was, it was soon in asmouldering state from 
end to end. It is also possible a spark from a tobacco-pipe in 
dry litter might be the cause. We can never be too careful in 
little matters. We should not like to interfere with the lovers 
of ‘‘ the weed,” but we do know that many smokers are exces- 
sively careless of Iucifers and ‘sparks from their pipes. When 
we haye iton good authority that men will be heedless enough 
of consequences to smoke even in a powder manufactory, we 
need nct be so much surprised that there will be smoke amongst 
combustible materials in farms and gardens. All such care- 
lessness is very reprehensible, and we have no doubt disastrous 
congequences frequently ensue. ‘There aro right times and 
right places for doing most things. There are men who seem 
to have a pleasure in doing a thing just because it is forbidden 
to be done: hence the zest with which a stolen pipe, as it were, 
is smoked because the time and place are strictly forbidden. 
These stolen pipes are the dangerous pipes. There is often 
gross selfish injustice in such practices. We have travelled in 
railways much less of late, but now, since for the accommoda- 
tion of smokers there are smoking carriages, why should 
almost every carriage be tainted with tobacco, to the discomfort 
of those who detest it, whilst the smoking carriages are seldom 
filled? When we went to the great show at Oxford our clothes 


9 
=} 


Or 
He 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULIURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ January 19, 1671. 


were tainted for twenty-four hours. More than half the pas- 
sengers in crowded ordinary carriages smoked heavily the whole 
way, without the slightest apology, whilst we noticed that the 
smoking carriages were not half filled. Now, we will only say, 
that be a smoker a garden labourer or a gentleman, there is 
nothing manly or honourable in smoking in a wrong place. 
A man worthy the name of man would scorn to realise a paltry 
pleasure which he saw to be a cause of discomfort and often 
of injury to others. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

We have done little except in the way of pruning, watering 
a Peach house beginning to push, cleaning and pruning other 
houses, and‘taking more Strawberry plants into a little heat. 
Unfortunately the mice have attacked the buds again, notwith- 
standing all precautions. It is very annoying after getting 
fine plants. Beginners in setting their potted plants in houses 
would act wisely in using no saucers until the flower trusses 
appear strongly. Stagnant water at the bottom at an early 
stage, and saturating the buds with water, make a wreck of 
many a fine Strawberry pot. In moving the plants into houses 
all the old outside leaves may be removed, and a little fresh 
surfacing given. The bottom of the pots should also be exa- 
mined to see that the hole is not clogged up outside, which it 
often will be if the pot has stood on the gravel. All forcing, 
where very early produce is not required, should go on but 
slowly in such weather. Where Peaches happened to be in full 
joloom during the last three weeks, how great must have been 
the disadvantage as to their setting well, with scarcely a blink 
of sun to cheer them! We shall be later with many things 
than usual, owing to changes in the houses—heating, staging, 
Be. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Here, out of doors, the work has chiefly been confined to 
sweeping walks, and pruning Laurels, Ivy hedges, &c., burning 
the mere rubbish, and using and storing the best for protect- 
dug purposes. We have also collected a good store of pea sticks 
and materiel for flower stakes—a matter of importance where 
coverts are sacred grounds in summer—also a good quantity for 
fire-lighting purposes. As we had to move a lot of cut Black 
and White Thorn, we did not care to be troubled with it for 
furnace or other fireplace purposes, so we set fire to a number 
of loads, and turned it quickly into charred refuse, merely 
covering it with damp rubbish to subdue the flame, and clear- 
ing out as soon as charring was effected. In a few hours we 
thus obtained some cartloads of charred rubbish, much not 
wetter than charcoal dust, but there were many little bits 
ranging from } inch to 1 and 1} inch in diameter. For all 
such small wood we find we obtain the greatest quantity of 
charred material by charring and removing it quickly. For 
large wood the old mode of covering up with turf and earth is 
the best, and watching it properly night and day before all the 
heap is charred, allowing no more air to enter than will sup- 
port slow combustion. 

We have prepared places for propagating, potting, &c., yet 


we were disinclined to move plants much in such weather, but: 


if the thaw continues, next week we shall do much in this way. 
Those who are inexperienced have little idea how soon plants 
suffer from great extremes of temperature, even for a short 
time.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


®. G. Henderson & Son, Wellington Road, St. John’s Wood, London, 
N.W.— Catalogue of Vegetable and Agricultural Seeds. 

W. Cutbush & Son, Highgate, London, N.— Catalogue of Vegetable, 
Flower, and Farm Seeds. 

Butler, McCulloch, & Co., Covent Garden Market, London, W.C.— 
Spring Catalogue of Seeds for the Kitchen and Flower Garden, dc. 


Barr & Sugden, 12, King Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C.— | 


Descriptive Spring Catalogue of Choice Seeds for Flower and Kitchen 
Garden, &c. 

George Gibbs & Co., 25 and 26, Down Street, Piccadilly, London, 
W.— Catalogue of Seeds for the Garden and Farm. 

R. Parker, Exotic Nursery, Tooting, Surrey, S.W.—Catalogue of 
Agricultural, Flower, and Vegetable Seeds, &e. 


i 
TO CORRESPONDENTS. 
N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next 
week. 
Mavp.—A letter is at the post office as ‘A, M.” 


Books (R. Atkinson).— The Treasury of Botany ” is in the alphnbetical 
form ; indeed, its second title is ‘‘ a popular Dictionary.” It is the latest. 
The price is 10s. There are nocultural directionsinit. (W.B.).— The 


Cottage Gardeners’ Dictionary,” with Appendix, including new plants to 
the end of 1837, is price 6s. 6d., or post free 7s. 2d. 


alors oF HorticuLtTure (C. 1. MecCrow).—No such reduction is 
made, 


HonrricutturaL Directory (4 Young Head Gardenev).—It will depend 
upon the place you are managing. 

AucuBas ‘J W.K.).—The male is similar in leaf to the female Aucuba 
japonica so lorg known, usually with leaves spotted with yellow, but 
sometimes entirely green. Vera is merely a nurseryman’s addition to the 
name. Picta has leaves with a broad yellow margin. You will find a 
very full descriptive account in vol. xvi., pages 254, 255. 

WaTERPROOFING CALIco (J. D. L.).—The only composition likely to 
render your calico jackets waterproof, is Indianrubber dissolved in 
naptha and then brushed on the calico. A few yards of Mackintosh 


cloth would have been far less trouble, far more sightly, and not much 
more expensive. 


PARALLELOGRAM (4 Subscriber for Many Years).—To erect a perpendicu- 
Jar line, and find point c accurately, is described in fig. 31, page 447. As 
line A Bis 41 feet 4 inches long, and line Bc, 62 feet long, the radii of the 
circles referred to are determined. From the stake at point c, with a line 
41 feet 4 inches long, trace an arc asin point Dp. From the peg at pointa, 
with a line 62 feet long trace an arc cutting the former one; where the 
two arcs cut each other is point D.—M. O‘DonNELL. 


CycLamEns (Welshman).—We cannot recommend any florist; all the 
principal florists can supply what you need if youinform them. (R. McK.). 
—We quite agree with you in highly prizing the Cyclamen as a table 
decoration. You will have seen notes on its general culture in our last 
week’s number. 


EPIPHYLLUM TRUNCATUM FLOWERS DroopinG (F. W.).—We have no 
doubt that their short continuance in flower is due to the temperature ; 
we would move them to the cooler house whilst flowering, and for twelve 
months after flowering keep them in the warmer house, removing them 
only when in flower. When they begin to grow they require a rather 
moist atmosphere, and should have copious waterings at the root, but 
avoid in all stages keeping the soil in a saturated condition. When the 
growth is over, it is sufficient if the soil be kept moist enough for the 
stems to remain fresh. We do not recognise the plant from the part sent, 
flowers are necessary. 


SNOWDROPS AFTER FLOWERING (Arthenice).—The plants would be better 
of a light airy position free from frost, and should be kept in a cold 
frame until they have been hardened off, and then they should be 
planted out in the open ground. This is a better plan than allowing 
the bulbs to ripen in pots, They are of no use for flowering again in 
pots, but are very useful for borders. 


BERBERRY AND ALMOND PLANTING (Idem).—Both may safely be planted 
from the present time up to April in mild weather, but the earlier it is 
done the better. 


CENTAUREA CANDIDISSIMA (RAGUSINA), IRESINE HERBSTII, AND GOLDEN 
FEVERFEW SOWING (James S.).—Sow the seeds of all early in March, in 
pans filled with a compost of two parts turfy loam, one part sandy peat, 
and one part leaf soil, with a free admixture of sand. The pans should 
be well drained, and the surface of the soil made even and fine. Scatter 
the seeds regularly, and just cover them with fine soil. Water gently and 
place the pans in a hotbed of from 70° to 75>, and a top heat of 55° to 75°, 
keeping them near the glass and the soil moist, but not very wet. Con- 
tinue the plants in the hotbed after they appear, keeping them near the 
glass and affording them plenty of air, so as to prevent them from draw- 
ing up. When large enough to handle pot-off the Centaurea and Iresine 
singly in small pots, and the Golden Feverfew in pans, placing the plants 
about an inch apart; return them to the hotbed, shade for a few days, 
harden-off when established, and remove to a cold frame but protecting 
from frost. They will be nice plants by the beginning of June. 


PLANTS FOR SHADY BorDER (Wm. R. H.)—Ajuga reptans rubra, 
Glechoma hederacea foliis variegatis, Nierembergia rivularis, Sedum 
anglicum, Saxifraga umbrosa, and Vinca elegantissima, which, though it 
grows taller than you wish, is very ornamental. 

TEA Roses For Forcine (A Lady Reader).—It is in our opinion better 
to plunge the Roses in their pots if wanted for winter forcing, rather than 
to take them out of their pots and plant them in the ground. We should 
recommend shifting them into larger pots previous to their being plunged, 
so as not to have to disturb the roots in repotting when they are brought 
in forforcing. Put good drainage, and stand the pots in the ground on 
inverted saucers or slate to keep the worms out. Place them in cold 
frames as soon as winter frosts set in, and bring them into a light double- 
span house when they are wanted for blooming, being careful not to force 
too rapidly at first. They do not require bottom heat, which often causes 
mildew. The best bottom heat they can have is to be set on open wooden 
staging with hot-water pipes under. 

TROPEOLUM JARRATTI AND TRICOLORUM CULTURE (Farmer).—The tubers 
should be potted in September, or before they begin to grow, in a com- 
post of light fibrous loam, sandy peat, and leaf soilin equal parts, witha 
free admixture of sharp sand. Good drainage is necessary, and in potting 
it is well to place the tuber on silver sand. Pot so that it shall be covered 
with soil. Water so as to keep the soil sufliciently moist, and place the 


| pots in the greenhouse in a light airy position. The shoots will need a 


trellis or other support. 


GERANIUM LEAVES GornG oFF (H. 4. B.).—The leaves sent us haya 
the appearance of suffering from damp accompanied with cold. Could 
you not give them a more light and airy position with an increase of 
temperature? Is there much manure in the compost used for potting, 
and is the watering no more than suflicient to keep the foliage from 
flagging? : 

MusHrRooms IN A CELLAR (A Subscriber).—In our number published 
last 6th of October there are full directions. They are too long to reprint. 
You can hayea copy if you enclose four postage stamps with youraddress, 


Fruit TREES LAD IN (J. J. H.).—Your several hundred fruit trees 
laid in the ground will not be injured by the severe weather, if they have 
not been kept in bundles so that the frost could reach the roots from 
these being insufficiently covered with soil. We advise you to spread some 
dry litter over them, and leaye them covered-up until the ground is 
thoroughly thawed. We think they will be quite safe. The ‘ Botanical 


January 19, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


Magazine” is published in monthly parts, price 8s.6d. It may be ob- 
tained through any bookseller. 

CISTERN IN GREENHOUSE (Subseiiber).—It will benefit rather than de- 
teriorate the air in the house. 

DracmNsa LEAves BrowneED (LE. C., Kent)—The Dracena leaf seems 
as if it had had a chill, or been scorched by the sun when damp; but 
Draczena leaves, just like those of evergreens, do not last always, but a 
few are lost every year. 

RaIsiInG VINES From Hyves (A Beginner).—The eyes can be struck in a 
Cucumber frame, where the pots may be plunged in a bottom heat of 75°, 
and a corresponding top heat. The eyes may remzin until they have 
not room enough, and should then be moved to a house where they can 
havea brisk bottom heat and a moist top heat, potting as required. 
Train the canes from 12 to 16 inches from the glass, and far enough apart 
to allow them room to develope their foliage. It is not likely if grown 
with Cucumbers that they would form canes of suflicient strength for 
fruiting next year, for under such circumstances it is hardly possible to 
give them the light and air they require to form strong well-ripened 
canes. 

Porators (G. d4.).—Messrs. Barr & Sugden advertise Thomas Almond’s 
Yorkshire Hero, and also Rintoul’s New Early White Don, but we do not 
observe Transell’s Seedling down in their present list. 

PoTsaTors For SEED, AND FrRosTeD (fi. S.).—Neither unripe, nor badly 
grown, nor small Potatoes will do well for planting; in fact, I prefer unripe 
tubers as seed, and of course the smaller they are the nearer they should 
be set together, and the closer the rows should be. Thoroughly frosted 
Potatoes will now be perfectly soft, and the sooner they are separated 
from those which remain firm, and are cast away, the better. Then the 
tubers which are firm had best be spread thinly, without touching each 
other, on a dry floor or upon boards, and be allowed to remain there till 
they show signs of vegetating, and in that case they will certainly do for 
seed; but should they show no sign of pushing by a month or two hence, 
let them be boiled down for the pigs, or otherwise used in the household 
by those who do not obj-ct to discoloured or sweet-tasting Potatoes. The 
unripe, uglies, and the little ones had better undergo the spreading 
process in a dry twilight shed, or somewhere secure from frost, and when 
their shoots are tolerably prominent, scoop away the inferior “ sprits,” 
leaving one or two of the strongest eyes from each tuber according to 
their size, and that will prove a means to secure a much finer and more 
even crop. This practice is more to be regarded than early planting. 
—R. FENN. 

HEATING A VERY SMALL PropaGatinG HousE (Novice).—We think that 
heating by a tank in a house 10 feet by 9 feet, and heating by piping, are 
both good. Were we, as you propose, to heat the small propagating 


house by means of a conical boiler, we would prefer having on each side | 


| Mr, R, W. Alldridge, of Old Charlton, Kent, the author of the 


a bed 8} feet, a pathway of 2 feet, two 38-inch pipes covered with rubble 
under each bed, and two 2-inch ripes all round for top heat. 


CoveR FOR HEATED Tank (Calcaria).—Perforated zine will do very | 


well for covering your tank, provided the waterin the tank is rarely 
above 17°. Slate covered with cocoa fibre refuse, if you keep the bottom 
of the cocoa fibre damp. 
not rise freely throughit. It looks cleanly on the top, and the heat given 
to the bottom of the pot is prevented escaping. Clean ashes or sani 
answer very well in such circumstances, as all the heat comes from the 
slate. Even in their case, though it may often be advisable to keep the 
surface rather dry, that next the slate should be moist, which is very 
easily managed. 

ProposeD Hot-WATER PIPING (R. J. B.).—We prefer No. 1, with three 
flows and one return. 

CucumBER House (T. M., Rochdale).—You do not tell us whether your 
house is to be a Jean-tv or span-roofed. As it is to be 12 feet by S fect 
inside measure if it be span-roofed, we would have a bed of 2 feet 
9 inches on each side and a pathway down the centre. Ifa lean-to, a bed 
of from 3 to 4 feet wide in front would do, and there might be narrow 
shelves on the back wall for pricking out seedlings, &c. In either case, 
for early work you would need two 4-inch pipes below the bed and two 
pipes all round for top heat—that is to say, to work in the dead of winter. 
A small boiler would therefore be necessary, but, as often stated, it is 
always expensive to heat a small place with hot water; butif you regulate 
the firing by well attending to draught as lately stated, you will minimise 
the loss of heat by the chimney. If we hid to heat such a place for 
Cucumbers that we did not commence with until the first or second 
month of the year, we would, in the case of a lean-to house, take a stout 
fine all round except the doorway, enclose the flue in front of the house 
for a bed to be placed over it, and leave the back flue exposed for top 
heat. If you give more particulars we may be able to do better for 
you. 

CONVERTING A BUILDING INTO AN IcE House (Young).—By your pro- 
posed plan you would so lessen the size of the house if you built the wall 
inside, that the house would be little more than 10 feet by 6 feet inside. 
Now it is 12 feet by 9 feet. Were we to make that house into an ice 
house we would leave it of that size, and sink the floor inside not 3 feet, 
but 6 or 9 feet, build another wall outside the present house 9 inches from 
the other, leaving the space between airtight—pretty well as good as 
stuffing the space with straw or sawdust—and then have a roof of 18 inches 
of thatch over the present tile roof, and the eaves reaching beyond the 
outer wall, which outer wall we would cover with as light a colour as 
possible. 

UnriLisinc Housr SewaceE (A. B. G.)—We mix the entire sewage of 
the house by letting it run into a tank, and we apply it in spring and 
summer by means of a pump, either by hose or bucketsful, to Asparagus, 
Rhubarb, Cabbageworts, Onions, &c., having gutters made purposely 
petween the rows. In winter, if needed, it may be poured over vacant 
ground. > 


NaMeE oF FRuIT (Joseph Burgess).—Hollandbury. 


Names or Prants (J. Wills).—Physalis Alkekengi. We did not know, 
until shown by its effect on your writing, that the juice of the fruit totally 
obliterates ink, (James)—We cannot name plants from their leaves only. 
(R. Giddings).—1, Dendrobium Gibsoni; 2, Cyrtochilum leucochilum. 
(J. J , Romsey).—Nephrodium molle. (A. S. B., Norfolk).—ischynanthus 
Paxtoni. (J. M).—The Oncid is O, barbatum. The other we do not yet 
recognise. ¢ 


When it becomes thoroughly dry the heat will | 


POULTRY, BE, 


AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


INQUIRY. 

In reply to Mr. Preston’s inquiry on January 5th, I beg to 
state that at the beginning of October I sold George White, 
147, Culford Road, Islington, about fifteen fowls, for which he 
agreed to give me £3 18s. He acknowledged their arrival, and 
said he would write again soon. Hearing nothing further, I 
wrote again, when he replied he had mislaid the invoice, and 
asked for another, which was sent. Afterwards I wrote for the 
money several times, generally receiving no answer. At last 
‘Rogers ” wrote, saying Mr. White was in Scotland, and would 
not return till December 14th, when my letter should be at- 
tended to. Since this date I have written three times on the 
subject, and received no reply. My last letter was returned, 
saying he had gone away. Seeing your inquiry, I forward this 
statement as a warning to others.—C. B. 


“STANDARD’S” CORRESPONDENT ON 
CARRIER PIGEONS. 


I nave thought proper to draw your attention to an article 
on the Antwerp or Belgian Pigeon which has appeared in the 
Standard newspaper, Tuesday, December 27th, and I believe 
there is a second article by the same person in a more recent 
copy of the Standard, which I have not yet seen.—R. W. 


[In reply to ‘*R. W.,” I beg to state that I have read both 
the letters in the Standard. I was glad that such letters 
should appear in a widely-read daily newspaper, because the 
wonderful powers and utility of the messenger Pigeons would 
thus come before the notice of many who are wholly or partly - 
ignorant of such birds, reaching thousands of persons who are 
entirely out of the range of the fancy and its special organs. 


THE 


letters, wrote them, I have no doubt, with a good motive, but 
they are not free from error, and a part of his second letter is 
certainly not written in good taste, and reflects in harsh, and 
Ican venture to say, untruthful terms (doubtless from igno- 
yance) upon Pigeon-fanciers. Speaking of the English fancy 
Carriers, the high-class birds, he says they will not bring up 
their young; this is a mistake, for they, as all fanciers know, 
are excellent parents. Mr. Alldridge also errs in regard to 
first-class homing birds being worth only 1s. each. He is also 
in error as to the preference given by him to young birds, in 
one case of actually nine weeks old, over birds of mature age. 
His preference of hens over cocks is also, I think, an error, 
as well as his objection to using birds while breeding. 

But there isa passage in Mr. Alldridge’s second letter which 
I particularly wish to notice; it is this—‘ For those who care 
to know all about Pouters, Fantails, and such-like useless 
fancy kinds—kinds I again strongly advise your readers to have 
nothing to do with, for I presume I am not addressing members 
of the ‘ fancy,’ or subscribers to some Pigeon club, held at the 
Pig and Whistle, somewhere—for such persons there are books 
published, which they can peruse, and, possibly, derive great 
satisfaction therefrom. I have never read one, and have not 
the least intention of doing so, as I am not a ‘ Pigeon-fancier ’ 
in the usually accepted sense of that term, or a Pigeon-dealer.”’ 
Now, I do not in the least know what position in life Mr. All- 
dridge occupies, but I can assure him that I, as a clergyman 
and rector of a parish, and an ardent Pigeon-fancier for life, 
know the principal fanciers in England, Scotland, and Ireland, 
and that his sneer at the fancy is wholly misplaced. Very 
frequently —indeed, it is almost a law in human nature, 
people most strongly condemn what they least understand. 
Mr. Alldridge says he has never read books on fancy Pigeons 
(L possess nearly a dozen, and some very high-priced ones), 
and most certainly he does not know Pigeon-fanciers. As to 
the ‘‘ Pig and Whistle,” I remember being present two years 
since at the annual dinner—rather banquet, of tha North 
British Columbarian Society, held at the Hanover Hotel, Glas- 
zow, where the company consisted of gentlemen of private 
fortune, officers, merchants, and men of large means and good 
position. After dinner a handsome piece of plate was pre- 
sented to the President, and really—really Mr. Alldridge, the 
whole affair was not of the ‘‘ Pig and Whistle” kind. Then I 
received a card of invitation to the dinner of the National 
Peristeronie Society, held at the dining-room of the Crystal 
Palace. Mr, Alldridge may call the Crystal Palace ‘‘ The Pig 


56 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 19, 1871. 


. 


and Whistle,” but Ido not. Indeed, his sneer is wonderfully 
misplaced. Ladies of title and gentlemen of position are 
among our Pigeon-fanciers and exhibitors, as any reader of 
this Journal knows. The od@ thing is that, after many years’ 
experiences and knowledge of the fancy, the only low-class 
fanciers I have ever known are some of the fanciers of flying 
Pigeons. There’ a isang who keep them, Dragoons, 
Skinnums, exud Antwerps, and welk out on Sundays to fly their 
birds. I know the scamps well enough; pipe in mouth, oath 
on lips, betting money in pocket, workday clothes on, out they 
walk to spend their Sunday, not at church, but at—'t The Pig 
and Whi ” Qa the other hand, those who keep high-class 
fancy Pigeons—Pouters, Carriers, Fantails, &., usually have 
them, as I do, for ornaments of a garden and pets for the 
family. Pigeon culture and Pigeon books are not among things 
to be despised, though Mr. Alldridge appears to think so, yet 
he may see how highly men of the calibre of Charles Darwin 
regard them; vide his work on ‘‘ Animals and Plants under 
Domestication.” 

Altbough the fancy for homing Pigeons has been much in 
the hands of the lowest class of fanciers, yet I hope even those 
given to the culture of the high-class varieties will adopt Ant- 
werps for nurses of their Pouters, and that as a means of 
national defence as well as pleasure this vaviety will be very 
extensively bred. 

One word more on ihe mistakes of general writers in regard 
to Pigeons, In an edition of ‘‘ Buffon’s Natural History,”’ 
publi-hed by Warne in 1869, and ‘ modernised from the most 
recent authorities,’ now lying before me, L read at page 184, 
“The tame Pigeon and all its beautiful varieties is said to 
derive its origin from the Stock Dove, implying its being the 
stock or stem whence ihe other domestic kinds have been pro- 
pagated.” This antiquated mistake ought not to have again 
appeared. Then in Ail the Year Round of November last, in 
au article entitled ‘‘ Messengers Aloft,” the wri'er tells us 
that ‘the written paper is fastened under the Carvier’s wing.” 
There exe also other gross blunders in the same paper. 

In regard to Mr. Alldridge’s letters, I again say that Iam 
glad they have appeared, for both poultry and Pigeons ought 
to be kept, as the present war proves to us, in far greater num- 
bers than at present. I press, therefore, upon fanciers to 
Spread all they can among people generally the utility of 
homing Pigeons.—WiutsHirE Recror. | 


ar 


NENTHEAD POULTRY, PIGEON, AND BIRD 
SHOW. 


Tuts was held in the new school rooms on the 13th inst. The 
buildings are admirably adapted for the purpose of a poultry show, 
being well lighted and very spacious. All the arrangements were very 
good, and the Secretaries did all they could to add to the comfort of 
the birds under their care. Mr. James Dixon, of Bradford, acted as 
Judge. S 

The first class was Black and other Red Game. This was the best 
class in the Show, and out of the ten pens five were highly commended ; 
the cup for the best pen in the Show also went to this class, and was 
won by Mr. W. Walton, who took the second prize as well. The cup 
pen, we learnt, had been successful at several large shows previously. 
The chicken class contained some very good birds; Mr. Thomas 
Brown’s were capitsl pens. The Duckwings were all that could be 
wished for as regards quality, but the entries were small. The Ham- 
burgh classes were not good, and none of the birds shown would have 
had any chance of winning at one of our large shows. The two first- 

‘prize Spanish peus were good, but the rest in the two classes very 
middling. There were only seven pens of olands; the prize pens 
were good, also the highly commended and commended pens. The 
Game Bantams were of medium quality, and only eleven pens were 
shown. The class for a pair of hens of any breed contained some 
first-class birds; the first prize went to Game and the second to 
Spanish, and three pens were highly commended. ' 

The Pigeons were for the most part of only medium quality, and as 
there were only four classes, the entries were not numerons. 

Of Cage Birds there was a good collection, divided into twelve 
classes. ‘The eup for the best bird in the Show was awarded to a very 
good Belgian Canary, belonging to Mr. R. Walton, who also took the 
Second prize in the same class, besides several other prizes in the 
Marked classes. 

Gane.—Blachk-breasted and other Reds.— Cup and 2, W. Walton, Cocklake: 
he, J. Morton, Marley Till; T. Brown (2); T. Henderson. Craig Nook; W. 


Liverick, Nenthend. Chichkens.—1 and 2, T. Brown. he, J. Walton, Annatwall ; 
T. Bown. Any other Varicty._l, T. Brown. 2, W. Walton. Chickens.—1l and 


Hampurcus. — Golden-spangied.—1, J. Todd, White Lee. 2, J. Morton. 
Golden-pencilled.—2, J. Stephenson, High Honse. 

p Ponts 

1, J. Hil ens.—l, J. 


G. Millican; Alston. 8, Walton & Rutherford. Stlver-pencilled.—2, J. Stephen- 


ton & Rutherford. Chickens.—1, W. Bear 
Nenthead. he, J. Hilton. 
2, Dell & Burn, Alston. Chickens—1, H. 


BY 2, W. Bearpark. he, P. Swindle. c, RB. & W. 


Gsm Bantsus.—l, F. Clementso: 2 W.d- art: Darlingt ickens. 
iW Wilkinson 3 son. ‘ J. Stewart, Darlington. Chickens 


Donrxixes.—1, W. We 
park, Ainderby Stce; 
SPANISH.—1, B. \\ 


on. 


ge, Nenthead. Hens 
ead; W. Bearpsark; Wi 


, P. Swindle. 
ton & Ruther- 


land 2, J. Guthrie, Wexham, Carriers.—tl and 2, J. 
; Tumble 1, J. Guthrie. 2, R.& W. Walton. Any other Variety.— 
1, J. Guihrie, 2, W. R. Little, Alston. 

RaBpits.—2, W. Hewitson, Weardale. 


. CAGE BIRDS. 

Canaries.—Belgian.—Cup and 2, R. & W. Walton. Golden and Silver- 
spangled Lizard.—2, J. Guthrie. Yellow.—i, R. Walton. 2, W.J. Stewart 
Buf—1, J. Robson, Nenthead. 2, J. Dickinson. Yellow-marzxed.—i, R. Walton. 
2, W. Hetherington. Bug-marked.—l, W. J. Stewart, Darlingion. 2 and he, 
R. Walton. Gree J. Guthrie, Hexham. 2, J. Ritson, Alston. Dun.— 
1,J. Stephenson. 2, W.Spark. Best Couple.—l, R. & W. Walton. 2, Tatters 


and Swindle, 
2, W. Walton. Bfule.—1,J. Hind. 2, J. Bayne. 


GotprFinca.—l, J, Guthrie. 
BULtFinca.—1 and 2, J. Stephenson. 


CORK POULTRY SHOW. 


Tue annual Exhibition of poultry, Pigeons, and Cage birds was 
held on the 4th inst. in the Atheneum, and was on the whole a complete 
success. The entire collection far exceeded that of any former year. 
The collection of Pigeons, although not so numerous as in previous 
years, was select, and of the highest quality. However, there was 2 
great falling-ofi in the Cage birds, there being comparatively few ex- 
hibited. The following is a list of the prizes :-— 


SPANISH.—1 and 2, R. P. Williams. he, Lady A. Lloyd; J.C. Cooper. c, Mrs. 
Hay; J. C. Cooper. 

Dorgincs.—Grey —1, R. P. Williams. 2ande,J.C.Cooper. Chickens.—1,J. 
C. Cooper. 2, T. O’Grady. hc, Mrs. Taaffe. c, Capt. Dowman. Coloured.—l,J- 
prCooper: 2, he, and c,Mrs. Hay. TWhite—}, Countess of Bandon. 2, Miss 

ry. 

BranMas —Dark.—l, G. A. Stephens. 2.J.C. Cooper. c, Lady A. Lloyd; T. 
Babinston; J.C. Cooper. Light—1l, Capt.Dowman. 2,H.L.Tivey,sen. ¢, 
Capt. Dowman rs. Hay. 

Cocuins.—Buf—l and Extra 2, Mrs. Hay. 2, W.H. Perrin. he,J. Dowling. 
c, Mas. Taaffe; W. H. Perrin. Partridge.—i, R. P. Williams. 2 and he, Mrs. 
Taaffe, c, J. Topp. Any other Variety. —1 and Extra 2, Mrs. Taaffe. 2 and vic, 
Col. F. C, Hassard. Young.—Cup, Mrs. Hay. vhe, H. Perrin. he, W. G- 
Mulligan. 

Hovpans.—l, J.C. Cooper. 2, Mrs. Clay. c, J.C. Cooper; E. J. Poer. y 

CREYE-CEUR oR La FLECHE.—1, W. C. Pickering. 2, Viscountess Doneraile 
(La Fléche). he, G. A. Stephens (La Fléche). c, C. Carleton (Gree Cent: 

5 uRGHS.—Spangled.—l, Countess of Bandon. Pencilled.—i and he, T- 
O'Grady. 2, Countess of Bandon. 

PouisH.—1 and 2, R. P. Wiliams. c, J. K. Milner; E. Hobbs. 

GamE.—Red.—l, G. A. Perrin. 2, P. Ducrow. he, EB. J. Poer: T. O’Grady- 
ce, Mrs, Taaffe. Any other Variety—l and c, G. A. Perrin. 2, W.Jdohnstone- 
he, M. Cramer. 

Bantaus.—Red_Game.—i, T. O'Grady. 3, G. A. Peprin. c, N. E. Wallace; 
Base Heke 3 Col. F.C. Hassard. Any otker Variety.—l and c, P. Ducrow. 2, T- 

tady. 

Bantams.—Any other Variety—1, L. F. Perrin. 9, G. A. Stephens. 

Tunnzys.—l, J. C. Cooper. 2, W.0.Hamilton. Poults—1i, J.C. Cooper. 2, 
Countess of Bandon. he, W.C. Hamilton. c, T. O'Grady. 

GEESE —Toulouse.—l, J. C. Cooper. 2, R. P. Williams. he, P.Ducrow; W. 
H. Perrin. Any other Variety—1, J. C. Cooper. 

Ducks.—Rouven.—1, R. P. Williams. 2, R. W. Boyle. 
Aylesbury.—1 and he, R. P. Williams. 2, L. F. Perrin. 
1, Countess of Bandon. 2. J.C. Cooper. cr. 

SELLING Cuass.—l, J. Jeffries (Cochins). 2, Capt. Dowman (Silver-spangled 
Hamburghs). c, Lady A. Lloyd (Silver-pencilled); Mrs. O'Callaghan; Mrs. 
Taaffe; P. Ducrow (White Cochins); Mrs. Marmion (Spanish); J. Dowling 
(Spanish); J. Hosford (Dorkings); Mrs. Murphy (Polish); Capt. Dowman (2), 

PIGEONS. 

Pouters.—Black o7 Blue.—Cocks.—1, J. Lloyd (Blue). 2, J. H. Perrott. 
Hens.—1, J. H. Perrott. 2, F. W. Zurhorst. 2 

PoutErs.—Any other Colowr.—Cocks.—1, F. W. Zurhorst (White). 2 and 
he, J. Lloyd (Mealy). c,J.K. Milner; J. H. Perrott. Hens.—l, J. H. Perrott. 
2, F. W. Zurhorst (White). c, J. K. Milner (Red); J. K. M‘Donnell. 

Carriers.—Black.—l,R.W.Smith. 2and he, J. Jeffries. c, FW. Zurhorst. 
Any other Colowr.—i ana 2, J. Jeffries. 3 e 

Banps.—Black.—1 and hc, J. Dowling. 2, J. Jeffries. c, R. W. Smith; J. 
Jeffries. Red or Dun—1 and 2, J. Dowling. he, J. Lioyd (Red), Yellow or 
other Colour.—l, J. Jeffries (Yellow). 2and he, J. Dowling (\ellow). c, W.H. 
Bennett (Yellow). 5 iS x 

Owizs.—Blue—l, W. Johnsen. 2,J. M‘Donnell. /ic, J. Jeflvies; H.L. Tivy, 
jun.«c, H. L. Tivy, jun. Any other Colour—i, J. Dowling (White). 2, With- 
held. 

TRUMPETERS.—1, J. H. Perrott. 2, R. W. Smith. he, J. H. Perrott; H. L. 


ivy. c, H. L. Tivy. : : 
Senet T. O'Grady. 2,R. W. Smith. he, J. Dowling. c,J. K,. Millner 


F. W. Zuvhorst. ; 

Fantarus.—l, T. Martin. 2, MasterR.A.Blennerhassett. c, T. Martin; J. I. 
Blennerhassett; HK. W. Smith. 

Nwns.—l and 2, J. Dowling. . 

TurBits.—l, J. Dowling. 2, H.L. Tivy. c, F. W. Zurhborst; J. Dowling; H. 
L. Tivy. 
Sih T. O'Grady. 2,J.M‘Donnell. hic, R. W. Smith, 

TumsBbErs.—Short-faced.—l, F. W. Zurhorst. 2, Master R. A. Blennerhassett. 
Common.—1 and 2, J, H. Perrott. k 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—1, F. W. Zurhorst (Runts). 2, J. Dowling (Blue 
Dragoons). /ic, J. K, Millner, c, F. W. Zurhorst (Ice); R. W. Smith (Spots). 

SELLING Cuass.—l, J. Jefiries (Barbs). 2, J. K. Milner. hic, H. L. Tivy 
Black Barbs); J. Jeffries (Barbs) (2); T. Martin (White Pantails); F. W. Zor- 
horst (White Trumpeters). c, W. H. Bennett (Yellow Barbs and d or Dun); 
R. W. Smith (White Fantails and Yellow Owls); J. Perry (Nuns); BF. W. Zur- 
korst (White Dragoons); H. L. Tivy. = 

Best}(THREE Varrs OF JACOBINS, NUNS, AND TeRnITS.—Medal, and_s, J, 
Dowling. 2,J.M‘Donnell 

CAGE BIRDS. 


won BED 
CANARIES.—1 atte T.Babington. 2,3. Hosford. c,J. Heap, 
BULLFINCHES.—1, Countess of Bandon. 2, Miss M. Doyling. 
GoLDFINCHES.—1, J. Dowling, jun. 2, P. Keating. 
Lrynets.—1 and 2, P. Keating. /ic and ¢, J. Dowling. 
TuRUSHES.—1, J. A. Ros" 


a 


vhe, J. C. Cooper. 
Any other Variety.— 


a oe 


Januury 19, 1871. ] 


Skytarrs.—l, M. Daly. 2and he, D. Higgins. 
ANY OTHER VARIETY.—1, J. Hosford. 2, Capt. Stuart, R.N. 
Beamish. c, J. Lloyd. 


he, Miss D. 


THE NEW YORK POULTRY SHOW. 


We have received the prize list of this Show, which commenced on 
December 14th, and by it we find that the whole of the President’s 
special prizes for European Poultry were carried off by exhibitors from 
Great Britain ; the great gold medal being taken by Mr. J. C. Cooper, 
of Limerick; the gold medal by Mr. H. Beldon, of Bingley; and the 
silver medal by Mr. J. C. Cryer, of Southport. 

Mr. Cooper has also taken the American Agriculturist prize for the 
best Dark Brahmas, with six of their chickens ; Mr. Leavitt's silver cup 
for the best pair of Buff Cochins; and in the general prize list is third 
for Buff and Lemon Cochins, second and third for Dorkings, second 
_ for Silver-Grey Dorkings, first for Black-breasted Red Game, third for 

Brown-breasted Red Game, second for Black Spanish, fourth for Créve- 
Cours, second for La Fléche, first for Sultans in the Miscellaneous 
Class, first for Toulouse Geese, first for Sebastopol Geese, third for 
Rouen Ducks, third for Aylesbury Ducks, and first for Mandarin Ducks. 

Mr. Beldon, in addition to the special gold medal, took a special 
prize for the best collection of Hamburghs, was fourth for Dorking 
chickens, commended for Duckwing Game, first for Black Spanish, 
first for Golden-spangled and Silver-spangled Hamburghs, first for 
Golden-pencilled and Black Hamburgh chickens, first for Black 
African Bantam chickens, and first for Helmet, Turbit, Magpie, Fan- 
tail, Antwerp, and Jacobin Pigeons. = 

Mr. J. H. Cryer, in addition to taking the special silver medal, was 
first for Spanish chickens, Black Polish, and Silver Polish; second 
for Golden-pencilled Hamburgh chickens, first for Silver-pencilled 
Hamburgh chickens, second and third for Black Red Game Bantams, 
first for Duckwing Game Bantam chickens, first for Red-lezged Par- 
tridges, first and second for Labrador Geese, first for Grey Call 
Ducks; first for Carrier cock, and second for Jacobin Pigeons. 


BRECON POULTRY SHOW. 


I sw Secretary to the Breconshire Agricultural Society. At a 
special meeting of the members of that Society held on the 28th May 
last, to consider the desirability of establishing a show in connection 
with the annual show, it was decided to grant the sum of £10 to the 
committee of the poultry show, upon the distinct understanding that 
no further liability rested with the Agricultural Society. Mr. D. 
Thomas, jun., and Mr. Phillips, both solicitors at Brecon, were the self- 
constituted committee of the poultry show, and as such attended the 
meeting of the members of the Agricultural Society. By their desire 
L acted as secretary to the poultry show, in which capacity I received 
a large portion of the entry fees, and duly registered them in the entry 
book. On the 16th of September last, a few days before the show, 
Mr; Thomas borrowed the entry book from me, and I have not been 
able to get it back, although I have repeatedly asked for it. Messrs. 
Thomas & Phillips themselves entered a number of fowls for compe- 
tition; the former paid me his fees, and gave me the proper entry 
forms, but the latter did neither. They have now, or ought to have (for 
I maintain that the prizes should be the first charges upon the funds), 
the monies which were taken at the gates on the show days. Lord 
‘Tredegar, The Hon. Godfrey Morgan, and Lord Hyde were patrons, 
and of course subscribed to the funds; but as I have not received any- 
thing from them, I presume the committee have. None of the prizes, 
that IT am aware, have been paid. Iam being threatened with pro- 
ceedings to recover the prizes awarded, but I have not sufficient money 
in my hands to enable me to pay, or I would gladly do so; and the 
committee will not hand over to me any of the monies in their hands, 
although they have recently received the £10 from the Agricultural 
Society. 

I am of opinion that, considering all the circumstances, all the 
monies should be paid over to me as secretary ; but still I haye offered 
to hand to Messrs. Thomas & Phillips all the monies in my hands 
if they will produce to me the entry book, showing and marking what 
entries I have received, which they have not yet done, and I cannot 
think that under the circumstances I should be justified in handing 
the monies now in my hands to them.» Seeing that they haye, or 
could have if not paid, the several subscriptions, the fees for the entry 
of Mr. Phillips’ fowls, the takings at the gates, and the £10 from the 
Agricultural Society, I make out the funds in connection with the 
poultry show to be ample to pay all prizes and expenses, and leave a 
small suxplus. Therefore, why the committee should thus throw 
obstacles in the way of settling the various claims I cannot explain ; 
perhaps they will be good enough to do so. 

Thinking this explanation due as well to the public as to the several 
subscribers and those persons who obtained prizes, I trust you will 
give it publicity in your next paper.—W. M. Brien, 


THE YORK RABBIT SHOW. 


Your correspondent “J.B.” has often written to me of his trials 
as a Rabbit exhibitor, and he also wrote after our Show was over, 
thanking me for my attention to the Rabbits, stating how well his 
stock looked when they arrived home, and I really think he misht 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. ASL 


| have adopted the same course, and dropped mo », line in a friendly 


way, instead of occupying space in your valuable Journal. After the 
judging was over my man (himself a Rabbit-fancier of thirty years’ 
experience) said, ‘‘ Some one haz sent his Himalayan Rabbits in a 
fine box, well divided, and has actually put a pair of Rabbits into one 
compartment.” I asked him to poiat me out the pen, but he was un- 
able to do so on account of the multitude of hampers and boxes he 
had had through his hands. Probably it was “J. B.,” who must 
remember we are all liable to mistakes, that had put a pair of Rabbits 
together in one compartment in packing them off to York. I have 
heard it said that the most careful men often make the most mistakes. 
That is the only way I can account for the disaster. I now say this, 
and say it emphatically, that no pair of Rabbits were ever put together, 
or ever broke through the partition, for that was impossible at the 
York Show. Every possible precaution that man could devise was 
used to guard against any accident of this kind. If the doo has had 
young ones {and I do not doubt it) it is no fault of mine. The Rab- 
bits were never handled but by Mr. Rayson, the Judge, and the packers. 
“J.B.” says she kindled on January 6th; she arrived at York on 
December 5th, so that just accounts for it. “J.B.” in his careful 
haste put both the Rabbits together.—M. Miniineron, York. 


BIRMINGHAM TUMBLERS. 


‘READER’ informs us we have omitted to mention two peculiarities 
in the Muffed Tumblers. We omitied them because they are not 
worth mentioning, and the birds can be bought at any cage or Pigeon 
shop for 10s. per dozen. True itis that some fanciers who devote their 
whole regard to flying and working birds, consider they obtain better 
birds by pairing any colour, or muffed and clear-legged birds together, 
and so they do; but these men are as jealous of the pedigree of their 
birds as one who breeds the highest-class fancy varieties. Many of 
them have had the breed or strain their birds come from for years. 
Do not suppose we mean they have heen inbred for that time, for it is 
pairing wide in feather and family that gives them strength and vigour 
for their wonderful performance. To seo a kit of this kind would 
astonish and gratifyeven one who had a distaste for Pigeons—they must 
be seen to be understood. These men obtain their cross from fellow 
fanciers who have been equally careful not to admit any bird without 
knowing his pedigree. But still the birds are worthless for feather, 
and their owners even have a prejudice against pretty birds, and a 
prejudice it really is, for to our knowledge some of the handsomest 
breed the best working young ones; we have seen them roll and 
mad tumble in the superlative degree; indeed, the only thing to fear 
in the majority of the dark-winged varieties is, that they may be too 
good, and yet at the present time they are long-muffed, and would 
never break without crossing with a clear-legged bird. 

What ‘‘Reaprr” means by hazel eyes we do not know, it is a 
colour we have not seen, but that there are no hazel-eyed Pigeons we 
are suro. The origin of the black or bull eye, which we suppose he 
means, on the white-winged Tumblers, would be as profitable to 
pursue as the origin of the white ramp on the Blue Rock. They may 
come from Holland, Germany, or elsewhere, but we will get rid of 
them as soon as we can. 

We do not disapprove of young England's favourites, but think it 
far wiser to improve the Muffed Tumblers, to bring them in size and 
shape to his standard, than to anathematise them as some do. We 
know of some as small, as compact, as good-carriaged birds as any of 
old England’s or young HEngland’s Tumblers; but it is a work of 
time to discard all the evil and keep all the good of a breed with so 
many faults as the Mnffed Tumblers originally had. We hope to see 
the Mutfed Tumbler take the position that a short time more of culti- 
vation will justify it in asking for.—Binmincuam CoLUMBARIAN 
Socrmry. 


THE FANTAIL. 

Ix commenting upon this singular variety of Pigeon it is 
almost necessary that we should preface our remarks by a few 
observations relative to the present varied opinions held by 
Fantail breeders, with regard to ity characteristics considered 
of most importanee. The conflicting opinions of fanciers have 
too often been manifested to need move than a passing reference 
to show the importance of establishing a standard in order to 
tone down, or settle, if possible, these differences, so that those 
young fanciers who seek enlightenment as to the real merits 
may not be discouraged by such contrary opinions as are at 
present promulgated, and which certainly must be quite as 
annoying to the fancier as embarrassing to the experienced 
judge. We do not suppose that all fanciers will follow our 
standard and depart from their own peculiar views, but we will 
endeavour to make clear our opinions, and lay them before the 
fancier to draw his own conclusions. ‘ 

There appears to us to have been raised a local model in most 
districts where the culture of the Mantail has been af all cared 
for, and, ag a consequence, we too often find that what one 
judge has denounced to-day as unworthy even of a commenda- 
tion, a brother fancier and judge to-morrow pronounces perfect, 


58 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 19, 1871. 


and signifies such by the award of a prize. Thus our exhi- 
bitions are frequently looked upon, from the fancier’s point of 
view, as mere lotteries—scrambles for honour, or gain, or both, 
with a result far more gratifying to the wondering visitor than 
it is to those more intimately concerned. And itis to this 


reasonable cause, we think, may be attributed the fact that 


many staunch fanciers fall out of the ranks of exbibitors; and 
that others less skilled or educated in Pigeonology are deterred 
from taking part in so hazardous a speculation, and therefore 
either ride their little hobby in obscurity, or content themselves 
with such many-coloured spangled mongrels as may be seen 
upon our English farmsteads or at the poultry-shops in our 


| busy towns, rather than submit to change of fashion or the 
various flights of fancy to which, as exhibitors, they are so 
often subjected. 

We must not be supposed to be taking to task as referring to 
any of our qualified judges individually or collectively, for to 
| all persons so engaged we would give our hearty support, and 
| would strive to obtain for them the utmost freedom for their 
candid views, and also the greatest forbearance for their mis- 
takes, for to such errors the most zealous fanciers or experienced 
judges are liable. In no variety is there greater allowance 
necessary than in the judging of a number of pensof Fantails, 
| for in their carriage and deportment it may be truly said they are: 


as changeable as the shade, and in consequence due allowance 
should be made. It is simply our desire to settle great points 
and merge little differences, in order to bring about a better 
understanding amongst fanciers and judges with regard to this 
general favourite. 

The following description, then, is the result of our careful 
study. 2 

Fantails, as all fanciers are aware, and as most of your 
readers will guess, take their name from the peculiar fan-like 
shape of their tails, and which is, of course, one of the most 
important points in the bird, and to which the fancier should 
direct special attention. But it must also be borne in mind 
that the Fantail possesses other peculiarities besides its con- 
spicuous tail. It has an eccentric shaking motion of the neck, 
which has been thought much of by some fanciers—so much, 
indeed, that this characteristic was once sought for as an esti- 


mable point, and in preference to a large and expansive fan. | 

By such admirers they were called ‘‘ Broad-tailed Shakers.” 
There haye been many strange tales told about this kind of 

bird which we pass over without notice, but two of the most | 


remarkable we think it well to refer to, as they proceed from 
eminent naturalists, and may mislead those who seek instruc- 
tion from such writers. From one of the aboyenamed sources 
we learn that ‘‘ The Fantail is capable of expanding and closing 
its tail like,” says one, ‘‘the Turkey,” and another ‘‘ the Pea- 
cock.” But this notion must be imaginary; it is contrary to 
fact, for the Fantail does not even possess the same power over 
its tail as do the other varieties, for the Fantail cannot close 
its tail, but can only control the membrane upon which the 
feathers grow in an upward, downward, and sideway motion, 
which does not influence the spread of the fan in any way. 
Another peculiarity noticeable in this variety is, that in its 
shaking motion it stands upon its toes, and by its backward 
jerking also a person unaccustomed to them might suppose it 
would topple over backward; but as a rule, notwithstanding 
the extent to which the birds throw back their heads, they should 
be able to maintain their equilibrium gracefully, and carry 
erect and at ease the expansive fans with which they are 


| adorned, and by which they are partially overshadowed. 


Fantails are, generally speaking, of a strong and vigorous 


January 19, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 59 


constitution, requiring but little care in their management 
beyond providing a suitable pen for keeping them dry and clean, 
and then, with ordinary attention, they will thrive and prove 
prolific birds, and good also to rear their young. Plenty of 
space should always be given, and all nooks and corners avoided, 
lest they should crush, break, fringe, or wholly destroy their 
tails. Brick nests on the floor have been found most suitable 
for these birds. They seldom fly much and cannot fly long; 
and whatever may have been said about their aérial rudder, 
powers of locomotion, or high flying under exceptional circum- 
stances, we know well from experience that good Fantails 
cannot and will not fly much, but that they are the tamest and 
perhaps the most tractable of all Pigeons. 

At present the recognised varieties of Fantails are IWhite, 
Blue, Silver, Black, Red, and Yellow. Splashed and Saddle- 
backed ones are numerous, but are only looked upon as mon- 
grels. It is a rare occurrence to find two of these latter kinds 
alike. There are also Frizzled and Silky Fantails. White 
Fantails are by far the most numerous, and amongst them are 
unquestionably to be found the best specimens. 

The general properties or qualities of the Fantail are briefly 
summed up as follows, which, with the aid of our engraving, 
we hope will be sufficiently clear to elucidate our views. The 
head of the Fantail should be plain—capped ones were once 
numerous, but are now almost disregarded. The head partakes 
somewhat of the ordinary elongated shape of the common 
Dove Pigeon, but with a sudden rise from its small wart or 
nostril covers to the top of its head, and then as sudden a re- 
cedence to its neck, which should be slender and of a nice 
symmetrical curve. The breast must be very prominent; the 
shoulders or wing-butts generally hidden from view; the wings 
should suddenly slope from their sockets, and just meet at 
their tips behind the bird, and trailing, or nearly so, upon the 
ground; the back is very short, as a result of the neck and 
base of the tail coming in contact; the tail should be large 
and wide-spread, in form three-fourths of a circle, and pos- 
sessed of three rows of broad feathers, about forty-two in 
number. The bird must not throw backward its head so as to 
protrude behind, and thus divide its tail. To fanciers more 
accustomed to other varieties forty-two feathers for a tail may 
seem a ereat many, and so, indeed, they are; but we have known 
a Fantail to have forty-eight tail feathers, but we prefer a bird 
possessing qualifications even in a less degree, but in all its 
integral parts, rather than having solely a preponderating 
number of tail feathers at the sure sacrifice of an erect car- 
riage, without which many essential and minor points are en- 
tirely lost. Our engraving shows the desired combination. 

The tail should not only be of a three-fourths circular form, 
fut should slightly incline over the back, but not be aside, nor 
should it too much overhang, otherwise by its weight the bird’s 
wings are uplifted, the body hanging forward, and the general 
appearance spoilt. . 

The eye of the White Fantail is dark hazel; the legs rather 
short; the beak and nails pinkish white; legs and feet coral red. 

To admirers of the expansive, many, and broad-feathered 
“¢fan” at any cost, we would again observe that such a point 
is very desirable, but in our admiration of such a good point 
we must not forget the proud tip-toe strut, the graceful carriage, 
and nervous shake, so characteristic of a good Fantail, and 
without which the largest ‘‘fan’’ cannot be effectively dis- 
played. We have had under our notice too many distorted 
Specimens—toppling forward, and crouching beneath the weight 
of their bulky tails, their breasts in close proximity to the 
ground, their pinions crossed and pointing skyward—to adopt 
such point only as our standard. We should endeavour, as far 
ag possible, to obtain the embodiment of all the essential quali- 
ties, of which good carriage plays so important a part; it is the 
means by which other good qualities are exhibited to advantage. 

Blue Fantails are far less numerous than the White, and, as 
a rule, cannot be procured of such quality. The majority of 
Blues are of a dingy hue, but there are now many excellent 
Blue Fans of a good clear colour. Blue Fantails should be of 
2 good, bright, uniform colour, the head and neck feathers of 
& little darker tint. Across the upper coverts (as in Blue 
Pigeons generally) there are two black bars; a rim of black is 
algo upon the tail near to its extremity. The eye of the Blues 
must be pearl, the beak and nails dark. 

Black Fantails should be of one uniform tone, and as near 
as possible jet black; but as yet this desirable object is only 
occasionally attained. They are much too frequently produced 
of a bluish black, with oftentimes a faint indication of a bar, 
which is objectionable, and conclusively shows a cross with a 


coloured specimen, and however desirable such cross may be 
to perfect other points, colowr must assuredly suffer. 

Tae general properties of Blues, Silvers, Blacks, Yellows, 
Reds, Frizzled, and Laced Fantails are much alike; indeed, 
they should all answer the one general description. Colour of 
eye and feathering in each of the five first named constitute the 
differences, and denote the variety to which the birds belong. 
Red and Yellow Fantails are very scarce. They should be of one 
even colour, or ‘‘ self-coloured,” and must be free from the 
slaty grey too frequently visible upon most varieties termed 
self-coloured. They are held of little value unless they are 
pure and uniform in colour throughout their feathering. The 
Reds and Yellows, also, seldom have such expansive tails or such 
broad feathers as the other kinds; their tails are more fre- 
quently of the tundish or shuttlecock shape, and in conse- 
quence are not so attractive as the Whites and Blues, but still 
they command attention from their novel appearance. Silvers 
are much like the Blues, presenting the appearance of a nearly- 
washed-out blue, save the bar and lower portion of hackle, 
which is dark—nearly black. 

The eyes of the Blues, Silvers, Blacks, Yellows, and Reds 
should be of a pearlish colour. Good yellow-eyed birds are nu- 
merous in each variety (save Whites), but pearl eyes for Blues, 
Blacks, and Silvers should always be preferred. Of Yellows 
and Reds we are not so particular, but would prefer pearl. 

Frizzled Fantails are scarce. They may be described as 
White Fans with their feathersturned upside down, Silky Fan- 
tails also present a singular appearance. They much resemble 
an ordinary specimen partially dried after a bath, but yet have, 
as their name denotes, a nice silky appearance. Good speci- 
mens are of a darkish tint on the eye, wattle, and nostril. 

These two last-named varieties are extraordinary-looking 
birds, command a high price, and attract great attention at our 
public exhibitions from their very singular and rare appearance. 
—BrruincHam CoLumBartan Society. 


RABBITS AT THE COMING COLCHESTER AND 
PORTSMOUTH SHOWS. 


OnE of the most pleasing features of the Colchester Show to me, 
being a Rabbit-fancier, is the sum of £12, offered for the four classes 
of Rabbits, being the largest amount ever yet given. I am glad to 
see that the claims of the Variety classes to be placed on an equal 
footing with the Lops have not been overlooked, the handsome prizes 
of 40s. and 20s. being allotted to all the classes. The Rabbits are to 
be penned singly. The entries are only 2s. 6d. perpen. I shall enter 
as many as possible. I have also before me the prize list of the 
coming Portsmouth Show. Supported as it is by so many of the 
nobility and gentry of the neighbourhood, and above all patronised 
by the fair sex, I cannot congratulate the Committee so warmly as I 
have done that of the Colchester Show. Five classes of Lops are 
to receive 15s. and 5s. There is only one class for Any variety, and 
one prize of 10s. The entrance fee in all cases being 2s. 6d. per 
pen contrasts very unfavourably with Colchester. It cannot be just 
to award ten prizes to Lops and only one inferior prize to the Variety 
classes, and still charge the same entrance fee.—S. G. Hupson, Hull. 


Torquay Pounrry SHow. — The prizes offered are very 
liberal; there are three unusually valuable silver cups, and four 
prizes in each class, varying from £4 to 10s., and for Pigeons 
£2 and £1. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


PrymoutH SHow (An Exhibitor). — The subject, we think, needs no 
further comment. Reports are not usually subjects for criticism. 


BREEDING GOLDEN-PENCILLED HamBureus (0. P. Q.).—No one is so 
well able as yourself to judge of the birds you should mate. We can only 
answer for age, and we advise you to put a cockerel and a hen together, 
taking care that the last possesses all the points you require, and that 
the first has no real defect. The grizzled tail isa great defect, and the 
pencillings should not go round the feather—that has a tendency to pro- 
duce mossy plumage. With such a hen you should put a scrupulously 
correct cock. 

UNFERTILE Hoos (Poussin).—The result you complain of is not un- 
common so early in the season and during very inclement weather. We 
should set her next eggs with confidence. Frost causes the yolk and 
white of the egg to mingle. When one becomes rotten life has to an 
extent been developed and afterwards allowed to perish; hence corrup- 
tion. Those you found unturned and totally unchanged are termed 
“clear eggs,” and are such as are produced where hens and pullets only 
arekept. Such eggs are frequently met within the winter. Temperature 
has much to do with it. It will not occur again. 

FowLs UNDER TREES (H. K.).—We fear the confinement has done the 
mischief. There is nothing in their run to cause it, but if there be a 
time of year when it is likely to be unhealthy it is now. Snow is always 
trying, and rain with cold winds causescolds. Catch allthat are running 
at the nostril and confine them. Let only the healthy keep about. If all 


60 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


iry to heal the others; if you succeed 
d, hatch them and rear the chickens. 
no place is better for them than a 
ea dry roosting place, and have access 
also recollect they want very good 
rth yields nothing now. If you care 
g some of them will get well; but if you 
care for poultry, keep only enough of them to hatch some pure chickens. 

CHANGE OF Stock Brrps (Brahma).—tlfi the cock were changed now: 
we think you may safely depend on his successor being the father of the 
chickens. 

TourRKEY FOR TaBLE (Arthenice)—Why do you not fatten the bird with 
the injured eye, and keep the younger for laying? Are you sure it was 
done by fighting. It may b ld and incipient roup—raison de plus for 
killing her. Her state of health offers no impediment. The young one 
will be quite old enough to breed from. She will not lay tillthe end of 
March. 

SpanisH Cock’s Comp Droorine 
from want of condition, or from 


your birds are sick kill the w 
get some early eggs of ap 
In the warm, dry, summ 
copse. Of course your b 
to dust and light soil. Y. 
feeding ai this time of yea 
only for eggs keep the mongre 


(Young Henwife)—The comb falls 
condition, or from hereditary defect. 
If from the first cause, improyed health will perhaps rectify the defect; 
_if from the second, it will not. If from the third, only one treatment is 
possible—that is, to fasten-the comb with silver wire in the position in 
which it is desired to place it. 

BranMa COCKEREL VULT 


S-HOCKED (C. W.).—We consider a vulture- 
hocked Brahma worthless a breeding bird, if anything more than an 
ordinary fowl is required. e kill numbers every year, and sell others 
at nominal prices only, because they have that fault. A vulture-hocked 
Brahma has no pretension to be a prize bird, nor should it be sold as such. 


GAME BAanTaw BREEDING (Sworrabs).—Few persons breed or keep the 
Black Game Bantams. They were never numerous, and are, we think, as 
much keptas ever. Their larger brethren, the Black Game fowls, are very 
little kept or shown. We do not believe it is well for any birds to breed 
in-and-in. You ask why? Because it is neither good for shape nor con- 
stitution. It is destructive of strength, and produces deformity. Game 
Bantams should not be short-legged, neither should they be stilty. A 
short-legged Game fowl is an ab nation, aud a long-legged one a lamp- 
lighter. Choose the happy medium. 

SPANIsH Coox’s Comps Buack (Berkhampstead Subseriber).—It is more 
than probable the Spanish cock’s combis frosted. Rub it night and morn- 
ing, but especially at night, with strong camphorointment. The Dorking 
hen has left off laying because the weather is so cold. We have never 
been led to believe a Spanish cock is ‘ difficile” in his choice of ‘‘com- 
pagnes.” Powdered chalk is an excellent thing to mix with poultry food. 

ROUGHNESS IN Hens’ Lecs (4 W‘D.).—Rubbing in sulphur ointment 
often removes it. 

STEWARTON Hives (Idem).—In ‘‘ Bee-keeping for the Many” is a de- 
scription and directions for managing. You can have it free by post if 
you enclose five postage stamps with your direction. 


Various (Apicola).—There seems to be no doubt that your stock has 
died of foul brood. The remaining honey should be drained and applied 
to any purpose except feeding bees, the combs melted down, and the hive 
itself, after its interior, the frames, floor-board, &c., have been well 
scraped, should be thoroughly washed both inside and out with a satu- 
rated solution of chloride of limes, and then left unused for a couple of 
seasons. If yours is a clused bee house the hives will require no further 
protection during winter. We cannot tell why the stock in your large 
hive is weaker than that in the smaller one. It may he owing, as you 
suggest, to the fault of the queen, or it may be due to incipient foul 
brood or some other cause, which can only be conjectured in the case of 
a hive with fixed combs, or determined with certainty by internal ex- 
amination if it be a moveable-comb hive. 


Sone TurusH AND REDwrine (7. H. T.).—The specific characteristics 
of the Song Thrush (Turdus musicus) are upper parts yellowish-brown, 
the head tinged with red; secondary coyerts and first row of small coverts 
tipped with reddish yellow; fore part of neck and breast yellowish, each 
feather terminated by a triangular brownish-black spot; lawer wing- 
coverts reddish-yellow. Those of the Redwing (Turdus iliacus) are 
upper parts deep hair-brown, inclining to olive; a blackish-brown spot 
before the eye, a large whitish band over it; secondary coverts tipped 
with greyish-white ; fore-part of neck and breast white, with longitudinal 
streaks of blackish-brown and pale brown; middle of the sides and lower 
wing-coverts light red. In the third yolume of Macgilliyray’s ‘* British 
Birds” there are full descriptions. 


OUR METEOROLOGICAL REPORT. 


Ix accordance with your request I have much pleasure in supplying 
the first of, I hope, a long series of brief weekly reports on the vary- 
ing characteristics of our climate. In drawing up the table I have 
been guided by two leading desires—yiz., to give those facts (1) which 
bear most closely on horticultural and agricultural pursuits, and (2) 
which will be most useful for comparison to my many friends among 
your readers, 

Perhaps you will alloy me to say a few words “‘ for once and for all” 
resyecting the data in the accompanying table; if in any respect I 
fail to- make my meaning clear I will, with your permission, subse- 
quently reply to any queries. . 

It will be seen that the table is diyisible into two portions, the first 
giving absolute data for nine o’clock each morning, and the second 
giving the extreme temperatures and the total amount of rain. 

The barometric readings are, as all published readings should be, 
corrected for index error, reduced to 32°, and to what they would have 
been had the barometer been at the level of the sea. The use of baro- 
metric readings, especially in conjunction with the hygrometer, in 
indicating coming changes of weather, is too well known to require 
enforcement, and is of itself ample reason for the insertion of both 
barometric and hygrometric readings in a horticultural journal. But 
besides this, the humidity of the air as indicated by the difference 
between the dry and wet bulb thermometers, the direction of the wind, 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 19, 1871. 


and the temperature of the soil, exert influences on plants which, 
carefully noted, would I am sure lead to useful results. Extremes 
of temperature are not less important, but shade temperatures alone 
are not sufficient: hence I have added the highest temperature re- 
gistered by a vacuum black bulb thermometer, of which the bulb is’ 
4 feet above the ground, and fully exposed to the sun; and also the 
lowest point reached by a very delicate spirit thermometer, which 
tests on grass. These two thermometers evidently give an approxima- 
tion to the temperatures to which vegetation is exposed. Last, but 
not least, is the depth of rain collected by a rain gauge whose mouth 
is 6 inches above the surface of the ground. 

As a good deal of confusion exists as to the date against which 
certain observations are to be entered, I may, in conclusion, state that, 
assuming that (as is far the best) observations are made at 9 A.a., it 
is obvious that nineteen times out of twenty the maximum tempera- 
ture then read belongs to the previous day; it is therefore to be so 
entered. Again, the coldest time of the day is usually about an hour 
before sunrise, therefore the minimum read at 9 4.4. on any given 
day belongs to that day, and is so entered. Lastly, the rain measured 
at 9 a.m. was the product of the previous twenty-four hours, of which 
fifteen belong to the previous day, and only nine to that on which it 
is measured ; therefore the rain, like the maximum temperatures, are 
always entered one day back—¢.g , 33.8, the maximum temperature 
of the 11th instant, was the reading of the instrument at 9 a... on 
the 12th. —G. J. Sytons, 62, Camden Square, N.W. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN, SquaRE, Lonpon. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Darter. 9 am. | Is THE Day. 
F {Shade Tem-| Radiation z 
1s7l. Direc- | Temp.| perature. |Temperature = 
tion of jof Soil es ee Se 
Jan, Wind. | at 1ft. | | In , On ie 
Max. Min.| Sun. Grass 
eg. deg. | deg.| deg 
We. 11 “793, | 80.8 | N.E. 33.0. | 33.8 | 29.9 
Th. 12 5 | 82.5 | N.W. 33:2 | 35.3 | 29,7 
Fri. 13 2: | 25.9 ° 32.8 | 37.5 | 19.7 
Sat. 14 | 29.986 | 41.1 | 40.8 Ss. 32.9 44.3 | 25.9 
Sun.15 | 29.571 | 37.5 | 36.2 S.W. 33.4 | 44.8 | 36.5 
Mo. 16 | 28.888 | 43.9 | 428 W. 84.8 | 45.0 | 35.5 
Tu. 17 | 28.973 | 37.6 | 36.8 s. 34.7 | 40.6 | 35.3 
Means | 29.657. | 36.0 | 35.1 os 33.5 | 40.3 | 30.3 | STs 29.2 
REMARKS. 


11th.—Overcast in the morning, snow began at 10 a.m, and from 1 to 
1.35 p.m. fell heavily, lying 14 deep at the latter hour. In the evening, 
about 8 P.at., another heavy fall occurred, making the entire depth 
nearly 2 inches, but the snow was very light, and hence, as above 
noted, it only yielded about one-sixteenth its depth of water, 
instead of one-twelfth, the usual proportion. 

12th.—Overcast in morning, fine-evening; barometer 30.229 at 9 Paz. 

13th.—Cold morning, roads very slippery; about 7 P.M. a slight fall of 
rain and sleet, with partial thaw. i 

14th.—Complete thaw, temperature 14° higher than yesterday at the same 
hour. Wind began to freshen soon after noon; squally at night. 

15th.—Fine early, but wet and uncomfortable after 11 aur, a little snow 
mixed with the rainat3Pmu. Gale at night. 

16th.—Fair in morning, but heavy rain at intervals all day. 

17th.—Heavy rain at 10 4.m., and snow at 14 4 m., wild afternoon, starlight 
in evening. 

The most noticeable feature of the week is the fall of the barometer 
from 30.229 inch on the 12th, at 9 PM, to 23.876 inch (1.353 inch) at 
8.3) Aa, on the 16th, and its long continuance at very low readings, even 
at 9 p.m. on the 17th haying only risen to 23.999 inch.—G. J_ S¥atons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Jancary 18. 


PRICES remain quite stationary, and business nearly so, the chief 
operations being confined to rough goods, which are tolerably plentiful 
considering the severity of the weather during the last month. Hot- 
house Grapes are somewhat in excess of the demand, and large quantities 
of inferior ones can barely finda market. Potato trade steady. 


FRUIT. 

oe 8s sas. a 
App 0 to2 0} Oranges........-.--10 6 Otold U 
Chestnuts. 0 1S GO| Pears,kitchen......doz. 10 20 
Filberts 0 20 dessert... doz 10 80 
Cobs....... : 2 0 2 6) Pime Apples. --lb. 8 0 5 0 
Grapes, Hothouse 4 0 .§ 0} Plums............}sieve 16 8 U0 
Lemons... 6 0 10 0 10 0 16 0 
Melons.... 10 “0 10 20 

VEGETABLES. 
s.d. 8, a sda 8. a 
Sg ecreseee 100 7 OtO10 O | Leeks ............ bunch uv 4tod 0 
Beans, Kidney ....%100 2 0 $8 0 voousvelOWs ei a0) amex are. 
Beet, Red.....e......doz. 20 3 0 iil. pottle 10 2 6 
Broccoli ........ bundle 0 9 1 6j| Mustard&Cress..punnet 0 32 O 9 
Brussels Sprouts..$sieve 2 0 3 0| Onions.. -. bushel 3 0 5 0 
Cabbage............ doz 1 0 2 0O| Parsley... + Bieve 8 0 6 0 
Carrots..... bunch 0 4 0 8} Parsnips. .doz 69 10 
Cauliflower. 2 0 6 0} Potatoes.. 20-40 
U6! A (0 i gs80 40 
8.0 6.0 06 10 
Ol oe, 16 20 
20 00 20 a0 
08s 00 66 O06 
0s 00 2°0 2° 6 
. os a0 80 00 
Horseradish ..,,bundle 83 0 5 0 06 086 


January 26, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 61 


. WEEKLY CALENDAR. 


Day | Day Average Tempera- 
of of N. 26—FEB. 1, 1871. : 
Month! Week. JAN, 26—F » 187 ture near London. |48 years, 
Day. |Night.|Mean. 
26 | TH | Meeting of Royal Society, 8.30 p.m. 45.5 | 82.3 | 38.9 
27 | F 44.6 | 81.2 | 37.9 
28 | 5 Length of night 15h. 8m. 45.8 | 80.8 | 88.3 
29 Sun | 4 Sunpay AFTER EPIPHANY. 45.6 | 31.5 | 88.5 
30 | M 44.7 | 82.2 | 88.5 
81 Tu | Hilary Term ends. 44.9 | 30.9 | 37.9 
1 WwW Meeting of Society of Arts, 8 P.m. 44.4 | 82.0 | 88.2 


Rain in 


Sun 
Rises. 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 45.1°, and its night tempera- 
The greatest heat was 57°, on the 29th, 1863; and the lowest cold 8°, on the 30th, 1857. The greatest fall of rain was 0.70 inch. 


ture 81.5°. 


af 


ass 


Moon | Moon | Moon’s Cures Dey, 
Rises. Sets Age. aaaMllnvonr: 


RR 


85a10 | 6af1l 12 47 | 26 
52 10 | morn 6 12 59 | 27 
10 11/18 0 »)) 18 11] 28 
BURT N20 peed: 8 138 22 | 29 
53 11/26 2 9 13 32) 380 
after. | 81 38 10 18 41} 31 
56 0) 34 4 11 18 50} 32 


A NEW METHOD OF GROWING YOUNG 
VINES. 


HAVE for some time felt that our present 
method of preparing young Vines, especially 
for planting, is far from satisfactory, and 
that its imperfection is one of the causes that 
lead to the sudden decline in fruitfulness so 
often complained of in the case of the Vine. 
This being so, and having had to prepare 
about a thousand Vines for my own planting 
last spring, I adopted what is, as far as known 
to me, an entirely new method of growing 
them ; this I will explain in as few words as possible, and 
those who wish further details will find them in the seventh 
edition of my little book on the Vine; these, for gardeners 
at least, will be unnecessary, and amateurs seldom raise 
Vines from eyes. 

My objections to the usual system I had better state 
to begin with. The first is the rich soil used for growing 
the Vines. This gives rise to strong soft roots few in 
number, and which generally perish during the winter. 
The second is the coiling of the roots, first round the small 
pot, in which the eye is started, before it is shifted into a 
larger pot; then the same process continued in the larger 
pot; and lastly, when the Vine has to be turned out of the 
pot for planting, the extreme difficulty of distentangling 
the roots, in which process all the spongioles and small 
roots are destroyed, leaving a few long bare roots which 
have to be spread out in the border, reaching a long way 
across it, and from the points of which the newly-formed 
roots start, leaving a great part of the carefully-prepared 
border behind them. 

To avoid such evils as I consider these are, I proceeded 
as follows :—On the pavement of what was intended for and 
is now a Pine stove, under which are hot-water pipes for 
giving bottom heat, I placed a complete covering of tough 
fibry turf taken off a sheep-walk; on thisI placed 4 inches 
of fine fibry maidenloam. In this, at « distance of 6 inches 
or so from each’ other, holes an inch deep were made, and 
filled with white sand, and in the sand the Vine eyes were 
placed, and just covered with it. The bottom heat did 
not exceed 60°. 

The Vine eyes started in the usual way, and out of 
sixteen hundred not six failed to make rapid progress. 
When they were about 9 inches high, with four or five 
fully-developed leaves, and their first set of strong quill- 
like roots beginning to interlace each other, I had each 
plant cut round with a knife, so that it rested on its own 
isolated bit of turf, and had the points of its roots cut off. 
They flagged a little for a few days, but soon began to 
grow again, and I had each plant raised on a square 
trowel, and transplanted to a similar bed of turfand fibrous 
loam, but this time they were placed from 9 to 12 inches 
apart, according to their strength, filling in all round with 
loam in which there was no manure of any kind. When 
raised on the trowel, the edges of the square of soil they were 
growing in was a mass of fine white needle-like roots 
springing from the large roots that were cut across. The | 

No. 513.—Vou, XX., NEw SERIES, 


e 


Vines seemed to suffer no check 
from their removal, but grew 
rapidly. 

When the Vines were about 
3 feet high, and just a week be- 
fore I meant to plant them in 
the borders, I had them cut round 
again, but this time the blocks of 
loam in which they were grow- 
ing were from 9 inches to a foot 
square, and 6 inches deep, and 
one mass of fine active roots 
more like those of a Box or 
Privet bush than of a Vine; they 
were moved entire to where they 
were planted with the greatest 
facility, not a root being in- 
jured. ; 

The progress the Vines. made 
after being planted in the bor- 
ders was, in my experience, alto- 
gether unparalleled. The eyes 
were put in the soil on the 7th of 
February last, and I send you 
samples of the wood cut exactly 
to a day eleven months from 
the time the eyes were put in 
the soil. They were chiefly 
Muscats, Lady Downe’s (black 
and white), Gros Colman, Ali- 
cante, and—strongest of all—the 
Golden Champion. You will note- 
how little pith there is in the 
wood. a 

About seven hundred of such: 
Vines as I did not require for 
planting I had potted for either- 
fruiting in pots or planting, and 
they have been equally success- 
ful; therefore I can recommend 
the system for either purpose. 
An examination of the border 
shows that the roots are retain- 
ing the habit thus forced upon 
them, and are, so to speak, taking 
their work before them.— W. 
TuHomson, Dalkeith Park. 


' [We received three cuttings 
from Mr. Thomson, they were of 
Golden Champion, Lady Downe’s, 
and Gros Colman. No better- 
ripened, shorter-jointed, smaller- 
pithed, finer young wood was 
ever produced on a Vine; and 
when it is remembered that no 
moré than eleyen months before 
the eyes producing that wood 
were planted, we believe that 
such success is without a pa- 
No. 1165.—Vou. XLYV., OLD SERIES, 


62 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 26, 1871. 


rallel. We accompany this with a drawing of a section from 
the Golden Champion cutting, exactly of the size sent to 
us.—EDs. | 


HOP CULTIVATION FOR ORNAMENT AND USE. 
No. 1. 

Ir is not without considerable diffidence that I address my- 
self to a subject which to a certain extent may be thought a 
departure from the line laid down of treating in these pages 
only on matters of a purely horticultural nature; I likewise 
feel diffident in meddling with a subject of which the most 
experienced cultivators often admit they know but little; but 
I am emboldened by the fact that if the Hop plant and its 
culture were better known amongst gardeners it might be in- 
troduced more frequently in places where its beauties entitle it 
toa place. In stating this, I believe 1am not using stronger 
language than will be borne out by all, or at ell events nearly 
all, of those who have seen a plantation of Hops in good con- 
Gition in August, and I call upon them to say whether they 
have ever met with anything in the whole vegetable world 
that exceeded it in grace and beauty. As there seems to be no 
reason why the beauties of the Hop should be confined to the 
districts where it is cultivated, it would be well if those having 
the means would try a plant or two on some suitable spot, and 
by careful attention to the plant, its beauties would in favourable 
years well reward the grower for his labour; whilst the interest 
with which it is regarded wheve it is not cultivated as a pro- 
fitable crop also enhances its importance. 

Although the cultivation of the Hop on a large seale is limited 
to a few favoured places, there is no doubt but the number of 
these might be multiplied, and suitable and sheltered sites 
in most gardens or grounds might be tried with a stool or 
two of this plant. I remember many years ago visiting a gar- 
den in North Cheshire where there were specimens of Hops in 
excellent condition, the gardener, I believe, being a Sussex 
man. I have also seen very fair specimens of Hops growing in 
a thicket in a situation far from favourable in Northumberland, 
and I also remember once noticing a Hop hill in the garden 
surrounding Stirling Castle, but the produce there, as might be 
expected, was small, the great elevation and want of shelter 
being felt by other things as well as the Hop, though I have 
seen fair examples of Hops against the front of a public house 
in Yorkshire. The Hop, however, as an object of beauty and 
interest is far from being so widely scattered as it deserves to 
be, and I think it might often be employed as a summer 
climber to cover arbovrs and similar places, and with as good 
results as other plants used for the purpose, whilst in fayour- 
able seasons it would possess an interest which none of the 
usual plants would have. 

The Hop is often met with in Kent in a wild state, but it is 
not generally regarded as a native plant, for it is supposed to 
have been introduced from the Netherlands about three hundred 
years ago. The mode by which our forefathers preserved their 
beer previous to that time seems not to have been transmitted 
to us ; perhaps it was a secret they did not wish to be too widely 


known, like that of making beer from the wild Heath, which. 


tradition says the Picts had the means of doing, but the secret 
died with them. Be this as it may, there is no difference of 
opinion at the present day as to Hops being an essential com- 
ponent in the manufacture of beer, and whatever else has been 
used as a substitute for them has always been regarded by 
John Bull as an adulteration. 

It is, I believe, generally admitted that about one-half of 
the Hops grown in the United Kingdom are produced in Kent, 
and that Kent and Sussex together produce fully three-fourths 
of the entire crop. Of those grown in Kent, the bulk comes 
from the centre and the southern edge of the county, the 
western, northern, and coast district producing but few. In 
the districts where Hops are cultivated the diversities of soil 
are, perhaps, a8 great as where any other crop is attempted to 
be grown, the soils varying from the stiff clayey loam of the 
Weald to the dry chalky downs of Hast Kent. Plantaticns of 
Hops are likewise to be met with on the dry stony soil over- 
lying the limestone, or what is hore called Kentish rag, as well 
as on some peaty marshes by the side ot the Medway, where 
it is necessary to maintain open ditches 4 feet deep, and only 
15 feet apart, 21! over the ground, the height above water mark 
Hoo admitting of any other kind of drainage. Extraordinary 
crops are reported to be sometimes obtained from land of this 
description, but the quality is inferior, the variety grown not 
haying the best name at market; in fact it may be said that 


the Hops of the best quality are invariably produced on dry 
land abounding in lime or some of its combinations. Some 
dzy valleys between the chalky downs to the south of Canter- 
bury produce excellent samples, although not better than are 
often met with from the ragstone slopes facing the Medway. 
The greater part of the course of that river from Tunbridge to 
Maidstone is through a district rich in Hop gardens, some 
parishes presenting as great an area under Hops and fruit to- 
gether as under all other agricultural crops; and as the ground 
devoted to the former two is all cultivated by hand, it need 
hardly be said that a farm or holding of fifty acres gives em- 
ployment to a greater number of hands than are often met with 
elsewhere on @ farm of many times that extent. The gather- 
ing-in of the crop alone gives employment to a greater number 
of persons than eny agricultural crop that I am aware of. 
Some growers during the past season expended from £15 to £20 
per acre in securing their crop. The anxiety with which the 
crop is watched may therefore be readily conceived, especially 
when the reader is told how exceedingly precarious it is—so 
much £0, in fact, that it is not unusual for the grower to do the 
best he can and not realise a single shilling, and that may even 
be several times repeated; on the other hand there have been 
now and then instances where a crop of Hops has realised 
more than would have bought the land twice over, valuable as 
it often is: 

So capricious is the Hop plant that, as mentioned at the 
beginning of this article, it is not unusual to meet with 
old cultivators, men who have made the plant their study 
through life, admit themselves puzzled and fairly beaten when 
their efforts to avert failure are of no avail; and on the other 
hand occasionally a recovery will take place in plants that 
seemed in a hopeless state of disease, and a fair ayerage crop 
will be produced. These peculiarities in the Hop have no 
parallel, so far as I am aware, among other crops, the energies 
of the cultivator being almostas powerless to control the plant’s 
going downhill as they are to stop the Potato disease. At the 
same time he seldom or never gives up in despair, the Hop- 
grower, in fact, being one of the most ardent of all cultivators, 
trying all manner of experiments, and examining his crop 
daily with a keener inspection than the plant-cultivator whose 
pets are in preparation for some show, for he will tell you 
to-day whether his prospects are better or worse than they 
were yesterdey. He does this, not in the way of merely jump- 
ing at a conclusion, but as.the result of the close inspection of 
a number of his plants, and he is generally right, though the 
superficial observer may call his conclusions the result of 
prejudice. 

It is the uncertainty of success that has limited Hop-culture 
to certain localities, and it is doubtful whether science will ever 
be able to battle with this uncertainty. Much has certainly 
been done of late years in freeing the cultivation of the plant 
from some vexatious restrictions put upon it by those who buy 
the produce. Still Hopsare a capricious crop; and though tle 
past season has been favourable, the preceding three years were 
indifferent, although the skill and attention exercised were the 
same in all. The united crop of the three years referred to 
in many instances did not exceed that of 1870 alone, and there 
are often enough greater differences than this. Besides, the 
quantity of Hops really wanted is not very large, and as they 
deteriorate very much by being kept over a year, the anxiety to 
sell within a given period has, with other causes too compli-~ 
cated to be mentioned here, placed the Hop market in a con- 
dition more fettered and hampered by restrictions than that 
of anything else I know. yen the removal of the excise 
duty has not set the planter so free as he ought to be, but time 
will doubtless effect a reform in an abuse which legislative 
enactments are powerless in.—JoHNn Robson. 


DOUBLE-FLOWERED PELARGONIUMS AS; 
BEDDERS. 


Nor haying a sufficient number of one soré of the above 
class of Pelargoniums to fill a bed last summer, our beds being 
large, I did not attempt planting any of them out. I have 
heard poor accounts of their success out of doors, the common 
complaint being their too vigorous habit, but there cannot be 
two opinions as to their suitability as pot plants. They are 
vigorous in pots, but not too much so when properly managed. 
I grow a largo number last summer for the decoration of our 
conservatory, and those who saw them can testify they were 
good. They were—Andrew Henderson, one of the best of the 


January 26, 1871. ] 


double-flowering vurioties, its habit and growth being dwarf 
and compact; colour clear scarlet lake. The trusses are of 
extraordinary size, and the individual flowers are very full and 
double. IE have seen nothing of its colour equal to this. 
Emile Lemoine, extraordinarily large trusses of large and very 
double flowers; colour carmine changing to scarlet. It is of 
medium growth, throwing its trusses well above the foliage. I 
should say it will make a good bedder. Gloire de Nancy, much 
in the way of Andrew Henderson, but not nearly so good; 
flowers rich rosy scarlet, growth vigorous. Surpasse Gloire de 
Nancy and Ranunculiflora plenissima, not worth growing. 
Vistor, a remarkably effective varicty, the flowers being of a 
bright orange scarlet, striped and flaked with white. This is 
e splondid variety. Madame Lemoine, a shrubby-growing 
kind with the leaves conspicuously marked with a dark brown 
zone; & free bloomer. The trusses are immense, the flowers 
very double and perfectly formed, of a beautiful bright pink 
colour. This is, of its colour, one of the best double-flowering 
varieties ever sent out. Wilhelm Pfitzer, an extremely attractive 
and dazzling variety, producing immense trusses of large doublo 
flowers of an exceedingly rich carmine colour. Marie Lemoine, 
this vaviety is said to be the same in style as Madame Lemoine, 
but with the trusses larger, and the habit dwarf and compact. 
T have not had it long enough to prove it. The other varieties 
I have proved. 

T have now a stock of Madame Lemoine which I purpose 
bedding out next summer. Tho number of cuttings required 
were potted-off in August; each cutting had a thumb-pot. 
After the cuttings were potted they were well watered, a place 
in the yard was covered with coal ashes which were made level 
and hard; on this the pots were placed, no frame or other pro- 
tection being put over them. The cuttings soon took root, 
and when frost was expected they were removed to a Melon 
pit, where they have been kept ever since. I shall have them 
potted in March in large 48-sized pots; they will be taken into 
the Peach house to remain until the last week of April, they 
will then be placed in the yard for a fortnight, end finally 
removed to the flower garden, where they are to be plunged in 
tke bed in which they are intended to remain for the summer. 
The pots should be plunged just deeply enough for the rims to 
be covered. Hvery plant must be carefully watered before 
plunging. I expect to restrict the vigour of the plants by the 
above mode of treatment. 

The method is not anew one. About twelve years ago when 
I lived under Mr, James McIntosh, at Drumlanrig Gardens, 
plunging vigorous varieties of the single Pelargonium was there 
practised with good results—in fact, some of those plunged in 
the beds hardly made more than an inch of wood, and had 
very small leaves. If any of your readers have tried plunging 
the double-flowering varioties, I shall be glad to know the 
result.—O. M. M’Orow. 


ICE versus GLASS. 


Many of your correspondents like ‘ R. F.” (seo page 49 of 
last week’s Journal), have no doubt had their attention di- 
rected to this subject in a way that has beon anything but 
agreeable during this severe weather. The breakage of glass 
has been in many places very great. Having suffered a good 
deal from this cause, perhaps a few of my deductions may 
be useful to others. 

Somo years since I drew the attention of your readers to the 
fact, that much of the glass used for horticultural buildings 
had never been properly annealed. This is a subject on which 
many persons have never thought; those who have, know that 
if glass is allowed to cool quickly after it is made, it is liable to 
break on yery slight changes of temperature. I once heard 
and saw a large and expensive looking-glass crack across when 
no one was near it. Tumblers that have not been annealed 
properly will not bear hot water, and those who have seen 
Rupert’s drops know that hot glass cooled very quickly cannot 
eyen be scratched without falling into fine powder. Having 
badly annealed glass, a person must expect that in time it will 
allerack. To deal with a respectable firm, and not to be too 
anxious for cheap glass, is the only way to guard against 
this worst cause of breakage. Mere thickness is no safeguard, 
heavy glass if unannealed will break quite as soon as thin. It 
is very bad economy to use glassy however good too thin. I 
shall never again order glass under 21 ozs. to the foot, it is 
much cheaper in the end than 15-oz. glass. 

Then, again, glass is often used too wide, and in that case it 
is too weak to carry heavy snow or bear rough wind without 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


63 


breaking. Panes 15 inches wide are as wide as ever ought to 
be used, and I should prefer 14 inches. A wide lap is also one 
of the chief causes of breakage; so long as thereis a lap it can- 
not be toonarrow. A wide lap holds much moisture, and as ice 
occupies more space than water, such moisture when frozen 
naust lift one pane up or press the other down, and in cold 
weather the glass will not bear this without breaking, even 
when good in quality. Some will say, ‘‘ Why have any lap 
at all? Place the edges together merely, and if cut level they 
will keep out the water.’ My answer is, that in stormy weather 
@ roof so glazed will admit water at every joint, as I have 
proved. Of course, a very flat roof is a cause of breakage, as 
more water is retained by the laps of the glass, and more 
snow accumulates on it. But I have proved that the greatest 
preventive to breakage by frost is to cut the glass to a slight 
curve instead of a straight edge. However slight the curve 
may be it causes all the rain to run down the middle of the 
pane, thus drawing it away from the putty—a most valuable 
efiect; but in addition it prevents the moisture resting be- 
tween the laps, because as it collects at the lowest part of the 
curve its weight overcomes the capillary attraction of the lap, 
end it runs off, or rather down. In my new houses in which I 
have adopted this plan, there is not one pane cracked with frost 
to twenty in those where the straight-cut glass has been used. 
Now, this great improvement costs little to carry out, next to 
nothing in fact. The curye being very slight, it is little more 
than removing the corners of the panes. Tho trouble to the 
glazier is nothing, because it is only cutting to a slightly 
rounded edge in place of a straight one. In addition to these 
advantages 2 house so glazed has a much better appearance 
than one elezed in the ordinary manner.—J. R, PEARSON, 
Chilwell. 


SETTING OF GRAPES. 


Arrmr reading Mr. Pearson’s excellent and useful article 
nnder the above heading (see vol. xix., page 509), I came to 
the conclusion that it might be of benefit to the amateur at 
least to know a little about the setting of the Grapes referred 
to by me on the previous page. 

Taking them as there described, Grizzly Frontignan is the 
first, and requires no attention beyond a gentle shake when the 
flowers expand, and the same remark holds good as regards 
Royal Muscadine, Buckland Sweetwater, and Foster’s White 
Seedling... Black Hamburgh and Frankenthal I never set arti- 
ficially, as I find no need for it. Mill Hill Hamburgh with me 
was-a bad setter, and shanked as well. In the late house, 
which receives little heat, I find no difficulty with Trentham 
Black and West’s St. Petor’s; but Lady Downe’s, Alicante, and 
Barbarossa [Gros Guillaume] require a brush to be run over 
them, and should alco be planted at the warm end. 

My treatment of Vines when in flower is very simple, though 
I do not affirm it would do for Vines in flower now or earlier, 
but those flowering, say in March, have the benefit of more 
light and sun than those flowering earlier. When I see the 
Vines gre about opening the flowers I cease syringing overhead, 
but meintain a moist atmosphere by keeping the troughs full of 
water, and by damping and syringing the floors and walls, for I 
do not consider anything is gained by keeping a dry atmosphere. 
Should the weather be unfavourable or unsettled I use a little 
extra fire, so that I may give more air at the back and a little 
in front, taking every advantage of sunshine to admit more air. 
I also leave a little air at night at the back. Where bees are 
kept every means should be taken to entice them into the 
vineries. I have frequently carried in both bees and blue- 
bottle flies, and shut them up for a fow hours; the flies, 
though not extracting the honey, must do much good by dis- 
turbing the foliage. Should there be any cutting or search- 
ing winds at the time the Vines are in flower, it is better to 
dispense with the front air. With me the setting of the above 
Grapes is an easy matter, and they are very suitable to those 
who require quality rather than quantity and size, and especially 
to the amateur. 

After reading Mr. Pearson’s notes, I wish I had room for 
Mrs. Pince and Muscat Hamburgh, though I am afraid they 
would require more heat then I should care to give. I should 
like to hear how Golden Champion succeeds in Lancashire ; 
I intended having a Vine of it in the summer, but was 
diysuaded, being told it was 2 bad setter—in fact, partaking, 
as Mr. Pearson says, of the Canon Hell Muscat. I have not 
seen if in fruit myself. 

I have endeavoured to show the treatment of my Vines when 


64 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 26, 1871. 


in flower in a few short lines, and in summing up the points to 
be observed, I put down the following :—1st, Withhold water 
from the top when in flower. 2ad, Maintain a moist atmo- 
sphere, though the degree of moisture will be regulated by the 
weather outside, as it is not good policy to keep the house so 
damp in wet as in fine weather. 3rd, Keep up a regular tem- 
perature, which should be 5° higher during setting. 4th, Give 
air back and front as weather permits, shaking the Vines gently 
from time to time.—SrepHen Castiy, Bent Hill Gardens, 
Prestwich. 


EARLY AND SECOND-EARLY POTATOES FOR 
LIGHT AND HEAVY SOILS. 


“Novice,” I will presume, wishes for information having 
regard to production for market purposes; then there cannot 
remain a doubt about the Harly American Rose being the 
‘‘ heaviest cropping” early; and the Harly Goodrich (an Ameri- 
can white and rather coarse-looking sort) as a second early 
would beat Paterson’s Victoria in that respect both upon light 
and heavy soils; only when they are grown on the flat on the 
latter description of soils they will scarcely do to present upon 
the dinner table. Give them light soil, or plough and plant 
them upon the ridge system on heavy soil, and then he will 
get bountiful and very eatable crops, which few, except con- 
noisseurs of Potatoes, would find fault with. 

Paterson’s Victoria is a better kind than either of the above 
to grow upon light and heavy soils, but it does not come in so 
early. In regard also to ‘‘ heavy cropping,” your correspondent 
has done right to procure Sutton’s Red-skinned Flourball as a 
late sort, but he will do quite wrong to grow it upon the flat 
in the generally heavy soils of his neighbourhood, which I 
know quite well. It has the faults of the American kinds so 
grown in England—namely, a soddened look and a flavourless 
quality, which the best of cooking cannot rectify; but when 
grown on a light soil, or upon the ridge, it will produce a great 
bulk of large, white-fleshed, floury-looking Potatoes, which, as 
I said before, will satisfy most people, but which a Paterson’s 
Victoria would distance for flavour. Rintoul’s New Early 
White Don, as a heavy-cropping, good-flavoured second-early, 
would be well worth the attention of ‘‘ Novicz,’’ and I do not 
think he need care to trouble himself with more sorts than 
those enumerated. 

Messrs. Sutton sent me other American sorts, &¢c., which I 
proved on different descriptions of soils, but the Early Rose, 
the Harly Goodrich, and the Red-skinned Flourball were the 
cream of the lot. 

‘‘ Novice”? also requests you to send him any ‘‘ works” you 
have on Potatoes. Allow me to propose that you should send 
him nearly a quarter of a century’s JournaL or HortTicuLTURE 
with the index complete. He will there be enabled to learn a 
good deal more, I fancy, about Potatoes and their cultivation 
than any “works” at present extant would be likely to teach 
him. At page 55, in my answer to ‘'R. S.,” I have been made 
to blow both hot and cold at the same breath; drop the first, 
third, and fifth n’s of the first sentence, and then the reading 
will prove correct.—Rozpert FENN. : 


VIOLA CORNUTA ALBA. 


I po not think this valuable little bedder has been brought 
under the notice of your readers; I consider it one of the best 
of the bedding plants which have been introduced during the 
last two or three years, especially as we are so short of such 
plants having white flowers. Where I am, it is a difficult 
matter to get the Madame Vaucher section of Geraniums to 
bloom freely enough to make a good display; and notwith- 
standing all precautions, as mixing plenty of soot with the soil, 
strewing soot over it, dusting with sulphur, top-dressing, giving 
plenty of water, &c., we can only obtain a week’s or a fort- 
night’s bloom from the white Verbenas before they are 
smothered with mildew. Oh for a white Verbena with the 
habit and the free blooming of Purple King and its twin 
brother Crimson King! I had beds of these two that were 
splendid, and I only wanted a white variety of the same habit 
toaccompany them, Cannot Mr. Perry or Mr. Eckford raise us 
one ? 

The white Viola admirably fills up the wide gap in un- 
fayourablo situations. I had four small circular beds of it, 
with Coleus Verschaffelti in their contres, and they were pro- 
nounced charming by all who saw them. I shall hold this to 
be my best white bedder until I get some of the white-flower- 


ing variegated Geraniums. I think this Viola is best raised 
from seed every spring, as plants from seed grow much stronger, 
come into bloom later, and continue longer in flower than 
those raised from cuttings. I find the beauty of the plants 
propagated in the latter way is over before the other bed- 
ders are at perfection. I found last year that many of the 
old plants and those from cuttings died off. I should Jike to 
know if this was general.—J. T., Maesgwynne, South Wales. 


INSIDE PARIS. 


Ir will interest many of our readers to know that Dr. Hogg 
has received by balloon post, from Paris, a letter dated January 
7th, from M. Henry Vilmorin, a name widely known and much 
honoured in the world of horticulture. M. Vilmorin says— 
‘‘ We were leading a happy contented life when all was suddenly 
disturbed, our household broken up, my wife sent far south, 
my brothers called to arms, and I remained here alone. I 
cannot give myself as an instance of peculiar misery, yet see 
what has fallen to my share. I had to leave Verriéres, leaving 
all my usual work incomplete, many things were lost of course, 
aad studies were broken, making much work already done 
useless. Several most important collections of ours will be 
more or less completely lost. Now the Prussians are at 
Verriéres, but we hear that the place is turned into a military 
hospital and not much damaged. Les Barres also has been 
occupied, and perhaps is still so. 

‘« My wife left early in September, and went with our little 
daughter Elizabeth, to Dax. Maurice joined in August the 
Gth Battalion of Garde Mobile de Seine et Oise, to which he 
belonged, although never before drilled, or even armed. 
Philippe had to go to Cherbourg in the beginning of Septem- 
ber to enter the corps of Marines. I have heard only once 
from my wife since she left, she was well and baby, and 0 was 
Philippe, but we were not told where he was. As a married 
man, I am only in the Garde Nationale, and being mounted 
act as estafette. We seldom ride out of Paris. Our service is 
yery safe, and sometimes very interesting; we like it and find 
that the hardest thing is to get food for our horses. It is very 
mnpleasant also to be stormed at with shot and shell in our 
houses, as is the case now. I sincerely hope that no wider 
difficulties will arise out of the present unhappy war, and that 
your country will be able to settle peaceably all the impending 
questions at the Conference.” 


MONPLAISIR AND OTHER TEA ROSES. 


Your correspondent on Tea Rose culture (page 43) wishes to 
know something about Monplaisir; he complains of its shy- 
ness, and raggedness when open. When this Rose was intro- 
duced I planted it as I plant the rest of my Tea Roses—that 
is, in a bed fully exposed to the sun, but well sheltered from 
all winds, and I had then the same complaints to find as your 
correspondent. I could not get it to open in the house nor cut 
of doors; it certainly was of better shape outside than under 
glass. The following year I potted early a large plant in a 
pot that would only just hold the roots, with plenty of drain- 
age; and a month before I turned my bedding plants out I 
plunged Rose and pot where it was to stand, with, 1 am glad 
to say, much better success. I donot think Thad more bloom, 
but what I had opened well, and when that is the case you see 
a magnificent Rose both in form and colour. Monplaisir is a 
seedling from Gloire de Dijon, but how fertilised Ido not know; 
the growth is very vigorous, and so pleased am I with it, that 
I intend planting six more. Evidently it does well if the 
roots are pot-bound, and from my experience I advise your 
correspondent to try my plan. 

I do not agree with your correspondent in planting his Tea 
Roses facing the east; my estimate of these Roses is to give 
them a fully-exposed open situation, away from winds, and in 
the very hottest and driest time of the summer to give plenty of 
water, and occasionally liquid manure. It is also a good plan 
after planting to cover the beds or borders with very rotten 
dung to the depth of 4 inches.—Rosa oponata. 


SPAWN OF MUSHROOM BED ECCENTRIC. 

Uron looking through my Mushroom house this morning, 
I find that the bed which was made about five weeks ago is 
almost entirely covered with spawn in the shape of white 
‘‘thread-like” mould. In some parts where the lumps of 


Sanuary 26, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


65 


spawn were deposited, thousands of little Mushrooms the size 
of pin heads are pushing themselves up one above another. 
IT have grown Mushrooms for years, but never before saw such 
masses together. My question is, Would it be advisable for 
me to put more soil on the bed, or will the Mushrooms now 
pushing up come to maturity without farther aid? My house 
is about 9 feet wide, lean-to, walk 2 feet wide down the centre, 
beds each side 3 feet 3 inches wide by 1 foot 4inches deep. A 
flow and return pipe runs round the house, inside, ata distance 
of about 2 feet 6 inches from the bottom of thebed. The beds 
were made of two-thirds good horse droppings, and one-third 
maiden soil, well mixed. I spawned in pieces 4 inches apart. 
—D. W., Sheffield. 

{In such a case the fresh moulding would not be advisable. 
We would take a clean hard hair broom, leave the knots of 
young Mushrooms you allude to, and sweep off clean all the 
Spreading spawn besides on the surface of the bed. Most likely 
the bed willthen produce. We have had several such instances, 
and adopted the treatment stated.—Ebs. | 


SELECTIONS OF GRAPES.—No. 2. 


Vines iN Hzarnp Hovses.—These houses may be of several 
descriptions—viz., 1, Greenhouses and other structures used 
for plant-growing and storing plants in winter, the borders 
being, as a rule, wholly outside. 2, Vineries used as store- 
houses for plants in winter and for growing them in summer, 
but with the borders inside as well ag outside, the Vines being 
planted inside. 3, Vineries proper, by which I moan that Grapes 
are treated as the sole object, or, if other subjects are introduced, 
these are such as will not interfere with good Grape-cullivation. 

1. Greenhouses or Houses Employed for Plant Culture Winter 
and Summer.—These have the borders outside, and generally 
are only suitable for the hardiest sorts and such as may be 
termed summer varieties, for, from the moisture caused by the 
plants and the borders being outside, the late-hanging kinds 
cannot be preserved from premature decay. White Grapes.— 
Chasselas Vibert, borries round, large; strong grower, and free- 
bearing. Foster’s White Seedling, berries roundish-oval and 
of good size. Buckland Sweetwater, berries round, large; great 
bearer. General della Marmora, berries large, round; great 
bearer. Black Grapes.—¥Frankenthal, berries roundish-oval, 
bunches and berries large. Black Prince, berries oval, long 
bunches. Black Champion, berries roundish-oval, long bunches; 
it is earlier than the Frankenthal by about a fortnight. Trent- 
ham Black, berries large, oval. Black Hamburgh, berries 
roundish-oval ; free-bearing. 

‘The above are the kinds I have found succeeding best in 
entirely outside borders and in houses devoted to plant-culture, 
but with Vines for shade and utility. Of course there are many 
other kinds that succeed tolerably well in outside borders, but 
from their liability to spotting and shanking I think it best to 
omit them. I am aware that not very long ago outside borders 
wore the rule, but now they are the exception. No one will 
advocate outside planting. It may sometimes be a necessity, 
but in no case is it advisable. Good Grapes were grown with 
Vine roots in outside borders; now we have a better order of 
things, aad if no finer Grapes are grown we know they are 
obtained with greater regularity and certainty. 

2. Vineries used as plant houses, but with borders partly 
inside as well as outside, the Vines planted inside. It ig almost 
unnecessary to say that all the varieties named for outside- 
border-planting will answer admirably, and are what I advise 
for planting a house intended to afford Grapes in July, the 
Vines being started early in February; and to those named I 
would add—White Frontignan, berries round, medium-sized, 
with the full Frontignan flavour; free bearer. Muscat Ham- 
burgi, berries oval, black, with Muscat flavour. Bowood Mus- 
eat, berries large, oval. The last two do fairly in the same 
house with Hamburghs and succeed them, but are best in a 
house by themselves along with other kinds requiring a higher 
temperature; therefore for a supply in August, September, and 
onwards, if there is a house for an earlier crop, the following 
are excellent—viz., Muscat of Alexandria, berries oval, well 
known ; Bowood Muscat; and White Tokay, berries large, oval. 
These are white Grapes. Black kinds.are Black Muscat of 
Alexandria (Muscat Hamburgh) ; Mrs. Pince, berries oval, a 
fine late kind, but good in September or when ripe; Black 
Alicante, berries roundish-oval, bunches large ; Lady Downe’s, 
berries oval, large ; West’s St. Peter’s, berries large, roundish- 
oval; Mill Hill Hamburgh, berries round, large. The foregoing 

\ € 


even with plants, keep until the New Year, the best two for 
hanging being Lady Downe’s and Mrs. Pince, 

Although plants may be grown in a vinery, there are times 
when it would be better both for the plants and Vines if the 
former were removed; indeed it is hardly possible to ripen Grapes 
perfectly without a dryness of atmosphere which is unfavour- 
able to plant culture. Therefore, as soon as the Grapes change 
colour remove all plants in active growth, but such subjects as 
Gloxinias and Achimenes, which need heat with a drier atmo- 
sphere for ripening the growths, may remain with advantage. 
I find no place so good as a vinery in which Grapes are ripen- 
ing in July and August, for ripening off Amaryllids; and these 
do not interfere with the ripening of the Grapes, for they need 
no water, or but little. It is also the best place for ripening the 
growths of winter-flowering Begonias. The moisture necessary 
for plant-culture is not only detrimental to the ripening of the 
Grapes, but also injuriously affects their keeping and the ripen- 
ing of the wood. If the wood were properly ripened we should 
hear less of the’bunches curing up like tendrils and of bad- 
setting kinds needing artificial aid. Asa rule, there are but 
few evils to which the Vine is subject that do not originate 
from the immature growths of the previous year. 

3. Vineries.—In these the borders are inside and outside the 
house, the Vines being planted inside. The varieties may be 
divided into three sections—viz., Early, Midseason, and Late. 

Early varieties, or those which bear forcing well, and can be 
depended on to give Grapes of fine quality by forcing from 
March to July inclusive, are the following :—Buckland Sweet- 
water; Foster’s White Seedling; Trovéren Frontignan, berries 
roundish-oval, large bunches; White Frontignan, which ripens 
in the same house a fortnight before Buckland Sweetwater, 
but is not so fine a Grape as the Trovéren, which is, un- 
doubtedly, the finest of all the Frontignans; Golden Ham- 
burgh, berries roundish-oval, large; Golden Champion, very 
large bunches and berries, and as free-bearing as the Black 
Hamburgh; Black Champion; Black Hamburgh; Franken- 
thal (Pope’s, or Victoria Hamburgh); Due de Magenta, berries © 
oval, large bunches; Royal Ascot, berries oval, bunches not 
large, but very free-bearing. All these force well. I have 
omitted the Royal Muscadine, as I consider it superseded by 
Foster’s White Seedling. For the successful forcing of Grapes 
I consider it well to have heated borders, especially if part of 
these are outside. For very early forcing, and where there 
are no heated borders, have the Vines in pots. Those which 
answer well for early forcing in pots are Buckland Sweetwater ; 
Barly Smyrna Frontignan, berries round, not large, but very 
early; White Frontignan; and Karly White Malvasia, berries 
oval, but somewhat rounded, a great bearer. These are white 
Grapes. Of black kinds I would have Hrankenthal, Black 
Hamburgh, Black Champion, Royal Ascot, and Duc de Magenta. 
It is desirable that pot Vines for early forcing should have the 
pots about three parts plunged in a bed of leaves or other 
fermenting material, but it will answer if the pots be set on hot- 
water pipes, though in a bed of fermenting materials the roots 
extend beyond the pots, and the produce is larger and finer. 

Midseason Grapes, or those affording a supply from July 
to October, I would divide into three sections—viz., Museats, 
Frontignans, and those haying none of the Muscat or Fron- 
tignan flavour. 

Museats can hardly be produced in good condition before July. 
I would haye Bowood Muscat, Muscat of Alexandria, Muscat 
Hscholata, perhaps identical with Muscat of Alexandria, but if 
there is any difference, it is in the berries being more even- 
sized, and the bunches stouter; Tynningham Muscat in no way 
different from that excellent Grape the Bowood Muscat, but 
with berries larger than the Muscat of Alexandria, very often 
pear-shaped, and deeper in colour when fully ripe ; Black Muscat 
of Alexandria (Muscat Hamburgh) ; Mrs. Pince; and Madresfield 
Court Muscat, berries, oval, large, jet black, with a splendid 
bloom. The last two are very valuable for hanging late, 
exquisite in flayour when fully ripe, and never finer (nor, 
indeed, are any of the Muscats) than they are in Augusi and 
September. 

Of Frontignans—Trovéren Frontignan, the finest of all. 
Duchess of Buccleuch, berries round, not large. White Fron- 
tignan. Chasselas Musqué, berries round, undoubtedly the 
richest-flavoured Grape in cultivation. It is liable to crack, 
bat that may be obviated by grafting on the Grizzly Frontignan. 
Black Frontignan, berries round, small, bunches long and 
tapering. Purple Constantia, berries round, larger than Black 
Frontignan. Grizzly Frontignan, berries round ; free bearer. 
The Frontignans require a dry, warm border, especially when 


66 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 26, 1871. 


ripening, and to ripen perfectly they require a high tempe- 
rature, especially by day, a dry atmosphere, and, of course, 
abundance of air. From their liability to crack the berries 
should be well thinned. The border may with advantage be 
formed of one-fourth chalk, in lumps from the size of a walnut 
to that of a hen’s egg. 

Other kinds, neither Muscats nor Frontignans, I must again 
divide into those noé requiring much heat, and those which do. 

Kinds not requiring strong heat are—Black Hamburgh, 
Frankenthal, Black Prince, Duc de Magenta, Trentham Black, 
and Black Champion, all black; Buckland Sweetwater, Genoral 
della Marmora, Golden Champion, Golden Hamburgh, and 
Foster’s White Seedling, all white or slightly amber-coloured. 
These ripen in August if assisted with a slight fire heat during 
March, and later in cold periods snd when ripening, constant 
fire heat not being necessary for successful ripening. 

Kinds requiring heat are—Mill Hill Hamburgh, a fine Grape, 
the finest of all the Hamburghs; West’s St. Peter’s; White 
Tokey ; and White Nice. These require a temperature averag- 
ing 5° higher than is necessary for the Black Hamburgh and 
the other varieties just named. 

Of late Grapes, the Muscats must take precedence. I recom- 
mend Mascat of Alexandria, Bowood Muscat, Mrs. Pince, and 
Madresfield Court Muscat (the first two are not in good order after 
Christmas—all four I would have in a house by themselves); 
Lady Downe’s; Biack Alicante, berries roundish-oval, large, 
also bunches; West’s St. Peter’s; Burchardt’s Prince, berries 
oval, medium-sized, bunches long; Barbarossa [Gros Guil- 
laume], berries round, large, enormous bunches; Trebbiano, 
berries oval, large, bunches enormous; Syrian, berries oval, 
bunches largest of all; Calabrian Raisin, or Raisin de Calabre, 
berries round, lerge; Royal Vineyard, berries round, medium- 
sized, bunches long, 

The Syrian, Trebbiano, and Royal Vineyard, may be objected 
to on account of their poor flavour. In my opinion the Syrian 
when weil ripened is as good as many others, and it and 
Trebbiano, for variety of dessert, are indispensable late in the 
season when there is no other white kind so good as Trebbiano. 
Royal Vineyard on the same score is also excellent for late pur- 
poses. 
good in flayour as many, yet its enormous bunches always 
command attention whether on the Vine or at the dessert. 

In conclusion, I would direct attention to the advisability of, 
as far as practicable, growing in one house only kinds requiring 
a similar temperature. Frequently we see an extensive vinery 
planted with nearly every kind of Grape, and some not doing 
so well as they otherwise would had the house been divided by 
@ partition of glass, and the varieties requiring least heat 
placed in one part, and those needing most heat in the other. 
There can be no objection to this arrangement, as the expense 
of a division is but trifling, and the modifications needed in 
the heating apparatus will not involye an expense that should 
deter anyone from adopting the separate system. It is owing 
to mixed planting and growing in one vinery kinds requiring 
different temperatures, that some kinds have not their proper 
place in popular estimation. For instance, Canon Hall Muscat 
is rarely seen in good condition, and its companion Black 
Damascus is little better. Both have one fault—i.e., non- 
setting. What would they be were they grown in a house by 
themselves, their roots in a heated border, and with a tem- 
perature 5° higher than is given to Muscats ?—G. ABBEY. 


OBTAINING MOIST HEAT. 


I HAyE 2 small propagating frame inside a warm house, with 
a flow and return round the house, and I have enclosed part of 
one end of the pipes with bricks, and put a frame on the top, 
coyering the pipes with blue slate to support the soil for the 
cuttings; but I find it is too dry, and burns up the cuttings 
before they are rooted. I thought of having a zinc trough filled 
with water to fit inside the frame on the pipes, say 6 inches in 
depth, and then to put the slates on the top to obtain a moist 
heat. By haying a tap at one endI might take the chill off the 
water before watering.—Younc Brainner. 


[You can have all the moist bottom heat you want by merely 
zunning a waterproofed rim round the slate, say 1 inch deep, 
cover it with small pebbles, and on that set the pots, with what 
plunging material you think best—not to make heat, but merely 
to retain it. A small pipe will enable you to keep the slate and 
the pebbles moist. Your proposed substitution of a small tank 
will answer, but if you cover the top securely your heat will be 


White Nice is well worth growing, though it is not so- 


as dry a8 from the slate. With a tank, acover of zinc or plate 
iron pierced with holes would be best.—Eps, } 


SLOW COMBUSTION AND ECONOMY IN FUEL. 


My houso is a span-roof, 17 feet long and 9 feet wide, heated 
by a flue which runs round three sides under the stage. There 
is no ashpit door, and no damper. J at first tried stopping up 
the ashpit opening, after I had obtained a good fire, by loose 
bricks, slates, or anything else that came to hand. This 
answered pretty well, but I could never thoroughly depend 
upon it. Occasionally I found a too vigorous fire, and the 
thermometer inside registering 70°; or the fire burnt quite out 
in afew hours. The plan I now adept answers much better. 
I leave the ashpit always open, and thoroughly cleared out. 
I obtain a good, large, bright fire, and keep it bright if the 
thermometer is lower than I wish it to be, until it rises to the 
desired height, which it will do in a very short time; 1 ther 
throw on four or five shovelsful of fine ashes; 1 prefer the 
ashes wet if the night is likely to be cold, as they burn rather 
better thanif dry. Ifthe weather is mild, and I am anxious to 
keep the heat dowa, I use dry ashes, and leave the furnace- 
door about 2 or 3 inches open. I have frequently so left my 
fire at six o’clock in the evening, and found it still alight at 
three o’clock the next afternoon, and a nice steady heat main- 
tained.—X, Y. Z. 


[There are many roads leading to one place. We know your 
plan will answer, but it is a wasteful one, as when a furnace- 
door is left open, the air that freely passes over tha fire cools 
the flue, and there is a consequent loss of fuel. We approve 
of getting-up the desired heat at once, and then having a slow. 
combustion where a regular heat is wanted in continuous 
frosty weather. Why not secure the same result more easily 
and better by having a common, close-fitting ashpit-door, wher 
you can regulate draught? You need no damper for a flue 
then. We generally use ashes for backing-up.—Hps. ] 


CONSEQUENCES OF THE WINTER. 


Now that the effects of the severe frost are pretty well known 
and felt throughout the country, it will be interesting and 
profitable to report from various parts to what extent we have 
suffered, and the lowest degree of temperature registered. 

On the night of the 23rd of December our thermometer fell 
to 1° Fahrenheit, and on the 24th to 1° below zero. On both 
days we had a heavy fall of snow to the depth of 1 foot. Com- 
mon Laurels, Aucubas, and Laurustinus are all severely injured 
—not a green leaf to be seen on them, and it will be a difficult 
matter to know how to cut them until the new growth com- 
mences. The Deodars are all severely injured, and musi lose 
all their leaves, and I fear many of our choice Roses will be 
killed ; a fine plant of Maréchal Neil on a south wall is killed, 
while one on a north wall appears to be unhurt. 

What will most affect us at present (and to this I wish to 
draw particular attention), is the loss of our vegetable crops, as 
Broccoli, Savoys, and Brussels Sprouts. Cabbage stalks are 
all killed, and we are glad to bury them to get rid of the un- 
pleasant smell. Young Cabbages which were well covered with 
snow are injured, but will recover if milder weather come. 

Any suggestions which can be offered by your correspondents 
as to the best and quickest method of providing substitutes 
for the losses we cannot repair, will, 1am sure, be thankfully 
received by those who may have suffered to the same extent as 
we haye done here in East Kent. I will conclude these few 
remarks by suggesting a substitute for Peas, which I haye 
heard of and am about to try—that is, to sow any common 
Peas in boxes in heat, and use the young green tops as a yege- 
table.—Wint1an ADDERLEY, The Gardens, Bourne Park, Can- 


terbury. 


Tue Canpacn.—The close-headed variety, which is now more 
peculiarly called Cabbage, was for many years imported into 
England from Holland. Sir Anthony Ashley first introduced 
its cultivation, and made the English independent of their 
neighbours for a supply. This planter of Cabbages likewise 
made his name known by other deeds less creditable to his 
character. It is related that he had a command at Cales 
(Cadiz), where he got much by rapine, especially from a lady 
who entrusted her jewels to his honour; whence the jest on 
him (like on Butler about the spoons, whether true or false). 
Tho saying is, that he, Sir Ashley, got more by ‘ Cales” than 
by “Cab” and Cabbage. As tailors are said to be fond of 


January 26, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


67 


“Cabbage,” may not this circumstance have given rise to the 
accusation of ‘‘cabbaging,’”’ when cloth entrusted to them was 
appropriated to their own use? It is recorded that Cabbage 
was first introduced into the North of Scotland by the soldiers 
of Cromwell. Scotland is more peculiarly the ‘land of Kale.” 
Old Scotch songs point to the fact. The poet says :— 
‘ “ There’s cauld Kale in Aberdeen, 
An’ castock’s in Stra’ bogie.” 

These castocks are the Cabbage stems, having the fibrous 
parts peeled off, and the remainder softened by boiling. Sauer 
kraut, that excellent preparation of the Germans, is merely 
fermented Cabbage.—(American Gardener's Monthly.) 


[The tradition can be traced far back towards the time in 
which Sir A. Ashley lived. There is a globular reticulated 
figure on his monument in the church of Wimborne St. Giles, 
which the tradition says was intended to represent a Cabbage, 
and it certainly is move like the globular heart of a Savoy than 
a ‘“‘cannon ball,” for no artist would represent this even for 
effect with a netted surface, A correspondent who wrote about 
the monument in Notes and Queries says :—‘‘ Evelyn, in his 
«« Acotaria,” calls Sir Anthony ‘Sir Arth. Ashley, of Wiburg 
St. Giles.” He says:—‘Tis scarce an hundred years since 
we first had Cabbages out of Holland; Sir Arth. Ashley, of 
Wiburg St. Giles, in Dorchester, being, as I am told, the first 
who planted them in England.’ ‘ Acetavia’ was published in 
1699; so that, according to Hyelyn, Cabbages were first brought 
to this country about 1599, between which date and 1627 (when 
Sir A. Ashley died) they had been introduced by him into 
Hngland.”—Eps. ] 


CUTTINGS OF EVERGREENS FOR BEDS IN 
WINTER. 

I wonprr if any of your readers have adopted a plan of 
making bare beds cheerful in the winter by filling them with 
evergreen cuttings? The effect in comparatively small beds is 
admirable, and Iam sure anyone who tries this plan would be 
astonished to find how long they keep fresh and bright in the 
winter. I would strongly recommend a trial where evergreens 
are available. Aucubas, Laurustinus, Hollies, Ivies, common 
and Portugal Laurels, variegated Holly, Carnation cuttings, 
and innumerable other plants which will suggest themselves 
to the horticulturist, will be found most effective for such winter 
decoration. The snow on my beds has now entirely thawed, 
and I was greatly astonished to find how the cuttings had with- 
stood the hard frost to which they had been subjected ; in fact, 
they look as fresh now (January 17th) ag though they had just 
been inserted. 

I first saw the plan adopted upon an extensive scale ina 
friend’s garden, and his gardener informed me that the cuttings 
are placed in the beds immediately after the bedding plants 
have been removed and the bulbs planted, and that they re- 
main quite fresh until the spring bulbs appear.—Horraror. 


TREATMENT OF CAMELLIAS. 


REFERRING to tho latter part of the communication by ‘‘ Rusx,”’ 
{see vol. xix., page 469), respecting Camellias, I wonder at any 
one turning Camellias into hot pits when making their young 
growth. I have just had brought under my notice the cage of a 
batch of young Camellias which were put in the Orchid house 
for the last two years when they ceased flowering, and the 
consequence is that one-half of them have no flowers now, and 
they are but a trifle larger as plants than they were two years 
since. I do not wonder at this, as let a plant remain in a tem- 
perate greenhouse or conservatory, when it is ready it will grow 
—that is, of course, everything else being suitable. And in addi- 
tion to objecting to turning Camellias into heat I object to the 
use of peat. Tho best Camellias I ever saw were those for 
which no peat was used. 


the heayy drenching rains. This is a subject on which too 
much cannot be said.—SrupHen Castux, Bent Hilt Gardens, 
Prestwich. 


ECONOMY OF FUEL. 


I niaut my fire, putting on a little coal so as to make a nice 
fire, having all the dampers out. When the water is hot, I put 
on fuel which I have previously prepared, and which consists 
of the dust and chips of the coals used in the household. I take 
the dust mixed with cinders and dampedalittle. Ifill my stove 
up to the top, close the slide that goes over the ash-pan hole all 
but an inoh, also pushing in another damper, which goes in at 
the elbow of the flue-pipe, allowing about an inch for the smoke, 
but, of course, this requires attention to keep the flue-pipe 
free from soot. I also clear out the clinkers. I always make 
it a rule the last thing at night—say, at 10 o’clock, to stir up the 
fire and clear out the clinkers. With this management the fire 
lasts eight hours, burning regularly, and leaving nothing but 
clinkers in the fireplace in the morning, whilst the tempera- 
ture of the house in the morning is 40°. Shouldit be a severe 
frost, I rise about 7 a.u., go down to the stove, clean it out, 
stir up the fire, and add a little wood and a little small coal. 
My management of the stove is on the eight-hour system, 
and I consider my heating costs. only my own trouble, for the 
ashes used to be taken away. Now that I have the boiler I 
have them sifted, and I no longer see wasted, as with my neigh- 
bours, lumps of nice coal not burnt out which by a little ma- 
nagement can be used.—-A. B. 


[A small house like yours requires, no doubt, personal at- 
tendance to heat it economically with a boiler. In many such 
cases & pipe from a kitchen boiler would be sufficient. We are 
glad you have succeeded go well. We have no doubt the water- 
barrel so frequently running ever the roots of the Vine causes 
the berries to crack. Why not move the barrel, or take a large- 
enough pipe fromit into adrain, or away from the border ?—Eps. J 


ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY’S MEETING. 


THE first meeting of the new year was held at Burlington House on 
the 2nd inst., the President, Mr. A. R. Wallace, being in the chair. 
Amongst the donations to the Society's library received since the last 
meeting were the continuation of Sepp’s beautiful work on the trans- 
formations of Lepidopterous insects by M. Snellen yan Vollenhoven, 
the twelfth volume of Mr. Stainton’s work on British Tineina, and the 
“Entomologists’ Annual” for 1870, edited by the same author. 

Mr. Butler exhibited a series of Lepidopterous insects recently 
received from Fantee, in tropical Western Africa, by Mr. Swanzy, 
including apparently new species of Godaria, Kurynome, Mylothris, 
and Belenois, species of which two last-named genera of ‘‘ Whites” 
appeared to Mr. Butler to mimic each other. Mr. Bates, however, 
considered the apparent mimicry to be simply the result of the close 
affinity of the species. A beautiful new Moth of large size, allied to 
the Saturnia lucina of Drury, was also contained in the collection, 
which Mr. Butler proposed to name Brahmea Swanzyi. Mr. Boyd 
exhibited a variety of Colias Edusa in which the black spot of the fore 
wings was obliterated. 

Professor Westwood described a Geometrideous larva, of which he 
could find no published description, which he had observed boring & 
cylindrical hole into Rose buds in the summer. He also noticed that , 
Sepp had illustrated the parasitism of a two-winged fly of the genus 
Anthrax upon ® Moth belonging to the genus Agrotis (A. porphyrea). 
Hitherto the genus had been supposed to be parasitic only upon bees. 

A paper containing descriptions of five new species of Diurnal Le- 
pidoptera by Mr. Hewitson was read. 


A specimen of Plusia interrogationis, taken by Mr. Jenner, was 
exhibited by Mr. Verrall. 


ANOMALOUS PLANTS. 


Nzarty thirty years have passed since I was walking, during 
the cool of the evening, in the Botanic Garden of Calcutta. — 
with its genial curator, Dr. Wallich. We nad rested tinder 
that tree—a grove of itseli—the Banian, and talked of ‘“ Giant 
Plants; we had gazed on the Amherstie, admired its pale 
green foliage, pendulous clusters of pink flowers, and long, 
slender, weeping branches waving before the gentle breeze, 
and we agreed thatit is the worthiest representative of ‘* Grace- 
ful Plants.” It was our humour then to note such representa- 
tives, and we visited the Plantain and Cotton shrubs as worthy 
members of the ‘‘ Useful Plants,’ and the Upas, of fabled 
power, you worthy by ite virulence to represent ‘‘ Poisonous 


68 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 26, 1871. 


of the Night-blooming Cereus with which the trelliage was 
partly covered. ‘‘ That,” observed the Doctor, ‘“ represents 
‘Anomalous Plants.’ ” 

I think that evening’s stroll and fanciful grouping of plants 
had not recently been remembered by me until, walking round 
the Horticultural Society’s conservatory at South Kensington, 
I came to two cases of ‘‘ Anomalous Plants,” a gift to the Society 
from Dr. Waggett. They contain exclusively species of the 
natural order to which the Night-blooming Cereus belongs— 
the Cactacez. The remembrance thus awakened led to a re- 
ference to notes made at the time of relative observations by 
Dr. Wallich, and extracts from works to which he referred me; 
and these would have again slumbered had I not seen in Nature 
an engraving of the Cereus giganteus, taken from Mr. Bell’s 
book, published by Messrs. Chapman & Hall, entitled ‘‘ New 
Tracks in North America.’’* 

Most characteristic is the title, ‘‘ Anomalous plants,” ap- 
plied to the Cactaces. Of the five hundred species, less than 


a dozen have any leaves, and that dozen belong to one genus, 


Pereskia, the Barbadoes Gooseberry—they are all stems and 
They | 


branches, and these assume most ‘‘ anomalous” forms. 
are globular in 
the Melocactida, 
Melon Thistles ; 
they are cclumn- 
like in the Cerei- 
dex, Torch This- 
tles ; and they are 
planiform in the 
Opuntiz, Prickly 
Pears. They vary 
in size from a few 
inches to 40 or 
more feet; some 
creep along the 
soil’s surface, and 
others are as erect 
and high eas may- 
poles. Leaflessand 
thus without the 
usual means of ab- 
sorbing moisture 
from the rains and 
dews, yet they are 
among the most 
juicy of plants, re- 
tain their succu- 
lence in the hot- 
test climates and 
the most parched 
soils, and are there 
the chief sources 
of refreshment to 
men and animals, 
This and other 
characteristics of F 
the Cactacez I find in the following extract from M. Meyen :— 


“Nature has tried to make up for the imperfections in the form of 
these plants by the profuseness and splendour of their flowers, for 
often it seems as if their whole effort was to produce the greatest 
possible quantity of the gorgeous flowers, with which they are so often 
completely covered. The extraordinary effect on the physiognomy of 
vegetation, which is produced by the contrast of the Cactus forms with 
the other groups of plants, is seen not only in nature, but also every- 
where in our gardens. 

“Tn Chili and Pern there are wide plains, which for vast distances, 
are covered solely by groups of pillar-like Cerei, and thus present a 
singular and striking, though cheerless prospect. In the Llanura de 
Rancagua, lying to the south of the Rio Cachapnal in Chili, only a 
few Cavén-bushes (Acacia cayen, Mol.), grow amongst these Cerei, 
which are often covered with the scariet Sewers of Loranthus aphyllus, 
from amongst which hang the long, white flowers of the Cereus. When 
travelling in the interior of Chili we often bivouacked near these 
Cerei, and their dry woody cylinders furnished the best fuel for our 
fires. The wood of these plants attains a thickness of 1 or 14 inch, 
and the whole cylinder is as much as 12 or 15 inches in circumference. 
The wood of the Cactus is applied to the most various purposes in the 
treeless regions of the western coast of South America. As it is very 
light, it is carried up the Cordilleras, and on the plateaux, which lie 
far above all arborescent vegetation, doors and beams are made of it 
without any previous working. 


ed 


* Messrs. Chapman & Hall haye obligingly enabled us to illustrate our 
correspondent’s notes with that engraving —EDs, 


Cereus giganteus. 


“The columnar Cacti ascend high up the Cordilleras. I have 
found them on the Cordilleras of Southern Pern, close to the equator, 
above the heights of 7000 and 8000 feet, and these are also the most 
beautiful forms which I have ever seen.” 


Among these is the Cereus giganteus, or Monumental 
Cactus, which is thus noticed by Mr. A. Smith, in ‘The 
Treasury of Botany” :— 

“Tt is the Suwarrow or Saguaro of the Mexicans, the largest and 
most striking species of the genus. It is a native of the hot, arid, and 
almost desert regions of New Mexico, extending from Souora, in lat. 
30° N., to Williams River, in lat. 35° N., and found growing in rocky 
valleys and upon mountain sides, often springing out from mere 
crevices in the hard rock, and imparting a singular aspect to the 
scenery of the country, its tall stems with upright branches looking 
like telegraphic posts for signalling from point to point of the Rocky 
Mountains. While young the stems are of a globular form, gradually 
becoming club-shaped, and ultimately almost cylindrical, and from 
50 to 60 feet in height, with a diameter of abont 2 feet at middle 
height, and gradually tapering both upwards and downwards to about 
1 foot. They are most frequently unbranched, but some of the oldes 
ones have branches, which issue at right angles from the stem and 
then curve upwards and grow parallel with it. The stems are regularly 
ribbed or fluted, the 
ribs varying in num- 
ber from twelve to 
twenty, and have, at 
intervals of about 
an inch, thick yellow 
cushions bearing five 
or six large and 
many smaler spines. 
The flowers are pro- 
duced near the sum- 
mit of the stems and 
branches, and are 
about 4 or 5 inches 
long, by 3 or 4 in 
diameter, having 
light cream-coloured 
petals. The, fruits 
are about 2 or 3 ins. 
long, of a green co- 
lour and oval form, 
haying a broad scar 
at the top caused by 
the flowers falling 
away; when ripe 
they burst into three 
or four pieces, which 
curve back so as to 
resemble a flower. 
Inside they contain 
numerous little 
black seeds imbed- 
ded in a crimson- 
coloured pulp, which 
the Pimos and Pa- 
pagos Indians make 
into an excellent pre- 
serve ; and they also 
eat the ripe fruit as 
an article of food, gathering it by means of a forked stick tied to the 
end of a long pole.” 


Referring again to M. Meyen’s work, he remarks :— 


‘‘TIn perfect contrast to the long, slender form of the candelabra- 
like Cacti, are the spherical genera Melocactus, Echinocactus, and 
Mammillaria. These plants are spherical, haying warts and spines 
arranged in a stellate form regularly distributed over the whole sur- 
face; they are often of enormous size, and are seated directly on the 
barren ground, or in the clefts of bare rocks. These singular plants 
seem to thrive best in the most desert regions, where all other vege- 
tation ceases; and in hot countries, where almost all vegetation dis- 
appears during the dry season, they are as fresh and green as at the 
time when there was the greatest abundance of water. As their stc- 
culent tissue contains a great quantity of watery sap, they are eagerly 
sought after and sucked by the thirsty animals, which roam over the 
dry deserts of Sonth America. In kicking off the prickly coat, these 
animals often injure themselves so much that they can no longer 
move about, and at last die. At times when there is a want of water, 
travellers usually open these jnicy plants, which have been called the 
springs of the desert, with their knives, and thus enable the animals 
to enjoy the sap without danger. 

“ Just as characteristic are the great unshapely and many-branched 
Tunas; the Cactus Ficus-indica, Z. and Opuntia Tuna, with its long 
snines. are the best known forms of this group of the Cactacem. These 
plants have found their way to Enrope, in the south of which they are 
now naturalised. In Europe as well as in Americe they are used for 
making fences, and there is, perhaps, scarcely anything which auswers 
this purpose better, for they have even been successfully applied to 


N 


January 26, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


69 


the purpose of military defences—vyiz., as chevaux-de-frise. Their 
cultivation is of the greatest importance in desert and barren countries, 
as they delight in the very driest soils, and not only produce an 
abundance of edible fruit, but also a considerable quantity of firewood. 
" These Tunas hedges are also used for breeding the American Cochi- 
neal insect, and are planted in some provinces of Mexico to a very 
great extent for this purpose, as formerly the exportation of cochineal 
from that country was very large.”—G. 


SLOW-COMBUSTION STOVE. 


As some of my friends have had stoves made upon a model 
I devised about two years since, and as they report very fayour- 
ably of them, I think it possible some of your readers may be 
interested, and perhaps helped, by an account of my experience. 

About two years and a half ago I constructed a greenhouse 
entirely of wood and glass; length 10 feet 6 inches, breadth 
9 feet, height 9 feet to the centre of the pitched roof. The 
question of heating it arose as the winter drew on, and I gave 
an ironplate worker an order for a stove, the performance of 
which I will presently describe. Having improved upon the 
first model, I append a sectional drawing of a better form which 
has been made recently. S53 

The body of the stove consists of a cylinder of sheet iron 
6 inches in diameter, in fact a length of 6-inch iron pipe. Its 
height is 2 feet. Tho bot- 
tom has one opening in 
the centre, admitting air 
to a piece of gas-pipe 1 


long, and capped at top. 
Upon the screw at the 


are two nuts, one fitting 
above the bottom and the 
other below ; these fix the 
gas-pipe into its place. 
The upper part of this 
pipe (not the cap), is bored 
by fourteen holes about 
one-quait-r of an inch in 
diameter. The lid of the 


side the pipe and around 
the upper part is secured, 
by soft solder, 2 zine gut- 
ter about three-quarters 
of an inch deep and the 
same in width. This, 
when the stove is in use, 
is filled with water, and 
effectually prevents the 
escape of any of the products of combustion. It is desirable to 
tin, as it is technically called, that part of the pipe against which 
the water rests, a8 it will prevent oxidation. A fiue-pipe, b, 
1} inch in diameter, proceeds from the stove and contains a 
throttle, c—that is, a flat circular piece of metal, of the same 
diameter as the inside of the fiue, turning upon a pivot, so that, 
when its transverse diameter is in the same direction as the 
length of the pipe it does not impede the escaping gas, but 
when turned across the pipe it closes it. The chimney of my 
stove is of zinc, and travels from the centre of the end to the 
opposite extremity of the side of my house, and descends 
gradually during its whole course. 

T will now endeayour to explain the philosophy of the ar- 
rangements I have pointed out. The fuel chosen is charcoal 
broken small. Charcoal may be obtained of the requisite size 
for this stove at 8 lower price than in larger lumps. The char- 
coal in burning 1s converted into carbonic acid and ash. The 
ash, being that part of the wood from which the charcoal was 
made, which the tree took up from the earth, is 2 most valuable 
manure, and adds wonderfully to the power of potting soil. 
This ash falls to the bottom of the stove, and so leaves free 
the holes by which air is supplied. The carbonic acid formed 
by the union of the oxygen of the air with the carbon of the 
charcoal is about one and a half of the Specific gravity of the 
atmosphere, and so when cold it falls; butas it is produced in 
the stove at a high temperature, it is expanded and rises. As 
it passes into the chimney it cools, and, becoming heavier than 
the air, tends to descend; for this reason the chimney is made 
to slant downwards. It thus assists the draught, and acts also 
as a damper ; for if the fire should be dull the chimney pours out 
its heavy well-cooled charge of carbonic acid, and so draws up 


a, Gutter. 
ce, Throttle valve. 


6, Chimney. 
d, Handle, 


inch in diameter, 4 inches | . : 
| formation respecting them.—F’. Cursuire, A.C.P. 


lower part of this gas-pipe | 


stove fits loosely; and out- | 
| mittee should lay down some specific course of action. 


the fire; but if the fire be burning fiercely the heat is not 
expended so readily, and the carbonic acid when it has reached 
the chimney, still tending to rise, has to be forced out by the 
rising hotter air in the stove, and this checks the combustion. 

The object of the throttle has already been hinted at. By. 
its means the fire may be governed as easily as an ordinary 
gas-burner. 

When my stove was finished I lighted and filled it, and turn- 
ing the throttle very low left it untouched, watching how long 
it would burn. It continued alight for a hundred hours. The 
amount of heat given was very small, but my experiment was 
to ascertain the lowest combustion attainable. In ordinary 
frosts I light my fire about nine at night, and next morning 
put on about a quart of charcoal, turn the throttle very low, 
and about seven in the evening pour the contents of the stove 
into a fine round garden sieve. I riddle the lighted contents, 
and so get rid of the dust, pour back, and refill; and I repeat 
this day by day with what variations the weather may neces- 
sitate. The fire has never once gone out without my intending 
it during two winters, nor have my plants suffered from frost 
all through this severe weather owing to the stove failing, 
although I have had no mats on the roof, and my greenhouse 
is 100 feet at least from any building, so that it is very much 
exposed. 

There are other points which might need explanation, such as 
the method of lighting, the reason why plate iron will not answer 
for the chamber supplying air, cost of fire, &c.; but as I must 
be trespassing on your space I will leave these matters, pro- 
mising to take them up should any of your readers need in- 


DECISIONS OF THE FRUIT COMMITTEE OF 
THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 


WE are much surprised at reading the report of the Com- 
mittee’s jadgment upon the Main Crop Potato at the last meet- - 
ing, and we would like to ask under what conditions the Pota- 
toes are placed before the Committee, as all the varieties of 
this important vegetable lately submitted for their inspection 
appear to receive uniform condemnation. The system of boil- 
ing at a place where cooking is not carried on to any extent 
appears to us to be objectionable, and we think the Fruit Com- 


We recommend, as the fairest way, that a notice be given, 
“that no Potato will be judged until it has been grown in the 
Chiswick trial grounds.’’ Under the present conditions even 
this trial is no safety, because our Main Crop Potato, which is 
really a first-class variety, was grown at the Chiswick trial 
grounds in 1868, and we have reason to believe was then con- 
sidered to be one of the best, if not the best, of the red-skinned 
class. We should like to ask Mr. Barron, the garden super- 
intendent, who grew it, to write his opinion of it as grown and 
tested by him at Chiswick. We fail to see how a Potato can 
change its character in two years, and we know that when 
tested on Wednesday, the 18th, the dish of Potatoes had such 
an appearance when served up, that no gentleman would 
permit them to be placed on his table. We are strongly of 
opinion that a bad variety cannot be too soon condemned. We 
are also equally sure that all varieties should haye a fair an@ 
proper trial. Having this in view, we should like to ask why 
the report of the Chiswick trial has never been made public ?— 
James CARTER & Co. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Losz no opportunity of bringing the ground into a good 
working condition for the crops which must soon be committed 
to it. A generous soil always pays well for the extra labour of 
frequently turning it. Asparagus, @ fresh bed should now be 
planted ; a very considerable proportion of leaves should be 
useé@in the formation of the bed. The beds in cutting should 
have air freely admitted during mild weather. A crop of Beans 
should be planted in boxes or pots, which should afterwards be 
placed in a forcing house. At the same time a crop should be 
planted in the open ground where it is in good condition. 
Make a sowing of Harly Horn Carrot on a slight hotbed, to 
come in for a first crop. Where the soil is light and dry, a 
sowing may be made on a south border. Those who are short 
of old Onions, or who wish to grow some of a large size, should 
now sow some White Spanish in a box, which should be placed 
in a forcing house, The Underground sort mav now be planted, 


70 


- JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ January 25, 1871. 


Sow Peas in pots or boxes for planting out in March, also two 
crops in the open garden, one of an early variety, the other of 
an approved kind which does not come in so quickly. Sow 
another crop of Radishes in a frame where there is a little 
bottom heat, or they may be sown where Potatoes are planted. 
A crop should also now be sown on a south border. Keep up 
succession of Sea-kale and Rhubarb either by covering the 
roots with pots and fermenting material, or by planting them 
in pots and placing them under stages in the greenhouse or 
stove. The latter method has the advantage of giving much 
less trouble than the former, e great cengideration in the busy 
time which is approaching. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

Planting in every part, both against wails and in the open 
qiarters, should bs completed without delay. Mulch the newly- 
D.anted trees, and at once stake those requiring support. Prune 
and nail Apricots, and continue the same with other wall trees 
noi yet completed. The following composition is recommended 
a3 a dressing for Peach and Nectarine trees—viz., Scotch snuff, 
fresh slaked lime, sulphur vivum, of each 11b.; mix with soap- 
sads tothe consistency of paint, add sufficient soot to make the 
whole of a grey colour, and lay it on with small paint brushes. 
i suspect this composition has a more important influence than 
the destruction of insects or their eggs, as the leaves of the 

* trees to which it is applied are generally of a more heaithy ap- 
pearance throughout the summer than those leit without dress- 
ing. Whore Filberts are brought under the dominion of the 
knife and spade—by far the best method of cultivating them— 
lef all suckers be effectually removed, and some manure forked 
ia about the trees. Shorten all ihe strong shoots of last yeaz’s 
gcowth, but do not interfere with the small ones, as it is from 
these the nuts are principally produced. It is better to thin 
out the large branches if they are crowded with wood. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

Proceed as rapidly as the weather will permit with the re- 
moval and planting of large shrubs. Layering may be success- 
fully performed where the plants haye become bare and un- 
Sightly at the bottom. Fork over the borders in the shrubbery, 
Sweep and roll the grass edgings and walks, remove eyery- 
thing unsightly, and let the whole assume an air of neatness 
and order. Those who are much annoyed with worms may try 
the following receipt—Take 1 oz. of corrosive sublimate, grind 
it fine, and dissolve it in sixteen gallons ci water; then with a 
watering-can and fine rose water the turi infested. This will 
bring all the worms in a great hurry to the surface, when they 
may be picked up in a watering-czn and carried to a Gistance. 
Anemones and Ranuneoluses may be planted if the ground is 
in a dry state, and the weather mild. If the soil of the bed be 
im a poor condition, throw it out to the depih of 1 foot, place a 
layer 6 inches thick of well-rotted hotbed and cow dung, and 
Sill up the bed with fresh maiden Joam from a pasture. Before 
planting, lay the roots between the folds of a wet piece of 
ilannel for twenty-four hours. Carnations and Pinks in pots 
should be attended to; remoye all damp, and protect them 
from heavy rains. Keep Auriculas and Polyanthuses tolerably 
dry at this zeason. Prepare a rich compost for top-dressing by 
frequent turnings. Hyaciniths may stili be planted; io have 
them in perfection apply plenty of rotlen cow dang to the beds. 
Those beds which were planted in autumn should be stirred on 
the surface with a fork, and top-dressed with the same material. 
Prepare beds for Pinks, Carnations, and Pansies. Look over 
the Dahlias, and remove all decayed portions from the stems 
and roots. 

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Now that the shortest day is past some of the plants which 
it is intended to make the most of during the growing season 
may be staried gently preparatory to being potted about the 
middle of next month. Any vice compact plants of the finer 
varieties of Scarlet Geraniums which are intended to make 
specimen plants for vases, baskets, or single specimens on the 
jawn during summer skould now be shaken out of their pots, 
and repotted in fresh soil. Give them, if possible, a gentle 
bottom heat for a week or two until they make fresh roots, and 
keep a moderately moist atmosphere, with a temperature of 
from 45° fo 50°. Alter they have fully recovered the check 
yemove them to a light airy part of the greenhouse, and place 
them in large pots or tubs towards the end of March, where 
they will produce trusses of splendid bloom from June until 
September or October. Herbaceous Calceolarias from this time 
forward should be grown rapidly, potted in similar compost to 
the Geraninms, and kept in a moderately moist, close atmo- 

20° wo a pyringeful of clean tepid 


MiSs = ° eo An 
Bpuere of from 20° ww bo > Ahoy 


lightest part of the house. 


water over them about one o’clock on clear sunny days, and 
remember that the green fly will quickly devastate your Cal- 
ceolarias if you do not iumigate with tobacco about once a-fort- 
night. Cinerarias, if they happen to be underpotted, or have 
been standing near the heating apparatus during the late sey ere 
weather, must be sharply looked after, or they will soon be- 
come smothered with insects. Fumigate them in time, and 
assist those which are coming into bloom with a little clear 
liquid manure once a-week. Fuchsias must also be looked to 
without delay, where fine specimen plants are required. Shake 
the old plants out, reduce the roots, and repot them, introduce 
them to a forcing house at a temperature of about 60°, and as 
soon as you can take cuttings an inch long, strike them, and 
grow them as quickly as possible, remembering that if you 
want large plants they must ke grown to # considerable size 
before they show bloom. For soil use light, turfy, sandy loam, 
such 2s the edgings of gravel walks, with turfy peat, hali-de- 
composed leaf mould, a litile charcoal, and some sand. 
STOVE. 

Some of the plants will now begin to grow, such should be 
potted if they require it, and be placedin the warmest and 
Seeds of stove exotics may now be 
sown; some will require to be placed in a hotbed, particularly 
the seeds of many of the Leguminose, while others will do 
pene in a stove where there is a greater amcunt of air and less 

eat. 
PITS AND FRAMES. 

Give plenty of light and air to these structures in fine weather. 
Inspect the plants at every opportunity, and pick off all damp 
and decaying leaves. Fumigate with tobacco if the plants be 
infested with green fly; this ought to be attended to prior to 
taking off cuttings, as this insect soon increases in number 
when brought into a higher temperature. Pot off autumn- 
struck euttings of Scarlet and Ivy-leaved Geraniums, Fachsias, 
Verbenas, shrubby Calceolarias, &c., that are stillin the cutting 
pans; place them in a little heat till they are well rooted. 
Make a hotbed for cuttings and seeds with fermented dung well 
sweetened. Those who do not possess great advantages, and 
yet are expecied to have the flower garden very gay in the 
summer and autumn, may do much with a small supply oi fer- 
menting meterial by making a hotbed 3 feet high at the back, 
2 feet high in front, and the size of a single-light box.— 
W. Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WHEK. 


Up to this, the 21st instant, we have had a trying week for 
gardening. What with dense fogs and mists, heavy rains, 
boisterous winds, snow, sleet, thaw, and frost, fiifully and al- 
most hourly succeeding each other, we hardly knew what to do 
as respects all out-door gardening. No better proof than we have 
had of late could be given of the advantage of a small house 
of glass over 2 pit or frame, as with the latter little could be 
done in such weather. A house, with means of heating it, is 
also a great improvement over a house not heated at all, or 
heated imperfectly ; for nothing is a greater damper to enthu- 
siasm in gardening than to see plants perishing from cold, and 
be destitute of the means of preventing it. For all small houses, 
heating by a brick oriron stove inside the house will ever be the 
most economical plan, and a little care will prevent dust from 
asher. The firing, &c., can all be done undercover. The next 
cheapest mode is having a little flue either beneath the floor- 
level, the top of the flue forming part of the tiled pathway, or 
the fine may be placed above the floor, where it will be least 
conspicuous. We prefer the former, as the flue is not seen. 
Hot water will always be found the best where there is much 
heating to be done. Where the place is very small, heating by 
gas, with or without a little boiler, is very handy, and so is 
heating from a kitchen boiler, when the position suits, and it 
will only suit when all the heating pipes are above the level of 
the boiler. 

The work as a whole was very much a repetition of what we 
have alluded to in previous weeks’ notices, and, therefore, 
without any particular arrangement as to departments, we 
shall allude to a few matters that have come more prominently 
before us. e 

Window Gardening.—When Geraniums end other plants 
have been kept in warm rocmse, they are apt to be lanky and 
sickly efter such a winter, and may want a little nipping back, 
but as this done now would be apt to retard blooming, it is 
better to ayoid it, if the plants are at all stubby. We have 
receiyed many complaints from those who grow in pots and 


January 26, 1871. ] 


boxes Scarlot Geraniums, which they either cut down in the 
boxes in which they grew, or cut down, took up out of the 
ground, and packed firmly like faggots. The complaint is, that 
from covering up in a dry room in the hardest frost, the plants 
seem alive, but make no growth. All the better for them if 
they do not for 2a month or more. If such plants make some 
leaves tho sizo ofa sixpence by the middle of March, they will 
be quite early enough for blooming in a bslcony or garden in 
June. : 

The great enemy to window plants grown inside of our roome 
in winter is the dust, which will collect on the foliage, and soon 
makes the plants sickly and woebegone. The great cure is 
frequent sponging and washing the Jeaves. The plants look 
very different after such = bath. The water used should be 
fully as warm as the room, say from 60° to 65°. If used warmer, 
itis apt to make them tender. A very quick way of doing this 
washing, in the case of moderate-sized plants, say in 5 or 6-inch 
pots, is to have a pail of the warmed water, place a piece of 
cloth firmiy over the surface of the pot to prevent soil falling 
oui or the water wetting it too much, reverse the plant, end 
pull the head gently through the water, so as to wet every 
leaf and bit of stem. Then use a sponge, or draw your fingers 
softly through and along the leaves, so as not to injure them, 
and then swinge the head again in a pail of clean water. At 
this season excess of watering is to be avoided. If the room is 
hot and diy # sprinkling over tho top will often be more bene- 
ficial than saturating the roots. In no case, except, perhaps, 
that of a strong vigorous flowering bulb, should any water be 
left, except for a minute, in the saucers. Pricking up the 
surface of the soil, and adding a little fresh, will much improve 
the appearance of the plants, end they will also rejoice in clean 
pots. A dirty slimy pot is a disgrace to 2 window, and a plant 
will not thrive in it so well as inaclean pot. All such pots 
are apt to be fell-tales in more ways than one. 

When we advise very careful watering wa do nof wish that 
the soil should be allowed to be dust-dry. When itis necessary 
to water, give enough to moisten all the soil containing roots, 
. and then wait patiently until your services are required. Do 
not be afraid to turn a ball out now and then, ‘or put your 
finger down into a pot, so as to render yourselves sure as to its 
condition. Without such trouble perhaps you may gain the 
knowledge wanted just by ringing the pot vith your knuckles. 
Tf it emits a dull heavy sound you may keep away the watering 
pot. If it emits a clear sound like a clean whole vessel of 
earthenware, you may be sure the soil is dry. 

There is hardly, however, any rule without exceptions. Thus 
some of our window gardeners have taken to Cinerarias and 
Calceolarias in winter and spring. ‘Both like moisture, and 
they will thrive all the better from standing on a cool bottom, 
such as 2 little moss kept moist in the bottom of the saucer. 
Such treatment would ruin the Cactus tribe, which we are glad 
to find are becoming favourites with many window gardeners, 
owing to tho splendid colour of the blooms in summer. If the 
{room is not very warm, they will need little or no water in 
Winter, unless the succulent stems show signs of shrinking. 
Damping the stems will often be better than watering the roots 
until the days become longer and yield more sunlight, Fachsias 
kept in cellars or spare rooms, if now beginning to break, show- 
ing little leaves, should be brought to the light, and ere long 
be repotted in the same-sized clean pots, getting rid of a good 
portion of the old soil. The more growing. plants are exposed 
to the full light the better, and much may be done in a window 
by frequently turning and moving, so that all may obtain a due 
share of light. The safest place for ell such favourites in 
Severe frost is the middle of the liying rocm at bedtime, and 
even then in yery severe weather a cloan clcth thrown over 
them will be a great means of protecting them, and keeping 
them clean. 

: In alluding to old Scarlet Geraniums either saved in the boxes 
in which they grew, or taken up and packed, the great point 
after all the leaves have been removed laie in autumn, is to 
keep them over the wiater, and give no encouragement to growth 
Until the spring. Very little water will be required in winter if 
they are kept in a cool airy place, free from frost, and nothing 
is better than a little dry hay or short litter shaken over 
them, and then any spare room will keep them well. Ifa little 
water should be necessary to prevent their becoming dust-dry, 
instead of deluging the pot or box it is better to make a few 
holes with a pointed stick, and pour the water gently into them, 
allowing it to percolate gradually through the mass. Were 
many of our readers thus to treat old Scarlet Geraniums, they 
might haye the samo plants on their balconies year after year, 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, . 71 


for a score of years, by merely picking away the surface soil iu 
Spring, and adding rich compost. The succulence stored up ia 
the old shoots acts 2s a reservoir of supply, just like a tuber or 
abulb. It is very different with all young plants raised from 
cuttings in summer and autumn. These must have light end 
air, and be kept slowly growing all the winter. The old- 
established plants are, therefore, the best for the millions c? 
window gardeners who have no house or pit to help them. 

Raised Banks in the Kitchen Garden.—Besides what wes 
lately alluded to, we have met with instances of the advantage 
in such severe weather of dry and eyen northerly exposures. 
For instance, on a bawk on @ north aspect young Coleworis 
have stood untouched by the frost, whilst those on a southern 
exposure and on the level have somewhat suffered. Lettuces 
sown and planted out at the foot of walls, &c., with east, west, 
and south exposures, have suficred severely, though protected 
with laurel boughs and a little litter, whilst plants on broad 
ridges haying 2 row slong the ceniro and three or four rows or 
each side, have as yet stood uninjured. The greater dryness 
no doubt helped them. 

We have been collecting material for hotbeds, some to be 
rather permanent, and others for temporary purposes. As 
stated in previous years, we make the moat of stable manure, 
not working it too much before using it, and covering with a 
layer of sweet warm tree leaves. We have some excellent 
dung at present, pretty well made to our hand. In the severe 
frost it was not safe to take the horses out for exercise, and 
a ride was made in the stable yard by spreading the dung 
there day afier day. It has thus been well cut up and mingled 
by the horses’ feet, and after lying a few days will be in fine 
condition for Cucumber beds, and even first-rate, afier one or 
two turnings, for Mushroom beds. 

Prepared beds for early Potatoes, Horn Carrots, Radishes, 
Lettuces, &c., as referred to last week. We think we gather 
Ashleaved Poiatces earlier when we have them several inches 
in height in small pots, and the pots filled with roots before 
planting them inabed. There is no better plan of securing 
early Potatoes than growing them singly in 6 or 8-inch pots, 
earthing the pots over as the plants grow, but letiing the 
tubers como on in the pot. They in general come considerably 
earlier than when planted ont in a bed, end where the roots 
have more free space to run in. 

Radishes protected in an earth-pit are still pretty good, but 
are not 80 crisp as younger ones reized on a little heat. We 
generally grow @ good many in an early Carrot bed, the ceea 
being sown broadcast, and in various waye; but we think we 
obtain the largest supply of Radishes and Carrots, and the one . 
interfering but little with the other, by sowing the Carrots in 
rows 7 or 8 inches ssuncer, and the Radishes in rows between. 
The Radishes will be gone by the time the Carrots want all the 
room. There is nothing that can yield better than e small bed 
of the Dutch or Harly Horn Carrots, and they ave very sweet 
when assisted with a little heat. Instead of thinning so much, 
we prefer thinning as we pull for use. 

Coolness for Calceolarias—We haye alluded to the izaport- 
ance of a small heated house for an amateur, over a pif or a 
framg. Perhaps there is just one thing where artificial heat. 
would not be of much advantage, and that is in the case of our 
bedding Calceolarias. We feel sure that bed results in the 
summer and autumn are often owing to the coddling the plants 
receive in heated places in winter. We think they do better 
when, from taking the cuttings ia October up to planting-oub 
time, they never in any way receive fire heat; not but that 
they will thrive very well in a house that is a little heated, but 
they ought to be ag cool and airy as possible, and must be kept 
much moister than would suit Geraniums of any section. Ours 
seem all right as yet in a cold pit, though it was covered up 
more than a fortnight, but they were too cool to grow much. 

Verbenas.—lt is only fair that failures and misfortunes 
should be chronicled as well as successes. Generally wo have 
had no trouble with Verbenasg, striking them thickly in pots in 
aulumn, keeping them in these pots all the winter, and cutting 
the tops off for spring propagation, as we generally preferred 
spring-propagated plants fur free growth and free flowering. 
Last autumn we used fresh sandy loam, and other modes the 
game as usual, and the plants struck well and looked well until 
the winter fairly set in, and then they began to show brown 
and black blotehes at the points, end then the same discolor- 
alion proceeded farther down until the plants almost died out- 
right. A number of years ago we prided ourselves on haying 
a good collection of bedding Calceolarias, but the most tender 
of them began to be affected in much the same way, and many 


72 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 26, 1871. 


varieties we had to giveup. We failed to find out the cause 
of the disease. If we have had nothing of the sort amongst 
the Calceolarias of late years, there is no credit whatever due 
to us; for, just as with the Cucumber disease, we are quite 
ignorant of what caused it or what enabled us to get rid of it. 
We are equally ignorant of the cause of this attack on the Ver- 
benas, though from the great dryness of the summer, and an 
inability to give water for months, we had an unusual difficulty 
in securing cuttings. Have others had their plants assailed in 
@ similar way? or could they assign a reason for this gradual 
withering up? We may add that they were not affected by 
frost, and were kept much the same as we have treated them 
successfully in other years.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


E. P. Dixon, 57, Queen Street, Hull.— Catalogue of Seeds for the 
Farm and Garden. 

D. Gold McKay, Market Hill, Sudbury, Suffolk.—Jllustrated and 
Descriptive Spring Catalogue of Flower, Kitchen Garden, and Agri- 
cultural Seeds. 

Smith & Simons, 36 and 38. Howard Street, St. Enoch Square, Glas- 
gow.—Culiwral Guide and Descriptive Seed Catalogue. 

C. H. Dickson, 23, Market Place, Manchester.— Catalogue of Vege- 
table and Flower Seeds. 

Peter Lawson & Son, 20, Budge Row, Cannon Street, London, E.C., 
and George IY. Bridge, Edinburgh.—Catalogue of Garden Seeds, 
Bulbs, &e. 

Edward Taylor, Malton. — Catalogue of Agricultural, Kitchen 
Garden, and Flower Seeds, dc. 

R. Dean, 8, Denmark Villas, Ealing, London, W.—Descriptive 
Catalogue of Vegetable, Farm, and Flower Seeds. 

James Vick, Rochester, New York.—Jllustrated Catalogue and 
Floral Guide. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 
SALT oR SALTPETRE FOR MusHroom Beps ‘4. Y. Z.).—Such saline 
manures are very injurious to allfungi. A little salt put upon a Mush- 
room reduces it to a black liquid and pulp. 


Roses (4. B.).—The first you name we think must be Hybrid Perpetual 
Enfant du Mont Carmel, the second Reine d’Angleterre (Gallica), and 
the third Duchesse de Cambacérés (H. P.). The reason you could not 
ind them is, they have been superseded by better varieties. 


Hays’ Stove.‘ K.” wishes to know if any of our readers has one of 


these stoves to dispose of. If so, let them communicate with the publisher 
of this Journal. 


Muss CAVENDISH AFTER Fruitine (J. C.).—Atter fruiting, the plants 
are of no value except for affording suckers. Immediately the fruit is cut 
“take the plants out of the old tubs or pots, partly disroot, pot, and plunge 
‘them in a bottom heat of 85°. Suckers will be produced readily, and 
should be transferred to small pots, and shifted into larger pots as required, 


ALOCASIA METALLICA AND MACRORHIZA CULTURE (Idem).—Pot them 
Dow or early next month, or just when they are beginning to grow, using 
or the former a compost of two parts fibrous brown peat, one part old 
dry cow dung, one part light fibrous loam, and one part charcoal in 
lumps between the sizes of peas and hazel nuts, the whole being torn in 
‘pieces with the hand, and not very finely, using the compost rather 
rough. Add one part of silver sand, mixing the whole well together. For 
A. macrorhiza employ the same ingredients, but let the compost be finer 
than for A. metallica. After potting place the plants in a house witha 
brisk moist heat, and if the pots could be plunged ina bottom heat of 
60° to 85° all the better. The top heat should range from 60° to 65° at 
night, and 70° to 75° by day until March, when the temperature may ad- 
vantageously be raised to 65° or 70° at night, and 75° to 85° or 98° by 
day, admitting air moderately, and maintaining a moist atmosphere. 
Shade will be necessary from very powerful sun. 


Buive Gown CucumsBer (H N.).—It has been awarded three first-class 
certificates, and is described as ‘“‘a superior black spine, growing to a 
length of 26 to 30 inches, of uniform size, and having a fine bloom.” Onur 
correspondent also wishes to know where ‘ Tindall’s No. 2” Cucumber 
seed may be obtained. 


MuLBerry Propacation (E£. M.).—Cuttings may be put in either in 
spring or autumn. You may put them in from now until March. Take 
the well-ripened shoots of the previous year, giving the preference to 
those from the upper part of the tree, and each cutting must have a 
joint of the two-year-old wood at its base. Insert the cuttings in light, 
sandy soilin a shady place, leaving two ot at most three eyes above ground. 
All they need is weeding, watering in dry weather, and protecting from 
frost in winter, strewing some dry litter over them in severe weather. 
and removing it in mild periods. You wish to put ina branch; cut it off 
immediately below a fork or joint, and trimming off the shoots to a height 
of 18 inches from the base, insert it in the ground in light soil in a warm 
border, but shaded, and a foot to 15 inches deep. Make firm with a stake, 
and water in dry weather. The age of the branch is immaterial, only it 
should have some portion of wood more than a year old. 

Prouninc Lavurers (J. R. W.).—The mode of pruning pursued by your 
gardener is good, and we have no suggestions to offer, only as you object 
to the appearance of the shrubs for a time after pruning, they must have 
been cut back very much, so as to remove all or nearly all their foliage. 
We should cut them back in March, or when they are beginning to grow, 
and go over them again in July or August, and remove any irregularities 
of growth. This for the common Laurel, but the Portugal Laurel we 
would only prune every alternate year, and instead of close pruning every 
year, we would every alternate season merely remove any irregularities 
of exowth. When hard cut every year they become weak and stunted in 
growth. 


Prantixnc Unper Lance CHestnut Trees (i. D.).—As turf will not 
grow we know of nothing that would serye you so wellasIvyy. We advise 
Regner’s Ivy, which has large distinct dark green foliage. Periwinkles 
ould also answer, and are very pretty, Vinca elegantissima being especi- 
ally fine. 


PLANTS FoR GREENHOUSE (Amateur).—Your house will be suitable for 
the following, but having a temperature of 65° it is not a greenhouse, 
but a stove; 45° is the highest temperature from fire heat any greenhouse 
plant requires :—Acacia armata, A. oleifolia elegans, A. pulchella, Acro- 
phyllum venosum, Beanfortia splendens, Aphelexis macrantha purpurea, 
Boronia Drummondi, Chorozema cordatum splendens, Citrus japonica, 
Correa Brilliant, Cyélamen persicum yars., Cytisus racemosus, Eutaxia 
floribunda, Hydrangea japonica variegats, Kalosanthes miniata grandi- 
ora, Myrtus communis, Nerium rubrum plenum, Rhododendron jasmini- 
florum, Statice brassicefolia, and Vallota purpurea. Azaleas: Brilliant, 
Criterion, Mars, Qaeen Victoria, Stella, and Duc de Nassau. Camellias: 
Fimbriata, La Pace. Madame Pepin, Monarch, Valteyaredo, and Alex- 
ina. You can add Fucbsias, Pelargoniums, Cinerarias, Calceolarias, and 
Primulas, which are effective in theirseason. The back wall we would 
cover with Camellias, or Habrothamnus elegans and Lucalia gratissima, 
all winter-flowering. If the back wall be shaded by plants in front, no 
flowering plant would thrive on it. 


GESNERA TREATMENT (M. 4.).—Your plants being those of G. exoni- 
ensis, you have failed from their requiring a stove temperature. They will 
not succeed well in a greenhouss, or only for a short time when in flower- 
Your only plan will be to keep them in a light and warm position in your 
greenhouse, giving no water beyond enough to keep the foliage fresh or 
from flagging, and gradually dry them off. In July repot, and place 
them in a hotbed, growing there as long as you can, and before cold 
weather sets in remove them to the greenhouse, but we fear they will not 
flower unless you can give them a temperature of 55° at night. We grow 
our plants in a late vinery, and transfer them to the stove for flowering. 
They have beea in good bloom the past six weeks, and we shall now dry 
them off. . 


ANONYMOUS CORRESPONDENCE (Qua@stor).—The observations were di- 
rected generally to check unworthy conduct. Your observations are 
altogether personal, and written to annoy without the possibility of being 
beneficial. 


Hot-waTeR Preine (A Subscriber).—If you did not object to the first 
expense, you would need from three to four 4-inch pipes all round the 
house. 


ADVERTISING (S. E. F.).—Your advertisements will be 3s. each. 


Appiyinc SuLpHuR (Lupus).—Using a pair of bellows is the common 
mode, well known to gardeners. 


Roses (W. H. B.).—The varieties you name would do very well at Upper 
Norwood. 


CucustBER (Thomas Eads).—We do not know where Dale’s Conqueror 
Cucumber is to be had. Seedsmen who possess it ought to advertise it. 


Fruit TREES In OrncHaRD House (4 Subscriber).—For such a lean-to 
house, and where the plants are to be allowed to grow some size, we 
would, 98 there are trees sgainst the back wall, have two rows of Peaches 
and Nectarines in front, and say at 4 feet apart, or eight in the row. 
These might be of Peaches—one Acton Scott, one Grosse Mignonne, one 
Noblesse, one Royal George, one Violette Hative, one Barrington, one 
Walburton Admirable, one Téton de Venus. Of Nectarines—two Elruge, 
two Violette Hative, two Rivers’s Orange, one Downton, one Roman. 
By haying small plants you could have twenty-four plants instead of 
sixteen, and some put them as close together as 2 feet apart, but we do 
not think anything is gained by crowding. In such a house with pipes 
round it, Vines in pots will do very well until those on the roof come in. 
With Peaches on the wall, and the pyramids and standards in front, we 
would not plant Vines so closely as 4 feet apart. If you do, as they fill 
the house, the trees shaded by them. will do little good; from 6 to 8 feet 
apart would be better. You cannot beat Black Hamburgh for such a 
house, and Royal Muscadine and Buckland Sweetwater as Whites. If 
you want to have them late, then Raisin de Calabre and Lady Downe’s. 
With late Grapes, however, you cannot use the house much until they 
are cut. Six feet will do fora Vine border if you cannot have more, but 
we would have the border inside and outside too if you could manage it, 
and plant inside. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


FRENCH FOWLS. 


In your report on the Bristol Show, [see you remark that 
not a single La Flache cock was exhibited in the French class. 
I have been for some time a fancier and breeder of this de- 
scription of fowl, and have taken many prizes, and I must say 
I would never think of sending my fowls to any show where 
the French breeds are all classed together, knowing well that 
wy fowls would stand a bad chance of winning when compet- 
ing with breeds of a larger description, such as Créye-Cceurs and 
Houdans. ‘The entries in the French classes at the above 
Show were very large, and were worthy of separate classifi- 
cation. Generally speaking, the committees of poultry shows 
do not give the breeders of French fowls much encouragement, 
—Georce Atex, STEPHENS, Dublin. 


Lieut Branuas.—The Torquay Show bids fair to become as 
distinguished this year as last, and I hore it may be so in every 
class. To insurea collection of Light Brahmas, such as has not 
been hitherto seen west of Bristol, I hope to get up a good cup 
for the best pen of this handsome variety, one which has perhaps 


January 26, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, ’ 73 


been established more by the perseverance of a few admirers in 
cifering cups than any other. Mr. Pares has kindly offered his 
assistance, and I now appeal to every admirer in the fancy to 
give me his support, and also to send specimens to the Show.— 
James Lone, Princess Square, Plymouth. 


OUTRAGE ON A PRIZE BIRD. 


Havyine had a most mischievous outrage—and I regret to 
hear by no means an uncommon one—perpetrated on a valu- 
able bird on its way from the Bristol Show, I venture to suggest 
a remedy which might be practicable if secretaries would only be 
willing to lend their aid towards it. My Silver-Grey Dorking 
cock, which had just taken the first prize at Bristol as at various 
other places, has been on his way home entirely stripped of sickle 
feathers, as well as of some of the other side tail feathers, one 
of the great ornaments of this breed, as every connoisseur well 
knows. A handsome bird is thus for a year made useless for 
showing as well as unhappy to look at, and is also weakened. 
Such outrages are made possible by the way in which baskets 
are fastened at shows, with little bits of wire, easily untwisted 
and twisted up again at any station. I beg to suggest that 
exhibitors of specially valuable birds should keep a padlock for 
each basket, with two keys, one of which should beforehand be 
sent by post to the secretary, and he or his deputy alone use it, 
and after the show return it to the owner.—O. HE. CresswELu. 


KENDAL POULTRY SHOW. 


Tuts was held in Albert Buildings, on the 19th, 20th, and 21st inst, 
and in all respects was much superior to any of its predecessors. The 
number of entries in the Poultry department was 658. The success of 
the Show this year must bea great satisfaction, both to the Committee 
and the excellent Hon. Secretary, who did all in their power to add to 
tke comfort both of the visitors and the very valuable stock placed 
under their care. The great number of cups and other articles of 
plate offered by private gentlemen, and some by the Committee, no 
doubt caused the large increase in the entries. Mr. Hewitt, who was 
to haye been one of the Judges, was prevented by indisposition, and the 
awards were made by Mr. Teebay, of Fulwood, Preston, and Mr. Dixon, 
of Bradford. 

The Game classes were of very great merit, in fact we never saw a 
better lot brought together. The five classes contained fifty-four pens, 
most of the principal Game exhibitors in the country competed, and 
a great many first-class birds had only a high commendation. Of 
the Hamburghs there were not large entries, but nearly all the pens 
were everything that could be desired. Mr. Beldon took the cup with 
a beautiful, and we think we may say a perfect pen of Gold-spangles. 
The adult Dorking class numbered sixteen pens, the chickens twelve 
pens, and Silver-Greys ten pens. 
the chickens of Messrs. Gunson & Jefferson, of Whitehaven. The 
Cochin class2s were all of very high quality, and the entries were 
large in all the classes. The cup went to Mr. Taylor, of Manchester, 
but the best class in the Show was that for the Whites. We never saw 
so many first-class birds of such faultless purity brought together before. 
Mr. Sichel’s first-prize pen was a treat to look upon, and Mr. Smalley’s 
was scarcely inferior ; both these gentlemen may be proud of their birds. 
Many of the Spanish were of great merit, Mr. Brierley taking the cup 
with a wonderful pen. The Brahmas were mostly good, and the entry 
large. The Selling Class contained seventy-three entries, nearly all 
breeds being represented, and all were to be sold by auction during the 
Show. The entries in the Bantam classes were large, and all the 
classes were really good. The cup for a single Game cock was won by 
Mr. Julian, of Hull, in a splendid class of seventeen. The cup for 
Ducks was won by Mr. Stott, of Rochdale, with Rouens in a class of 
twenty-one. The East Indian Ducks were capital in plumage, and an 
entry of seyenteen is something to be proud of. Mr. Burn took both 
Grst and second prizes. All the Pigeon classes contained some capital 
pens; most of the local classes were very good, and several pieces of 
plate and cups were awarded in them. 

Ganse.— White and Piles.—1, T. Mason, Lancaster. 2, C. W. Brierley, Middle 
ton. 38, J. Stabler, Driffield. hc, R. Knight, Gilthwaiterigg; J. Brough, Car 
liske ; H. C. & W. J. Mason, Drighlington. c, H. Thompson, Penrith. Black- 
breasted and other Reds.—1 and Cup, C. W. Brierley. 2,T.Mason. 3, H. M: 
Julian, Hull. he, J. W. Will, Errol; E. Ackroyd, Eecleshill; J. Barrow, jun. 
Bradley Field, Kendal. Chickens.—1, J. Mashiter, Ulverston. 2, J. W. Will- 
8,H.M. Julian. he, E. Ackroyd. <Any other Variety.—1 and 3, H. M. Julian: 
2,— Woodhouse, Ulverston. he, H. Jowett. Idle; J.Mashiter; W.J. Cope: 
Barnsley. c, H.Jowvitt; C. W. Brierley. Hen.—l, C. W. Brierley. 2,J. Bar- 
row, jun. 38, F. Sales, Crowle. he, T. West, St.Helens; T. Mason; T. Kew, 
Burton, Westmoreland, c, Mrs. A. Dawson, Kendal. 

_ Hawporcus.—Silver-spangled.—l and 2, D. Lord, Stacksteads. 8,H.Beldon 

Goitstock. he, Ashton & Booth, Mottram. Golden-spangled.—1 and Cup, H- 

Beldon 2, H. Pickles,jun. 8,J.Ogden, Hollinwood. he, J. Newton, Silsden, 

Stlver-pencilled.—1, H. Pickles, jun. 2, W.M. Mann, Kendal. 8, H. Beldon. 

he, H. Smith, Keighley; J. Robinson, Garstang; H. Pickles, jun. Golden 

ga H.Beldon. 2, C. Moore, Poulton-le-Fylde. 8, J. W. Will. he, H. 
ckles, jun. 

Dorutnes.—Colowred, except Silver-Grey.—1, D. Gellatly, Meigle. 2, Mrs, 
eee, Sutton Scarsdale, Chesterfield. 3, J. Robinson. hc, S. H. Stott, 
Rochdale; R.D. Holt, Windermere; J. Copple, Prescot (2). Chickens —1l, Gun. 
son & Jefferson. 2, Miss Fairhurst, Ormskirk. 3, W. W. Ruttlidge, Storthend. 

dic, W. H. King, Rochdale; S.H. Stott; Mrs. Arkwright; J. White, Warlaby 


The cup for the best pen went to | 


Silver-Grey or any other variety, R. Smalley, Lancaster. 2, W. Jackson, 
Bolton-le-Sands. 3, J. Robinson. he, R. D. Holt. 

Coonry-Czina.— Cinnamon and Buff.—1 and Cup, W. A. Taylor, Manchester. 
2,G.H. Proctor. Durham. 3, J. Sichel, Timperley. hc, Gunson & Jefferson; 
J. Watts, King’s Heath, Birmingham. c, R. Hine, Bedlington; W. Marsland- 
Milverton ; J. Hine, Kendal. rown and Partridge-feathered.—1, E. Tudman, 
Whitchurch. 2, J. White, Whitley, Netherton. 3,T.Sharp, Ackworth. he, W. A. 
Taylor (2). White—1,J.Sichel. 2 and 3, R. $malley. he, R. Smalley; E. 
Fearon; J. Sichel; J. Stephens, Walsall. ce, H. Yardley; A.D. Cochrane, 
Stourbridge. 

SpanisH (Black).—1, C. W. Brierley. 2, H.Beldon. 8, H. Wilkinson, Earby. 
he, G. C. Wilson, Milnthorpe ; Hon. Miss D. Pennant, Penrhyn Castle, Bangor. 
(2). c, H. Yardley ; H. Morson, Bishop Auckland. 

Brana Pootras.—l, J. H. Dawes, Birmingham. 2, Mrs. Arkwright. 38, J. 
Sichel. he, J. W. Brockbank, Kirksanton; W.Masland; EB. Leech, Rochdale; 
Hons misy D. Pennant; J.Mashiter; J. Watts. c, Mrs. W. F. Wharton, Bir- 
mingham. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY, EXCEPT BanTams.—1, H. Beldon. 2, W. A. Taylor 
(Gackoe Cochins). 3, R. Smalley (Créve-Cwurs). he, Mrs. W. F. Wharton 
2, J. W. Fawcett, Old 


Houdan); J. Robinson; J. Watts. : 

SrLiine Crass.—l, R. Smalley (White Cochin). 

Hutton (Rouens). 3, H. Wilkinson, Earby (Black Spanish). he, W. Bentley, 
Scholes-in-Cleckheaton ; W. M. Mann (Silver-pencilled Hamburghs); H. Yard- 
ley; H. Lickbarrow, Kendal; G. Fawcett, Lyth; S. Cox, Stacksteads(Rouens); 
T. J. Harrison, Kendal (Black Spanish); T. Whittaker, Melton Mowbray (Pile 
Game); E. Fearon; J. Swinbank, Crook (Black East Indian Ducks); J. Robin- 
son; J.J. Waller, Kendal (Dorkings); H. Pickles (Polands); J. Watts. c, Miss 
C. E. Palmer (Golden-spangled Hamburgh); Gunson & Jefferson. 

SINGLE GAME Cooks.—l and Cup, H. M. Julian. 2, C. W. Brierley. 3,J. 
Bowness, Newchurch. he, J. W. Will; M. Redhead, Kendal; W. H. Stagg, 
Netheravon; J.Brough. c,T.Mason. Cockerel—l, J.Mashiter. 2, T. Whit- 
taker. 8, J.D. Oates, Halifax. he, H.M. Julian; W. H. Stagg. 

GaME BantTams.—Cock.—1, S. W. Smith, Thrapstone. 2, T. Sharples, Raw- 
tenstall. 3,J.Blamires, Great Horton. he, G. Hall, Kendal; Bellingham and 
Gill, Burnley ; W. Caton, Kirkby Lonsdale; J. R. Robinson, Sunderland; T. C. 
and E. Newbitt; H.Beldon. c, W. Rogers. Sunderland. Black-breasted or 
other Reds.—1 and Cup, G. Hall, Kendal. 2, T.C.&E. Newbitt. 8, H. Beldon. 
he, J. & W. Towerson, Egremont; S. W. Smith. <Any other Variety.—1, T. 
Sharples. 2,T.C. © E.Newbitt. 8,J. Stabler. he, H.J. Nicholson, Holborn 
Hill, Cumberland. c,J. Watts. 

Bantams (Any variety, except Game).—l, M. Leno, Dunstable (Laced). 2, J. 
Walker, Halifax. 3,H.Beldon. he, H. Yardley; M. Leno (Laced); Mrs. Ark- 
wright (Gold-laced); W.J. Cope; J. Watts (2). 

Ducxs.— White Aylesbury.—1, E.Leech. 2,J. Robinson. 3, W. Stonehouse, 
Whitby. Rouwen.—l and Cup, S, H. Stott. 2, A. Dickinson, West Croft. 3, R. 
Parkinson, Ulverston. hc, Mrs. Banks, Kendal; J. J. Waller; W. Willison, 
Kendal; W. Evans, Prescot; E.Leech; J. White; J. Newton. Black East 
Indian.—1 and 2, S. Burn, Whitby. 8, G.-S. Sainsbury, Devizes. hc, G. Cart- 
mel], Kendal; S8.Burn. <Any other Variety—l, M.Leno (Mandarin). 2, C. W. 
Brierley. 8,H.B. Smith. (The whole class highly commended). 


PicEons.—Carrier.—l, H. Beldon. 2, C. E, Stretch, Ormskirk. he, W. 
Jackson; E. Horner, Harewood (2). Tumblers(Almond).—1, H. Yardley. 2,H. 
Beldon. he, E. Horner. <Any Variety.—l, F. Moore, Burnley. 2, T. Kew. 
Owls—1, J. & W. Towerson, 2,H.Beldon. he, A. Jackson, Bolton-le-Moors. 
Pouter or Cropper.—l, E, Horner. 2, T. Kew. he, T. Kew; E. Horner. 
Barbs.—1, W. Jackson. 2, E. Horner. Fantails.—1, H. Yardley. 2, E. Horner. 
he, J. F. Loveridge, Newark (2); J. Walker, Newark; J, W. Edge, Birmingham ; 


H.Beldon. Turbits—1 and 2, R. Thompson, Penrith. he, J. & W. Towerson; 
E. Horner. Trumpeters—i, E. Horner. 2,H.Beldon. Jacobins.—1, J, & W. 
Towerson. 2,R.Thompson. hc,R.Thompson; F. Moore. Any other Variety. 


—1,R. Thompson. 2, W. Jackson (Spangled Porcelains). hc, R. Thompson; 
H. Yardley; W. Bearpark, Ainderby Steeple; H.Beldon; J.,.Watts; E. Horner. 


LOCAL CLASSES. 

Game (Any variety).—Chickens—1, 2, and he, J. Barrow, jun. 8, Graham 
and Robinson, Kendal. Pullet—tl, A. Walker, Troutbeck. 2, W. Wells, 
Kendal. 3, Graham & Robinson. hc,J. Barrow, jun. 

Hamevreus (Any variety)—Chickens.—1 and Cup and 2, W.M. Mann. 3, T. 
Stuart, Staveley. i a 

SpanisH (Black).—Chiekens.—1, 2, and$, T. J. Harrison, Kendal. he, J. P. 


Harrison, Kendal. ~ 
Dorxincs (Any variety).—Chickens.—1, R. D. Holt. 2, W. W. Ruttlidge. 
8, Mrs. T. W. L. Hind. 

Cecuins (Any variety).—Chickens.—1, R. G. Pears, Yanwath. 2, A. Fulton, 
Sedgwick. 8, G. Hall, Kendal. he, J. Glessall. ‘ 

Braumas (Any variety).—Chickens.1, A. Walker. 2and3, T. W. L. Hind. 
he, J. Glessall. F 

Bantams (Any variety)—Chickens.—1 and 2,G.Hall. 3, J. Smith, Kendal. 
he, J. Rauthmell, jun,, Kendal: W. Caton, Kirkby Lonsdale (2). 

Docs (Any variety).—Ducklings.—1, A. Walker. 2, J. J. Waller, Kendal. 
8, R. Willison, Underbarrow. hc, J. Banks, Kendal; R. S. Willison, Under- 
barrow; A. Stuart. é 

TourseEys.—l, T. J. Harrison. 2, C. W. Wilson, High Park, Kendal. 3, T, and 
G. Airey, Preston Patrick. hc, Mrs. Bindloss, Castle Green, Kendal. 
GEESE.—1 and 2, R. Rawlinson, Kendal. 3, C. W. Wilson. 


ABERDEEN POULTRY AND PIGEON SHOW. 


Tse Northern Poultry Club held their fifth annual exhibition on 
the 14th inst., in the Artillery Gymnasium, Aberdeen. There were 
369 entries of Poultry, and 250 of Pigeons. The following awards 
were made :— 


Gaxur.—Cocks.—1, A. Dewar, Linton, Cluny. 2, J. M. Campbell, Bonnykelly, 
New Byth. 8, W. Meldrum, Fortar. hc, J. Mollison, Ruthven, Meigle, c, J+ 
Wood. Dunecht, Waterton of Echt. Hen—l, J. Mollison. 2, W. Meldrum. 
8, J. W. Will, Errol. Chickens—1 and Cup, A. Dewar. 2, C. Jamieson. 8, J- 
Bia Blairgone, Dollar. he, W. Tosh, Forfar. c, P. Campbell, Oldwhat, New 

eer. 

SpanisH.—Cocks.—1, D. Normand, Kennoway. 2, T. Skinner, Woodside, 
Aberdeen. 8andc,J. Wood. Hens.—l and 2, A. She: herd, Meigle. 3,J. Wood. 
he, H. Yardley, Birmingham. c, W. Webster, Middlefield, Woodside. Chickens. 
—1 and Cup, J. Waddell, Airdriehill, Airdrie. 2, Miss K. Douglas, Liberton. 
8, W. Fraser, Kirkton, Durris. he, W. Webster; A. Gibb, Panmure Feus, 
Broughty-Ferry ; J. Morrison, Morningside, Edinburgh. J 

Dorxines (Silver-Grey).—Cocks.—1, Mrs. M‘Donald, Forres. 2, Miss Swann, 
Douglas. 3, A. F. Williamson, Caskieben, Blackburn. he, E. Taylor, Fichnie. 
c, D. Gracie, Stonehaven. Hens.—1, T. Raines, Bridge Haugh, Stirling. 2,D. 
Annan, The Torr, Moonzie, Cupar. 8, G. Black, Mill of Craibstone, Auchmull. 
he, A. F. Williamson. c, Mrs. M‘Donald. Chickens.—l, J. Waddell. 2, T. 
Raines, $,D. Annan. c, J. Wood. 2 pit 

Dorxgines (Any other Colour).—Cocks.—l, Mrs. A. Bruce, Westhill of Airdrie, 
Meigle. 2, B.C. Urquhart, Meldrum House. 8, J. Clark, Fochabers. Hens.— 
1, A. Shepherd. 2, Mrs.M‘Donald. 8, A. Haggart, Leslie. hc, Miss H. R.Lind, 
Ladiesford, Fraserburgh. ¢, L. M‘Donald, Pitrodie, Errol. Chickens.—1 and 
Cup, A. Shepherd. 2, A. Bowie, jun., Carnoustie. 8, Mrs. M‘Donald. 

Cocutn-Cu1na.—Cock.—i, B. C. Urquhart. 2, J. Pollock, Busby, Glasgow. 
3, W. Hendry. Hens.—i, 3, and Cup, Mrs. J. Wood. 2, T. M. Hendrie, Inver- 
ness. he, A. Cowie, Cromblybank, Ellon. Chickens.—l, J. Wood. 2, T. M. 
Hendrie. 8, F. Downie, Aberdeen. 


74 


Brava Pootra.— Cock.—1, J. Wood, Dunecht, Watertown of Echt, Aberdeen. 
2,D. A. Pearson, Johnston, Laurencekirk. 3, Capt. Hunter, Tillery. Hens.— 
i and Cup, Mrs. Gillison, Milngavie, Glasgow. 2, T. Raines. 8 and c, Capt. 
Hunter. Uhickens.—l, W. Harvey, Sheffield. 2 andc, Capt. Hunter. 2, J. 
Mackie, Fllon. he, R. Brownlie, Kirkcaldy. 

Houpans.—Cochks.—1, Mrs. Bain, Aberdeen. 2, J. Logan, Bastshield, Lanark- 

. Urquhart. Hens.—1, J. Mackie. 2and8, Mrs.Bain. c, J. Logan. 


shire. 8, 
Haugurcus (Gold or Silver-pencilled)—Cocks.—l, J. Will. 2, H. Pickles, 
he, A. Scroggie, Oldwhat. c, A- 


jun., Earby. 8,3. M. Campbell, Bonnykelly. 
Mathers, New Pitsligo. Mens.—l and Cup, A. Pratt, Kirkcaldy. 2, H. Pickles, 
he, R. Fraser, Woodside. ¢, P. Camp. 


jun. 8, G. Laing, Persley, Aberdeen. 
sell, Oldwhat. 
HamuBur 


s (Gold-spangled).— Cock.—1, H. Piekles, jun. 2,J.W. Will. 38, d. 
Deer. he, J. Campbell. Hens—i, W. Abel, Buxburn, Aberdeen. 
Brown, Creiff. he, R. Mearns, Aberdeen. c, H. Pickles, jun. 
r-spangled).—Cocks. 2; ab 


5 ury.—l, J. W. Will. 2,5. Ford, Hunily. 8, Mrs. Hendrie. 
he, A. Copland, Kintore. c,J. Clark. Any other Variety.—1 and 8, W. M‘Knight, 
Boghead, Pitcaple. 2,A. Bowie. jun. hc, A. Valentine, Blackburn, Kinellar. 
KEYS (Any variety).—1l, Mrs. W. Auld, Nethermnuir, New Deer. 2, J. 

w Deer. 3,J. Clark. c, Miss Taylor, Fichnie. 
—land2,J.Logan. 3,J. Waddell. 
LING Cuass.—l, L. M‘Donald, Pitrodie, Errol (Dorkings). 2, P. Symon, 
Errol (Spanish). 8, A. Bowie, jun. he, Mrs. Gillison; T. Gray, Fordyce, 
Portsoy; J. Clark. c, Mrs. Gillison; J. W. Will (Gamo). 

4 PIGEONS. 

PourErs (Blue Pied).— Cocks. —1 and he, J. Millar, Glasgow. 2 and 8. D. 
Stewart, Perth. ¢,G. Ure, Rosebank, Dundee. Hens.—l, 3, and Cup, G. Ure. 
2,J. Miller. he, D. Stewart. c,J. Hawley, Bingley. 

__Pourers (Black Pied).—Cocke.—1 and he, G. Ure. 2 and 8, J. Miller. ¢, J. 
Morrison. Hens.—l and 2, J. Miller. 8, W. B. Van Haansbergen, Newcastle- 
on-Tyne. hc, G. Ure. 

Pourers (Red or Yellow Pied).— Cocks—1 and he, G. Ure (Yellow and Red). 
2, J. Miller (Red), 3, J. Walker, Newark. c, W.B. Van Haansbergen. Hens.— 
1 and 3, G. Ure (Yellow). 2, J. Miller. “kc, J. Hawley. c, W. C. Thomson, 
Broughty-Ferry (Red). 

PourErs (White)—Cocks.—1, J. Miller. 2, W. Retherford, Edinburgh. 8, J. 
Grant, Edinburgh. he, H. Yardley; J. Grant. c,J. sharp, Johnstone. Hens. 
—1,J. Miller, 2,G.Ure. 8,J.Sharp. he,J. Grant. 

PoutrRs (Any other Colour or Marking).—Cocks —1 and c, J. Grant (Chequers 
and Mealy). 2,J. Morrison. 8, D. Steward. hc, W. B. Van Haansbergen. 
Hens.—1, W. Rutherford, Edinburgh. 2, D. Stewart, Perth. 8, W. Moon, Edin- 
burgh. c, R. T. Moon, Drifiield. 

Cagriers.—Cocks.—l, 8, and Cup, W. Massie, Spalding. 2,H.Yardley. he,T. 
W. Kilburn, Bishop Auckland. c, W. Hendry. Hens.—l,H. Yardley. 2, T. W. 
Kilburn. 8, W. Hendry. 

SHorr-rackD TumBLERS.—Almond or Mottled.—1, W. Harvey. 2,J. ner: 
8, H. Yardley. Any other Colour.—l, J. Hawley. 2, F. M‘Crae, jun. 3, 
Hendry, hc, J. Grant. 

Barss.—Black or Dun.—l, H. Yardley. 2, he, and c, W. Hendry. 8, W. 
Massey. Any other Colour.—tl, W. Massey. 2and8, W. Hendry. 

FanTaILs.—l 2nd2, G,Ure. 8, T. Rule, Gilesgate, Durham. hce,J. &. Spence, 
Edinburgh. c, A. Smith, Broughty-Ferry. 

Jacopins.—l, W. B. Van Eaansbeigen: 2, J. Miller. 8,J. Hawley. hc, H. 
Yardley, Birmingham. c, T. Rule. 

TRUMPETERS.—1, J. Miller. 2,J.Hawley. 8,T. Rule. hc, W. B. Van Haans- 
bergen. c, T. Rule; J. Hawley. 

TurBITS.—! and 2, W. Hendry. 8, T. Rule. he, W. B. Van Haansbergen. 
ce, C. Anten, jun., York. 

Ownzs.—l, W. Harvey. 2,H. Yardley. 8, W. Goddard, Earlston. 

Nuns.—l, F. Graham, Birkenhead. 2, T. Imrie, Ayr. 8, W. Symon. he, W. 
B. Van Haansbergen. c, Master A. Ridpath, Edinburgh. 

Dracoons.—1 and 8, F. Graham. 2, H. Allsop, Birmingham. he, W. H. 
Mitchell, Moseley, Birmingham. c, W. Massey. 

AnTWERPS.—i, H. R. Wright. 2, W. Hendry. 8, H. Yardley. he, W. H. 
Mitchell, Moseley, Birmingham. c¢, T. W. Kilburn. : 

ANY OTHER VaRIETY.—1, 2, and Timepiece, J. Miller. 8,J. Sharp, Johnston. 
he, T. W. Kilburn. c, W. Goddard (Austrian Ponters (Black), and Ice Pigeons). 

SELLING Cuiass.—l, G. Ure (Red Pouter Cock). 2, W. Harvey, Shefileld. 
he, J. Grant. c,— Hendry (Black Barb). 


Jupers.—Vor Game, Dorkings, Brahmas, and Bantams, Mr. John 
Anderson, Blairgowrie; for Spanish, Cochin-China, Hamburghs, 
Ducks, Geese, and Turkeys, Mr. Alexander Paterson, Airdrie; for 
Pigeons, Mr. M. Stuart, Glasgow. 


BIRMINGHAM COLUMBARIAN SOCIETY'S SHOW 


Tue sixth annual Show of this Society was held on the 19th inst. 
in the Town Hall Auction Rooms. There were seventeen entries more 
than last year. The competition was divided into two sections—yiz., 
birds bred in 1870, and birds of any age. 

In Clas 1, young Carriers, a promising Dun was first, and a Black 
second; many fanciers thought these positions should have been 
reyersad. Of Carriers of any other colour, a very promising bird was 
first, but sadly deficientin colour. In Almonds and Short-faced, a Yellow 
Wholefeather was first, a Kite second; an Almond and Red Agate 
wexe also shown. These four birds were good in head, eye, stop, bill, 
and carriage; in fact, such as might have reasonably been expected 
from the anthor of the article on the Almond in “our Journal.” 
Mottles and Rosewings were good in marking. In Jacolins and Trum- 
peters there was no competition, so the prizes were withheld. In 
Barbs « yery promising Black was first, and a good Dun second. 
Dragoons were a good class, White boing first, Blue second, and Silver 
third. There were four of the latter colour in this class. Dun Ant- 
werps were promising birds, also the Red Chequers, but the pride of 
place must be accorded to the first-prize Blues Chequer, by far the best 
bird in any of the classes. These classes did not present the severe 
competition that is usual at this Show through the strongest exhibi/or 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 


,E. M‘Crae, jun., Aberdeen. | 


[ January 26, 1871. 


having purchased the whole of the stock of Mr. Noyé, the rule of the 
Society being that all young birds must be bred by the exhibitor. The 
Any other variety class was a splendid one; Satinettes were first, 
Owls second, and the remainder consisted of Blue and Silver Swallows, 
Mains, and Baldpates. 

In the division for birds of any age, in the class for Carrier cocks, 
Black or Dun, all the prize birds were Black. The first prize went to 
a wonderfully good-billed bird, the wattle of which was by many good 
judges considered perfection, parrow skull, eye wattle rather too small, 
good colour and carriage. For hens, Black or Dun, the first prize went 
to Blacks with goof eyes, rather too light in bill, and looking rather 
overshown ; second a Dun with a remarkably large eye, bill good, but 
not quite so straight as it ought to be. Of hens of any other colour, 
Blue, good in all points except colour, wero first, Silver second, and 
White highly commended. This was the best-eyed bird of this colour 
seen for some time. Pouter cocks and hens call for no special 
remark. Almonds and Short-faced Tumblers were very good in 
every point, Almonds being first and Kites second. untat/s, no com- 
petition. Of Owls, Blue English yere first, and foreign Whites 
with black tails second. These should have been first, although 
the cock was deficient in frill. In Jfotties and Rosewings the latter 
were first, 2 perfect match; Mottles second. A splendid cock was 
in this pair; the hen exhibited rather too much white. In Saddles 
and Badges, Blacks were first, Reds second and third, Blues 
highly commended. Wuns and Archangels, Black Nuns obtained all 
the honours. These were three grand pairs. Barbs good. Blacks 
obtained all the honours in this class also. Dragod%s.—In Blue a 
splendid pair was first. In sny other colour, Silvers were first and 
second, Yellows third. This was a grand class, all the winners were 
fully up to the standard set forth by the Society. Silyers and Whites 
were highly commended. Five pairs of the former colour were ex- 
hibited. . Antwerps.—Of Blue, a remarkably good pair were first, the 
others require age to mature them. Dun Antwerps were a strong 
good class, one exhibitor carrying off all the prizes, the portrait cock 
being in the first-prize pair. Blne Chequered were good and all well 
merked, all the prizes again falling to one exhibitor. Red Chequered 
Antwerps were well represented by some grand specimens. 

The Antwerp cock class was the strongest in the Show, there being 
twenty-five pens. Duns were first and second; Blues third; Red 
Chequered and Biue Chequered were highly commended. A veteran 
eighteen years old was exhibited by Mr. Croslend in perfect health and 
condition. 

In pairs of Any other variety, Brunettes were first, and had an extra 
prize given by the late Hon. Sec., Mr. Noyé. Blondinette Satin were 
equal first; Dentillettes and Silver Turbits equal second; Bluo Tur- 
bits and English Owls were equal third ; Blue Blondinettes and Turkish 
Rollers were highly commended. Eastern Blues, Satinettes, Mains, 
and Swallows composed the rest of the class. In the class for single 
birds, a Damascene was first, and a Blue Blondinette second. This 
specimen was in bad condition, or the positions would have been 
reversed. The bird is as small as an Almond, of a deep blue colour, 
with pink bars, and on the end of every flight feather is a spot of 
white the size of a horsebean, and every tail feather has the spot the 
same as the Satinette. A Red Barb was third. The remainder of this 
class was made-up of a Swallow, Starling, Owl, Jacobin, Archangel, 
Magpie, and Capuchin. A hk 

The Variety classes were certainly the greatest attraction in the 
Show, and were well worth seeing, as most of the specimens sent over 
to England from Smyrna by Mr. Noyé were exhibited. Carriers, Al- 
monds, Dragoons, and Autwerps were good, the latter especially so, as 
no exhibition as yet has produced such classes with such keen com- 

etition. 
: An Antwerp courier hen was exhibited as extra stock by Mr. Lud- 
low, the Secretary. She has won ten flying matches from Paris to 
Belgium, and is 9 remarkably good-looking bird. This is a proof that 
if the short, strong-billed Antwerps are trained from the nest they are 
as good flyers as their longer brethren. 7 

In drawing these notes to a close, too much praise cannot be ac- 
corded to the Committee and members of this Society for the liberal 
manner in which they provide a show for public inspection, and give 
free admission to any respectable applicant, either by ticket or on pro- 
duction of his card. Upwards of three hundred tickets were taken 
at the doors, and fully that number of visitors were admitted without 
ticket. Such liberality ought to receive support, and many fanciers 
were surprised to hear that tho Society was supported on so small a 
yearly subscription—namely, 6s. ; the secret is, all are fanciers, all put 
their shoulders to the wheel, and therefore the expenses are small. 


BRED IN 1870. 


Rs.—Black and Dun.—1 and he, J. Watts, Hazelwell Hall, Birming- 
enacts Hallam, Lozélls, Birmingham. <Any other Colour.—t, J. Watts. | 
‘ALMONDS AND SHOR'’-FACED TUMBLERS.—1 and 2, T. Hallam, Lozelis, Bir- 
ingham. 2 ‘ 
wm MOTTLES AnD RosEWINGS.—1, E. D. Careless, Birmingham, 
Banss.—l, H. Allsop, Birmingham. 2, GH, Hallam. 
Dracoons.—1, J. Watts. 2,0. W. Ludlow, Birmingham. 8, H. Allsop. 
ANTWERPS.—Blue.—l, JW. Ludlow. Dun—i and 2, J. W. Ludlow. he, T. 
Marlow, Handsworth. Red Chequered.—i, J. W. Ludlow. 2, C. Copeman, 
Birmingham. Blue Chequered—, 2, and he, J. W. Ludlow. : 
ANY OTHER VARIETY.—1 and hc, W. Bankes, Runcorn. 2, J. Watts (African 


Owl). 
ANY AGE 
Carrrers.—Black or Dun.—Cocks—1, 2, and he, TH. Hallam. 8, J. Watts. 
Hons.—1 and hc, J. Watts. 2, H., Hallam. Any other Colowr.—Hens.—1 and 
2, J. Watts. 


January 26, 1871. J 


Povurers.—Cocks.—1 and 2, J. Watts. Hens.—1 and 2, J. Watts. 

ALMONDS AND SHORT-FACED TUMBLERS.—1 and 2, T, Hallam. 

Fantaits.—l, J. Watts. 

Ownxs.—1, J. Grosland, jun., Wakefield. 2, J. Watts. 

MorrnEs AND RosEwincs.—l and 2, £, D. Careless. 

SADDLES AND BapGEs.—l, 2, 8, and he, G. Gordin, Handsworth. 

Nuns AND ARCHANGELS.—1, 2, and 8, W. Bankes (Nuns). 

Barss.— 1 and he, H. Allsopp. 2, J. Watts. 

Dracoons.—Blue.—l1, G. Green, King’s Heath, Birmingham. 2, J. Watts. 
Any other Colowr.—1 and 2, H. Allsopp (Silver). 8, J. W. Ludlow (Yellow). 
he, H. Allsop (Silver); H. R. Wright, Hockley, Birmingham. 

ANTWERPS.—Blue.—l, H. R. Wright. 2, J. W. Ludlow. 8,3. Watts. Dun.— 
1, 2, and 8, H. R. Wright, he, J, W. Ludlow. Blue Chequercd.—i, 2, and 3, J. 
W. Ludlow. he, H. R. Wright. Red Chequered.—l, H. R. Wright. 2 and 3, J. 
‘W. Ludlow. Cocks (Any variety).—1 and 2, H. R. Wright.48, J. Watts. fe, C. 
Copeman (2); H. R. Wright. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—Pairs.—l, 2, and 8, W. Bankes (Brunette, Blondinette, 
Blue and Silver Turbits, and English Owls). Equal 2, J. Watts (Dentillettes). 
Single Birds.—1, J. W. Ludlow (Damascene). 2 and 8, H, Allsop. 

TUMBLERS (Clear-legged).—l, E. D. Careless. 


DUMFRIES AND MAXWELLTOWN 
ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY’S SHOW. 


Tue twelfth annual exhibition of Poultry, Pigeons, and Canaries 
took place inthe Mechanics’ Hall, Dumfries, on the 17th and 18th inst. 

In number of entries the Show was considerably behind that of last 
year, but in respect to superior quality the exhibition was one of the best, 
af not the very best, the Society has had. The arrangements were ex- 
cellent, and reflected great credit on the committee of management, 
and the indefatigable secretary, Mr. John Maxwell. A very noticeable 
feature in the prize-cards was a new form of card for the first prizes in 
the Poultry classes. A very tastefully designed card has the particu- 
lars and class, and the date of the Show printed in gold on the margin, 
which is crimson or blue morocco leather. In the centre of tho card 
is a beautifully executed coloured specimen of the class of bird for 
which the prize-card is intended. 

The following is a comparison of the entries :— 


1870. | 1871. 
Poultry -. 229 | Poultry . 172 
Ducks .. 0 31 | Ducks... 16 
Bantams 67 Bantams 43 
Pigeons .. Bent NE Pigeons ..... 73 
Cage Birds...... Mivisleerefoleies 29 «|| CALONDITAA, cnsicccicei dense: CO 

538 892 


The competition in Pigeons was nearly equal in the number of 
entries to the Show of last year, and in regard to quality was first-rate, 
asin some of the classes nearly the whole were highly commended. 
Of Carrier Pigeons there were five entries, and this class commanded 
a good deal of attention, the interest being, doubtless, stimulated by 
the feats which these swift-winged messengers are now doing at Paris. 

Of cage birds there was 2 great falling-off in the entries, tha 
number being 88 against 129 last year. Some of the Dumfries Canary 
champions were fairly beaten on this occasion, even the redoubtable 
James Thorpe, having only succeeded in gaining two first prizes and 
five seconds out of sixteen entries. Only four other prizes were gained 
by competitors in Dumfries and Maxwelltown. The rest of the prizes 
were won by exhibitors from a distance. The first-prize Goldfinch 
Mule was said by the Judges to be the finest specimen of its class they 
had ever seen. 


Duckwings, Whites, and others Greys.—l, J. Brough. 2, R. W 
Chickens.—1 and he, T 


SPA: _ 2, W. Paterson, Langholm. _ he, H. 
Wilkinson, Earby. Chickens.—l, W. Paterson. 2, H. Wilkinson, he, A. Walker, 


J : ¢ u tickens.—l, J. Nicholson 
jun, Carlisle. 2, H. Pickles, jun. he, J. Armstrong, Longtown; WwW, Bachop, 
Stonefield, Paisley; A. Crosbie, Melrose. Silver-pencilled.—l and 2, H. Pickles, 
jun. fhe. Mrs. J. Pool. Chiciens—i and 2, H. Pickles, jun. he, J. Holburn. 
ANY OTHER VarrEry.—l, H. Pickles. jun. (Polands). 2, J. P. Faweett, Whitby 
(Black Hamburghs), he, Com. G. F. Lyon (Houdans); Mrs. Hume (Houdans); 


Workings). he, W. Linton, Selkirk (Créve-Cceur), 


Ducks.—4ylesbury.—1, D. Hardie. 2 and he, Com. G. F. Lyon. c Mrs. J 
Bell. Rouen—l, J. Thomson: 2, Com. G. F. Lyon. he, D. Hardie. ce D, 


2, T. Scott. 8,3. Knocker, Southwick. Buff.—Cociks 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 75 


Hardie; E.J.Jones. Any other Variety.—1, S. & R. Ashton (Carolina), 2, F.E. 
Schofield, Morpeth (Black East Indian). hc, Com. G. F. Lyon. 


Prezons.—Pouters.—1, J. Waddell. 2 and c, G. B. Phillips, Ayr. he, G. J 
Dart. Carriers.—1, J. Mair, jun., Kilmarnock. 2, W. Taylor, Durham. ic, G. 
J. Dart. c,J.G. Orr, Beith. Fantails.—1, J. Douglas, Thornhill. 2 and he, T. 
Wilson, Stewarton. ¢, A. Crosbie. Tumblers (Short-faced).—1 and 2, 7. 
Wilson. he, Miss M. Douglas, Thornhill. c,J. Turner, Dumfries. (Common). 
—1, G. B. Phillips. 2, J. Arnott, Dumfries. he, J. Wilson. c, EH. M‘Kie, 
Dumfries. Barbs—landc,G.J. Dart. 2, W. Taylor. he, J. Mair. 
1, T, W. Kilburn, Bishop Auckland. 2 and he, T. Rule. Trumpete 
2, T. Rule. he, T. W. Kilburn. ¢, J. G. Orr. Turbits. Ma: 
2,3. Waddell. he, A. Crosbie. c, T. Rule. Any other 7 
(Letz). 2and he, G. P. Philips (Magpies). 

CANARIES, &e. 

Scoron Fancy.—Yellow.—Oocks.—1, R. Bryden. 2 and 3, T. Scott. C. 
Hens.—l, J. Thorpe. 2, T. Scott. 8, W. Welsh, Dumfries. Buji—Cock. 
8, T. Scott. 2, J. Thorpe. Hens.—l, T. Scott. 2, J. Thorpe, 3, J. M 
Maxwelltown. 

PreBaLp.—Yellow.—Cocks.—1 and 8, T. Scott. 2, D. Gibson. Heng.—l and 

T. M‘Millan, Wishaw. 
. M‘Innes. 
2, J. Thorpe. Buy.— 


r Frew. 
sty.—1, A. Crosbie 


2and8, T. Scott. Hens—l, R. Bryden. 2, T. Scott. 
GoupFINcH MuLeEs.—Yellow.—1 and 8, J. Coupland. 
1,A. Law. 2,3. Little. 8, W. M‘Donald, Newabbey. 
GOLDFINOHES.—1 and2,J.Thorpe. 8, A. Martin, Castle-Douglas. 
Jupers.—Poultry: Mr. R. Teebay, Fulwood, Preston.  Figeons? 
Mr. J. Huie, Glasgow. Canaries: Mr. W. Allison, Glasgow, and R- 
Crawford, Kilbirnie, Ayrshire. 


THE SCOTTISH COLUMBARIAN ASSOCIATION, 
EDINBURGH. 
(Concluded from page 40.) 


Tr the Ponter classes at Edinburgh manifested the constancy of the 
Scotch fancier, no less did the other varieties demonstrate his versa- 
tility. These appeared in numbers but little inferior to: the late 
Glasgow gatherings, and in quality fairly representative—facts the 
more encouraging seeing how closely the Exhibition followed upon 
those of London and Birmingham. It will not savour of indifference 
to the general classes, whose characteristics are so often discussed, to 
single out Fantails for honourable mention. They indeed are rapidly 
becoming a speciality, only second to Pouters, with fanciers north of 
the Tweed, whose taste has led them to the cultivation of those smaller 
varieties endowed with so many graces of form, carriago, and gesture, 
and differing in many essential xespects from the woodcut in a late 
number of this Journal. The unrivalled excellence and charm of the 
Fantails were generally admitted ; their unceasing tremulousness so 
desired by competitors, and their dainty, tiptoe, gyratory motion, ex- 
citing amongst visitors the liveliest curiosity, and in some an almost 
pitying wonderment. Few could bo persuaded that these highly valued 
properties were natural ancestral features, and those who conceded 
that possibility evidently cherished the conviction that Darwinian 
principles must at some time have got into strange alliance with 
habits of the “Grecian bend” order. If it would not seem hyper- 
critical, exception might be taken to the provision of separate classes 
for young birds as superfluous, and to the small number of coloured 
specimens appearing—a deficiency, however, to be easily rectified, but 
at no sacrifice to the peculiarities s0 apparent in the Whites. Both 
the President and Vice-President have long been leaders in the endea- 
your to popularise the Fantail classes, and both must have been grati- 
fied with the success now recorded, quite irrespective of their honours 
as prizetakers. 

The prizo list, already published in full, included many new and 
welcome names in addition to thoso of femiliar note, and the judgment 
was entrusted to Messrs. Corker and Wolstenholme, who, with that 
fatality which so frequently clings to the office of judge, were fettered 
in their labours to the loss of some four or five hours of precious day- 
light. The maturity of every arrangement could not reasonably be 
expected on a first occasion, but, with experience gained, the Associ- 
ation must be among the first, by stringent measures, to protect both 
judges and competitors from prejudice; and in a place of such acces- 
sibility as Edinburgh no excuse must be admitted for late arrival of 
birds, especially in the case of local exhibitors. Of the awards them- 
selves, it must ever be borne in mind that in any show of sterling 
quality many birds of great stud value will remain unplaced; and 
although first prizes should proclaim the ‘“‘ Derby cracks” for the year, 
yet secondary awards in some cases may stand on a similar level of 
merit, the placing indicating no more than the tendency of taste in 
the judges for the time being. 

Future Prospects.—This, the first show of the new Association, 
cannot be dismissed without some general and anticipatory remarks. 
The change from Glasgow to Edinburgh for the annual Scottish tour- 
nament was admittedly an experiment, but one more than justified 
by the event. It implies no disunion amongst the competitors them- 
selves, but rather is the natural outcome of their growing interests. 
In short, the Edinburgh public has proved so sympathetic, that what 
before was compassed by the arduous and costly effort of the fanciers 
alone will in future be accomplished with all the advantages of external 
support and appreciation ; for after an exhibition so pleasantly inau- 
gurated Hdinburgh will look forward to a yearly renewal of the erati- 
fication, while that capital better meets the convenience of southern 
friends, who are ever cordially welcomed across the border. 

Whatever may bo the plans under discussion for future adoption, 
there is a path open to the Scottish Columbarian Assocation especially 
worthy of its notice, and more than suggested by the estimation now 
attaching%to the fancy3Pigeon interest. For some years Scotland has 


76 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ January 26, 1871. 


led the van in the superior arrangement and conduct of competitive 
exhibitions, and while Edinburgh displays an unflagging zeal in the 
same direction, much may yet be done to develope the art of exhibit- 
ing, to infuse into public shows a character of refinement, and to 


excite a higher regard for tasteful surroundings, particulars in which | Canrp1a, Smyrna 
5 ° 


the Association has considerable opportunity for distinguishing itself 
and of becoming an influence for good. And in sucha care for ex- 
ternals a harmony may be discovered, for the culture of fancy Pigeons 
strongly appeals to the artistic sense. Without taste, without nice 
perception, without superior powers of discrimination and comparison, 
as well aspire to be an artist of distinction as a successful fancier, no 
matter what the variety selected for cultivation. 


Tasteful and appropriate exhibition arrangements should follow as | 
by natural sequence; and shows ambitious for national or metropolitan | 
distinction, so far from being behindhand in such matters, must set | 


the fashion. Edinburgh has begun well, and seems thoroughly to 


understand, in common with the National Peristeronic Society and the ; 


London Exhibition Committee, that the arena of competition, the 
furnishings, the style and distribution of the pens, the care bestowed 
upon the birds, and, pre-eminently, the comfort and convenience of 
the visitors, are all elements for good or for evil, and greatly influence 
the public. The adoption and maintenance of worthy exhibition sur- 


roundings will not fail to have a favourable reaction on the birds. | 


Competitors will more than ever realise the importance of bringing , 
their birds to exhibition in “race horse” condition—bright, sleek, and | 


sound, and by sheer contrast a death blow will be dealt to that jaded, 
overworked, and bedraggled appearance which is the very negation of 
the artistic or the refined. 

Directing attention, therefore, to the “internal” rather than the 
“local” surroundings ‘as most concerning the fancier, the Scottish 


Columbarian Association, in conclusion, may be congratulated on its | 


merited success, and may be commended to a further development of 
those exhibition refinements so consonant with the pursuit as an art, 
2nd so appealing to the uninitiated —W. VoncKman. 


A PIGEON FANCIER’S NOTES BETWEEN 
BIRMINGHAM AND SMYRNA. 


Tau at Smyrna, after fifteen years’ life in good old England 
the memory of which I shall cherish for life, while I wil! 
retain, so far as it depends on myself, the friendship and 
brotherly love of those I proved true, looking with joy at their 
portraits, and the souvenirs they have honoured me with. I 
embraced the first opportunity of fulfilling what I promised to 
my fellow columbarians, and shall always be ready to forward 
all I consider desirable acquisitions to my fellow fanciers at 
large, on condition that orders from unknown correspondents 
must be endorsed by the approval of the Editors of this Journal, 
or my successor, Mr. J. W. Ludlow, Edward Place, Vauxhall 
Road, Birmingham. 

Commencing to sketch my journey, the first country I 
entered on leaving England was Belgium, the mother of the 
Antwerps. What a chance, I thought, to stay in Brussels till 
the Pigeon market-day (Sunday), to see if I could procure any 
suitable specimen of this fast tribe, to send to my Birming- 
ham friends for crossing purposes? I visited the market, 
which was very largely attended, being the day of the Belgian 
Independence, but in vain, as there was not one bird worthy of 
my purpose. I witnessed the departure of nearly all the birds 
from the cages of their owners, who liberated them to lighten 
their burden homewards. and immediately afterwards I took 
my departure through Germany (sadly interrupted by the 
various trains to and from the seat of war), for the Austrian 
capital, in which I stayed long enough to see if I could find 
there any acquisition of Pouters (pigmy), as it is of no use to 
look for improvement upon the specimens in the possession 
of our Scotch and English fanciers. There were some pretty 
birds of this tribe, but I was advised not to risk sending them, 
as if was not very safe for human beings to find their way 
through Germany, much less birds. Losing all hope, I re- 
sumed my journey by train, then by the romantic Danube, 
_and then by the Varna railway to Varna, and from Varna 
through the Black ‘‘frightfully Black” Sea, to Constantinople, 
the most noble and beautiful city in the world seen from a 
distance, but the most filthy and barbarous in itself! Here I 
found a few pretty birds, but knowing that I was going to their 
birthplace, where I had, seventeen years ago, known the most 
beautiful of all Toy Pigeons, including the exquisite Sati- 
nette, which I extensively introduced then, I passed them, 
and resumed my journey. Arriving in Smyrna, I commenced 
at once inquiries for my old friends and fellow fanciers, in the 
absence of Pigeon dealers; but, alas! few—very few—of my old 
friends are left. I contrived, however, within a month te gro- 
cure twenty-four pairs of new varieties—Toy birds—and for- 
warded them by the steamer direct to Liverpool, for my friend, 


“en 


Mr. Ludlow, to be disposed of to members of our Society, and I 
am gratified to find the result was all I could wish. I intend 
to send in my next communication full descriptions of the birds 
I sent, and of those existing in this part of the world.—H. P. 


BIRMINGHAM MUFFED TUMBLERS. 


I sze@ to convey through your Journal my thanks to the Birmingham 
Columbarian Society for the additional information relative to these 
Tumblers, contibuted in reply to my own observations; and I have 
to acknowledge the compliment of the very explicit nature of this 
information upon peculiarities the Society state to be not worth men- 
tioning, since exemplified at any Pigeon shop—in Birmingham, I 
assume—by birds sold at the cheap rate of 10s. per dozen. As E do 
not frequent the Birmingham Pigeon shops I feel favoured by this 
intimation, and hope it may not be profitless to myself and other 
strangers to the Birmingham mart, curious as to the blood of the 
Tumblers confessedly exhibited and identified with the Tumblers the 
subject of our notice. The summary, if I understand the Society, is 
that birds with the clear and muffed legs and the odd eyes do appear 
in the broods from parent birds the opposite in each peculiarity, or in 
apparently reverse relation of parents to offspring; and that the 
diversity of clear and muffed legs is to be attributed to a back cross of 
the Long-muffed with the Clear-legged Tumbler to break or diminish 
the muff of the progeny. Thus, that extreme variations of leg occur 
—i.e., a clear, a diminished, and a long muff, from the same parent- 
age, though such parentage be diverse itself, and so betrays its own 
pedigree of the back cross inferred ; but that the odd eye is a mystery, 
and called a ‘‘ bull eye,” and is black, and not hazel, as stated by me, 
which eye—the evil eye—the Society, however, will “get rid of” as 
soon as practicabie. Very well. The Society will forgive me repeat- 
ing, though, that this odd eye is hazel—i.c., the iris is hazel and the 
pupil black, else my own eyes are “‘colour-blind”—an infirmity the 
Society will pardon me the vanity of repudiation. Precisely as the 
gravel or pearl eye is so termed from the colour of the iris, so is the 
odd eye in question, from its iris, properly called a hazel eye. Sub- 
stantially, therefore, the Society and I are agreed upon the peculiari- 


| ties I submitted to be omitted in a former contribrtion from the 
| Society, and now amply supplied. 


The Society complains rather jealously and testily of some who 
would ‘‘anathematise” the Muifed Tumbler, and very rightly retorts 
that it would be wiser to “improve” this Tumbler until of the ex- 
cellence in size and shape of young England's standard bird—our old 
English Tumbler. And so shonld I, as an Englishman, like to see the 
Mnffed Tumbler a model bird of its class, for already I am proud to 


| affirm that my own Tumblers of this variety, not ‘‘ Pigeon-shop ” birds, 


are no despicable specimens, nor aught loth to show their mettle by 


| flights sky high and acrobatic gambols, the admiration of the neigh- 


beurhood. The Society, too, I must not omit to notice, now challenges 
comparison with our English Tumbler, in picked birds, in round 
“Brummagem ” style and excusable laudation of its own ware. 

I will try to approach the standard of the old Hnglish Sky Tumbler 
by another cross over to young England’s fancy, so as to preserve the 
muff and retain the spirit of the Birmingham and old English Sky 
Tumbler in the progeny. The present Birmingham Muffed Tumbler 
comes from Continental or European (be it Dutch or German) en- 
cestry doubtless, but grafted on our own stock of English blood, it wilt 
neither belie nor disgrace its family tradition —READER. 

P. S.—The hazel eye is very likely transmitted from a hazel-eyed 
Bald, or a Magpie with dark eyes, crossed for flight in the former, and 
feather in the latter bird, or they may be accidentally so crossed. 


COLCHESTER AND PORTSMOUTH RABBIT 
SCHEDULE. 


I am surprised to find that the fancy variety men who have written 
so much upon the injustice done to the variety classes at most shows, 
should now praise the one-sided schedule of the coming Colchester 
Show. The sum of £12 is offered in prizes, only £3 going to the Lop- 
ears, the other £9 going to'the fancy varieties. The extra weight to be 
paid for in carriage to and from the show will be double that of the 
single fancy Rabbit. Let us compare the two varieties. The very 
best fancy Rabbit there is you can buy for £2 or under, but to purchase 
a good Lop-eared Rabbit you must give from £5 to £10; also, thereis 
no difficulty in breeding a good fancy Rabbit, but you may try for 
years before you can breed a good Lop-eared Rabbit. I contend that 
on account of value alone, the Lop-ears should always take the prefer- 
ence in a schedule, but at the same time I would do justice to the 
variety classes. But Mr. Hudson has just shown us he would do the 
opposite. Of the two schedules, I maintain that that of Portsmouth is. 
the better. The Colchester Committee will find out their mistake 
when the entries close. 

If the Rabbit fanciers of England would have the whole matter put 
on a just level, they must co-operate, end neither side should try to 
swamp the other. I have often thought it would be a good plan to 
have a ‘ United Kingdom Rabbit Club” formed, say each member to- 
subscribe 1s. a-year; to appoint a secretary to correspond with each 
poultry show committee, to suggest classes for the shows, and attend 


January 26, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 77 


to the interest of the Rabbit fanciers. If something of this kind were 
carried out, it would, I doubt not, put an end to all jealousy betwixt 
the various fanciers, and they would increase both in numbers and 
respectability —M. Mizuiveton, York. 


SILVER CUPS AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE 
CANARY SHOW. 


Waar does it mean when you are told to “wire in?” Ts it an 
electrical, mechanical, physical, or mental operation? I ean find itin 
no dictionary, not even in the newest claiming to have some thousands 
of new words, nor in any published list of obsolete terms. I am told 
it is an English way of rendering a common expression found in I 
forget what language (but it is written in characters about as legible 
as those mysterious Arabian-Nights-looking blotches on tea chests), 
and is a verb neuter, signifying to set about a thing with energy, but 
that it conveys more meaning than words can tell, something like our 
word ‘“‘humbug,” than which a more expressive word we have not. 

In the columns of ‘‘ our Journal” there is to-day a statement from 
“Yours ever, H. A.” respecting the above, from which will be seen 
what is intended to be done. The cups can all be raised if the sup- 
porters of each division to which a cup is appropriated will only ‘“ wire 
in.” Isn't it afamous word? Ihave the Belgian piece of plate in 
hand, and if Belgian fanciers will at once send in their donations to 
me, or, better still, direct to Mr. Ashton, their cup can soon be made a 
certainty. I am aware that the classification of the Belgians is neither 
on so extended a basis, nor have they so liberal a prize scale, as more 
favoured varieties have extended to them; but the indifference of 
exhibitors is to blame for this, as Iam sure a proper representation 
made in the proper quarter would remedy this defect. This should 
not deter any from subscribing a mite, but all should ‘ wire in” with 
a will, and support what is undoubtedly the show of shows, and by a 
display of enthusiasm induce Mr. Wilkinson to make such an altera- 
tion in the schedule next year as will meet the views of all classes of 
exhibitors. 

Mr. Stansfield, of Bradford, who has the Mule cup to fill up, writes 
me he has about a hundred names on his list. Well done! I can 
only repeat my sloggan ‘‘ Wire in,” and most likely you will have 
enough for two cups, which assuredly there should be, unless Jonques 
and Mealies are to be weighed in an even balance irrespective of 
eolour. And the ‘‘ Any other variety” class, containing as it does 
most extraordinary hybrids, will it have a separate cup? If ever a 
* man had a ‘‘call” (I think that’s the right word), a call to “ wire in,” 
Mr. Stansfield is the man, andthe ‘‘ Any other variety of Mule” class 
is his field of labour. 

Remember, all who are collecting for cups, the Show will open on 
February 11th—that is, in a fortnight; and you, whose name is legion, 
who intend to respond to ‘‘ Yours ever, H. A.,” in this movement, 
send in your donations at once, that on the opening day the cups may 
decorate the table in the snug little corner behind the door of the 
tropical department.—W. A. Barston. 


As the Crystal Palace Canary Show is now not very far distant, 
allow me through your valuable paper to inform Canary fanciers that 
Tam again trying to raise money for silver cups, as last year; but as 
the time is so short I have, instead of doing it all myself, asked dif- 
ferent fanciers to take a class each, and the following have most 
kindly consented:—Mr. Blakston for Belgians, Messrs. Moore and 
Wynne for Norwich, Mr. Stansfield for Mules, Mr. Waller for London 
Fancies, Mr. Harrison (I think), for Cinnamons, and myself for 
Hizards. I hope that all intending exhibitors will not delay, but send 
in their names and the amount they wish to subscribe at once. I 
think those who won cups last year ought certainly to subscribe this 
year.—Howarte Asuton, Polefield Hall, Manchester. 


NortHampron Poutrry SHow.—Your readers willsee by an adver- 
fisement in this Journal, that we hold our second annual Show on 
the 8th and 9th of March. About fifty classes will be open for com- 
petition—twenty-five for poultry, and the remainder for Pigeons and 
Rabbits. The prizes will be uniform throughout, unless any special 
prize be subscribed for. We have introduced a class for Malays, and 
hope breeders and admirers of this class will support us. We can at 
present afford only two pzizes for the best and the second best cock 
and hen, but we think it needs only to be mentioned to bring us suffi- 
cient to support the class with four prizes—viz., for the best and 
second best cock, and the best and second best pair of hens, the same 
as in our other classes forlarge fowls. In the Pigeon classes there will 
be two classes for Pouters instead of one, and the same for Carriers.— 
Wits HomPnrers. 


FOUL BROOD. 


“To the controversy so ably carried on by Mr. Lowe and the 
“DEVONSHIRE Ben-KEEPER,” Seven years ago, we are indebted 
for much of the valuable information that has appeared in the 
pages of ‘our Journal” on the subject of foul brood. The 
former never had any experience of the complaint, and be- 
lieving that bees enjoyed immunity from anything of the nature 


of an epidemical visitation, endeavoured to show that all the 
evils complained of by the latter might be traced to an im- 
proper interference with hives, whereby the young larve were 
killed and left to rot in their cells. In elucidation of his views 
he drew an amusing picture of the doings of experimentalists, 
but in writing that article, which bore all the features of a 
caricature, I am well assured he had not the slightest intention 
of giving offence to anyone. Taking it for granted that the 
laws of Nature had been violated, and that the appearances 
which presented themselves in Mr. Woodbury’s apiary were 
due, not to the presence of disease proper, such as scarlet 
fever or small pox, but to some evil or defect artificially 
created, he intimated that health would certainly be restored 
by complete excision of the affected parts. 

The question, therefore, in the first instance, to be solved 
was this, Is foul brood a real*disease, a spreading epidemic, 
and infectious ? or is it merely an artificial malady, caused by 
chilled and dead larvw, and one that can be eradicated by a 
simple removal of the evils introduced? To determine this 
point certain experiments were undertaken, which have been 
detailed in the Journal, and I think it was clearly proved in 
the cases described that foul brood was communicated by in- 
fection, that it found its way into hives where no chilled and 
dead larvyw were previously present, that it could not be cured 
by any amount of excision of the tainted combs, and that it 
was a true disease—a pestilence extending itself—and ag con- 
tagious as any which afflict the human family. 

Now I, for one, will not charge Mr. Lowe with either ignor- 
ing or disbelieving the evidence adduced on the subject, al- 
though he may not have stated in the Journal that he is com- 
pletely satisfied with the proofs that have been offered. Ii I 
mistake not he is ready to assent to the view that foul brood 
is of the nature of a pestilence, infectious, and incurable by 
excision, and wishes us to regard his present contention as 
relating entirely to its causation or origin. It has been shown 
by Mr. Woodbury and others that chilled brood, even in a 
putrefying state, when placed in a hive does not necessarily 
produce disease; but whilst accepting the fact, and also ad- 
mitting thatin the summer season @ strong swarm will speedily 
clear out all decaying larvee, I yet do not think Iam precluded 
from holding the view that putrescent matter may have much 
to do with the introduction of foul brood into our hives. 

The theory which finds most favour at the present time is 
that which ascribes putrefaction to the presence of living or- 
ganiams developed from germs floating in the atmosphere. In 
the dead subject these microscopic objects find a suitable nur- 
sery for their propagation; and I can conceive that under 
peculiar conditions of temperature, moisture, &c., and whilst 
they are being developed, there may be evolved an element of 
destruction—call it a virus, if you likxe—which, fastening upon 
young larve and killing them, may produce putrefaction of a 
specific character, or true foul-brood corruption. It may be 
said that no such metamorphosis in the character of putre- 
faction has ever been witnessed, and that a corruption which 
is infectious has not arisen from corruption non-infectious. 
Well, fever may not be directly caused by filth, but the disease 
is, nevertheless, frequently generated amid unsanitary con- 
ditions. There seems to be no reason for thinking that some 
particular combination of elements may not give rise to 
diseases of the zymotic class, although their prevalence in any 
locality may often be due to infection or contagion. It is said 
that true Asiatic cholera, without infection being present, 
spontaneously arose in the House of Industry, at Coventry, in 
1838, and many are of opinion that this fell plague has its 
origin in the exhalations arising from animal and vegetable 
matter in a state of decomposition. Now, when making some 
remarks on the theory of Dr. Preuss I stated ‘‘ with a caveat” 
that there appeared to be some cases of weak hives that were 
healthy allowing in spring or autumn chilled brood to decay 
in the cells without any attempt to remove them, and that 
injurious results had followed the use of combs from which 
putrid Jarve had been extracted. But Iam not satisfied yet 
with the proof I possess, and 1 would be glad if any apiarian 
who has made observations on the point, would record his 
experience. 

In regard to the cure of foul brood, there can be no doubt 
that chloride oi lime has sufficient power to cope with the fatal 
influence, whatever that may be. It was used with complete 
suacess by the ‘‘ DrvonsHinz BEE-KEEPER,” in the purification 
of his boxes, and his facts have been fully corroboreted. It 
cannot, then, be said we are still without a remedy, but we 
would like to know of an agent that we cau make use of for 


78 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


disinfecting the combs. Dr. Abbe informs us that it may be j 
done by means of hyposulphiie of soda. 

As to overheated and suficcated brood causing disease, which 
is the doctrine advocated by ‘‘ A RENFREWSHIRE BEE-KEEPER,” 
I can say little, heving had no experience in the matter; but 
if bees are up to the mark it is difficult to see why they should 
permit dead larye, during summer weather, to rot in the cells 
without making a hasty and determined effort to remove them. 
Perhaps I am wrong in supposing they ars not removed, for it 
is not to the presence of decaying bodies but to the mixing of 
condensed moisture with unsealed honey that evil is ascribed ; 
bué I would respectfully ask whether it is the case that honey 
in a hive so mixed with moisture ferments, and whether it is 
found by experience that fermentation is # consequence of 
mixing sealed with unsealed honey ? ; E 

T do not remember witnessing the facts stated, nor have I 
seen honey in the unsealed ceils covered with a white mouldy 
fungus, although I have seen the fungus often enough in cells 
contsining bee-bread. In a wet season the honey collected 
abounds in water or moisture, but it does not ferment.—R. S. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Ixqurer (W. U., 4. F., and Others)—We are glad that most of you 
escaped by wisely requiring references or prepayment. With those who 
sent their fowls and have not been paid for them we cannot sympathise. 
Ti a post-office order payable ten days after date were required to be sent 
before the birds were forwarded, both seller and purchaser would be pro- 
tected. Payment could be stopped if the birds were not approved. It 
may be useful to observe that the party who applies for birds but will not 
prepay, writes from various places—Aldgate, Wild Street, Culford Road, &c_ 


BristoL Pounttzy SHow.—‘‘In the report of this Show inserted in 
the Journal of January 12th, of Dark Brahma hens, it is stated, ‘ The cup 
was taken by the first-prize Birmiogham hen, though only highly com- 
mended at Manchester the wéek before; such is the uncertainty of 
judging.” This is not correct, the Birmingham first-prize hens were not 
skown at Bristol. The hens that won the cup at Bristol were the same 
pair that won the first prize at Manchester, so that the uncertainty of 
judgment belongs to your reporter.—Ricup. TEZBAY.” E 


Bes? Feexcu Fowss (E. V. O.).—Beyond doubt we should recommend 
you the Créve-Cceeurs. They are the best French jowls. They are more 
civilised than the Houdans, and their eggs are ore-hali larger then they 
ate. You cen keep a sufficient number of breeding birds in the space 
yor name, to exhibit with suck success as their quality may warrant. 
There will be nothing in the locality in which they are kept or its space 
to prevent it, but you will not find it large enough to rear chickens. 

Manay CHsRractEenistics (Yorkshire) —Whers all the points and cha- 
tacteristics of a fowl are required, we can hardly spare the space neces- 
sary for the description of them. The best plan isto buy a book that 
describes them. We will give an outline. The Malay cock should describe 
three downward curves; one from the head to the top of the shoulders ; 
the next from the shoulders to the teil; and the last from the insertion 
of the tail to its extremity. The comb should be flattened on the head, 
but be fixed perfectly tight. The feathers should be ag hard as metal 
and very scanty; the point of the breastbone and the exposed joint of 
the wings shonid bs‘red and naked ; the throat skinny and divested of 
feathers, The same rules are required in the hen, save the third curve, 
which may be dispensed with. 


Cross BETWEEN DoREINGS AND Brana Pootras (R. H. F.).—Tha 
best cross ig from a Brahma cock and Dorking hens. It depends on the 
time of year. In November, a fortnight; in January, six weeks. It the 
fowls are not Jaying it is immaterial. 


Fow is For Smanu Space (A. R.).—In such a place as you describe, we 
should advise you to take to Dark Brahmas. They are more than average 
layers, and are amongst the hardiest fowls we know. A small space will 
serve ior the adults, but you cannot rear chickens in & small place. 


Harpy Fowts (Sarah Ann).—If you want hardy fowls for general pur- 
pores we adyise you to keep the Brahma Pootra. If you look for your 
profit from eggs you must take care to keep pullets of the proper age 
eyery year. Your ieedinug is good, but we do not like rice for food. Greaves 
are good at times, but as general food they are too stimulating. If your 
fowls have a grass run, ground cats slaked with water morning and 
evening, with whole corn for a midday meal, alternately barley and maize, 
are good-enough fecding. If you are getting eggs now you have no cause 
to complain ; you sre more fortunate than many. Feed your old Ducks 
on oats put in water with a sod of growing grass. Your young ones will 
want oatmeal or ground oats, and a little raw meat at times will help 
them if they are hatched early. It would be too long to go into the ques- 
tion of fattening fowls. You had better procure Baily’s book, it treats at 
full length of the process. 

SPANISH FoR Exurmition (Young Ezhibitor)—On no account show the 
cock with a falling comb; it is a disqualification. The bird with the 
upright comb and the emaller face is in all probability preferable in every 
way. If the breas'bone be as slightly crooked as you say, we think it 
unimportant, and radeemed by such large size at an earlyage. Thedead 
white face would be the most desirable if it be of an average size and not 
too small. Blue in the face of a pullet may be excused, but there is no 
hope for eve: a blush of red. 

Spanien Cocz’s Excess or Face (4. ©. J.).—Your Spanish cock has 
an emburras de charmes, and is suffering from excess of beauty. The 
cnly thing you can do is to cut some narrow strips of good adhesive 
plaisier, and stiap the eyelids back, so that they shall not conceal the eye. 

CocHin’s Coup, &c., Buack (Largs)—It may be they are frosted, or 
the bird may haye picked up something poisonous: either would cause 
the appearance. The treatment will be to rub the comb with strong 
camphor ointment, to give a strong doze (a good table-spoonful) of castor 
oi, and io follow with bread steeped in strong ale twice per day for 
three days. 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ January 26, 1871. 


Froor oF RoosTING-Hotse (R. H. F.).—It may be of crushed chalk 
over coal ashes, as you mention, or fine gravel, with 2 inches of sand 
over. The floor requires no washing, bat to have the fowls’ excrements 
raked off every morning. The surfacing of sand should be entirely 
Tenewed once a-year. 

BuLvEe of WHITE Roumes 1x BiuE Dracoons (Pinch Eye).—Thbis was 
the subject of a very lively discussion in our pages just five years ago, 
chiefly between Mr. Jones Percivall and Mr. Ludlow, the former adyo- 
cating the blue ramp, the latter the white ; each disputant as usual main- 
taining his own opinion to the last. Singular to say, the Indian Blue 
Rock has the dark rump, the European the white. As to Dragoons, sup- 
posing two pens were of equal excellence, but the one had blue rumps 
the other white, we think that the former being the rarer colour (and 
rarity in fancy birds goes a great way always towards constituting excel- 
lence), ought to win the prize. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CaMDEN, SQuaRE, LonDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Dare. 9 aM. Is tHe Dax. 
eiSareres | ] Shade Tem-) Radiation | ¢ 
1871 E22 Hygrome- | Diree- | Temp.| perature. |Temperature) 
Gia ter. tion ofjof Soil = 
Jan. [E274 Wind. | at 1 ft. | | , On 
a2s | Dry.| Wet | Max.) Min.| Sun. Grass. 
deg. | deg. des. | deg.| deg | deg.| deg. | In. 
37.2 | 36.5 S.W. 35.3 431 | 346 | 54.7 | 294 | 0.163 
36.4 | 36.0 | NW. | 35.5 38.8 | 84.7 | 45.3 | 31.9 | 0.026 
352 | 35.1 N.E. 35.1 37.9 | 30.5 | 40.0 | 238.0 | 0.023 
86.5 | 35.7 E. 35.3 88.5 | 844 | 38.5 | 33.2 | 0.030 
85.3 | $5.3 E. 85.0 | 42.8 | 801 | 564 | 275 | 0.420 
36.5 | 36.2 E. 85.7 | 88.6 | 33.8 | 39.0 | 30.8 | 0.090 
85.7 | 35.2 N. 36.0 | 37.0 | 340 | 382 | 324 | 0.022 
35.1 | 85.7 Es 95.4 | 39.5 | 83.2 | 446 80.5 | 0.779 
REMARES. 


18th.—Slight fog in morning; rain at intervals throughout the day. 
19th.—Overcast, with rain nearly all day; fog in evening. 
20th.—Misty morning, with occasional dripping showers. 


2ist.—Duil and overcast, but no rain during the daytime; a little wind ; 


after 9 P.ar. 
22nd.—Foggy morning ; mingled snow and rain at 1030 4a.m.3 at 5 Pu 
rain began, and from § to 10.39 P.2, it fell heavily. 
23rd.— Overcast, with showers af intervals. 
24th—Dull. Flakes of snow about 2 p.x., and a moderate fall in the 
evening, whitening roofs end nonconducting materials (such as 
planks, &c.), resting on ground. Fresh wind from N. aiter 10 P.at. 
The week is principally noticeable for an almost unbroken canopy of 
clouds, continuous cold rain, extreme dampness, and singularly uniform 
temperature, the range at 9 4.u. being less than 2°, and the entire weekly 
range only 13°—viz., irom 30.1° to 43 1°.—G. J_ Sratons. 


COVENT GARDEN MAREET.—JANvARY 25. 


WE are now experiencing the effects of this disastrous war in bein& 
shut ont of our Paris markets for Lettuces and similar things, which are 
not to be obtained of good anality from our own growers. Trad@ 
generally has experienced a slight improvement, and good descriptions 
of Grapes and Pears are in greater demand. The Potato trade report 
large arrivals both by rail and coastwise. Prices, however, remain mach 
the same, although the stocks are heayy. 


FRUIT. 

Bd. 8. dj} B. d@ gs. ad 
«eee.d Sieve 1 0 t02 0| Mulberries............1b. 0 Otod G 
Goz. 0 0 O G/} Nectarines.. ..doz 00 00 
Ib. 0 0 0 O| Oranges..... 3100 6 0 19 0 
ushel 10 0 1S G| Peaches ...... doz 60 Oo 
0 0 O O| Pears, kitchen EVdpe 0) 1220 
oo 0 0} dessert.. doz. 1 9 3 0 
0 0 oO O} Pine Apples. --lb 40 66 
00 2 G| Plums... dsieve 00 00 
ae 20 2 6G} Quinces -doz. 0 0 Oo 0 
Goosebervies ...... 0 0 0 O| Raspberries. lb. 00 00 
Grapes, Hothouse.. 4 0 8 Q| Strawberries p-lbssonu. <0, .0 
Lemons.. 6 0 10 0} Watlnuts..... 00 16 0 
Melons... L020 O..ccecceseeree P1001 0 23 0 

VEGETAELES. 
8.d. 8s. df 5.d. 3. a 
Artichokes ... 0 O0to0 0 0 4to0 0 
oparaeu on 70 10 0 TU) 350 
Beans, Kidney ....3100 20 3 0 lo 36 
Broad..... bushel! 0 0 O00 0.2 O00 
Am0 85) 10 40 70 
O09 seo 04 00 
BrusselsSprouts..jsieve 3 0 4 0 80° 6 0 
Cabbage....... Pa0 )437/0 Ons 1.0 
Capsicums 006«C060 oo.6U0U[~0 
04 08 20 40 
20 60 80 40 
16 20 06 10 
80 60 OMI sh s16 
16 30 Sy 5 38 
00 00 20 20 
20 00 66 OG 
0s 00 30 50 
08s oo $0 00 
0 3 © O0| Turnips ... 06 06 
8 0 6 O| Vegetable Marro ORs 10) 0 


POULTRY MARKET.—JaAnvary 25. 

Ir is a long Jane tbat has no turning, and the market is getting clearer, 
When the House meets we look for better things, as good as may be 
pending the abominable war. We have no doubt small Supplies of gooa 

resh poultry will make remunerative prices. 


ee 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


February 2, 1871. ] 79 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day | Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s| Clock | Day 
oan lntoie FEBRUARY 2-8, 1871. ture near London. |43 enral| Rises. | Sets Rises. | Sets. Age. | petore Year. 
| Day. Nicht.|Mean. | Days | m. h.|m. h.| m. h. | m. h.| Days. |m. 38. 
2 | TH | Meeting of Royaland Linnean Societies. | 44.6 | 31.5 | 38.0 21 40 af7 | 49 af4 | 41 afl | 35af 5 12) |)13 57: | 83 
3 F 45.0 | 30.7 | 37.9 20 88/7/50) 4 84) 25) 2786 13 14.64 34 
4 Ss Length of day 9h.16m. , | 45.0 | 82.8 | 38.9 20 CO ERY ZEN Bip Salieri 9 94/ 14 14 10 35 
5 Sun | SepTruaGEsima SUNDAY. 45.7 | 83.5 | 39.6 | 20 | 3 7/54 4/48 4/48 7 fe) 14 15] 36 
6 | M Meeting of Entomological Society, 7P.m. | 46.5 | 32.6 | 39.6 Dy ESQ Te 56 4a 20.96") TOP) 8 16 14 19 | 87 
7 | Tu | Meeting of Zoological Society, 9 p.m. | 46.9 | 83.0 | 89.9 | 24 30) 7 | 5% 5 4) 20 7) 45° 8 17 14 23 | 38 
8 Ww Meeting of Society of Arts and Royal Mi- | 45.6 | 82.0 | 88.8 22 LO TAR bO en: e3iiens) he 39) 1s | 14 25 39 
[croscopical Society. 8 P.a1. | | | 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 45.6°, and its night tempera- 
ture 32.3°. The greatest heat was 57°, on the 3rd, 1850; and the lowest cold 10°, on the 5th, 1830. The greatest fall of rain was 0.67 inch. 
bs | ey : 
EXOTIC FERNS. plant, as in the normal form the pinne are much nar- 
OAR rower on fertile fronds, and they also decay much sooner ; 
M 


with a sheet of dazzling white, it is very 
yefreshing to rest the eye for awhile on a 


Ferns is most appreciated; the different 
species of Palms are noble and worthy 
companions to them, both are highly valu- 
able for decorative purposes in winter, and 


6) URING winter, when the snow lies thickly | 
\ on the ground, and trim lawns are covered | 


mass of verdure, and it is during such a | 
period that a healthy collection of exotic | 


| A. farleyense. 


well do they repay us for the requisite attention to keep | 


them in a healthy flourishing condition. 


The Palm claims | 


our esteem for its elegant, and in many cases majestic, | 
appearance ; the Fern for its grace and infinite variety, | 


both in the form of the fronds and different shades of 
green, ever changing, ever pleasing to contemplate. In 
a previous article in your columns I gave in detail my 
method of cultivation, and some description of the most 


desirable kinds; since that time many fine sorts have | 


been introduced to our notice, more experience has been 
gained, and the present dull dreary period of the year 
reminds us of their value to add grace, beauty, and dignity 
to our stoves, apartments, and conservatories. 

The crossing of Ferns by natural and artificial means has 
been doubted by some, but the mass of evidence gradually 
accumulating must make hybridisation an established fact. 
There is a wide field of interesting and instructive study 
in the fructification of Ferns; at what time hybridisation 
is effected, whether in an early or late period of develop- 
ment, I know not; of this, however, I have no doubt, that 
if kinds of Ferns bearing affinity to each other are placed 
in a warm stove in juxtaposition, and if they remain so 
during the early and late stages of fructification, and until 
the spores are scattered in the air, there will be found 
young Ferns springing up in abundance bearing a form 
intermediate between their parents. Thus Gymnosramma 
ochracea and G. tartarea will produce intermediate forms 
dusted with sulphur-like powder; the progeny are not 
equal to either of their parents in ornamental effect, but I 
have grown dozens of them to a large size. Lomaria 
sibba and Blechnum brasiliense have produced numerous 
intermediate forms, and plants raised from this cross 
have been named. Lomaria intermedia, again, has taken 
with L. ciliata. The interesting forms of Scolopendrium 
and others of our native Ferns, exhibited by E. J. Lowe, 
Esq., of Highfield House, Nottingham, at the first meet- 
ing this year of the Royal Horticultural Society, may 
be sports, and selections, doubtless, they are, excepting 
the beautiful Adiantum Capillus-Veneris var. admirabile, 
which I could easily believe to be a cross. 

There is yet another instance of peculiarity in Ferns— 
that most beautiful of all Adiantums <A. farleyense can only 
he propagated by division, its fertile fronds producing a 
distinct variety, A. scutum. There are two very fine re- 
cently-introduced forms of Lomaria gibba—viz., L. crispa 
and L. Bellii. The latter seldom produces fertile fronds, 
which is much in favour of its usefulness as a decorative 

No. 514,—Vou. XX., NEw SERIES. 


in L. erispa the fertile fronds differ but little from barren 
ones in appearance, and there are both barren and fertile 
pinne on the same frond. I sowed spores of L. crispa in 
November last year; and in a close, moist atmosphere, 
with a minimum temperature of 60°, the young plants are 
now developing themselves. 

Of late years there have been some very fine species 
of Adiantum introduced, and assuredly the best of all is 
When this species was first introduced it 
was in many cases coddled under bell-glasses, where its 
proportions could not be seen, or its waving gracefully- 
drooping fronds and elegant pinnz, deeply fringed at the 
edges, could not be appreciated—it is grown here in an 
ordinary stove, and, under proper management, is as free 
in growth as any of the genus. The plant shows to the 
best advantage if the pot in which it is grown is placed _ 
on an inverted pot of,the same size. The fronds are very 
delicate, easily injured or even destroyed by tobacco-smoke 
which would not injure any of the others; or, if exposed 
to a draught, such as from opening and shutting the door, 
or placing the plant too close to the side ventilators, it 
will not give satisfaction. It succeeds well in a compost 
of equal parts of turfy loam and turfy peat torn to pieces 
by the hand, with a liberal proportion of silver sand. 
Careful watering is also an important element of success. 
The other day I measured a noble plant of A. farleyense, 
in Messrs. Veitch’s nursery at Chelsea, having a spread 
of fronds 4 feet across and 4 feet high. The variety, 
A. scutum, has been grown here for several years; it is 
a very desirable Fern; the fronds are not so very sus- 
ceptible to atmospheric influences as those of A. farleyense, 
but it does not grow so freely, nor does it make such 
handsome specimens. A. peruvianum is a stove Fern 
of free growth, somewhat resembling A. trapeziforme, 
but having its fronds, which are thrown up freely, more 
pendant; it is very elegant in growth, and a desirable. 
acquisition. During last season I noted a very desirable 
variety of Adiantum Capillus-Veneris named maximum ; 
the pinne are much larger than in the normal form. 

There was also a very fine Davallia, perhaps the best, 
introduced to the public last year, and one of the most 
beautiful of stove Ferns; it is well named Mooreana. It 
has pale green gracefully-arching fronds over 2 feet in 
length. As it is easily cultivated and free-growing, it 
ought to be in the most select collection of Ferns. There 
is also Gymnogramma Pearcei, a very pleasing species 
with finely-cut fronds. There isin the hands of Messrs. 
Veitch a very beautiful miniature tree Fern, Leptopteris 
Wilkesiana ; the imported plant has a stem a foot high, 
the fronds are very thin in texture, and the plant requires 
a moist warm atmosphere. The best way to grow Lep- 
topteris, and the nearly allied genus Todea, is to have a 
small glass structure erected in a shady part of the green- 
house, and if some arrangement can be made to plunge 
the pots in sand or shell gravel, the plants will require 
but little water, as the glass case must be kept close. 
Leptopteris Fraserii and superba, Todea pellucida and 

No, 116¢.—Vou, XLY., OLD SERIES, 


80 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 2, 1871. 


eee eee SSS 


T. arborea, do well in such a place. I tried to grow T. pellucida 
under a bell-glass in a stove temperature, but it did not make 
any progress until it was removed to the greenhouse, when it 
began io flourish at once. 

It may be remarked here, that in raising Ferns from spores, 
if it can be managed it is best to remove the pans to a house 
where there are no specimens, a2, if itis ascarce Fern difficult to 
raise, numerous spores from common kinds will find their way 
into the pan. To prevent this in a measure, a square of glass 
neatly fitting over the top is desirable.—J. Douatas. 


POTATOES—DISEASE—MERITS. 


A creat deal bas appeared in the Journal lately on the sub- 
ect of this favonrite esculent, and if I take off my coat to enter 
the arena it is not that, like Paddy, I would trail it along the 
ground and ask, ‘‘Is there any jintleman that would like to 
tread on it?” for I do not feel at all inclined to dispute. I 
haye nothing to do with the subject of cultivation; so much 
has been said by so many of your correspondents—and well 
said—that it leaves little for anyone else to say; and I know 
that in the case of some, such as Mr. Sage, their theory is 
borne out by their practice, for a more perfect example of 
Potato-growing I never saw than with him when he was at Sir 
Edward Dering’s at Surrenden, where, indeed, under difficult 
circumstances he displayed in all departments of his garden 
the skill of an adept. There is one point in connection with 
Potatoes which I would like to say a word about, and that is 
the subject of the disease. 

Iam more than ever persuaded that this is a mystery totally 
unsolved, as great a mystery as it was in the days when it first 
made its appearance. Let me take the past season as an 
example. I rather astonished some good horticulturists from 
various parts the other day, when I stated that I had never 
had the Potato disease so badly in my garden as last year. 
“ Disease! What, last year! 
eased root!” Yet so it was. A few miles off the Potatoes 
were perfectly free from disease, although small, but all around 
me they were bad. Some of the cottagers here had not one 
good Potato in five; they grew out—supertuberated as it is now 
called—grew away like wildfire, but the produce was very dis- 
appointing. <‘‘ Perhaps you too highly manured,” says one. 
Well, one place where I grew mine was a portion of a meadow 
which had not been turned up for twenty years and had not a 
spoonful of manure put upon it, so that will not hold. ‘Ah! 
but,” whispers my friend Mr, Radclyfie, ‘‘ you did not dig up 
early enough.” Well, I dug up some Lapstones early in August 
and others early in September, and there was no difference. 
**But perhaps you grew only delicate kinds.” Wrong again. 
I grew thirty-six different varieties, a thing I am not likely to 
do again, and one thing only I have found—that the coarser 
the Potato the less liable it seems to be to be attacked. But 
this again varies in other places, for I remember seeing this 
year some of the very coarsest red Potatoes grown (called March 
Reds here), as badly diseased as any, so that I believe the Po- 
tato disease to be one of those things ‘‘no fellow can under- 
stand.” 
ence cannot be denied, and that the first week of August seems 
to be about the time of its commencement is also undeniable. 
I have never but once seen early Potatoes suffer from it, and if 
by early planting the crop could be ripened off by the beginning 
of August I expect the tubers would be pretty safe. This is Mr. 
Radclyfie’s plan, and I believe it answers with him. 

With regard to what constitutes a good Potato I have very 
decided and perhaps hypercritical notions, but unless we have 
& good standard we shall be inundated, as we already are, with 
rubbish. These qualities come, I think, in the order named 
—1, Flavour; 2, Texture; 3, Colour; 4, Form. With regard 
to flayour, there are some people who discern no difference. 
A Potato is a Potato, and that is all; it may be earthy or not, 
mealy or waxy, itis nothing tothem. Now to this I cannot 
Subscribe. So necessary an article of food ought to be as good 
as we can getit. Itis as useful as bread, and we ought to be 
as careful to haye good Potatoes as good bread. Ifa Potato is 
earthy and strong I think all its other good qualities avail it 
nothing. And here let me protest against a statement made 
Some time since in a contemporary, that it was a mistake to 
boil Potatoes in their skins, that they always had an earthy 
taste. Now, I would never boil a Potato, they ought either to 
be steamed or baked. To boil Potatoes peeled is to boil all 
flavour out of them; and well do I remember Power, the in- 
imitable Trish actor, describing his yisit to England, saying, 


Why, we have not seen a dis- | 


That it is dependant somehow on atmospheric infiu-. 


“‘ Them’s a barbarian people, they peels their taters afore they 
biles them.” A Potato should not be sweet, but should have 
a peculiarly delicate flavour unlike any other vegetable one can 
name. As to texture, mealiness isan essential to a good Po- 
tato, but this, withal, not of too decided a character; there 
ought to be firmness as well—no medium. Mr. Fenn’s On- 
wards is too floury, and I believe when that is the case flayour 
suffers; but this is a much rarer defect than the opposite, 
closeness. Some people prefer a waxy Potato, and there is no 
accounting for taste, but I think no true judge of the esculent 
will agree with this perverted judgment. Colour, of course, is 
not so material a point as the others, but a Potato ought neither 
to be yellow nor red; when it is yellow there is generally a 
tendency to waxiness, and when red to coarseness. A Potato 
ought always to be white inside. As regards form, my own 
preference goes decidedly in every respect for the kidney or 
pebble-shaped Potato, although some prefer round ones. But 
whichever they are they ought to be shapely, the eyes not sunk 
deeply, and of medium size. I quite agree with my friend Mr. 
Radelyfie that middle-sized tubers are the best; even the very 
best kinds when overgrown are not so good as when smaller. 

Having thus laid down what in my opinion are the points to 
be considered in 2 Potato, I proceed to examine those which 
haye come under my notice. The soils in which I have grown 
them are a pasture whence the top spit was taken in the spring, 
and my garden, which is of a good blackish loam, such as is 
generally called good garden soil. In giving my opinion of 
the sorts grown by me I mean simply to speak of them as I 
found them. I know soil and situation have a vast influence 
on the Potato, and my judgments may not square with those 
of growers in other localities. 

First with regard to the American varieties. Of these I grew 
Early Rose, Early Goodrich, King of the Harlies or 50-Dollar 
Potato (what fools there are in the world !) Prolific, and Climax. 
These are all from one raiser, and all of the same stamp. 

Early Rose I grew on a warm bank, in light garden soil, and 
I found it a well-flavoured Potato. Some grown in another 
place were very indifferent, and I very much question whether 
in any ordinary season it will be good. With regard to all the 
others, I think them essentially bad. They are no doubt good 
croppers, and where pigs are kept this may be an advantage; 
but as to flavour they have none, except a nasty one. Their 
colour is bad, their texture close, and their form large and 
coarse. Imay add that through the kindness of one of our great 
London seedsmen, to whom I mentioned my opinion of them, 
and who somewhat questioned its truthfulness, I was enabled 
to cook a dish of each of these varieties as imported from 
America, so that I was able to give them a fair trial; and 
of the things to eat, drink, and ayoid, I should place in the 
latter category these American Potatoes. I do not see one 
redeeming feature in them, and did I not know what varying 
opinions and tastes there are in the world I should most heartily 
wonder at their beingeyer sold. ‘‘Omne ignotum pro magnijico ” 
may be true of them before trial. They come from a long way 
off, and the Americans may have different notions on these 
subjects—in fact they must have. Mr. W. Robinson exhibited 
on January 18th some of the favourite Potatoes of the Mormons, 
and they were hardly distinguishable from Boyinia, so fit only 
for pigs; but that anyone having once grown them should wish 
to again try his hand at them surpasses my belief. If this be 
American taste we are in the matter of Potatoes far ahead of 
them. ; 

My opinion of the English varieties I must postpone.— 
D., Deal. 


POINSETTIA PULCHERRIMA CULTURE. 


So much has been said about the cultivation of this plant 
that to some it will appear superfluous to say any more; how- 
ever, the fact ofits being one of the very best plants for con- 
seryatory and house decoration in winter, and the hope that my 
experience in its cultivation may induce others to grow it more 
largely, must be my excuse for these few remarks. 

I have in our conservatory just now about one hundred plants 
from 6 to 12 inches high, many with bracts 10 inches across. 
Your readers can imagine much better than I can describe the 
effect such a display will haye amongst a collection of miscel- 
laneous decorative plants. 4 

My practice is, when the plants have done blooming to put 
them all together in the corner of a light pit, the temperature 
of which is intermediate, giving them only just enough water 
to keep their roots alive—much the same as one would treat a 


February 2, 1871. JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


pot Vine at rest in winter. My oldest plants are but two years 
old; all these I throw away, keeping only those struck last 
year for growing on another season, and to propagate from, 
because I consider the summer-struck plants by far the most 
effective. 

When the plants begin to move, which will not be before the 
beginning of April if kept ag mentioned before, they should 
be cut back to three eyes; and those who have not a sufficient 
stock can easily increase it by inserting the eyes in shallow 
pans or small pots, and growing them in a genial heat through- 
out the summer; but they do not make.such good plants as 
cuttings. After being cut down, the plants should be gyringed 
once or twice 2-day according to the weather, kept close, andin 
the course of a week or ten days should haye a thorough water- 
ing with tepid water. When they have fairly started into 
growth turn them out of their pots, shake the old soil entirely 
out, and with a sharp knife cut their roots well back. Repot, 
not too firmly, in clean pots, and as small as you conveniently 
can, using a compost of two parts turfy loam, one of peat, and 
one of rotten cow dung, with a liberal admixture of silver sand. 
After potting return the plants to the same pit; or a more 
shady situation would suit them better for about a fortnight, or 
until they have again started into growth, because if they are 
allowed to flag for any length of time at this stage, through 
negligence or any other cause, it will be very injurious to them. 
When they have overcome the effect of their potting, put them 
back in a light pit, and keep them close to the glass. Give 
air freely in the morning, plenty of water, and as much room 
as you can afford them. Close the pit early in the afternoon, 
haying previously syringed walls, pipes, and all other available 
spaces. When the plants have filled their pots with roots shift 
into a larger size, and treat as before recommended. 

At the beginning of August (not later), after the plants have 
again filled their pots with roots, have in readiness, if possible, 
a dung frame with a genial sweet heat. Take off the cut- 
tings with four or five large leaves attached, insert each cutting 
singly in a 3-inch pot without removing a leaf from the shoot, 
and keep them close for about ten days or a fortnight (take care 
there is no rank heat in the frame), and they will be struck. 
When they have filled their small pots with roots, which will 
be very soon, pot and treat as recommended for the others, 
until the bracts appear, when they will do better in an ordinary 
Stove, watering them two or three times a-week with weak 
guano water. 

Anyone who will faithfully follow the practice I have en- 
deavoured to describe, cannot, I am gure, fail of success.— 
C, Tuomas, Drayton Manor Gardens. - 


CALCEOLARIAS, THEIR CULTURE AND 
FAILURES. 


Mr. Recorp having at page 44 directed attention to the be- 
haviour of the Calceolaria during the past summer, I am 
inclined to endorse much that he has said on the matter, and 
fo give my reasons for differing from him as regards some of 
the details. First of all I have not had so much experience as 
many with what is very properly called ‘‘disease’’ in these 
plants; although in certain seasons they have done badly, but 
Seldom have any died off in that sudden manner of which 
others complain, after the plant has attained a good size and 
shown every indication of good health. On more than one 
occasion, however, there has been so destructive an attack of 
aphis just before the plants were turned out, that they never 
recovered it. At another time circumstances have prevented 
our attending to them in time, and they have stood too long in 
the cutting bed and become drawn up and been otherwise in- 
jured ; both these evils I admit are capable of amendment, but 
at a very busy time it is not always possible to prevent some- 
thing being neglected, and on more than one occasion the two 
evils alluded to have marred our Calceolaria bloom considerably. 
The difftculty of ensuring them the attention they require has 
induced me on more than one occcasion to treat them with 
what I may justly call undue harshness, rather than allow them 
to spoil each other by the stifling indulgence of remaining in 
the cutting bed; in other words, I have tried planting them 
out long before the period generally thought proper, and with 
aresult that will be described. As the mode in which they are 
Wintered, and other circumstances, have considerable influence 
on their condition at planting-out time, I will commence with 
their propagation. 

Adjoining one of the walks in the kitchen garden, running 
east and west; are two brick pits, each 120 feet long, and rather 


€ 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 81 


less than 6 feet wide inside, the brickwork 44 inches thick, and 
with a timber wall plate back and front, and the height above 
ground is a little less than 18 inches in front, and something 
more than that at back; but the inequality of the ground 
makes the actual difference between the back and front about 
18inches. There are no rafters proper, but the back and front 
walls are tied together by cross pieces of timber set flush with 
them, and 10 or 12 feet apart, and there are a few brick par- 
titions dividing the pit into compartments. The whole is as 
simple and inexpensive a pit as could well be imagined. The 
absence of rafters allows of our digging, and of putting in cuttings, 
more conveniently than if they were there, while any width of 
light or shutters will fit if long enough to take a bearing on 
each side. In one of these pits adjoining the vegetable quarter 
of the kitchen garden I have for many years been in the habit 
of wintering Calceolarias, and none of our bedding kinds, ex- 
cepting, perhaps, a new or choice one, has had a place in a pot, 
pan, or box for at least eighteen years, and their treatment has 
been the reverse of coddling, yet I am constrained to say that 
in general they do not flower so well out of doors as they did 
at the commencement of that period; but as this, in my case 
at least, is owing to causes in no way connected with their 
treatment in winter, I may as well, when stating the character 
ie the cold pit, describe the mode in which they are treated 
there. 

As allusion has been frequently made to the time of putting 
in the cuttings, 1 may remark that I do not think the mere 
fact of their being put in, say at the beginning of October or 
end of November, is always the cause of their doing well or 
badly, for I have put them in as late as Christmas and as early 
as the end of September. In general, however, the condition 
of the weather and the character of the cuttings point out the 
time for propagating ; as a rule, before doing so, it is better to 
let the dry weather, which sometimes continues for a week or 
more into October, be fairly over and moist weather fairly set 
in. Do not wait until severe frosts have injured the plants, 
not but that they will bear a little frost; still itis better not . 
to be too late. In general the most of our cuttings are put in 
during October ; but as we rarely put the lights on for a long 
time afterwards, there is no inducement to hasten their root- 
ing, and sometimes their appearance, if a dry, withering wind 
occur, is not inviting; on the approach of frost, however, they 
are covered up with such odd lights as there are to spare, and, 
if these be not sufficient, with wooden shutters made of half- 
inch boards. At the commencement of the late severe weather, 
happening to have as many old lights as covered all the Cal- 
ceolarias, and some shutters to spare, the latter were laid over 
@ portion of the glass on December 20th, and remained there 
till January 21st, the Calceolarias being thirty-two days in 
darkness, and by their appearance I do not expect to lose any, 
éxcept some plants of C. amplexicaulis; even where there was 
glass only, the Calceolarias seem to have survived. A covering 
of snow during the most severe period was of much service, 
and a little snow was also thrown against the brick walls form- 
ing the sides, and as they were not uncovered until nearly ter 
days after a thaw had set in, the evils of a sudden change of 
temperature were avoided. 

Calceolarias will endure moisture and confinement to a 
degree which few other plants of similar growth will resist; 
nevertheless, for some years I have been in the habit of put- 
ting in the same pit Gazanias, Cupheos, Cineraria maritima, 
and other plants, and with a fair share of success; rows of 
these between different kinds of Calceolarias look very well at the 
present time, January 23rd. I have never been able to do much 
with Verbenas, and Centaurea, candidissima has not always suc- 
ceeded well, although C. gymnocarpa usually does. As the 
character of the Calceolaria cuttings has been alluded to by Mr. 
Record, I may say thatif I had the choice I would prefer short- 
jointed, rather stubby cuttings slipped, not cut off, with the 
ragged heel, which I would leave on, taking off only one, or at 
most two leaves; but as the character of the season determines 
the kind of cutting, it is not always that a choice can be made. 
Usually when Calceolarias have been arrested in their growth, 
say in the middle of July, by the dry weather, they flower out 
whatever shoots they have, and grow no more, or very little, 
until the moist weather of September or later again starts them 
into growth, when a rapid long-jointed growth often takes 
place, so that as a matter of necessity the cuttings must be 
shortened, as was the case with the bulk of those here the past 
season. Of course a less robust growth is met with when 
plants have been occupying some indifferent position ; but the 
propensity of the plant to furnish roots in winter is so great, 


82 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ February 2, 1871. 
. 2 


that;whatever the kind of cuttings, most of them root pretty 
freely ; succulent long-jointed shoots, with hollow stems, seem 
to stiffen after being inserted in the ground, and eventually 
furnish stocky plants. 

Our mode of putting in the cuttings is to level and dig the 
ground in tho pit, and add as much roadside or drift sand as 
seems necessary to make the soil open; but before that, if it 
should happen that the same place has had a heavy crop of 
Calceolarias upon it the preceding season, the soil is thrown 
out upon the kitchen-garden side, and as much taken from 
thence as will replace it, the exchange being equally beneficial 
to kitchen-garden crops. Of course all stones of large size are 
kept out, and the ground for the Calceolarias is not dug more 
than 6 inches deep. Sufficient sand having been added, and a 
board for the workman to stand on, he inserts the cuttings in 
rows, a8 nearly 3 inches apart as possible, and certainly not 
more than 2 inches from each other in the row; this gives 
twenty-four to every square foot, and I think there are some- 
times more than that. The cuttings remain till, probably, the 
beginning of March, when they will be well rooted, and alter- 
nate rows axe lifted out by a sharp spade being thrust in on 
each side of them. These rows are bedded out in some 
sheltered place in suitable soil, and the places they occupied 
are filled up with fresh soil, so that the plants which remain 
have more room to grow. Ivery seldom stop them, except in 
the case of some that are not likely to have a chance of being 
planted out soon, in which case stopping may be practised; 
but where there is a choice it is better to plant out first those 
which have not been disturbed at all, as they will be the most 
forward, and when this can be done, and the rudest of all 
shelter is afforded them for a little time, it will generally be 
found better than waiting later. Last year we planted out up- 
wards of three thousand Calceolarias before April 15th, and 
they did better than those that were later, although they had 
no assistance nor protection; fortunately there were no frosts 
till they had been more than a week out, and the weather was 
fayourable at the time of planting. I have also in former 
years planted out sooner than this, but it was merely a3 an ex- 
periment, and in general the end of April is early enough; at 
the same time, planting out so that the plants may have the 
benefit of a gentle shower is of more importance to the Cal- 
ceolaria than to most bedders, and where they are choking 
each other in the cutting bed delay only increases the evil, and 
renders them more and more unable to make that effort to 
grow so much needed by a plant that has to be removed. Of 
course all coverings are dispensed with late in the season, and, 
in fact, as soon as the plants show a determination to rush up- 
wards full exposure must be given, and only on frosty nights 
are the coverings put on; at other times they lie heaped one 
above another over some vacant place in the pit, or if com- 
pelled to be above plants, their positicn is changed as often as 
is required. 

Of the causes which tend to this plant failing, as it often does, 
much has been written, and certainly there is yet much to 
learn. It would be a boon to flower gardening if anyone could 
make the cultivation of the Calceolaria as easy a matter as it 
was twenty years ago; at the same time the treatment ought 
to be very simple, easy of application, and suited to other 
plants which are often made to occupy the same bed as the 
Calceolaria ; for a soil specially adapted to this plant, and that 
will not also do for many others, is next to useless in a great 
Many cases, a8 some of our most important flower beds con- 
tain three or four species of plants, and it is very inconvenient, 
often impossible, to treat one of them difierently from the rest. 

I have little hope of much success in the way above in- 
dicated ; I have certainly more faith in a judicious selection of 
varieties suited to the soil and rituation, and I believe some 
good would result from going back to the iirst imported species 
if it is to be had, for I am not sure that the long narrow-leayed 
kind often called angustifolia now, is really the original one of 
that name, neither may the short rugose-leaved kind be true. 
One of the first of the named varieties was certainly the best 
I had the past summer, and next to it was one popular about 
twenty-five years ago—viz., C. viscossima, while C. Aurea 
floribunda failed very much ; although I must own that in some 
seasons this variety has done well, still I think it is about 
worn out. My practice of late has been to plant two kinds 
together, and if in a row, alternate plants of a broad and 
narrow-leaved variety, so that in the event of one failing the 
other may succeed. In general the dwarfest varieties succeed 
worst; they seem to make least progress in growth, and now 


and then some dio off after lingering for a time in a half-dead | 


condition ; for, as I have said before, it is seldom any go off 
suddenly with us (except in the case of the so-called disease), if 
they once show signs of good health. 

With regard to the character of soil best adapted for the Cal- 
ceolaria, 1 am far from being certain that the views I now 
venture to put forth are correct, but I should say that the 
plant would seem to enjoy a soil in which lime is plentiful, 
but to add it to some fertile soils might be very imprudent, on 
account of its destroying the organic matter, so that I hardly 
expect to see Calceolarias do well in the places where Golden 
Geraniums are grown to great perfection. Many years ago I 
noticed this in some gardens in Staffordshire and elsewhere, 
about the time that Golden Chain Geranium was first in- 
troduced in quantity; the Calceolarias were anything but 
creditable, and, I believe, have become worse since. I should 
say the absence of lime had something to do with the one plant 
doing so well, and the other so badly. Of course, season has 
an influence, but the Calceolaria is rather a gross feeder, liking 
heat, depth of soil, and moisture, and when the latter is absent 
success is precarious. In my own case the plants generally 
flower well early in the season—in fact, flower themselves out, 
no growth taking place owing to the dryness of the early sum- 
mer, and when rain in sufficient quantity does come, a quick 
growth is the result, but it is then too late to flower, conse- 
quently after the second week in August, or so, Calceolaria 
bloom is far from plentiful. Watering by hand, whether bene- 
ficial or not (for I have my doubts about it), is out of the 
question with us, and even if it were of service, water could not 
be applied to Calceolarias growing by the side of Geraniums 
without the latter haying it also, and probably becoming over- 
luxuriant. 

I should be glad to fall in with some plan by which the con- 
stant flowering of this plant could be insured without that 
special management, which, if not equivalent to its prohibition, 
is certainly very inconvenient. At the same time we cannot 
well do without it. No other substitute yet proposed is likely to 
be so great a favourite; and if varieties of better constitution 
are not to be had, would it not be worth while to re-introduce 
the plant from its native mountains? and if its re-appearance 
gave us a few years of its services, as at first, the expense of 
importing it afresh might not be thrown away. Some years ago 
I had cuttings from a place one hundred miles otf to try what 
a change would effect, but that was not like introducing the 
original plant. 

From the above, it will be seen that I attribute the failures 
we haye had here with this plant to the dryness of the season 
alone, and I imagine that the plant will succeed in places where 
rain during the early summer months is more plentiful than it 
usually is with us, provided the soil and other circumstances 
are fayourable. Heat, I also believe, is an essential condition, 
and it is possibly the deficiency of heat which makes the plant 
more unwilling to grow near the coast, but control over the 
seasons is out of the question. The habit of the plant, the 
brilliancy of colour which its flowers present, and other qualities, 
make the Calceolaria a plant which we cannot do without, 
and I hope to see that uncertainty which-at present hangs over 
it removed, and the good service that it did in the flower 
garden twenty years ago resumed. Some good, no doubt, 
may be done by those who have been hitherto successful with 
it reporting the character of the soil and other particulars, 
but I fear those who have had cause to complain of it form 
the majority.—J. Roxson. 


PORTRAIT OF MR. RIVERS. 
In addition to subscriptions already announced, the follow- 
ing have been received :— 


£ s. da. 
Coleman, Mr. J. N., Great Mongeham, Deal.... 0 5 0 
Kemp, Rey. George, Sevenoaks .............. ub it SG) 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S 
SCHEDULE. 


THERE can be no question as to the very varied character of the 
prizes offered in connection with the Society’s exhibitions this year, 
and it will not be from want of encouragement if any cultivator in any 
branch of horticulture do not see something of his favourite hobby 
this year, while the Show at Nottingham, with its £1000 of prizes, 
ought to be a great success. There are some features in the new 
schedule which especially call for remark, particularly that of different 
nurserymen offering prizes for the productions they have been the 
means of introducing amongst us. Mr. W. Paul offers prizes for 


February 2, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 83 


Princess Christian Rose, and Messrs. Carter & Co. for vegetables. I | the same name—not, I believe, dishonestly so, but simply because 
think that such a course deserves the highest praise, and that were it | there is no way of comparing them. 

to be imitated by other introducers of novelties we should be better Tam sorry to see Hyacinths so poorly encouraged, and cannot but 
able to test the value of the very many varieties of new vegetables, | think the prize for eighteen white Hyacinths a great mistake.— 
and, what is more; to see how many different vegetables are out under | D., Deal. 


GROUND LEVELLING AND PRACTICAL GARDEN PLOTTING.—No. 12. 
DRAWING PLANS. 


To draw and transfer fig. 35 to the ground, form the rectangle | 39 and 40. Points 15,17, 19, 21 and 23 are found from the 
ABCD. Draw the diameter lines rr and Gu, and the other | stake at point B as points 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are found from the 
lines as 12,34, &. Lines 78, 1718, 33 34, 43 44, form the | stakeat point a. From the stake at point c find the correspond- 
square i km; on each side of the diameter lines e F and «@ H | ing points 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24; insert a peg at each point. 
point off 2 feet, and Eyou the Biake at 
draw Jines 1112, 13 . y point A, on line 4p, 
RMB OP a0; 6 Le 2 wt 6 810 le G@ It JG ie, 20.22 a28 ww 0 es Teague: 30 toot; cand 
draw the diagonal insert a peg as at 
lines in, m k; draw point51. Onthe same 
squares a Dc d and line measure § feet, 
ef g h on the diagonal and insert a peg as at 
lines. point 49; also from 

To transfer the the same point mea- 
plan to the ground, sure 12 feet, and in- 
insert a stake at point sert a peg as at point 
A, and lay a line from 47; on the same line 
point A to point sz, measure 17 feet 3 
which is 42 feet inches, and insert a 
6 inches in length; peg as at point 45; 
insert a stake at point from the peg at point 
3B; lay the line from A measure 20 feet, and 
point B to point c, insert a peg as at 
the distance between point 43; from the 
being 63 feet; insert same stake measure 
a stake at point c; 26 feet 3 inches, and 
lay the line-to point insert a peg as at - 
D, and there insert a point 41. Find the 
stake. Line c p is corresponding points 
equal to line a B. on line 8B CG, as points 
Gay the line from p 52, 50, 48, 46, 44, and 
to a, which is equal 42, From the stake 
to linepc. Lay the at point p, on line 
diameter lines E F DA, find points 25, 27, 
and ag H. From the 29, 31, 33, and 35 in 
stake at point A, on the same manner as 
line A B, measure points 51, &c., from 
3 feet (which is the the stake at point A. 
width of the grass From the stake at 
verge), and insert a point c, on line cB, 
peg as at point 1. find the correspond- 
rom the stake at ing points 26, 28, 30, 
point D find the cor- 32, 34, and 36, and in- 
responding point 2. sert a peg at each 
From the stake at point. Lay lines as 
point 4measure7 feet, from peg 1 to peg 2, 
and insert a peg as at and from peg 3 to peg 
point 3; find the cor- 4, and so on, until 
responding point 4 on lines are laid between 
line D c, and there all the corresponding 
insert a peg. From pegs. Lines. 78,1718 
the peg at point a, 33 34, 43 and 44 form 
on line 4B, measure the square i k m n. 
8 feet 3 inches, and Lay the diagonal lines 


dnsert a peg as at mkandin. On the 
point 5; alsoon line eA 


lala 


= : diagonal lines form 
® c find the corre- { a5 79 I If Is IS i7 721. 28 square a bc d, which 
sponding point 6, and Fig. 35. Scale 12 feet to the inch. is intended for a bed, 
there insert a peg. Sears 


the length of the side 
being 8 feet. Form square e fg h, the side being 14 feet. 
The space between the two squares is intended for a grass 
verge 3 feet wide; insert a peg at each point, and lay lines 
from peg to peg, and the figure is complete. 3B, beds; g, grass; 
w, walk.—M. O‘DonNELL, Gardener to EH. Leeming, Hsq., Spring 
Grove, Richmond. 


Again from the stake at point a measure 10 feet, and insert a 
peg as at point 7; on line pc find the corresponding point 8, 
and insert a peg. From stake a measure 12 feet, and insert a 
peg as at point 9; find the corresponding point 10 on line pg, 
andinsertapeg. On each side of the diameter lines EF anda H 
Measure 2 feet, and insert pegs as at points 11 12, 13 14, 37 38, 


POTATOES—PLANTING? EARLY, DETECTING QUALITY, AND OTHER HINTS. 


Tae ‘noble tuber!’ I regret to say that I hear a bad ac- withstanding thick coverings of straw, I have lost a bushel and 
count of the state of Potatoes, by reason of the severe frosts. | a half. As soon as the frost broke up I commenced planting 
The poor people here have lost both their ‘‘ eating ” and seed | on J anuary 14th, and haye just finished all my garden plots. 
Potatoes. This winter has been the severest since 1860. Not-| The ground worked well; with the aid of a little straw placed 


84 


over the ground, I look for no more disaster from frost. A 
little surface frost excludes the air, and helps, with the straw, to 
preserve the ‘‘ noble tuber.’? Last year severe frosts succeeded 
the planting, but no mischief was done to the planted tubers. 
Some of the plots were not even covered with straw, but were 
fully exposed to the east, south-west, and north winds, in this 
very exposed vale. 

It is said that if frosted Potatoes are placed in water for a 
few days, and then dried before the fire, they will ‘“‘do” for 
seed. I have five tubers in water, and intend to plant them 
for experiment. I should hardly think they would succeed. 
A frosted Potato is decomposed. 

I believe the Potato disease, in a great measure, partakes of 
the nature of dropsy, as it usually takes place after heavy rains 
succeeding long drought. Perhaps what we call fungus is the 
mere disruption of the cells. I merely throw out the suggestion, 
and confess that I am quite in the dark. I have had no diseased 
Potatoes this year, and only one diseased tuber last year. Iam 
satisfied that ‘‘ early ripeners and late keepers” are the only 
sorts to plant. 

I am much amused by reading what is said of some Potatoes, 
which I was obliged to cast out. It is not my provizce to write 
them down. The sorts 1 keep are well known, and need not 
be named. The following observations may interest, and, 
perhaps, profit the reader. 

If you buy a sack of Potatoes, buy big and moderate-sized 
ones together, and you will obtain 20 lbs. more weight than by 
buying all large ones. Moreover, large Potatoes, even if the 
sort is good, are not so eatable as moderate-sized Potatoes. If 
you want to test uncooked Potatoes, take, say, five sorts or 
more of the same size, and whichever weighs heaviest will be 
the best Potato when cooked. A light Potato never yet was 
good. When Potatoes are cooked, if you do not wish to taste 
them, you can tell their quality by breaking them in half, and 
applying a magnifying glass. That will be the best Potato, the 
grains of which look whitest, like pounded white sugar. If 
the grains look dark or muddy, the Potato will not be good. A 
cat or dog will not eat a Potato unless it is good; their fine 
noses detect what our unassisted eyes cannot see or noses 
smell. My latest, Yorkshire Hero and Taylor’s Yorkshire 
Hybrid, are good, and will last well till June. Last year my 
servants preferred them to the Royal Ashleaf, dug June 4th. 
Plant your Potatoes before they are much grown out. Breaking 
off the sprouts weakens the plant.—W. F. Rapciyrre. 


SETTING AND CROSSING GRAPES. 


As Mr. Pearson remarks at page 509 of last volume, we have 
all seen recommended for the aboyenamed practices, by one a 
hot dry atmosphere, by another a damp atmosphere, and by a 
third a high dry temperature with plenty of air. From my 
experience I am decidedly of opinion that either extreme is not 
to be commended. Like Mr. Pearson I have been crossing 
Grapes for the last twelve years, and many other things for the 
last twenty, and have taken much interest in the pursuit. I 
have always found a dry air not productive of pollen. 

With the view of hearing the opinion of others, about two 
years ago I put the question to the gardening public whether a 
dry or a damp atmosphere was considered the more favourable 
for setting. I consider no decided treatment can be laid down 
ag ensuring the desired result, especially in a mixed collection 
including such known bad setters as those named by Mr. Pear- 
son—Black Morocco and Canon Hall Muscat. These two sorts 
I have grown successfully under the following treatment. 

The Black Morocco I found always had on the top of every 
pistil 2 dewdrop. I considered this prevented fertilisation by 
not allowing the pollen a free entrance at the top of the pistil. 
I applied the pollen of free setters, but finding this ineffectual, 
twice a-day, as the bunches came into bloom, I carefully drew 
them through my hand till I was certain the dewdrops were 
all cleared off. Mr. Pearson’s mode of proceeding had the same 
effect, for he brushed the bunches with a large camel’s-hair 
brush covered with pollen; in doing this he would clear away 
the dewdrops, and a portion of pollen would at the same time 
be applied. 

As to the Canon Hall Muscat I had to grow a number of it, 
our family haying a great liking for large-berried Grapes, and I 
tried several experiments with this variety. Icarefully applied 
pollen of free-setting sorts, but that I found not effectual. 
Anyone who has grown the Canon Hall must haye noticed that 
there is double the number of flower-pips on every bunch 
a8 compared with other Grapes. This I thought was approach- 


a 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 2, 1871. 


ing to a monstrosity, therefore I waited till the bunch was 
about to bloom, and then severely thinned the flower-pips, 
taking away three out of every four. Under this treatment, 
and by tapping gently the rods when in bloom, I rarely failed 
to have satisfactory-set bunches. 

As regards crossing, I agree with Mr. Pearson that it is not 
so easy to effectually cross Grapes as many would imagine. I 
agree with Mr. Pearson also that colour, according to my expe- 
rience, is accidental, as I have proved in the three last varieties 
I operated on. These were all dark varieties. . The first I shall 
notice is my own Champion Hamburgh Muscat, sent out by 
Messrs. Veitch. This I crossed with Snow’s Black Muscat 
Hamburgh [Black Muscat of Alexandria]; the produce was & 
Golden Champion Hamburgh with a true Muscat flayour, and 
it showed colour before the common Hamburgh in the same 
house. The second was Lady Downe’s crossed with Snow’e 
Black Muscat Hamburgh; the produce was a deep golden- 
coloured Grape of the same habit of bunch as the male parent, 
the bunch long and well-shouldered, the berries with a distinct 
Muscat flavour. The third was Snow’s Black Muscat Hamburgk 
crossed with Muscat of Alexandria; the produce was a deep 
golden-colouted Grape, with the bunch the same in habit as 
Snow’s Black Muscat Hamburgh; the bunch long, well shoul- 
dered, setting freely, and perfuming the house, and the flavour 
2 deciged perfumed Muscat. The golden colour comes much 
sooner than in a Muscat of Alexandria. —W. Menyiue, St. 
Lawrence Vineries, Jersey. 

P.S.—There have been erected here nearly 1000 feet of new 
glass, of which at some future time I may give details.—W. M. 


FRUIT TREES FOR SMALL GARDENS. 


“C, C. E.” asks me, page 432, vol. xix., to say ‘‘ whether my 
conclusions have been arrived at by actual experiment with s 
strict cash account, or whether they are merely an inference, 
0.27? 

The conclusions are based on actual experiment, but not 
with a strict cash account, for we in private gardens donot keep 
(to our disgrace be it said), cash accounts in the way that 
““C,C.E.” means. We grow what our employers regard as 
luxuries more than as paying crops, and I fear ‘‘ C. C. E.,” and 
also our Editors, see fruit as do our employers; the finest and 
best is all they care for, having no eye themselves to the cash 
account. There is a great difference between growing for 
private use and for sale. For instance: A has a vinery erected 
for growing Grapes for his own use, and B has one constructed 
to grow them for sale. A spends fully twice as much on the 
house as B, and he plants kinds that he has a peculiar liking 
for—kinds that will not give half the produee of those B plants. 
A wants variety, and the gratification of his palate; but B 
wants cash, and he must plant certain heavy eroppers, and of 
a quality most in demand. B’s house pays, with a large 
margin of profit, but A’s does not pay with a strict cash ac- 
count. It is just the same with bush-iruit trees. A will have 
the kinds calculated to afford the finest desserts, he thinks 
nothing of a kind that is a certain cropper, and in quality 
little inferior to that which he must have at any cost; he 
“ goes in” for the very best of everything, likes a fruit because 
it has a peculiar flavour, and forgets, perhaps, that it is @ 
notoriously shy bearer, but he likes it all the better for that 
reason, and wisely keeps from asking a strict cash account of 
his gardener. His gardener (B we will call him), commences 
growing for sale. He does not cater for those who may be 
purchasers of fruits for the sake of their peculiar flayour, but he 
plants the good and useful kinds, which always find a ready 
sale, and are large, certain croppers. He finds, for instance, 
that Lord Suffield, Cox’s Pomona, Cox’s Orange Pippin, and 
Dumelow’s Seedling Apples will at three years old give a peck 
of fine and equally good fruit for his purpose, while the fancy 
sorts do nct at that age give a tenth of the quantity. Ineed 
not tell “‘C. C. E.,” that an acre planted to suit A will not 
pay, for that is, I believe, his case; ‘‘a source of increasing: 
interest and pleasure’ it may be, but he must not look for the 
cent. per cent. return of B at seven years, which I know from 
actual experience cannot fail to result if the trees bear as well 
by the hundred as by the dozen, and by the thousand as by 
the hundred. se 

I am glad of ‘C0. C. E.’s” communication, for it gives me 
an opportunity of saying something of kinds I would grow for 
market. ‘ What! Not all named in your list?” Why, no? 
These varieties will suit all but the very fastidious, being most 
excellent in all respects ; but for sale I should grow of kitchen 


February 2, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


85 


Apples: Lord Suffield, Cox’s Pomona, Dumelow’s Seedling, 
Gooseberry Apple. Dessert Apples: Harly Harvest (a few), 
Cox’s Orange Pippin, and Pitmaston Nonpareil. Plums: 
Oullins Golden, Harly Rivers, Orleans, Prince Englebert, July 
Green Gage, Belgian Purple, and Victoria. Pears: Bon 
Chrétien, Beurré Bachelier, Beurré Diel, Beurré Hardy, Ber- 
gamotte Esperen, Beurré d’Amanlis, Comte de Lamy, Alex- 
andre Lambré, and Marie Louise. Will ‘“C. C. H.,” or any 
one, state what results they have found from the above sorts, 
by actual experiment by the acre? 

Again, “C. C. H.” says I have a large margin in the esti- 
mated cost of trees—Apples at 1s. 6d. each. He quotes prices 
which were I to buy trees at, I should not plant them at 6 feet 
apart, but in lines 3 feet from each other, with a distance of 
iS inches in the row, and I would keep the trees there until 
they were fully 4 feet high, well furnished, and fit for planting at 
6 feet apart, which I do not consider they are until they have had 
three years’ growth and training beyond the maiden growth. 
‘The trees would cost, if they were selected at any nursery, what 
i have named, for I would, of course, take only the best, such as 
fT should not have to keep unprofitably, but that would go to 
work at once. I am no believer in cheap first costs, and should 
go in for trees for an acre as for a select border—varieties 
excepted. Thus ‘C. C. H.’s”’ trees at seven years would only 
be doing what mine would at four.—G. ABBEY. 


ANONYMOUS ORITICISM—MESSRS. CARTER’S 
PRIZES. 


Ty an able article on criticism which has arrested my atten- 
tion, Mr. Paul lays bare an unjust practice, and makes outa 
good case for publicity of critics’ names. It will have its effect. 
A few years ago the country was flooded by lucifer match- 
boxes, on which were engraved some well-remembered figures. 
Zook at them on one side, and we see the very acme of 
pleasure and satisfaction beaming from the countenances of 
the faces there depicted; stand on the other side of the box, 
and we see the same figures expressing the very incarnation of 
ugliness. Criticism has two sides. Myr. Paul stands on one 
side—publicity, and sees the pleasant aspect. I stand on the 
other side, and see the same figure ugly—inexpressibly ugly. 
Ti I go to Mr. Paui’s side I shall see as he sees. If Mr. Paul 
will come to my side he will see as I see. I have gone over to 
Mr. Panl’s side, have seen with him, and believe. Let him 
come over to my side, and believe with me, if he can. If Mr. 
Paul can see as I gee, and feel as I feel, he will, I think, say 
as I say, that if anonymous criticism is ugly, the other side of 
the question is ugly too. 

Mr. Panul has given an example. I wiil give one. I have in 
times past sometimes felt it a duty or a pleasure to contribute 
an article to this and other papers, and to which I have attached 
my name and address. On almost every occasion I have had 
private letters bothering me for something or other. Now, I 
do not call this ugly, but I do not call it nice, as it raises the 
question courtesy versus postage stamps. Through unavoidable 
circumstances I am often scarce of the latter, and I do not 
grumble much ; but if conserving the former adds to the exist- 
ing scarcity of the latter, I have a right to grumble and stop 
the demand on my resources. This, as before said, I do not 
call ugly, but I do the following. If I have happened to have 
written recommendatory of an article, and have given the 
Teason of my success, I have been insulted by applications for 
a few dozens or a few hundreds, intimating that as the pro- 
duction cost me nothing, I might make a ‘‘good thing of 
it,” and my master be no worse. I call that the ugly side of 
publicity, and I determined to avoid the temptation by taking 
away the means which called it into action. Seldom since, 
except by special request, have I appended my name, whether 
the article has contained praise or blame, or whether in this 
zespect it has been neutral. Herein I may have erred, not 
that anything I could say would do either much good or much 
harm, but thatit is but just and honest in principle that critics 
in censuring men or things should append their names. This 
is manifestly so fair that it needs no attempt at proving, and 
ZT daresay it is all that Mr. Paul contends for. But while I 
lay down this rule for my own guide, and act up to it, I shall 
also act pretty closely to another, and not append my name to 
anything personally commendatory of one man aboye another. 
Por instance, were I to bring to public notice some splendid Vines 
which I can see every day, and of whose parentage Mr. Paul 
might be proud, and to append my name, that eminent nursery- 
man might possibly not complain of my doing so, but Mr. 


Pearson might perhaps question my motives, because the sama 
house contains some from him equally good, but yet unnoticed. 
Some men’s names are of greater strength than their judgment. 
At present the general rule stands thus—to give one’s nama 
when we praise, and to withhold it when we blame. I am 
aware there are many exceptions, but it seems to be the rule, 
and in my humble opinion it would be as well for all parties if 
it were simply reversed. 

Having expressed my thoughts, I will leave the subject to 
clearer heads and abler pens than mine, and venture a word 
of comment on the schedule of prizes offered through the 
Royal Horticultural Society by Messrs. Carter & Co., seedsmen, 
Holborn, very year something fresh is brought forward, 
startling in character and price. It is but natural that the 
growth and maturity of these new-born subjects ushered -into 
the world with everything that can make them attractive are 
jealously watched by a criticising and discriminating public. It 
is right that it should beso, but woe be to the proprietor if they 
found a character for any of their protégés on the results 
achieved in an abnormal season, and which are not upheld 
under other aspects and other circumstances. It is right that 
new subjects should be assailed, and have their bad points 
mercilessly brought forward—if a thing cannot stand the fire of 
public criticism it will not fulfil the demands of public utility. 
Thave been their assailant, and probably shallbe again. But if 
it is right that faults should be exposed, it is equally right that 
virtues should be recognised. That many subjects possess 
virtue there cannot be a doubt, or the experience of the best 
cultivators and the judgment of the best authorities go for 
little or nought. Who that has seen the Alpha, Wonder, and 
Hundredfold Peas grown under favourable circumstances can 
fail to recognise in them points of merit of sterling quality? 
while Potatoes, and even salads and Parsley, have left their 
mark on the horticultural world. If Messrs. Carter reap the, 
reward of their enterprise it is only what they are entitled to, 
and if the world is benefited who should begrudge it? Atany - 
rate, it is clear they have confidence in the strength of their 
introductions, or they would not have deliberately adopted such 
effectual means of exposing their weakness as to offer nearly 
£50 for the bringing together of their productions and sub- 
mitting them to the examination of the most competent judges. 
It is to be hoped the liberal offer will have a liberal response, 
and those who offer and those who contribute will alike reap a 
reward from their venture, and general horticulture be col- 
laterally adyanced.—W. B. H. 


PROGNOSTICATION OF THE PRESENT WINTER. 


In last November’s number of ‘‘ Symons’s Monthly Meteoro- 
logical Magazine,” Mr. G. D. Brumham, Cirencester, observed 
that according to a law which for the last hundred years ‘‘ has 
always proved correct, the coming winter must be remarkably 
severe—that is, the mean temperature must be very consider- 
ably below the average.” The law Mr. Brumham stated in the 
December number of that Magazine is this :— 

“When the rainfall of the first seven months of the year is below 
10 inches (near London, or at Lyndon in Rutland), or there have been 
in the first eight months of the year three or more months in each of 
which the rainfall has been below an inch, the succeeding winter is 
always remarkably severe, if the Greenwich mean temperature of 
August to Octoberinclusive has been not more than 56°.1 in the former 
case, or in the latter more than 53°.4.” 

How the prognostication has been and is being fulfilled we 
all know, and we have had this note sent us on the subject :— 

‘‘T am bound to confess that I have not much faith in 
weather prophecies in general, so many have been pui forth 
without much foundation to rest upon, have flourished for a 
time, but soon come to an untimely end, but this, certainly, 
seems more promising than anything we have seen for a long 
time, and up to the present period has been remarkably ful- 
filled, and also has the merit of haying been issued before the 
commencement of the winter, and not in ambiguous language, 
after the manner of the old-fashioned almanacks by which 
people might be rendered wise after the event. 

“This prophecy, like all others, must stand the test of time, 
and if found sound will be a valuable acquisition to our meteor- 
ological knowledge, and will reflect credit on Mr. Bromham, 
the discoverer. Whether it continue successful in future years 
or not I regard it as a step in the right direction, and a line of 
investigation which should be followed. No doubt the varia- 
tions of the weather, which appear so strange and unaccountable 
to us, are not really so, but proceed according to certain fixed 


86 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


laws, and if we only had a key to them it would be possible to 
predict the character of the season beforehand with the regu- 
larity of a clock; but at present we are far from that happy 
state of affairs, and are waiting for some meteorological Newton 
to appear and setile a few of the knotty points for us. Does 
the moon influence the weather? The French savants, after 
investigating the matter for a long time, came to the conclusion 
that she did not affect the weather at all. Perhaps it would 
have been better if they had reported that they could not find 
out how she affected the weather. The American captains 
who fetch guano from the South Seas say that the moon does 
affect the weather, and that there is more rain in certain 
phases of the moon than in others. Is it not more reasonable 
to suppose that she does, and that the changes in our atmo- 
sphere are caused by the relative position of the sun, moon, 
and other planets? Ithink so. It is clear that the tides are 
affected by the phases of the moon; why not the weather ? 
“But to return to the prophecy. If the data are sound, no 
doubt there are reasons which may be shown for their existence. 
Dryness and low temperature in the early months of the year 
seem to be the desiderata for cold. Perhaps under these con- 
ditions the ice and snow may be less melted in the Arctic 
regions than at other times. It is certain that in 1868, when 
there was an unusually warm spring and summer, accompanied 
with more rain than in 1870, and when the temperature in 
Iceland in June was as high as it usually isin August, and when 
ship captains reported that the ice belt round the Pole was 
driven back further almost than in the memory of man, the 
warm summer was followed by a very mild winter, and the 
north-east wind seemed shorn of its usual rigours. Were the 
previous heat and rain the cause of it? Mr. Brumham, per- 
haps, would say, Yes; I would rather say, Wait and see if the 
conclusions arrived at in the table are borne out in future 
» years, and then the investigation of the cause will be likely to 
add still further to our limited knowledge of the laws of 
meteorology.—AmarteEvur, Cirencester.” 


SOME PREDATORY INSECTS OF OUR 
GARDENS.—No. 3. 


An entomological friend of mine, whose spite towards gar- 
deners generally is probably to be attributed to the circumstance 
that in the course of his researches he has come at times into 
collision with various species of that genus, takes upon him 
to assert that the majority, large as are their opportunities for 
observation, have done little towards dcreasing our stock of 
facts in natural history. I think, however, that if we look 
back on the records of the past we shall admit that in matter 
and in style, what horticulturists do now communicate to our 
journals from time to time, throws anite into the shade the 
meagre descriptions which were once thought of value. Still 
there is scope for improvement, especially amongst working 
gardeners, and we may hope that, through the impetus given 
to education by its being regarded as of national importance, 
natural science and its concomitants will be so taught as not to 
‘isgust, but to stimulate the youthful mind, and prepare it for 
making discoveries on its own account when the after-life gives 
Opportunities. One thing, certainly, caused some difficulty in 
other days—there were few journals through which facts in 
natural history could be brought before the public. Some 
communications came out, however, in the ‘‘ Gentleman’s Ma- 
gazine,” and strange enough they were, for ‘‘Sylvanus Urban” 
was decidedly non-scientific. I quote two amusing specimens 
of the sort of thing that went down with the reader of a hundred 
years eince. A certain ‘J. H.,” writing an alarmist’s letter 
from Cambridge in 1763, says of insects, that ‘‘the embryos of 
these rapacious animals are now quickening by the rays of the 
vernal sun. The caterpillars that destroy the trees and hedges 
glue their nests to the branches. The web is woven with a 
close texture, and covered with a viscous liquor. In hot weather 
an effluvium exhales from caterpillars, which is noxious both 
to man and cattle, and sometimes produces contagious diseases.” 
-This is of a general cast; of more particular observations, if 
such they can be termed, we have such as that written down 
_by “D. J.” in 1766. His gardener in digging discovers a 
mysterious roll. This is opened, master and man both agape 
with astonishment—behold! a mass of desiccated matter re- 
sembling chewed grass, compacted together, 7 inches long, 
1 broad, terminating in a blunt end, tenanted by what he calls 
a single egg, about which the substance was looser. The oddest 
part of the letter states that a hunt was instituted for the insect 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ February 2, 1871. 


which had made it, and the sagacious discoverer could not 

undérstand why, after its trouble, it had not waited to see the 

ree This was probably a nest of some species of solitary 
ee. 

It is possible, however, some may think that in horticulture 
ignorance regarding the numerous insect pests which mock our 
labours has some advantages. We reduce the numbers of the 
enemies we see and can get hold of, but how many are there 
which work us trouble and yet evade us! Then occasionally 
there suddenly appears some new blight, and the reflective 
visage of the gardener, full of insect lore, lengthens as his 
imagination pictures the divers annoyances it may inflict, which 
he cannot totally prevent. Increasing knowledge we must in- 
crease sorrow, is a reflection, however, that may be pushed too 
far; in natural history our great danger is a sort of half know- 
ledge, which enables us to talk but gives us little insight. 
Thus, one who thought himself thoroughly acquainted with 
caterpillars and their destructive doings, had yet no idea that 
any were to be found waiting quietly through the winter to 
recommence their jaw work in spring. It is true of various 
species in gardens as well as in fields and woods, and an un- 
pleasant lurker of this sort is that producing the Gothic Moth 
(Mcenia typica). The parent Moths are on the wing often for 
a couple of months in the summer, coming eagerly enough to 
an ensnaring sweet compound spread on tree trunks eyen about 
London, and in spite of its commonness it deserves to be called 
handsome. It has been observed by Mr. Newman that the 
juvenile caterpillars proceed with a certain degree of military 
regularity, marching in little companies, and confining them- 
selves to the upper surface of the leaves. My own observations 
confirm this, though, unlike Mr. Newman’s specimens, those 
occurring at the west end of London do not always begin by a 
short sojourn on trees ere they descend to the lower growth in 
gardens. I have found eggs and young caterpillars on low 
plants, nor do they hesitate to devour the produce of the flower 
as well as that of the kitchen garden. These caterpillars seem. 
to have at all times a partiality for dead leaves—they often 
hybernate ou or amongst them; ard, when feeding some in 
captivity during the spring, I noticed that they ate chiefly at 
night, hiding under a dried leaf during the day. Hence the 
species escapes notice in gardens at the very time it is most 
destructive, and slugs and snails are anathematised occasion- 
ally, while the culprit is our Gothic foe, now getting plump, 
and who would perhaps wink his eyes, if he had any eyelids, to 
express his satisfaction at the good fare he obiains on the fresh. 
juicy leaves. However, as, by-and-by entering the earth, he 
becomes a chrysalis, he may chance to get chopped in two by 
the spade or hoe. From the small proportion of these cater- 
pillars to be found by careful searching in some springs as com- 
pared with the number about the preceding autumn, I faney 
that they are kept in check by some parasite, or killed by the 
sharp weather of certain seasons. 

Who has not some early associations connected with the 
Woolly Bear? though this name is applied loosely to various 


Chelonia Caja. 
I think, however, that it could be demon- 
strated to be the peculiar property of the common Tiger Moth 
(Chelonia Caja), the only probable rival being the caterpillar of 


hairy caterpillars. 


the White Ermine. An active fellow is the Tiger Caterpillar, 
though its long silky hairs, as seen at the final change of skin, 
have nothing resembling wool about them except their light 
colour on the back. The head and legs are of a deep black. 
Nor is if remarkable for being bearish in disposition, though 
it may be thought a feeble miniature of that animal in appear- 
ance. An observer, however, reports last year an instance 
wherein a Tiger Caterpillar proved a cannibal, devouring a 
chrysalis of a brother; but then there was this excuse, that 
the individual had been kept on short commons, and, to all 


February 2, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


87 


®aterpillars, abstinence in warm weather is very trying. It 
has been questioned whether birds attack hairy caterpillars. 
No doubt some species do, though others are repelled by this 
means of defence, especially when the individual attacked has 
the power, like the present species, of presenting, by rolling 
into a ring, a surface of hairs in every direction. Were it not 
for this, as the Tiger Caterpillar feeds conspicuously, its num- 
bers would soon be diminished considerably. As it is, we 
notice it to be one of the very commonest of caterpillars both 
in gardens and in uncultivated places, its favourite food-plants 
in the latter spots being Docks and dead Nettles. Most partial 
to the kitchen garden, the caterpillar of the Tiger Moth at 
times turns up on the flower beds, and may even be detected 
feasting on fruit trees, or disfiguring a choice Pelargonium. 
One circumstance tending to account for its abundance is the 
number of eggs deposited by the Moth (stated in some books 
at 800 or 900; in a case, where I counted what I believe was 
the whole batch of a female in confinement, the number was 
about 600), and these are laid in clusters through the sluggish- 
ness of the Moths; in fact, they seem rarely to take any exten- 
sive flight. The principal business of the young caterpillars 
during the autumn appears to be the changing of their skins; 
of these several follow in succession without much increase of 
size. Ceasing to eat as winter approaches, they retire usually 
to the roots of the herbage, or, in gardens, to some nook or 
cranny, there to remain until spring, at whose advent they at 
once set to work again, but, growing rather slowly, are seldom 
full fed until June. The cocoon is plentifully besprinkled with 
the hairs of the caterpillar, which have an unpleasant irritating 
effect upon the human skin, though this has been questioned, 
and the effect ascribed to some fluid of a pungent nature ejected 
by the caterpillar. Certain it is that the Moth when fresh 
from the chrysalis does possess the power of ejecting, from 
some apparatus behind the head, an acid liquid which causes 
smarting. The upper wings, which have given the species its 
tigrine name, are variable in their marking, as also sometimes 
the hind wings, usually adorned with blue-black spots on a red 
ground. An entomologist reared some of the most remarkable 
types of the darker varieties by feeding the caterpillars on 
Coltsfoot and Butterbur. Nevertheless, itis the opinion of a 
moiety of the students of this branch of natural history, that 
these departures from the normal colouring are results of 
disease. 

Amongst the names of terror in Hastern Jands, none are more 
appalling to the husbandman than that of the Locust. Only 
three years ago we find that the ravages committed in Algeria 
by the species were something appalling, though millions of 
them were slaughtered. The term Locust is applied even in 
our country in a loose way to various destructive or conspicu- 
ous insects, as, for instance, singularly and inappropriately, to 
the caterpillar of the Death’s-head Hawk (Acherontia Atropos), 
not uncommon at times in the midland counties, an occasional 
visitant in others. But the question has been often asked with 
some interest, Does the oriental Locust ever make its way 
here, and is there any danger of its doing us serious injury ? 
Many specimens of the Orthopterous order had been sent from 
different places to the Hditor of the ‘‘ Entomologist,’ who 
stated that he had doubts whether the true Locust did occur 
in Britain. Mr. Walker’s researches, published in last year’s 
“ Entomologist,” tend to prove that there are two species, and 
one of these, the Migratory Locust of South Russia (Pachytylus 
migratorius), which also occurs in Switzerland, the South of 
France, and Spain, has occasionally made its way to our shores. 
There seems to be still some doubt whether this species com- 
mits ravages in Syria and Egypt. A number of these were 
noticed on the coasts of Aberdeenshire, and solitary specimens 
have been picked up elsewhere. At the discussion which took 
place at the meeting of the Entomological Society in March 
last it was asserted that examples of the true African Locust 
had been taken here, but the nomenclature being confused, the 
fact is still questionable. In our case I imagine we have little 
to fear from this species, which, in spite of the long migrations 
it makes, is peculiarly liable to be afiected by atmospheric 
influences.—J. R. 8. C. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


Accorpine to Natwre the large conservatory for Orchidacex 
in the Jarpin pes Puanres ar Pants has been destroyed by a 
Prussian shell. The glass-work was broken, and the plants, 
which are so delicate, were lost without any hope of recovery, 
The logses are very serious, as the collection had many yalu. | 


able specimens obtained from the occupation of Mexico, and 
from the exertions of the French Scientific Commission, which 
had been sent to America to explore the empire of the unfortu- 
nate Maximilian. M. Chevreuil, the Director of the Museum, 
has addressed to the Academy of Sciences the following pro- 
test :—‘' The garden of medicinal plants, founded in Paris by 
an edict of King Louis XIII., dated January 3, 1626, became 
a Museum of Natural History on the 23rd May, 1794. It was 
bombarded in the reign of William IJ., King of Prussia, Count 
Bismarck being Chancellor, by the Prussian army, on the night 
of the 8th-9th January 1871. Until then it had been respected 
by all parties, and by all national and foreign authorities. 
Paris, January 9, 1871.” The Academy has determined that 
the protest of M. Chevreuil shall be printed at the head of its 
reports, and the Committee of Professors of the Museum have 
decided that a marble monument, with an inscription of the 
protest, shall be placed in one of the galleries of the building, 
surrounded with projectiles thrown from the enemy’s batteries. 


Amonest the new arrangements made by the Rovyat. 
Horticunturan Society for the present season we haye to 
announce the following :—Mr. Eyles, Superintendent of the So- 
ciety’s garden at South Kensington, retires from that oflice, 
and is succeeded by Mr. Barron, who will for the future act ag 
the Society’s Garden Superintendent at South Kensington and 
Chiswick, thus combining the management of the two gardens 
inone. The position which Mr. Eyles will retain is that of 
Superintendent of Flower Shows, in conjunction with his pro~ 
fession as a landscape gardener. 


—— Messrs. Canter & Co., Seedsmen, Holborn, have offered 
the following Prizes ron VEGETABLES grown by bond fide 
gentlemen’s gardeners, or gentlemen amateurs, without forcing, 
in the open ground, to be awarded at the meetings of the Royak 
Horticultural Society during the present year—viz., Way 17th. 
—Prize £1 10s., for the best dish of Carter's First Crop 
Pea, 1 peck. Prize £1 10s., for the best dish of Early Peas, 
not First Crop, 1 peck. June Tih.—I1st prize £2 2s.; 2nd 
£1 1s., for the best three dishes of Peas (to include Alpha and, 
Invicta)—i.e., Early White, Early Round Blue, and Harly 
Wrinkled Peas. June 27th.—A silver cup or £10; 2nd prize 
£2, for the best collection of Vegetables, including Laxton’s 
Supreme, Carter’s Hundredfold, Laxton’s Quality, Dwarf Water- 
loo, and two other Varieties of Peas. July 5th.—Ilst prize 
£2 2s.; 2nd £1 1s., for the best six dishes of Peas, to include 
Laxton’s Supreme, Carter’s Hundredfold, and Laxton’s Quality. 
July 19th.—1st prize £2 2s.; 2nd £1 1s., for the best collection 
of Vegetables, to include three dishes of Peas (including Carter’s. 
Imperial Wonder and Laxton’s Supreme), Carter’s Improved 
Garnishing Parsley, and Carter’s Giant White Cos Lettuce. 
August 16th.—I1st prize £2 2s.; 2nd £1 1s., for the best collec- 
tion of Vegetables, to include Carter’s Champion Runner Beans 
and three dishes of Peas (including Carter’s Imperial Wonder 
and Carter’s Wonder of the World). September 6th.—I1st prize 
£2 2s.; 2nd £1 1s., for the best collection of Onions, to-include 
the New Giant Rocca of Naples, Giant White Tripoli, and 
Neapolitan Marzagole. September 20th.—1st prize £2 2s.; 2nd 
£1 1s., for the best collection of Vegetables, to include Carter’s 
Dwarf Crimson Celery, Carter’s Dwarf Mammoth Cauliflower,, 
New Giant Rocca Onion, Kohl Rabi, three dishes of Peas (to 
include Carter’s Imperial Wonder), and Carter’s Perfection of 
Beets. October 4th.—lst prize £2 2s.; 2nd £1 1s., for the best 
collection of American Potatoes, six varieties. November 1st. 
—Ilst prize £3 3s.; 2nd £2 2s.; 3rd £1 1s., for the best collec- 
tion of Potatoes, to include Carter’s Ashtop Fluke, Cambridge+ 
shire Kidney, Red-skinned Flourball, and Carter’s Main Crop: 
Prize £1 1s., for the best dish of Carter’s Main Crop Potato. 
December 6th.—1st prize £2 2s.; 2nd £1 1s., for the best 
collection of Vegetables, to include Carter’s Little Pixie Savoy, 
Scotch Kale, Brussels Sprouts, Carter’s Garnishing Kale, Pars- 
nips, Scorzonera, Salsafy, and Leek. 


THE LATE SEVERE WEATHER. 


Mr. AppERLEY (page 66) calls attention to the injuries inflicted by 
the late seyere weather, and, no doubt, facts will be reyealed which 
are difficult to understand, for while he records the temperature with 
him at 1° below zero, on December 24th, none of the thermometers 
here (and there are three or four of them) descended below 13°, while 
less than a mile from us a temperature of 5° was registered, and at 
Tunbridge it had been down to 1°. At some places near Maidstone, 1° 
or more below zero was registered, and near Malling it is said 4° 
below that point. Now, a difference of 16° or 17° at places so near to 
each other is difficult to understand, altitude not always accounting 


(v3) 
(v2) 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 2, 187i. 


for it; and the effects produced show as well as the instruments that 
there has been a great difference, for while Mr. Adderley describes 
his shrubs as all but killed—a fact confirmed by others near here, 
where the temperature has been as low as with him—onrs at Linton do 
not as yet exhibit any symptoms of having been injured. A few days 
2g0, on examining the bloom-buds of Laurustinus, I thought they were 
not sufficiently injured to prevent them expanding at the proper time; 
but it may be too early yet to make sure of that, for at the time I write, 
January 27th, there is as much appearance of severe weather as a 
mouth ago. 

It is singular that extreme cold should exhibit itself so capriciously 
—heat certainly never does, a difference of 2° or 3° is all that under 
ordinary circumstances occurs in the same exposure, &c., and is met 
with in places a few miles apart, while I believe differences of as much 
as 20° have been experienced during the past cold weather. Perhaps 
the almost entire absence of wind on the late cold nights had some in- 
‘luence, as a good breeze must mix one cold portion of the atmosphere 
with another that may not be so cold, and so produce a greater unifor- 
amity of temperature. The lowest reading of our thermometer at any 
time during the last twenty years was 6°, on March 10th, 1855, and 
10 » on January 5th, 1867, while the memorable Christmas day of 
1860 was only 15°, yet we suffered much that season, owing, however, 
to the unripened condition of vegetation when thé frost set in, but not 
So much as in 1867. This season, with the prospect of more winter 
before Us, it is too soon to say much, but so far, I believe, we have 
escaped with less damage than most of our neighbours, but when more 
certain of this I will probably revert to the subject. Meanwhile, it 
will be interesting to know where the most seyere* weather has been. 
a friend writing me from Cornwall says the thermometer there has 
been down to 14°, an unusual occurrence for that part of the country. 
in the midland counties, where we usually hear of the most severe 
frosts, it does not appear to have been so intense as nearer the east 
coast, neither does London appear to have been visited with such hard 
weather as many places in Kent. These and kindred matters are 
Siting subjects for inquiry, and when the time comes to reveal the 
damage done it is to be hoped the readings of the thermometer at each 
place reported upon will be given also. The fact of the ground being 
partly covered with snow was of much service to vegetables, the most 
damage to them being done after a partial thaw had set in about 
January 6th. The frosts that followed, though not so severe as before, 
certainly did more harm than those preceding that time.—J. RoBsoN. 


COMMISSION PAID BY TRADESMEN TO 
SERVANTS. 


“A TrapEsman” has written to us on this subject—a very im- 
portant one—but we do not see what benefit would result from a dis- 
cussion of the practice in our pages. Such discussions have already 
taken place, with little or no beneficial result, for though some gentle- 
men and tradesmen haye manfully opposed it, others have tacitly or 
openly given it their approval, and too many employers look upon 
allowances on bills as making up for the deficient remuneration they 
Sive to their servants. 

Not long ago a nurseryman told us that a gentleman in giving him 
ea order said to him, that as itwas near Christmas or bill-paying time, 
se must give a greater allowance to the gardener. ‘(A TRADESMAN” 
justly states, the only right plan would be for employers to give re- 
munerative wages, and oppose all such gratuities, and for tradesmen 
to join in resolving not to give them—but will they do so? It is quite 
a mistake to suppose that the gentleman gains in the long run, for if 
the tradesman pays so much in discount, he must contrive to get that 
extra somehow. All such allowances are very pressing in these days 
of close-cutting contracts. The whole system has a tendency to put a 
temptation in the way of all concerned to veer somewhat from the 
straight line of rectitude, and it is most desirable that we mortals 
should not have inducements to wrong-doing put in our way. 

As to a gardener making a demand asa right of 5 per cent. on the 
cost of houses erected, we hope he will think twice before he persists 
in the demand. A gardener of some years’ standing tells us he has 
had enough of self-respect to keep him from condescending to ask for 
2 penny from his employer's tradesmen. There are, however, gene- 
rally two sides to a tale. We have known cases where the intellect, the 
experience, and the extra time of servants had been fully employed by 
a tradesman, and without these that tradesmen could not haye done 
the work at all, and yet not a hearty ‘“‘thank you” was returned as 
an equivalent. In such cases, we think it is honest and fair that for 
such extra labour there shonld have been a tangible equivalent: 

The gardener we have referred to says, ‘‘ Ican bring to my mind’s eye 
a case of a great deal of work, building, &c., being done in a garden, 
and the gardener, feeling interested in the whole matter, did very much 
for the tradesman—what he would otherwise have been obliged to 
employ a clerk of the works to superintend, and did all this at his 
request. The gardener fairly thinking that he deserved something for 

+ his great extra labour, spoke, and we think rightly, to hie employer; 
but was at once told it was no business of his, it was entirely a matter 
tor the tradesman. Like many more of the most respectable servants, 
who would be glad to see the whole system of discounts and gratuities 
swept away, he was too proud to say a word to the wealthy tradesman 


who had freely used his time and abilities, and the only thing he ever | 


received was half a sovereign to give some beer to the garden men. 
No doubt such are exceptional cases. I dislike the whole system of 
gratuities, but at the same time I think that extra work with head or 
hands should be fairly paid for.” 

On the whole, until gentlemen unite to set their faces against the 
system, until they cease to demand their 5 per cent. discount when 
they pay their own bills, until they give suitable wages, independent of 
all such degrading gratuities, and until tradesmen cease to encourage 
the system, and even outbid each other to obtain a job, we can only 
regret so great an evil. 


WORK FOR THE WEEE. 


EITCHEN GARDEN. 

ArTEND tothe drainage of the garden, for at this season, when 
it is frequently requisite to fork and turn over ground pre- 
viously trenched, it is easy to perceive the great importance of 
efficient drainage. I allude, of course, to soils which require 
draining, because some do not. How the earth crumbles down 
and mellows, and how much sooner it is in a fit state for 
cropping, when the drainage has been properly attended to. If 
the soilis undrained, the labour is far greater to get it in any- 
thing like condition for the reception of crops, and even then 
the advance and produce of the crops committed to it are 
greatly inferior. A thoroughly efficient system of drainage is 
the basis of all successful cultivation. Continue to manure, 
trench, and fork over the ridges whenever the weather will per- 
mit. Fill up any vacancies in the autumn plantation.of Cab- 
bages ; also make fresh plantations of the autumn sowings, if 
necessary. Cauliflowers under hand-glasses and in frames 
must be fully exposed in mild weather, or they will button off 
in the spring. Sow seed on a south border to produce plants 
to succeed the autumn sowing. Sow Celery seed in boxes, and 
place them in a forcing house to produce plants for an early 
crop. Where the soil is not wet and stiff, Garlic and Shallots 
should now be planted, if not done in the autumn; plant in 
rows at 6 inches apart. Lettwces in frames should have all the 
air possible in mild weather; makes a sowing on asouth border 
to succeed the autumn sowing. Potatoes, where there are no 
frames or pits, plant on a south border for an early crop. Pots 
may now be placed over the roots of Rhubarb, and covered with 
dung or leaves. A small sowing of Spinach may be made 
between the rows of early Peas. Where young Turnips are re- 
quired early, a sowing should be made on a slight hotbed. 


FRUIT GARDEN. : 

Examine Fig trees covered up, and see if the mice have 
gnawed off the bark from the stems. Traps should be set in 
different parts of the garden to catch them. They will now 
more readily take the baits than they will when there is other 
food for them. Pruningand nailing Peaches, Nectarines, and 
Apricots, may be followed up with vigour and perseverance 
whenever the weather is favourable. Wall fruit trees of any 
kind that are becoming crowded with wood near the top of the 
wall should have some of the large branches headed back, and 
the shoots trained below. Do not crowd the centre of fan- 
trained trees with too much wood, that part will always fill up 
enough. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

There are few things in gardens we are more dissatisfied 
with than the usual mode of planting shrubberies; there is 
generally no attempt at arrangement, and where this is neg- 
lected at the time of planting, no after-thinning or removing, 
short of taking up the whole of the plants, will give them the 
effect they should produce. In planting shrubberies, those 
plants which are intended to remain permanently should 
be first planted, and at such a distance apart and from the 
walks, as not in any way to interfere with one or the other for, 
say, ten years. This will allow many of the plants to attain a 
large size, and to show their proper character. The inter- 
vening spaces may be filled up with whatever plants may be at 
hand, and as they encroach upon the permanent plants they 
should be removed. Shrubs will not then require pruning, 
which, with digging about their roots, is the worst practice that 
can be followed for the production of handsome plants. Take 
every opportunity to forward the ground operations in this de- 
partment. Now is an excellent time for the formation of beds 
of Bourbon, China, and Tea-scented Roses. These classes of 
Roses will flower throughout the summer and autumn months; 
they give little trouble after planting, and they deserve to be 
cultivated in preference to. many annuals which we frequently 
find in flower gardens. To haye them in perfection it is 
necessary to take the soil out of the beds to the depth of 
12 inches, fill up with rotten dung from an old hotbed or any 


ee 


February 2, 1871. ] 


other source, tread it firmly as the bed is filled up, place 
3 inches of soil on the dung, and plant in the usual manner. 
Prepare beds for Carnations and Pinks; strong turfy loam, 
with rotten cow dung or sheep’s dung, forms an excellent com- 
post. Have the Pansy beds in readiness ; choose a strong rich 
soil in a shady situation if the blooms are wanted in a state of 
perfection. Top-dress Auricnulas and Polyanthuses with light 
loam made rich by the addition of rotten cow dung. This isa 
good time to take off the offsets before top-dressing; plant 
from three to four in a 5-inch pot, and place them in the 
shady part of a frame. Sow seed in shallow pans, and place 
them in a cold frame. Place Dahlia tubers in a little heat to 
start shoots for cuttings. 
GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. _ 

Attend to former directions as to the temperature and ven- 
tilation of the conservatory, guarding against extremes during 
the present piercing weather, and taking care, by moistening 
the heating apparatus twice or thrice a-day, and some of the 
vacant places about the house, to make up for the loss of 
moisture which will now be deposited on the glass. Flowers 
will not keep in dry air, therefore you must pay some attention 
to the hygrometric state of the atmosphere. Remove the 
plants to the house as fast as they come into bloom, altering 
the arrangement frequently so as to impart a fresh appearance 
to the display. Return all plants to the stove or greenhouse as 
they go out of bloom, and such plants as Euphorbia jacquinie- 
flora, Poinsettias, and others, which have done blooming, may 
be set aside and kept comparatively dry foratime. It may, 
perhaps, be necessary to top-dress or renew the soil around 
some of the borders; if such be the case, let it be performed 
before the end of the month, and give the plants a good soak- 
ing of clear weak manure water at the same time. In the 
greenhouse, while the present severe weather continues, but 
little can be done with the specimen plants, except that they 
may be trained and washed ; indeed, in smoky or dusty places 
the washing of large plants by laying them on their sides 
and giving them a regular deluging from a good syringe is a 
matter of considerable importance, and tends much to their 
healthy and yigorous growth. Proceed with the potting of 
young) plants and small specimens of all kinds, using the goil 
tolerably rough, with plenty of sand and drainage, and keep 
them comparatively close until they make fresh roots. This 
is a good time to start a collection of Kalosanthes, potting 
them in a compost consisting of two parts sandy turfy loam, 
one part turfy peat, and one part of half-decomposed leaf 
mould, with plenty of coarse gritty sand, and a liberal ad- 
mixture of potsherds broken small. Give them a liberal shift, 
and Keep them in a temperature of from 40° to 50°, and as soon 
as they make fresh roots stop each shoot, and train the plants 
into form. Ifthe weather is favourable endeavour to get all 
the plants which require it shifted by the end of the month, 
taking care to moisten the old ball properly before they are 
shifted, and also to guard against over-watering afterwards. 
Attend to the training of Tropeolums and other climbing 
plants, and shift the former into their blooming-pots, if not 
done already. Plants of Polygala or Boronia which are getting 
too forward must be placed at the cool end of the house, and 
others which are late must be generally excited—that is, if they 
_ are required to bloom early. 


P COLD PITS AND FRAMES. 

Plants in these must be thoroughly protected, and if any of 
them get frozen let them be thoroughly thawed before ex- 
posing them again to light. Give abundance of air at all fa- 
vourable times, and endeavour to keep the air as dry as-possible. 
Look to Liliums now breaking through the ground, and take 
care that they are not injured by stagnant moisture about the 
young shoots.—W. Kant. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

We have had another week of frost and snow, in which but 
little could be done out of doors but wheeling and turning soil, 
and digging when the snow had left us fora time. In the way 
of protection, young Cauliflowers under hand-lights have only 
seen the light for a short time when there was the appearance 
of a little sun. On the whole such vegetables have stood well. 
Many other things have been treated the same way, and trouble 
has been saved in uncovering, and the plants do better than 
when exposed to sudden changes as respects cold and excite- 
ment to growth. Many vegetables, as old quarters of Cabbages, 
haye suffered much, and would have suffered more but for 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


89 


the slight falls of snow that gave them some protection. It 
will be wise policy to sow Cabbages, Lettuces, &c., in a little 
heat, to provide for what may yet take place, as a rising baro- 
meter and a keen north wind would seem to imply that the 
frosty weather is not yet over. 

We have lots of Potatoes grown a few inches in pots, and we 
would have been glad to have turned them out into beds, &c., 
but we had not a single day in which it was warm enough to do 
80 with safety. It is remarkable how soon a sudden chill will 
affect plants fora long period. This is a simple matter that 
many people cannot be brought to see. In fresh potting, plent- 
ing, &c., plants that have received anything like nursing treat- 
ment should be removed from it as short a time as possible, 
and if changes must be given as respects temperature they 
must be gradual. As a general rule, when plants are removed 
to a shed to be potted, the shed some degrees above freezing, 
say from 40° to 45°, they should be taken back again as soor 
as possible. How often does it happen that scores are thus 
treated before being taken back again to the houses, when it 
would be more workmanlike in every way to take only a few 
out, replace them, and then bring back more. It may seem 
stretching the point too far, but we honestly believe that allow- 
ing plants to stand exposed for two, three, or four hours in a 
place 20° or 30° colder than that whence they came, instead of 
for the shortest possible time, gave the plants a severe check, 
and necessitated many a puff of tobacco that otherwise might 
have been saved. Not long ago a gentleman told us he could 
have bought all the flowers he had grown for the amount the 
frequent smokings cost him. We have frequently known plants 
standing in a temperature of from 55° to 60° taken into a shed 
at 40° the first thing after breakfast, and after repotting left 
standing there until far in the afternoon. Why, the very 
potting would give a check if the soil was at all colder than the 
temperature of the house—that would be check the second ; 
and the diminished temperature of the shed for so long a time 
would be check the third; and if coolish water instead of water 
at from 60° to 70° was used, that would be a fourth check; and 
yet people are amazed when the once-fine leaves get covered 
with insects, and washings and smokings must be resorted to 
to keep the plants alive. Plants are just as sensitive to ex- 
tremes of temperature as we are, and even much more s0- 
We would not like to expose the growing shoots of even a Po- 
tato in a frosty day, and in such maiters a little delay is often, 
after all, time and future well-being secured. 

A supply of Rhubarb, Asparagus, and Sea-kale is a great 
help now, when, for the present at least, we cannot say much 
as to the gathering of Broccoli out of doors. As lately stated, 
all the three may be grown anywhere in the dark, provided a. 
little mild heat can be obtained. The Asparagus must be 
greened by exposure to light afterwards; but Rhubarb, if not 
allowed to grow more than 8 or 10 inches for the large kinds, 
and shorter for the smaller kinds, does well without any light, 
and cooks not only very tender, but crisp and firm enough for 
anything. When drawn up long it becomes watery, and at 
times a little stringy. Those who have Swedish Turnips may 
get blanched or green tops by placing the tubers in a little heat. 
These make a delicious vegetable in winter. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Planting, if to be done, is quite out of the question. Hyer 
though trees could be taken up and laid.out, and thus covered, 
there has not been a day of late but the exposed roots would 
have been frozen, and that is a thing that never takes place in 
nature as respects the bulk of our fruit trees. If the frost docs: 
reach the roots it reaches them very gradually, and there is 
darkness and the covering over them, instead of the direct 
exposure. 

Pruning Fruit Trees.—We did a little on the most favourable 
days, and must hurry on ag soon ag the weather is at all fitting, 
as other out-door work for which the weather was very suitable 
prevented our doing more in this direction. Pruning is work 
that can be done at any time, when at all fair overhead, and 
felling trees, and grubbing up, are excellent work for cold, 
frosty weather in winter. Would there were more of such work 
to be done in this district. It is sad, indeed, to see so many 
men anxious to get employment, and unable to find it, in this 
severe-weather. We fear that many of our labourers have 
suffered as much from scarcity of food, of fuel, and of clothing, 
asthe beleaguered Parisians. What can we expect, when the 
weekly wages can do little more than secure very moderate 
comforts, if these wages altogether, or nearly so, cease for six 
or eight weeks at astretch? It is all very well to speak of im- 
providence when all is prosperous, and to show that by care- 


90 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


falness and prudence there would have been loaves in the 
cupboard instead of empty shelves ; but unfortunately referring 
to the past will not bring the bread, to say nothing of the beef, 
for the present. The greatest kindness to such people would be 
to give employment, and, in some cases, a little advance to the 
most distressed. In many places a good deal could be done at 
such jobs as those referred to above, with great benefit to the 
employed, and often to the advantage, or, at least, the no great 
loss of the employer. What is thus spent in labour will in its 
xesults be a very different affair from that given in mere 
charity, either personally or through clubs and societies. 

Strawberries in Pots.—On some of the coldest nights, besides 
old sashes, we threw a little litter over the pots. The frost, 
however, has never injured us to the extent that mice and rats 
lave done. We have already lost some scores of pots from the 
buds of the plants being eaten out, and that independently of 
rings of tar round the beds, trapping, and even shutting cats 
up where the plants were. Our losses this year, however, are 
small in comparison of what we have suffered in some seasons. 
Forward pots will be all the better of having the blooms dusted, 
using fine feathers, a camel’s-hair pencil, or even a dry hand 
gently. As lately alluded to, plants coming on gradually, and 
not yet showing, should be rather under-watered, and no water 
should stand in the saucers. Hence beginners will be safer if 
the pots merely stand on boards. 

Peach House.—Owing to alterations and fresh work in other 
houses, our Peach house is so crammed with plants above and 
below, as scarcely to give 1 foot of path or moying room. 
Hanging and other shelves have been so relieved as to permit 
of Strawberry pots being placed on them, and the fruit trees, 
from the heat used to keep all the plants safe, are coming into 
bloom near the heating medium. For the last fortnight we 
have scarcely had an hour’s sun all put together, and, therefore, 
to fertilise the forward blooms, a thin piece of wood, to act in 
the way of a fan, has been waved over and close to them, so as 
to help to disperse the pollen, and some very soft feathers, as 
irom the breast of a partridge, have been used for the purpose, 
as specified above for Strawberries. These modes are chiefly re- 
quired in such very dull weather, and they will be most effectual 
in securing their object when the sun peeps out, if only for 
afew minutes. Nothing can quite make up for the want of 
the sunbeam in such cases, but something may be gained by 
the modes referred to, and still more by a low temperature in 
proportion to the weather securing strong blooms, instead of 
weak ones in a somewhat high temperature uncounteracted by 
the strengthening rays of direct light. In such weather we 
would rather have a Peach house below 50° than above it at 
night, with a rise of from 5° to 10° during the day; but if the 
day was sunny, and air given early, however little, and the 
vise in temperature gradual, we would not object to a rise, from 
sun heat alone, to from 5° to 25° higher. We would far prefer 
that gradual rise to admitting great blasts of cold, frosty air. 
In such cold, unsettled weather, when fire heat must generally 
be resorted to in the morning, the chief danger will come from 
a strong fire heat and a bright sun heat being allowed to act 
together, and this can only be prevented by the care and atten- 
tion of the person who, in firing and air-giving, attends to the 
houses. When sun is expected it is always well to let the fire 
heat become gradually reduced as the sun gains power, and the 
fire heat again begin to tell as the sun heat declines. 


ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Here the chief work of routine, as alluded to in previous 
numbers, has been cleaning, attending to plants in houses, 
bringing forward Roses, Deutzias, &c., and bulbs in heat, 
taking off and inserting cuttings of plants, of which great 
qnantities will be wanted in summer, and preparing for sowing 
such annuals as Lobelias and Petunias. Preparing for slight 
hotbeds has also occupied some time. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 


N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next 
week. 


Boors (Auricula).—You can haye the three books you name free by 
post from our office if you name them, enclose eighteen postage stamps, 
and send your address. (M. G.).—Keane's * In-door and Out-door Gar- 
dening”-+ contains complete monthly directions for in and out-door 
gardening. You may have the two yolumes per post from our office for 
3e. 4d. in stamps. 


Tax ON GARDENER—GUN LICENSE (Constant Reader).—You must make 
a return of your gardener on the schedule of taxes. Unless you take out 


a game certificate, you must have a gun license to entitle your gardener 
to shoot small birds, 


[ February 2, 1871. 


FoREIGN NURSERYMEN’S PRicEs (G. S.).—We are quite aware that they 
are much lower than those charged by nurserymen in England, but unless 
plants are purchased in large quantities the expense of carriage renders 
those prices quite as high. Competition is so active here that if a living 
profit could be made out of lower prices, some nurserymen would soon 
adopt them. 


Irauian SEEDS (J. E. B.).—We cannot name plants from seeds. 


Rep LEAD oN SEEDS (HW. C. W.).—It has no injurious influence in any 
way. The subject was remarked upon in our eighteenth volume. 


ACORNS IN A BotrLe oF WATER (J. B.).—They are only so treated as a 
curiosity, so you may keep them there as long as you please. 


Pears DECAYING AT THEIR CoRES (Europa).—Some yarieties are more 

rone than others to blet like their near relative the Medlar, and those 
you sent are two of them. No reason has been assigned for this. If 
ripening was hastened by keeping the fruit warm and in the light, the 
exterior might ripen before the interior began to blet. 


Patm SEEDS Sowine (Delta).—The kinds you name, like all the tribe, 
are easily raised from seeds, but these are slow in vegetating. They may 
be sown now singly in small pots in a sandy-peat compost, and the pots 
should be plunged in a hotbed at 85° or 90°, and if there is a top heat of 
70° to 75°, with a rise from sun heat to 85° or 90°, they could not be better. 
The soil must be kept moist, and a close moist atmosphere is desirable. 
They may vegetate in from six weeks to three months, but, if they do not, 
have patience. 


ABUTILON AND LANTANA TREATMENT (Idem).—The former is a green- 
house plant, so is the latter, but both may be used for flower-garden 
decoration from May to October. We presume they are now kept rather 
dry. In February, or early in March, prune them if at all straggling, 
cutting them pretty closely ; indeed, we cut ours closely in, like a Rose 
bush, to two or three eyes, shake the plants out of the pots, reducing the 
ball considerably, and repot in a compost of light turfy loam, with one- 
third leaf soil, anda free admixture of silver sand. Liberal drainage is 
given, and the plants are sparingly watered for a time, but sprinkled 
overhead two or three times a-day with aired water, and when they are 
growing freely liberal supplies of water are given. The plants should be 
shifted into their blooming pots by the beginning of June. A light, airy 
position in a greenhouse suits them. 


MELON For FRAME (C.).—Your deep wood frame will be suitable for 
the hardier sorts of Melons. If you can command enough stable dung 
to fill the frame to within a foot of the glass, you will be enabled, from 
the bottom heat to grow Beechwood or Heckfield Hybrid, both good, free- 
setting kinds. We would fill the frame with the hot dung by the middle 
of April, and when it had settled down, or in a week, we would level it, 
and put in the centre of the bed a ridge of soil from 10 inches to a foot 
in depth, and with a base twice as great, covering the dungalloyer about 
3 inches deep. When the compost is warmed through we would turn out 
the plants, one at every 2 feet, the end plants being 1 foot from the ends. 
This is better than planting two plants under each light. When the 
plants commence to spread their vines, add more soil, so as to cover the 
bed 10 inches deep. The best compost for Melons is a strong loam, and 
if turfy all the better. It should be choppedand made firm. No manure 
is necessary; but if you cannot obtain hot dung, then you may add to 
the compost one-fourth of well-rotted manure, mixing it well. Failing the 
hot dung, you will need to grow what are known as the hardy ridge 
varieties, and of those Achapesnorricher is the best. The plants should 
be raised on a hotbed, though the variety named will do sown where it is 
to remain. 


RosEs FoR EarLty Bioomine (H. Foy).—Your plan of growing Roses 
in pots plunged in summer and winter, for early blooming in an orchard 
house, is quite feasible. We should advise their being grown either on 
the Manetti stock or on their own roots, and amend your list as under :— 
Pole Roses: Gloire de Dijon, Général Jacqueminot, Madame Charles Cra- 
pelet, Paul Verdier, Madame Clémence Joigneaux, John Hopper. For Pots. 
—Hybrid Perpetuals : Charles Lefebvre, Pierre Notting, Madame Caillat, 
Alfred Colomb, Boule de Neige, La Ville de St. Denis, La France, Senateur 
Vaisse, John Hopper, Duke of Edinburgh, Madame la Baronne de Roths- 
child. Bourbon: Souvenir de la Malmaison, Louise Margottin, Michel 
Bonnet. Noisettes same as list, Céline Forestier, Cloth of Gold, Maréchal 
Niel. In addition to these you ought to grow some Tea Roses—vyiz., 
Madame Bravy, Madame Willermoz, Madame de Vatry, Marie Ducher, 
Adam, Souvenir d’un Ami, La Boule d’Or, Alba Rosea. The best soilis 
the top spit of good pasture loam mixed with one-third good decayed 
manure, and a few bruised bones and pieces of charcoal; use sifted 
cinders as drainage. 


Goop RosEs oF RECENT INTRODUCTION (C. 4. Smyth).—Alfred Colomb 
Abel Grand, Berthe Baron, Boule de Neige, Duke of Edinburgh, Elie 
Morel, Fisher Holmes, Horace Vernet, La France, Madame la Baronne de 
Rothschild, Julie Touvais, Mdlle. Marie Rady, Marguerite de St. Amand, 
Marie Baumann, Princess Mary of Cambridge, Monsieur Noman, Monsieur 
Woolfield, Xavier Olibo, Marquise de Mortemart, Madame Creyton, Thyra 
Hammerick, Adolphe Brongniart. 


List oF Roses (R.).—Instead of Madame Canrdbert, Comtesse de 
Paris, Meyerbeer, J. Keynes, Alba Carnea, Exposition de Brie, and Al- 
paide de Rotalier, we should name Charles Lefebyre, Alfred Colomb, 
La Duchesss de Morny, Madame la Baronne de Rothschild, Monsieur 
Noman, Madame Caillat, and La France. The others in the list are very 
good. 


SHowy CLIMBER FOR GREENHOUSE (Idem).—For winter blooming there 
is no better climber than Kennedya Marryatte, a scarlet Pea-shaped 
flower, with handsome trefoil foliage. For spring and summer you might 
haye Clematis Jackmanni, deep violet purple, or Clematis Sieboldi, lilac 
white with violet stripes. Nearly all the new Clematises are yalu- 
able as greenhouse climbers, and, being hardy, are not injured in seyere 
winters. Tacsonia Van-Volxemi, with pendant (Passion-flower-shaped) 
scarlet flowers, is also a very free, showy climber, but requires plenty of 
space. Some of the Tropolums of the elegans race are well worth 
growing as greenhouse climbers. The hardy Passiflora crerulea forms a 
valuable climber for covering a back wall, as the foliage is very orna- 
mental, and it will succeed with a north or east aspect. If your green- 
house has an intermediate temperature we can recommend the old 
Plumbago capensis, with its soft French-grey flowers, as a yery valuable 
plant trained as a climber, either for a pillar or back wall. 


Cactus CuLtTURE (Zdem),—Large Cactuses ought to be kept on shelves 


— 


February 2, 1871. ] 


near the glass, and dry at the roots, during the winter months. They do 

not require much pot room, and ought not to be repotted till after they 

have done flowering. -Give water when they begin to show their buds, and 

do not let them want for water during the blooming and growing season. 

An intermediate temperature suits them best. Some of the Cactus tribe 

Bee Cereuses, Epiphyllums, and others make good plants for hanging 
askets. 


PHALENOPSIS BEARING YOUNG Puants (4 Reader).—All the species of 
Phalenopsis do more or less freely produce young plants on their flower 
spikes affer they have finished blooming, P. Liiddemanniana being the 
most prolific, and P. Schilleriana the shyest in doing so. Probably the 
reason the latter kind so very seldom produces young plants in this way 
is that the flower spikes nearly always die back soon after the flowers 
fade, and thus there is no time for the development of any latent buds, 
whilst the spikes of the other species live for several years. We haye 
only once seen P. Schilleriana produce a young plant in this way. 


GERANIUM LEAVES BLIGHTED (H, 4. K.).—Your question was answered 
two weeks since. 


Manunine A LAwn (J. W. M.).—Nothing would do your lawn so much 
good as dressing it early in March, or as soon as the ground becomes 
thoroughly thawed, with short manure. Spread it regularly, and let it lie 
until April; then, after a shower, rake the lawn with an iron rake—you 
need not fear damaging the grass—and this done sow over the lawn Suck- 
ling Clover (Trifolium minus) at the rate of 12 lbs. per acre, and your 
soil being light and gravelly we would add 14 1b. Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus 
corniculatus minor). Rake over lightly after sowing, and roll well with 
a heavy roller, but you must have the lawn in such a state that the soil 
~does not adhere to the roller. An ordinary garden roller will answer. 
We think you will have a good lawn by the time hot weather sets in. 


MELON FOR EXHIBITION EARLY IN JUNE (Idem).— To have Melons 
ripe early in June we sow in the first week in February, and grow the 
plants in a pit or house heated by hot water. In a dung hotbed, ripening 
them at the beginning of June is very uncertain. Williams’s Paradise 
Gem is a good early scarlet-fleshed kind, and Meredith’s Hybrid Cash- 
mere, a fine green-fleshed variety. Plants of Show Pelargoniums for 
exhibition early in June we should select now out of what nurserymen 
term half specimens, which are usually two years old. 


CYCLAMEN PERSICUM VARIETIES RatsineG (W. R. N.).—We do not see 
why you should not add the Cyclamen to your greenhouse plants. It 
will thrive admirably in such a structure as you describe, and we have 
no doubt that by following the instructions given in this Journal by Mr. 
Edgerton, page 24 of the number for January 12th, you will flower them 
within twelye months. You best place for raising the seedlings will be 
the Cucumber frame, which you start early in March, and by continuing 
them in bottom heat you may have them in flower this time twelvemonth. 
A packet of seed wili cost. from 1s. 6d. to 2s. 6d., according to size. The 
largest will be sufficient to give you several dozen plants; we have had 
five dozen from a 2s. 6d. packet of seed. Any of the principal seedsmen 
could supply you with seed; we never depart from our rule not to recom- 
mend dealers. 


Roses In Pots (Idem).—The soil in which you ‘have potted your Roses 
is just what we use for Tea-scented, China, and Noisette Roses in pots— 
i.e., the top inch or inch and half of a common where the soil is a light 
yegetable soil, half peat half loam, or something intermediate between the 
two, adding about one-third of rotten dung. Our Roses succeed well in 
it, and we have no doubt yours will,as the compost answers well for Gera- 
niums. The soil you have used could not have been better. Rosesin 
pots, and especially those on their own roots, do best in a light goil. Stiff 
clay soils no doubt suit the Briar, but are totally unsuitable for the kinds 
youname. We would not repot them again now, but give them a tria). 


LaPAGERIA ROSEA IN A Por (T. W.).—Pot it now, if no$ already done, 
and in what would be considered a large pot for other plants. Provide 
efiicient drainage, and use a compost of fibrous brown peat torn in 
pieces but not sifted, adding silver sand liberally. Pot so that thesetting- 
on of the roots may be just covered with soil. Give an abundant supply 
of water, and afford it a light, airy position in the greenhouse; all the 
better if shielded from the bright midday sun without resorting to arti- 
ficialshade. Train the shoots to a flat or table-like trellis. When itis 
growing it will require water every day. The soil must always be kept 
moist. When growing freely it cannot have too much water. 


CELERY CULTURE (A. B.).—To cultivate Celery successfully you must 
sow the seed early in March in pans of rich light soil, just covering it 
with fine soil. Place the pans in a gentle hotbed or house with a tempe- 
rature of from 50° to 60°. When the plants appear keep them near the 
glass, so as to prevent drawing, and when they have made the second 
rough leaf prick off about 2 or 3 inches apart on a slight hotbed, covering 
the bed with about 3 or 4inches of fine rich soil. Protect with a frame 
and light if practicable; if not, use mats supported by hoops stretched 
across the bed. Themats may be removed in mild weather, but should 
remain over the plants for some time after pricking out, so as to screen 
them from powerful sun, and at night, if frosty, the mats should be placed 
over the plants. If in a frame the plants will need shade from bright 
San until established. Admit air abundantly whenever the weather is 
mild. Harden well off before planting out, and attend to watering. At 
the end of Mayor earlyin June they should be planted out. Make 
‘trenches 15 or 18 inches wide, 4 feet apart, and 15 inches deep, and place 
in each not less than 3 inches, and better 6 inches, of well-rotted manure. 
Dig in the manure at the bottom of the trenches, and then fork well over 
prior to planting, breaking the clods and mixing the manure thoroughly. 
Plant about 9 inches apart, removing the plants with a good ball, and 
water well at planting, and afterwards two or three times a-week if the 
weather be dry. When the plants are growing freely copious waterings 
oi liquid manure may be given twice a-week with advantage. In earth- 
ing-up, carefully close the stalks, so as to keep out the soil. If you wish 
for an early crop, sow in February and grow the plants in heat; they 
will be fit to plant in the trenches in May. For a late crop sow at the 
beginning of April, pricking out in the open air as described for those 
sown in March, and plant ontin July. We grow Sandringham White and 
Ivery’s Nonsuch, and about four other sorts, but the two named we like 
best. The “Garden Manual” contains full instructions for Celery cul- 
ture. It may be had post free from our office fortwenty stamps. 

CYCLAMEN ATKINSI SEED SowiNe (W. S.).—Sow the seed now, or not 
later than March, place it in a gentle hotbed, pot off the seedlings singly 
when large enougk to handle, return them to the hotbed, continue to 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


91 


grow them in gentle heat, andin autumn remove them to the greenhouse « 
The treatment does not differ essentially from that of C. persicum, and 
as you have been successful in flowering it in ten months from the seed, 
we have no doubt you will also succeed with C. Atkinsi. The seed you 
hove had could not have been good. Try again. We usually sow ours 
in autumn as soon asripe, and place the pan on a shelf in the greenhouse, 
for though the forcing of these plants is all the rage just now, we do not 
think it necessary for successful treatment. It remains to be seen what 
will be the result of the forcing treatment on the plants in a few years. 
Ours have no bottom heat in any of their stages, at least not after the 
first year, for we do not think plants nearly hardy (some of them quite so) 
in any way improved by atemperature greater than they naturally require. 


OrcHIDS FoR CooL ConsERVATORY (Beechwood).—We haye no doubt 
the following Orchids would thrive well in the temperature you name, 
40° to 50°; but then the house must not be treated as an ordinary green- 
house. Such plants as Fuchsias, Geraniums, and others like to have 
the side lights open, so that the air may blow through them, but this 
does not suit Orchidaceous plants, for although they have plenty of wind 
and full exposure to air in their native habitats, yet it must be remem- 
bered that wind with us, and also our entire atmosphere, usually tend to 
dry up moisture, but in the Orchid regions the atmosphere is heavily 
charged with moisture. In a temperature of from 40° to 50°, the follow- 
ing Orchids may be grown if the air be kept charged with moisture, and 
not so much air admitted as is usual for ordinary greenhouse plants :— 
Ada aurantiaca, Anguloa Clowesii, Arpophyllum giganteum, Cattleya 
citrina, C. maxima, C. Trianei; Cymbidium pendulum, Cypripedium 
insigne, C. caricinum, C. Schlimii, C. venustum; Ccelogyne cristata; 
C. corrugata; Dendrobium Hillii, D. nobile, D. moniliforme, D. specio- 
sum, D. lingueforme; Epidendrum ibaguense, E. vitellinum; Barkeria 
Skinneri, B. spectabilis ; Lelia albida, L. autumnalis, L. majalis; Lycaste 
Skinneri, Mesospinidium sanguineum, Odontoglossum Alexandre ; 
O. Bluntii, O. luteo-purpureum, O. grande; Oncidium aurosum, O. bi- 
folium, O. nubigenum, O. Phalenopsis ; Phajus grandifolius ; Pleione ma- 
culata, P. lagenaria, P. Wallichii; Sophronitis grandiflora, and Zygo- 
petalum Mackayi. 


PINE APPLES WITH LARGE Crowns (Pine).—It is chiefly attributable 
to Weal crow, and in your case probably arising from the plants being 
too far‘trom the glass; they cannot be too close to it if the leaves do not 
touch it. The plants are grown too close together; give them more 
room, all the light possible, and plenty of air. With good, stiff, sturdy 
plants you will obtain a greater weight of fruit froma given ‘space than 
you will from one-third more plants in the same space. Another cause 
of large crowns is the plants being old, for these generally have a large 
leaf development, and afford comparatively small fruit. 


VINERY Prantine (Ten-years Subscriber)—We regret you have ar- 
ranged to plant the Vines outside. Could you not ‘alter this and plant 
them inside? It might easily have been effected by haying the front 
wall pillared, which we think it must already be, as the border is iaside 
as well as outside. Plant.inside by all means, if you can, and if you 
cannot, we do not see the utility of your inside border. The bottom 
being a sandy rubble there is no necessity to concrete. We apprehend 
you do not wish for sorts that require a high temperature, but such as 
succeed well with Hamburghs, which you meptioa. In addition to the 
three Hamburghs you will have room for ten Vines. We should plant 
them 8 feet apart, the end Vines 18 inches from the ends. We should 
plant two Black Hamburgh, two Frankenthal, two Trentham Black, 
one Black Prince, one Buckland Sweetwater, two Foster’s Whits Seed- 
lng, one Trovéren Frontignan, one Golden Champion, and one General- 
delia Marmora. We have omitted the Muscats and late Grapes, which 
require more heat than the preceding, and are best grown by themselves ; 
indeed, they cannot well be grown in a miscellaneous collection. We 
would not plant any fruiting Vines, but would have those known as 
strong planting canes, nor would we introduce any Peaches or Apricots 
in pots, as they will not do well more than three years. No doubt they 
would do well this and the following year, if you obtain trees in a bearing 
state. They will, of course, require to be in pots. 


Payine wits Fuet, &c. (H. A. D.).—In this matter we haye no ex- 
perience. We consider it to bea bad plan to pay in milk, Potatoes, peat 
fuel, &c. Six inchesof thatch wou'd do for the sod-covered ice house. 


OrcHarp House Fruit TrEEs (C. T.).—With Peaches on the back 
wall, we think that one cane would have been enough for each Vine. We 
should be disposed to leave two in those cases where they were extra 
strong and the contiguous Vines weak, until they gathered strength. Hven 
the strongest of the Vines we should never think of leaving the length of 
the rafter. By doing so, if the wood is well ripened, you may have a lot 
of fruit this year, but your Vines will do little good afterwards. A few of 
the strongest we would leave half their length, the others one-third, and 
the weakest less. A little sacrifice now with young Vines will be gain in 
the end. A shady pit will not do for early Vines where the heat is de- 
ficient. If the damp is too much, you must cover the hot-water tank 
more securely. Under the circumstances the beginning of February 
would be early enough. 


CucumseR House (7. M.)—In reference to the Cucumber house 
alluded to at page 55, the further information is given that the house 
is span-roofed, that there is to be a bed on each side, that the house 
iz to be heated by a flue, and the chief questions are, How is top and 
bottom heat to-be obtained, and whether earthenware tiles or bricks 
would be best for use? First, then, earthenware tiles would be of 
no use forguchapurpose. You will require a good strong flue of bricks 
all round. For such a narrow house, 8 feet wide, we would have been 
satisfied with a bed in front, and the ‘flue "going through that would 
haye given bottom heat to the bed, whilst the back flue would be for 
top heat. For such a purpose we would make the first 6 feet of the flue 
from the furnace brick-on-bed, and the rest all round brick-on-edge. 
A flue 9 inches wide inside and 14 inches deep would be required, to be 
covered with strong tiles, with the tiles beneath to cross the joints. Then 
there are various modes you might adopt. First, Take a 41-inch brick 
wall all round inside, or at least on both sides, as the boundary of thé 
beds inside, make an open bottom of slates, &c., 4 inches above the flue, and 
have openings in the wall to put water into evaporating-pans on the flue. 
These openings with slides will enable you to let the air, heated or moist, 
into the atmosphere of the house. Another plan is simpler still. Make 
the inside next the pathway-side of your flue 4}-inch work, or brick-on- 
bed all round, when you cover the flue raise these walls at the side to the 
necessary height, between the flue and the outside walls fill in as 


92 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 2, 1871. 


a 


hollow as possible with clinkers and brickbats, put one layer over the 
flue likewise, and finish all across with fine-washed pebbly gravel, so as 
to make the bottom for your earth bed. Before finishing the open rubble, 
fix upright at every 3 or 4 feet a drain-tile of 3 inches in diameter, to be 
supplied with a plug above the soil’s level; when you pour water down 
among the rubble it will rise again in vapour as you work, and you will 
remark, by so doing, the water will never come directly on the flue. By 
this means you can have top heat moister dry. The inside of the flue 
will be for top heat, and the top and the sides next the outside walls for 
bottom heat. There can be no plan simplerand more economical under 
the circumstances. 


FLOWER GARDEN Puan (M. X., Cheshire).—We think your proposed 
border would look better if the Cerastium were continued on both sides, 
though of unequal widths, interrupted now by the angles of the 
diamonds. This would reduce the latter, but that would be an improve- 
ment, as making all more uniform in size. Making the connecting lines 
of 2 (Lobelia) wider, would on the same principle be an improvement. The 
Aurea floribunda Calceolaria, if young dwarf plants, will do very well. 
Of the Nasturtium and Petunia in diamonds we are more doubtful, as 
the one will need so much picking, and the other so much pegging. By 
lessening the diamonds and the Cerastium, and widening the Lobelia, 
ae Bene the diamonds of yellow and dwarf scarlet Geraniums would 
ook well. 


Hares Barxine Fruir TREES (Lady Waterford).—Though the bark of 
your fruit trees has been damaged by hares, in all probability the vital 
portion or inner bark has not been so destroyed, but if properly pro- 
tected at once, it will be able to perform its functions in the next season. 
For this puypose let all the wounds be covered as soon as possible with 
the mastic L’Homme Lefort, or any sort of grafting-wax. The plaster 
made of cow dung and clay applied to the wound and bound round with 
old sacking, will answer very well in the absence of the mastic. The best 
preventive we know against these ravages of hares and rabbits, is to dip 


eras of brown paper in gas tar, and when dry to bind them round the 
ees. 


PARENTAGE OF AURICULAS (G. S.).—“I believe it to be generally ac- 
knowledged, that the parent of both the Alpine and florists’ Auriculas is 
the Primula Auricula. As to the two kinds not crossing, so famis that 
from being the case, that many Auricula growers will not allow any 
Alpine near their florists’ varieties for fear of deteriorating the seed, the 
Alpine being more vigorous and exercising a very marked influence on 
the seed vessels.—D., Deal.” 


BEGONIA FUCHSIOIDES WITH SMALL Frowers (A Lady in Cheshive).— 
« The smallness of the flowers is owing to the growth being weak. The 
only way to remedy the defect is to grow the plants in a more airy lighter 
structure, so as to secure strong, short-jointed, firm shoots, and then we 
have no doubt the flowers will be larger, for as the wood is so are the 
flowers. They would do better in ayinery in summer than in a close stove, 
which is apt to cause weak shoots. Cut away the weak old growths and 
encourage fresh shoots from the base. Ours are now sending up several 
strong young shoots, and in about a month they will be in a vinery at a 
temperature of 50° to 55° at night. When the plants are flowering, or 
rather when they begin to show flower, they are benefited by the appli- 
cation of weak liquid manure two or three times a-week. 


OLEANDER Bare av Borrom (Idem).—There is no remedy but to cut it 
down to within 6inches of the pot, and we should do this early in March, 
keeping the plant rather dry, and then to encourage it to break freely we 
would place it in a yinery or other house with a moist gentle heat. You 
may make cuttings of the upper parts. The points of the shoots, cut off 
from 4 to 6 inches long, strike freely insandy soil on a hotbed. The old 
plant will not flower this year, but should have every encouragement, 
being potted when it has made shoots a few inches long. If you have 
room we would not cut the plant down, but keepit asa standard; nothing 
can be finer than a standard with a good head on a 6-feet stem. Ours are 
bushy plants about 6 feet high, with from six to a dozen shoots starting 
from near the soil. If you keep the standard, strike cuttings early in 
summer, and grow the plants as dwarfs, by stopping them when 6 inches 
high to induce side shoots, which should be again stopped; you will thus 
have plants feathered from the pot, but they will not be in a blooming 
state for three years. 


SHRUEBBY CALCEOLARIAS RAIstnG (J. D.).—Between the present time 
and March you may sow the seed in pans well drained, and filled witha 
compost of light turfy loam two parts, and one part leaf mould, with a 
sixth of silver sand. Mix the soil well, and sift it fine, make the surface 
smooth, scatterthe seeds evenly over the surface, and sprinkle with silver 
sand lightly. Place the pans in a hotbed, keep the soil moist, and when 
the plants are large enough to handle prick them off singly about an inch 
apart in pots or pans. Continue the plants in the hotbed, and when they 
meet pot them off singly in 38-inch pots; at. the end of May remove them 
to a cold frame, gradually harden them off, and finally plant out in 
June, or when they are bushy plants. They may flowerin autumn, but 
will be of no use for flower garden purposes. Could you not now procure 
cuttings of some neighbour? They would strike freely in gentle heat, 
and be good plants by bedding-out time. It is as much as the seedlings 
will do to make plants fit for planting out by autumn, and unless you get 
seed of a good strain it is not worth the trouble of sowing. 


VARIETIES oF GRAPE (—).—You will see by our columns that atten- 
tion is being drawn to this subject, and we have no donbt that Grape- 
growers will fayour us with their experience; but we do not see what 
greater information would be secured than we possess already in Dr. 
Hoge’s ‘Fruit Manual.” Neither of the authorities you name grows for 
fruiting more than half the Grapes described in Messrs. Rivers’s cata- 
logue, to which we think you refer, in dividing Grapes into three classes 
—viz., Museats, Frontignans, and those not Muscat nor Frontignan. 
There is no best black or white Muscat suitable for early forcing. As to 
Frontignans, the White is excellent for early forcing, but is superseded 
by the Trovéren, and of the Red none is equal to the Red or Grizzly 
Erontignan for early forcing, though Purple Constantia is good. Fron- 
tignans are better suited for early forcing than Muscats, which cannot 
be well ripened before June or July, but the others may be ripened in 
May or earlier. Of Grapes neither Muscat nor Frontignan, there is none 
so good as the Black Hamburgh. Black Champion is good, but not equal 
to Frankenthal or the old Hamburgh, though in an early vinery we should 
plant it for its earliness along with both the others. It is very doubtful 
whether the Early Black Bordeaux will retain its early-ripening proper- 


cut it down, unless you dispose of it for smaller plants. 


ties. Royal Ascot is excellent for early forcing, especially forpot culture. 
We should include it in an early vinery, for we agree with you that it is 
well to plant more than one kind, so as to hayeasuccession. Mill Hilt 
Hamburgh, in our opinion the best of all the Hamburghs, requires 2 
higher temperature than the Black Hamburgh and Frankenthal, and 
ripens a fortnight later. Of the white kinds not Muscats nor Frontignans, 
Foster’s White Seedling must supplant the Royal Muscadine, and of other 
white kinds Buckland Sweetwater is the best, for though there are some 
that Tipen earlier, as Early White Malvasia, they are so small in berry 
that it is worth while to wait a few days. With us the White Frontignar 
is a fortnight earlier than Buckland Sweetwater in the same house. Of 
grafting kinds for early forcing we have but little experience, but we have 
no doubt it tends to cause earlier ripening, for grafting has a tendency 
to produce that result irrespective of stock, as you will find if you have 
a Hamburgh grafted on a Hamburgh stock, and another growing on its 
own roots, the grafted ripening earlier than the non-grafted. For acce- 
lerating the ripening, were we to graft at all, we should try Duc de 
Magenta, a vigorous grower, ripening several days earlier than the 
Hamburgh. 

THEOPHRASTA IMPERIALIS CUTTING DowN AND PRoPAGArTIoNn (E. C.).— 
As you have not room for the plant, there will be no alternative but to- 
The best time to 
cut it down will be the middle of February ; afterwards keep it rather 
dry at the root, but encourage it to break by a brisk heat and moisture. 
The young ripe shoots may be made into cuttings, which should be in- 
serted singly in small pots filled with sandy peat, surrounding the cutting 
with silver sand. Plunge the pots in a hotbed, keep moist, and coyer the 
cuttings with a bell-glass or hand-glass, keeping them close and shaded 
from bright sun. The cuttings may be from 8 to 6 inches in length. 
Trim off the leaves of the part inserted, and cut transversely below 2 
joint. The cutting will be rooted in about six weeks. 


INARCHING VINEs (Subscriber).—The best time to do this is after the 
stock has made shoots a few inches long. There are then leaves to 
appropriate the sap, and with them there is nothing to fear from bleed- 
ing. The operation should be performed near the bottom of the rafter,. 
choosing a smooth part of the stock there, or as near its base as possible. 
Take from the stock a slice of bark and wood about 14 inch long, and an 
equal portion from the scion, and in such a manner that the cuts fit 
exactly; then make a downward cut in the stock about three-quarters of 
an inch long and half an inch deep, and a corresponding cut upwards 
in the scion, and about half or three-parts through. Introduce the cut or 
tongue of the ecion into that of the stock, and so unite them that the 
bark of both may fit exactly, if not on both, at least on one of the sides. 
Bind firmly with a ligature of cotton or bast matting, and cover with 
grafting wax so as to exclude air. A little clay will answer, but to keep 
it from cracking it should be covered with a little moss lightly secured 
with matting. You may inarch on the wood of last year, or that of 
several years’ growth, cr you may operate on the present year’s wood after 
it has become rather firm, yet quite green or unripe. In about six weeks 
the union will be complete, then cut away the part of the stock above 
the scion, and detach the scion from its parent, but make sure that the 
union is complete. The ligature will need to be loosened when the uniom 
is effected; you will notice this from the increased growth of the scion 
Replace it, but loosely. 


EVERGREEN HEDGE FoR GARDEN (C. N. B).—The quickest-growine 
and cheapest is evergreen Privet. If for a boundary fence, Privet will 
not be formidable enough; in that case plant two evergreen Privets, and 
four Thorns or Quicks per yard. Berberis Darwinii and Thorn make a 
beautiful hedge—two plants of the Berberis and four of Thorn per yard. 


SELECT AMARYLLIS—EUCHARIS AMAZONICA CULTURE (4 Lover of 
Flowers).— Meteor, Rosalind, Jupiter, Reticulata, Victoria, and Amazon 
have crimson, white and red, scarlet, and white and crimson-striped 
flowers, and are very beautiful. They require stove treatment, and if 
obtained now they should be plunged in a gentle hotbed, or failing that 
be placed in the warmest part of the house, and they will flower in May. 
After flowering encourage a good leaf growth by an abundant supply of 
water and moisture, and when it is made afford water only to keep the 
leaves from flagging, giving the plants a light position. From September 
to February they may be kept on a shelf inthe stove. Eucharis ama- 
zonica, we presume you now keep ary, giving but little water. When it 
begins to grow water freely, and afford plenty of moisture. When good 
growth has been made, or after July, keep it but moderately supplied with 
water, and place it in a light airy position in the greenhouse, and in Sep- 
tember remove it to a light position in the stove. If it do not throw up 
fiowers keep it dry over the winter, and it will throw up its spikes in 
spring or early in summer. The main point to be attended to is to secure 
a good growth, then ripen it well by exposure to light and air. Afford it 
a Season of rest, and whenit is introduced to heat the flower-spikes will 
be thrown up. 


Growinc*Onrons (4 Lover of our Journal)—There may be different 
means of attaining results, and in growing Onions there are the plan 
adopted by your gardener and that which you describe. Good Onions are 
grown both ways. One is as good asthe other. We prefer sowing them 
in beds 4 feet wide, with 1-foot alleys between, sowing in drills about 
Ginches apart. The alleys afford ready access to the beds for weeding 
and thinning, without in wet weather treading on the beds. The main 
points, however, are to have ground well dug and manured in autumn, 
to turn the ground over in dry weather, in spring to dress with lime and 
soot, or charcoal, to keep off grubs (lightly pointing-in these materials), to 
tread the ground firm, and to sow as early in March as the ground is in 
good working order. Keep the plants clear of weeds, and then thin out 
before they become crowded. Those matters attended to, it is little con- 
sequence whether Onions are sown in beds, or in drills continuously with- 
out alleys. 

SNES HEDGE NEGLECTED (7. H.).—Unless you can bring some of the 
smaller branches down, or lay them into the thin parts, you haye but a 
small chance of making a 12 to 14-feet Holly hedge of any use against 
cattle. We would, however, lay-in as many of the small branches as 
possible, and then take off the top to 4 feet. We would leaye a few of the 
Thorns and Hollies having the best heads. They are very ornamental, 
andif not more frequent than 20 yards apart, would not interfere with 
the growth of the hedge. The best time to cut the hedge down would be 
at the end of March. 


DISA GRANDIFLORA Vicorous (Amateur).—We have no doubt that your 
very vigorous plant will reward you next summer with flowers. We 


February 2, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 3 


sbould say it is in a good state of health. The difficulty is to keep it 


long healthy, especially after it flowers. 

AspHatTe Watxs (4 Lady).—There is no objection to asphalte garden 
walks except their colour, if they are quite hard in warm weather. The 
Company you inquire about is the Val de Travers Asphalte Company, 
Leadenhall Street, London, H.C. 

Box HEDGE STRAGGLING (M. G.).—Your only plan will be to cut it well” 
in this spring, clipping with the shears, which may be done to any extent? 
but as you do not wish for greater height, we would confine the cutting 
to the sides, merely removing any straggling growths at the top, so as to 
promote uniformity of growth. It is well not to prune or clip too early. 
From the middle of April to the end of May is a good time, but the work 
may safely be done after the Box begins growth. 

Raisinc HERBACEOUS PLANTS FROM SEED (Idem).—Ag you wish for 
plants for gale, it will be necessary to grow the most popular kinds. They 
may be sown in May in the open ground, in rich light soil, watering in 
dry weather, and when large enough to handle prick them off about 
3 inches apart:—Alyssum saxatile compactum, Anemone coronaria va- 
rieties, Antirrhinum varieties, Aquilegia vulgaris varieties, A. vulgaris 
earyophylloides varieties, Arabis alpina, Auriculas, Double Daisy, Canter- 
bury Bells, Delphinium formosum, Double’ Feverfew, Gentiana acaulis, 
Geum coccineum, Pansies (for spring flowering sowin July), Hollyhocks, 
Musk, Myosotis sylvatica, blue, rose, and white; Pentstemons, Phlox 
decussata, Pinks, Carnations, Picotees, Polyanthuses, Rockets, Brompton 
and Intermediate Stocks (sow the middle of July), Sweet Williams and 
Wallflowers. Red lead will not injure vegetable seeds, and it effectually 
protects them from birds, mice, and rats. The last did us great mischief 
in the past year, until we coated the seeds with red lead before sowing. 


Names or Fruits (Rev. C. Badham).—1, Reinette Blanche d’Espagne ; 
2, Northern Spy; 3, Foulden Pearmain. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


RESULTS OF POULTRY-KEEPING. 


Ir is often said that comparisons are odious, and to those who 
eannot bear to take the inferior place they certainly are go, but 
LT should be glad if any of your readers would favour me with 
their experiences on the following statement, as I might then 
either learn in what way others have been more successful, or 
be the means of affording information to them. 


- Eggs set ...... aisieicicte falslofetatelolofeleisielelstaitisvetsteles 146 
Chickens hatched 93, or 63 per cent. 
Chickens reared.......... esiccecasescsecess 09, 0r4) per cent. 


Of these thirty-five were cocks and twenty-four hens.—W. H. 


ABERDEEN POULTRY AND PIGEON SHOW. 


(From a Correspondent.) 


‘Tuts again maintained its position as one of the leading exhibitions 
in the northern part of the kingdom. The entries were more numerous 
than on any previous occasion, and the quality of the stock exhibited has 
rarely been equalled. Of the arrangements I can only say that they 
were well matured by an efficient committee, and faithfully carried 
out by an active secretary and assistants. 

_Game.—The class for single cocks was represented by twenty-five 
birds of rare excellence, many of them haying gained first prizes at 
other shows, and all being fit to win. The single hen class was nearly 
as good. The cockerels and pullets were by far the best, although 
some of the unnoticed pens should haye been in the prize list. Many 
good judges thought pen No. 105 should have carried off the cup. 

Spanish were scarcely so good as they had been in former years, 
although many good pens were exhibited. Tho winning pens were all 
good, and that which gained the cup changed hands shortly after the 
Show opened. 


Dorkings, as usual, formed the principal classes at this Show; rarely 


indeed has such a collection been brought together. The Silver-Grey 
were in many cases heavier than the Coloured, indeed Aberdeen Shows 
surpass in Silver-Grey Dorkings. Some disappointment was caused 
with the awards in this class; many of the unnoticed pens should 
have been in the prize list, our oldest and most experienced breeders 
being left out in’ the cold. I was particularly struck with pens 106 
and 115 in the cockerel and pullet class being passed over without 
eyen a notice. In Coloured Dorkings the Judge was more at home, 
and seemed to prefer them, having given the cup forthe best pen of 
Dorkings to the first-prize cockerel and pullet. 

Cochin-Ohinas seem to be falling back in the north; the birds 
exhibited this year were far behind the specimens we were accustomed 
to look upon at the former shows of this Club. The prize pens were 
well placed. Some would have preferred the third-prize cock in the 
place of the first, and I think they shonld have changed places. 

Brahma Pootras were a large and good class, many of the birds 
zeminding me of the specimens exhibited in the days when Mr. Boyle 
Was so successful. I was not satisfied with the awards in this class, 
the Judge evidently preferring rough and large birds to those of better 
shape and marking. The cup hens well deserved their place, and 
were the best pair of hens exhibited in Aberdeen since Mr. Boyle 
competed some six years ago. 

Houdans were 2 fair class. and seem to make way a little. I cannot 
say but I would have awarded the prizes differently. Pen No. 200 


ought surely to have been in the prize list. Perhaps the Judge thinks 
the light-coloured variety inferior to the dark. 

Hamburghs are falling back in the north. With the exception of 
the prize pensnothing deserves especial mention; the Golden-pencilled 
were the best, and the cup hens the best in their class. 

Bantams.—Game mustered more strongly than ever, no less than 
thirty Bantam cocks competing for the prizes; the Judge must have 
had much difficulty in deciding where all were so good. The cup in 
this class was carried off by a remarkable bird. In the class for Any 
variety of Bantams, with the exception of the winning pens there was 
nothing calling for special notice. 

Ducks, both Aylesbury and Rouen, were well represented, although 
I have seen better specimens at former shows. I think the Committee 
should offer a cup at their next show, which would doubtless bring a 
better competition. 

Turkeys and Geese were well represented ; although not numerous 
there were some rare specimens exhibited. 

The Selling Class comprised many fine birds, which, on the opening 
of the Show, were speedily claimed. 

PIGEONS. 

The Pigeon section formed the best and most attractive portion of 
the Show, such a collection never haying been seen so far north, there 
being 250 entries. It is to be regretted that the birds of Mr. Horner, 
of Harewood, arrived too late for judging, from being detained on the 
railway. They comprised some of the best birds exhibited, and would 
haye been sure to have been in the prize list. 

Pouters were exhibited in five classes for cocks and five for hens. 
The Blues and Blacks were perfection, being all birds which ‘had pre- 
viously carried off honours at the Crystal Palace and Edinburgh Shows. 
The cup for the best Pouter was won by Mr. Ure’s grand black cock. 
The class for Reds or Yellows was one of the largest, and contained 
many fine birds. I think this class was the worst judged in the Show, 
the best Red cock I have seen this season being placed only third ; he 
certainly ought to have been first, being good in shape and form, and 
rich in colour. In Whites the best cock in the Show was placed third, 
and should have changed places with the first. Hens were better 
judged. The Any-coloured class contained a mongrel-looking set, but 
birds useful for stock purposes. Carriers were not a large show, but 
some fine specimens particularly noteworthy were exhibited. Short- 
Faced Tumblers were a poor class. The fancy for Tumblers does not 
seem to prosper in the north. Barbs were a large and excellent class, 
the winning pens being birds of great merit, and they will doubtless be 
heard of again: Jantails, which at this Show form always one of the 
largest classes, were better than usual, the winning pens being almost 
perfection. { regretted to notice one exhibitor showing two hens 
(pen 487), which had to be separated during the Show. Jacobins were 
one of the largest classes and contained many fine specimens; here 
again Mr. Horner’s birds were the best, but, being late, could not take 
their proper place. Zrwmpcters were a good class, the best pens in 
the kingdom competing. I think the prizes were justly placed. Turbits 
call for no special notice, the winning pens being small and handsome 
birds. Owls formed a large class, and there were some very fine spe- 
cimens. I think the Whites belonging to Mr. Goddard, of Harlston, 
should have been-first and have carried off the timepiece; they were 
the most admired in the Show. Nuns were a good class, many of 
them being shown without dressing. Had Mr. Symon done a little 
tailoring to his third-prize pair he would have doubtless taken a higher 
place. Dragoons were a large and meritorious class, the winning birds 
at Birmingham and the Crystal Palace competing for the place of 
honour. Antwerps formed a large and attractive class. The Judge 
did not seem quite at home here; many would have preferred some of 
the unnoticed pens to the winning birds. Pen 557, passed over without 
a notice, being out of sight, was the best in the class. The Variety 
class was large, and many rare and valuable specimens were exhibited, 
the winning pen (Laced Wantails), and which also carried off the 
timepiece, attracting much attention. The second-prize pen, a pair 
of Damascenes imported from Constantinople, was also much admired. 
The Selling class consisted of twenty-five entries, and birds worth 
twice the price at which they were entered speedily found buyers. 

The Show was well patronised during the two days it remained open, 
and I was glad to observe a larger number than usual of the pens 
ticketed “Sold.” The names of the Judges and the list of awards 


were given last week. 


Sitver Curs at THE Crystan Panacr Canary SHow.—The Lizard 
and London Fancy cups are already subscribed for, and I should like 
all intending subscribers to send at once, as the time is now so yery 
short. Cinnamons, I am afraid, this year will be left out in the cold; 
nobody will give to this class. I hope to send the cups to the Palace 
on Thursday the 9th inst—Howarrs Asuron, Polefield Hall, Man. 


chester. 


Tue Licur Brauma Cup ar Portsmourn.—t have much pleasure 
in announcing that since my last letter appeared in your columns I 
have received some additional subscriptions towards the eup for Light 
Brahmas, and that the amount promised or paid has reached six 
guineas; the prize will therefore be a valuable one, and I can only 
express a hope that the competition will be close, and that the best 
pen may win. The following ladies and gentlemen haye been contri 
butors—Mrs. Williamson, Mrs. Turner Turner, Miss Hales; Messrs. 


94 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 2, 1871. 


Crowley, Crook, Leno, Long, Maynard, Pares, Rodbard, Rid’ey- 
and Storer. The contributions have varied from 5s. to 10s. 6d., and 
I may add that I have received scarcely any refusals so far in the sub- 
scription Joun Panes, Postford, Guildford. 


LOWESTOFT POULTRY SHOW. 


Tue Lowestoft Poultry Society held their fourth Show in the Town 
. Hall, on the 25th and 26th ult. The entries had increased so much 
that the Committee had to purchase a quantity of new pens, even 
though they refused a number of entries that arrived late. Many of 
the birds that had already carried off honours put in an appearance, 
and added another cup to the honours already obtained by their for- 
tunate owners. The birds were well cared for; some of the Com- 
mittee were always in the room giving their personal attention to the 
feeding, &e., of the birds. Extra prizes were awarded in all classes 
where the entries were large, showing the desire of the Committee to 
gratify the exhibitors as much as possible. The entries had more than 
doubled since the last Show held in the Town Hall, consequently the 
space for visitors was very much curtailed. 

In the Game class the cup went to a grand pen of Brown Rels, 
although the Duckwings belonging to the same exhibitor were worthy of 
equal honour. In this class a roupy cock was sent, but the Committee 
returned it to the owner. There were several other pens worthy of a 
prize. The cup pen of Dorkings was a good, balanced pen, the hen a 
very square bird, the cock quite equal, with good feet. Mr. James's 
well-known pen carried off the Spanish cup. Had it not been for the 
careful attention given by the Committee to the cock bird, feeding him 
with bread and milk, egg, &., he would not have held up to the end 
of the Show. Pen 30 consisted of very good birds, the cock’s comb 
rather falling. The hen in the cup Cochin pen was decidedly the 
finest hen in the class, but I would prefer the cock in pen 39, a bird I 
should like to have seen in the prize list. In the Brahma class I 
thought the second-prize hen better than the cup bird, but the birds were 
not so well matched. Pen 57 contained a good cock, but the hen was 
not equally good. There was a good show of Hamburghs. The cup 
went to a pen of Silver-spangles, the hen one of the best I Lave 
seen for some time, and the cock with a beautiful clear tail. The 
second-prize birds were good, the cock rather faulty in hackle. There 
was a sharp competition in the class for Golden-pencilled. Pen 65, 
unnoticed, ought certainly to have had the first prize in preference to 
the cock with odd sickles. Several other pens were worthy of a better 
place than they obtained. The Silver-pencilled were a poor class; 
nothing worth notice, saying the first-prize pen. ‘The Golden-spangled 
were well shown and fairly placed in the prize list. The second-prize 
pen contained by far the best hen in the class. In the Variety class 
La Fléche were first, Silver Polands second, Black Hamburgh third. 
The Selling class numbered seyenty-one pens. Spanish and White 
Cochins took the first prizes, Brown Red Game and Spanish the 
second, Cochins and Silyer-spangled Hamburghs the third. The two 
classes of Bantams numbered sixty pens. The cup went to a beautiful 
pen of Gold-laced; the prizes in the Game class went to Duckwings 
and Black Reds. There were some fine pens of Ducks, both Ayles- 
bury and Rouen, and ‘in extra prize was given to a very beautiful pen 
of Mandarins. 

There was a good show of Pigeons, the Carriers, numbering forty- 
one pens, were a showin themselyes. Pen 265, highly commended, 
was decidedly the best bird in the cock class, and was worthy of the 
first prize. The first and second-prize birds were very good in eye, but 
rather short in neck. Many of the other pens were filled by very fine 
birds. Pen 269 contained a long-necked bird of good carriage, but 
too young to compete with the winners. The hens were well judged. 
The first prize went to a grand hen with a perfect eye, the second had 
a very good eye, but was too short in the neck; the extra-prize pen was 
better in carriage, but not so good in eye. Pen 280 contained a hen 
with a beautiful head, with cere too red. Although four prizes were 
given in the Young Bird class, yet there were several other pens that 
were worthy of prizes. ‘Che first prize was well adjudged, going to a 
grand young cock; the second was a mistake, pen 293, a good hen, 
ought to have had it ; not another bird in the class, except the first- 
prize bird, could touch her either in eyes or neck. The others were 
fairly judged. The Pouter entries were small, and, beyond the prize 
pens, there was nothing of particular rote, and not a single Blue was 
shown. The Short-faced Tumblers were all good in beak and head, 
some of the pens not well matched, All the prizes went to Almonds. 
In the Long-faced class a very nice pair of Black Balds took first, and 
Yellow Beards second. A yery good pair of Short-faced Blues were 
entered in the wrong class. The first prize for old Barbs went to 
Black, with very good eyes and skulls; the second-prize cock was good, 
but like those in several of the other pens, the hen was not equal to 
the cock. Several yery good pens of young Barbs were shown; both 
prizes went to Blacks; the second-prize pen was soon claimed. The 
winning Fantails carried their tails well. The cock in the second- 
prize pen was the best bird in the class. The first-prize Antwerps 
were good, the others only of average merit. The Variety class con- 
tained some beantiful birds. A fine pair of Black Trampeters, with 
perfect rose, took the first prize. An extra first prize went to a pair 
of Yellow Dragoons, coarse in skull, and the hen bad in colonr on the 
thigh and rump. Blue Runts were second, and a very good pair of 
Magpies extra second. Many other pens were worthy of especial 


note. In the Selling class a pair of White Florentines were first. 
The question is sometimes put, What is there in a name? Anyone 
looking over the new varieties of Pigeons would be convinced there is 
a great deal in a name, for in some of the new specimens certainly 
there is nothing but the name to attract attention. Florentines are a 
striking instance; one would be inclined to class them as inferior 
Runts were it not for the exhibitor having the'name properly entered 


2 the catalogue. The point cup for Pigeons was awarded to Mr. P. H. 
Jones. 


Game (Any variety).—Cup and 2, S. Matthew, Stowmarket (Black Reds and 
Duckwings). Local, T. Sterry, Lowestoft (Black Red). hc, W. Boyes, Bever- 
Hays, eb Hall, Cambridge (Black Red and Duckwing). c, Rey. C. Gilbert, Bur- 

gham. = 

DorginGs (Any variety).—Cup, L. Patton, Hillmore, Taunton. 2, F. Parlett, 
Great Baddow (Coloured). Local, G. W. D. Palmer, Lowestoft. ¢, Mrs. E. 
Wheatley, Ingatestone ; J. Frost, Parham (Coloured); Henry Lingwood, Bark- 
ing, Needham Market, 

‘IsH.—Cup, F, James, Peckham. 2. Howard & Nicholls, Peckham. Local, 
unders, Lowestoft. _he, W. Saunders; J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury. x 
Cocuin-Cuina (Any variety).—Cup, Henry Lingwood (Bnff). 2, Horace Ling- 
wood, Creeting (Partridge). Local, J. Ling, Lowestoft (Partridge). hc, Lacy 
Gwydyr, Stoke Park, Ipswich; J. Dutton, Ipswich (Buff); T. Rogers, Walsall. 
c, J. Watts, King’s Heath (Buff). 

BrauMA Poorra (Any variety).—Cup, Lady Gwydyr. @, W. Adams, Ipswich 
(Dark). Extra, Horace Lingwood (Dark). Local, A. Page, jun., Lowestoft 


(Dank): he, J. K, Fowler. c, Rey. J. Richardson, Sandy (Dark); A. Page, jun. 


Hamepurcus.—Golden-pencilled.—1 and 
E.P. Youell. c, Key. J. Richardson; R. Parker, Ipswich; J. K, Fowler. 
Silver-pencilled—i, H. Pickles, jun., Earby. Golden-spangled —1, H, Pickles, 
jun. 2andLocal, L. Wren, Lowestoft. c, Miss C.K. Palmer, Lighthorne, War- 
wick. Silver-spangled.—l and Cup and Local, J. B. Bly, Lowestoft. 2, Rey. F. 
Tearle. c,H. Pickles, jun.; J. W. Ling, Lowestoft. - 

ANY OTHER VARIETY, EXCEPT BaNTaMs.—l, W. Burrows, Diss (La Fleche). 
2, H. Pickles, jun (Silver Polands). Ex J. Watts (Black Hamburgh). Local, 
Rey. A. Gilbert (Créve Ceeurs), ¢c, W. K. Patrick, West Winch, Lynn (Polands) 
(2); Rey. C. Gilbert (Houdan); Rev. N. J. Ridley, Newbury (Malay); C. Maggs, 
Melksham (Black Hamburgh); J K. Fowler (French). 2 

S¥LLING CLAss.—Cock or Cockerel.—l, ¥. James (Spanish). 2, H.E. Martin, 
Sculthorpe (Brown Red Game). Extra, T. Rogers (Cochin-China). Local, Mrs. 
C. Denton, Lowestoft (Spanish). hc, Howard & Nicholls. c, G. P. Rouse, 
Fakenham (Game). Hens or Pullets.—1, S. Felgate, Ipswich (White Cochins). 
2, Howard & Nicholls. Extra, Rey. F. Tearle, Gazeley Vicarage, Newmarket 
(Silver-spangled Hamburgh). Local, L. Wren (Golden-spangled Hamburgh). 
he, Rev. 'l. C, Hose, Roydon Rectory (Buff Cochins); J. Dutton (Buff Cochins) ; 
H. Brown, Putney Heath (Spanish); R. R. Parker (Black Red Bantams). c, H. 
Pickles, jun. (Polands). 

_ GAME BANTAMS (Any variety).—1, Rey. F. Cooper, Ampney Crucis (Duckwing). 
Extra 1, W. Adams (Black Red). 2, H. W. Wallace, Framlingham (Black Red). 
Extra 2and he, Hon. Mrs. Paget, Hoxne, Scole (Duckwing and Black Reds). 
Local, J. F. S. L. Barber, Lowestoft (Black Red). 

Banrams (Any other variety).—1 and Cup, Rev. G. F. Hodson, North Pethertor. 
2, M. Leno, Markyate Street (Laced). Extra, C. Drake, Stoke, Ipswich (Black). 
Lecal, Migs M. Jodrell, Lowestoft (Japanese). lic, Rey. F. Tearle (White). c, J. 


Watts (Sebrights). 

_Ducxs.—Aylesbury.—t, Lady Gwydyr. 2, J, K. Fowl-r._ Local, F. B. Potts, 

Kessingland, Lowestoft. he, Lady Gwydyr. ° Any other Variety—l, Mrs. E. 
Extra 1, M. Leno (Carolina), 2, J. K. Powler (Ronen). 


2, W. K. Tickner, Ipswich. Local, 


Wheatley (Rouen). 
Local, Rev. A. Gilbert (Musk). 


PIGEONS. 3 

CarRIERS.—Cock.—1, W. H. Mitchell, Moseley, Birmingham. 2, H. Yardley, 
Birmingham. Extra, F. Smith, Selly Oak, Birmingham. Local, L. Wren. 
he, E. Mayston, Diss (Dun); W. Massey, Spalding; F. W. Metcalf, Cambridge. 
¢, P.H. Jones; F. W. Metcalf. Hen.—l, F. Smith. 2, F. W. Metcalf. Extra, 
W. Massey. Local, L. Wren. /ic, P. H. Jones, Fulham; H. Yardley; F. W. 
Metcalf; W.H. Mitchell. (An} variety).—Chickens.—1, W. Massey. 2, W. B. 
Mitchell. Extra, F. Smith. Local, L. Wren. hc, W. Massey; F. W. Metcalf 
(2); L. Wren. c,J. Watts (Black). ' 

Pourenrs.—Cocks.—1, J. Walker, Newark. 2, W. Nottage, Northampton. Hen. 
—1,P.H. Jones. 2, W. Nottage. 

‘V'uMBLERS.—Short-faced.—l, J. Ford, Monkwell Street, London. 2, H. Yard- 
ley. hc, P. H. Jones (2); W.J. Woodhouse, West Winch, Lynn ; J. Ford. Any 
other Variety._1, W. J. Wooahouse (Baldheads). 2 and Local, Misses 5, and 
A. Wren (Yellow Beards). 

Bargs.—l, F. Smith. 2, P.H. Jones. Local, D. Bedford, Lowestoft. he, H. 
Cawood, Thorne; H. Yardley; P.H. Jones. c,E. Mayston. Chickens.—l, P. 
H. Jones. 2,J. Watts. Local, D. Bedford. hc, W. Massey; W. Nottage; P. 
H. Jones. c,J. Holmes, Lower Sydenham. n 

Fanrarts.—l, H. Yardley. 2, A.A. Vander Meersch, Perry Hill. Local, P. s. 


Worthington, Lowestoft. he, P. H. Jones; J. Walker. 
ANTWERPS.—1, W. H. Mitchell. 2, J. Watts. Local, D. Bedford. he, H. 
Yardley. 


AxY OTHER Vanrety.—1 and 2, P. H. Jones (Trumpeters and Jacobins). 
Extra 1, H. Lyon, Ipswich (Yellow Dragoons). Extra 2, A.A, Vander Meersch. 
Local, A. W. Wren (Yellow Dragoons). hc, H. Yardley; P. H. Jones (Magpies); 
W. Bearpark, Ainderby Steeple; C. Norman, Ipswich (White Trumpeters). 
c, B. Mayston (Black Runts); Hon. Mrs. Paget (Starlings and Spots); H. 
Yardley; E. M. L. Cocksedge, Bury St. Fdmunds (Archangels); W. Nottage 
(Whi e Dragoons and Blue Owls); A. W. Wren, Lowestoft (Yellow Dragoons); 


J. Watts (Swallows). 

SELLING Cxass.—], P. H. Jones (Fantails). 2, H. Yardley. Local, A.W. 
Wren (Yellow Dragoons). c, E. Mayston (White Dragoons); P. H. Jones 
(Barbs); W. Nottage; A. W. Wren (Yellow Dragoons); J. F, Loyersidge (Fan- 
tails); J. Ford (Carriers). 


JupcEs: Rey. T. L. Fellowes, Honingham Rectory, Norwich, and 
Mr. W. B. Tegetmeier. 


BARROW POULTRY SHOW. 


* Tue following are the awards made at this Show, held on January 
27th and 28th :-— 

GamE.—Cock.—Cup, W. Boycs, Beverley. 2 and 8, C. W. Brierley, Middletor, 
Manchester. lic, J. Frith, Chatsworth; J. H. Wilson, St. Bees. Cockercl.— 
Cup, J. Mason, Green Ayre, Lancaster. 2, J. H. Wilson. htc, W. Grice, Bootle. 
c, J. Wilson, Beckermont; J. Mashiter, Ulverston. Pullets.—1 and 2, C. W. 
Brierley. ic, W. Boulton, Dalton-in-Furness; W. R. Ormandy, Barrow; J. H. 
Wilson ; J. Mashiter. : 

Game.—Black-breasted and other Reds).—1, C. W. Brierley. 2, T. Mason, 
he, J. Hodgson, Sheffield; W. Boyes; J. Frith; J. H. Wilson. Duckwings and 
other Greys and Blues.—l, W. Boyes (Duckwings). 2, J. H. Wilson. | 
Frith (Duckwings); J. Mashiter; R. Casson, Ulverston. Any other Variely.— 
1, C. W. Brierley. 2. J. Frith. lc, fT. Mason (Pile). Pullets.—1, W. Boulton 
(Brown Red). 2, C. W. Brierley. ic, T. Mason. 3 ¥ 

Game BanraM.—Cock.—l, G. Hall, Kendal. 2,3. Mashiter. hc, J. R, Robin- 
son, Sunderland; W. Grice; J. Hunt, Barrow. 


he, J. 


a 


February 2, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


95 


SpanisH (Black),—1, C. W. Brierley. 2, H. Beldon. he, Burch & Boulter, 
Sheffield; J. T. Hudson, Ulverston; J. Thresh, Bradford. 

Dorxincs.—l, J. White, Warlaby, Northallerton (Grey). 2,S. H. Stott, Roch- 
dale. hc, R. D. Holt, Orrest Head. c, R. D. Holt; H. Beldon. 

Cocutn-Cuina.—Cinnamon and Buff—i, Mrs. Wilkin, Bootle. 2, J. Sichel, 
Timperley (Buff). he, T. Stretch, Ormskirk; W. Burnell (Buff): J. Sichel 
(Buff), Brown and Partridge.—1, J. White, Whitby, Wakefield (Partridge). 
2, E. Leech, Rechdale. he, T. Stretch (Partridge). White.—1 and 2, J. Sichel. 
he, J. Weeks, Bootle; E. Fearon (2). ¢, J. Cowman, Whitehaven, 

Brinua Poorra.—l, E. Leech. 2,J.Sichel. he, H. Lacy, Hebden Bridge; 
J. Cowman; H. Butler, Bradford; W. G. Mulligan; H. Beldon. 

Haneurcus.—Golden-pencilled.—l, H. Pickles, jun., Earby. 2, H. Beldon. 
Silver-pencilled—1 and 2, H. Pickles. jic, H.Beldon. ec, W. M. Mann, Kendal. 
Golden-spangled.—1, J. Ogden, Hollinwood. 2, H. Beldon. he, J. Buckley, 
Taunton, Ashton-under-Lyne. Silver-spangled.—1, Ashton & Booth, Mottram. 
2, A. Ainslie, Ulverston. hc, H. Beldon. 

Bantaus.—Game.—l, G. Hall. 2, J. W. Brockbank, Kirksanton. he, J. R. 
Robinson; J. Sichel; G. Maples, jun., Wavertree, Liverpool; J. Mashiter. 
¢, J. Whitham, Barrow. Any other Variety.—l, M. Leno (Laced). 2, J. Sichel 
(Pekin). he, H. Yardley; M. Leno (Laced); 8S. & R. Ashton, Mottram (Black); 
H. Beldon; H. Pickles, jun. (Black). 

he, E. Leech; J. Hunt. 


GEESE.—1, E. Leech. 2,8. H. Stott. 
son; T. C. Hunter, Ulverston. 

Ducks.— White Aylesbury, E. Leech. 2, S. H. Stott. he, E. Fearon; J. 
Hunt. Rowen—l,W.Gamon. 2.W.G.Mulliigan. he,A. Dickinson; G. Porter; 
J. White; S. H. Stott. Hast Indian.—l and he, S. Burn. 2, Rey. W. Sergeant- 
son. Any other Variety.—l, S. Burn. 2, C.W. Brierley. he, S. Burn; Rev. W. 
Sergeantson; M. Leno (Mandarin and Carolina): S. H. Stott (Carolina); W. 
Silvester (Carelina); H. B. Smith (Shieldrake and Carolinas). 

Any OTHER VarreTy.—l, H. Beldon. 2, J. Sichel (French). he, W.G. Mulligan 
(Scotch-Greys); Rev. W. Sergeantson, Acton Burnell (Black Hamburghs): N. 
J. Ridley, Newbury (Malay); H.:Pickles, jun. (Polands); W. Silvester, Sheftield 
(Polands); W. Gamon (Polish); Mrs. Wilkin (Houdans). 

SELLING CLAss.—l and 4, F. H. Green, Belfast (Brahmas). 2, H. Beldon, 
Goitstock. 3, W. Boulton (Brown Red). he, E. Wadham, Millwood. Dalton 
(Buff Cochins); E. Hall, Brimington, Chesterfield (Duckwings); J. Cowman 
(Brahma); W. Grice (Black Red Game); W.G. Mulligan, Springfield, Belfast 
(Spanish); M. Leno, Markyate Street (Light Brahma); W. Masland, Milverton 
(Cochin); C. W. Brierley; W. A. Burnell, Southwell, Notts; J. & J. Tyson, 
Barrow (Brown Red); T. Jackson, Birkenhead (Silver Polands); J. Mashiter 
(White Cochins); E. Fearon, Whitebayen; W. Gamen, Chester (Polish) (2). 
c, H. Andrews (Brahma Pootra), 


c, R. B. Hud- 


PIGEONS. 

CarRrers.—l and 2, E. Horner, Harewood, Leeds. he, H. Yardley, Birming. 
ham; J. Smith, Ulverston; R. Lomas, Dalton;. W. H. Mitchell; J. & W, 
Towerson, Egremont. 

Pourers.—l, B. Horner. 2,J.& W. Towerson. he, J-Smith; J. & W. Towerson. 

Tuseiers (Any variety).—l, J.& W. Towerson. 2, W. Boulton. hc, H. Beldon. 

Jacopnrns.—l, J. W. Edge, Birmingham. 2,J.&W.Towerson. hc, E. Horner. 

Anrwerps.—l, T. Cock, Lancaster. 2, H. Yardley. hc, W. Arkwright; T. 
Cock; E. Horner; W. H. Mitchell, Meseley, Birmingham (2). 

Banss.—l, H. Yardley. 2,E. Horner. hc. E. Moreton, Hindpool, Barrow. 

Tursits.—l, H. Yardley. 2,E.Horner. he, J. W. Edge. 

Owis.—l, H. Beldon. 2,3. Smith. he, J. Canby, Hindpool, Barrow; J. Chad- 
wick, Bolton; J. & W. Towerson. ; 

Fanrarts.—l, E. Horner. 2, J. W. Edge. hc, J.¥F. Loversidge, Newark; H. 
Beldon. 

Daacoons.—l, F. Graham, Birkenhead. 2, W. H. Mitchell. 
Aigburth, Liverpool; J. Chadwick ; E. Horner. 

TrumeETERS.—1, BE. Horner. 2, J. & W. Towerson. 
Beldon. ss 

Ronts.—l, J. Fisher, Barrow. 2 and he, H. Yardley. 

Any OTHER VaRIETy.—l, H. Beldon. 2, E. Horner. 


Smith (2). 
ae CANARIES. 
Brrtorn.—Yellow.—1 and he, J. Hunt. 2, W. Jones. c. J. N. Harrison. 


he, G. Goore, 
he, J. Smith (2); H. 


he, H. Yardley; J. 


Prepatp.—Yellow or Buff.—l1 and c, W. Jones. 2, W.J.Stewart (Buff). he,J. 
{Gold-spangled). he, J.N. Harrison. c, J. Bolton. 

GoupFincH.—1 and he, J.N. Harrison. 2, W. Arkwright. c, A. Ainslie. 
c,J. A. Richardson. 


Buf.—i, J. Hunt. 2, W.Crewdson. he, J. Moffatt. c,J.N. Harrison. 
Mouts.—l, W. J. Stewart. 2, W. Bradley. he, W. Arkwright. c, J.T. Mount. 
N. Harrison. u 
Lizarp.—Gold and Silver-spangled.—1, J. W. Martindale. 2, W. J. Stewart 
Common.— Yellow.—1 and he, J. Hill. 2, W. J. Stewart. c,J.S.Mount. Bug. 
—1, 2, he, and c, J. Hill. 
RaBeits.—1 and2, W. Arkwright, Sutton Scarsdale (White Buck and Doe). 
he, J. Boyle, jun., Blackburn (Himalayan Buck); J. A. Richardson, Lancaster. 
JupGss.—Poultry: Mr. E. Hewitt, Birmingham. Pigeons: Mr. S- 
Handley, Pendleton. Canaries: Mr. A. Benson, Whitehaven. 


COLCHESTER SHOW RABBIT PRIZES. 


In common with many others I was surprised to read Mr. M. Mil- 
lington’s letter in last week's number, in which he failed, as I am able 
to show, to prove that the prizes for Rabbits are wrongly arranged. 
Tn the first place, I am not afraid of contradiction if I say that the 
foreign varieties are at the present time more popular than the Lop- 
ears, as I can prove by the York Show itself. It is quite true that a 
sum of only £3 is given to Lops, and £9 to the six different varieties of 
fancy Rabbits, at Colchester, and even then Lops receive the greater 
share. I will analyse the prize list and entries of the York Show to 
prove that Mr. Millington cannot maintain that the Colchester prize- 
money is not fairly divided. In Classes 74 and 75 the value of prizes, 
including the cup, was £7 5s.; entries for both classes 23. Classes 
76, 77, and 78 had prizes value £8 15s., and only 22 entries. These 
fiye classes were for Lop-eared. Now, for the fancy variety classes ; 
there were three classes—79, 80, and 81, and £3 15s. and a silver 
medal as prizes, and yet there were 45 entries. Thus the Lop-ears 
had more than four-fifths of the amount offered for the eight classes, 
but still only an equal number of entries. 1n the Selling Class there 
were more Lop-ears than any other breed, thus proving that they are 
at a discount if compared with the other kinds, because they are ex- 
kibited for sale. 8 

I think the Colchester Committee has learnt a lesson by the York 
Show, and framed their schedule . Mr. Millington may 
think everything of Lops, and nothing of any other breed, but that is 
lo reason why they should not be encouraged. Everyone admits the 
success of the York Show, but even its Committee will, no doubi, 


make a fresh distribution of prizes at any future show. I cannot, and 
I write impartially, see how the Colchester schedule is inferior to the 
Portsmouth one; however, time will prove. Mr. Millington’s sugges- 
tion as to the formation of a co-operative Rabbit Club would entail 
too much trouble without affording any definite benefit to the Rabbit 


fancy.—D. P. Goon1ne, Colchester. 


THE MANAGEMENT OF BEES DURING SNOW. 


THERE is no time during the whole year that bees require 
more care than during winter. Although, comparatively speak- 
ing, it is a time of rest with the apiarian, his charges still must 
be looked after, their wants supplied, and means which ought to 
be prepared for every emergency during autumn applied for their 
preservation, as it is only by this care in winter that success 
in summer can be expected. As winter management has been 
so often described in these pages, it is not necessary to enter 
into details, and I will therefore confine myself to a few remarks 
on the preservation of bees during snow. Your correspondent 
‘““R. §.” very wisely considers shading the best means yet 
devised ; but even this plan is far from being entirely satisfac- 
tory, because shading will not reduce the temperature, which 
as a rule rises after snow, and causes the bees to seek an airing 
outside. When they do this, shade does more harm than good; 
it mars the bees wh2n returning to their hive, and very many 
fall to rise no more. The only time when bees are in danger 
of losing themselves in snow is from the end of January to the 
end of March. The worst time that we have to contend with 
is at the termination of a long frost when deep snow has been 
lying, which commonly occurs from the end of January to the 
middle of February; and when the thaw comes in a calm with in- 
sufficient wind to lift the snow, the bees, roused by the sudden 
rise of temperature, make a rush, and thousands fall on the 
still cold snow to perish. It is recommended in the ‘‘ Handy 
Book of Bees’’ to shut them in in time of snow; where this 
advice is taken it will prove sure destruction to the bees. Far 
better would it be to let them alone. 

It is, moreover, recommended in the same book to tame 
vicious bees by placing a ‘‘ scarecrow or potato bogle” in front 
of the hive. I cannot help remarking that this is far more like 
imagination than reality. The great Creator has made these 
our favourites much too perfect, and their senses, of which we 
have but a faint conception, far too acute, to be so deceived as 
to mistake a ‘‘ potato bogle’”’ fora man. Some people declare 
that it is not necessary to have any idea of the natural history 
of bees in order to manage them successfully. It is true that 
many keep and are very successful with bees who know very 
little about their habits and natural history; but apart from 
this, it is highly necessary, in the case of any animal whatever, 
to have a perfect knowledge of its natural history if we would 
cultivate it successfully. It is particularly desirable then 
during winter, and whilst snow is on the ground, to assist bees 
in accordance with their nature, and by so doing to preserve 
their liyes, which is then the great aim—not by shading, as 
that is only a partial remedy, neither by shutting them in, 
which means suffocation and death, but by ventilation. Have 
your hives so made that, whenever snow appears at a time 
when the days are getting long, the doorway can be instantly 
closed, and the hive ventilated according to the number of its 
inmates to such an extent that, instead of the temperature of 
the hive being raised it shall in fact be reduced, thus keeping 
the bees quiet and preventing any attempt to get out until the 
weather is suitable. This is the only plan that I have ever 
found successful, and I could give an account of its success 
extending over a series of many years; but, as it is easy to try, 
I would rather let the experiment speak for itself—A Lanarg- 
SHIRE BEE-KEEPER. 


ROOFING FELT AND TAR. 


I sec to state, in answer to ‘A NorTHUMBERLAND BEE- 
KEEPER,” that I have used both, and I did not see any harm 
result to the bees. The bee house once was coated when the 
weather was warm and the bees on the wing; at first they did 
not like the smell, and would hesitate a little, and then went 
in. I should recommend its being done in winter time, and 
not in warm weather, or else the bees would stick fast to the 
tar, or get their legs and wings smeared over from alighting on 
the painted part of the sides. The bee house I made holds 
three hives, with a passage out through the front. The roof, 
boarded and covered with felt, is sloping to the front, so as to 
give more room behind for manipulating ; the back is closed 


96 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 2, 1871. 


with a loose shutter without hinges, having two handles to lift 
it by, and is paintetd with gas tar.—J. R. F. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Books (C. H. B.).—We know of no work upon Game and Game Bantams 
exclusively. More relative information will be found by reference to the 
indexes of our back volumes than in any book hitherto published. (A 
Constant Subscriber).—Brent’s “Canary.” You can have it free by post 
if you enclose twenty postage stamps with your address. 


BristoL AND CLIFTON SHow.—Highly commended, William Perrin, 
Bristol, should have been Nantwich. 


Manay Prizes av NortHAMPTON.—“ The Committee of the North- 
ampton Poultry Show are deserving of the thanks of breeders and ad- 
mirers of Malays, for considerately giving them a separate class in the 
prize list. I shall be happy to subscribe with others towards a cup or 
sweepstakes, as a special prize for the best Malay cock, hatched in 1870, 
but my time is too much occupied to admit of correspondence in its 
behalf. I shall hopefully look forward to the prize lists of the principal 
shows of this year, trusting to find separate classes at most of them, for 
Polands, Black Hamburghs, and Malays.—A, G. Brooke, Shrawardine, 
Salop.’ 

PULLETS EATING THE Coor’s FEATHERS (A Sufferer).—Fowls, like many 
other bipeds, are apt scholars when the lesson is an evil one. One of the 
hens, being out of condition, has begun to pick, and the others, seeing 
blood, have followed her example. It is curious, but cocks of any breed 
will stand while the hens eat them, especially Spanish, and Dorking cocks 
will stand with hens pecking their combs on each side till the hens 
make a hole. You must immediately remove the cocks. Let all the 
peccant hens be well purged with castor oil, a table-spoonful every other 
day for three days. Then give turves of grass cut with plenty of mould, 
and, if you have any, some lettuce. We advise for birds that, being in 
confinement, have no access to grass. We have never known birds do it 
that were at full liberty. The cocks may be turned with the hens occa- 
sionally, and that is all that is really necessary. 


Foop For Swans (C. W. D.)—Much experience has taught us the hest 
food is the cheapest ; we therefore advise either oats or barley, the first 
for choice. Cygnets should always be fedin severe weather. The proper 
way to feed them is to put a small tub where they will see it directly, to 
cover the bottom with a sod of grass, this with oats, and then to cover 
the whole with water. Much waste is prevented, and it saves the food 
from the depredations of small birds. It is of course useless to put it 
anywhere but near the birds, as if uninterrupted it would soon be frozen. 
If refuse green food can be mixed with the oats so much the better. 


HeEn’s Lecs SpasmMED (M. B. D.).—The spring-halt you mention is a 
bad symptom in a fow], but it may exist for a long time without serious 
danger to health. We think constant meat-feeding injurious, and we 
believe if you do not discontinue it we shall often have you for a querist. 
We should do nothing beyond giving castor oil, a table-spoonful every 
alternate day for three days. 

TurKeEys (M. G.).—As the Peacock. One visit in the proper season to 
the cock is sufficient. 

WaitE DorkINGs (/. W.).—We consider the deaf ear almost unim- 
portant, but if we had to choose we would have it red. The white one 
will probably be transmitted to many of his offspring. The accident of 
haying one claw shorter than the other is of no consequence. It is an 
accident, as you say he has lost it. It is singular one of his descendants 
has the same. There is no fear of its being continued. We believe Mr. 
Martin’s address is Claines, near Worcester. 


BREEDING BLACK HAmBoureus (W. U.).—We advise the Spanish hen, 
if you have but one pen. If you are wise, you will have two and reverse 
the sexes. We say if you are wise, because you cannot breed perfect 
cocks and hens from the same parents. 


Ponanns’ CrEsTS Dirty (Aliquis).—There is little cause to fear dirt in 
fine weather. The best breeder we ever knew used in damp, dirty, and 
wet weather to keep the top-knots up and clean by putting indianrubber 
bands round them. The crests should never be washed unless the birds 
are going to a show. It should then be carefully done with a sponge, 
wetting only the outside of the feathers, wiping them dry, and putting 
the bird in soft straw. Top-knots should never be washed, if it can be 
avoided. The most ornamental Ducks are Carolinas and Mandarins. 
They may be had of Messrs. Baily, Mount Street, Grosvenor Square. We 
do not know their prices. 


Cocuin-CHINAs (Recent Subscriber).—Vulture hocks are long feathers 
growing from the thighs and projecting from the legs in a downward 
direction. Plucked hocks are those from which these feathers have been 
pulled. The vulture hock is a great disadvantage, and you are fortunate 
that your birds have it not. ‘They are a good weight, but might weigh 
more. Where they are carefully attended to they should make a pound 
in every month up to9 or 10 Ibs. Get rid of every bird that has any 
feathers protruding from the knee. 


WHITE FEATHERS IN COLOURED DorKEINGS (An Amateur).—If your 
Dorkings belong to the general Grey class, the white flights are not even 
a disadvantage. Your description is that of very good birds. You may 
exbjbit and safely breed from your pullets, They are not Silyer-Greys. 
These latter must not bave a white feather. Silver-Greys are birds of 
colour, and most difficult to get perfect. Grey may be of any colour 
except black and white. Dr. Campbell’s are Grey birds. A Silver-Grey 
cock must have a perfectly black breast and tail, without the suspicion 
of white, very light hackle and saddle, and steeled bar wing. Baily’s 
book on fowis deyotes a chapter to Dorkings. Itis the best time in the 
year to set Dorsings, and it would be no adyantage to have the house 
artificially warmed. You may leave the cock with ten hens, 


BrauMAs Liyina DouBLE-yoLEED Haas (C. H. S.).—A dose or two of 
castor oil to each of the Brahmas, say a table-spoonful every other night 
for a week, will put their secretions to rights, and cause two yolks to 
inhabit two eggs. If they continue dropping them from the perches, 
remove them; they must then lay on the ground. Is the rubbish to 
which they have access bricklayers’ rubbish? if not, give them some. 
We can give you no cure for feather-exting. Try to find which is the 
culprit and remoye her. If you can, let them out; they neyer do it when 


at liberty. No preparation is necessary to impart the brilliant tint to a 
Spanish comb. It is natural, and we have now cocks with combs of 
Startling brilliancy. We should never use egg as an outward application 
0 1owis. 


Unicomp Hive (An Amateur Bee-keeper).—We have forwarded your 
query to Mr. S. B. Fox, who hopes to reply in our next. 


DysEnTERY IN Bess (J. T. S.).—Shutting-up your bees and placing the 
skep with the board underneath, ‘on the mild part of 2 greenhouse 
flue,” though it may dry the board and warm the combs which are sup- 
posed to be frozen, will, it is to be feared, only aggravate the malady 
with which the bees are afflicted. Whether they are suffering from 
dysentery, or the complaint whieh Mr. Woodbury hypothetically named 
“dropsy,” cannot be determined from the description given; but in 
either case it is to be remembered, that the diseased bees are surcharged 
with fluid or feces, and consequently no cure can avail which does not 
make them part with their contents. It is very undesirable that they 
should do so within their hive, and whilst inclement weather lasts they 
cannot effect it outside in the open air. The cure for dysentery in winter, 
recommended by Dzierzon, will be found at page 475, of the ninth yol. 
of the Journal, and is as follows:—‘ The bees should be brought into a 
warm room with but one window, and that facing the south. The hive 
being placed in the sun a few feet from the window, its inhabitants are 
set in motion by a little food, either inserted within the hive or injected 
intoit. As the bees take wing and fly towards the window many empty 
themselves, and the rest will do so when they reach and rest on the 
window-sill. Here the brown feces must be sponged off as rapidly as 
they are ejected, lest bees soil themselves with them, and when all have 
had the required opportunity they wili joyfully re-enter their hive, if the 
entrance be brought close to them.” But one more convenient to put in 
practice, and which has been tried with benefit, is to wait for a mild 
sunny day when bees can with safety leave their homes. As soon as any 
are seen going abroad and returning, lift the skep from its resting-board 
(which will do no harm), and place it upon another that has been well 
warmed before the fire, and stimulate the bees to fiight by administering 
a small quantity of food. Whenthe board grows cold it may be replaced 
by the old one which has been cleaned and warmed, and if the process be 
continued for an hour or so, the lives of the best bees will be sayed, and 
a large majority of worthless ones got rid of. Those bees that cannot fly 
should be destroyed, their presence amongst healthy ones can do no 
good and may do much harm. I have sometimes thought if the skep 
were placed upon a thin board resting on heated sand, that the heat 
would be retained a long time, and render repeated changing of the floor- 
board unnecessary ; but as the board is liable to get soiled, the frequent 
changing of it is advantageous, and if this is attended to on the few fine 
days that occur at intervals during winter and spring, the hive, whether 
suffering from ‘dropsy” or dysentery, may ultimately master the 
complaint. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN, SQUARE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Darr, 9 AM. In THE Day. 
be Shade Tem-) Radiation d 
1s7l. | 3° o%| Hygrome- | Direc- | Temp. | perature. |Temperature| -3 
gare ter. tion of | of #Soil|- 2 aa | nee 
Jan, | S234 ind. | at 1 ft. y In ;_ On 
as | Dry.| Wet Max.| Min. | Sun. Grass. 
Inches.| deg. | de deg deg. | de; deg.| deg. | In. 
We. 25 | 30.054 | 30.3 | 29.5 N.E. 35.5 32.0 | 80.2 | 84.9 QT: _ 
Th. 26 | 30.083 | 29.8 | 28.4 N.E. 35.0 33.6 | 26.0 | 71.1 24.9 — 
Fri. 27 | 80.251 | 30.5 | 29.3 N. 84.8 34.4 | 25.4 | 60.8 | 248 _- 
Sat. 28 | 80.217 | 31.0 | 29.2 N. 84.2 83.8 | 27.2 | 45.0 | 25.3 _ 
Sun.29 | 80.197 | 82.8 | 30.6 N. 84.0 36.3 | 80.2 | 43.8 | 29.8 _ 
Mo. 30 | 80.184 | 30.8 | 30.5 | N.E. 84.5 32.9 | 30.4 | 88.9 | 30.2 | 0.012 
Tu. 81 | 80.260 | 30.4 | 29.4 E. 34,2 83.5 | 28,8 | 36.7 25.4 _ 
Means | 30.164 | 36.1 | 29.6 . 84.6 83.8 | 28.3 | 47.7 26.9 | 0.012 
REMARKS. 


25th._Fine morning; slight snow about noon; clear in evening about 7, 
cloudy afterwards. eae . 

26th.—Very fine bright frosty day; brilliant night. 

27th.—Fair ; cloudless at night. 

28th.—Dull and overcast throughout. 

29th.—Dull and overcast throughout. 

30th.—Overcast in morning; snow began about 11 A.m., and fell to a total 
depth of one-tenth of an inch. E 

81st.—Dull morning ; brighter in afternoon; broken clouds in evening 
snow still lying. 

A regular winter week, high barometer, northerly wind, and the mean 
temperature below freezing point. The 9 4.m. temperatures almost as 
uniform as last week, but 44° lower; the range in the week actually 
less, or only 10.9°—viz., 25.4° to 36.3°.—G. J. Symons. 


COYENT GARDEN MARKET.—Feprvary 1, 


TRADE is Somewhat brisker, Good dessert Pears are becoming more 
Scarce. There haye been heavy arrivals in the Potato market. 


FRUIT. 
8, d. 8. a s.d. 8. d 
APPlOS.ssseeesereet BlCVG 1 0 tO2 O| Mulborries....sses0+-10- O Otod O 
Apricots .d 0 0 O O| Nectarines.. ..doz 00 00 
Cherries « 00 00 6 0 10 0 
bushel 10 0 18 0 60 00 
i 00 #00 16 20 
do. 00 00 10 80 
00 00 40 66 
00 320 00 00 
AsO eG 00 60 
q 00 00 00 00 
Grapes, Hothouse.... lb. 4 0 § 0| Strawberries 600600 
Lemons,.... #100 6 0 lo 0 alnuts.. 00 We 
Melonsse eee 10 40 10 20 


February 9, 1971. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 97 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s | Clock Day 
Sie Oe. FEBRUARY 9—15, 1871. ture near London. |43 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets. | Age. | belong ote 
| Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. |m. h.| m. h.| mh, | m h Days. | Tye Sh| 
9 | TH | Meeting of Royal Society, 8 p.m. 45.3* | 30.9 8.1 17 27 af7 | Oaf5 | 56 af9 | 27af 9 LO Tee lta 27y)) 40 
10 F 44.9 | 30.1 | 37.5 16 25 7 DYES | Fea Cy el et) 20 | 14 28 41 
11 Ss 445 | 29.8 | 37.2 19 24°67 4 5] morn, 9 10 21 | 14 +29 42 
12 SUN | SpxaGEsrimA SUNDAY. 44.9 | 29.6 | 87.2 16 22 7 6 5185 0] 82 10 ¢ {14 28 43 
13 M [ral Meeting, 3 p.m. | 443 | 29.6 | 36.9 14 20% Saron| Goce ek By ali 93 | 14 27) 44 
14 Tu Royal Horticultural Society, Annual Gene- | 45.6 | 3).9 | 39.3 15 18 7/10 5/15 3) 389 11 24 | 14 25 45 
15 WwW Ditto Fruit, Floral, and General Meeting. 47.0 | 81.38 | 39.2 17 VGN Wel 12) 355 |S 29 ra | after 25 | 14 22 46 
i } 


From. observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 45.2°, and its night tempera- 


ture 30.3°. 


The greatest heat was 65°, on the 10th, 1831 » and the lowest cold zero, on the 13th, 1855. The greatest fall of rain was 0,52 inch. 


SETTING OF GRAPES. 


VOL R. PEARSON, page 509 of the last volume 
of this Journal, remarks that it would be 


are better growers of particular sorts than 
others ; thus at one place will be found a 
champion grower of Hamburghs, and at 
another a champion Muscat grower. I do 
not call myself either, nor do I grow Grapes 
on a very extensive scale. The tastes of 
our employers ought to be the first consideration—some 
like Muscat-flavoured, others Hamburgh Grapes. 

Muscats being our favourite Grape, I have endeavoured 
to grow them as well as I could, and with a little success. 
The difficulty I first had to surmount was the setting; this 
is easily done if attention is paid to drawing a dry hand 
over that part of the hunch which is in flower, and repeat- 
ing the operation two or three times a-day until every 
berry is set. But there are Grapes which task the dry- 
hand system ; two, Mr. Pearson mentions—viz., Canon Hall 
Muscat and Black Morocco. I will name another—Royal 
Vineyard. The cause of these three not setting is that 
“the anthers curl back at the moment the flower opens;” 
the ends always seem wet. 

I have set Black Morocco and Royal Vineyard to a 
berry. Canon Hall I have not grown. My method is as 
follows. The hand is charged with pollen from the Muscat 
of Alexandria in flower at the same time. The hand must 
be dried at every application, and drawn gently over that 
part of the bunch in flower. Repeat this twice or thrice 
a-day until every berry is set. I have set these two so 
well that it became no easy matter to thin the berries. 

Iam of the same opinion as Mr. Douglas, that no one 
should decry a Grape or any other fruit until it has hada 
fair trial; this I have given the Royal Vineyard, and 
I have written in these pages about its bad setting and 
other bad qualities, such as liability to spotting, blotching, 
&e. I have tried it as a pot Vine, but cannot speak of 
its goodness when so grown; but I can say it is a good 
keeper as respects what remains of the bunches, and some 
like the flavour. On the whole it ought to have a place. 
I am to retain it. 

Muscat Hamburgh [Black Muscat of Alexandria] is a 
splendid Grape when grafted on the Black Hamburgh. 
I have had bunches of it weighing 33 lbs. I have not 
had it so black as Lady Downe’s or Alicante, but in flavour 
it is far superior to either. Of Muscat of Alexandria I 
set every berry. Ihave had bunches 4 lbs. in weight, and 
berries 1 inch in diameter. Bowood Muscat is so much 
like it that I cannot see any difference, except that it sets 
more freely. 

Ido not place the slightest stress on preserving either 
a dry or wet atmosphere, apart from the dry-hand system. 


When my Grapes are in flower the paths and troughs are | 
As I grow different sorts in one house, | 


not full of water. 

my Hamburghs are all set by the time the Muscats are 

in flower, the only difference in the treatment is that the 
No. 515.—Vou. XX., NEw SERIES. 


interesting if cultivators would state their | 
treatment of Grapes, as he observes some | 


Muscats are at the warmest end, less air being given to 
them throughout; no front air is given until they com- 
mence colouring. 

As I have already remarked I am not an extensive 
grower, but I have had early Grapes in April and late 
ones in February from two houses; perhaps it will not 
be out of place here to name the sorts I grow. Those in 
the early house are Muscat of Alexandria, Bowood Muscat, 
Muscat Hamburgh, Duchess of Buccleuch, Foster’s White 
Seedling, and Black Hamburgh. These are planted in- 
side. J grew last year in pots four on the back wall—viz., 
one Black Frontignan and three Black Hamburgh; be- 
tween those in front, standing on the hot-water pipes, were 
two Lady Downe’s and two Alicante Vines. The Black 
Frontignan was first ripe—on the 24th of April. Those 
on the back wall were well started in front before being 
placed against the back wall. In the late house, planted 
inside, are Muscat of Alexandria at the warmest end, _ 
Muscat Hamburgh, Golden Champion (not fruited yet), 
Madresfield Court (not fruited), Lady Downe’s, Mrs. 
Pince’s (not fruited), Royal Vineyard, White Lady Downe’s 
(not fruited), and in pots four Black Frontignan and two 
Royal Vineyard. 

Icut my last Muscat of Alexandria on January 23rd, 
also Royal Vineyard at the same time. I have eight 
bunches of Lady Downe’s fit to cut now (January 25th) ; 
they look as if they would hang a month longer, but I 
will cut them with a good bit of wood, and if so cut and 
hung in any dry place they will keep until used up. : 

If a few notes on the management of borders, &c., will 
be of any use to an amateur who may want to have Grapes 
all the year through, or nearly so, with two houses, I will 
write again. [We hope you will.—Eps ]—C. M. McCrow, 
Nash Court, Faversham. 


PLANT CULTURE IN GLASS HOUSES. 


Few sights in a garden are more attractive than a well- 
erown collection of healthy symmetrical pot plants; whether 
they are seen in a costly conservatory, or a plain unpre- 
tending structure, they are equally attractive and enjoyable. 
My purpose is not to enter upon the cultural details of any 
particular class, but rather to treat of the management of 
pot plants generally. : 

The first and most important point is to start with healthy 
plants of a sturdy, compact growth after their kind, and to 
strive to maintain them in a flourishing condition as long 
as may be desirable. The means to this end comprise 
clean flower-pots, suitable soil in a thoroughly sound and 
sweet condition, and a proper temperature in a suitable 
house. It may be well to take these simple conditions 
more in detail. No flower-pot ought ever to be used till it 
is washed clean; if this wholesome rule were attended to 
more strictly, unsightly pots encrusted with filth would 
not be so common, and the plants would not only look all 
the better, but be decidedly healthier. It is a good prac- 
tice to have a couple of tubs of water standing near the 
potting-bench, one for soaking the pots in for a day or tro 
| after any plants are shaken out of them, and the other for 
No, 1167.—Vou. XLY., OLD SERIES, 


98 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ February 9, 1871. 


rinsing them after they are washed, so as to have them quite 
clean. Itis highly important to have plenty of shed room, so 
that a portion of all the sorts of soil likely to be called for may 
be stored close at hand in the potting shed ; a series of spaces 
with boarded partitions are best, and they present a very neat 
appearance. Thus there might be a space for silver sand, one 
for loam, one or two for peat, one for leaf mould, another for 
manure so decayed as to bea rich goil, another for charcoal, 
another for broken tiles, and so forth. In all these a full 
supply should always be kept. No practice can be worse than 
to go to the soil yard for soil just as it is wanted for the plants, 
for it is there exposed to all the vicissitudes of the weather; 
dried by the sun, and saturated by the rain, it can never be 
used with any degree of certainty. 

Extremes of temperature are hurtful to all plants in a greater 
or less degree; when plants are subjected continuously to even 
afew degrees more heat than their nature requires, the effects 
are soon visible in the attenuated growth and delicate, or rather 
sickly, condition which they present, and which is even more 
hurtful than the stunted growth and discoloured foliage in- 
duced by the other extreme, yet from which a more favourable 
temperature will in most instances recall them. Take, for 
instance, a Pine Apple plant, which will, perhaps, bear more 
ill-treatment than any other; when subjected to an extremely 
low temperature its foliage becomes of a pale sickly hue, and 
many of its roots perish; but after such a trying ordeal a few 
weeks of fair treatment effect a marvellous change in its ap- 
pearance, and from being a miserable, unsightly object, it be- 
comes a flourishing plant, such is its wonderful vitality. Bui 
though this favourable change may be produced by judicious 
treatment, such faulty culture deserves no praise; the fruit of 
a Pine Apple, the flowers of any plant, so badly treated, in- 
variably fail to develope that high degree of excellence usually 
visible in the crop of those plants whose vigour has sustained 
no check at any time. & 

In considering what kind of structure is the best for plant 
culture, the mind recalls many an old, almost flat-roofed house, 
with paint and putty perished, abundance of cracked glass, and 
immense heavy rafters, where plant-growing beset with diffi- 
culties has been practised, and yet a tolerable degree of ex- 
cellence attained. The very best kind of plant house is a light 
airy span-roof, not too lofty, with suitable staging, and with a 
thorough command of plenty of heat and fresh air. With such 
advantages plant-growing is an easy and pleasurable affair, 
the abundance of light on all sides tending materially to pro- 
mote an even and symmetrical growth in every part of a plant, 
so that the constant shifting and turning about become un- 
necessary. Oneof the most important principles in plant cul- 
ture is cleanliness; given plants with clean foliage, clean pots, 
sweet soil, a pure atmosphere, tempered to suit the plant’s 
nature, the woodwork, glass, and every part of the house clean, 
and success becomes almost a matter of course. Knowing the 
importance of all this, one cannot but wonder at the miserable 
style of plant-growing which is met with but too often. A host 
of plants crowded together in undersized pots, their long 
drawn-up shoots producing a few poor, puny flowers, are just 
a miserable set of caricatures, two-thirds of which would be 
better on the rubbish-heap, and the man who has brought to- 
gether such a collection would be much more in his proper 
place with a fork turning that heap than inside a plant house. 
As Mr. Keane has told us, ‘it is better to grow a few plants 
well than ‘many badly,” for a few well-chosen plants brought 
by skilful treatment to a high state of excellence, must afford 
more real pleasure to all who see them, than the most ex- 
tensive collection could ever do when spoilt by bad treatment 
and the absence of all those important conditions which I haye 
endeavoured to enumerate.—Hpwarp Lucruurst. 


AMERICAN POTATOES. 


Ir is quite pleasant to see the truth told at last by ‘D., 
Deal,’ shout these wretched impostors. My experience 
entirely coincides with his. In 1869 I first planted the 
“‘Harly”’(!) Rose and Goodrich Potatoes. I was much struck 
with the vigorous habit of the former, it seemed so distinct 
and promising. In the month of July of that year I had some 
taken up for cooking, with some Ashleafs growing alongside. 
They were as large as these, but watery, nasty, and uneatable. 
In September I again tried them; the tubers were large and 
good-looking, but on being cooked with great care they were 
found to be harsh and dry, with a hard centre, and a flayour 
perfectly original, but so unpleasant—nasty according to our 


} 


cook—that I gaye them up for that year. The misnamed 
Early Goodrich came in with the Regents, but instead of being 
like that sort in flavour, the tubers were earthy, with a peculiar, 
unearthly, and most disagreeable flavour. The past season I 
again planted Early Rose in a deep loamy soil resting on sand, 
a soilin which Ashleafs are fit for the Queen. It was again 
tried in July, and found, as in 1869, quite valueless. In October 
some fine handsome tubers were steamed in one of Barlow’s 
steamers, and again yesterday; they were dry and harsh—not 
floury like our English sorts, and most disagreeable. 

I hear that the other American sorts are of the same dis- 
agreeable flayour as those I have mentioned. I saw last year 
a lengthened eulogium on the Harly Rose Potato in one of our 
periodicals, and afterwards found it in the catalogue of a 
London seedsman. So the climate or the soil affects these 
Yankee products, for unless they were different in America, 
the Yankees are too sharp to give a dollar a-pound, as they 
did for the Early Rose.—Tuos. Rivers. 


DOYENNE D'ALENCON versus EASTER BEURRE 


” PEAR. 


REMARKABLY like each other in appearance are these two 
Pears. ‘The first-named is, indeed, in general considered as a 
mere synonym of the latter variety, and is given so in almost 
every fruit list. Place a few specimens of Doyenné d’Alencon 
before the best pomologist and he will at once say Haster 
Beurré. It is, however, quite distinct and much superior, and 
that is saying a great deal after the lavish praises that some 
writers have of late bestowed on the French Doyenné d’Hiyer, 
our Easter Beurré. Easter Beurré is good if well ripened, 
which is frequently not the case. It only succeeds well in 
certain favoured situations and localities. It generally requires 
a wall, aud is then frequently pastey and hard-cored. If there 
is one locality in this country better suited for Pears than 
another, it is assuredly the Royal Gardens of Frogmore, and it 
is just there that the striking difference between Easter Beurré 
and Doyenné d’Alencon is made manifest. Whilst visiting 
these noble gardens in autumn, Mr. Rose and Mr. Powell 
kindly directed my attention to the two Pears. Looking at 
them in the mass (several bushels), the distinction was plainly 
seen. In colour of skin the Doyenné d’Alencon is more yellow 
than the Easter Beurré, which is generally of a greenish 
tinge. In the shape, the difference is slight but distinctive. 
The eye of the Easter Beurré is set in a flat or somewhat 
hollowed depression, the end being rather broad. The Doyenné 
d’Alencon has the fruit drawing more to a point towards the 
eye, like a Williams’s Bon Chrétien, the eye set without any 
depression; when a number of fruits are examined this dis- 
tinction is very plain. In flesh the Doyenné d’Alencon is 
yellow, the Easter Beurré white. The wood, the buds, the 
growth, and habit of the trees are also different, the former 
being more yellow, pointed, and pendulous than the latter. The 
most important distinction, however, is that the Doyenné 
a@’Alencon is of finer quality than the Haster Beurré when 
grown under the same circumstances, as manifested at Frog- 
more. Grown as an open standard at Frogmore, the Doyenné 
d’Alencon produces splendid crops of fruit of the finest quality, 
which supply the dessert for the royal tables during the winter 
months, whilst Easter Beurzé is, on the contrary, very often 
unpresentable excepting for its size. Here, then, is an im- 
portant matter for our fruit cultivators ; we find in Doyenné 
d’Alencon a late Pear of the highest quality, suited for open 
standard cultivation, and we shall have to thank Mr. Rose for 
almost a new introduction and a welcome one.—B. 


IMPROVING THE GENERA VIOLA AND 
DIGITALIS. 


Tux finest improvement of a British plant by the hand of 
the florist, I think, must be considered to be the Pansy or 
Heartsease. In suitable soils no other British plant gives such 
a variety of rich tints; it rivals in texture and gorgeous colour- 
ing the vegetable denizens of the sunny south, and hybridises 
freely with kindred species and varieties, as Viola lutea and 
purpurea, which may be said to be the ancestors of this lovely 
family. I can see no reason why other species of this exten- 
sive family may not be improved in size of flower, in vigour of 
growth, and in richness of colour as well as in fragrance. I 
am not aware of anyone having taken the Violas in hand in 
earnest with a view to improving them. The varieties of Viola 


February 9, 1871. ] 


canina (sylvatica) and hirta are charming pot plants, and do 
not ‘‘ fog off’? so much under culture as Viola odorata and its 
varieties sometimes do. Once let us get a start with the best 
forms of Viola sylvatica and hirta, and depend upon it there 
will be produced endless variety. All we want is a good break 
from the normal condition of the plant, and by following up 
artificial fertilisation and judicious selection important results 
must be attained. 

As an instance of what may be done by judicious selection, 
I may mention that some years ago I undertook to improve 
Digitalis purpurea, the stately Foxglove, through seeing a 
variety that accidentally grew in a garden where I was gardener. 
The variety that took my fancy was a white one very lightly 
ticked or mottled in the throat with purple. Contiguous to 
this plant grew a white-flowered one and the common purple ; 
they seem to have fertilised each other freely, bees, too, being 
very fond of them. Among the progeny were several varieties, 
and in four years I had produced forty varieties of Digitalis 
purpurea, some of them most beautiful, and many far superior 
to the Digitalis gloxinieflora now sold at the nurseries. In 
moving to another situation I unfortunately left them behind, 
and so lost them; one in particular had a large campanulate- 
shaped flower more than twice the size of the ordinary Fox- 
glove, evenly lobed all round, with a white ground, the inside 
being spotted and blotched much in the way of an herbaceous 
Caleeolaria, the blooms not pendent, but standing out at right 
angles from the stem. At that time I knew not theimportance 
of these results, and I may say twenty years will elapse from 
that date before another such collection can be produced. I 
have mentioned this instance as one amongst many that must 
occur in the gardening world. All novelties should be carefully 
looked after, for many a floral gem has been lost through care- 
lessness.—W. H., The Gardens, Cromwell House. 


NOTES MADE DURING A TOUR IN IRELAND. 
No. 5. 
THE CHIEF SECRETARY’S, PHGNIX PARK. 

Tuts is another of the Government establishments, and in 
some respects superior to the Vice-Regal Lodge ; the grounds, 
if not quite so extensive, are equally beautiful, and the whole 
establishment is yery secluded and complete within itself, 
although in the middle of a public park. There is in the 
grounds a curiously misshapen tree, the trunk resembling a 
man standing on the crown of his head with his feet in the air. 
There are also some fine examples of Arbutus and Sweet Bays 
—beautiful evergreens where the climate is mild enough for 
them, likewise a fine Cupressus funebris, very elegant and 
beautiful in its changing character, and in the kitchen garden 
are four very large pyramidal specimens of Cupressus semper- 
virens. This is a plant which in our race after new things is 
beginning to suffer neglect, and such is the fate of all. Nothing 
is fashionable but novelty. It is, however, as a plant-growing 
establishment that the Chief Secretary’s has been so justly 
celebrated, and well the present gardener, Mr. Bowen, although 
2 young man, upholds its reputation. Many of the plants here 
are such ag would have done the producer credit at an exhibition 
at Chiswick in its palmiest days. 

Beginning with the conservatory, this is a large, lofty, 
elegant structure adjoining the house; it is at times used also 
for theatrical assemblies, and well adapted it must be for that 
purpose. We do not find many occupants at the end of sum- 
mer, except very large Acacias, Cordylines, Grevilleas, Palms, 
&e., all in good condition; when decked up, however, with the 
fine plants to be seen elsewhere, it would look charming. 
There is a group of extremely convenient half-span pits, where 
Mr. Bowen cultivates his plants with great success. The 
specimens of Alocasias, Crotons angustifolium and yariegatum 
pictum, Marantas, Anthuriums, Medinilla, Stephanotis, &c., 
were very fine, showing high-class cultivation. In another 
lean-to house there were some good New Holland plants, such 
as Pimeleas, Genetyllis, Hriostemons, Rhynchospermum, and 
Correas. It is quite a treat to find these plants cared for now, 
the whole interest seeming to have centred, as regards plant- 
growing, amongst ornamental-foliaged plants. 

On the north side of the kitchen gardens we enter a range, 
250 feet in length, of rather lofty lean-to half-curvilinear 
houses. This is a fine range, and gives an air of great im- 
portance to the whole place. These houses are principally 
devoted to Vines, which, although old, seemed to do well, with 
plants underneath. There were some fine large specimen 
Palms, as Areca Baueri, Latania rubra, and Cycas reyoluta. I 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


99 


noticed also an interesting variegated sport of the Lastrea 
Filix-max, pretty enough, but scarcely desirable. One division 
is fitted with a bed or pit in the centre, in which the fine- 
foliaged stove plants in pots are plunged and thriving well; 
then against the back wall, which is formed with a sort of 
arched recesses, there is another narrow bed or border, in 
which Musa Cayendishii was succeeding remarkably well. I 
do not recollect ever having seen Musas, not even at Sion, co 
thriving or giving such a great result from so small a space. 
The bunches of the fruit, and the fruits individually, were 
very large. Musas having such enormous leaves necessarily 
require a considerable space. In general they are planted in 
the middle of a house and occupy it. Here, however, Mr. 
Bowen, haying them in these recesses against the back wall, 
forces them in little space, and fruits them with great success. 

In the front of this long range of houses runs a parallel 
walk, the borders on each side of which are planted in ribbon 
fashion with Pelargoniums, Calceolarias, and other plants, 
along with dark-leaved Beet. The line of Beet, taken by itself, 
was superb, as, indeed, were many other vegetables just along- 
side. The pyramidal Pear trees near here looked well, were 
full of fine fruit, and evidently well cared for. Some Damson 
trees were enormously laden, and on the walls there was a great 
crop of Reine Claude de Bavay Plum, a most useful variety. 
I noticed also fine crops of that famed Irish Apple the Ecklin- 
ville Seedling and of King of the Pippins, and in the fruitroom, 
@ good one, were some fine examples of Beurré d’Amanlis 
and Louise Bonne of Jersey Pears. As regards out-buildings, 
sheds, and every convenience of that sort, few places can equal 
the Chief Secretary’s, and in Mr. Bowen is found an able gar- 
dener. 

WHITEFIELD LODGE, PHCNIX PARK. 

This is the residence of the Ranger, Mr. C. McDonald, truly 
a charming spot, situated to the north, and near the west side of 
this great park. The place is but a few acres in extent, yet it 
is rich in Conifers. It is the private policy of the Ranger or 
Park Superintendent. Here the late Mr. Wilkie, who for so 
many years held that office, gathered together and planted for 
trial specimens of all the most beautiful Conifers and other 
trees, and now Mr. McDonald, who has so worthily succeeded 
him, has the pleasure of observing them in all their beauty ; 
and seeing them as they are to be seen here one cannot fail to 
admire them. It was Mr. Wilkie’s fine and cultivated taste 
which led him to plant his private grounds with a collection of 
rare trees and shrubs, instead of the present popular gewgaws 
of ribbon borders and flower beds. The one is a never-ending 
source of pleasure and beauty, the others, although beautiful at 
times, a never-ending source of expense. 

Whitefield Lodge is pretty and ornamental, not so large as it 
seems, but convenient. It looks well from the park in its nest 
of Conifers, the deep sombre green of which contrasts so 
forcibly with the pale deciduous leafage. Why are there not 
more Conifers planted in this park, seeing that they succeed so 
well, and present such a marked feature in the landscape? I 
have to speak here of no design in planting or laying out. 
They are simply dotted about here and there singly and in 
groups, on a smooth, well-kept grassy lawn. Some have been 
crowded, and so have injured one another ; this Mr. McDonald 
is gradually remedying by cutting down some and removing 
others. Many of the specimens are superb, and exceedingly 
beautiful. I can only notice a few of the more prominent. 
First, then, Cupressus macrocarpa, of which there are two very 
large, spreading, handsome trees. These, whether by design or 
accident, are fully greater in breadth than in height. What a 
pity that this fine rapid-growing Conifer should be so frequently 
injured by frost! In most places north of the latitude of 
London, all the large trees of this were killed in 1866. Wel- 
lingtonias seem to do well here, one specimen measured up- 
wards of 25 feet. Thujopsis dolabrata is here quite hardy ; 
there is a fine example of the variegated form 5 feet high. 
Cedrus atlantica, the most handsome amongst the Cedars, is 
doing well; so, too, is Cedrus Deodara. Of Abies Pinsapo there 
is an extremely handsome tree about 20 feet high ; Abies cepha- 
lonica is 30 feet ; Abies orientalis, 20 fect, very handsome; Abies 
lasiocarpa, very handsome, 6 feet. I also noticed Abies 
Morinda, Abies nobilis, and Abies Douglasii, which did not 
seem so happy as it is to be seen in the north of Scotland. Of 
the Cupressus tribe, besides C. macrocarpa there is here one 
of the loveliest specimens of C. nutkaensis, or Thujopsis 
borealis, which it is possible to contemplate; always graceful 
as this plant is, the example here, some 15 feet in height, is 
surpassingly so. It is in character and habit of growth per- 


100 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ February 9, 1871. 


fectly unique and distinct, being of a very graceful weeping | 
form. It is extremely worthy of introduction as a distinct | 
form. There are also a fine pyramidal example of Cupressus 
funebris, about 18 feet high, a fine old C. sempervirens, and 
C. torulosa. Forming a fine central object stands a splendid 
plant of Taxus Doyastoni, a fine weeping form, with a great 
flat head upwards of 20 feet in diameter. I noticed fine lines 
of Trish Yews, always very effective, Golden Yews, Chinese | 
Janipers, Thuja gigantea, extremely useful and fast-growing, 
and many more Conifers seldom to be met with. Here also is 
a fine little example of Quercus glabra bearing acorns, a very 
beautiful evergreen shrub, also some large Weeping Ash trees. 
The whole place is replete with fine trees, and full of interest. 
It was with no small degree of pleasure that I inspected the 
plant treasures here along with my friend Mr. McDonald, and 
his wife, and have to thank the latter especially for her warm 
hospitality. With Mr. McDonald himself the gardening public | 
in this country and in Ireland are already pretty familiar, he | 
haying been gardener at Woodstock, Kilkenny, for many years, 
where he so altered and improved the character of the place as 
to earn the most warm and grateful thanks of his employers, | 
and the public approbation of the whole country. It was his 
merits and talents as displayed at Woodstock, that led to his 
being selected for the high and honourable post he now holds 
as Chief Ranger of the Phoenix Park. A better selection could 
scarcely haye been made. If Ireland had all its servants like 
him, there would be far less disaffection and more contentment 
amongst its people. But the day is coming, Erin-go-bragh !—B. 


CEANOTHUS AZUREUS AS A CLIMBER. 


I po not think amateur gardeners avail themselves, as they 
might do, at their villa and suburban residences, of the very 
many beautiful climbing plants for decorative purposes. Some 
years ago I was travelling through South Devon in the autumnal 
months, and was struck by the sight of a very charming climb- 
ing plant at least 10 feet high, which was growing against the 
side of a house near Torquay. It was literally covered with a 
mass of light blue flowers. I had never seen anything like it 
before, for it appeared to be an unknown plant in the midland 
counties in which I then resided. Upon my reaching home I 
sent a description of it to your valuable Journal, with an inquiry 
as to its name, and on learning that it was Ceanothus azureus 
I at once procured a strong healthy specimen, which I planted 
against a wall with a southern aspect, giving it a slight protec- 
tion in the winter, and most amply it repaid my trouble, and 
soon covered a large space with its beautiful racemes of sky- 
blue flowers in August and September. Unfortunately, for 
want of better protection, in the very severe winter of 1860-61 
it was cut down by the frost. I would strongly recommend any 
of your readers who reside in the warmer parts of England to 
give it a trial, and Iam sure they will thank me for the sug- 
gestion. Against the side of a house or a wall with a southern 
aspect it will be found invaluable. It should be covered with 
matting in severe weather. Independently of its flowers, its 
beautiful deep green leaves are in themselves an ornament. 

I never pass a cottage in the country with bare red walls but 
I long to cover them with some of our many beautiful and 
hardy climbers. How many a country house which now looks 
bleak and desolate, and often, consequently, remains tenantless, 
might be made cheerful and picturesque by the outlay of a few 
shillings in the purchase and planting some of the best hardy 
climbers, taking care, of course, that they are properly tended 
and naiied when once they begin to run up.—Horrator. 


Deatu or Mr, Mann.—Our readers will much regret to learn 
that Mr. Mann, the esteemed Superintendent of Hyde Park, 
died on Saturday last. We believe his health had been failing 
for some months. : 


Boranic GARrDENS.—A recent number of L’Illustration Horti- 
cole contains an interesting paper on the Botanic Gardens of 
Kew, by M. André, prefaced by some details regarding similar 
establishments in Europe. From this it appears that the 
first was established at Padua in 1545, followed by that of 
Pisa; those of Leyden and Leipzig date respectively 1577 and 
1579. The Montpellier garden was founded in 1593, that of 


Giessen in 1605, of Strasburg in 1620, of Altorf in 1625, and of 
Jena in 1629. The Jardin des Plantes was established in 1626, 
and the Upsal Garden in 1627; that of Madrid dates from 
1763, and that of Coimbra from 1773. At the end of the! 


eighteenth century, according to Gesner, more than 1600 kin- 
dred establishments existed in Europe. England comes late 
in the list, the Oxford Garden not haying been founded until 
1632, and long remaining the only one in the kingdom.— 
(Nature.) 


HYACINTH PRIZES. 


I au very pleased to see the letter of ‘‘ D., Deal,’ in your 
Journal, in which he makes mention of the poor encourage- 
ment given to the exhibitors of Hyacinths this spring. I wrote 
a letter last autumn on the subject, but it seems to have been 
disregarded by the Council. I wish some one would make a stir 
in this matter, and let us have a really good spring show. 

‘““D., Deal,’? mentions also that he thinks the prize for 
eighteen white Hyacinths is a mistake, and so do I, and every 
one else I have spoken to on the subject. I have a very good 
collection of Hyacinths now growing, but though I bave 
eighteen white ones, I have only sixteen distinct, so I shall be 
shut out from that entry. Besides, as only 20s. are offered in 
the amateur class for six Hyacinths, I doubt very much 
whether I shall exhibit at all. This I much regret, as having a 
large collection, and having been successful for the last three 
years, I think I stand a very good chance. Ii the Royal Hor- 
ticultural Society feel so disinclined to encourage the growth of 
these beautiful bulbs, could not we subscribe together and 
offer a prize ourselves? I would willingly do allin my power.— 
AMATEUR. 


THE WINTER IN LINCOLNSHIRE, AND ITS 
EFFECTS ON VEGETATION. 


THe winter in central Lincolnshire has been the most severe 
and continuous we have had for some years. In point of ex- 
treme cold it has not reached so low by several degrees as the 
figures given in other counties further south. But a word as 
to thermometers. It is possible the great differences in tem- 
perature recorded at different places may be more differences of 
instruments than of actual weather or cold. The instruments 
vary in registering cold about as much as clocks and watches 
in registering time. Both require correcting by authority to 
render them accurate and reliable. The names of makers, 
however great their reputation may be, are not sufficient gua- 
rantee for the instrument’s truthfulness. I have thermometers 
stamped with the names of the most celebrated makers, and 
on the faith of such names I felt myself safely pledged as to 
their accuracy, at least some of them, for I could not fail to 
notice their differences. However, on their being tested by 
corrected and authoritative readings at Kew, 1 found how far 
out I was in my reckonings. The instrument I had vainly 
taken as my standard was in every part of the scale 2° too low, 
and in one particular point as much as 5° too low. Out of ten 
instruments examined only one was exactly correct, and it 
is a little shabby-looking thing without any maker’s name 
attached. All the others varied from the standard, and all 
varied also in different parts of the scale of each. So much 
for names and appearances, and the importance of adopting 
the best means of testing to insure exactitude and confidence 


in figures. 
To resume. The winter proper commenced on December 
21st. Although we had had some frosts previously, it came 


upon us suddenly, for the morning of the 24th brought with 
it 25° of frost. From the beginning of the frost to January 
28th, thirty-eight nights, the thermometer has been, with the 
exception of only two nights, below freezing point, while for 
thirteen consecutive days the maximum did not reach the same 
figure. The greatest maximum reached since the frost set in 
was 48°, and we have only had one day anything spring-like— 
namely, January 17th. For six nights during the frost the 
thermometer registered oyer 20°, with several more approach- 
ing this figure. The lowest figure reached was 6° on the morn- 
ing of January Ist, or 26° of frost. Thus we had, no doubt, 
an aggregate intensity and continuation of frost, calculated to 
inflict very serious injury on vegetation ; and, unquestionably, 
the injury would have been serious had not the means happily 
brought with it the most effectual antidote—the snow. Nothing 
could have compensated for the complete protective covering it 
has afforded, nothing could have come more opportunely ; its 
value is beyond calculation; it has been, in fact, the gardener’s 
and farmer’s friend, and has stuck to him in his difliculties as 
a good friend should. It has never been over 4} inches deep, 
yet for fifteen days it never wasted a particle. Its good-keeping 
properties were due to the very dull weather which has charac- 


February 9, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 101 


4erised the frost. For days together the sun was hardly seen ; 
we have only had one really bright day since the year com- 
menced, and only two half-bright ones, all the rest being 
decidedly dull. Another feature favourable to vegetation has 
been a striking absence of wind. Old millers say that they 
have not for fifty years experienced such a still calm winter. 
‘There has been no blowing of the snow in wreaths, but it has 
‘dain quietly, doing its protective work. It has also been a 
singularly dry frost. Since December 21st to the time of 
writing (January 28th) the rain gauge, and this includes the 
melting of the snow, has only received 0.59, or a little more 
than half an inch of rain. There was a slight break on the 
Ssh and 9th of January, when the first snow melted and the 
green pastures told of its protective care. Two days afterwards 
we had 20° of frost, but our friend the snow was again to the 
rescue with a covering of 24 inches. This melted on the 14th, 
and since then, although we have had frost every night, it has 
not been severe. 

Taking a look round the gardens we must, with all the 
winter’s drawbacks, and considering its length and intensity, 
regard it as a fortunate one. Plantations of Cabbages, Let- 
tuces, and Cauliflowers, which must, but for the snow, have 
been nearly all killed, are almost as green and fresh as ever; 
while Celery, Parsley, autumn-sown annuals, &c., seem little the 
worse of the ordeal they have passed through. It is different 
with things above the sncwline. Broccoli which was !eft stand- 
dng is nearly all killed, while that which was laid down is 
nearly all save]. Bcussels Sprouts are partially injured, and 
so are all the Kales, except Cottagers’ Kale. One thing has 
surprised me, and that is the hardiness of Asparagus Kale— 
‘Couye Tronchuda of some perhaps, yet a hardy type of it, as 
it has, with the exception of Cottagers’ Kale above noticed, 
suifered less than any of the Cabbage tribe, thus possessing 
two important qualities—hardiness and excellence. 

As to shrubs, it is almost premature to speak definitely, but 
little or no injury is at present noticeable. Some Roses are 
certainly injured, but I do not apprehend the loss is serious. 
{n the field the root crops are rather severely cut up, not being 
well covered with snow, but the breadths of Wheat have as yet 
received no injury whatever. Fortune has thus come out of 
misfortune, and taking a broad view of what has been and 
what might have been, I am constrained to sum up the frost 
as a fortunate one. It has had at least this advantage of 
bringing out the sympathies of the rich towards the poor, and 
making the hard times easier. One good result we are reckon- 
ing on from the protracted cold, and that is the retarding of 
the fruit blossoms and tiding them over the spring frosts. The 
trees look hopeful, and a good fruit year is anticipated. But 
is the winter over ? 

P.S.—The weather changed on February 2nd. The thaw 
is steady, appears general, and is accompanied with rain.— 
J. Wricut, Gardener to Hon. A. L. Melville. 


SLOW-COMBUSTION STOVE. 


Many inquirers have applied for information relative to the 
stove described at page 69, and, as might be supposed, the 
game queries are put, with some variations, by all. Space will 
be scconpmised by covering the sum of the questions in one 
reply. 

The chimney ought to descend. It must not rise, for the 
arbonic acid produced by burning charcoal is heavier than the 
air when cold, and so will not ascend in a chimney when it has 
dost its heat. In the article in the number of January 26th it 
is explained why the chimney should have a slight descent. 
The end of it farthest from the stove is best placed about 1 foot 
or 15 inches lower than the throttle. Charcoal is never so well 
made but that it contains hydrogenous compounds which form 
water during combustion, and this drips out of the descending 
chimney when the combustion is yery slow. It is another 
reason for adopting this disposition of the flue. Coke will not 
answer. It contains a large quantity (about 12 per cent.) of 
earthy matter, and will not, in consequence, commence to burn 
until a high temperature is reached. It is difficult to light, 
and is not at all the fuel to use when slow combustion with a 
comparatively low temperature is required. The cast-iron plug 
used in Joyce’s stove would answer perfectly in lieu of the gas 
pipe. The chimney need not be of zine. Zine does not oxidise, 
and is very readily made into pipes, for this reason I chose it. 
The fire is best lighted by placing some charcoal in an old 
Saucepan, well perforated in the bottom, upon the fire. When 
the charcoal is burning up it can be safely carried to the stove 


upon a shovel or slate, &c., to prevent dropping, and poured 
into the stove, which can be filled up as far as required imme- 
diately. My stove was made by Mr. Groom, of College Street, 
Camden Town, for 12s. 

Of the price of fuel I can only give my own experience. 
Mine was bought in Litchfield Street, Covent Garden. Six 
sacks, each containing about 4200 cubic inches, were sent eight 
miles to my house for 15s. At the same time, however, a 
similar quantity was delivered to a neighbouring friend. Sup- 
posing this to be a fair price, the cost of heating can be arrived 
at thus:—Not more than would fill the stove to the depth 
of 1 foot would be required in a severe frost during one 
night. The diameter of the stove being 6 inches, the area of 
the cross section would be=6 inches x 6 inches x.7854. 
This multiplied by 12, depth in inches, gives rather less than 
540 inches, not quite the twelfth of a sack—cost about 2s. 4d. 
Ihave had fire to keep out damp, frost, &c., and sometimes 
continued it when not needed, and my consumption this winter 
has been five sacks nearly ; about 12s. 

One correspondent asks why his gas pipe will not answer in 
cold weather. All gases hold a certain quantity of water in 
solution; more when warm, less when cold. The gas pipe 
exposed chills the gas, and the water held by it when it left 
the metre is condensed upon the inside of the pipe in the form 
of dew. This collecting soon fills the pipe in its lowest bend, 
then freezes, and the supply is cut off. The only cure is to 
have a pipe with a continuous fall to the greenhouse, and fix 
there a fall pipe to receive the water, which can be drawn off 
at intervals.—F. Cursuire, A.C.P. 


WEATHER PREDICTIONS. 


I ran I cannot endorse the opinion put forth by your corre- 
spondent, ‘‘ AmarguR, Cirencester,” about the weather-predic- 
tion theory referred to at page 85 being always correct. The 
basis of this theory I take to be that when the first seven 
months of the year are dry, so that the rainfall for that period 
is less than 10 inches, a severe winter is likely to follow. 
Farther, it was predicted by the gentleman who promulgated 
the theory that the present winter would probably be a severe 
one, the prediction appearing early enough in the autumn to 
insure its author every credit for not waiting for the event and 
then recording the prophecy. Applying the theory to former 
years here, I may say that there have been only two seasons 
during the last sixteen years that the rainfall of the first seven 
months of the year—i.c., from January to July, both inclusive, 
has been below 10 inches, but there has been one in which 
exactly that quantity fell, and one in which there were 10.23 
inches, and one case is added of an opposite character. The 
rainfall of the various years given beneath is for the first 
seven months alluded tc, 


: aay 3 

Now, taking the winter of 1857-58, I find the following notice 
of it made: Autumn very fine, winter dry, spring dull. 

Taking the ensuing winter 1858-59, the remarks made are: 
Autumn dry and fine, winter mild and dry, spring medium. 

For 1864 I find recorded: Autumn mild but wet, winter wet 
and cold, spring fine. 

In 1868 a mild, wet autumn was followed by a winter of like 
character, and an early spring. 

1870 is too fresh in memory to require comment, but one or 
two instances where a hard winter has followed a season the 
reverse of that predicted may be given. 

1860-61: Autumn wet but open till the middle of December, 
when some very severe weather set in, followed by a favourable 
Spring. 

1866-67: Autumn very mild, winter exceedingly severe, 
Spring late. 

The above being all at variance with the theory, show the 
uncertainty of weather predictions.—J. Rozson. 


Tae Errects of THE WinTER IN Norroux.—A thermo- 
Meter on a north wall registered on the morning of December 
24th, 4° Fahrenheit, and at 12 o’clock at night, 3°; on the 
morning of the 25th it was at 5°. There was a heavy fall of 
snow on both days. Several Roses are killed, Laurustinus ig 
killed to the ground, common Laurels very much injured, 
Deodars and Pinus Hdgariana very much browned. I am 
afraid some of the Pinuses are very much injured; they scarcely 


102 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 9, 1871. 


show it yet. A plant of Maréchal Niel Rose against the south 
front of the Hall, Iam afraid is killed; it was slightly protected. 
—E. SENDALL, Barningham Park, Hanworth, Norfolk. 


THE CHISWICK GARDEN OF THE ROYAL 
HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 


On Tuesday next the Royal Horticultural Society holds its 
Annual General Meeting for the purpose of electing a new 
Council and office-bearers for the ensuing year, when the 
Fellows also will be made acquainted with the condition of the 
Society, and will have an opportunity of discussing matters 
with respect to its future management and arrangements. It 
would be well for Fellows, therefore, who are interested in the 
Society’s welfare to attend the meeting and support the Council 
in their good work, or, if necessary, to unsparingly condemn 
it. From all outward appearances, as far as I have been able 
to judge, Ihave good reason to anticipate a very favourable 
report and a more pleasant balance-sheet than usual. I have 
faith in the present Council and office-bearers that they will 
not needlessly plunge the Society into debt; in fact their special 
mission appears to be to save the Society from the utter collapse 
which seemed to be threatening it last year. Ihope and believe 
that the worst times of the Society are now past, and that the 


present season, 1871, will be the commencement of a brighter | 


era for the Royal Horticultural Society than it has yet seen. 
There is something, however, besides squaring accounts and 
making two ends meet. The Society was. incorporated for the 
promotion of horticulture. This is the only legitimate aim 
and object of the Society. For a time this end was faithfully 
pursued, and immense haye been the benefits derived by hor- 
ticulture from the labours of the Horticultural Society in their 
experimental garden at Chiswick. There is no need to enlarge 


on this point, as Chiswick and the good it has done to horti- | 


culture are of world-wide renown. But can the same be said 
of the doings of the present Society? What portion of the 
vast income of this great Society is being devoted to the pure 
pursuit of horticulture? I scarcely dare to ask. 
this in the name of horticulture. As a horticulturist I do not 


Yet I ask | 


forget that at the last Annual Meeting of the Society one of | 


the most unwise proposals that ever emanated from a managing 
body was brought forward—that relating to the giving-up of 
our Chiswick Garden. Urgently as the sacrifice was advocated 
as necessary for the very existence of the Society, happily 
Chiswick yet remains to us—Chiswick yet remains for horti- 


culture as the garden of the Royal Horticultural Society. Itis | 20 3 
greatly altered, it is true—reduced in size, shorn of its fine | With sand, and apply warm water to half an inch above the 


arboretum and most of its ornamental portions; but as now 
being remodelled it will prove far more useful as a great expe- 
zimental garden than it has been for many years, if sufficient 
funds only be allowed for that purpose. 

For the Society to give up Chiswick would be to give up all 
that it possesses of the most useful. Chiswick has to contri- 
bute even to the glorification of South Kensington. Without 
Chiswick or some other equally suitable garden—and where 
could that be found ?—South Kensington could not exist. All 
the plants and flowers which are used for the decoration of 
South Kensington are reared and nurtured at, and forwarded 
from, the Chiswick Garden. Has it ever occurred to the 
Council to inquire how much such a supply of plants and 
flowers would cost, supposing they had to be procured elsewhere ? 
I never see any mention of this as put down to the credit of 
Chiswick, which in all fairness it should be. Quoting now 
from official statements, I find that in the years 1868 and 
1869 there were each year sent up to Kensington over 50,000 
plants, which at a very low estimate would represent a value 
of £1200. That is what South Kensington would have to dis- 
burse supposing they had to be purchased from any nursery- 
man, and it is extremely doubtful if anyone could be found to 
supply the same quality of plants for anything like that sum. 
Chiswick also provides, and supplies to the Fellows, every year 
about 10,000 or 12,000 plants, besides many thousand cuttings 
of fruit trees, &c., from its magnificent collections, as well as 
about 160,000 packets of seeds, which may be, as some of the 
grumblers observe, of little account, yet by a great many they 
are appreciated, and they represent a considerable amount of 
value. These plants, cuttings, seeds, &c., which are supplied 
to the Fellows represent a value of at least £500. In addition 
to this Chiswick hands over in hard cash, as the receipts for 
the sale of fruit, &c., an annual average of between £500 and 
£600, which gives us, therefore, a yearly return of something 


like £2250 from the Chiswick Garden (and that, too, indepen- 
dently of the value or cost of any experiments that may be 
conducted, or reports and general information supplied to the 
Fellows and to horticulture), equal to the total expenditure on 
the entire garden. Chiswick, then, as I haye shown, clearly 
pays its way without the subscription money of a single Fellow: 
and yet in the face of all this it was proposed to give Chiswick 
up, as there were not sufticient funds to maintain it! 

Chiswick remains—at least about 13 acres of it, which are 
now being laid out in most admirable style by Mr. Barron. 
When the works now in progress are completed, and the con- 
templated arrangements carried out, Chiswick will be more 
complete and better fitted as a great experimental horticultural 
garden than it has beenforsome time. One of the most useful 
works of the Horticultural Society was the publication of its 
‘‘Fruit Catalogue,” and perhaps the best collection of iruits 
yet exists in the Chiswick garden. It is gratifying to learn 
that this is to be maintained, and that the attention of the 
Society is to be turned strongly in this direction in the classifi- 
cation, description, and elimination of our fruits, in which there 
is at present much confusion. The maintenance of a collec- 
tion of our fruit trees true to name appears to me to be one of 
the Society’s most important duties. It is one of the’ bene- 
fits which are keenly appreciated by nurserymen, who can 
depend upon getting their stock true. All fruits should be 
grown in the garden, proved, described, retained if worthy, if 
not, discarded at once. I cannot enter here, however, into 
what is the duty of the Society, or what might be done at 
Chiswick. The Society has now in its Fruit, Floral, and Scien- 
tifie Committees such able bodies of men, that it only wants the 
wherewith and it could be done. A great deal might be done, 
yet it would be unwise to attempt too much. What is done at 
all in the way of horticultural experiment ought to be done 
well, and no restriction as to cost and care ought to interfere, 
otherwise the trial may be abortive. Sufficient means and dis- 
cretion ought to be allowed the manager to conduct in the best 
possible manner whatever is attempted, so that the desired 
end may be obtained. Two-thirds of Chiswick having now 
been given up, surely the one-third can be maintained respect- 
ably. I ask the Council for this in the name of honticultnre ; 
I ask them for this as trustees of all great horticultural in- 
terests.—F.R.H.S. 


VERBENA CUTTINGS. 


I rare off cuttings or side shoots in the second week oi Jaly, 
and, aiter pinching out the bud or flower, insert them into pans 


sand. I place them in a closed frame with no shading, and 
take every precaution to apply three times a-day a little warm 
water, if the sun is unobscured and bright, to prevent their 
drooping. In nine days the pans will be filled with roots. 
When this is the case I immediately proceed to pot them oi, 
putting five in a 3-inch pot, and replace them in the same 
frame as before, shading and keeping them close for three days. 
I then increase the amount of air and decrease the shading, 
not forgetting with my thumb and finger to stop or pinch to 
eyery third joint. I well harden them off before winter. In 
this way I never fail to secure a good supply of Verbenas. I 
have at present on the average thirty-five cuttings from each 
five cuttings of last autumn in the 3-inch pots.—J. P 

[There are many ways of attaining the same object, but we 
do not see the particular propriety of using warm water to. 
cuttings in a cold pit in July; we would rather wait a few days 
longer for the rooting. As tothe potting afterwards there can 
be no objection, quite the reverse; but many must haye these 
plants in abundance, and yet not find room for the potting. 
The writer, to whose statement you allude, has had no trouble 
with Verbenas, either with or withont potting, and therefore 
your plan, however successful, does not throw any light on the 
cause of the disease. We are reminded of the time when the 
black-spot leprosy appeared in many places among Calceolarias.. 
There were numerous statements as to how these plants were 
managed successfully, and many prided themselves on their 
own skill and treatment until the disease came upon them, 
and they were forced to part altogether with some fayourite 
yarieties. Just so in the case of the Cucumber disease—some 
of the best Cucumber-growers made light of it; while others 
equally distinguished gave us the epitome of their practice, 
with the side hint that if such practice were closely followed 
there would be nothing seen of the disease. But as if to 
teach us how little we know, we may state that some of these 


February 9, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


103 


yery men for several years have not been able to keep their 
Cucumber plants from the disease, though the plants seem 
to be healthy and vigorous enough at first. Some of these men 
hhaye been distinguished growers of Cucumbers for thirty or 
more years, and now they are obliged to confess themselves 
eompletely beaten. Another man adopting the same practice, 
and only a short distance off, has never yet seen a symptom of 
the disease. In the case of the Verbenas to which we referred, 
something might be owing to the dry summer and the inability 
to water; but the cuttings struck well enough, and it was after 
they seemed well established, though the plants were small, 
that they began to give way, first at the point, and then down- 
wards, until there was no life left. Though there might be 
something tending to disease in the cutfings, we do not think 
that, or anything in the management, wholly accounts for the 
result. It is not pleasant to acknowledge ignorance, but it 
is often the best and surest step towards gaining valuable 
knowledge.—R. F.] 


DOUBLE-FLOWERED PELARGONIUMS AS 
; BEDDERS. 

I wave great pleasure in replying to Mr. McCrow’s inquiries (see 
page 63), but fear my answer will not be so agreeable to him as he 
‘vould like, my experience of double-flowered Pelargoniums on the whole 
aot being satisfactory; nevertheless, it may be quite as important to 
make it known as if it had been more successful. 

In 1869 I planted two circular beds, each 10 feet in diameter, with 
the only two kinds I had then in sufficient quantity—viz., Gloire de 
“Nancy and Madame Lemoine, and judging from what I had seen of 
them the year before, I calculated they would turn out rank growers ; 
but as the bed had that spring been heavily cropped with Forget-me- 
not, I thought the partially exhausted state in which it was would 
check the growth of the Geraniums—indeed, it was a mass of roots 
and quite dry when turned up—and as they had to be planted out of 
eutting-pots or boxes without any ball, I feared they would die if 
placed unassisted in soil in such a condition, I therefore, at planting, 
put a little good soil around the roots of each, and after giving some 
water left them to their fate. They all grew on quite strongly enough, 
but the flowers were never so numerous as to make the beds conspicuous, 
as Geranium beds ought to be, and the season being moister than 
last year, very few perfect heads were produced. The wet settling 
in the centre of the truss, decay set in long before it ought to have 
done, and a bad appearance was the result. Nevertheless, as I had 
several other kinds last year, and as a good bloom of a double Geranium 
is of much service for bouquet-making and similar purposes, I planted 
out some more, and the season being dry they succeeded much better, 
producing more flowers, and these up to September were less liable to 
decay, but after some showery days in the early part of that month, 
coupled with the longer dewy nights that followed, perfect blooms soon 
disappeared, otherwise they were much better last year (1870), than 
the year before. Still the liability of the central portions of each 
lower to decay is a defect in double flowers not easily surmounted. 
‘Varieties not so close-headed might be better, and I still hope they will 
prove useful. Perhaps the best position for double Geraniums is a 
yase ; their tendency to gross growth is there effectually checked, and 
their elevated position enables them to shake off sooner ihan if they 
svere on the ground the moisture which causes the decay of the flowers ; 
-some we had in that position last year were much admired. 

Mr. McCrow is quite right in saying plunging Geraniums in their 
pots in the beds is not a new plan, for I have seen it practised quite 
thirty years ago, only the purpose then was different from that which 
Mr. McCrow mentions. At that time they were plunged in their 
pots in June, so as to be readily taken up again in the same way in 
October, but I have seen single ones often enough planted out in their 
pots, but their roots have a perverse tendency to find their way through 
the bottom of the pot, thus defeating the object, for they grow ram- 
pantly enough then. When a number of plants in pots are plunged 
together, the roots of some getting through, and those of others not, 
there results an irregularity of growth more unsatisfactory than when 
all the plants are strong, so that on the whole planting in poor scil is 
preferable. 

In reference to the decay of the central pips or portions of Geranium 
flowers, I may further remarkithat the Nosegay class of single Gera- 
niums are also more liable to this failing than those with broad petals. 
Last summer this was conspicuous here, for while such kinds as 
‘Cybister, Waltham Seedling, Stella, and Duchess of Sutherland might 
at one time be called the pride of the garden; Punch, Crystal Palace 
peach and some others far outshone them at the end of the season. 
—J. Rogson. 


AMATEURS BEWARE. 


I HAve before me the “‘ Garden Oracle” for 1871, which is to me a 
new publication. It contains a great many useful tables, if they can 
be relied on. Im looking oyer these tables I was particularly attracted 
by one headed, ‘‘ Seed required for a garden of one acre.” ‘This list 
4s begun with Peas 36 quarts! What gardener in his right mind 
would ever think of ordering 36 quarts of Peas for a garden of one 


acre? or if he did, where would he find room to sow them if he had 
anything else in his garden at all? And what amateur could afford, 
or would like to afford, such an expensive seed bill for one acre of 
garden? I consider that nearly all the quantities named are greatly 
in excess, but the most flagrant error in the list is ‘“‘Sweet and Pot 
herbs 6 lbs.” Does the editor of the ‘“‘ Garden Oracle” mean that 
the whole acre is to be sown with sweet and pot herbs? if so, I hope 
whoever tries it will be well-flavoured. To satisfy my curiosity I 
summed up the amount such an order would come to from the prices 
of Messrs. Veitch & Sons. I did not select any particular sorts, but 
took an average of prices, where there was enough variation to allow 
me todoso. Peas I priced at 1s. 6d. per quart, which gives £2 14s. 
for that one article; sweet and pot herbs 3d. per packet, or 1s. per 
oz., then 6l1bs. at 1s. per oz. would be £4 16s. Herbs for ever! 
The sum total of the list I make out to be £14 16s. 

How long will writers of books and calendars be allowed to issue 
such lists as these to deceive the inexperienced amateur whom they 
profess to aid and assist? Practical gardeners know better, and are 
not so apt to be misled, but no doubt it is very difficult for amateurs, 
especially those who are for the first time about to try their hand at 
gardening, to make a suitable selection, either in quality or quantity. 
They will sit for a whole evening in the midst of catalogues and seed 
lists, studying the name of this and the price of that, till their brains 
get in a whirl, and they fly back as a last resource-on some list of 
‘“‘Seed required for one acre of garden,” only to find out the error 
they have committed when the day of reckoning arrives. I experienced 
the same difficulty in selecting seeds when I first commenced garden- 
ing on my own account, and had I then sent to my employer a bill of 
£29 12s. for seeds for a kitchen garden of two acres, I should not be 
sitting here to-night to tell the tale—G. S. 


DINNER-TABLE DECORATION.—No. 1. 


No small degree of interest was manifested some years ago 
when prizes were offered at the Royal Horticultural Society’s 
Shows for the best arrangement of flowers for the dinner-table, 
and the interest evinced was increased when other societies took 
the matter up, and manufacturers furnished designs for stands 
suitable for the flowers or fruits employed. As a consequence, 
great importance became attached to that part of the show 
where the dinner-table stands were exhibited, and comments 
in accordance with the ideas of the inspectors were varied, but 
in general the class of stands called March’s stands received 
the most attention, and became for a time the standard by 
which others were jadged. I ought, perhaps, to have observed, 
that prior to this prizes had been offered for collections of 
plants either in flower or not, that conformed to a certain size 
and could be made available for table decoration; but those 
exhibited certainly fell short of meeting the requirements of 
the time, hence the necessity for flower stands. At succeeding 
exhibitions the competition in dinner-table decorations was con- 
tinued, and with increasing interest, ladies of the highest rank 
being amongst the competitors, and by dezrees greater diversity 
was introduced into the stands prepared for the purpose, in- 
cluding some scarcely elevated from the table, the latter class 
taking many fanciful forms and many different names, while 
in conjunction with them might occasionally be noticed a stand 
of greater height. 

As the viands are, as a rule, no longer placed in bulk on the 
tables of the great, the space at command for ornament has 
been much increased. Happily for the gardener or whoever 
has to carry out the decoration, the fashion still remains of 
covering the table with a white cloth, and nothing can possibly 
show-off to greater advantage the masses of foliage, or it may 
be high-coloured flowers, and at shows where designs for dinner- 
table decorations are exhibited, the white-cloth base is in- 
variably present. Were it not also always so on the dinner- 
table, there would often be a difficulty in supplying in mid- 
winter a sufficient quantity of flowers that would look well 
upon a background ef another colour, for the white affords 
scope for the display of almost everything that grows, but 
more especially of foliage of compound growth, to which it 
imparts an embroidered appearance. I must not, however, 
dwell longer on this point, but will proceed with some of the 
modes of furnishing flowers and foliage so as to produce the 
best effect as a whole. 

Many years ago, when dinner-table decorations first attracted 
public attention, I ventured to suggest that every description 
of ornament that intervened between the countenance of one 
person and another at table was bad; in other words that 
nothing should be elevated more than 14 inches from the table- 
cloth, nor, if suspended, should it hang lower than 24 inches 
from the table, thus leaving a clear space of 10 inches for one 
person to see another. I find there are many converts to my 
views ; even some of the stands assume to secure this, especially 


104 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ February 9, 187L 


those of the March pattern, which have @ small cup for flowers 
on the top of a single glass rod proceeding from a pan of 
flowers on the table, but it usually happens that the pendant 
flowers so essential to the appearance of the upper basin occupy 
the line of view I wish to keep clear. However, others must 
determine whether or not the beauties of such things counter- 
balance their disadvantages; but it is certain that many orna- 
mental stands do interfere with this line in a greater degree 
than those alluded to, and some in themselves are highly orna- 
mental. I may here observe, that the most costly are by no 
means the most effective, silver and other metals seldom look- 
ing so well as plain glass when brought in conjunction with 
flowers and foliage, and carved work and ornament on metals 
are worse than lost when partially screened by the foliage, 
the plain parts alone looking well. I know much disappoint- 
ment has resulted from this, and at exhibitions the costly 
articles of plate, though creditably set out with flowers, &c., 
have often been beaten by more common-looking stands of 
plain white glass. Perhaps, however, when a silver stand 
takes the form of an epergne, its richness and costliness may 
attract attention, but the floral display must not be overdone, 
and the fault of a great many such contrivances is, that the 
bowl for flowers is much too large, necessitating an unwieldy 
and unbecoming mass; but of late years there has been great 
diversity of designs, some being of glass with small baskets of 
the same material suspended from them in which to place 
flowers, and some are formed of china with sculptured figures, 
but I confess having a dislike to them, and in general I would 
give the preference to glass. 

Although more might be said about the class of ornaments 
which are elevated a foot or upwards from the table, I will pass 
on to those of a dwarfer form, not but that there are many pretty 
tall designs, but as those which are of less height afford still 
greater diversity, and, what is of more importance, opportuni- 
ties for an infinite diversity of design at a very small cost, and 
with an effect as pleasing as the other, I have the greater con- 
fidence in recommending it, and having had as much practical 
experience of the working of the affair as most people, I speak 
with the more assurance. 

In the first place I consider that for a good display of floral 
beauty, or in its place that of foliage, on the table, the table itself 
ought to be wide—certainly not less than 5 feet, and if 1 foot 
more 80 much the better. The tables I have had most to deal 
with are between the two measurements given. Assuming the 
table to be lighted by candlesticks placed upon it, these are 
generally placed in a line down the centre, and say about 3 feet 
apart, and intermediate between these a stand of flowers, or it 
may be a plant, is often placed, while, possibly, some piece 
of plate or other ornament occupies the centre of the table, 
and the dessert dishes are placed about midway between the 
outer edge and the middle. The understanding being that the 
dinner is to be served @ la Russe, a considerable portion of the 
tablecloth is available for ornamentation, and various are the 


modes in which this may be done. When a numberof visitors 
are likely to remain for a week or more ata time it is advisable 
to change the design every day, and this may be done by 
adopting some of the means that will be described below, none 
of them being expensive; at all events great diversity may be 
secured at little more than the cost of preparing the materials 
at the moment they are wanted, and these at most country 
places are at command. I will therefore assume that the 
dessert dishes occupy positions about 18 inches apart along 
Joth sides of the table. We frequently make use of a set 
of troughs of zinc about 2 inches wide and about % inch 
deep, and made in a half-cireular form, so that when two are 
placed together they form a perfect circle or ring. These 
troughs usually have the sides painted green (but I am not 
sure but some other colour would do as well), and being filled 
with sand are dressed with such flowers as are at command. 
Early in the summer Roses are often used when plentiful, 
later in the season the flower beds yield Geraniums, &c., and 
in autumn Chrysanthemums. In all these instances it is ad- 
visable, before putting in the flowers, to dress the edges—that 
is, to fix some kind of foliage in the sand so as to hide the 
edges of the trough in a neat and becoming manner, yet with- 
out proceeding too far. All descriptions of foliage are not 
adapted for this purpose; the leaves of Roses answer very 
-Well, and those of Geraniums are not amiss. In winter we 
are often obliged to pick out suitable leaves of Ivy, as a 
leaf that sticks out at right angles does not look well; only 
such as lap over are suitable. Ferns, however pretty else- 
where, cannot well be worked in here. Sticking in the flowers 


is an easier matter, and I would certainly not advise more than 
one kind to be used, or at most two, while only one kind of 
foliage is wanted. To those inexperienced in such matters I 
may say that flowers of a blue, purple, or violet colour do not 
look well by candlelight, while scarlet, crimson, yellow, and 
white are very effective, and most star-shaped flowers, as Cine- 
rarias, look well. A good proportion of green is also advan- 
tageous, especially when white or yellow flowers prevail, and 
these colours, when having a green border between them and 
the tablecloth, look better than most others. As flowers are 
very scarce in winter, it is often advisable to make the most 
of those which are to he had, and, having two or three sets 
of troughs, we plant one entirely with Selaginella denticulata 
some time before it is wanted, placing it on a hotbed or other 
medium affording bottom heat, in order that the Lycopod may 
make sufficient growth before it is wanted, and we then bring 
out that set in place of the made-up one, and its appearance 
on the white tablecloth is, perhaps, more pleasing than the 
floral arrangement. The overhanging sprigs are generally 
sufficiently numerous to hide the edge of the trough, and they 
show their beautiful configuration to the best possible advan- 
tage against the white background. Sometimes it has been 
thought advisable to stick in a row of light-coloured Pompon 
Chrysanthemum flowers along the centre, like a row of beads or 
buttons, but I am not sure that this is any improvement; it 
certainly destroys the belief that a living plant only is before 
you; and whether the floral display compensates for this or 
not I leave others to determine. At all events if flowers are to 
be used let them be only of one kind and one colour. 

It will be seen that the troughs, being all semicircular (al- 
though of two sizes so as to meet any irregularity that may 
occur), are capable of being placed in a great number of forms, 
but one of the most pleasing is a series of scollops all around 
the tables, enclosing a dessert dish or something of that kind ; 
perhaps a wider scollop may be wanted at each end, or it may 
sometimes happen that the troughs do not exactly touch each 
other in all places, but a little extra dressing will make up the 
difference, and to meet this difficulty we have a number of 
straight short troughs which may be worked in, but we seldom 
require them, either the one size of circle or the other suffic- 
ing for our purpose. When it is advisable to work the semi- 
circles into a sort of serpentine form these short lengths come 
in handy, likewise when a square or a straight line is desirable ; 
they are also useful to unite the curves, but in general the 
latter do their work well, and are capable of being worked into 
circles surrounding each object in the centre, or it may be at 
the sides ; in fact, they can be arranged in several ways which 
will suggest themselves to the decorator. 

In addition to the curved troughs alluded to, we have also 
sets of straight ones to form a straight bordering around the 
table; these are of the same description as the others, and are 
planted or dressed in the same way. They are from 1 to 2 feet 
long, with curved corner pieces. Generally they are placed all 
round at about 14 inches from the outer edge of the table, so az 
to leave room for the plates and other requirements of the 
company. Some admire them more than they do the curved 
ones, and they come in well as a change. There are, however, 
other modes of dressing besides those in which the trays ars 
used, and sometimes very simple applications of very common 
things are better than more costly contrivances. Those I shall 
describe are mostly of this description, and I would inyite 
opinions on them; at the same time the advocates of lofty 
stands for flowers, &c., will see that the contrivances above 
described do not in any way prevent such being used, neither 
do those which are to follow, excepting in one case where the 
novelty of the arrangement seems to forbid anything high in- 
tervening. 

Where a long round of dinner parties has to be provided for, 
and that perhaps in winter, especially where bouquet-stands 
have to be daily made up for the drawing-room, and now 
and then tall stands for the dinner-table, the drain upon the 
flowers for these purposes leaves but few for what may bs 
called flat-table decoration; consequently foliage alone, or 
relieved with berries, has frequently to be adopted. Here there 
is scope for great diversity of design, although the materials 
for the purpose ought to consist of small foliage only, as the 
extreme width of the figuring ought not to exceed 2 inches, 
and that without cutting-in any of the leaves, as is often 
done in preparing letters and other things of the kind for church 
decoration. Box is one of our greatest fayourites, but we also 
use Yew, one or two kinds of Cypress, a small-leaved Phillyrea, 
and one or two others. Box, owing to the number of its bright 


February 9, 1871. ] 


shining leaves, looks best at night; suitable sprigs are tied | 


upon wire bent to the design fixed upon, and are quickly laid 
upon the table, care being taken to turn upwards as many of 
the leaves as can be done, and if the figare is of a pleasing 
character its effect is good. Of course, a knowledge of the 
position of the important objects on the table is necessary in 
order to work out the design to scale, which is not a difficult 
matter, as provision can easily be made for having some of the 
parts longer or shorter as required. With this object in view, 
itis advisable that the design should be in a great number of 
Pieces, none of them more than 3 feet long following the curves, 
and few that length. We use galvanised wire that has become 
dulled by exposure, as most nearly approaching the colour of 
the stems of the evergreens, and no stouter than will merely 
bear handling and carrying about; twigs of evergreens are 
neatly tied to it with some dark-coloured string, beginning 
at one end and making the top of one sprig overlap the butt 
end of the other, in the ordinary way of garland-making. 
Figures so made will last quite fresh a fortnight or more if 
kept in a cool moist place. We lay ours out of doors where 
they will not be dirtied, but will be exposed to all the rain and 
snow that falls. 

Figuring of this kind, as will be seen, can be made to intersect 
the table in any fanciful form, like so much embroidery, and 
the deep green foliage stands out well upon the clean white 
tablecloth. Curves of, say, about one-third of a circle, may 
cross each other at their ends and form a continuous chain- 
work of elliptical links and lozenge-shaped ones alternately, 
which may each enclose something required on the table. This 
chain includes the ends as well as the sides, leaving the space 
of 14 inches next the outer edge quite clear for the plates, &c., 
the same as in the trough system; in fact, in all cases this 
space must be left untouched. The curves may also be formed 
into other designs. A little alteration from the above will 
allow of their being formed into what gardeners call the 
Florentine chain, which is a continuation of portions of the 
letter S overlapping each other; a still further alteration, but 
at the same time requiring a separate set of wire forms will 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


105 


make scrollwork, which, partly encircling the base of each 
dessert dish, looks very well, the whole being connected by the 
serpentine line; or the scrolls may be made to exhibit them- 
selves on the open spaces of the tablecloth, but there is seldom 
room for this, and, as I have before observed, I am averse to 
any mutilation of leaves to form very fine work, which I have 
never found answer. There are many other modes in which 
this kind of evergreen embroidery in a curved or serpentine 
form can be wrought into agreeable forms, and I will now pass 
on to another class, which is straight work; here, again, there 
ig great diversity. 

Many years ago the writers on landscape gardening found 
great fault with straight lines, and avenues so planted were 
to them an abomination, consequently there are but few such 
at the present day of thirty or forty years’ growth, but more 
recently their claims to importance have been recognised, fresh 
ones are being planted, and straight lines after all have been 
thought to have their merits; for the purpose at present under 
consideration I am not certain but they will be thought more 
ornamental and effective than curved lines, while their intro- 
duction alternately with these produces an agreeable change. 
In our case we use the same materials as with the curves, or 
rather use one of them; if the curves be of Cypress we make 
the next piece of Box, or of something else, on a wire 
frame, and mostly in short straight lengths. Sometimes it is 
advisable to have pieces like the letter L; and for a sort of 
Grecian pattern that will be described below, pieces bent so 
as to form three sides of a square are found very useful. 
One mode of using these straight pieces is to form a border 
all round the table, and to let other pieces cross each other 
in the centre diagonally, dividing it into a number of lo- 
zenges and triangles, a short piece uniting their points with 
the outer bordering in the manner of lead-casemented windows. 
Of course each square and triangle is expected to contain some- 
thing wanted on the table. 

There are also modes in which the straight lines can be 
called into requisition, and which will easily occur to the de- 
corator; but that which has been generally most admired here: 


Dinner table, with twenty-four dishes of dessert, six candles, as represented by the crosses, and five stands for 


flowers. 
may be in pairs, the two end ones being alike. 


ig a simple form of what I believe in architecture is called the 
Grecian fret, and which is represented in the accompanying 
engraving. A number of wire forms are bent into the shape 
of three sides of a square; the two angles, being right angles, 
are dressed in the manner described, and assuming the sides to 
be each from a foot to 15 inches in length, as may be required, 
one such piece is laid round the base of each dessert dish, with 
its points towards the central line of the table, and just as 
many single straight pieces of the same length as each side of 
the others will be wanted to unite the three-sided pieces to- 


If there be a central object, as a piece of plate, only four stands will be wanted, and these, if necessary, 


gether, the whole forming a design round the table, with every 
turning at right angles. Of course care must be taken to have 
the lines correct both longitudinally and crossways, and when, 
neatly done, the agreeable simplicity of the design has generally 
found a greater number of admirers than more elaborate 
devices. Perhaps it may be incorrect to call this the Grecian 
pattern, a8 it contains so few turnings, and the battlements 
of some old towers exhibit all the angles. The design may. 
be extended to any length of table, or made shorter at will. 
J. Ropson. 


WORK FOR 


KITCHEN GARDEN, 

THE state of tle weather prevents much being done in the 
Open ground ; but all tools may be sharpened and made ready 
for use. Cut Pea sticks, and prepare dung for forcing; shake 
it well to pieces when turned, and if it should be dry water it, 
Ifa constant succession of Asparagus is required, a bed should 
be made every fortnight till the end of March or beginning of 
April; a slight heat only is necessary. Keep the frames close, 
and cover up well till the shoots make their appearance, when 
they should have light and air. Seeds of the various sorts of 
Capsicums should now be sown in pots, which should be placed 
ina hotbed. If a*sowing of Carrots has not yet been made it 
may now be put in on{a slight 1 otbed, and covered with hoops 


THE WEEK. 


and mats, or a frame, which may be removed in a month or 
six weeks if wanted for other purposes. If it is not convenient 
to prepare beds for Potatoes immediately, plant in small pots, 
and place them in any corner of the forcing house, where they 
can remain until they have made their appearance above 
ground; they should then be planted out, or be placed ina 
situation where they can receive sufficient light. I strongly 
urge the necessity of thoroughly turning up ground in whick. 
vegetable seeds are to be sown, and those who have allowed 
vacant ground to remain untouched should lose no opportunity 
of turning up the soil as deeply as possible, to expose it to the 
pulverising influence of frost; but while advising deep cut- 


tivation, 1 would not recommend bringing up the bottom if it 


106 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 9, 1871. 


is poor and the supply of manure is short. After heavy rains 
and snow storms defective drainage will also be perceptible; a 
wet, badly-drained garden gives but poor supplies of vegetables 
in winter. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

All pruning and nailing should be brought to a close as the 
weather will permit. Peaches and Apricots which have been 
taken from the walls to retard them until they are pruned, 
should not be left to the force of the wind, but be tied in 
bunches to the stronger wood till they are to be nailed up per- 
manently. Fruit trees infested with moss should have as 
much as possible of it scraped off with a blunt knife or piece of 
iron hoop, and the parts well dusted with fresh lime, or lime- 
wash may be laid on with abrush, If the glaring appearance 
is objectionable, a mixture of soot may be given. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

Those who have alterations to accomplish this spring in the 
sway of planting and ground work, must lose no time when we 
have a favourable change in the weather. In planting large 
shrubs, it is an excellent practice to half fill the hcles intended 
for the plant or tree with the rakings of the pleasure ground; 
this imparts to the plants an unusual degree of luxuriance, and 
of a most enduring character. Look over and correct the general 
outlines of ornamental plantations. Break into all hedge-like 
lines; form bold recesses where space will admit of it, and 
endeayour to create variety. The lines of irregular plantations 
or shrubberies should be corrected in this way at least every 
three years, as however well they may haye been designed 
originally, the unequal growth of trees will, in some degree, 
militate against their first intention. Re-arrange masses of 
American plants; some of the more delicate Azaleas are fre- 
quently overgrown and injured by the grosser Rhododendrons. 
Biennials may be planted in flower borders or beds. Top- 
dressing Auriculas should be proceeded with on every favour- 
-able occasion. There are many kinds of manures recommended 
for top-dressing by different growers, but no manure is found 
equal to sheep dung, it produces a richness and brilliancy of 
colour in some varieties that cannot be surpassed—two parts 
of sheep manure in a very decomposed state, one part rich 
éurfy loam, and one part decayed leaf mould; to this adda 
sufficient quantity of silver sand to colour it, and let it be well 
mixed previous to using. Having selected some of the strongest 
plants.to commence with, proceed to examine them separately; 
turn each out of the pot in which it has been growing, with 
‘the ball of earth entire, to ascertain that the drainage is in 
proper order, and the earth free from worms and remove an 
inch of the surface soii from round the neck of the plant; 
a sharp knife is the proper instrument to perform this 
operation. Having removed the offsets fill round the neck 
of the plant with prepared compost, give the pot a gentle 
stroke on the bench, and a shake at the same time to level 
the soil. In planting the offsets it is necessary to divide 
them into three classes ; those which are strong and well zooted 
may be potted singly in 60-sized pots; the weaker kinds that 
are moderately rooted are much better planted round the edge 
of the pots; and those with no roots may be planted similarly, 
dut require to be kept in a warmer situation. 
offsets should not contain manure of any description, it should 
be composed of one part turfy loam, one part leaf mould, and 
one part peat earth, with a small portion of silver sand. In 
planting offsets without roots be careful to fasten them tightly 
at the neck; they strike under hand-glasses much more quickly 
than in frames. The planting of Ranunculuses should com- 
mence about the middle of February, as soon as the frost is out 
of the ground, and the surface in a fit state torake. The beds 
must be made perfectly level, and the distance between the 
rows, 6 inches, should be marked on the woodedge; the bed is 
then ready for planting. It is a very important object to insure 
success in the cultivation of this flower, that the tubers be 
placed no deeper than 14 inch; should they be either deeper or 
shallower a new and smaller one is formed.at this depth to the 
serious injury ofthe variety. The best instrument to regulate 
the depth of the drill is a piece of smooth wood rather longer 
than the width of the bed, 5 or 6 inches broad, with notches 
i: inch deep at each end of one of the edges; the back of this 
board serves for levelling the surface, and by extending the 
eut edge across the bed the rows are marked. Then witha 
trowel scoop out the soil to the required depth, and to ascertain 
this press the notched end into the drill till it rests on the 
edges of the bed; plant the tubers by pressing them firmly 
into the soil, taking care not to break any of them, and cover 
them with the soil taken out of the drill. For strong-growing 


The compost for | 


kinds ten tubers in a row are quite enough for a bed 4 feet wide; 
twelve or fourteen of the weaker kinds may be planted. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Luculia gratissima, when it has ceased flowering, should not 
get much water for a short time; pick off first the decayed 
heads of blossom, then cut the parts back moderately if they 
are loose and straggling, but if of a good shape stop all the 
shoots at a joint or two according to their strength. Do not 
venture to cut the plants back if they are notin good health, 
or without particular caution; they will probably not again 
break. Repot, top-dress, and clean all plants that require such 
attention; give air on every possible occasion, and no more 
fire heat than is sufficient to expel frost and damp. 


STOVE. 

Start such plants as Stephanotis, Dipladenias, Cleroden- 
drons, both young and old plants, and recollect that a genial 
bottom heat is what they delight in. Do not at present excite 
Ixoras nor such plants as Franciscea macrophylla, which have 
set their bloom; but young plants of all kinds, to make the 
most of them, must be started immediately. Prepare tan or 
other fermenting material for renewing the bottom heat towards 
the beginning of March. Increase the moisture and tempera- 
ture gradually as the days lengthen. 


PITS AND FRAMES. 

Propagate Dahlias by putting them in heat until they break, 
and then remove the young shoots, each of which should be 
potted in a small 60 or thumb-pot, and placed on a hotbed 
which has stood long enough to allow of the escape of the moist 
heat which would be fatal to the young plants; the frame 
should be kept as close as possible, and water given frequently, 
watching for any appearance of hot steam.—W. Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


On the 4th of February we lost sight of the snow, and were 
gladdened with a view of the green turf once more, the thorough 
disappearance of the white mantle being greatly owing to heavy 
rains on the preceding day. Altogether the week, up to the 
4th, has been one of the darkest and mistiest we have seen, and 
though we have had a good proportion of damp days, the rain- 
fall as a whole in this neighbourhood has as yet been very 
deficient, as our reservoirs of water too truly testify. By the 
6th inst, we expect the frost will be out of the ground. Even 
on bare pastures, in many cases the soil is too hard a little 
beneath the surface to permit of the water from the melted 
snow passing freely away. 

KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Trenching and digging where practicable, and when time 
could be given, were here the chief work as preparatory for 
planting and sowing, as most early sowings are none the 
earlier now, and very early crops, such as Peas and Beans, are 
considerably injured. Sowings now, and repeated again during 
the month, will have the advancing sun to help them on. The 
whole appearance of the kitchen garden testifies to the appro- 
priateness of the remarks lately as to having a good breadth 
of the hardier Greens, as they have stood the frost well. 

Cabbages.—It is rather mortifying to read in the articles 
of coadjutors and contemporaries of the importance of filling up 
gaps in the main earliest quarters of Cabbages. Onur fine- 
looking plants stood the first and most severe frosts well, 
and when the short partial thaw came we thought we were 
secure, and rejoiced; for what is better for an establishment 
than a fine quarter of early Cabbages? Now, though we pro- 
tected them with Laurel branches, we find that the main 
crops are so much injured as scarcely to be worth keeping and 
filling up, and beds of young plants are very much injured, so 
that even young plants will be very scarce. Singularly enough 
rather small plants of Coleworts, grown chiefly for autumn use, 
and generally considered more tender than the Cabbages that 
furnish the first spring supply, have stood when the Cabbages 
have given way. This applies also to the young plants left in 
the seed-bed. They have wintered better than the supposed 
hardier kinds. As mentioned lately, those planted on a sloping 
bank to the north have stood the best of all, and we shall be 
glad of them, though they will not equalin size the fine fill- 
basket Cabbages from the main quarters. It will be interesting 
to know under what cirenmstances Cabbages have stood best. 
We suspect that the frost will have done most injury where the 
soil was richest and stiffest. The lowness and comparative 
warmth of the position would also aggravate the evil. Owing to 
altitude alone, we have often wholly escaped when gardens in 


February 9, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


107 


the valley have greatly suffered. We hope that in the ligh* 
lands about Sandy and elsewhere there will be thousands 
upon thousands of healthy Cabbage plants, and that their sale 
at good prices will do a little to help the market gardeners in 
that district, as they suffered greatly owing to the drought of 
last. summer. 

We'shall take up and pot some of our small plants that are 
lefé and put them in a frame with just the slightest bottom 
heat, so that the plants may have a number of fresh roots 
before being turned out. Many a plan must be tried to lessen 
the mischief which the long-continued frost has done us. We 
must also depend on the seedlings raised under glass, to be 
pricked-off and hardened-off before being turned out in the 
open ground. 

Fortunately, Cauliflowerg under hand-lights and other slight 
protection have stood well. The hand-lights had a little litter 
over them for a fortnight; Broccoli has also suffered much, 
except the hardiest kinds. Altogether we fear that vegetables 
will be scarce this season. We shall be glad to give more pro- 
minence than usual to Spinach, and that, Radishes, and Turnips 
must be obtained, if possible, earlier than usual. 

Where seed Peas are no object, a nice supply for soups and 
even small dishes may be obtained by sowing the Peas thickly 
where there is a little heat and plenty of light, and cutting the 
tops over when 2 or 3 inches in height. At that size the soup 
will have much the flayour of Green Peas, as alluded to lately. 
Many a farmer might have delicious dishes of Turnip tops 
by making a slight hotbed, placing a frame over it, setting 
Swedish Turnips inside not too thickly, and cutting the tops 
when about 4 inches in height. If the tops are not higher the 
tubers will not be much injured for feeding stock. If preferred 
yellow instead of green, the tubers must be kept dark. Any 
warm place would do for this purpose. 

Successions of Sea-kale, Rhubarb, Asparagus, Mushrooms, 
Potatoes, Radishes, &c., must be attended to, but these have 
lately received considerable attention. With a press of ground 
work and the retarding nature of the weather, it will not be 
easy to secure our usual forwardness in the kitchen-garden 
department. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Here, too, we are behind as to pruning and nailing, but we 
must try to expedite the first in all things except Peaches and 
Apricots. The bird question also often interferes with us as 
respects the smaller fruit. We hope that the Strawberry plants 
have not suffered. What we have examined, whether old or 
young, seem sound, owing to the protection of the snow. We 
have a strong belief that even the Cabbages most exposed, even 
of good size, would have withstood all the frost we have had, if 
it had been continuous. The partial and short thaws between 
made them more tender. We shall not be so forward as usual 
with Strawberries under glass, owing to alterations and fresh 
stagings in houses, but they look at present as if they would 
do well. 

There could be no worse weather for Peach trees in bloom. 
We could do nothing more for them than keep them at a 
rather low temperature at night, give them a rise with air 
during the day, and with a thin flat board, used as afan, make a 
slight breeze over the blooms to disperse the pollen gently. 
Partly owing to the sun of last season, the blooms seem strong 
and robust, and where thickly set we have thinned them con- 
siderably. In early forcing such thinning does much to insure 
a free healthy setting. Though heayy waterings are seldom 
now required, yet the roots should not be dry at such a period. 
The soil, therefore, should be examined, and all the more if 
the heating medium is close to the soil, or even under its level, 
the latter sometimes being the case in old houses. Of course 
we do not approve of any such plan, but many must make the 
best of what they haye, instead of waiting until better means 
can be obtained. 

Early Vines will algo require much attention. Owing to the 
above causes ours will not be early, but have had the stems 
damped several times; though when a damp atmosphere can 
be secured there is less necessity for this syringing. We seldom 
syringe late Vines at all, either before or after they break. After 
they grow some length our water would not be clean enough. 
What moisture the leaves absorb from damp paths, &c., will 
be sure to be clean. - 

One great security for forward fruit houses in this and the 
late dark foggy weather is ay much as possible to proportion 
heat to light, and then to give air, but mollified before it reaches 
the plants. A high moist temperature in such sunless weather 
is almost sure to be followed by watery spongy growth. Lower- 


ing the temperature five or more degrees, but so as to be safe, 
renders less atmospheric vapour necessary. Then, though as 
a general rule the vapour in the air of a house should be pro- 
portioned to the heat, it is easy to have too much of it when 
either Peaches or Vines are in bloom. The Peach will set 
best in a rather dry atmosphere, and though the air for Vines 
in a similar condition should not be go dry, neither should it 
approach saturation point. When the air is very dry, the little 
cap that encloses the parts of fructification is apt to bind them 
so closely that they cannot perform their functions. When 
the atmosphere is too saturated, the pollen is rendered lumpy 
and inert. For helping the pollen to act, in the case of Grapes, 
after trying brushes, fine feathers, &c., we have found nothing. 
better than a dry clean hand drawn very gently along the 
bunch. For early Strawberries, too, we have found nothing 
better than drawing a dry hand through the trusses of bloom 
when they, too, were dry. 

For all early houses with the Vine roots outside these roots 
must be protected from the cold, and if slightly warmed all the 
better. The simplest mode of doing this is to cover with litter, 
fern, &c., early enough in the autumn to prevent the heat of 
the summer stored in the soil escaping. Every day we see 
more and more the importance of planting Vines, &c., inside 
the house, though most of ours are planted outside; and even 
when we renew them we cannot help ourselves unless the whole 
internal arrangements as respects heating, &c., were altered, 
and these matters are not easily done. Of course our Vines 
are taken into the house through holes made on purpose, and 
one great disadvantage with us has ever beon the rats finding. 
their way to such holes and gnawing the stems, notwithstanding 
every possible means to deter and catch them. With one or 
two exceptions they have rarely meddled with the fruit. We 
would never think of so planting a new vinery. Under suck 
circumstances the borders must be protected, and all the more 
in early houses. If fermenting material is used care should be 
taken that the heat is not too strong, and a tiial stick, and, 
better still, a thermometer, should be inserted in the border 
3 or 4 inches from the surface. From 65° to 80° wovld do no. 
harm for short periods, but it is well not to exceed that. The 
average of 70° will tend much to encourage fibres to keep near 
the surface ; the only disadvantage arising from such covering 
is that it should not be taken off soon, nor altogether at once, sc- 
as to give the border a chill. We have sometimes had the 
fruit of early Vines nearly ripe before removing it; and we 
know of many first-rate early Grape-growers, even when the- 
Vine roots are not all outside, who seldom remove the cover- 
ing from the borders until the berries colour. Of course with 
later houses such care is less necessary ; but in medium houses 
as to earliness, many failures take place from giving a high 
temperature to the stems and branches whilst the roots are 
comparatively cold, and there is therefore no reciprocal action. 

A number of years ago we met, when in the position of an 
under-gardener, with a striking example as to Vines partly 
under our charge, which we have never forgotten. The Vines 
were planted outside, and introduced through the front wall. 
In one year there was a splendid crop, ripening in August,. 
without any care or covering being bestowed on the outside 
border. The next season it became very desirable that the 
same Vines should ripen their crop fully two months earlier. 
There was nothing done to the border outside, except a few 
inches of litter put on a narrow part of it in December, the rest- 
being occupied with an artistic geometrical figure in Box, which 
it was felt very undesirable to disturb ; otherwise the usual rou- 
tine inside was gone through. The Vines broke well and showed 
well, but just as the bunches were lengthening and coming to 
the flowering period, a sudden check took place, the points of 
the bunches turned up, the central stem of the bunch became 
yellowish, many bunches became nothing better than tendrils, 
the little white globular dots in the shoots disappeared, there 
were no condensed drops of dew on the points of the foliage in 
the morning, and a very inferior crop, next thing to a failure, 
was obtained, instead of the grand crops before and afterwards. 
The Vines had used up the reserves stored in the past season, 
and the inert roots were unable to yield a further supply at a 
critical period, and the most valuable part suffered first. We 
believe if the roots had been close to the surface the failure 
would have been more complete. We thought then, and we are 
more confident of it now, if towards the end of Oetober from 
12 to 18 inches of dry litter had been placed securely on that 
border to the width of 15 or 18 feet, or if a month later some 
fermenting material had been placed over it to make and keep 
the surface warmish, so as to excite action in the roots, that no 


108 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ February 9, 1871. 


such sudden check would have taken place. In such cases, 
then, let us so far teach by precept rather than example, and 
advise planters of Vines in houses to be forced at all early to 
plant inside, and have at least a portion of the roots inside, 
and even then to give some protection to the outside border in 
winter.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


Archibald Henderson, Sion Nursery, Thornton Heath, Croydon.— 
Catalogue of Garden, Agricultural, and Flower Seeds. 

Little & Ballantyne, 44, English Street, Carlisle—Cataloyue of 
Garden, Flower, and Farm Seeds, Implements, &c. 

William Thompson, Tavern Street, Ipswich.— Descriptive Catalogue 
of Flower Sceds. 

Y. Strachan, 4, Hizh Street, Wresham.— Catalogue of Agricultura’, 
Venetable, and Flower Seeds, &c. 

EK. G. Henderson & Son, Wellington Road, St. John’s Wood, Lor- 
don, N.W.— Catalogue of Flower Seeds. 

F. & A. Dickson & Sots, 106, Hastgate Street, and Upton Nurseries, 
Chester.— Catalogue of Vegetable and Flower Seeds. 


T. Bunyard & Sons, Maidstone and Ashford, Kent.—Desciiptive | 


Catalogue of Vegetable, Flower, and Agricultural Seeds. 

S. Dixon & Co., 484, Moorgate Street, London, E.C.—Select List 
of Vegetable and Flower Seeds. 

James Dickson & Sons, 102, Eastgate Street, and Newton Nar- 
series, Chester.—Catalogue of Vegetable and Flower Seeds.—Cata- 
logue of Forest Trees, Fruit Trees, Shrubs, &c. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 


Books (TZ. E.).—Johnston’s * Physical Geography,” Brown's ‘‘ Forester’s 
Guide.” 

Seeps (H. H.).—Any seedsman could obtain those you mentionif any 
are in the market. 


Kew Garpens (4. B.).—Write to Mr. Smith, the Curator. 


Pronouncine Dictionary (I. Barrett).—No such dictionary of the 
names of plants is published. 


Potato Cutturs (T. Edmond).—The pamphlet you name was written 
‘to sell. Itis a tissue of ignorance. 


PARSNIPS NOT FoRKED (Crondall).—Trench the ground two spades 
deep, and turn in manure with the bottom spit. If you enclose seven 


spostane stamps with your address we will send you by post ‘‘ The Rabbit 
ook.” 


CucumBERS.—“ W.G. W.” writes to us that ‘“‘H. N.” may probably ob- 
tain Tindall’s No. 2 Cucumber seed of Mr. Milan, seedsman, Doncaster, 
or Fisher, Holmes, & Co., seedsmen, &c., Sheffield; but to make sure, 
“‘R.N.” might send to the raiser, Mr. Tindall, gardener, Sprotborough 
Hall, Doncaster, where “No.1” and ‘‘No.2” are grown extensively. 
For Thomas Eads, our correspondent adds, Dale’s Conqueror Cucumber 
-seed is rather scarce; but, probably, if he applied to Mr. Thomas Dale, 
gardener to Mrs Tetley, Armley, Leeds, he would either supply him with 
-seed or give the desired information. : 


How To Puant A BorpvER (J. W. B.).—We do not plant borders, we 
merely criticise proposed planting. We presume you mean hardy an- 
auals. The following would look well:—1, Silene pendula, or Saponaria 
-calabrica ; 2, Nemophila insignis; 8, Clarkia pulchella alba; 4, Viscaria 
oculata; 5, Erysimum Peroffskianum; 6, Blue Branching Larkspur. 

Fowxs’ DunG For RoszEs (W. G.).—You had better mix the heavy soil 
~with the light soil in which your Roses are growing, and do not apply 
manure until the flower-buds appear. 


LeGGy ZONAL AND TRICOLOR PELARGONIUMS (G. G.).—The only way 
~o make them bushy plants will be to cut them down now, leaving to each 
shoot two or three eyes,and if you could encourage fresh growth by 
placing them in a house with a temperature of from 45° to5vU° they would 
‘break more freely. The cuttings, inserted singly in 3-inch pots, would 
make good plants by bedding-out time if struck in a gentle hotbed, their 
growth encouraged, and then hardened well off by planting-out time. 
The “Garden Manual,” Keane’s ‘‘In-door Gardening,” and Keane’s 
~“* Out-door Gardening,” price 1s. 6d. each, will suit you. 


YELLOW-FLOWERING ANNUAL (A Poor Man).—The best yellow-flowering 
annual, 9 inches to a foot in height, is Nasturtium Tom Thumb, yellow. 

TurRF BARE UNDER LIME TREES (Lime Trees).—November is much too 
late to sow grass seeds, and to that we should attribute their bad growth. 
It is likely some of the seeds have vegetated, and that others will do so 
in spring, but we think your only plan will be to sow again early in April. 

ZEA JAPONICA VARIEGATA AND CANNA TREATMENT ‘dn Amatew).— 
There is no particular treatment required by these plants in summer, for 
tf there were their value for out-door decoration would be small. They 
Tequire a situation protected from winds, but it should be openand yam. 
A rich light soil is most suitable, enriching it with leaf soil or well-rotted 
manure. Water should be plentifully given in dry weather, and sprinkle 
them overhead on the evenings of hot days. Shelter, however, is the 
main essential, for in exposed situutions their leaves become torn and 
‘broken by the wind, and are then very unsightly. 


RatsinGc Roses FRoM SEED (W. C.).—Rose seeds require time to vege- 
tate, and had better be kept in tolerably moist cool soil before they are 
finally introduced into heat; then, when the outside shell of the seed is 
‘beginning to soften, sow thinly in boxes in a propagating house, being 
careful to keep the young shoots near the Jight when they first appear. 
The seeds should he mixed with soil and put in a cool moist place soon 
after gathering—when they are thoroughly ripened—and finally sown early 
in the spring—in February. Prick them out in boxes, pot offinto small 
pots, giving shifts as required, and keep them in a cold frame the first 
-year. Plant out the following spring in April or May. A few of the 
strongest and most forward plants might be planted in October the same 


year, if the seeds push quickly after being sown. As a general rule, so 
long as there is plenty of light and air, and the seedlings are not drawn 
up, it is better to give plenty of heat and push them on quickly. Mice 
are great enemies to the seed, and eare must be taken in storing it in the 
first instance so as to be safe from their ravages. 


SoLANUM CAPSICASTRUM SEEDLINGS (J. B.).—We have our plants in a 
greenhouse, and they are loaded with bright red berries. Some are in 
9-inch pots and grown as standards on stems 2 feet high, with very hand- 
some heads 18 inches in diameter, and others are trained as pyramids. 
We advise you to turn the plants out of the pots in March, remove all the 
soil that comes away freely from the roots, and repot in 6-inch pots; or 
if pots of less size will hold the roots and balls without cramping, use 
them. Good drainage is necessary, and a compost of light turfy loam 
two parts, used rather rough, and one-third leaf soil or old decayed manure. 
Place the plants in a light airy position, keep them clear of green fly, and 
remove any irregularities of growth in April and again in June, short- 
ening the long shoots soas to form compact plants. This is all the treat- 
ment we give our plants, and they could not do better. Repot them in 
June, orin May if the pots are full of roots. Do not give a large shift. 
For 11s. you may obtain a case of drawing instruments, except scales, of 
most stationers and of mathematical instrument makers. Instruments 
of inferior quality may be had for much less. 


CLIMBERS FoR SoutH Watt (Lancashire Subscriber).—Berberidonsis 
corallina, Caprifolium luteum, Clematis Jackmanni, Glycine sinensis, 
Lardizabala biternata, Bignonia grandiflora, Clematis Standishi, C. He- 
lena, Roses Gloire de Dijon and Maréchal Niel, Jasminum officinale 
grandiflorum, and Ceanothus floribundus. We do not advise the above, 
but would have all evergreens—viz., Ceanothus azureus, C. floribundus, 
C. integerrimus, Arbutus procera, Escallonia macrantha, E. montevi- 
densis, Garrya elliptica, Ligustrum japonicum, Crategus Pyracantha, 
Cotoneaster microphylla, Berberis stenophylia, and Magnolia grandiflora, 
Exmouth variety. These are shrubs, but suitable for walls or trellises 
against walls. For the trellis outside the front door we would haye Co- 
toneaster microphylla and Pyracantha. There are no evergreen climbers 
that would suit, except Ivies. 


CLIMBERS FOR ConseRVATORY (Idem).—Habrothamnus elegans, Hoya 
carnosa, Jasminum gracile, Kennedya inophylla floribunda, K. Marryatte, 
Lapageria rosea, Mandeyilla suaveolens, Passiflora Comte Nesselrode, 
P. Countess Giuglini, Tacsonia Van-Volxemi, Tecoma jasminoides, and 
Rbynchospermum jasminoides. 


EXPENSE OF MakING A DrIveE (P. J. S.)—We have paid 2s. 6d. per 
1 0 feet for taking out a foot deep and throwing into carts, the usual 
price being 3d. per square yard, and for carting not more than a quarter 
of a mile 3d. per yard extra; or 6d. per yard altogether for reducing the 
ground 1 foot, which is 2s. 9d. perrod. The rubble will cost about 1s. per 
load, and the carting about 1s. 6d., and will set 3 to 4 square yards, three 
loads being sufficient for two rods, consequently one rod will cost 3s. 9d. ; 
and the metal, 4s. 83d. per 54 cubic feet, will cover two rods sufficiently, 
which with cartage will cost 7s. 3d, or 3s. 74d. per rod; in all 10s, 14d. 

er rod. 
® Top-DRESSING LawN (Old Subscriber).—lf you now give the lawn a 
good top-dressing of lime and soil we do not see the necessity for the 
bone dust in March, though there is no objection to its use, as the lime, 
from mixing with the soil, will not have any injurious effect on the bone. 
If we gave the bone dust at all, which we would not this year, we should 
apply it all over. Itis one of the best, if not the best, of manures for 
grass, and the most permanent. 


CURRANT AND GOOSEBERRY Curtines (4 Subscriber)—Now is a good 
time to put in cuttings of these. Dig the ground well, and insert them 
3 inches by a foot apart. Remove the eyes from the part inserted in the 
ground, which should be two-thirds the length of the cuttings. 


Srx PoraToEs AND PEAS FOR EXHIBITION (Idem).—Victoria, Red-skinned 
Flourball, Huntingdon, Berkshire Kidney, Webb’s Imperial, and Dalma- 
hoy, three kidney and three roundkinds. Of Peas for September, Veitch’s 
Perfection, Maclean’s Premier, Ne plus Ultra, British Queen, Dwarf Green 
Mammoth, and Champion of England. Why grow so many ? 


Vine Currines (New Beginner).—If you employ cuttings, each should 
have two eyes, one to be above the surface, and the other 2 inches below 
it. You had better propagate from eyes. In that case follow these direc- 
tions, which we extract from our ‘‘ Vine Manual.” Prefer the buds that 
are nearest to the preceding year’s wood, taking care, however, that each 
bud is plump and sound. Towards the middle of December have ready a 
sufficient number of pots 3} inches wide. Then, about New Year’s-day, 
bring the cuttings inside, and cut the shoots into short lengths, one bud 
to each length. An inch in length will be sufficient. The part behind 
the bud is then reduced in thickness, and cut off ina slanting direction 
towards the ends, and the part under the bud horizontally. The cutting 
will then have the appearance shown. Fill the pots nearly to the brim with 
soil, composed of fresh 
good loam, leaf mould, 
and very rotten dung, 
in equal parts, and 
with a small dibble 
insert one bud or eye 
in each pot quite over- 
head. Placethepots in 
a propagating-house, 
on a platform covered 
with sand, with a heat 
of 76°. At first, how- 
ever, a temperature of 50° will be sufficient, and raiseit 5° every week till 
the maximum is reached. A moist atmosphere should be kept up in order 
to cause the eyes to swell and break kindly. In a month or six weeks every 
bud will be breaking through the soil and forming roots. Keep the soil 
regularly moist, but not wet, for too much water would cause some to 
damp off. As the leaves begin to expand more water may be given. 


Vine LEAVES UNHEALTHY (G. W. C.).—We do not thiuk any of the Vine 
leaves sent us haye been infested with red spider, but they seem to haye 
suffered from a current of cold air, or steam arising from sprinkling 
water on the heating medium whilst very hot. The leaves are too young 
for red spider, but they are so thin that we think it likely they will be 
attacked by it, therefore keep an outlook forit; and to ward off its attacks 
paint the hot-water pipes with sulphur brought to the consistency of 
paint by a solution of 4 ozs. of soft soap to a gallon of water, which will 


February 9, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


euise the sulphur to adhere. By giving a little more heat now that the | 


Musceats are‘flowering, and by attending to artificial impregnation, you 
may succeed in setting them fairly; this effected, you may grow tolerably 
well Muscats, Sweetwaters, and Black Hamburghs in the same house, but 
you would have a greater certainty of success if there were a division 
separating the Muscats from the Sweetwaters and Hamburghs. We can 
give you the recommendation you require for the Royal Horticultural 
Society’s examination. 

Cucumpers DEFormeD (W. C. C.).—The cause of your Cucumber3 
clubbing or having a knob at the end is they are seeding, which may be 
due to the stock you have being worn-out or old, or the plants may have 
been a long time in growth. We know of no remedy but fresh seed and 
young plants that have been grown without check. Perhaps a little more 
heat and atmospheric moisture would remedy the evil, giving weak 
liquid manure occasionally, as well as a top-dressing of rich light com- 
post, and removing some of the old soil. 


MusuHroom Bep (4. D., Herts).—We cannot reply to your query unless 
you tell us where the bed is to be. ) 


OsteER BED IN A Damp MeEaApow (Rosemary).—If the expense is not too 
great it would be best to trench the ground before planting, at least it 
ought to be dug so as to turn the turf and other herbage upside down. 
Put in the Osier plants or cuttings as quickly as possible afterwards; 
both would grow by merely planting them on the turf, but not so well, 
and the rank herbage would be very troublesome in summer, and injure, 
if not choke, the small plants. Osier plants would be better than cuttings, 
but the latter will do; at the same time be careful to ensure planting 
only good varieties and such as are suitable for the desired purpose A 
strong coarse Willow is best suited for hampers and similar purposes, 
while a smaller one, tough and solid, with scarcely any pith in its centre, 
is the best for fine work. You had better consult some neighbouring 
basket-maker about the kind most likely to be wanted, as we know of 
some disappointment arising from not making such inquiries. 

AVOIDING RED SPIDER (—— ).—There is no better plan for preventing 
red spider appearing on the Strawberry plants in the vinery than using a 
moist atmosphere, washing the walls with sulphur behind the Straw- 
berries, and also smearing the hot-water pipes with sulphur; the pipes 
or flues should not be warmer than about 170°. If there is a flue in the 
house, do not put sulphur at the warmest end. All fumes below that 
temperature will be safe, but beware of having strong fumes when the 
Vines are setting, and whilst the Grapes are small. 


Bark BED FoR Currines (A Subscriber)—Tanners’ bark will do ex- 
cellently for a bed with a frame over it for striking cuttings, &c., at the 
end of February, in March, and onwards. The bed should be made a 
fortnight previous to use in order that the tan may be sweet. To make a 
small striking house with a flue, you could not do better than adopt a 
modification of the plan recommended to “T. M.,” at page 91, for a 
Cucumber house. We would surround the flue with open rubble—a light 
layer on the top of the flue—then washed gravel, then tan, sand, ashes, 
or cocoa-nut fibre. 


Vines IN Pots (H. Foy).—As to fruiting the Vines in pots, you will 
only succeed by keeping them in pots. Your proposed mode will answer 
very well. A bottom heat of from 70° to 80° will do after the Vines break, 
and for top heat from 60° to 65° until the bunches are pretty well formed; 
then when they begin to show bloom, raise the temperature gradually to 
70°. Weare not sure if we understand your object in placing the Vines 
in the hothouse. (M.).—It is not the fault of the Vines that they show no 
signs of breaking while standing on a stage in a dry house for ten weeks, 
with a night temperature of from 40° to 50°, and a day temperature of 
about 55°. You must moisten the canes of the Vines with a syringe, and 
keep the stage moist in sunny days, unless you place evaporating-basins 
on your pipes; then gradually increase the night temperature in a week 
to 55°, and in another fortnight to 60°, with a 1sise of from 5° to 15° in 
bright sunshine from sun heat, and with air given early. Then the Vines 
will soon show signs of moying. We cannot tell you how often to water 
at the roots, that will depend on the heat and the weather. Such Vines 
might want water every alternate day, and might not want it for ten days. 
The soil should not be dry. If pans are used for the pots, not more than 
‘irom an eighth to a quarter of an inch of water should ever be in the pan. 
The surface soil should consist of rich mulching, and weak manure water- 
ings should be given, especially after the Vines have broken and extended 
a couple of inches in length. Before breaking you may sprinkle the Vines 
twice or thrice a-day, but we have frequently broken Vines well without 
syringing them, merely by keeping a rather damp atmosphere. As to 
syringes, those haying a round ball as a valve are the simplest and best. 


Varrous (Idem).—We have no doubt that by having 2 or 3 inches on 
-each side of the fire-bars, your fire will keep longer in. We have no faith 
in earthenware pipes for flues, unless there is a piece next the furnace of 
brick. Portland cement flues answer well, as Mr. Robson testifies, and 
we have seen them at Linton. We should consider one of the smallest- 
-sized saddle or conical boilers ample for your place—say, if a saddle-back, 
14 inches high, 14 inches wide, and 20 inches long, setting the boiler on a 
wow of firebricks above the bars, and haying the space for the bars from 
9 to 10 inches wide; the boiler to be set as stated in answer to ‘T.N.” 
to-day. Such a boiler would cost without fittings about 50s., if of cast 
iron. A cylinder cast iron boiler 18 inches high and 15 in diameter would 
cost about the same. There would be little to choose between them, but 
were we managing them ourselves, we could more easily make the saddle- 
baek consume its own smoke. 


MusHrooms IN A CELLAR (J. F.).—You can hardly have better advice 
than is contained in the artic!e referred to at page 461, No. 497. It does 
not matter what the cellar is made of—rock, stone, or brick, or ifitis evena 
dry place underground. The great advantage in all is the uniform heat. 
Your dry brick cellar will answer exceedingly well. If you have p'enty oi 
horse droppings, mixing with turfy loam in the proportions stated will be 
an adyantage, but you can do without the loam if you cannot easily obtain 
it, only you must put on smaller layers at a time, and wait a little longer 
for spawning. The droppiogs from many horses, or from different stables, 
will be better than having to save material from one or two horses. 
Watering in winter will not be much needed, but when wanted we would 
use water at about 75°. In summer, to prevent any check, the water 
should be from 65° to 70° at lowest. Covering the beds with a little old 
hay will keep them more uniform in temperature and moisture in winter. 
It would not be needed in summer unless there were draughts through 
the cellar. In this case a covering would be an advantage. 


109 


SETTING A ContcaL Borter (7. N.).—We would never think of setting 
a conicul boiler with a solid wall round it. We think the best plan is to 
place it at the height of one firebrick above the grate bars, and then 
leaye a space of from 3 to3}inches round it, blocking the outlet from 
the top of the boiler inside, so that the smoke, flame, and heated air 
should go round the outside of the boiler before reaching the chimney. 
Setting your boiler on three firebricks on edge with an open space all 
round, would be better than with a solid wall next to the boiler, but on 
the whole we do not consider it to be so good as the above plan, though 
we have several times found it work well. All boilers, unless the bulk is 
inside a house, will lose heat unless surrounded by brickwork, but having 
a flue as above between the brickwork and boiler. If beyond that brick- 
work forming the flue there were another space, say 3 inches wide, for 
confined air, the heated bricks would tell on the boiler, and but little 
heat would extend to the brickwork beyond. In all such small boilers, 
however, after the heat has become strong, the continuance of heat with 
little fuel will depend on the careful use of the damper and ashpit door. 
Your 38-feet distance, where the small pipes connect the two houses out 
of doors, will also lose much heat unless these pipes be secured in a non- 
conducting medium, as dry sawdust, &c. The Lapageria rosea, being a 
strong plant, will succeed well planted out in the conservatory, if the 
place is well drained, room given for surface rather than deep rooting, 
and plenty of water without stagnation. 


Names oF Prants (MW. X. W.).—2, Scolopendrium vulgare ; 3, Selaginella 
Willdenovii; 4, Phymatodes vulgaris; 5, Pteris serrulata; 6, Adiantum 
hispidulum; 7, Saxifraga Fortunei. (M. R.).—1, Cyrtomium falcatum ; 
2, Nephrolepis tuberosa; 3, Onoclea sensibilis ; 4, Scolopendrium vulgare.» 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE, 


RESULTS OF POULTRY-KEEPING. 


AccorpING to your wish I send you a few particulars of my 
poultry-keeping. I had, hatched in April last year, twelve 
pullets and two cockerels (Golden-pencilled Hamburghs) ; the 
first pullet laid on October 23rd. 


No. of Eggs. | 


October 29th .........- on Brought forward ...... 94 
November 5th ... of) December 17th ...... 19 
i 19th ... 13 a 24th .. 28 
op 19th ... . 10 ” Slst .. . 84 
i 26th . 13 January 7th .. 29 
December 3rd... 20. | iD 14th .. 28 
oF) MYA, Gobooooedpoo 22 = 
pase | 232 

Carried forward...........+ 94 


Two hundred and thirty-two eggs at nine a-shilling amount 
to nearly £1 6s. I obtained rather more, having sold some at 
1id. each, the remainder at nine a-shilling. I fed my fowls on 
peas at ld. a-pound, and damaged wheat ut 6s. a-measure 
(75 Ibs.). 

s. d. 

Allowance per week, 6 lbs. of peas...... podubdSonDpouDDDon  W)'@ 

oo TDI Dssofawh ea treeless feline O, 


1 6 

You will remember a controversy in your Journal in 1861, 
when ‘' E. C. C.” disputed ‘‘ Lercuron’s ” statements, and per- 
haps there will be many who will say my fowls are not well fed ; 
but I imagine their laying all through this frost, when neither 
grass nor grit was to be had, will prove the contrary. I cal- 
culate the cost of my fowls at about 2s. 6d. a-head to the time 
of their commencing laying. 


£ s. da. 

Eggs Sold..........cceeescerece afalelalolelelalelelelelelalelsietetalerelainte 160 
Twelve weeks’ keep at 13. 6d. .....seeeeeeeene otoog Ww) 
LNPiliespq0d00000000 08 0 


This may seem a small profit, but I can hear of no one 
having eggs ; in fact, I am selling to people keeping four times 
the number of fowl I have, and they say they have not had an 
egg for four months. Perhaps your answer to “ A, M.” applies 
to me, and my success is attributable to hatching in April.— 
R. Wiuson, Wharf House, Ellesmere. 


[Save your March and April pullets by all means. They 
will put you in the satisfactory position you have occupied this 
year as regards eggs, but it isa pity to kill birds that have done 
so well, when they are only a year old. Sell them alive, or 
keep some of them to come in as layers when the pullets 
slacken next year. It is not all to have eggsin the winter; you 
should, and you can, manage to have them all the year round. 
—Ebs. } 


OUTRAGES ON PRIZE POULTRY. 


Tue case of malicious mischief related by Mr. Cresswell is by no 
means a solitary instance of the risk our valuable poultry have to run 
during their journeyings to the various shows. I have now to relate 
a piece of villainy of a similar or, perhaps, even worse description. 
On the 13th of January I sent off my entries to the Aberdeen Show; 
among them were two valuable Game cocks, both haying won me cups 


110 


JGURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 9, 1871. 


at two of our principal shows. I naturally enough expected some 
notice would be taken of them by the Judges in giving their awards, 
but not even a commendation did they obtain, and why I could not 
surmise until their return home, when, to my horror and disgust, I 
found my best bird deprived of a portion of his tail and the longest 
flight feathers of one wing. The other bird was also mutilated in 
feather, but not to the same extent. It is evident that the mischief 
was done at the Show, for I have received a letter from a member of 
the Northern Poultry Club, in which, after offering me his sympathy, 
he states that my first bird which was penned he considered as likely 
a one as in the class, but on returning to this pen a few minutes later 
he found my bird had made a partial moult, and a party not far dis- 
tant looking over the newly-arrived hampers, who, on being questioned, 
said he was looking for my other Game cock. Now how this party 
knew that I had more than one, or even one bird entered, is a mystery 
to me, unless he is a member of committee or had access to the Society’s 
books, and it is a still greater mystery why no effort has been made to 
bring any suspicious party to justice. 

Like Mr. Cresswell, I am prevented showing my bird for this season, 
besides being discomfited at the sight of a valuable bird suffering from 
the proceedings of one who must be depraved in the extreme, and free 
from all feeling and humanity.—J. W. Witt, Erol. 


WISBECH POULTRY, PIGEON, CANARY, AND 
RABBIT SHOW. 


Tuts, which I think was the first Exhibition of the kind held at 
Wisbech, took place on Wednesday and Thursday last, in the Public 
Hall, and was in every respect a signal success. Sometimes it requires 
a long time to popularise a poultry ora bird show. In some towns 
they take root at once and become recocn’sed institutions, whilst in 
others they have to make a struggle for existence, and not urfr2quently 
die-out from lack of support. It matters not how intrinsically ex- 
cellent any exhibition may be if the taste of the public outside lie in 
another direction ; and it is quite possible for a penny gaff, wher2 may 
be seen ‘‘ The Enchanted Stocking, hor the Blood-stained Bed-screw, 
followed by the Arlequin Dogs’-meat Man, hor Love in a Hiceberg, ” 
to reap a harvest in the same town where really interesting and in- 
structive exhibitions can scarcely glean suff¢ ent to pay rent and gas. 
Such does not appear to be the case at Wisbech, judging from the 
large attendance at the Show last week. It is under energetic, and 
what is better still, intelligent management, and I can congratulate 
the Canary fancy on one more fixture which is prepared to issue a 
good schedule, and which is under the supervision of a gentlemanly 
executive. The Hall was prettily decorated, with evergreens in pots 
interspersed here and there. It has frequently occurred to me, that 
in localities where the material is plentiful, a bird show combined 
with a winter garden or winter flower show would prove very attractive. 
Certainly it ought, and if good taste were exercised in the grouping of 
the plants and birds, a very charming spectacle might be produced. 

The Canaries were placed on a stage draped with crimson, were well 
arranged and set in a good light, and though not so numerous as 
at other shows, contained more bond fide show birds than I have met 
with anywhere in proportion to the number staged. The Clear Yellow 
Norwich was an excellent class, Messrs. Cockle & Watson winning 
easily with a gem of a Jonque, a performance they repeated in the 
Clear Buffs; Moore & Wynn being second in each class. In Varie- 
gated Jonques Mr. Hawman’s bird was first, though slightly deficient 
of afew minor feathers on one wing; but at this advanced stage of 
the season, birds which have been frequently shown, and, consequently, 
frequently in the tub, may be expected to be in not quite such faultless 
trim as some which have been kept back and laid-up in lavender. I 
think there is all the difference in the world between accidental loss 
and fraudulent trimming. Cockle & Watson were second with a grand 
heayily-marked bird, and also showed two splendid uneyenly-marked 
birds in the Buffs, in which class Moore & Wynn were first and second. 
Mr. Hawman’s bird was first in Crested Yellows, but itis taxing the dis- 
cretionary power of a judge too much to send such a really good bird 
to a showin so dirty a condition. Both this class ani the Crested 
Bufis were of extra quality. Lizards were remarkably fine, Mr. 
Harrison, and Cockle & Watson being the prizetakers with specimens 
of great merit. Mules were only moderate, the first-prize bird having 
some pretensions to quality, but the remainder only very so-so, too 
heavily and irregularly marked to have any chance with good-class 
birds. There are Mules and there are Mules. Cages of six were 
excellent, Cockle & Watson being first and second with six Jonques 
and six Mealies, very nice level birds. Messrs. Cockle & Watson 
made a gallant fight throughout, and it is something to lower the colours 
of such tried veterans as Moore & Wynn in the Clear Norwich classes. 
This, perhaps, would not have bsen the case if the Northampton firm 
had not suffered the loss at Ipswich which was announced in the ad- 
vertising columns of the Journal. They had received an anonymous 
letter (I believe it was anonymous, a cowardly proceeding at best), to 
say they would see their stolen birds at Wisbech, and Mr. Wynne 
was at the Show on the qui vive. The so-called ‘stolen birds” to be 
seen at Wisbech, were the Clear Jonque and Clear Buff shown by 
Messrs. Cockle & Watson. Mr. Cockle was fortunately present and 
gaye Mr. Wynn such thoroughly satisfactory evidence as to how and 
when he became possessed of them, as at once to clear up the matter 
and remoye any impression as to the identity of the birds. I, too, 


have since received an anonymous letter on the subject, containing a 
most unworthy attempt to fix the stigma of direct theft on Messrs. 
Cockle & Watson, a fac-simile of which I enclose with these notes to 
the Editors of the Journal, with permission to publish it if they think 
it can answer any good purpose. But as the affair assumes very much 
the character of a libel, and may result in legal proceedings, the 
curiosity of the fancy may not be satisfied for a while. I will just add, 
that my anonymous correspondent hopes I will “tell all about it in 
the Journal,” I have complied with his wish, and have placed his post 
card in Messrs. Cockle & Watson’s hands. 

I suppose this will ba the last Show of the season which I shall 
report, for I have been obliged, with many regrets, to decline Carlisle, 
and I am afraid I shall not see the Palace Show this year. Iam 
rather restless, but the moon is on the wane, and by the close of the 
week I hope to be ina resigned frame of mind. However (balsamic 
word), if I should be there that dash indicates a spasm—and 
it will be on Saturday only, or not at all—any inquiries for ““ W. A. B.” 
must be kindly made at the Secretary's table—W. A. BLAKSTON. 


DorkinGs.—1 and 2, G. Clarke, Long Sutton. 
St. John; J. Yates (2) Wisbech. 

Bantams.—l, W. Adams, Ipswich. 2, S. S. Mossop. Long Suton. he, J. Blott, 
King’s Lynn; Rev. F. Tearle, Gazely Vicarage, Newmarket. c,J. Blott; F. 
Lyons 'f. Rogers, Walsall; E. Derry, Gedney ; A. Stonar, Peterborough; T- 
Fenn. 

GsaME.—l, H. E. Martin, Sculthorpe. 2, H. Snushall, Fleet Hargate, Wisbech. 
he, W. Adams; H. E. Martin.. c, H. Snushall, 

Cocuins.—l, T. Rogers. 2, S. S. Mossop. he, W. Boon. 

Leverington. 

ANY OTHER Vanrrery.—l, T, Rogers, 2, Rey. W. H. James, Holbeach, Hurn- 
he, W. Woodhouse, West Winch; Rev. W. H. James; Rev. A. Brook, Holbeach; 
W. K. Patrick (3) West Winch: Mrs. G. Philips: C. W. Gibbs; S. Snarey, 
Wisbech; W. Cutlack, jun. c, Mrs. Green, Leverington; Miss Hill, Wisbech ; 
F. J. Bret, Downham. ¥ 
—1, Mrs. W. Ingram. 2,G. Cockle, jun. 

GEESE.—1 and 2, G. Cockle, jun. 

Turkerys.—l, E. E. Derry. 2, M.Kew, Market Overton, 


PIGEONS. 

Ca¥FRiers.—l, L. Wren, Lowestoft. 2, R. Payling, Peterborougk. le, A. Stonar- 

Pourrrs.—l, R. Fayling. 2, W. Woodhouse. >? 

TuMBLERS —l-and 2, W. Woodhouse. lie, H. Cox, Wisbech, c, Misses H- 
and A. Wren. 

Rounts.—l, H. Boyer. 

Barss.—1 and 2, J. Blott 

Dracoons.—l, A. W. Wren. 2, J.E. Crofts, Blyth. & 

ANY OTHER Variety.—l, H. Snushall(Hyacinths). 2, T. C. Marshall (Magpies)~ 
c, F. N. Taylor, Leverington (Turbits) ; J, E. Crofts (Black Magpies); J. Sim- 
mons, Wisbech (Trumpeters); R. Payling (Yellow Turbits). 

Raseits.—l, J. Priestly, Long Sutton (Lop-eared Fawa Buck). 2, J. Bree. 
New Walsoken. c, W. T. Streader, Wisbech (Doe); H. Tuck; A. Langley, 
Downham Market (Fawn Doe); J. Priestly (Lop-eared Yellow Doe). 


CAGE BIRDS. q 

Norwicu.—Clear Yellow.—l, Cockle & Watson, Terrington St. John. 2, Moore 
and Wynn, Northampton. vhc, Cockle & Watson; Moore & Wynn; W. Cooke- 
Norwich. he, T. Fenn, Ipswich (3). c,T. Irons, Northampton. Clear Bugi.— 
1, Cockle & Watson. 2, Moore & Wynn. he, W. Cooke (2); T. Fenn (2). c, T. 
Irons ; Moore & Wynn. er 

EVENLY MarkepD oR VARIEGATED YELLOW.—1, R. Hawman, Middlesbrough- 
Brcociele & Watson, vhe, Moore & Wynn (2). he, Cockle & Watson. c, T- 

enn (2). 

EVENLY MARKED oR VARIEGATED Burr.—l and 2, Moore & Wynn. viic, 
Cockle & Watson (2). ¢c, T: Irons: W. Cooke. 

Crestep.—Yellow.—l, R. Hawman. 2, Moore & Wynn. vhe,T. Fenn. c¢, T- 
Irons ; Cockle & Watson; Moore & Wynn; T. Fenn. Buf.—1,Moore & Wynn. 
2, Cockle & Watson. vic, Moore & Wynn. he, T. Renn (2). 

GREEN.—1, Mrs. Bothamley, Wisbech. 2, Moore & Wynn. vic, Cockle and 
Watson; T. Fenn. 

JONQUE Crnnamon.—l and 2, T. Irons. ¢. Cockle & Watson. 

Burr_Crinnamon.—l, Moore & Wynn. 2,T.Irons. vic, T. Irons; Moore and 


he, G. Cockle jun., Terrington 


c, Mrs. Hines, 


Blo - 

pane Golderespangledas Cockle & Watson. 2,J.N. Harrison, Belper. 
vhe, R. Hawman; Cockle & Watson. ¢c, S. Benn, Lynn. Silver-spangled.— 
1,J.N. Harrison. 2, Cockle & Watson. vhe, R. Hawman; Cockle & Watson. 
he, J. Cuchbertson, Lynn. zs 

CaGE OF SIx CANARIES.—1 pod 2, pockets & Watson. c, Cockle & Watson: 
Miss Upwood, Terrington St. Clements. 

Gouna ‘oR res Mv1z.—1, H.J. Ims, Bloomsbury, London (Goldfinch 
Mule). 2,T. Fenn (Yellow). he, H. J. Ims (Goldfinch Mule); T. Fenn (Buff). 

GoLDFINCH.—1, J. N. Harrison. 2, Miss Upwood. c, J. T. Mancrief, Wisbech. 

BuLurincH.—1 and 2, Cockle & Watson. : 

Parrot.—l, W. Sharred. 2, Mrs. Blake. c, H. Smith; T. F. Parker; AS 
Newman; S. Snarey. 


Jupers.—Poultry: Mr. W. B. Tegetmeier, London. 
Birds: Mr. W. A. Blakston, Sunderland. 


Singing 


WOLVERHAMPTON POULTRY SHOW. 


Tuts Show was unquestionably good, and most probably, all things 
considered, the best that has yet taken place at Wolverhampton, though 
the arrangements in the limited space of the Agricultural Hall neces- 
sitated a double tier of poultry in all cases instead of a single one, a 
circumstance which detracted considerably from the beauty and easy 
inspection of the various classes. : 

The Dorking cock class stood first on the list, but these birds as a 
whole were not by any means of equal quality to such as haye com- 
peted at the previous Wolverhampton annual meetings, most of them 
showing great want of condition. The hens were decidedly a better 
class throughout, the first-prize being a grand pen, well shown, of 
single-combed dark-feathered birds; the second a rosy-combed pen, 
equally praiseworthy, had not one of the hens been loose-combed. In 
fact, the latter were the larger of the two in pointof frame. The third- 
prize pen, belonging to the Rey. H. Bartrum, was also of good character. 
Docidedly in all varieties the Cuchins shown at Wolverhampton this 
season quite ontvied those ever yet exhibited in the locality, being 
admirableasa class. The unusually good quality of the hens through- 
out was a common remark of fanciers of these breeds; no doubt the 


February 9, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


111 


greater advance in the season caused most of the adult hens to exhibit 
in far better condition than at late meetings. Some excellent Dark 
Brahmas were shown, the hens again having the superiority as to 
general condition. Houdans, almost unknown hitherto at this Show, 
were very good, and in excellent feather. The Créve-Ceurs were 
decidedly better than we have seen for some time past, great care 
being now taken in the selection of brood stock, so as to produce the 
square well-knit bird, so much prized on the table. The Spanish 
classes have been always well filled at the Wolverhampton Show, and 
were not less so this season ; the havoc the late severe frost has made 
with the combs and constitution of the various otherwise capital speci- 
mens competing this year, was, however, painfully apparent. In Game 
fowls most of our best breeders competed; Messrs. Chaloner, Dyas, 
Fletcher, Laming, Matthew, and various others sending first-rate 
pens. Mr. Matthew took both first prizes for pairs of Game, and Mr. 
Fletcher the first prize and silver cup for the best pen of Game, with 
a Black Red hen. The Hamburghs throughout were superior to those 
hitherto shown at Wolverhampton, the Spangled being the better 
represented. Game Bantams were evidently mostly the worse for over- 
exhibition, a few really good pens being sent in so bad a state of 
health that success was hopeless. The cup pen of White Bantams was 
better than most of those recently shown; but perhaps the greatest 
novelty and curiosity in the whole collection was Mr. W. W. Boulton’s 
new variety of Cuckoo Bantams. They were veritable Bantams, and 
of the most perfect Cuckoo colour imaginable. In the Variety class, La 
Fleche were first, Golden Polands second, and Malays third. Out of 
an entry in this class of sixteen pens, all present, only four pens 
remained unnoticed. The largest classes in the Show were the Selling 
classes, and many of these entries were really good, being even far 
superior to those of the usual classes, consequently the sales were very 
general. 

Turkeys, Geese, and Ducks were all good, in fact, at our largest 
shows it is not customary to meet with anything better. In the variety 
Duck class, Mandarins were the first-prizetakers, and Pintails second ; 
Carolinas, Mandarins, and Buenos Ayrean Dacks of first-rate quality 
being compelled to submit to no higher position than a highly com- 
mended. Mr. J. Dixon, of Bradford, and Mr. H. Hewitt, of Birming- 
ham, officiated conjointly as Judges of Poultry; the Pigeon prizes 
being awarded by Mr. W. B. Tegetmeier, of London. 


DorEines.—Cocks.—l, G. Whitcombe, Gloucester. 2, Hon. J. Massy, Hus- 
bands Bosworth. 38, J. L. Lowndes, Hartwell, Hens.—l, G. Whitcombe. 
2, Hon. H. Fitawilliam, Wentworth Woodhouse. 38, Rev. E. Bartrum, Great 
Berkhamstead. he, Miss F. A. Meek, Balcombe; J. Watts, King’s Heath, 
Birmingham; G. Clarke, jun., Long Sutton. ¢, J. Horton, jun., Shirley. 

CocHIN-CHINA (Cinnamon and Buff).—Coceks.—l, J. Watts. 2, H. Lloyd, jun., 
Handsworth. 8, J. Sichel, Timperley. hc, W. A. Burnell, Southwell; W. A. 
Taylor, Manchester (2); R. Dawson, Beverley. c, Earl of Bradford, Weston; 
Lady E. Moreton, Tortworth Court; BE. Thomas, Didsbury. Hens.—1, W. A. 
Taylor. 2, Mrs. Wilkin, Bootle, Carnforth. 8,J. Watts. he, W.A. Burnell; J. 
H. Dawes, Moseley; W. A. Taylor; A. Darby; J. Sichel. c, W. Mas!and, 
Milverton. 

Cocuin-CHINA (Brown and Partridge).—Cock.—1, G. Lamb, Compton. 2, W. 
A. Taylor. 8, J. White, Whitley. he, E. Tudman, Whitchurch; Rev. R. L. 
Story, Lockington; E.Tudman. Hens.—l, W.A.Taylor. 2,E.Tudman. 3, G. 
eam ae J. Stephens, Walsall; R. B. Wood, Uttoxeter; W. A. Taylor; LE. 

Cocuix-Curna (White).—1, J. Sichel. 2, R. Brown, Cheadle Hulme. 3, R. 
eres pene ham. he, Mrs. Waddell, West Derby; C. F. Herrieff, Banbury ; 

. Sichel. 

Brauuss (Dark).—Cocks.—1, Rey. EB. Alder, Etwall. 2, J. Robinson, Gar- 
stang. 3,G.A. Stephens, Dublin. he, G. Bradford, Hanley; G.F. Whitehouse, 
King’s Heath ; Lady BE. Moreton; J. Hill, Brentwood: O. E. Cresswell, Felt- 
ham; H. B. Morrell, Clyro; J. Sichel; J. Watts. Hens.—1 and Cup, G. E. 
Gettins. 2,T. F.Ansdell, St. Helens. 8, Dr. Holmes, Chesterfield. he, Lady 
E. Moreton; H. B. Morrell (2); G. Bradford, Hanley; C. Taylor, Gloucester. 
¢, R. Bailey, Etwall; J. H. Pickles, Southport. 

Braumas (Light).—1, D. Causer, Erdington. 2, A. O. Worthington, Burton. 
3, Rev. N. J. Ridley, Newbury.: he, T. A. Dean, Moreton-on-Lugs; F. Crook, 
Forest Hill. c,J.R. Rodbard, Bristol; W. T. Storer, Brewood; T. A. Dean. 

Hovpans.—Cock.—1 and 3, R. B. Wood. 2, Mrs. J. Cross, Appleby, Brigg. 
we, Hon. J. Massy. -, F. Bennett, Shiffnal. Hens.—l, R. W. Wood. 2, R. B. 
Wood. 3, Hills & Co., Brighton. he, J. Drewry, Burton-on-Trent. 

CrREVE-C@urR.—Cock.—1 and Cup, Mrs. J. Cross. 2,3. Sichel. 8, H. Beldon. 
he, Mrs. E. Williams, Berriew; C. Morris, Grassendale; Rev. N. J. Ridley; C. 
H. Smith, Radcliffe-on-Trent. Hens.—l, J. K. Fowler. 2, C. Morris. 3, J. 
Sichel. he, Hon. H. Fitzwilliam ; H. Beldon. ; 

SpanisH.—l, E. Jackson, Finchfield. 2,3. Walker, Wolverhampton. 8, H.F. 
Cooper, Walsall. lic, J. F. Sillitoe, Wolverhampton (2); J. Walker; R. Davies, 
Chester; M. Egginton, Wolverhampton; E. Jackson; H. Beldon. 

GaME.—Black or Brown Red—Cocks.—l, 8. Matthew. 2, W. M. Sower- 
‘butts, Nantwich. 8, C. Chaloner, Steetly. he, Hon. and Rev. F. Dutton, Bur- 
ford; C. Chaloner; J. Mason, Worcester (Black Red); W. £. Oakeley, Ather- 
stone (2); W.H. Cooke, Worcester (Black); A. B. Dyas, Madeley; E. C, Gil- 
‘bert. Penkridge. Any Variety except Black or Brown Reds.—Cocks.—1, S. 
Matthew (Duckwing). 2, Master W. Fletcher, Stoneclough (Duckwing). 38, J. 
Laming, Spalding (Duckwing). he, C. Chaloner (2); E. Bell, Burton (Duck- 

_ Wing); W. J. Cope, Barnsley (Duckwing); J. Mitchell, Moseley (Duckwing); 
W. Dunning, Newport (Duckwing); J. Laming (Duckwing). Any Varicty.— 
Hens.—1 and Cup, W. Fletcher. 2, C. Chaloner. 8, J. Laming (Black Red). 
he, E. Bell; S, Matthew; W. E. Oakeley; W. Dunning. c, W. H. Cooke (Black 
Red); J. Laming. 

Hamevreus (Gold or Silver-spangled).—Cocks.—1, H. Beldon. 2,J. Buckley, 
Ashton-under-Lyne. 8, T. Boulton (Gold). he, T. M. Derry, Gidney (Silver); 
Rey. W. Sergeantson (Silver); T. Blakeman, Tettenhall (Gold); 1. Boulton 
(Gold); G. F, Whitehouse, King’s Heath (Gold). ¢,T. Boulton (Gold). Hens.— 
land Cup, H. Beldon, 2, N. Marlor, Denton (Gold). 3, J. Buckley (Gold). 

Hamevurcus (Gold or Silver-pencilled).—Cocks.—1, J. H. Arnold, Moseley 
(Gold). 2,H, Pickles, Earby. 8, W.M. Mann, Kendal (Silver). he, H. Beldon. 
ea W. M. Mann (Silver-pencilled). 2, H. Pickles, jun., Earby. 38, H. 

eldon. 

Hampureus (Black).—1 and 8, T. Walker, jun. 2, Rev. W. Sergeantson. 
he, R. Bailey; W. A. Taylor. e 

BantTams.—Game,--1, E. Cambridge, Bristol. 2. R. Swift, Southwell. 8. C. 
Chaloner. he, H. Coley, jun., Neachley Hall; J. Watts; Master Swindell, Ola- 
swinford. White, Clean-legged.—1 and Cup, 8. & R. Ashton. 2, H. Beldon. 
3, Rey. F. Tearle, Gazeley. he, Lady H.Moreton: S. & R. Ashton. ¢, J. Watts; 
S. & R. Ashton. Any variety except Game and Wiite—1, W. W. Boulton, 
Beverley (Cuckoo Bantams). 2, ©. Cambridge (Black). 8, M. Leno, Dunstable 


(Laced). lie, J. Sichel: H. Beldon; Mys. A. Woodcock, Leicester (Japanese): 
H. Draycott, Humberstone (Japanese). c, H. Pickles, jun. (Black); Bell and 
Thorpe, Stratford-on-Avon (Black); J. Watts (Silver-laced); Rev. G. F. Hod- 
son, Bridgwater; W. W. Boulton (Cuckoo Bantams). 

ANY OTHER VaRrety.—l, Hon. C. Fitzwilliam (La Fléche). 2, T. Dean, 
Keighley (Polands), 8, W. B. Payne, Shrewsbury (Malay). hc, G. A. Stephens, 
Dublin; Rey. A. G. Brooke, Shrawardine (Malay); W. Silvester, Sheffield 
(Gold Polands); H. Beldon; Rev. N. J. Ridley (White’ Leghorns); J. Watts 
(Sultans); Miss C. E. Palmer, Lighthorne, Warwick (Scotch Dumpies); W. A. 
Taylor (Cuckoo Cochins). c, Rey. G. F. Hodson (Malay). F 

SELLING CLAss.—Cocks.—l1, R. Chase (White Cochin). 2, H. Yardley, Bir- 
mingham. 8, C. Morris (Créve-Ceur). sic, L. Poynton, Congleton (Dark 
Brahma); W. A. Burnell (Buff Cochin); J. Lord (Buff Cochin); W. Swann, 
Erdington (Buff Cochin); J. R. Rodbard (Spanish); J. Mansell, Longton 
(Spanish); W. H. L. Clare, Twycross (Duckwing) ; Capt. W. G. Webb, Elford 
(Black Game); W, J. Cope (Game) W.E. Oa y (Black Reds); W.Speak- 
man, Nantwich (Gold Hamburghs); I’. Bennett, Shiffnal (Black Hamburghs) ; 
R. M. Lord (Dark Brahma); Mrs. A. Williamson (Light Brahma and White 
Cochin); Hon. J. Massy (Houdan); J. H. Brodwell (Dorking); J. Forsyth, Tetten- 
hall (Black Red); J. Watts; W. Gamon, Chester. c, Rey. N. J. Ridley (Créve- 
Ceeur); D. Lane, Hardwick (Houdan); W. A. Taylor; J. L. Lowndes Porkings: 
Hens.—l, J. Sichel (Olive Cochin), 2, T. Sherratt, Knypersley (Dark Brahmas). 
8, H. Bagshawe, Uttoxeter. he, F. Bennett (Black Hamburgh); W. Birch, 
Barnacle (Black Hamburghs); J. Palmer, Longford (Brown and Partridge 
Cocbins); C. Morriss (Créve-Ceur); W. E. Oakeley (Black Reds); J. Forsyth 
(Black Reds) ; J. Clews, Walsall (Spanish); E. Jackson, Finchfield ; J. Watts (2); 
H. Yardley (2). c, W. A. Taylor; W. A. Burnell-(Buff Cochins); W.Masland 
(Cochins) ; T. M. Derry (Buff Cochins); G. Newdegate (Game Piles); J. Bishop, 
Eyton; R. M. Lord (Dark Brahmas); F, Bennett (Dark Brahmas); J. Robin- 
son, Garstang. 

TuRKEYS.—], Rey. N. J. Ridley. 2, J. Watts. he, Earl of Bradford; I. E. 
Richardson; C. F. Clark, Perton. 

GEESE.— 1, Rev. G. Hustler, Stillingfleet. 2, J. Watts. wc, R. Beckett, Hart- 
ford; J. K. Fowler; 8. H. Stott, Rochdale. 

Ducxs.—Aylesbury.—l and 2, J.K. Fowler. ¢,J. Williams, Walk-upon-Dearne. 
Rouen.—1, J.K. Fowler. 2,W.Gamon. he, C.F. Clark; Miss Davies, Chester ; 
J. White; R. Heigh, Himley; J. White; S.H. Stott. Any other Variety.—l, J. 
Watts (Mandarins). 2, Rev. W. Sergeantson, le, M. Leno (Mandarins) ;, s. 
and R. Ashton (Mandarins); J. E. Morriss, Elmsdale (Mandarina); G.S. Saims- 
pury, Devizes (Black East Indian); Rev. W. Sergeantson. 


PIGEONS, 
2, J. Ford, London. 


ToumBueRs.—l, H. Yardley. he, J. Ford; J. Wilson, 
Aston (2). i a 
Carriers.—l, F. Smith, Birmingham. 2, H. Yardley. he, F. Smith; W. H. 
Mitchell. c, J. Watts. 
PoutErs.—l and 2, W. Gamon._ he, Mrs. Waddell, West Derby. u 
Fanrars.—l, H. Yardley. 2, Rev. W. Sergeantson. he, J. F. Loversidge, 
Newark (2). 


AnTWERPS.—1, H. R. Wright, Hockley. 2, T. Morris, Wolverhampton. he,H. 
Yardley (2); W. H. Mitchell; C. Langman, Bilston. _ 

DnraGoons.—1, W. H. Mitchell. 2, F. Graham, Birkenhead: c, Rev. H. J. 
Stokes, Grindon (2); H. Allsopp, Birmingham; J. Watts (2); F. Graham. 

JACOBINS.—1, W. BE. Easten, Hull. 2,H. Yardley. ce, C.F. Clark. : 

Nuns.—l, T. A. Dean, Moreton-on-Lugg. 2, S.A. Cooper, Walsall. c, F. 
Graham; W.E. Easten; H. Yardley. 

Owxs.—l, J. Fielding, jun., Rochdale. 2,H. Yardley. he, J. Watts. c, 5. A. 


Cooper. r 

Any oTHER Vanrety.—l, F. Smith (Barbs). 2, S. A. Wyllie, East Moulsey , 
(Runts). 8, J.Watts (Norwegian). he, H. Yardley (2); T. J. Ford, Stourbridge ; 
S. A. Wyllie, East Moulsey (Florentines). 


NANTWICH POULTRY SHOW. 


(From Correspondents.) 


Tur eleyenth annual Exhibition was held on the 3rd and 4th inst. 
in the Town Hall, a place well adapted for such an exhibition. The 
Secretary has a thoroughly good working Committee, and is well sup- 
ported in the district, the Hall being filled with visitors. The only 
fault I have to find with the Society is that it restricts the competition 
to exhibitors residing within a radius of thirteen miles from Nantwich. 
When I asked the question, Why restrict your exhibitors to so con- 
fined a district, when you have birds fit to compete against the world? 
the reason given was, Our subscribers would not give anything if they 
thought there was a chance of its leaving the neighbourhood. Now 
this is penny wise and pound foolish, for at the Show just held, if ex- 
hibitors had been drawn from a distance the Society would have been 
benefited, and several of the exhibitors would have obtained many 
pounds for their birds, there being Game fowls entered here at £5 5s. 
each that would haye been snapped up at once. This is a great loss; 
besides, when open, competition gives the inhabitants a chance to com- 
pare their improvements with those of other districts. 

The Show might be almost called an exhibition of Game, and so 
good were the birds that I have not seen a collection like it since the 
great Liverpool Sweepstakes years. Commencing with a class for old 
birds of Black or Brown Reds, a Black Red had the cup; it was of 
most beautiful symmetry, with the real distinct orange hackle and 
saddle, and beautiful violet red shoulder coverts—one that ought to be 
sought after for a brood cock. Second came a Brown Red, nearly, if 
not quite, up to the standard, having a good, long, strong, snake head, 
and a dark-streaked breast, with the beautiful lemon-straw back and 
lemon saddle; shoulder coverts dark brown maroon. The third-prize 
bird was perfect in feather, his only fault being that he was not quite 
large enough. There are but few shows at which he would not have 
stood first, but the collection at Nantwich was so extraordinarily good 
that he had to be placed third. The next class was for stags of any 
colour, for the Society’s silver cup. Here Brown Reds carried all 
before them, although there were some grand Black Reds and Duck- 
wings, but the Judge had such a collection placed before him on a 
raised dais, that he had to stand for some considerable time to admire 
them as a whole before he could bring himself to discard any, saying 
they all ought to have a cup, but he most reluctantly commenced to 
handle and tick off for points some of the finest cockerels shown this 
year. When, however, we consider this is the neighbourhood whence 
all our winning yards of late years have sprung, their excellence is 
not so surprising. The cup cockerel was of that grand type of which 


il 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ February 9, 1871. 


a few examples were seen abont fifteen years ago, but which has been 
almost lost, owing to breeding with the Black Reds and Duckwings. 
A Brown Red has almost a standard for shape different from all other 
Game—much stronger in head and neck, large dark eye, thick from 
breast to back, broad, strong shoulders, with a width in front that is 
hardly admissible in other breeds of Game. In the cup bird we had 
all that was wanted—symmetry and colour to perfection; the second 
and third-prize birds were very little behind; indeed, there was a 
slight difference of opinion which ought to have been first out of the 
three. Many of the highly-commended birds were fit to win anywhere. 
Nantwich is the place I should recommend to all who want fresh blood 
in Brown Reds. 

The class for adult Black Reds was hardly up to the mark, there 
being a want of colour and style; adult Brown Reds were good, the 
only fault being they were a little too heavy. Duckwings and Piles 
were not so good as I conld have desired, most of the Duckwings being 
soft and loose in feather, with the exception of the first-prize bird, 
which had hard, short, good feathers, and colours beautifully blended. 
he Piles were not quite clear enough in their colours. Game hens 
and Black and Brown Reds were a most extraordinary collection. No 
class of hens at any other show during the past year has come near 
them. Black Reds, good in style and colour, were first; they were 
all we want—free from red on the wings, and without the least pen- 
cilling on the ends of their wings. The second and third prizes went 
to Brown Reds, fine in colour, with good black, bold eyes, and of ex- 
cellert symmetry. Black Red cockerels were not up to the standard. 


Of Brown Red chickens (cockerel and pullet), the first, second, and | 


third-prize birds would be treasures to any Brown Red breeder; all I 


can say is they were perfection in colours and of fine shape, leaving | 


no room for improvement. 

Turkeys were poor; of Geese, one pen was up to the mark; Ducks 
were poor; Spanish nowhere; Dorkings, Cochins, Brahmas, and Ham- 
burghs miserable. 


Ts the Pigeons there was a falling-off both in quantity and quality 
as compared with previous years. The supposed cause was that one 
exhibitor, as in former years, had borrowed, or was supposed to have 


borrowed, many birds from a dealer, and the presumed fact caused | 


many fanciers to withhold their support, the Show being really con- 


the Town Hall. I trust if this assumed fact is correct numerous 
fanciers in the district will cause this assumption to be properly venti- 
lated, and will again prove how creditably they can support the 
exertions of the Committee as in years of yore. 

The Cage Birds were a show in themselves. 
indifferent. 


SpantsH.—l, R. Hulse, Winsford. Equal 1, J. Siddorn, Over Lane. 

Bantams.—l, W. Woolley, Bunbury. Sweepstakes.—1, A. Jackson. Game.— 
1, Miss Cawley. 2, R. Ashley. 3, Miss E. Church, Nantwich. 

DoreErves.—l, W. B. Etches, Woodhouse. 

Cocuin-Cuivi—tl, J. G. Pearson, Drayton. 

Braums-Pootra.—l, J. Walker, Keele. 2, J. G. Pearson. 

GamME.—Cock.—Cup, R. Ashley. 2, Galley & Willett, Nantwich. 3. J. Platt, 
Swanlow. Hen—l, J. Platt. 2,R. Ashley. Equal 2, Galley & Willett. vhe, G. 
F. Ward, Wrenbury. fic, J. Platt. Cockerel—Cup, Galley & Willett. 2 and 3, 
W. Sowerbutts, Nantwich. che, R. Ashley (2). he, T. Burgess, Burleydam. 
Black Reds—1,T. Burgess. Chickens.—1, W. Miller, Wyburnbury. 2, R. Ashley. 
Brown Reds.—l, Galley & Willet. 2, T. Burgess. Chickens—1l, Galley and 
Willet. 2,R. Ashley. 3,T. Burgess. The whole class Very Hichly Commended. 
Any other Variety. —1, J.Platt. 2andvhe,R. Ashley. 3. J. Wilkinson. Norbury. 
he, Miss Sadler, Whitchurch. Sweepstake.—1, G. F. Ward. 

Hampurcus.—Pencilled—i, Mrs. Flyn, Hardingswood. 2, W. Speakman, 
Doddington. Spangled—ti, Mrs. Flyn. 2, C. Steele, Crewe. 

SELLING Cuass.—l, G. F. Ward. 

TUREEYS.—1, Miss Roberts, Bunbury Rectory. 

GEESE.—1, Galley & Willett. 2, T. Whittington, Batherton. 
Ducxs.—Aylesbury.—l, Mrs. M. Hornby, Darvhall. Rouen—1,J. Plait. Any 
other Variety. -1, Rey. — Merideth, Burleydam. 


PicEons.—Carriers—l, W. Woolley, Bunbury. 2, J. Chesters, Nantwich. 
he, S. Cliff, Nantwich. Dragoons—l and he, S. Cliff. 2, Messrs. Prince & Pass, 
Nantwich. Pouters.—1,J. Chesters. Barbs.—1and 2, Messrs. Prince & Pass. 
Tumblers—1 and 2, A. J. Boote, Weston. Fantails.—1 and he, J. Chesters. 


Rabbits were only 


2, Messrs. Prince & Pass. Jacobins.—1 and 2, J. Chesters. Trumpeters.— 
1, A.J. Boote. 2,J.Chesters. Nuns.—2, J. Chesters. Owls.—l, E. S. Nixson, 
Nantwich. 2, Messrs.Prince & Pass. Turbits—2, J. Chesters. Any Variety. 


—1, J. Chesters (Runts). 2, W. Woolley (Satinettes). Doves—l, Miss J. H. 
Nixson, Nantwich. 2,J. Hockenhull, Nantwich. Selling Class—1i, A. J. Boote. 


Smvcine Brrps.—Canarres.—Yellow.—1 and 2, S. Williamson, Nantwich. 
Buff—1 and 2, S. Williamson. Crested.—1 and 2, S. Williamson. Norwich.— 
1, S. Williamson. 2, H. Bowyer, Nantwich. Any Variety.—l, S. Williamson 
Brown Lrynets.—l, H. Timmis, Walgherton. 2, R. Williamson, Nantwich! 
GoLprincHEs.—l and 2, S. Williamson. Skynarks.—l and 2, R. Williamson’ 
BULLFIncHES.—1, S. Williamson. 2, H. Timmis. 7 


ite Mrs. Forster, Nantwich, 11}1bs. 2, P. P. Johnson, Nantwich, 
+} LDS. 

JupcEs.—Poultry : Mr. Douglas, Clumber Park, Worksop ; Pigeons, 
Cage Birds, and Rabbits: Mr. Ridpeth, Outwood Hall, Handforth. 


Povtrry SHow At NortrHampron.—In order to encourage the 
Spanish and Dorking fanciers, I have opened subscription lists for 
two silver cups as extra prizes in the above classes. Any exhibitors or 
admirers of these breeds wishing to subscribe towards the cups will 
please forward their subscriptions to me as early as conyenient.— 
F. Saspace, 17, Broad Street, Northampton. 


Baups anp Besrps.—Mr. W. J. Woodhouse says he will show a 
pen of his Baldheadsand Beards at the National Peristeronic Society's 


Show, to be held at the Crystal Palace on the 14th of February, and } 


eave whe Z 3 i | he, R. Dickie, B side, Alva; A. Hoggart., 
fined to members and exhibitors within a radius of thirteen miles from | “Yj SBSH ardieoaWae et 


| Beattie, Selkirk (Brahma Pootra). 


will give to any person £50 sterling if he can show a pen like them 
for quality. 


SELKIRK POULTRY SHOW. 


Ar this Show, held on the Ist and 2nd inst., there were upwards of 
250 entries of poultry and Pigeons. The awards were as follow:— 


SPaNIsH —1 and Cup, D. Waugh, Melrose. 2, J. Oliver, Choppington New 
Row, Morpeth. 3, H. Wilkinson, Earby. 2 

DorEwes.—l, D. Gellatly, Meigle. 2, J. Logan, Eastshield, Carnwath. 3, W. 
G. Mulligan, Springfield, Belfast. Chickens.—1, D. Gellatly, Meigie. 2, W. 
Reekie, Selkirk. 3, W. Bearpark, Ainderby Steeple. he, Z. H. Heys, Barrhead. 

Cocuts-Cutna.—1, R. Hine, Bedlington, Morpeth. 2, J. Pollock, Busby, 
Glasgow. 8, Com. G.F. Lyon, Kirkmichael, Dumfries. he, W- Linton, Selkirk. 

Branwa Pootra.—t, J. Cowman, Whitehaven. 2, W. Brownlee. Kirkcaldy. 
3, Com. G. F. Lyon. he, W. G. Mulligan; J. Cowman; Miss Drummond, 
Megginch Castle, Errol; D. Rutherford, Selkirk. _ 

uRGHS.—Golden-pencilled.—l, A. Pratt, Kirkcaldy. 2and3, W.R. Park, 
Abbotsmeadow, Melrose. he, Lady M. Scott, Bowhill; J. Nicholson, jun., Car- 
lisle; H. Pickles, jun. c, R. Blakeburn, Choppington New Row. Silver- 
pencilled.—1 and 2, H. Pickles, jun. 3, RK. Blakeburn. _Golden-spangled.—1, J. 
Ogden, Hollinwood. 2, A. Heatlie, Selkirk. 3, R. Dickson, Selkirk. c, H. 
Pickle jun. Silver-spangled.—1 and Cup, Ashton & Booth, Broadbottom, 
Mottram. 2, W. R. Park, Melrose. 3, G. J. Campbell, New Pitsligo. lic, J. 
Nicholson, jun., Carlisle. : : 

Game (Any variety).—1 and Cup, J. W. Will, Errol. 2, D. Hardie, Priesthaugh. 
8, A. Ormiston, Kelso (Duckwings). Chickens.—1, A- Dewar, Linton, Cluny. 
2, T. W. Mitchell, Perth. 8, W. Chalmers, Leslie. he, J. Blair, Blairnigone-. 
Dollar (Brown Red). 

Game Bantaxs.—Black or Brown Red—1,G Hall. Kendal. 2, Z. H. Heys, 
Barrhead. 3, G. Todd, Sunderland. he, D. Hardie (Black Red); H- Kirsopp- 
Bathgate (Black Red); W. Brownlee, Kirkcaldy (Black Red); A. C. Lang, Sel- 
kirk (Black Red). c, W. Goddard, Earlston (Black Ked). Any other. Variety.— 
1, J. Craw, Jedburgh (Duckwing). 2, Bellingham & Gill, Woodfield, Burniey. 
3, J. Stable, Great Driffield (Pile). hc, W. Brownlee (Duckwing); Bellingham 
and Gill; G. Macmillan, Jedburgh (Pile), c, G. Stalker, West Sleekburn 
(Duckwing). x aie 

Banxtaus.—Any other variety than Game.—i, Master A. Frew, Sinclairtown 
(Pine Silver-laced). 2, T. C. Harrison, Hull. 3, J. Archibald, Earlston (Japanese). 
he, H. Yardley, Birmingham (Gold-laced); H. Pickles, jun. (Black). Any 
Variety —Cock.—1, Bellingham & Gill. 2, J. Ferry, Cowpen, Morpeth (Brown 
Red). 8, W. Scott, Jedburgh (Duckwing). he, E. Douglas, Selkirk; W. Brown, 
Selkirk (Black Red). 3 

ANY OTHER VaRIETY.—1, W. R. Park (Créve-Ceur) 
Yorkshire (Polands). 3, W. Bearpark (Silver Polands). 
Tedd, Sunderland (Créve-Ceur); H. Pickles, jun. (Polands) ; 


and Black Hamburghs). ai = 
BaRNDOOR Fow.s—1, W. Reekie, Selkirk. 2, J. Scott, Newhall, Lilliesleaf. 
2,D. Hardie. 3, J. Scoit, Newhall. 


8, Com. G. F. exons a Cana 
DR Dickie, Burnside Alvar A HG Ne PaTealies G. Dryden, Selkirk. Rouen. 
—land 3, D. Hardie. 2, W. G. Mulligan. a 
CorracEers’ Chass (Any variety).—l, D. Waugh, Melrose (Spanish). 
3, J. Laidlaw, Langholm (Spanish). 
Brown, Melrose (Spanish); R. Hogg, Selkirk (Silver-spangled); T. Hoge, Sel- 
kirk (Silver-spangled); T. Smith, Selkirk (Golden-pencilled); W. Riddell, Sel- 
kirk (Dorking). E x 4 
SELLING CLass.—l, W. Linton, Selkirk (Créve-Cceur). 2, T. W. Mitchell. 
Perth (Brown Red Game). 38, D. Gellatly, Meigle (Dorking). fic, W. Grice, 
Bootle. c, J. Craw, Jedburgh (Duckwing). 


2, T. Dean, Keighley, 
he, Z. H. Heys: G. 
J. Logan (Houdans 


2 o- 
he, T. 


2, J.G. Spence. he, A. Crosbis, Melrose; H. Yardley. 


JupcE.—Mr. Richard Teebay, Fulwood, Preston. 


PRIZE LISTS FOR CARRIER PIGEONS. 


Havyrxe until last autumn been absent from England for 
some years, I am surprised at the prize lists for Carriers not 
being so extensive, 1 may say, as they were. This is to be 
regretted, but more especially the system now in force, except 
at one or two large shows, of exhibiting in pairs. Now, every 
Carrier fancier knows this is a very difficult thing to accom- 
plish, for I believe, as a rule, no fancier breeds from two Blacks 
or two Duns. There may be exceptions of course. Then, 
again, it does not follow that the two best show birds would be 
those you match to breed from, and you cannot risk the fight 
that will take place on putting odd birds unmated into the same 
pen. If committees cannot afford to increase the lists, why not 
divide the sum into prizes for single cocks and single hens, as 
with Pouters? Iam sure that exbibiting in pairs deters many 
from showing. I should be glad if some of yonr readers would 
give their views on this point. My own idea is, that the pair- 
system does not tend to the advantage of either committees or 
exhibitors.—I’. C. Hassarp. 


THE FANTAIL PIGEON. 


In No. 502 there is an article on the Fantail Pigeon, which, 
after enumerating the many points good birds of this breed 
ought to possess, leaves out one of the most important, that of 


February 9, 1871. JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 113 


size. As regards this, they cannot be tco small; and I dis- 
agree with the writer as to their being hardy birds, as the finer 
the quality the more tender they are. As we are referred to 
the illustration, it is full of errors. The head is far too round, 
it ought to be long, and the neck about half the thickness at 
the part where the head is set on. As the body is in profile, 
and the tail more than three-quarter view, it is twisted—-a grave 
fault in a Fantail. Taking it altogether, I should consider the 
bird figured exceedingly coarse, and of but little value. The 
number of feathers in the tail of a high-bred small Fantail 
seldom exceeds thirty-two. The shaking of the neck is a point, 
and is indispensable. Why should Blacks, Blues, and Silvers 
have pearl eyes, and Yellows and Reds be doubtful? What is 
xight for one is right for the other, at least so says—PRIZETAKER. 


UNITED KINGDOM RABBIT CLUB. 


In reference to the remarks made in your paper of January 
26th by Mr. M. Millington, of York, the Nottingham Fancy 
Rabbit Society fully appreciates, and will be most happy in 
assisting to form, a ‘' United Kingdom Rabbit Club,” and to 
have a paid Secretary, to fix upon the different classes, like- 
wise the number of prizes, and to correspond with each of the 
poultry show committees throughout the United Kingdom. 
We ave confident of this, that if Rabbit fanciers were to unite 
throughout the United Kingdom it would put an end to all 
jealousy. I may also add, on behalf of the Nottingham Fancy 
Rabbit Society, that we shall be glad to co-operate in any 
scheme such as that suggested by Mr. Millington.—JoszrH 
Parker, Secretary, Woodlark Inn, Nottingham. 


COLCHESTER AND PORTSMOUTH RABBIT 
PRIZES. 


Iy answer to Mr. Millington’s observation; ‘‘I am surprised the 
fancy-variety men who have written so much upon the injustice done 
to the variety classes at most shows, should now praise the one-sided 
list from Colchester, where only £3 are offered for the Lops in one 
class, £9 going to the fancy varieties ’’—that is, Himalaya, Angora, 
and any other variety—I cannot see anything one-sided about this, 
but I consider it one-sided when about five times as great a sum is 
offered to one breed as to another, as at York and Portsmouth. There 
are about six distinct breeds of the fancy kinds that are shown, and to 
compare them as one class to the Lops is quite unreasonable. 

Mr. Millington looks at the value of the Lops, but Committees do 
not—they generally put the classes as they think they will pay best. 
Now, at the York Show, of which Mr. Millington was a judge and 
manager, they offered to the Lops the sum of £17 10s. in five classes, 
and had forty-five entries at 2s. each, making £4 10s. To the ill-used 
fancy varieties they only offered £4 15s. (calling the medal £1), in only 
three classes, and had forty-five entries, paying them £4 10s., being 
within 5s. of the prizes offered. 

I suppose the Colchester Committee haye seen this, and because 
they haye put the fancy kinds upon the same footing as the Lops, and 
they are praised for it, Mr. Millington calls us one-sided, and main- 
tains that the: prize-schedule of Portsmouth is the best. Now, at 
Portsmouth they have four or five classes for Lops—first prize, 15s. ; 
second, 10s.; and two silver cups; entrance 2s. per pen. The varieties 
have to be content with a paltry prize of 10s. ; entrance 2s., just the same 
as for Lops, for which one breed about eight times the value of prizes 
is offered as to the six breeds of fancy varieties. Lastly, Mr. Milling- 
ton says the Colchester Committee will find out their mistake when 
the entries close; to which I reply, we must wait till both shows are 
oyer and compare the entries.—Jas. Boyin, sun., Blackburn. 

P.S.—A few words in answer to Mr. Millington’s note on my Rabbit 
kindling after the York Show. Mine is not the only case; I have had 
letters from Mr. E. E. M. Royd and Mr. A. L. Rawstron, whose 
Rabbits kindled as did mine. Mr. Millington says, that I in “‘ careful 
haste put both Rabbits together.” I defy anyone to put two Rabbits 
in a compartment measuring 13 inches long, 6} inches broad, and 
3 inches deep, which are the dimensions of each of the four com- 
partments in which the Himalayans were sent. I hear the fancy 
Kinds haye to be shown singly next year.—J. B. 


SILVER CUPS AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE 
CANARY SHOW. 


Mr. SransFrexp writes me that he is suffering from an attack of 
perpendicularity of the capillary tubes on the summit of his cranium 
consequent upon my call to. him to “‘wire in.” Let me assure him 
the symptoms are not very dangerous. My hair often stands on end, 
in fact it has a habit of doing so when what there is left of it looks in 
the glass and sees how the frost and snow have altered its colour. 
Speaking technically, I should say it has ‘“‘run” very much. I have 
zead his note incorrectly. The idea he wished to convey was, not 


that he had received one hundred subscriptions, but had about one 
hundred applications to make. Happy man! £3 3s. to raise among 
one hundred fanciers, all eager to contribute to the cup—exactly 71d. 
and 6-25ths of a farthing each; say 1s. 3d., and there will be a cup 
for the ‘‘ Any other variety of Mule” also, a class which, I repeat, is 
to a naturalist one of the most remarkable in the Show. Mr. Bailey 
(Purfleet Bailey, not he of Thirsk), what are you about that you are 
not gleaning for a cup for the Foreign Bird classes? ‘‘ Wire in,” 
there is plenty of time.—W. A. Buaxston. 


FOUL BROOD. 


From reading in page 77 the article of your esteemed corre- 
spondent ‘‘R. S.” I have been induced to make the following 
remarks. First, I have two hives which were supplied with 
dried combs taken from a foul-brood stock five and six years 
ago, which have given on an average 80 Ibs. of comb annually 
from that time, and which are and have remained free from foul 
brood ever since. Notwithstanding the difference of opinion 
as to the cause of foul brood, we are all agreed that its conse- 
quences are fatal unless a speedy manipulation of the hive 
takes place, and that its fatal effects fall on the young larve. 
Now I may ask, What is the disease? Is it an epidemic caused 
by the inhalation of some disease-germ, or by inoculation, com- 
mencing externally, eating its way inwardly until the intestines 
are reached, thus causing death and corruption? Or is it caused 
by fungi and the germs of disease being equally spread in 
wax and honey, or by improper food acting in some way pre- 
judicially to the larve? This last cause is in my opinion the 
most likely one—nay, in fact the effects point to this. If we 
examine the brood of a diseased hive we can at once recognise 
a marked difference in its appearance from that of a healthy 
stock, having a more corpulent appearance, and in many cases 
signs of flatulency; at all events the lary when under the 
microscope present the appearance of having suffered, if they 
possess that sense, as their internal organs are wasted away 
and look as if they had burst, whilst in healthy larve at the 
same stage these organs can all be completely traced. These 
experiments were, however, made for my own amusement, and 
no notes being taken at the time I cannot now explain them 
satisfactorily. 

As to the question whether unsealed honey, or sealed and 
unsealed honey mixed, produce fermentation, this I answer in 
the positive; and on the same ground do I condemn the re- 
moval of unsealed combs from a hive and extracting honey with 
the centrifugal machine. In every case in which I have drained 
the honey from a diseased hive it has shown signs of more or 
less fermentation, and in every case where this honey has been 
given to bees it has produced disease. 

In regard to the case described by ‘‘A RENFREWSHIRE BEE- 
KEEPER,” and remarked enby ‘'R.S5.,’’ I have noticed it often, 
and in some instances have observed the lid of the cell lifted off, 
and the mouldy substance showing round the edge. The prac- 
tice of preserving such is by no means uncommon in this 
locality, but I regret to say where it is practised the apiary is 
more diseased than otherwise. With regard to weak hives 
mentioned by ‘‘R.S.” as having dead bees in spring or autumn, 
any ill effects which may follow do not in my opinion arise in 
any way from the dead bees, but rather from what honey they 
contain having undergone a chemical change in the same 
manner as described by ‘‘ A RENFREWSHIRE BEE-KEEPER,”’ 

I had a chat with an old bee-keeper of fifty years’ standing, 
who maintained that the disease originated from not mixing 
whiskey with their food; so long as he knew this practised no 
disease was known. The cure of foul brood by medicine is, I 
think, difficult, but perhaps not impossible—A DLanarxsaiRE 
BEE-KEEPER, 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Booxs (J. C.).—‘ The Poultry-keepers’ Manual” has coloured plates, 
price 5s, ‘The Poultry Book for the Many” is 6d. If you enclose sixty- 
six stamps with your address, and four extra for postage of the first, and 
one stamp for postage of the second, you can haye both free by post from 
our Office. 

Dorxine LAyIne wits Dirricutty (C. M.)—Do you mean three eggs 
per month or per week? She sits on the nest till she has laid her egg, 
and it ig probable the roughness of the shell causes the difficulty in doing 
so; at any rate it is not anatural state. We advise you to give castor 
oil, a tablespoonful every other day, and to use Bnily’s pills. Give barley- 
meal or ground oats with the pickings and scraps. Discontinue maize- 
meal and buckwheat, both are too fattening. - 

Buack BAanram Cocx’s Tar (Amateur).—It is not an edyantage for a 
Game Bantam cock to carry his tail erect, nor to be very full-feathered. 
The tail should be scanty of feathers, and be carried rather down than 
otherwise. We should prefer No. 1. 


114 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ February 9, 1871. 


MARKING Poubtay (Lemon Buf’)—You do not say whether you want a 
mark to be recognised only by yourself, or whether it may be visible to 
all. Inthe latter case nothing is better than a piece of coloured cloth 
sewn round the leg, different colours marking different broods. Ifitisto 
be a private mark, it may be on the beak or eyelid, or, easier still, marked 
with a red-hot iron in the web of the wing—thus,.. «+ -> ‘. : ,and 
soon. Being made with a red-hot instrument the holes do not fill up, 
and are not to be seen unless they are looked for by some one who 
knows where they are. 


SpanrsH Cocks’ Faces (Young Beginner).—Ii the cock is suffering from 
a cauliflower face, as it is called, on account of its resemblance to that 
vegetable, the best thing we know of is powdered alum, as it penetrates 
into the cracks and dries them up. Weknowno work that treats of these 
points. The face will never heal till you are able to keep it dry; the 
weeping turns it brown wherever it touches. 


CrossInc Fowts For TaBLE Usk (Irish Subseriber).—If you wish for 
choice poultry, keep pure Dorkings. If you cross at all, cross with 
Brahmas, by putting a Brahma cock to Dorking hens. It is not well to 
put Houdans with Dorkings, because they are non-sitters. The Houdan 
is a better table fowl than the Brahma. 

BREEDING TURKEYS (H. F.).—Turkeys, like all poultry, should lay on 
the ground. The hens begin laying from the middle of March to the end pf 
April and later. It is of no use to keep a pair of Turkeys. Having satis- 
fied yourself his services are no longer necessary, separate them. If 
you leave them together it is probable you will have no eggs, because he 
will kill the hen. Itis an unwise thing to keep a cock unless you have 
several hens. > ‘ 


Dorxkiné PuLLets’ Lecs PARALYSED (Mrs. B).—The pullet is probably 
suffering from an injury to the back, and it will be some time beiore she 
recovers. You need not keep her before the fire. Put her in a dry, 
covered place free from draught and damp, and supply her with Sussex 
meal and some sods of growing grass, cut with plenty of earth. The 
supply of eggs will depend on ths age of the fowls. All the pullets will 
lay within a fortnight if they have passed the age of six months, ex- 
cepting the Polands, they lay later. Brahma and Cochin pullets lay 
earlier than others. It is not in the nature of hens to lay in the winter. 


Barrow Povuttry SHow.—In the class for Game cockerels, the cup 
was awarded to Mr. J. Mason, St. John’s, Worcester. 


PrymoutH Pouttry SHow (MW. Deacon).—Write to the Secretary again, 
and say that if the birds or the money be not sent to you within a week 
you will instruct your solicitor to proceed in the County Court for their 
recovery. 


Manay Prizes AT NonTHAMPTON.—Mr. William Humphreys, 30, New- 
land, Northampton, Secretary to the Show, will be very pleased to receive 
contributions and devote the same to the object mentioned by the Rev. 
A. G. Brooke, and will duly advertise the special prize in this Journal if 
one be subscribed for before the entries cloze, March Ist. 


Eee in Eae (J. Palmer).—This monstrosity frequently occurs. 


Comes oF DorziInes (4n Inquirer).—The comb of a Dorking hen 
shonld fall over; that of a cock should be upright. It is a grave fault for 
it to turn even at the back. Eggs may be left with impunity during a 
day in summer, but if a hen deserts them in such weather as this for 
twelve hours, 

“All the king’s horses and all the king’s men 
Can’t set Humpty Dumpty up again.” 

Brauma’s LAyinc IntERmrTeED (C. W.L.).—It is more than probable 
your fowls are egg-bound. Pullout a tail feather, dip it in oil fill it is 
perfectly saturated, then pass it down the egg-passage till it meet the 
egg. It will give relief, and the hen will make an effort; do not attempt 
to assist her, but continue to lubricate the passage. Their food is too 
fattening; give ground oats slaked with water morning and evening, 
maize and barley alternately for the midday meal. 


IncuBatToR (Dorking),—We cannot give you any relative information. 
We never knew anyone who had purchased an incubator who did not 
find that the money was thrown away. 


Fowis HuNcHBACKED (G, B.).—You are mistaken when you say your 
pirds are of the purest strain, if by that you mean the best strain. If 
they have any pretension at all to breed, it goes back for some years, 
because although it is pot uncommon for Hamburghs and Polands when 
they are in-bred to produce hunchbacked chickens, still they are the 
exceptions. If you have four all affected in that way, they are either 
hopelessly out-bred, or they are the drafts from some yard sadly in want 


of fresh blood. There is no cure for it, and itis always hereditary. You 
must not breed from them. 


DvuBpine (Poussin). —Apply to Messrs. Baily, 118, Mount Street, 
Grosyenor Square. 

Hive For TAKING Honey 1n Supers (Z. D.).—Payne’s improved cot- 
tage hive, described in pages 7 and 8 of the last edition of “ Bee-keeping 
for the Many,” but of somewhat larger dimensions, is cheap and will 
answer your purpose yery well, as will also the Stewarton hive, manu- 
factured by Mr. R. Eaglesham, Stewarton, Ayrshire. The Woodbury 
frame hive is the best adapted for scientific and experimental bee-keep- 


ing, and may be seen and bought at Messrs. Neighbours’, 149, Regent 
Street, and 127, High Holborn, London. 


Woopsury Htyxs (WW. 0.).—Apply to Messrs. Neighbour, Regent Street, 
“ Bee-keeping ” will suit you; you can have it free by post from our office 
if you enclose five post-office stamps with your address. 


Rapsir InsuRn» (Anthony).—Hold her by the hind legs and strike her 
at the back of the hend, it deprives the animal of sensation instantly. 


TREATMENT OF Parrots (Paterfamilias).—As to food, cut stale bread 
in slices and pour warm water over it, let it soak awhile, squeeze it as 
dry as possible, then allow it to absorb as much fresh-boiled milk as it 
will without beiig very moist. Thisis the staple food; sometimes give 
biscuits treated in the same way. Indian corn is good, but must be 
boiled first and drained of the water; nuts occasionally, and fruit in 
season. Fill their pan with food. As to drink, give clean water, and in 
summer a bath, which, if they can be induced to take it, is a great benefit, 
and makes them look nicely. The constant pecking the feathers is owing 
to the bird haying, or haying had, bones given it. We have known Par- 
rots pluck themselves entirely bare, as if for the spit, owing to ment and 
bones, which ought neyer to be given them, as they cause irritation of 


the skin and heat the bird, The bird is a vegetable-eater, not a meat- 
eater. If it were summer a slight sprinkling of tepid water from a fine 
watering-pot or syringe would comfort the skin, but that would not do 
now. In regard to teaching, have the bird alone with you, and repeat the 
same word or phrase over and over again. If you cover its cage when 
receiving its lesson it will listen all the more attentively. Whistle the 
same tuneinlike manner. Keep the bird warm, and give it as much sun- 
shine as possible. A cold winter kills hundreds of Parrots. With gentle- 
ness and kindness you may effect much. Unfortunately children and 
servants often tease or frighten them; both are bad. Sifted gravel it 
should have. Keep bird and cage very clean. Mind the Parrot’s feet are 
carefully washed from impurities. Get the bird’s confidence,and you 
will succeed with your pet, and find it a pleasure. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN, SquaRE, LoNDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Darr. 9 AM. { In THE Day. 
one P |Shade Tem-| Radiation : 
1871. gro Hygrome- | Direc- | Temp.| perature. |Temperature 4 
Sets ter. tion of | of, Soil|_— ——- == | aaa 
Feb. | 3234 |———|| Wind. | at 1 ft. | | In ; On 
Asa | Dry.| Wet. | Max.! Min. | Sun. Grass. 
deg. | deg. | deg. | In. 
We. S.E. 294 | 38.4 26.5 | 0.018 
‘Thy 2 W. 82.1 | 42.2 | 813 = 
Fri. 3: S$.E. 33.4 | 43.4 33.2 | 0.210 
Sat. 4 $.E. 85.6 | 58.3 | 35.0 | 0.055 
Sun, 5 S.W. 41.0 | 648 | 40.0 | 0.122 
Mo. 6 | 29.853 N.W. 43.2 | $8.2 | $9.8 - 
Tu. 7 | 30,190 E. 89.0 | 49.8 | 84.9 | 0.311 
Means | 29.911 86.38 | 55.0 | 34.4 | 0.711 
REMARKS. 


1st.—Overcast in the morning, drizzle throughout the day, with a wet fog. 

2nd.—Cloudy throughout the day. 

8rd.— Overcast in morning, rain during the day, ceasing at 7 P.M. 

4th.—-Clondy all day except at noon, rain between 7 and § P.M. 

5th,—Fair in morning, southerly gale begun at noon, rain in eyening, but 
fine after 8 P.M. 

6th.—Beautiful day, both warm and bright. 

7th.—Cloudy throughout, with heavy rain-after noon. 

ERRATUM.—The mean dry bulb reading for last week was misprinted as 
36.1, it should have been 30.7. 

The week just ending has been much warmer than any other of the 
present year, but even it is very little above the average, and the soil 
yemains remarkably cold. The prevalence of cloud, which has attracted 
so much attention, still continues—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—FEsBRvUARY 8. 


Owrne to the fayourable change in the weather we have had a better 
supply of out-door produce, and the improyement noticed last week has 
been maintained. Of choice vegetables the quantity is still limited, 
although we have been able to procure some from St. Malo and that 
neighbourhood. Pears comprise Beurré de Rance, Easter Beurré, Ne 
Plus Meuris, and Jean de Witte; Appies— Ribston Pippin, Nonpareil, 
Court of Wick, Newtown Pippin, and others. The Potato trade report 
large supplies. 


FRUIT. 

8,d. 8. d s. d. 3. 
Apples..seceseeeeed Sieve 1 0 t02 0| Mulberries.....00+.-1b. 0 O0t00 0 
Apricots... .doz. 0 0 O O| Nectarines.. ..doz 00 0 0 
Cherries... --- lb. 0 0 0 O| Oranges... e100 6 0 10 0 
Chestnuts........ bushel 10 0 18 6| Peaches .......--...doz, 00 0 0 
Currants.....+6 i 0 0 O O| Pears,kitchen......doz, 10 2 0 
Black do. 00 00 dessert..........doz, 2 0 4 0 
12S ..e0e 0 0 0 0} Pine Apples c bee 8.0 
Filberts 0 0 2.0) Plums..... 00 00 
Cobs..... wecesee lb, 2.0 2 6| Quinces .... at (ono 707.0 
Gooseberries......quart 0 0 0 0| Raspberries.. Ib. 0 0 O O 
Grapes, Hothouse.... 1b. 5 0 10 0| Strawberries Seoe LD UU On 0 
Lemons.. 6 0 10 0} Walnuts bushell10 0 16 0 
Melons.. 10 ¢0 do... « p100 10 20 

VEGETABLES. 

s.d. 8. @ ad. 8. a 
0 O0to0 0} Leeks 0 4to0 0 
7 0 10 0| Lettuce .. 10 20 
20 ‘8 0 10 26 
00 00 02 00 
eeeeee 7 20 8 O 460 70 
Broccoli ........ bundle 0 9 1 6 04 00 
Brussels Sprouts..sieve 8 0 4 0 80 60 
Cabbage... doz. 10 20 OD a0 
Capsicums .#100 00 O00 oo 00 
Carrots.... bunch 0 4 O 8 0 90 40 
Cauliflower .doz 20 6 0 Kidney 80 40 
1 6 2 0| Radishes. yt the) 
8 0 6 Oj Rhubarb 019) 2G 
16 8 0} Savoys. TG 2.0 
06 0 O 0} Sea-kale 20 20 
2 0 0 07} Shallots.. 06 O06 
0 8 0 0} Spinach...... 80 5 0 
0 8 0 0} Tomatoes cece Seca 
0 8 © 0} Turnips’.......... bunch 0 6 O 0 
Horseradish ..,, bundle 8 0 65 0| VegetableMarrows..doz, 0 0 0 0 


POULTRY MARKET.—Feprvary 8. 
MopERATE supply and sluggish trade. There has been buying for 
transmission to Paris, but there are still difficulties in getting goods into 
the city if they are intended for sale. 


Febraary 16, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


WEEKLY CALENDAR. 


Day | Day Meeraretlomner aa | | Clock i | 
i BR 7 ag pera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s | ,20C% ay 
Moon ae FEBRUARY 16—22, 1871. ture near London. |43 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets. ge. | perone att 
Day. |Night./Mean,| Days. | m. h.|m. h.| m. h.| mh. Days. | m 38. 
16 | TH | Meeting of Royal and Linnean Societies. 47.0 | 50.6 | 38.8 11 14af7 | 14 af5 | 33 afd | 26 af 1 28 14°19 | 47 
17 E | 46.6 | 80.6 | 38.6 17 12 7/16 5/25 6 | 36 2 DT 4 215 48 
18 Ss ) 45.2 | 381.1 | 38.2 17 1 27 )18 5 4 7 | BLES) 28 | 14 10 49 
19 | Sun | QuinquaGcEsrMA SUNDAY. | 44.9 | 81.0 | 37.9 15 De al L9e BN S671 i8h) 5 @ 14 5] 50 
20 M Meeting of Entomological Society, 7 p.m. 45.5 | 30.7 | 88.1 14 hs AiR ARE Oe | 24 6 Th | a3 $3). Gk 
21 Tu Meeting of Zoological Society, 9 p.m. 46.7 82.3 | 89.5 20 STM eotee DN Gakin OulkO ae 7 Bh velbalb} Gp) 52 
22 | W Meeting of Society of Arts, § p.u. 46.8 | 31.9 | 89.8 19 Sie 25) @ Sy BOrer Sr 481 98 8 | 18 45) 58 
| | | | 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the 
ture 81,2°. 1 


The greatest heat was 59°, on the 16th, 1847; and the lowest cold 2°, on the 17th, 1855. 


average day temperature of the week is 46.1°, and its night tempera- 
The greatest fall of rain was 0.51 inch. 


ORCHARD HOUSE MANAGEMENT. 


Spams HERE is no garden structure so easily ma- 
\ Zh naged, and yet so full of interest, as the 

aN orchard house. It has this advantage also—it 

te can be erected at less expense than most 
#} other glazed structures. Let it not be im- 
plied from this that a cheap structure is the 
hest, or even the cheapest in the end. If the 
work is substantial it will require a very 
small outlay to keep it in repair during the 
as : first twenty-five years; whereas a house 
built of inferior materials and iil-constructed will perhaps 
require considerable outlay after the first eight or ten 
years. 

The original idea of an orchard house was a glass 
erection of the most primitive construction, to protect 
Peaches, Nectarines, Pears, and other fruit trees from 
spring frosts while in blossom, and to ripen the fruit 
better and at a less cost than can be done on walls. 
Whether fruit can be grown in an orchard house at a less 
cost I cannot say, but Iam inclined to think that it can; 
that it can be grown of better quality in most cases there 
can be little doubt. Another obvious advantage is, that 
a crop of fruit can be obtained the second season after 
the house is built, with a small expenditure for trees. I 
have purchased Peach and Nectarine trees one year from 
the bud, and after growing them one season in pots, they 
have borne a crop of from one to two dozen of fine fruit. 
The trees must be carefully attended to during the grow- 
ing period, but it is interesting work, and after a few 
lessons can be performed by unskilled hands as well as 
by the properly-trained gardener. Most gardeners are 
aware that to have a wall of Peach and Nectarine trees 
in good health and fertility, much care and attention are 
required; and after sufficient experience of a practical 
nature with both systems I can safely say that working 
in the orchard house is a much more agreeable occupation 
than attending to the requirements of wall trees. 

The orchard house, to be effectual, should be heated in 
some way ; hot-water pipes are the best means of applying 
artificial heat. The house here is a span-roofed structure, 
24 feet wide by 12 high, and four rows of 4-inch pipes are 
required to keep out the frost during the time the blossoms 
are expanding. About the first week in January we 
manage to give the glass and woodwork a thorough wash- 
ing ; four hundred pots of Strawberries are then brought 
in and placed on a shelf, which extends all round the 
house near to the glass. Peaches and Nectarines are also 
brought in, and arranged more closely than they will 
ultimately be during the growing period. Some of the 
varieties do not set their fruit freely ; these, with some of 
the others, will be removed out of doors to ripen the fruit 
after all danger from frost is over, and it is well not to 
risk the trees out of doors until the end of May or the 
beginning of June. I placed a number of pot trees of 
Peaches and Nectarines out of doors in a somewhat shel- 
tered position in the first week of May last year, when the 
fruit were as large as horse beans; frosty nights set in, and | 

No. 516.—Von. XX., New SERIES, : 


6° of frost on the 9th of May blackened and destroyed all 
the young fruit. The heating medium is not only required 
on frosty nights, but is equally useful in cold dull weather, 
as the circulation of air which it creates facilitates the 
setting of the fruit. As soon as this is fairly set ply the 
syringe vigorously amongst the trees night and morning, 
and on the first appearance of aphides give the house a 
good “dressing” with tobacco smoke, and continue to do 
so until they are destroyed. 

Water the trees with clear water until the end of May, 
when occasional waterings with weak liquid manure will 
be beneficial. The trees ought also to be fed by surface- 
dressings applied for the first time in June. A good mix- 
ture for this purpose consists of half-decayed horse drop- 
pings, cow manure, and loam in equal proportions ; a couple 
of handsful of this spread over the surface of each pot, 
and lightly pressed down, will soon bring the roots to the 
surface. This surface-dressing may be applied two or. 
three times at intervals of three weeks. From the middle 
of May until the fruit is gathered all fruit trees in pots 
require abundant supplies of water at the roots, as if they 
suffer from want of that most necessary element at this 
time there will be no fine fruit. The same remark applies 
to Strawberries in pots; as soon as their trusses of flowers 
are thrown up it is not easy to overwater them. Some 
growers stand the pots in saucers which are kept full 
of water; this saves labour in watering, but I fancy the 
fruit is not so good. 

Only the best sorts of Strawberries are grown in the 
orchard house, and quality is preferred to quantity. There 
are appliances here for forcing, but those who have no 
other glass structure should grow a few of Black Prince 
in the earliest corner, and Frogmore Late Pine as the 
best late sort. Numerous varieties have been tried here, 
but the best as yet are President, La Constante, Sir Harry, 


| British Queen, Mr. Radclyffe, Dr. Hogg, and Frogmore 


Late Pine. I think highly of Lucas and Souvenir de Kieff ; 
they were both first-rate out of doors last year, and will 
be tried in pots in the orchard house this season. 

It is advisable to take the Strawberry plants out of the 
orchard house as fast as the fruit is picked, as no method 
of cultivation which I am aware of will prevent their being 
infested with red spider. 

Ply the syringe vigorously on the fruit trees when the 
Strawberry pots are removed, as very shortly the earliest 
Peaches will be taking the second swelling, and as the 
fruit shows signs of ripening syringing must be discon- 
tinued, otherwise the flavour will not be good. The first 
Peaches to ripen are Early Beatrice and Harly Rivers; 
the fruit is small, but valuable from coming in three weeks 
before Early York. Early Grosse Mignonne is a very 
fine second early Peach, but the trees are not so robust as 
the Early York. The last to ripen are Lady Palmerston, 
Comet, and Salway, all yellow-fleshed. Desse Tardive, 
an excellent late sort, fruited last year for the first time ; 
this is worthy of extensive cultivation. I proved many 
new sorts last year, but owing to the exceptional season it 
was not possible to report on them. 

The Nectarine season does not extend so long as that 

No. 1168,—Vou. XLV., Op SDRIES, 


‘ 


116 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 


[ February 16, 1871. 


of the Peach. Hunt’s Tawny is the earliest, and the last to 
ripen are Victoria and Prince of Wales. 

The best time to repot the trees, and still make sure of a 
crop in the following year, is as soon as the fruit is gathered. 
I reduce the ball of roots sufficiently to repot again in the 
same size of pot, by keeping the house close and syringing the 
trees, the foliage does not suffer, and in less than a week the 
young roots will be pushing into the fresh material. All the 
trees are either repotted or surface-dressed by the middle of 
October, and turned out of doors. The trees here have been 
treated in this way for many years, and are still healthy and 
fruitinl. 

Lhaye been taken to task both by Mr. Rivers and Mr. Pear- 
son for placing the trees out of doors. Inthe thirteenth yolume 
of this Journal, page 329, Mr. J. R. Pearson says, referring 
to Peaches in pots—‘‘ If left out during winter I should not 
expect them to retain their buds, and if we had a cold winter 
I should expect some to be killed outright.” He is quite mis- 
taken; the trees do not drop any buds, and during the severest 
irost of the present severe winter not one tree was injured. 
Now, let us egain turn to THe Journsan or HortIcuLTUnRE, 
vol. xvi., page 420, Mr. J. R. Pearson gays, referring to his own 
orchard-house Peaches, ‘‘They are nearly a total failure.” 
“ Nearly all the fruit had fallen off,’ &c. Now, what was the 
reason of this? He tells us ‘‘ that it was a total absence of 
sun when the trees were in bloom.’ My four rows of hot-water 
pipes came in useful just at that time, and I had a splendid 
crop. I showed thirteen varieties of Peaches and Nectarines 
at South Kensington; the first prize was awarded to the col- 
lection ; also one dish of Royal George, which had the first 
prize, and was said to be the best-flayoured Peach in the room. 
At the same time I was gathering several dozens every day at 
home for my employer and his friends, end both Mr. Barron, 
of Chiswick, and Mr. Rivers’s foreman, Mr. Perry, told me 
they were the finest orchard-house Peaches and Nectarines 
they had ever seen. It looks egotistical to write like this, but 
when you are called to order by such men as Mr. Rivers and 
Mr. Pearson, it is only right that you should state the vesult of 
the method of cultivation you advise others to practise. 

My reason for removing the trees out of doors is that the 
entire house may be devoted to Chrysanthemums, and I advise 
all who possess an orchard house to fill it with them in the 
autumn. Some of the Chrysanthemums are grown for quality 
of flower; for this purpose two or three plants are potted in 
a 10 or 12-inch pot, they are trained to a single stem, and only 
three flowers are allowed to each. These plants can be placed 
¢losely together to form a centre or background as msy be 
desired; if the house is a lean-to they are arranged to form a 
background, and in 9 span-roofed house they are placed in the 
eentre bed, with, in front of them, specimen plants of the large- 
flowering, Japenese, and Pompon varieties, which will furnish 
a succession of beautiful flowers until the end of the year, and 
now, by the aid of the Japanese and some other late-flowering 
sorts, the bloom is extended far into January.—J. Dovenas. 


ORNAMENTAL VARIETIES OF OUR NATIVE © 


“GRASSES. 

Nor till I had seen the beautifal Dactylis elegantissima at 
Kew did I think that the British Grasses could be made so 
useful for garden decoration. Since then I have turned my 
attention to them, and, to a certain extent, think I have been 


_suecessful, having found eight or nine varieties of Grasses 


with variegated folisge. The first variegated Grass I ever 
found was in Keni—a wee seedling plant, not an inch‘in height, 
of Holeus lanatus, Timothy Grass. The same season I found 
Alopecurus pratensis, Meadow Fox-teil Grass, in a meadow. 
These were both distributed by one of our most enterprising 
nurserymen. 

Thaye sines found Phieum pratense albo-marginatum, which 
was sent out by the same firm. I have now Phleum pratense 
aureo-yariegetam, a fine Grass; a Poa, an Agrostis, Triticum 
repens, Lolium perenne, a new Dactylis glomerata, and several 
others that have not yet flowered. One in particular is a wood 
Grass, with a remarkably bold snow-white variegation. 

I find that most of our British Grasses may be found ina 
variegated state by looking carefully over them where they 
abound, chiefly in sandy soils. My experience proves that 
they are only found in yery smallsportions, bcing mostly sports. 

My Dactylis glomerata is a curious plant, that neyer flowers, 
& stronger varicty than the usual variegated variety. I was 


} 


curious to know the reason of its not flowering, and find, after 
careful examination, the presence of a parasitic fungus, which 
not only prevents its flowering, but, I think, must be the 
cause of its variegation also. During the summer months 
this Grass regains its green condition till, during the winter, 
the spores of the fungus become again active. 

I have raised thousands of seedling plants from variegated 
Grasses, but they all come up green, with the exception of 
Lolium perenne, and not more than one per cent. of this. 
Some of these Grasses make a nice variety in the mixed her- 
baceous border, others are good for edgings, and it has been 
suggested that the dwarfer-growing kinds might be planted for 
making simple figures on lawns, to be mown as usual—for in- 
stance, Poa trivialis argentea. 

In a future note I shall say something about our English 
wild Geraniums, thinking them proper subjects to come under 
the hands of the florist, and I hope that others besides my- 
self will give a helping hand towards introducing these native 
wayside beauties into our gardens, for there is no knowing 
what may be obtained by a thorough investigation of these 
humble members of the yegetable world._W. E., Gardener, 
Cromwell House. 


THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING. 
FesruaRy 14ra. ~ 

Tue Annual General Meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society 
was held on Tuesday afternoon in the Council-room of the Society, 
South Kensington. The chair was taken by His Serene Highness 
Prince Teck, in the absence of the President, the Duke of Buccleuch. 

The Scrutineers appointed for the ballot were Dr. Masters and 
W. Beattie Booth, Esq. On the Meeting proceeding to ballot for 
members of Council, Office-bearers, and Expenses Committeemen for 
the ensuing year, 

His Serene HicHness said:—Ladies and Gentlemen, the work 
which those members of Council and office-bearers undertook last 
year, and the manner in which they performed their task, is so fully 
set forth in the Report which will be read to you, that I will not 
intrude upon your time by referring to the subject. I cannot, however, 
refrain from expressing my gratification at presiding for the first time 
at one of your meetings, especially when I can see that the future of 
the Society will be undoubtedly bright [applause]. Your finances 
are increasing, and there has been, and is, a continuous progress in 
that work which is the special mission of the Society. This year, 
besides, brings you into one of those international contests which lead, 
not to the destruction of the precions life of man, but to the nurture 
and protection of that life which is bestowed upon fruits and flowers 
for the sustenance, the delight, and the enjoyment of all [cheers]. I 
will now call upon the Assistant Secretary to read the Report, and in 
the meantime I will ask you to fill up the vacancies for the year. 3 

Mr. Ricuarps, the Assistant Secretary, was abont to read the 
Report, which will be found appended, when 

Mr. S. H. Gopson remarked, that one of the gentlemen to be 
elected on the Expenses Committee was not now on the Conneil. It 
was irregular, he thought, to have the ballot for the Council made be- 
fore that for the Expenses Committee. i 

Lord Henry Lexnox.—lt is only a matter of form which can be 
explained in a few minutes. 

Mr. Ricusnrps then read the Report. 

Colonel CHattoNeEr said it was not with a view to find fault that he 
rose, because he considered that on the whole the Report was satis- 
factory, but he did so because they really knew nothing about the 
finances of the Royal Horticultural Society. They ought to know a 
little more abontthem. Of course upon any finance question he should 
address himself more particularly to those gentlemen who had charge 
of the finance department; and he ventured to put this question to 
them—Whether the balance of 1869 was £1331; that was a balance 
against them, whilst at the present moment they had nearly the same 
amount of liability? And he shonld also ask this question, ‘““ Does the 
account from January to December include all the ordinary expendi- 
ture of the Society? 

Colonel Scorr, Secretary, said the account showed the absolute ex- 
penditure during the year. At the foot of the account the item of 
£1592 for liabilities on current acconnt would be seen. That showed 
the liabilities at the present moment. B 

Colonel CHarnoner observed that he should have been glad if he 
had had a more satisfactory answer when he asked the same question 
two or three years ago. He should like to see the finances of the 
Society make the same appearance as their banker's book—assets on 
one side, and so much liability on the other. He certainly did not 
wish to have what he would not call ‘‘ cooked” accounts. — 

Colonel Scotr.—But the account, sir, shows everything fully as 
far as any account can show it. 

Colonel Cuartoner.—Am I to understand that the expenses of the 
Royal Horticultural Society, including those of Chiswick garden, 
amounted to £12,189 ? 

Colonel Scorr.—That is quite correct. 


February 16, 1S71. ] 


Colonel CHattoneR.—I have had a seat at the Council for many 
years, and haying taken a great interest in the finances, I like to 
understand exactly in what position we are. 

Colonel Scorr.—As a matter of fact, comparing the state of the 
Society now with its state last year, we are close upon £1000 better 
{hear}. We have paid off a large amount of our liabilities. The 
account shows the amount of liabilities paid off, the amount of our 
present liabilities, and what our expenditure was. 

Colonel CHaLLonER. — Would there be any objection to have the 
balance sheet made out a little plainer ? 

Colonel Scort replied, that they would be very glad to do so if the 
way were pointed out. 

Colonel\CHattoneR said he felt assured the Council would carry out 
the wishes of the Fellows in the best and most economic way. He 
begged to move the adoption of the Report [hear, hear. ] 

Mr. G. F. BLenEts seconded the motion, and congratulated the 
Society upon haying achieved so much success. in the past year. He 
trusted the International Exhibitions when established would prove a 
permanent benefit to the Society, bring to them an increase of mem- 
bers, and an increase of funds. 

Mr. Baresan rose to assure his friends on the platform and in the 
room that in addressing the few remarks to them he was about to 
make, he was influenced by no hostile spirit. He unfortunately dis- 
sented from the congratulation offered by his friend, considering the 
bargain they had made and theterms they had received from Her 
Majesty’s Commissioners of 1851. He was much afraid when people 
came to understand all these things they would scarcely think them a 
subject for congratulation. He felt certain that the Duke of Devonshire 
had acted loyally and honestly by the Society, and that the Council of 
the latter had done their very best to make the most advantageous terms 
they could with the Commissioners. But, let them just go back some 
fifteen or sixteen years when the bargain was made whence these terms 
came, which might have appeared comparatively easy at that time, be- 
cause the day of reckoning was to a certain extent far off. He need 
scarcely inform the Fellows of the Society that the gardens in the 
midst of which they then were owed their origin to a brilliant idea 
springing from the fertile mind of the late Prince Consort, an idea 
which from the day of its conception had been undergoing expansion 
and extension. The late Prince Consort conceived the admirable idea 
of associating together all the arts and all the sciences in a sort of 
happy family at South Kensington, and in order to carry out that 
idea a large amount of money had been expended. A bargain was 
struck, and the expenses of these magnificent gardens were to be 
defrayed jointly by the Royal Horticultural Society and Her Majesty’s 
Commissioners. Although they were to be defrayed jointly they were 
not to be defrayed equally, but partly by the donations of life Fellows, 
and partly by loan. Her Majesty's Commissioners were pro- 

~ fuse in their offers ; they were not-to be exceeded in their generosity 
and the profusion of their gifts by a royal dispenser of good things at 
the table of a monarch [laughter]. Well, when money was borrowed 
interest generally had to be paid, but this was precisely what the 

e Royal Horticultural Society had never been in a position to do. The 
Soeiety had never been able to pay. the interest, and therefore they 
were now at the mercy of Her Majesty's Commissioners, who had it in 
their power to impose upon the Society if they pleased terms which 
would be hard and harsh—just such terms as the Prussian victors 
seemed anxious to impose upon the beautiful and beleaguered city of 
Paris. Now what these terms were he wanted to make the Society 
understand, and he would endeavour to do that by referring to what 
the Society had gained and lost. He should first take what they 
had lost. They had lost three admissions to their own gardens, and 
they would have no power of admission to their own premises during 
thé*sreater portion of the year. It was true the Report spoke of the 
gates of the gardens being thrown open to the large and promiscuous 
company which would crowd the exhibition. When they came to re- 
member that at one end of the gardens there would be a number of 
people engaged in conyivial hilarity, and at the other end countless 
articles of machinery at work, and somewhere about the centre the 
band of the Middlesex Volunteers in full play as well, the less they 
said about the whole thing the better [laughter]. Indeed, as he had 
read somewhere, the state of things would 

“Rend their ears asunder 
With guns and blunderbusses, swords and thunder.” 


—([renewed laughter]. At all events they would not find themselves, 
as they now were, in quiet seclusion, because, even supposing the Com- 
missioners were so good as to refrain from allowing all promiscuous 
visitors to the exhibition to come into the gardens, still the season ticket- 
holders would have that privilege, and hence the privacy which the 
members of the Society would enjoy in their gardens would not be so 
great as that which might be had in any one of the principal squares 
in London. Now, having reviewed what they had lost, let them see 
what they had gained. In the first place they gained a view of that 
noble hall, which he would say—whether they looked at the grandeur 
of its proportions, the dignity or severity of its limes, or its perfect 
adaptation to the object for which it was intended—was a marvel of 
architectural skill, which reflected the utmost credit on his excellent 
friend, who was on the platform at that moment [hear, hear]. Much 
might, no doubt, be said about the appendages that were left, but the 
less said about them now the better; something might come ont of 
them by-and-by. But then they were told no one was to be admitte 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


117 


into the gardens or exhibitions without a capitation. toll of a penny; 
and as some 500,000 or 600,000 persons might probably come to the 
gardens and exhibitions, that number of pence would barely suffice to 
pay the interest due to the Commissioners on the loan. For his own 
part he must say he did not feel very grateful for what the Commis- 
sioners had done for the Society. Excluded during the better six 
months of the year from all enjoyment of the upper arcade, they 
would be partly excluded from the lower one during the winter months, 
and at a time when all the Fellows would be ont of town they would 
have the privilege of visiting what was left of the exhibition. The 
grandest concession to the Society, however, was in the matter of 
tickets. It might be supposed that tickets would be offered to the 
Fellows of the Society for exhibitions which were held almost entirely 
within their own demesne; but no, they were not to have the tickets 
for nothing, but at a guinea less than other people. The public would 
pay three guineas, but the Fellows of the Society should understand 
at once that they could not have the privilege of walking in their own 
arcades without paying two guineas for that privilege. It did not 
always suit a person to pay two guineas. It was not everybody who 
had two guineas to expend, nor was everyone who had two guineas 
willing to expend them, They would find by looking at the Great 
Exhibition that by far the greater number of the well-to-do people 
did not spend anything like two guineas to go to the exhibition, and he 
thought it would be very hard to have to pay two guineas now to see a 
very inferior exhibition. He thought these terms were exceedingly 
hard. Let them suppose for one moment that any person was in the 
habit of supplying them with milk or cream, that he withheld the 
supply, and when they complained he said, “ Oh, you can have three 
gallons of water at the'cost of two” [laughter]. That was pretty 
much the way in which the members of the Royal Horticultural 
Society would be treated. He made these remarks in order that they 
might find an echo in the breasts of some of the members, and pro- 
bably reach the stony hearts of the Commissioners [hear, hear]. 

Mr. CLurron said the interest which the Society had to pay was 
originally fixed at 5 per cent. It was then reduced to 4 per cent., in 
which the bondholders acquiesced. It was quite true if they had 
profits they would be bound to pay rent to the Commissioners, but they 
had not made any profits, and, therefore, they did not pay any rent. 
With respect to the gardens, he might say that the Society found the 
total funds for making them, and all the buildings round the gardens 
and the arcades were erected by the Commissioners of 1851. He had 
had something to do with the arrangement for admission made with 
the Commissidners, and he could tell Mr. Bateman he was under a 
misapprehension if he thought the reduction was a part of the arrange- 
ment. If was simply an offer of the Commissioners of 1851, and he 
thought it was very liberal to give the Society the use of two arcades, 
one on the east and the other on the west side. It had been originally 
intended by the Commissioners to make a conservatory on the top of 
the roof. That was objected to on the part of the Council, and the 
Commissioners gave way, although it was part of the original agree- 
ment that the Society should give up that part of the building. He 
hought he ought to explain these questions in which money was 
concerned. 

Mr. Gopson differed from the last speaker as to accounts. If he 
looked at the accounts he would find that money had been paid, 
but not to a very great amount. By paying a certain sum eveny five 
years they saved the privilege of their gardens; and if the Council did 
not pay their portion it was their fault, and not the fault of the 
Society. He was quite pleased to hear some of the remarks made by 
Col. Challoner, who had never come outin a similar way before. Noy, 
first of all, he (Mr. Godson), was sorry he could not join in the con- 
gratulation respecting the Report. They all knew very well that in 
the minutes of last meeting it was stated they would give up Chiswick. 
Tf that were so, why had it not been done? With respect to walls 
being erected at Chiswick, he had suggested to the Council that they 
should have them entirely to themselves, so as to be able to shut out 
nuisances. One great drawback to Chiswick was the Militia barracks. 
Referring to Mr. Bateman’s speech, Mr. Godson said that with respect 
to that “ hideous building” Mr. Bateman had spoken of, he had heard 
His Royal Highness the Prince Consort point out a very different 
idea. There could, he thought, be no objection to tendering the 
thanks of the Society to His Grace the Duke of Devonshire. No 
doubt Chiswick garden would have been a great resort had it been 
properly managed. He thought, considering that the Council did not 
state their terms with the Duke of Devonshire, it would be more pru- 
dent of them to put down in an appendix what the terms were, and 
then they should all know what they wece going to do. 

Mr. Cuurron remarked that at the Hxhibition of 1861 they were 
enabled to pay a sum of £2000 as rent, 


Lord Henry Lennox said he would answer a very few of the objec- 
tions which had been raised that day. He thought it was a matter of 
great congratulation for the Council to find that eyen in che hands of 
so able a man as his friend Mr. Bateman, the bill of indictment which 
he brought against the Royal Horticultural Society wasso small a one. 
Mr. Bateman, who no doubt would have spoken differently had he 
been among the Council on the platform, said they could have got 
better terms from the Commissioners. Well, they all wanted to get 
the best terms they possibly could, but Mr. Bateman was a member of 
the Council when the arrangement was entered into with the Commis- 
sioners. Therefore in these days, when so much is said of full aad 


118 


JUURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND CUCTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February °6, 1871. 


official responsibility im public matters, he should be glad to see Mr. 
Bateman re-elected that day a member of the Council, to share with 
the rest of the members the responsibility of the agreement entered 
into with the Commissioners of 1851, which he as a good Fellow of 
the Royal Horticultural Society would wish to see improved or at an 
end. Mr. Bateman said, and truly said, he greatly regretted the use of 
the northern arcades. When Mr. Bateman was a member of Council 
it was true the Commissioners did debar the Fellows from the use of 
the northern arcades; but since the amended azreement had been 
entered into the Fellows had returned to them, and the Commissioners 


- had put up a roof or covered way, which had just been formed and 


% 


would be kept up until the exhibition was at an end. His friend Mr. 
Godson, with whom he had the privilege of crossing swords on a former 
occasion, gave great and full credit to Mr. Bateman for his speech, 
which was quite different from what he was in the habit of hearing 
from him. He (Lord H. Lennox) quite agreed with Mr. Godson as 
to the brilliancy of Mr. Bateman’s speech, but the chief brilliancy in 
it was that opinion given, when the truth was out, that he was the last 
man who would find fault with the Council—when he fully admitted 
the difficulties they had to contend with, and cheerfully acknowledged 
how well they had surmounted them [hear, hear]. That was the fact 
of Mr. Bateman’s speech which the Council accepted cheerfully, and 
for which they tendered to him their thanks; and he (Lord H. Lennox) 
hoped that when Mr. Bateman rejoined the Council he would be able 
to say to the Fellows, ‘“‘ We have met here to-day. Last day I was in 
the position of an elector, now I am in that of a minister, and I will 
give to you an account of my stewardship” [hear and laughter]. 
Now, his friend Mr. Bateman said persons had told him that the 
visitors to the gardens of the exhibition would amount to some five 
hundred thousand. 
Mr. Batemsn.—From five to seven hundred thousand. 


Lord H. Lexnox.—Well, from five hundred thousand to seven 
hundred thousand. It was highly probable that of those who visited 
the exhibition many circumstances must tend to diminish or inerease 
the number; and there was nothing about which doctors differed so 
much aso what numbers would probably come, but he and his friends 
were in a position to say—from the information and opinion of those 
to whom the fullest credit may be attached in a matter of this kind— 
that the number of persons who would visit the exhibition—now that 
they could breathe again at the end of the fearful struggle abroad— 
would run from two to eight millions [hear, hear]. In that case, if 
the numbers only reached the lower figure, the arrangement made 
with Her Majesty's Commissioners would very soon repay the Fellows 
of the Society. His friend Colonel Challoner wished to see the balance 
sheet plainer. Ali he could say on the part of the finance oilicers 
was that they should be only too grateful if Colonel Challoner put 
himself in communication with them, and suggested any means by 
which they could simplify the accounts. No doubt the experience of 
Colonel Challoner would be very useful tothem. Mr. Godson also 
said, that grateful as he was to the Duke of Devonshire, he wished 
the Council had told the Fellows how far the Society had been 
benefited by the garden at Chiswick. But it should be borne in mind 


that the Council say in the Report: ‘‘ The Annual General Meeting | 
haying left the question to the decision of the Council, they proceeded | 


to make inquiries, but whilst engaged upon them his Grace the Duke 
of Deyonshire, in a most liberal spirit, expressed his readiness, if the 


Society chose to remain at Chiswick, to accede to an arrangement for : 


the renunciation of the lease of a portion of the garden; and accord- 
ingly a new agreement was entered into with His Grace, by which the 
garden is reduced from thirty-two acres to less than twelve, and the 
rent has sustained 2 corresponding reduction.” That was the answer 
to Mr. Godson; the Duke of Devonshire had allowed them to reduce 
their garden from thirty-two acres to Jess than twelve, and the rent 
had sustained a corresponding reduction. And it was after that 
sentence that the following, which probably drew out Mr. Godson’s 
observation, came :—‘‘ The Council are of opinion that the thanks of 
the Society are due to the Duke for the liberality with which he has 
treated them, both in respect of rent and the terms on which the re- 
newed lease is granted. These terms leave to the Society the option 
of relinquishing Chiswick whenever they shall judge it conducive to 
the success of its operations to seek another garden. They therefore 
recommend to the meeting to record a yote of thanks to His Grace.” 


‘He (Lord H. Lennox) was willing to answer any further question that 


might be put to him before he went away. The presence in the chair 
of his illustrions friend, Prince Teck, was most encouraging for the 
Society [applause]. No one knew bettgr than Mr. Bateman the 
difficulties the Society had had to encounter for a long time. He 
thought the Report which had been submitted to the meeting was a 
proof that the Society wassteadily—slowly and surely—azsuming the 
place which was intended for it by the illustrious Prince Consort 
cheers ]. 
: Mr. Gopson wished to know, with respect to the agreement entered 
into as to Chiswick garden, what was the term of years given, because 
the Society had spent £20,000 or £30,000 on the place. How much 
of that, he should lik e to know, was preserved to the Society ? 
Lord H. Lexnox.—Twenty-one years, and to be renewed at will. 
Mr. Gopsoy.—At the option of the Council and Fellows? 
Lord H. Lexnox.—Yes. 
Mr. Bateman said with regard to a remark of his noble friend 
(Lord H. Lennox), that he should haye probably spoken differently 


had he been on the platform among the members of the Council, he 
would only say his ngble ffiend was aware, as oilers were, that when- 
ever any matter was brought before the Council, he (Mr. Bateman) 
never departed from what he considered the right course [hear]. 

Lord H. Leyxox said he had spoken from his parliamentary ex- 
perience, which had shown him how much easier it was to speak when 
in opposition than when sitting at the Treasury side of the House 
(laughter ]. 

he: resolution for the adoption of the Report was then put and 
carried. 

The results of the ballot were then declared; James Bateman, Esq.. 
F.R.S., John Kelk, Esq., and E. J. Lowe, Esq., F.R.S., having been 
elected members of the Council in the room of the vacating members 
—Andrew Murray, Esq., F.L.S., Sigismund Ricker, Esq., F.L.S., and 
Dr. Thomson, F.R.S. The officers were also appointed as follows— 
President, His Grace the Duke of Buccleuch, K.G.; Treasurer, John 
Clutton, Esq.; Secretary, Lieut.-Col. Scott, R.E.; Expenses Com- 
mitteemen, John Clutton, Esq., W. Wilson Saunders, Esq., F.B.S., 
and Sigismund Ricker, Esq., F.L.S.; Auditors, James Nicholson, 
Esq., John Gibson, Eeq., and Robert Hudson, Esq., F.R.S. 

The Report of the Auditors having been read, 

Lord H. Leynox said it had been forgotten to return thanks to 
Col. Scott, who was the excellent Secretary of the Society, and worked 
without any remuneration. He therefore begged to move a rote of 
thanks to Col. Scott [hear, hear]. 

Mr. Barewan seconded the motion, which was carried. 

Mr. Gopson ventured to tender His Serene Highness the heartfelt 
thanks of the meeting for coming there and presiding on that occa- 
sion. He assured His Serene Highness that the Society need not 
look to the future with any apprehension, but, on the contrary, to 
great success, if he gave as patient attention and hearing at the 
Council as he had that day in presiding over the meeting [applause]. 
He begged to propose that the thanks of the meeting be given to His 
Serene Highness. 

Colonel CHALLONER in seconding the motion, said it was a great 
advantage to have a member of the Royal Family amongst them, and 
they ought all to be proud at any member of that family taking the 
chair at their meeting [hear hear]. 

The motion having been carried by acclamation, 

His S—rENE Hicusyess said—In the unavoidable absence of your 
President, I was asked tc perform the duties of Chairman, which any 
one, indeed, could perform better than myself. I beg to express my 
satisfaction at being associated with this Society, forI take a real 
interest in horticulture, and to thank you for your kindness [applause]. 

The proceedings were then brought to a close. 


REpPoRT oF THE CouUNCIL TO THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING. 

1. The Council haye the satisfaction of announcing to the Fellows 
that a considerable improvement has been effected in the financial 
position of the Society since the last Annual General Meeting. They 
can also speak with satisfaction of the horticultural work of the past 
year and of the promise of the present one. They haye again to report 


an increase in the number of Fellows; the number now on the books - 


is 3376, being an increase of twenty-five since the last annual Report. 
The number of resignations has been unusually small during the past 
year, which is another hopeful sign of the increasing popularity of the 
Society. 

2. The actual amount of subscriptions received is about the same as 
in 1868 and1869. In the former year it was £7113 ; in 1869, £7193; 
and in 1870, £7177. That the receipts have not kept pace with the 
jricrease of Fellows is due to the fact that the Fellows have not so 
largely availed themselves of their privilege of obtaining transferable 
tickets as in former years. It is to be hoped, therefore, that the fall 
value of the increased number of Fellows has not yet been felt, and 
that a return of the commercial prosperity of the country will bring 
with it a corresponding desire to the Fellows to obtain for their friends 
the advantages which the transferable ticket system confers. } 

3. The receipts from exhibitions during the past year were higher 
than in 1868 or 1869, and the Council have the pleasure of reporting 
that, notwithstanding the greatly increased number of shows, the 
exhibitions of the Society may again be said to be self-supporting. 
After a trial of two years the Council see no room for improvement in 
their established arrangements, excepting in matters of detail. These 
arrangements appear to be satisfactory both to the Fellows and to the 
exhibitors, and since they are also financially successfal, and are adapted 
to the exhibition of the progress of horticulture throughout all the 
seasons of the year, it may be safely assumed that they are more 
conducive to the advancement of the objects of the Society than those 
which they haye supplanted. The exhibitions of the last year, re- 
garded as a whole, haye never been surpassed in usefulness and 
brilliancy. 

4, The country show at Oxford was the least successful, from a 
financial point of view, of those hitherto yet held. The Council are, 
however, not discouraged by the solitary instance of a slight loss on these 
yaluable endeavonrs to increase the Society's usefulness and popularity. 
This year's Show is to be at Nottingham, and if any opinion can be 
formed from the interest there felt in the visit of the Horticultural 
Society, the Nottingham Show will mark a new step in the career of 
usefulness on which the Society entered when it undertook the sys- 


February 16, 1871. ] 


tem of holding annual country shows. This, too, is the first instance 
in which the Society, accepting the invitation of a locality, has ven- 
tured to leave the support which the presence of fhe Royal Agricul- 
tural Society was supposed to give, and to trust to its own efforts and 
attractions for securing a sufficient number of visitors to render the 
exhibition self-supporting. The Council are happy to report that the 
zeal of the horticulturists of Nottingham, and that strong love of 
flower-culture which has rendered this city so celebrated, has already 
raised the special prize fund to no less a sum than £500. 

5. The bequest of £2000 left to the Society by the late Mr. Alfred 
Daris has been inyested in Consols. One of the conditions of the 
gift was that the interest of the money only should be applied to the 
uses of the Society. In accordance with this condition the Council 
haye determined to apply the first proceeds from the interest of the 
bequest to the purchase of a challenge cup, to be called the Davis 
Challenge Cup, to be won for a certain number of years as a distinc- 
tion for successful culture. The terms of competition will be published 
shortly. 

6. The Council for some years past have felt serious concern at the 
gradually increasing burden which has been thrown upon the funds of 
the Society for rates and taxes. The charge is made upon an arbi- 
trary.assessment by the parish, and not in reference to the actual 
retarnsas a garden. An intention of still further increasing the rates 
last year was announced to the Society, but was resisted, and the 
amount remains unaltered. 

7. The Scientific, Fruit and Floral Committees continue to do good 
service to horticulture, and that of the most valuable kind. The 
Council much regret that the accounts published of their proceedings 
ata very serious cost to the Society seem to ke little appreciated by 
the great body of the Fellows. This is doubtless in some measure due 
to the fact that their contents are necessarily anticipated by the horti- 
cultural journals; but whatever the cause, the Council do not think 
that they would be justified in entering upon additional expenditure, in 
order to secure a more rapid publication of information, which can 
readily be obtained at a trifling cost by those who watch the proceed- 

vings of the Committees with interest. The publications of the Society 
prove to be chiefly valuable for communication and exchange with 
‘Societies and individuals abroad. The Council fear that, haying 
regard to the interests of the large majority of the Fellows and the 
limited means of the Society, they have not yet found the best mode 
of employing the funds which can be devoted to the publication of its 
proceedings. This subject will occupy their earnest attention during 
the present year. 

8. The collection of economic entomology continues to make pro- 
gress, and the thanks of the Society are due to the Fellows and their 
friends, who from time to time send contributions. One of the latter 
(who desires to be anonymous), has offered a sum of money in prizes 
for the best collection of entomological objects. The nature and 
arrangement of the objects to be submitted in competition are to be 
defined by the Council, and they now have this matter under their con- 
sideration. Mr. Andrew Murray has also undertaken to give six 
lectures during the coming season on economic and forest entomology. 
Due notice will be given both of the dates of these lectures and of the 
terms on which the prizes are offered. 

9. The most important question dealt with in the Report of the 
Council to the last Annual General Meeting, was that of the Chiswick 
“Garden. In this case also the increase of rates and taxes pressed 
yery heavily, and these coupled with a large rental and the working 
expenses of keeping up a garden far more extensive than corresponded 
with the present requirements of the Society, had, indeed, become so 
heayy as seriously to cripple its resources. The Council, therefore, 
distasteful as they knew such a step would be to many of the Fellows 
whose wishes and opinions were entitled to great weight, concluded, 
-after much consideration, that the wisest plan would be to endeayour 
to obtain a small working garden in a purer atmosphere than that of 
Chiswick, at some distance from London. The Annual General Meet- 
ing having left the question to the decision of the Council, they pro- 
ceeded to make inquiries, but whilst engaged upon them His Grace 
the Duke of Devonshire, in a most liberal spirit, expressed his readi- 
ness, if the Society chose to remain at Chiswick, to accede to an 
arrangement for the renunciation of the lease of a portion of the 
-garden; and accordingly a new agreement was entered into with His 
Grace, by which the garden is reduced from thirty-two acres to less 
than twelve, and the rent has sustained a corresponding reduction. 
The Council are of opinion that the thanks of the Society are due to 
the Duke for the liberality with which he has treated them, both in 
respect of rent and the terms on which the renewed lease is granted. 
These terms leaye to the Society the option of relinquishing Chiswick 
whenever they shall judge it conducive to the success of its operations 
to seek another garden. They, therefore, recommend to the meeting 
to record a vote of thanks to His Grace. 


10. An immediate consequence of the reduction of the space under 
cultivation at Chiswick has been a reconsideration of the principle on 
which the collections of frnit trees should be maintained. The original 
idea was to keep up a collection of all the kinds of fruit trees admit- 
ting of cultivation in the English climate, and it is believed that at 
one time it was nearly, if not quite, a perfect one. Of late years, 
however, the increase of varieties has been so rapid, especially on the 
“Continent, that it has for some time past ceased to haye any preten- 
“sions to completeness, and a very large proportion consisted of inferior 


& 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


119 


kinds rarely or never cultivated. ‘Che advisability of keeping worth- 
less kinds has been often questioned, and the moment the collection 
ceased to haye pretensions to completeness, the chief argument in 
favour of preserving condemned kinds vanished. The Council believe 
that their action in having weeded out, under the advice of the Hor- 
ticnltural Directors, all those varieties which were unworthy of culti- 
vation, will meet with the general approval of cultivators of the present 
day. The preservation of the best kinds has been effected, partly by 
transplanting and partly by grafting, with the success which usually 
attends the skill of the Superintendent, Mr. Barron. Similar success 
has attended the removal of the hardy perennials to the part of the 
garden which has been retained. Some new borders flanking the great 
conservatory are devoted to them, and new varieties are solicited from 
the Fellows. The extensive collection of bedding Pelargoniums has 
also been preserved. 

11. In accordance with arrangements which haye been contemplated 
since Mr. Eyles has, with a degree of success highly satisfactory to 
him, entered upon the profession of a practising landscape gardener, 
that officer will this year cease to be the Superintendent of the Ken- 
sington Garden, but he will still remain with the Society as the Super- 
intendent of Exhibitions, a duty which is quite compatible with the 
exercise of the profession he has engaged in. He will also remain as 
a resident on the grounds of the Society, and exercise a general super- 
vision over them in the absence of Mr. Barron, who will continue to 
reside at Chiswick, and undertake the superintendence of both gardens. 

12. The Council cannot omit from their Report the expression of 
their expectation that the Annual International Exhibition, to be 
opened on Ist May next, under the direction of Her Majesty’ Exhibition 
Commissioners, will tend greatly to the progress of the Society’s 
operations. The unfortunate circumstances of the French people at 
the present moment must necessarily interfere materially with the 
horticultural competition, which might otherwise have been expected 
from that nation, but both Holland and Belgium intend to do their 
best to contest the prize for successful culture with the British nation, 
notwithstanding the disadvantages under which they must labour from 
the difficulties of transit to this country. 

13. It is incumbent, also, on the Council again to draw attention to 
the extent to which the Society’s future welfare is bound up with the 
success of the objects which Her Majesty’s Commissioners are en-_ 
deavouring in so liberal a spirit to carry out, and to urge them to give 
to the Annual International Exhibitions their best support. A Society 
consisting of upwards of 3000 members, of whom the large majority 
hold a high position in the country, may do much to add to that large 
measure of success which may reasonably be expected from so impot- 
tant an attempt to add to the prosperity of the arts and industries of 
the nation. The Council have felt it right, believing that they were 
carrying out the wishes of the body they represent, to meet the Com- 
missioners in every point in which it appeared that the proposed 
arrangements would conduce to the success of their great undertaking 
—an undertaking, of which the Society will share the benefits, being 
pecuniarily interested in the number of visitors to the Exhibition. 

14. It is perhaps unnecessary to remind the Society thatits Fellows, | 
by the arrangements entered into with the Commissioners, have the 
privilege of obtaining season tickets for the Annual International 
Exhibitions at one guinea less for each ticket than the price charged 
to the public. These tickets, will admit both to the Fine Art and 
Industrial Galleries on each side of the gardens, and to the Daily 
Musical Performances in the Hall during the continuance of the 
Exhibition. The following modification in the terms of arrangement 
with the Commissioners respecting the use of the arcades being more 
favourable to the Society than the original -propositions, the Council 
had no hesitation in concurring in it. 

Ofice of H.M. Commissioners for the Exhibition of 1851, 
5, Upper Kensington Gore, London, W. 

Srr,—Referring to the terms of arrangement entered into between Her 
Majesty’s Commissioners for the Exhibition of 1851 and the Royal Horti- 
cultural Society, for the use of the Society’s Gardens by the visitors to 
the forthcoming Annual International Exhibitions, Iam directed by Her 
Majesty’s Commissioners to inform you, that during the progress of their 
preparations for those Exhibitions, the following modifications of the 
terms in question have suggested themselves to the Commissioners, who, 
thinking that if adopted they would proye beneficial alike to the Com- 
missioners.and to the Society, have directed me to communicate them to 
you for the consideration of your Council. 

In Article 1 it was agreed that the Society should give to the Com- 
missioners the use of the Northern Arcades, the Commissioners providing 
in lien thereof, for the use of the Society, a covered communication on 
the roofs of those structures, between the Orchard House entrances and 
the Conservatory. ; 

Her Majesty’s Commissioners now propose that the Society should 
retain the North Arcades, thus preserving their present and more con- 
venient means of access to the Conservatory, and should give to the 
Commissioners instead the exclusive use of the Eastern and Western 
Arcades, which would be enclosed, at the expense of the Commissioners, 
by a light trellis-work fence. The covered communication over the 
North Arcades, which has been erected by the Commissioners in com- 


_pliance with Article 1, would then be used by them as a means of access 


to the Royal Albert Hall, and to the wings of the Exhibition Galleries, 
the communication being completed by means of a passage along the 
back part of the Gallery of the Conservatory. 

As the Commissioners have acquired from Her Majesty’s Government 
the temporary use of the South Arcades, they also propose, as a part of 
this new arrangement, to construct a passage beneath the Council-room 
of the Society, and thus to complete the circuit of the Gardens. 

With reference to Article 8 of the terms of arrangement, securing to 


120 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER, 


[ February 16, 1871. 


the Fellows of the Society the exclusive use of such portions of the 
annexes as are not required by Her Majesty’s Commissioners,-I am 
directed to inform you that the development of the Exhibition will neces- 


sitate the occupation of the whole, or nearly the whole, of the annexes, | 


and that, consequently, the Commissioners would be unable to leave to 
the Fellows, to any substantial extent, the privilege contemplated by the 
article. On the other hand, Her Majesty’s Commissioners propose (but, 
without binding themselves to a course which might prove very detri- 
mental to the success of the Exhibitions) to make the experiment of 
curtailing that free use of the Gardens by visitors to the Exhibition, 
which was provided for in the original arrangement, by making an extra 
charge for admission thereto, The effect of this measure would obviously 
be to secure to the Fellows of the Society a much greater degree of the 
quiet which they have hitherto enjoyed than they would retain if the 
Gardens were to be thrown open to every visitor to the Exhibition. 
Ihave the honour to be, Sir, 
Your obedient servant, 

HENRY Y. D. SCOTT, Lieut.-Colonel, R.E. 

The Assistant Secretary of the Secretary. 
Royal Horticultural Society. 

15. The Council desire, in conclusion, to record their satisfaction at 
the successful completion of the Royal Albert Hall, in which a large 
number of the Fellows of the Society are shareholders. They are 
informed that Her Majesty has announced her intention of opening it 
on the 29th March next. 


Exrracrs FROM THE REPORTS oF THE HorricutsuRaL Directors. 


Scrpntrric Com 1tTEE.— Numerous matters of greater or less 
interest have come before the Scientific Committee during the past 
year, which are recorded in the Society’s journal. Amongst these the 
most prominent are Mr. Glaisher’s observations on the meteorological 
records which have been carried on for so many years at Chiswick. 
It is a great satisfaction to the Society that the doubts as to their 
accuracy since 1860 have been quite cleared up, and a comparison of 
them with cotemporaneous observations at Greenwich has enabled him 
to attain many useful results which will be published in an appendix 
to the journal. 

The experiments on the effect of different manures on the com- 
parative development of a certain number of plants have been carried 
on very carefully at Chiswick, and the results which, notwithstanding 
the unfavourable season, have been of much interest, and are already 
published. 

Mr. Anderson-Henry has sent some valuable observations on hybridi- 
sation, and Mr. Andrew Murray has lately read an interesting paper 
on that subject, as illustrated by the phenomenon of mimetic insects. 

Amongst minor matters the occurrence of a manna-like substance on 
Peach leaves and twigs at Chiswick, but which really appeared to be 
more allied to stearine, deserves especial notice, as also Mr. Laxton’s 
observations, accompanied by specimens, on the effect of crossing in 
Peas on the colour of the seed. 

PomoLocican DEpaRTMENT.—In consequence of the contemplated 
changes that were decided upon at the beginning of last year, in the 
garden at Chiswick, it was considered impolitic to cultivate that portion 
of it which has hitherto been occupied as the orchard and kitchen 
garden, and consequently no experiments were last year undertaken 
in the open ground. But the great success that has attended the 
cultivation of the more tender kinds of fruits in the new orchard house 
has resulted in securing very copious notes on Peaches, Nectarines, 
and Apricots, which will serve in the preparation of future reports on 
these subjects. or some seasons past considerable attention has been 
given to the investigation of the numerous varieties of Figs, hitherto 
in a sad state of confusion as to nomenclature, and a correct knowledge 
of their merits and characteristics; and again this season great addi- 
tions have been made to the observations already obtained. 

The inside border of the great vinery (formerly the conservatory) 
has been entirely removed, as well as the Vines which it contained, 
and the house is now furnished entirely by Vines growing in the out- 
pide border, which has been considerably enlarged. 

Notwithstanding the abandonment of the old orchard, the whole of 
the valuablo collection of fruit trees has been preserved, only dupli- 
cates, and some varieties which had been proved essentially worthless, 
haying been destroyed; yet some of these, which had acquired a 
symmetrical habit of growth, were successfully re-grafted with superior 
yarieties, and will preserve their place in the collection. An entire re- 
arrangement of the whole collection, both of Apples and Pears, has 
been made, and will occupy compartments on the new ground which 
has been broken up and laid out for the special purpose. 

The crops of fruit haye, during the past season, been generally 
abundant, with the exception of those on the Pyramid Cherries and 
Plums, which were almost a total failure. 

By the new arrangements that are being made in the garden there 
will be ample space at command for carrying out all experimental 
operations which the Society can desire; and the more compact state 
of the garden will admit of a concentration of labour which could not 
formerly be obtained, and thereby conduce to greater ease and efficiency 
in the conducting of experiments and the preparation of reports. 

‘As has been the case in former years, so in the past, the lellows of 
the Society have largely availed themselves of their privilege of obtain- 

ing scions, cuttings, plants, and seeds from the garden; and nursery- 
men especially, who are Fellows, appear to estimate at the proper value 
the privilege of renewing and correcting their collections of fruit trees 
from the trees at Chiswick. During the past year 62,000 packets of 
seeds haye been distributed; 2250 sorts of cuttings of fruit trees, 
including many collections of Figs, Vines, and Gooseberrics. 


Frorat Drpartwent.—The floral department at Chiswick has 
rendered the Society good service during the past year. First, as 
regards supply. The,number of plants distributed to the Fellows, by 
ballot or otherwise, has been 13,700, and the number of packets of 
flower seeds, 60,000; while the contribution to the garden at South 
Kensington, though less than usual as regards numbers, owing to the 
reduction of the bedding-out there, has extended to 28,144 plants. 

Though it was found impracticable, under the circumstances in 
which the Superintendent was placed, to carry out the usual trials of 
new varieties of Bedding Pelargoniums, &c., yet a successful effort has 
been made to retain the extensive collection of sorts which had been 
got together, with the view to resume these useful critical comparisons. 
as soon as practicable. 

The collection of Hardy Perennials, which it is hoped may be further 
extended from year to year, has also been preserved, and remoyed from 
that part of the garden which has to be given up. Some new borders 
flanking the great conservatory have been devoted to them, and further 
contributions to the collection are solicited from any of the Fellows, 
or others, who take interest in herbaceous plants—a class which has 
latterly been far too much neglected. 

The cultivation of stove plants—one of the least useful and most 
expensive branches of the floral department—was relinquished when 
the necessity for curtailment became evident, the houses being deyoted 
to the growth of less tender plants for the conservatory at South 
Kensington. 

Amongst the subjects provided for ballot during tb71, will be found 
some novel and extremely interesting fringed-flowered Petunias, both 
double and single, which have been raised at Chiswick. They are yery 
handsome plants, and will form a pleasing variety amongst Petunias. 
Other novelties raised at Chiswick, and which will be distributed in 
the course of the season, are a fine new Dieffenbachia; Tacsonia 
speciosa, a handsome Passion-Flower; some of the golden-leaved 
Caladiums referred to last year; and variegated zonal Pelargonium 
Amy Richards, which is considered to be one of the best bedding 
varieties yet obtained. ~ 

Abundant facilities will be afforded in the new garden for carrying 
on the useful work of the floral department, it being intended to form 
beds for the experimental trials of flowers on a strip of ground between 
the Council-room and the conservatory—a situation which is in every 
way well adapted for the purpose. 


° 
STATEMENT oF AccotNnts from 1st of January to 81st of December, 1870 


RECEIPTS. 

£ sd. £3 d 
To Life Compositions.... 546 0 0 
3, Admission Fees ........ 865 8 0 
3; *Annual Subscriptions ... TeULTT 0/10 
3, tGarden Produce and Charges...... 578 5 11 
», Daily Admissions and Promenades.. 468 6 9 
5, Rent of space in Arcades........... . 424 0 0 
;, Exhibition and Fétes .. . 1277 7 0 
», Miscellaneous............ 4 3919 8 
» Interest on Davis Bequest ........+. 415 7 

10,876 211 

9 Balance... cceccicceccssrccssvncccene 1,318 9 & 


£12,189 12 5 


* Assets. Subscriptions unpaid .... £735 0 0 


+Garden Produce, due but unpaid. 175 0 0 
— 910 0 0 
EXPENDITURE. 
& 3. de £ 8. de 
By Balance from 1869....+eeesesveeeeve 1331 18 11 


By Chiswick Garden Expenses—viz. :— 


Rent, Rates, and Taxes . 5 -- 224 vi 
Labour ......2++-+- 902 1 
Implements, Manure 
Repairs.......sesereees 
Trees, Plants, and Shru' 
Miscellaneous ....-...- don 
8 7 
Alterations in Garden .....ssesereeees 8114 $ 
By Expenses of Management—viz. :— 

H Salaries Siviais oie) clelsinle.s)seiejle Raoapeenocoe eye we yak! 
dournal.......-.--++ ainiatalstnlolelefe/eleteinielele(e)= 1212 6 
Horticultural Directors, Fruit,and Floral 

Committees, KC. ....eeeeeeeeee Reidee ee 402s 6) 
Foreign Importations.......... SHobanoo.. Web l) 
Examination of Gardeners .......- eevee GOmela As 
POStAGES 2. .ceeceerrecccscereenseencees 77 0 0 
Distribution of S 

AN PAlacteseisstels sescieie sis s)sniaisiois 59 10 10 
Reading Room 20 6 6 
Gases... 85 19 6 
WAGES ..cceeeeececee cree ceeye oe ‘ik a 

i IS. cnecneveeececcece eeeeee 5 
MESCN HCE Eager 

By Expenses of Exhibitions—viz. :— 

4 ree and Posting 8013 8 
meee and Medals ......... 

BMGS) sees eee Pinger icc see, 

PONICO) osc ccc c cece sect eessaseneese aco 6 010 
Labour, Judges’ Fees, Luncheons, and 
Sundries pooner pee Fara one aa a = 
Obsy nt Exhibition .... 
Expenses of Permane ust 79 


February 16, 1871. ] 


ad. 


& 
& 


By Kensington Garden Expenses—vi. 
MAR DODT = |-\eicjereleicretsteieteteiciere siete eiele'e ae 
Rates, Taxes, and Insurance 
Engineer..........+ sjalelelelejelelatele 
WETO®, Sooo achouo . . 
Repairs............ hoodoodoudscdoonoK6KS 
Implements, Manure, Coals, and Coke . 
Gravel ..... Slelelelele/e le sieieletsleleieieipio(elajarelala(ele 
Trees, Plants, Seeds, &c. .. 
Superintendent’s Salary ... 
Miscellaneous 


2359 10 

68 2 
1943 13 
2283 15 


Conversazione........-e..eees 
By Interest on Debentures..... 
», Liabilities of 1869 paid off 
4, Liabilities on Current Account, £1592 1s. 


pros 


7d. 


$12,189 12 5 
3rd of February, 1871. ———— 
Audited and found correct, 
JAMES NICHOLSON, 
RoBERT HupDson, 
JoHN GIBSON, 


} Auditors. 


FRUIT AND FLORAL MEETING, &e. 
Frpsrvary 151TH. 


‘Tuts Meeting was one of the most successful the Society has ever 
held—successful in the diversity, the interest, and the beauty of the 
objects which it was the means of bringing together at a season when 
plant-life is only beginning to awaken from its winter's rest; successful 
in a still higher degree in the almost unprecedented attendance of 
visitors, so great that standing room in the afternoon was as much as 
they could obtain, and of that there was none to spare. The com- 
bined meetings and shows have evidently been a step in the right 
direction, and have aroused and kept alive an amount of horticultural 
interest, greater than the most sanguine ever expected. 


Fruit Commirrrr.—G. F. Wilson, Esq., F'.R.S., in the chair: 
The Sub-Committee appointed at last meeting to report on the merits 
of the Galloway Pippin, reported that it was a cooking Apple of first- 
rate excellence, and a first-class certificate was accordingly awarded to 
it. Thomas Laxton, Esq., of Stamford, ssnt a seedling Apple, A, 
vaised from Stamford Pippin fertilised by Golden Noble. It is 
medium-sized, roundish, and sometimes a little conical; the skin 
yellow; eye open, and stalk short; the flesh yellowish, firm, crisp, and 
juicy, with a nice perfume. It was commended. Another seedling, 
marked B, was smaller, flat, and also yellow, with a long stalk, firm, 
crisp flesh, and of good flayour. Mr. Laxton also sent six dishes of 
Apples in excellent preservation, to show the successful mode in 
which fruit may be kept in an underground wine-cellar, with no com- 
munication with the external air, and only a slight opening into 
another cellar, when the fruit will keep for a considerable time. The 
whole of the fruit sent had been kept packed singly, eye downwards, 
on deal shelves, covered with newspaper to prevent the wood flayour- 
ing the fruit. 

Mr. E. J. Lowe, of Nottingham, sent a seedling Apple, raised from 
Bess Pool. It had a very strong resemblance to its parent im every 
zespect, and the flesh was firm. 1t was not, however, considered 
superior to the older variety. Mr. Rivers, of Sawbridgeworth, sent 
fruit of Passe Crasanne Pear, grown by Mr. Tyler on a tree grafted 
on the Quince stock. The flavour was good, but not remarkable. Mr. 
Parsons, of Fairlawn, Acton Green, sent good specimens of Beurré 
Rance Pear, which were void of flavour. Mr. Tillery, of the Gar- 
dens, Welbeck Abbey, sent three dishes of Apples from a wire trellis, 
to show the fine colour they had attained during the past season. 
‘Cox’s Orange was by far the best in flavour, being superior both to 
Ribston Pippin and Melon Apple, the latter being long past its season. 
Mr. Domenico Piccirillo, of Wigmore Street, sent dishes of Sweet 
Limes and Lemons, grown at Portici, to which a special certificate 
was awarded. Mr. Chilman, Somerley Gardens, Ringwood, sent fruit 
of Black Jamaica and Montserrat to ascertain if they are identical. 
A Sub-Committee was appointed to investigate the whole question of 
the nomenclatare of Pine Apples, and to report at next meeting. 

Mr. Gilbert, of Burghley Gardens, sent a collection of nine varieties 
of Potatoes, consisting of Coldstream Early, Jersey Blue, Prince of 
Regent, Pink-eyed Regent, King of Potatoes, Selected Lapstone, 
Myatt’s Ashleaf, and Rivers’ Ashleaf and Silver-skin. They were very 
fine samples, and received a special certificate. 

Prizes were offered for the best three dishes of Dessert Apples and 
the best three dishes of Dessert Pears. Many fine dishes of both 
fruits were exhibited. The first prize for Apples was awarded to Mr. 
Garland, gardener to Sir T. Dyke Ackland, Bart., Killerton, for Cox’s 
Orange Pippin, Cornish Gilliflower, and Ribston Pippin ;, the second 
prize went to Mr. A. Parsons, gardener to W. J. Blake, Hsq., Danes- 
bury. For Pears the first prize was also taken by Mr. Garland with 
Winter Nelis, Bergamotte Esperen, and Haster Beurré; Mr. Miles, 
gardener to Lord Carrington, Wycombe Abbey, being second with 
Beurré de Rance, Monarch, and Easter Beurré. The finest dish of 
the last-named variety was, however, shown by Mr. Sage, gardener to 
Karl Brownlow. 


Frorat Comurrrer.—Mr. J. Fraser in the chair. Messrs. Rollisson 
and Sons, Tooting, sent a beautiful group, chiefly consisting of Orchids. 
Among these were a remarkably fine specimen of Cypripedium yillo- 


JOURNAL ©F HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


121 


sum with a score of fully-expanded flowers and buds, and a magnifi- 
cent plant of the white and gold Cologyne cristata a yard across. In 
the same collection were Vanda tricolor insignis, very fine in colour ; 
Odontoglossum pulchellum majus; Cypripedium insigne Maulei, a 
very fine variety ; Odontoglossums ; Dracena Guilfoylei, and Lomaria 
gibba crispa. Davallia clavata, a very elegant new Fern also came 
from the same exhibitors. 

Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord Londesborough, sent a superb group 
of Orchids, including a magnificent specimen of Celogyne cristata, 
blooming even more freely than Messrs. Rollisson’s plant, and a re- 
markably fine specimen of Dendrochilum glumaceum ; Odontoglossum 
Alexandre, O. cariniferum, several fine varieties of Cattleya Trians, 
Lycaste Schilleriana, Pilumna fragrans, deliciously scented, and 
Trichopilia suavis were also represented by finely-bloomed plants. 
There was alsoa cut spike of Phalwnopsis intermedia Porteana, the 
colours of which are very beautiful, especially those of the lip, which 
is magenta, shaded with orange at the base. 

From the Society’s garden came a fine collection of Orchids, con- 
sisting of Liycaste Skinneri, Oncidium Cavendishii, a lovely variety of 
Cattleya quadricolor, &e. 

Mr. Williams likewise sent a group of Orchids containing a very 
fine specimen of Cypripedium villosum, Lelia superbiens, lovely ; 
Vandas, Cattleyas, Odontoglossums, Cwlogyne media, Pleione humilis, 
&c. Mr. Williams also gxhibited a collection of Palms, and a most 
effective miscellaneous sailsction! comprising hybrid Solanums, Hippe- 
astrums, Aucuba luteo-carpa, the berries, however, having a reddish 
tinge, and various flowering plants, the gem cf which was the lovely 
Tillandsia Lindeni, of which a figure and full description will be 
found in vol. xviii., page 359. - 

Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, contributed a splendid miscellaneous 
group, in which were several Lycastes, Dendrobium crassinode, a 
magnificent spike of Odontoglossum Alexandre, Hyacinths in fine 
bloom, Aucubas in berry, and Hippeastrums. Messrs. Veitch also 
sent a very fine collection of Cyclamens, and one of Chinese Primulas 
of an excellent strain. 

Messrs. Dobson & Sons, of Isleworth, likewise sent a collection of 
Chinese Primulas; and Mr. Tomkins, nurseryman, Birmingham, 
Princess Louise Chinese Primrose, with large white flowers tinged 
with blush. Mr. Kinghorn, Sheen Nursery, Richmond, exhibited a 
yery fine specimen of the green-leaved Aucuba, covered with dense 
clusters of its brilliant berries. 7 

From Mr. Bull, Chelsea, came a numerous collection in which were 
several Palms, a fiae Encephalartos, Encephalartos: Ghellinchii, 
Diacenas, Aucubas, and numerous Orchids. Gastronema flammea, 
with beautiful intense rosy crimson flowers, received a first-class certi- 
ficate, and is a great acquisition. t 

Mr. Ware, Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, senta very interesting 
collection of spring-flowering plants, such as Cyclamen repandum, 
C. Atkinsi, Primula denticulata, Spirea japonica, Iris reticulata, We. 
Mr. Ware also exhibited a collection of succulent plants. 

Messrs. Cutbush & Son, Highgate, exhibited a large and very 
effective miscellaneous collection, in which were a number of remark- ° 
ably fine Hyacinths, Spires japonica, and Cytisuses, backed with 
Palms. 

From Mr. W. Paul, Waltham Cross, came a group of eight fine 
specimen Camellias full of buds and bloom, and with dark glossy foliage 
betokening perfect health and vigour. Accompanying these were a 
number of smaller plants not in flower, and in front of alla row of 
Correa cardinalis about 1 foot high, and producing a profusion of 
their brilliant scarlet blooms, which offered a striking contrast to the 
green leafage behind. Mr. W. Paul also exhibited boxes of very fine 
cut blooms. Myr. Baxter, gardener to C. Keiser, Msq., of Broxbourne, 
also sent a box of fine cut blooms, and one of Kelvingtoniana, very 
large and fine. HWrom Mr. Goddard, gardener to H. Little, Esq., 
Cambridge Park, Twickenham, came a fine collection of Cyclamens, 
and a similar collection of larger plants in fine bloom came from Mr. 
Day, Acton Grean. Mr. W. Paul again exhibited his Primula, 
Waltham Bride, with very large pure white flowers. Mr. George, 
gardener to Miss Nicholson, Putney Heath, again sent his new 
Solanem, called Robustum aureum, with orange berries. Ei. J. Lowe, 
Esq., Highfield House, Nottingham, sent several seedling Ferns, 
among which were Polystichum angulare Moorei, a dwarf form raised 
from P. angulare acrocladon and depauperatum ; also Scolopendrium 
vulgare proteoides, with a remarkable diversity of fronds, the plant being 
a viviparous one from a frond of S. y. pseudo-Wardii. 

Mr. Green, gardener to W. Wilson Saunders, Hsq., exhibited a new 
species of Agaye from Africa, and A. Bessereriana amena, of a glau- 
cous hue, with dark-coloured very sharp spines. i 

Messrs. Veitch sent a collection of plants to compete for the prizes 
offered by Major Trevor Clarke, for the exhibitors obtaining the 
greatest number of marks for plants illustrating the phenomena of 
hybridisation. Messrs. Veitch’s specimens consisted of Alocasia Sédeni, 
Nepenthes hybrida, N. hybrida maculata, Rhododendron Princess 
Royal, Goodyera Veitchii, Hcheveria glauco-metallica, a fine specimen 
of Nepenthes Dominiana, and a Cypripedium. 

Mr. Stevens, gardener to G. Simpson, Hsq., Wray Park, Reigate, 
sent a basket of Lachenalia tricolor, which had an ornamental effect 
as a hanging basket. Messrs. Paul & Son sent Hippeastrum vittatum 
rubrum to show its utility as a hardy early bulb for forcing. At Cheg= 
hunt it is grown out of doors and merely protected with some leaves. 


122 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ February 16, 1871. 


ne ee SS aa 


First-class certificates were awarded to Mr. Green for Agave Bes- 
sereriana amcna; to Mr. Tomkins for Primula Princess Louise ; to 
Mr. Denning for Pilumna fragrans; and to Mr. Bull for Gastronema 
flammea. 

Special certificates were awarded to the following—viz., to Mr. W. 
Paul for Camellias in pots, also for cut blooms; to Messrs. Rollisson 
for a group of plants; to Mr. Denning for a collection of Orchids; to 
Mr. Ware for Succulents and spring flowers; to Mr. Edmonds for 
Cyclamens ; to Messrs. Cutbush for a miscellaneous group; to Mr. 
Denning for Dendrochilum glumacenm, also for Cociogyne cristata and 
Pilumna fragrans ; to Messrs. Veitch for twenty-four Primula sinensis 
and for Cyclamens; to Mr. Day for specimen Cyclamens; to Mr. 
Stevens for Lachenalia tricolor; to Mr. Bull for Orchids, also for his 
collection of Palms, &c.; to Mr. Goddard for Cyclamens; to Mr. 
Baxter for cut Camellias; to Mr. Williams for a group of plants, also 
for a collection of Orchids; to Messrs. Veitch for their miscellaneous 
group of plants ; and to Mr. Kinghorn for his berried Aucuba. A special 
certificate was also given for the group from the Society's garden. 

Prizes were offered for the best six Primulas. The first prize was 
awarded to Mr. G. Goddard, gardener to H. Little, Esq., Twickenham, 
who had finely-bloomed plants of white and crimson varieties. Mr. 
Edmonds, Hayes Nursery, was second, having two pretty little double 
varieties. 

The first prize for the best three Dielytras was awarded to Mr. Bull 
for specimens by no means remarkable. No second prize was given. 

Prizes were also offered for six Lycastes. Mr. Denning, gardener 
to Lord nee porceey Dad the first prize for three remarkably fine 
specimens, an ee of less size, Lyc i i being 
ee , Lycaste Skinneri being the only 

A letter from the Rey. Joshua Dix, the Chairman of the Committee, 
was read, tendering his resignation of that office in consequence of 
illness, but the Committee expressed a strong feeling against the 
acceptance of the rey. gentleman's resignation, and requested he would 
continue with them at least till the end of the year. 


GENERAL Meetinc.—J. Bateman, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. 
Thirty-one new Fellows having been elected, and the Committee 
awards announced, the Rey. M.J. Berkeley, inremarking on the objects 
exhibited, particularly directed attention to Tillandsia Lindeni, which, 
he said, was most exquisite, and promised, in the case of Mr. Williams's 
plant, to produce a long succession of its azure flowers, a colour than 
which none probably was more wanted in our collections. 
Gastronema, at first thought to be a Vallota, was next referred to as 


being a brilliant Amaryllid, a true Gastronema, and entirely distinct | 


from G. sanguineum. Scolopendrium yulgare proteoides, from Mr. 
Lowe, was then noticed as being a great curiosity, producing on one 


bulbils, by which it could be propagated. Mr. Robinson had brought a 
beautiful golden Lichen from California, of which a specimen was 
before the meeting. It was the same as Borrera flavicans, which grows 
on trees in Devonshire and in Madeira. The tuberiform bodies 


which are found on the roots of Peas, Beans, and other Leguminose | 


had recently occupied some attention, and they had by some persons 
been considered to be galls produced by insects, by others as being 
connected with the nutrition of the plant. Similar bodies had been 
noticed on Conifers and the Alder. - At present nothing certain was 
known respecting their nature, but he had sown a quantity of Bean 
seed in order to endeavour to arrive at some satisfactory conclusion. 

Mr. Bateman said he had never seen a richer gathering of Orchids 
than that exhibited, and expressed his gratification at seeing the 
nurserymen putting forth their strength. In connection with the 
beautifcl Phalenopsis from Lord Londesborough, Mr. Bateman re- 
marked that there was a prospect of new species of Phalenopsis and 
othe Orchids from a Scotch gentleman in New Guinea. That vast 
island was the most perfect terra incognita he knew of, for, except that 
Wallace had giyen an account of his travels on its western side, he 
was aware of no other white man who had visited it. He had been 
authorised by the Society to secure the assistance of the gentleman 
referred to in collecting plants, Messrs. Veitch’s Dendrobium hetero- 
carpum was noticed on account of its delicious scent of Violets; also 
Pilumna fragrans from Lord Londesborough, and which should now be 
called Trichopilia fragrans. It, together with Cologyne cristata, some 
of the Cattleyas, and Odontoglossam Alexandre were what he called 
bridal Orchids, from their colours being white and gold. After refer- 
ring to some other Orchids exhibited, Mr. Bateman said the golden 
Lichen would be an admirable substitute for what was known as French 
Moss, so much used in dinner-table decoration, and which lately it had 
not been possible to obtain. He thought it would well repay anyone 
who would get the urchins in Devonshire to collect it, in order to send 
it to the London market. 

Mr. William Paul then read a paper on the Camellia, which we 
shall publish next-week. 

‘Mx. Marshall said there appeared to be some misapprehensions 
with regard to the conditions of competition for the challenge cup 
[These were stated at page 49.], and again explained them. He 
further remarked that the challenge cup of the value of £0, to be 
given to anyone winning it three times had been withdrawn, and a 
cup, value £25, to be given yearly, was to be substituted. 


Royan Horrrcurtursan SocreTy’s PRIZES FoR PRIMROSES.— 
We are requested to state that the competition for prizes 


— 


Mr. Bull's | 


| combinations of colour, all tend to 


root Parsley-like, forked, and pinnated foliage, and on this a number of pine DUTD Ose. 


offered for Primroses by the Royal Horticultural Society will 
take place on April 5th instead of on May 3rd. 


ROYAL HCRTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S PRIZE 
FOR HYACINTHS. 


Tux prize for white Hyacinths was intended as a special 
premium for a definite purpose. What this was I will try to 
explain, by taking the case of an intending amateur purchaser 
of a few good Hyacinths for the ornament of his house or 
houses. The first thing he does is to consult his nurseryman’s 
bulb catalogue, where he finds from twenty to forty sorts of 
each colour, single and double respectively. From these lists 
he has to make his choice on very inadequate data. Price is 
scarcely @ criterion, for many of the finest sorts are com- 
paratively cheap; often, too, the difference in quality between 
these and some higher-priced novelties is not very striking. 
Many varieties so nearly resemble each other, that none but a 
Dutch grower or other expert could distinguish them, much 
less the ordinary lady or gentleman amateur. By the proposed 
method of exhibition, a2 good number of varieties of one de- 
scription of flower, as to colour, will be, as it were, paraded for 
inspection by the public, who may thus gain such a knowledge 
of the respective merits of varieties as could be obtained in no 
other way. The white form was selected as best suited for a 
trial of the merits of the system, to be followed by like pre- 
miums for other colours. Your correspondent would have no 
difficulty in purchasing two additional whites in the trade to 
make up his collection. 

I hope the Rey. H. Dombrain, whose opinion in such matters 
is entitled to respect, will see that the premium in question 
was not a mere random or meaningless experiment.—C. 


CIRCULAR FLOWER BEDS. 


Or the various geometrical forms introduced into flower- 
garden designs there is none so useful as the circle; the ease 
with which it may be adapted to any position, its graceful out- 
line, and the great scope which it affords for producing skilfcl 
make it very desirable for 
Seen in contrast with angular beds circles are 
quite certain to be viewed favourably; the soft outlines meeting 


| the eye from every point of view convey ap impression of grace 


and refinement such as the most skilful planting fails to impart 
to the stiff formality of an angle. Another advantage is, that 
a number of circles of the same size may be arranged in groups 
of three or more, ora large circle may be surrounded hy a ring 
of smaller ones. 


Fig. 1. 
In planting such beds due regard must be paid to their size. 


Those measuring from 3 to 6 feet in diameter appear best when 
filled with one colour only, while in larger circles two or more 
colours may be introduced with an equally pleasing effect. In 
the latter case it is of much importance that the subdivisions 
should be so arranged as to be sufficiently clear of each other, 
in order to present the design to the eye free from all confusion. 
To do this it is best to mark the outline of any figure which 


February 16, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


123 


may be introduced into the circle with distinct-coloured, erect- ; graceful, rich, and dignified, that it might bear favourable com- 


growing, fine-foliaged plants, so that each compartment or 
division of the design may stand out clearly and distinctly, 
however intricate may be the pattern. There are a large num- 
ber of figures suitable for such a purpose, a knowledge of geo- 
metry enabling one to introduce them in an almost endless 
variety ; but I would always prefer simple forms rather than 
very intricate ones, not to avoid any difficulty of colouring, but 
because a design composed of a few simple lines is certain to 
produce the more pleasing effect. 

By way of illustration I append four examples, each having 
two distinct arrangements of colour. All these designs are 
suitable for circles of from 10 to 20 feet in diameter. _:.— 


ie ces 


Fig. 2. 
ARRANGEMENT OF COLOURS. 
Fig. 1. Fig. 2. 
1. Sempervivum californicum 1. Gnaphalium lanatum 
2. Lobelia Trentham Blue 2. Iresine Herbstii 
8. Coleus Verschaffelti 8. Gnaphalium lanatum 
4, Pelargonium Lady Cullum 4. Iresine Herbstii 
5. Chrysanthemum Sensation 
Or— r— 
1, Pyrethrum Golden Feather 1. Cerastium tomentosum 
2. Iresine Lindeni 2. Lobelia speciosa 
8. Pelargonium Miss Kingsbury 8. Vinca major elegantissima 
4, Purple King Verbena 4. Iresine Lindeni (Gem 
5. Pelargonium Crystal Palace 
Fig. 3. Fig. 4. 
1, A ramp faced with one row of 1, Alternanthera amcena 
Sempervivum californicum 2. Pyrethrum Golden Feather 
2. Alternanthera amceena 8. Pelargonium Miss Kingsbury, 
8. Variegated Japanese Honey- with the flowers kept picked 
suckle off. 
4, Santolina incana 4, Heliotrope Beauty of the Bou- 
5. Lobelia pumila elegans doir 
6. ae amcena 5. Pelargonium Maid of Kent 
ro 
1. Cerastiam tomentosum Or— 
2. Lobelia Trentham Blue 1, Santolina incana 
3. Santolina incana 2. Alternanthera amona 
4, Tresine Lindeni 3. Pelargonium Crystal Palace 
5. Pelargonium Pearl (Pearson’s) Gem 
6. Polemonium cruleum varie- 4, Lobelia Little Gem 
gatum 5. Coleus Verschaffelti 


I have thus combined a few choice bedding plants, but it 
should be remembered that the position of a bed and the nature 
of its surroundings must be known before any suitable arrange- 
ment of plants can be given for it. Take, for instance, a circle 
or number of circles situated on a broad, extensive lawn, or 
near a lofty mansion, or where there are large specimen shrubs, 
the planting of these beds should certainly be massive in cha- 
racter, even if the beds are 10 or 12 feet in diameter. One 
bed might be a mass of crimson with a broad band of yellow; 
the next might have three colours—white, pink, and purple; 
then we might have a grand mass of Golden Tricolor Pelargo- 
nium Lady Cullum surrounded by& broad band of Trentham 
Blue Lobelia; and so I would go on to the end with these 
alternating masses, just sufficiently varied to avoid monotony. 
Fancy a chain of such beds on a wide-spreading lawn, the beds 
Surrounding yet well away from a fountain of an architectural 
design, and with fine masses of shrubs, or noble specimens of 
these, forming an enclosure or background, and you have a 
scene of rare loyeliness—simple it may be in form, yet so 


{ 


parison with the most complicated geometrical design. No 
objection could be taken to it on the score of heaviness, for the 
waters of the fountain would impart lightness and animation, 
and would also serve to agreeably break up or relieve the other- 


Fig. 3. 


wise flat surface. It is in the few beds of small gardens or 
grounds that I would introduce a more mixed style of colouring 


ND oO 


a 


Fig. 4. 


throughout, aiming to combine as much of interest and beau’y 
as the space would admit of.—Epwarp Lucxuurst. 


WHAT IS A WEED? 


Ava meeting of our Mutual Instruction Club last Monday, 
the question was asked by one of our members, Is not any plant 
2, weed that is growing where it is not required? This led toa 
dispute, and many were the answers as to What is a weed? 
Failing to reach to a unanimous answer, it was resolved to ask. 
for your definition.—A. R. 


[No plant in the estimation of the botanist is a weed, but 
with the gardener any herb that is not cultivated for its utility, 
beauty, or fragrance is a weed. Your member’s definition is 
too wide. Mignonette sprung up among Cabbages would not 
deserve the epithet of a weed—it would only be a flower in the 
wrong place. Whilst writing we have had the following extract 
from the Philadelphia Ledger brought to our notice:—‘‘It is 
stated that there are now no less than 214 weeds which have 
been introduced into the United States from foreign countries, 
and principally from England. As a proof of the rapidity with 
which useless plants are accidentally brought over the seas, it is 
gaid that in 1837 there were only 137 foreign weeds known in 
this country. As far back as 1672 a curious little volume, 


124 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ February 16, 1871. 


called ‘‘New England’s Rarities,” gave a list of twenty-two | 
plants which the author considered had sprung up since the 
Hnuglish had kept cattlein New England. The author mentions 
the Plantain, which, he says, the Indians call the ‘‘ English- 
man’s foot,’ as though produced by the tread of the white 
settlers. The common Yellow Toad Flax, it is stated, was 
originally introduced into the province of Pennsylvania as a 
garden flower by a Mr. Raustead, a Welshman, residing in 
Philadelphia, from whom it has derived the name of Ranstead 
weed. In 1758 this weed had overrun the pastures in the in- 
habited part of Pennsylvania, and was the cause of bitter com- 
plaints from the agriculturists of that day. Chickweed, it is 
stated, was introduced in South Carolina as food for canary 
birds, and in ten years spread for upwards of fifty miles, and 
now occupies the outposts of civilisation. The Scotch Thistle 
is said to have been brought to America by a clergyman who 
carried with him a bed stuffed with Thistle down, in which 
Some seedremained. Feathers being cheap in the new country 
were substituted for the down, which was-soon emptied out, 
and the seed springing up filled the country with Thistles. 
Another account says some enthusiastic Scot introduced the 
Thistle as an emblem of his country, which soon made itself at 
home and became a nuisance.” We do not know whether our 
American cousins will add to their Alabama claims a claim for 
compensation for the intrusion of weeds, but, if they do, we 
hope our Government will plead as a full set-off the introduc- 
tion of that unconquerable Anerican aquatic weed, Anacharis 
alsinastram, which is filling our ponds, choking our reservoirs 
and hampering our water-wheels.—Eps. | 


DEATH OF VINES UNEXPLAINED. 


Srx of my Vines are quite dead. There were thirteen in the house, 
all healthy flourishing canes last year, and seven are so still. They 
are side by side, and all treated exactly alike. They were all pruned 
2s usual and dressed the same as in other years. From half to three- 
quarters of a pound of tobacco paper, 2 ozs. of Gishurst compound, a 
little sulphur, and a little soot and lime were all boiled-up together, 
and stood two days and two nights. I dressed the Vines twice, also a 
jate vinery and Peach house. I covered-up the border at twice fearing 
it would heat, and started the Vines on the 1st of January, when I 
found the result I have mentioned. I have well examined the roots 
and find they are quite alive and full of sap. The Vines are quite a 
mystery to me and all my fellow gardeners.—A Constant READER. 

[A number of years ago we chronicled how Vines and Peaches in a 
large place were nearly killed, and no reason could be assigned except 
the dressing. We can think of nothing else. The boiling of materials 
amakes a great difference, and if the wood were unequally ripened, we 
should not be surprised. What say our readers? If the roots had 
not been examined, we might have given that for a reason.—EDs. | 


RABBITS AND APPLE TREES. 


3 Do cordon Apple trees breed rabbits, as the barnacle, accord- 
=nz to our ancient mariners, did barnacle geese? I begin to 
think so, for till the frost and snow last Christmas I saw no 
rabbits; but then came the storm of snow and rabbits, their 
traces like as if a multitude had spent the night near my 
Apple trees. They commenced operations by biting off all the 
buds—the frost some 12° or 14°. The next operation was 
taking off the bark from the young shoots; then came 20° to 
26° of frost, and all the shoots were eaten and the stems 
barked, so that my trees were skeletons, I believe myself to 
be a victim to fine writing, for I think I read in your columns 
{no, it must haye been in some other periodical), that cordon 
Apple trees would make a fortune for a market gardener if 
properly trained. I had had some planted in my walled garden 
for two or three years, and, although they had not borne abun- 
dantly, yet they gaye me fine fruit, and looked pretty when in 
bloom; but this market-garden business awoke me as from 
2 sleep, and so the last two years I planted cordons rather ex- 
tensively, and now, when just on the point of reaping the fruits 
of my labour, the rabbits are before me. 

I could not protect without a large quantity of bushes or 
straw, and the cosmetics—painting, with the usual odorous 
compounds—I found not of the slightest use. The only safe 
method of growing cordon Apple trees is in a walled garden, 
for if fenced with wire, rabbits burrow under the fence, unless 
the lower portion is buried. It is very remarkable to find in 
Severe weather the great love for Apple trees shown by hares 
and rabbits. Some old men have told me-that hares have been 
traced in the snow three miles and upwards from a preserve to 
a garden. I quite credit this, for whereas I had not seena | 


hare till the 22nd of last December, I was astounded to see 
their numerous traces from that period. If anyone wishes to 
see rabbits and hares by moonlight in severe weather, he 
should plant cordon Apple trees in an unfenced garden,—A 
RaBeir VICTIM. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. : 

ContinvE the preparation of ground for crops in general, 
but beware of carrying it on when the soil is wet; better bea 
fortnight late with any crop. Where the soil of the kitchen 
garden is light and sandy it is best dug or trenched some 
weeks before it is wanted for certain crops, especially Broad 
Beans, which like a-firm hold of the soil. Give all Asparagus 
beds a slight salting; this should be done after soiling, the 
rains will carry the salt down. A bed of early Cabbages may 
be sown on a warm border, also shortly some Leeks, Green Kale, 
Savoys, and Brussels Sprouts, for early purposes. Onions 
should be sown as soon as possible; choose a piece of ground 
which has been deeply dug or trenched, and well manured, 
throw it into beds, sow it when dry, cover thinly, and roll 
hard, except in the case of clayey soil. It will be well to strew 


| cinder ashe8 or very sharp sand amongst the stems of the 


early Peas, as the slugs, from long confinement, will be un- 
usually voracious this spring. Let the Parsnips be sown as 
soon as the ground is in a fit state. Replant all old Box 
edgings, and keep them for the future neatly and closely 
clipped. Repair all other edgings to walks, and take advantage 
of the gravel walks being soft to turn them, and to roll them 
firmly. Much may now be done in a day, and in a better 
manner than when the surface is hardened by parching winds 
and hot sun, and the walks will be more easily kept in good 
condition afterwards. Keep correct memoranda of all pro- 
ceedings, the quantity and quality of manure made use of for 
all crops, the state of the soil when applied, and the success or 
otherwise of the application. The knowledge how a manure 


| has acted on certain soils in other seasons, will be found use- 
| ful as a means of discovering the cause why results do not 


always accord. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

I shall suppose the pruning, tying, and training of espaliers 
and all other fruit trees has been brought to 2 conclusion, 
except, perhaps, as regards a few Peaches and Nectarines, and 
that the trees which are infested with Moss and Lichens have 
been dressed as before recommended. It will now be very 
interesting to notice the daily’ progress of the bed which, 
considering all matters, is seldom observed in finer condition 
forfuture prospects. Hvery advantage must be taken of drying 
windy days to stir and hoe the surface, and a sharp look-out 
must be kept to prevent injury to the buds of wall trees now in 
a forward state. Where nets or bunting cannot be procured 
for protecting the blossom, suspend from the top of the wall to 
the bottom of the trees a quantity of straw or hay ropes, made 
with a few projecting loose straws; dry fern or spruce branches 
may be nailed over the branches of the trees with advantage, 


‘Look to the Fig trees; prune and train those requiring it. 


tying or bending the strong shoots down, which will induce them 
to push out a number of very short-jointed bearing shoots. 


: FLOWER GARDEN. 

All grass lawns should now have a thorough rolling, and all 
turfing repairs should be completed forthwith. Where it is ab- 
solutely necessary to cut the edges of walks, let it bs done now, 
and as soon as accomplished run a heavy roller several times 
up and down the edges to soften the cut line. All edges should, 
if possible, have a slight inclination towards the walk, and they 
should only be fresh cut in consequence of irregularities in the 
line. High-kept lawns should have a single mowing soon after 
rolling. The severe weather we have had nearly up to the 
present time has precluded any floricultural operations being 
carried forward. There never was, however, a better time for 
collecting and forming composts, and preparing for future use, 
by frequent turning, those which have already been made. The 
amateur has no excuse if,his soil heaps have not been frozen 
through and through during the severe weather, and the whole 
tribe of insects and their eggs completely exterminated. Anuri- 
culas should have the decayed and decaying leaves carefully 
removed, and, if not already applied, a top-dressing of fresh 
compost; a gradual increase may take place in the supply of 
water. Carnations and Picotees in pots require to be kept clean 
and comparatively dry, and they should have the surface of 
the soil frequently stirred. The compost for potting them in 


ae 


_phcreatn UNTIED dines. _ - z 
eee ee 


February 16, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


125 


due time should be prepared; it may consist of the following | Trenching and turning soil must be the order of the day in the 


ingredients—yiz., one-half of tuf#y loam, one-fourth of manure 
reduced to the state of fine mould (cow dung is to be preferred), 
and one-fourth of coarse gritty sand, which may be road or 
river sand. Even small stones may be allowed for drainage, 
when the necessary waterings need give rise to no unpleasant 
apprehensions. 

f GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Young plants of Allemandas, Clerodendrons, Torenias, and 
many other subjects, if encouraged with a little bottom heat 
and favourable cixcumstances, will form. useful specimens in @ 
few months, and large masses of Statices, than which few 
plants are more serviceable, will under good treatment be ob- 
tained ina short time. The showy Impatiens Jerdonixz should 
also be encouraged by every possible means to make wood, and 
let it be propagated as quickly and freely as possible, for it is 
very useful for autumn decoration. The dwart Heliotropes, 
where sweet-scented flowers are in request, will likewise be 
found useful for blooming under glass. In fact, where the 
stock in hand is deficient, as it will be in many places after so 
seyere a winter, not a day should be lost in making every pos- 
sible effort to provide for what is likely to be wanted. Pelar- 
goniums should be duly attended to in respect to staking and 
tying out the branches, so as to induce them to form handsome 
specimens. They will bear repotting the moment blossom- 
buds are formed at the ends of theshoots. Tender annuals, as 
Balsams, Cockscombs, &¢., may now be sown. They succeed 
best in a frame, on a gentle bottom heat furnished by means 
of fermenting materials. Although heat is indispensable for 
raising these, it is not necessary for flowering them; indeed, 
most of them would bloom more beautifully if planted out in 
June in a warm, sheltered part of the garden, than if treated 
as greenhouse plants. Continue occasional sowings till the 
end of April in pans placed close to the glass, in a temperature 
of from 60° to 65°, keeping the soil moist, and shading it from 
bright sunshine. Care must be exercised to prevent the young 
plants from damping-off or being drawn up through want of 
air. As soon as they can be handled prick them off singly in 
small pots, or place three round the edge of a 4-inch pot, 
plunging them in a gentle heat till they can be safely trusted 
in the open borders ; or they may be pricked out in rows on a 
spent hotbed, shading carefully, and giving plenty of air when 
the weather will permit. To secure fine plants and a pro- 
fusion of bloom it is of the greatest importance to sow early. 
Attend carefully to the stock of bedding plants, and pot off 
rooted cuttings as soon as they are in a fit state for that pur- 
pose: Encourage them with a gentle bottom heat and careful 
management, to make quick growth, for after this season there 
is no time to be lost with young stock.—W. Kuanz. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


ArtEeR close sloppy weather we were again visited with a 
sharp black frost on the night of the 10th and 11th, the first 
rather unexpectedly showing some 14° below freezing in the 
mornivg. The frost has been favourable for rough ground- 
work, as moving soil, making alterations, levelling, &., but it 
has retarded much work in the way of planting, where the 
roots must necessarily be exposed. A great many young trees 
and shrubs intended for profit, for ornament, protection, or 
game cover are much injured when the roots are exposed for 
some time to a dry parching frosty wind, such as we had on 
the two days mentioned above. When a number of men are 
anxious for work a line must be drawn between what is due 
to them and the ultimate welfare of the trees. To their credit, 
be it said, most of the great nurserymen send out trees in 
winter so well packed and secured at the roots, that it is next 
to impossible they can be injured. Even if a severe frost 
should reach the roots through the packing, that will do but 
little injury if light and wind be kept from them. In other 
nurseries we have seen numbers of fine trees and shrubs taken 
up, and their roots left exposed for days in frosty weather 
before being sent out. In such cases fresh roots, fibres, and 
even large-sized roots must be formed before there is much 
growth, and this, we have no doubf, is one reason why trees 
that often break well in the spring after planting begin to be- 
come stunted, brown, and shrivel up and die as the sun gains 
power, there being no root-action to supply the demands of sun 
and heat on the stem and unfolding shoots. 

KITCHEN GARDEN. 
For this department refer to the notices of last week, 


open ground, and preparing for and sowing Beans and Peas, 
and getting both forward under protection for plaiting out as 
the first crops. 

Red Lead for Seeds.—In making all such sowings, taking 
past experience for our guide, we shall coat every Pea with red 
lead before sowing. A very little lead, as much as may be helé 
between the thumb and two fingers, if these are of average size, 
will do for a quart of Peas, previously merely damping the Peas 
a little, or placing water over them for a few minutes, and 
then draining all the water clean off before applying the lead, 
and working it all through the Peas with a flat wooden stick, 
as itis advisable to use the hand as little as possible among 
the damp lead. If the sower has any cracks or cuts on his 
hands he had better sow with a rounded trowel or something 
of that sort, and be careful to leave no lead between the flesh 
and nails of his fingers. By this mode we have found that 
nothing. will touch the Peas or other seeds so used until the 
seedlings are above ground; and the singular point is that 
rows of Peas thus treated seldom have a single hole made i® 
them, the intruders of all kinds, fowl and four-footed, haying 
an instinctive knowledge that what is below is not for them. 
We have sown rows leaded and unleaded side by side. The 
first never had a hole made in them, the second in ths course 
of a week, from mice, pheasants, &c., had scarcely a seed left. 
As the small quantity of lead used merely for colouring would 
be thrown off by the expanding and ultimately perishing seed 
leaves, we cannot see how the small quantity of lead coulé 
have any injurious property on the crops presented at table.. 
Without netting or anything of the sort, we do not think we 
lost a seed of any of the Cabbage, Turnip, or Lettuce tribe, 
to which the red lead was applied. In such instances no 
more seed should be coloured than it is intended to sow at one 
time. 

Cabbages.—Though, as we stated last week, all the forward 
crops have greatly suffered, if they have not been quite de- 
stroyed in many places, we are glad to hear that where the soil 
was light and dry the plants have stood well, and will, there- 
fore, be extra valuable. We have been informed, too, that 
in many places fine beds of seedlings have. stood well, and, 
therefore, there will be a chance of getting Cabbages, though 
not so early as in the generality of seasons. Those who 
have no other resources must plant as soon as possible in 
well-pulverised soil. Where there are the means of placing 
the plants in a mild hotbed, under glass or other protection, 
either singly in small pots, or some 4 inches apart, in rich soil 
to be raised with balls, and in either case transferred with well 


| established roots to nice, friable, pulverised soil, much time will 


be gained. All this labour may to some people seem next to 
thrown away ; but, then, they cannot look upon a nice crisp 
Cabbage early, with the heart just turning yellow, as we do. 
Whilst we regret that so many of our cottage gardeners are 
deprived by the frost of what would have been to them a source 
of wholesome food, we rejoice that others are more fortunate, 
and thus a better price will be obtained for what they choose: 
to sell. © 3 

An old friend of ours when there was something like a 
general failure of some particular vegetable or fruit, used te 
express his satisfaction and something like thankfulness, that 
he was no worse off than his neighbours. There may be some- 
thing soothing in knowing that we have companions in such 
failures and disappointments. We never could see, however,. 
how the failures and disappointments of others joined to our 
own could help us in the least, or form any source of con-- 
solation. In the present instance, as respects the standing or 
the failing of the Cabbage tribe, we believe there is little room 
for glorying or boasting of the success, as the most of it would 
depend on the peculiarities of the weather, of the soil, and of 
position. If the readings of thermometers be at all correct... 
there haye been wonderful variations of temperature this 
winter, in what we should be led to consider similar circum- 
stances. Strangers coming here on such days as the 11th, can 
hardly manage to keep themselves warm. Hven a mile or half 
a mile will often make a great difference as to our sensations of 
heat and cold. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

See previous weeks’ notices. During the week there would 
be about one hour and a half of sunshine, and that would do 
wonders for Peaches in bloom. We need not, howeyer, repeat 
what has lately been stated. Anything like fruit-tree planting, 
has been out of the question, but pruning and nailing could be 
proceeded with. In all weather fair above head, there is little 


126 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 16, 1871. 


difficulty as respects pruning; a man can keep himself com- 
fortable at that. But what is the use of nailing when the 
fingers cannot hold the nail and shred comfortably ? We have 
pretended to nail with the trees covered with snow, and the 
Snow drifting enough to smother one. What was the use of 
such waste of labour power, with work needing to be done 
under shelter? We are sorry to say that such ill-timed work is 
irequently beyond the control of the gardener. Some pro- 
prietors, if they set their mind on having certain work done, 
have no idea of a stoppage irom that work, let the weather be 
what it may. Years ago we made two visits to a large place 
within the space of two or three months. On the first occasion 
men with their coats buttoned to the chin as a defence against 
the heavy sleet and rain, were wheeling a large heap of dung 
on to the quarters with the wheel of the barrow up to the 
asil in mud, and doing great damage to the walks. On the 
Second occasion, the same men were in some danger of sup- 
stroke in washing and cleaning Vines in a vinery in a bright 
sunny day. Leaving other considerations out of view, there 
cotld be little fitness or economy in such ill-directed, ill-timed 
labour. 

Heating.—We have just had fresh piping put into a small 
division of a yinery. We could not at present enter on the 
large cne-boiler system. For this compartment and other 
laces there was a small separate boiler. In the vinery part 
we had only one pipe round underneath the stage, helped by 
shallow zine reservoirs which we connected afterwards with this 
one pipe. These and the pipes had become too worn-out to be 
cobbled or mended. We could not help ourselves as to having 
the fresh pipes going round underneath the stage, but we car- 
ried out one of the ideas which we have often advised others 
to adopt, and that is to have as many flow-pipes as possible, 
and these on a level. As the flow and return pipes were there, 
and not far apart, there was joined to each a three-flow outlet 
syphon, so that we had three pipes round instead of the one. 
These three pipes are on a level with each other, and rise 
regularly some 3 inches from the point of junction withthe flow 
to the outlet syphon at the return, and an open air pipe is 
there inserted. The three pipes round therefore act as flows. 
They heat well and equally, and there is only a very short 
return from whence the three pipes terminate at the highest 
point. Weare aware that in theory there are some objections 
to this mode. These and other matters as respects heating 
need ventilating. All we can say at present is that we are 
gatisfied, and that we have advised and adopted the plan from 
finding that in stacks of pipes above each other the highest 
pipes are always the hottest. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT, 

Our time has been chiefly employed in alterations and 
groundwork, altering what had been done years ago. There is 
hardly a place where much may not often be done in this way. 
Different people have not only different tastes, but the same 
person may change his taste as often as he pleases. At one 
time the proprietor may rejoice in mounds, rough work, and 
the wild and tangled picturesque appearance, and such will 
ever present a contrast to the richest and most dressed parts of 
‘the pleasure ground. At another time such a scene, however 
pretty, diversified, and picturesque, may become monotonous, 
and cease to yield the pleasure it once did, and something 
of the gardenesque may be more desired, where the mounds, and 
‘the tangle, and the wildness, and variety may be replaced by 
the smooth lawn, with specimen shrubs and trees that will have 
room to grow and to show off their separate beauties. Who- 
ever pays for such changes hasa right to consider the improve- 
ments. They therefore do good in two ways: they give satis- 
faction to those who wish to have them made, and they often 
give employment when thatis scarce. Everybody likes change. 
We often think if we possessed an estate, and chiefly resided 
on it every day of the year, we should become tired of it, and 
-of seeing things day after day in the same position. We 
believe that fine gardens and noble conservatories are generally 
more appreciated by visitors than by the resident proprietors. 
Elegance and novelty are combined in the case of the former; 
the elegance is combined with an irksome sameness in the 
case of the latter. Hence, the advantage of allchanges. We 
ean easily imagine that the finest flower beds, the most elegant 
plants growing in a bed in a conservatory, the finest tree Ferns 
standing always in the same spot in a fernery under glass, in 
time lose more than half their charms to the resident pro- 
prietor, just because he sees them always in the same place 
and under the same circumstances. 

We are apt to forget that the most pleasing objects seen day 


after day become at last irksomag and insipid. Variety, fresh- 
ness of combination, would often do wonders where there are 
the labour and other means at hand for carrying them out. 
Thus, flowers are always delightful in a common greenkouse. 
To the visitor all is novel. The same arrangement day after 
day becomes tiresome to the proprietor. Hence, in the case 
of a fair-sized conservatory, where beauty, elegance, and good 
taste, combined with a continued and growing interest in it by 
the proprietcr, are to be first considerations—judging from our 
own feelings, were we similarly placed, we would plant out little 
except the climbers, but we would have beds deep enough so 
that the pots used might be covered with moss, and a band of 
Lycopods round, and then by arranging the plants differently 
every fortnight or so, the fresh combinations would in eyery- 
thing essential make a fresh house. Even in a greenhouse, 
where no attempt is made to conceal the pots, much may be 
done to dissipate’ morotony by changing the forms and sizes of 
groups and combinations. For resident proprietors a simple 
change is often as good as a real improvement, and on this 
account all changes that make variety are desirable. The plan 
of a flower garden may remain the same, and yet some variety 
may be produced by planting it differently every year. Were 
the design changed eyery year it would be better still. Few 
can equal our coadjutor, Mr. Robson, in this respect, but we 
have often thought what a source of pleasure it must be to the 
proprietors of Linton Park to be able to look on two fresh 
plans of the principal flower garden every year. Hyen that 
might not be sufficient variety for some people who have a 
dread of the monotonous. The subject is too large to admit of 
our doing more than giving these passing hints. 

We shall be anxious to commence turfing before long, and 
then it will give us no trouble in summer. 

Some main features as respects out-door work have already 
been alluded to. The forcing of flowering plants has also 
received notice lately. 

Bulbs.—There are complaints about these not doing well, 
and the flower stems being so short and dumpy. After duly 
potting, &c., the first essential to success is having the vessels 
filled with roots, whether pots or glasses, before the flower 
stem begins to move much; before that takes place the bulbs 
will be best in a dark place, such as a cupboard in a room, or 
any sheltered place out of doors where they can be covered up. 
Again, if the stems do not rise freely after the bulbs receive 
the heat of a sitting-room, a paper funnel placed over them, or 
eyen a reversed pot, will greatly assist to elongate the stem, 
and thus give room for the flowers to expand. 

All forward bulbs out of doors would be better in such 
weather of a little protection, such as cloths or mats over hoops, 
or a little dry soil or ashes over the bulb, or even evergreen 
twigs securely stuck in over the beds. The soil should be well 
mellowed for Ranunculus and Anemone planting ; Auriculas 
should be top-dressed with rich light compost in mild weather, 
and the plants kept from rains; and Carnations and Pinks de- 
fended from cold, slugs, and mice, not to say anything of rabbits 
and hares. . 

Many of our window and small-house gardeners will now be 
thinking of potting and repotting their fayourite plants; nume- 
rous young growing plants will need more room, and many, as 
Geraniums and Fuchsias, breaking after being shortened back 
a little, will want to haye much of the old soil cleared away, 
and to go at first into pots of the same size as before, or even 
smaller. The following are great helps to success—Ist, See 
that the soil and roots of a plant are moist enough before re- 
potting. If you put a dry ball into fresh soil it is next to 
impossible to wet it again by common watering. 2nd, See 
that the pots used are clean and dry. If not, besides other 
disadvantages, the ball will not come out <l:an and whole, but 
it will hang like birdlime to the sides of the pot. 3rd, Be sure 
that the soil used is fresh, well exposed to the air, warm, and 
not too fine. In cold weather the necessary warmth can easily 
be obtained by placing it near a fireplace, where no other means 
can be resorted to. It is well that the soil for all in-door plants 
should average about 60°. Then, as to roughness, the plants 
will thrive all the better if, for 4 and 6-inch pots, fully half of 
the bulk of the soil should range from the size of peas to that 
of field beans, mixed with the finer particles. A little of the 
rougher should go over the drainage. There is no better drain- 
age then a zinc cap over the hole, or a good crock with the 
rounded side downwards, and in either case smaller pieces of 
broken pot round it and over it, and a slight layer of green 
moss over all, the roughest compost over the moss. Finally, 
ayoid everything that will give a check to the plant, either by 


February 16, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GABDENER, 


subjecting the roots to extra cold water or cold soil, or the tops 
to a continued cold atmosphere, whilst they have previously 
been used to a temperate one. Sowing and cutting-striking in- 
doors must receive future attention.—R. F. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

*,.* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, &c., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 

N.B.—Many questions 
week. 

Booxs (Z. P.),— The Pine-Apple Manual.” You can have it free from 
our office by post if you send thirty-two post-office stamps with your 


address. (IM. Brown dé: Co.).—Hoge’s * Fruit Manual.’ Last edition, 1866, 
Price 5s. Out of print. New edition preparing. 


Fruit Manvat (W. C.).—The new edition is preparing for the press , 
and when ready will be advertised. 


must remain unanswered until next 


Tron Prees Cuoxep (W. 4. G.).—As you have a pipe to empty the’ 


boiler, we would risk placing from one half to 1 1b. of sal ammoniac in the 
‘supply cistern, getting a good heat up, and after a day or so draw off the 
water, fill with fresh, and repeat the dose. We advise this more in theory 
than as warranted by our own practice. An ounce of sal ammoniac put 
noty and then into the supply cistern would greatly prevent furring, but 
we are not 80 sure that it would dislodge it when formed. We are much 
surprised to learn that the water circulates so badly in your pipes, after 
‘being only four or five years in use. We have seen pipes rather badly 
furred, and the material inside hard, after being thirty years in use. We 
think you must have a peculiar water for the pipes to be crusted in- 
side after such a short time. It is just possible there is a considerable 
quantity of mudin the boiler and pipes, and emptying as atated above 
would relieve you of that. We almost think there must be something 
else wrong, as So long as there is waterway the pipes will heat. We once 
‘saw 4-inch pipes so furred that there was not a 2-inch passage, and so 
hard, like iron, was the incrustation that we had little faith in anything 
moving it, and we counselled fresh pipes. In one other case that came 
under our observation, the pipes were much choked up, but the incrus- 
‘tations were of a softer, moveable character. The owner dreaded going 
to the expense of new pipes, so we advised taking up the pipes, cleaning 
them with a wooden pole nearly their own diameter, and as the joints had 
been done with iron filings, instead of attempting to get them out, the 
collar and joint were cut, and a sliding collar put over to connect the 
pings. In ordinary cases, with a little sal ammoniac put in the water, the 
pipes may last half a century, and scarcely show a sign of furring. Itis 
eivays advisable to empty boilers at least once a-year, but the oftener 
the better. 


PRIMULAS AFTER FLOWERING (Emily).—The plants will flower a second 
year, and should, on their going out of flower, have all the flower-stalks and 
any yellow leaves removed, be kept rather dry, but not so as to cause the 
Jeaves to flag much, and be set on a shelf in the greenhouse, or other 
light, airy position. In June they may be set out of doors in a position 
-shaded from midday sun, and on coal ashes, so as to prevent worms from 
entering the pots Keep them sparingly watered, and remove all flowers 
as they appear. In August repot them, remoying any loose soil, or that 
which can be taken away without much injury to the roots, giving a 
moderate shift, and draining well. After potting place the plantsin a 
cold frame, setting the pots on ashes. Water the plants moderately, and 
admit air freely, and they will commence flowering in September, and 
econtinue to do so up to Christmas. We do not keep the old plants, but 
sow in March to raise plants for autumn and winter flowering, and sow 
again in July for spring bloom. The plants have finer foliage and larger 
‘flowers than those kept over a year. D 


Fancy PaLarconiums (H. J. L.).—If the plants are bushy or well fur- 
nished with shoots, we would not remove the flower-buds now showing, 
but if they are not compact in growth pinch them. Keep the plants near 
the glass, with plenty of air, but safe from frost. 


Puantinc HotiynHocss (Idem).—Pot them now, and defer planting out 
until April, hardening well off previously. They would succeed better 
mowin acoldframe than in a greenhouse. We fear they would not do 
any good in the ground by the Ash tree. Give them a good rich soil in 
an open situation, better if sheltered from winds. Considering that you 
have had all the Ash roots dug up, and that the tree is to the north of the 
‘border, the Hollyhocks might do fairly, but we should give them a more 
Suitable position if possible. A sieve of Apples is seven imperial gallons, 


SELECTION OF GRAPES FoR A VINERY (4 Young Grape Grower).—You do 
not say for what purpose you wish your selection. Alicante and Gros 
Guillaume are late Grapes, Trovéren Frontignan and White Nice are mid- 
“season varieties, and of the last two we would not have more than one 
in a selection of twelve. We would have two Alicante instead of one, 
and besides the other three named, two Lady Downe’s, two Bowood 
Muscat, two Mill Hill Hamburgh, and one Trebbiano. Mrs. Pince’s Black 
Muscat, and Madresfield Court Muscat, are amongst the finest of late 
Grapes, and ought to be in every selection of such, but you have fore- 
Stalled, and, therefore, limited our selection. 


CaMELLIA Bups FaLuine (WV. O.M.).—We do not think the heating 
has anything to do with the falling of the Camellia buds It arises from 
another cause—we believe from imperfect root action. We would repot 
them as soon as they go out of flower, or, if they do not flower, about the 
middle or end of March, turning them out of the pots, removing as 
much of the old soil as practicable from amongst the roots, picking it out 
with a pointed piece of wood, and preserving as many of the fresh roots 
as possible ; drain the pots well, and pot the plants firmly in the top inch 
‘layer of a pasture, where the soilisa light loam, chopping it up rather 
Small. Keep the soil moist, but do not make it vary wet until the 
Plants are growing freely, then water them copiously, and maintain a 


moist atmosphere with a moderate amount of air. We do not think the 
buds will fall next winter. Do not place the plants out of doors in summer, 
bnt after the buds are set keep thea in a cool airy house. A house 
slightly shaded in summer is most suitable. 

Pear TREES INFestTED WITH ScaLE (C. d.).—Yonr trees are suffering 
from scale, and we do not wonder at the absence of fruit. Unnail, or if 
tied loosen, the branches from the wall, and brush every part with paraftin 
oil. A solution of Gishurst compound, 8 ozs. to the gallon, will answer, 
and is not so offensive to apply. The earlier the dressing is done the 
better. Your trees being badly infested, it may be necessary to repeat 
the application next autumn after the leaves fall. 

VALUE OF CAMELLIA FIMBRIATA (A4n Old Subscriber).—The plant being 
“rather one-sided,” is not worth nearly so much as if it had been sym- 
metrical. Many would not buy it on that account, but if there are 
branches on that side, so that a year or two’s growth would secure its be- 
coming furnished, it is worth £20, presuming it to bein good health, and 
well furnished with branches. 


Fruit Trezs (R. W.).—Mr. Abbey informs us he has grown and now 
grows all the kinds named in his former article, and at page 85. The 
Apples, Pears, and Plums are grown ag pyramids. They are kept closely 
pinched, many being 7 fect 6 inches high, and 3 feet to 4 feet through, 
and this four years after planting. They have not been lifted since they 
were planted ; the lifting he considers unnecessary, as the trees are 6 feet 
apart, but those of the sizes named are 9 feet apart. They are masses of 
flower-buds. The Pears are on the Quince stock, and the Apples on the 
English Paradise. 

GREENHOUSE PLantTs;Not TuRIvine (J. C.).—Tho cause of the plants 
not thriving we should attribute, as you do, to the fumes given off by the 
hot-water pipes. The height of the house, we are confident, has nothing 
to do with it, for we have one considerably higher, and the plants thrive 
admirably. We think it is due to the white lead used in the preparation 
of the stone-coloured paint with which the hot-water pipes are coated. 
Nothing more is required to keep the pipes from rusting than painting 
with oil and a little lamp black. We should endeavour to remove the 
paint by wrapping them in cloths dipped in a solution of 8 ozs. of soft 
soap and 1 1b. of soda in a gallon of water. Tho pipes will need to be kept 
wet by the solution for at least twenty-four hours; therefore, the cloths 
must be watered with the solution, pouring it on them with a watering- 
pot. A strong solution of guano will. answer the same purpose. Scrape 
off the paint when loose, and wash with hot water. 


Lear Sort (Idem).—The small grubs are eommon in leaf soil, and we 
do not think they are injurious to the roots of plants. They disappear 
ii the leafy matter be turned over a few times, especially if the weather 
is frosty and dry. Place the soil under cover to dry before using it for 
potting. " 

SLOW-COMBUSTION STovE.—At page 101 2s. 4d. should be 24d. 


Guass GARDENS (S. Gosfield).—The writer you name must have meant 
Gilbey’s glass orchards, manufactured by Messrs. Dennis, of Chelmsford, 
or glass walls. You may hear about the latter if you write to Dr. Newing- 
ton, The Vineyard, Ticehurst, Sussex 


ToP-DRESSING Potators (J. B. K.).—Apply 8 cwt. per acre of guano 
Hoe the surface slightly after applying it. 

SEEDS FRoM AvSTRALIA (J. H.).—Solanum species is probably a green- 
house perennial. Sow in light sandy soil early in March, place in a 
hotbed, and remove to the greenhouse wken the seedlings are established 
in small pots. _Leptospermums have mostly white flowers, and are 
evergreen greenhouse plants. Sow in sandy loam and peat, and place 
in a hotbed in March. Goodia latifolia ig a greenhouse evergreen 
shrub with yellow flower@.sow in sandy peat and loam, and place in a 
hotbed in March. Billardiera cymosais an evergreen greenhouse climber ; 
sow in sandy peat and loam in a mild hotbed in March. Stenocarpus 
salignus is an evergreen groenhouse shrub, with greenish yellow flowers ; 
sow in a hotbed in March in sandy peat and loam. Kunzea (now Metro- 
sideros) corifolia is a white-fiowered greenhouse shrub, and to be treated 
like the others. Prostanthera nivea is a greenhouse evergreen; sow in 
sandy peat and loam in a mild hotbed in March or April. Leucophyta 
Brownii we do not know. Itis syngenesious. Eucalyptus Stuartiana is 
a greenhouse evergreen trea; sow in heat in sandy peat and loam. Indi- 
gofera australis is an evergreen greenhouse shrub with pink flowers in 
spring; sow in peat and loamin a hotbed. Of Enchyluena sarmentosa 
and Erimephila longifolia we cannot advise. Hakea saligna is a green- 
house evergreen shrub; sow in sandy peat and loam in a hotbed. 
Pomaderris elliptica is a greenhouse evergreen shrub with creamy 
flowers, not unlike a Ceanothus. Elwocarpus cyaneus is an ever- 
green greenhouse shrub with white flowers. Callitris cupressiformis 
is an evergreen coniferous tree, nearly if not quite hardy ; sow in heat 
in sandy loam. Lasiopetalum Baueri is a greenhouse evergreen shrub. 
This, as well as all the others, we should sow in March or early in April 
in sandy peat and loam, and place in a mild hotbed of 70° to 75°, keeping 
the plants, when up, near the glass, and when they have made two or 
three rough leaves pot off singly in small pots. Return to the hotbed, 
and keep rather close and shaded for a few days, then admit air freely, 
and remove to the greenhouse when hardened. Pot as the plants fill the 
pots with roots. 

PEAR-TREE InsEcT (4 Subscriber).—Probably it is the Slimy Grub (Se- 
landria «thiops). It does great damage to the leaves in summer and 
autumn. There is not any remedy so effectual as frequent dustings of 
the leayes with quicklime. Lime water and a solution of soft soap have 
been found useful at the rate of 2 lbs. of soft soap and a peck of lime to 
thirty gallons of water. Tobacco water—2 ozs. of tobacco to the gallon of 
water—has also been found satisfactory. Youcould graft any of the Acers 
ona Sycamore. We do not know of a weeping tree that would grow on it. 
They are all too large for gardens, though fine for pleasure grounds. 

CycLAMEN TREATMENT (4 Constant Reader).—Keep the seedlings in 
the greenhouse until June, then remove them to a coldframe; keep them 
rather dry, in August repot, and in September place them in a house 
near the glass with a temperature of 45°, They will flower next winter 
and spring if in good health. They are too small to flower now. If weak 
and poor in foliage we would encourage growth bya gentle heat, as you 
do the seedlings. 

Statice Hotrorpi not FLrowerine (K. MW. B).—The cause of failure 
is, we think, a deficiency of heat. Your placing the plant in the stove 
was not, perhaps, until it had shown the spikes which from the excite- 


128 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 16, 1871. 


ment consequent on the higher temperature was sufficient to cause them 
to fail. It will not do in a cool greenhouse, but does admirably in a 
warm one. Keepit near the glass, or afford plenty of light, and give no 
more water in winter than enough to keep the foliage fresh. 

NaMEs oF Fruit (Bolton Gardens).—No. 1, Winter Franc Réal, a stewing 
Pear; 4, Knight’s Monarch, a fine specimen of it, probably grown against 


a wall. The others we do not know. They appear to be worthless, 
except for stewing. 


Names oF Prants (Mary).—We cannot name plants from leayes only. 


POULTZY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRGNICLE. 


THE LANCASHIRE MOONEY. 


THERE is one point in connection with the breeding of Silver- 
spangled Hamburghs which I should like to bring before the 
notice of breeders and fanciers of this most beautifal variety, 
and that is the practical ignoring in the ‘Standard of Ex- 
colience,” and therefore by our judges, of that sub-variety 
culled the Lancashire Mooney. It is a well-known fact that it 
is from the pure-bred Mooney we get the most brilliant, the 
lirgest, and the most perfect moons or spangles, and it is 
e jually well-known that the finest specimens as stock birds are 
hea-feathered, and as such are considered, according to the 
present standard, defective in plumage and not admissible as 
show birds. In ‘*The Poultry Book,” it is mentioned as a 
characteristic of the pure-bred Silver Mooney that they throw 
hen-feathered cocks, this tendency being exactly reversed in 
the two varieties ; the Golden Pheasant and the Silver Mooney 
throwing hen-feathered cocks, such never being the case in the 
Golden Mooney or Silver Pheasant. 
decided as to the propriety of having pure Mooney blood on 
one or other of the sides if you wish for brilliant plumage. 
Mr. Beldon also, I know, considers this a sine qua non in the 
selection of stock birds; in fact, he has informed me he prefers 
the dark-necked cocks in every respect. Now, allthis may be 
considered merely as a matter of taste, but it is more serious, 
for, as the standard is now decided, we cannot hope to see this 
Pee Hamburgh brought up to that real standard of excel- 
ence. ~ 

According to the present system our judges insist on the 
cock having the deaf-ear opaque-white, with the tail white aud 
spangled at the end of the feathers, the deaf-ear of the hen 
being also white. Now, there is no doubt such markings look 
very beautiful, but all breeders of this variety know the almost 
insuperable difficulty of obtaining a beantifully-marked cock 
haying the deaf-ear opaque-white, one of the characteristics of 
the Silver Mooney being a small deaf-ear streaked with pink or 
red. By crossing with the Silver Pheasant we obtain exactly what 
we want, or rather what the judges demand, a large deaf-ear of 
tse most beautiful milky whiteness. Whenever I see a Silver- 
spengled Hamburgh fowl, however beautiful his plumage may 
be, with a large white deaf-ear, I at once set him down as a 
cercss between the Pheasant and the Mooney. By careful breed- 
ing by such experienced men as Mr. Beldon, the white deaf-ear 


and clear tail may be had on a certain per-centage of the: 


Mooney stock, but I am afraid these are exceptional birds. 
Again, is it not true that we cannot get size unless with the 
Pheasant blood, and that the big birds, other things being 
equal, have the best chance in the show pen ? 

Some may ask, What, though we cross, and are obliged to 
cross, our Mooney with the Pheasant to obtain our prize birds— 
whet harm? Simply this—these crossed birds are ureless as 
stock birds, always throwing badly-marked pullets, which, 2s 
Mr. Tegetmeier has pointed ont, will not stand the test of even 
one moult. Those birds ranking first in the prize list are, of 
course, bought up by amateurs like myself, who are not up to 
all the secrets of Hamburgh breeding, the consequence being a 
constant check to the perfect breeding of this most-beautiful of 
all the Hamburghs. Here we have the anomaly of the best 
priza bird being the worst stock bird. Some experienced 
breeders, with the laudable desire to save the Mooney from 
utter extinction, breed from two yards, one for the cockerels the 
otuer for pullets; but this system must be vicious, end no 
crossed birds should be admitted into the prize list unless in 
their true character. Why cannot committees give a small 
prize, even a recognition, to the best hen-feathered cock, or, 
What would be better, to the best pen of the sub-variety—the 
Lancashire Silyer Mooney? ‘Let it be better known that there 
is a distinction between the Mooney and the Pheasant, that the 
smal) deaf-ear, stained with pink or red, a rather coarse head, 
avd iether daik tail, mean a Lancashire Silver Mooney, and 


Mr. Tegetmeier is very | 


that a large deaf-ear of opaque whiteness, with a neatly-chiselled 
head and clear tail, can only be found in the Silver Pheasant. 
—James More, M.D., Rothwell, Northamptonshire. 


RESULTS OF POULTRY REARING. 


CotourEeD Dorkings are often considered very delicate. I dc 
not find them so. Last year I hatched seyenty-eight, and 
reared seventy-seven. I generally hatch about one hundred 
chickens, and I can certeinly say I have never yet lost four per 
cent. of them. This may appear strange, but it is nevertheless 
true, Ineed not say that every care is taken of the birds. 
They are fed every hour from early in the morning to late at 
night, are never allowed to go ont till the dew is off the grass, 
and are kept warm and very dry. The latter is very im- 
portant, but not more so than not breeding from birds too 
closely related. I am often astonished at the great losses 
amongst chickens that I see und hear of, and feel confident 
that if the above hints were followed, very few chickens would 
die. Ido not breed after May, as I find the chickens then are 
weak. My feeding is the same as is continually recommended 
in this Journal.—T. E. Kreuz, Wetherby. 


PORTSMOUTH POULTRY SHOW. 


Tuts was held on the 7th, Sth, and 9th inst., and was a decided 
success. The following awards were made. _ 


GamE.—Black and other Reds.—1, W. H. Stagg, Netherayon. 2, Capt. H- 
Adney, Goodworth, Clatford (Black Reds). ke, G. Bainton, Southsea (brow 
Reds); R. Hall, Cambridge (Black Reds); W.H.Stagg. c, C. H. Ames, Henley 
(Black Reds). Any other Variely—i, S. Matthew, Stowmarket (Duckwing). 
2, G. Potts, Chartham (Pile). he, R. Hall (Duckwing). is 

Cocutxs (Any variety)—1, J. Watts, Birmingham. 2, J, Rogers, Hastings- 
he, J. Pares, Postford, Guildford; C. Howard & Nichols, Peckham; J. K. Fowler, 
Aylesbury; H. Dent, Cosham. c, J. Long, Plymouth; H. Dent. 

BRAuMAS.—Dark.—l, H. Dent. 2, J. Watts. he, F. James, Peckham; H. 
Dent. c, Rey. J. Ellis. Light.—1 and Cup, J. R. Rodbard, Wrington. Bristol. 
2, F. Crook, Forest Hill. 3, H. M. Maynard, Holmewood, Ryde. whe, A. oO. 
Worthington, Burton-on-Trent. he, T. Turner; J. Pares (2); W- Masland, Mil- 
yerton; F. A.Dean, Moreton-on-Lugg; F. Crook. c, T. Turner. (The whole 
class commended). 

DorgmnGs.—1, J. Smith. 2, Lord Turnour, Shillinglee Park, Petworth- 
he, J. Bargeman, Dorking; J. Chesman, Ronnham, Southampton. 

SpanisH.—l, F. James, Peckham. 2, Howard & Nichols. he and c, Rev- 
M. Rice, Bramber. i 

ANDALUsIANS.—1, 8, and Cup, T. Moore, Landport. 2, W. Wildey, Cosham- 
he, E. Tonkins, St. Saviour’s, Jersey. wot 

Hawpurcus.—Gold-pencilled.—1, F. Pittis, jun., Newport, Isle of Wight- 
2; H. Pickles, jun.,Harby. /ic, H. Pickles, jun.; W. H. Tickner, Ipswich. | Silver- 
pencilled—i, J. King, Oxford. 2, H. Pickles, jun. he, H. Pickles, jun.; J. 
Barter. Gold and Silver-spangled.—i, H. Pickles, jun. (Silver). 2,H. M. May- 
nard. he, Mrs. Woodham, Romsey (Silver) (2); C. Windebank, Cosham; G. 
Potts (Silver). c, N. Barter, Plymouth (Silver). 

FRENCH VARIFTIES,—1 and Cup, W. Dring, Faversham (Houdans). 2; Rey. 
N. J. Ridley, Newbury (La Fléche). he, Rev. N. J. Ridley (Creve-Cceur); Hill 
and Co., Brighton (Houdans) (3). c, H. S. Fraser. Liphook. 

BanvTaws.—Game.—l and2, ¥. James. vic, P.H.Jones. he, J.Pares; G. E. 
H. Blliott, Ryde; J. W. Kellaway, Merston, Isle of Wight; C.J. Spary, Vent- 
nor; G. Potts; G. Mante, Chichester; W. B. Jeffries, Ipswich. c, Master J- 
Stevenson. Any variety except Game.—i, M. Leno, Markyate Street (Laced). 
2, H. M. Maynard (Black). hc, Lady S. Turnour, Shillinglee Park (Japanese); 
H. M. Maynard (Black); M. Leno (Laced): N. Barter, Plymouth (Gold-laced) > 
J. Watts (Japanese); G. I’. Hodson, North Petherton. 

Ducks.—Aylesbury and Rowen.—1i and 2, J. K. Fowler, ASlesbmr he, Mrs. 
S. J. Maberley; J. Pares; A. Belcher, Dorking. Any other Variety—l, F. 
Pittis, jun. (Hast Indian). 2, C. N. Baker, Chelsea (Carolina). ie, E. S. C. 
Gibson, Hxae) (Mandarins): c, E. S. C. Gibson (Carolina); J. M. Freeman, 
Lymington (Brazilian) (2). = 

GEESE (Any variety)—1, Mrs. Ford, Shirley (Toulouse). 2, Sir H.P.De Bathe, 
Chichester (Sebastopol). hc, J. Pares (Sebastopol); G. Pittis, Wymering. 

TursEys (Any variety).—1l, Mrs. J. Mahew, Great Baddow. 2, A- Belcher, 
Dorking. he, Mrs. M. E. Hadden, Landport (2). fs = 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—1, J. Hinton, Warminster (Silver Poland). 2, Rey. N-. 
J. Ridley. he, C. Maggs, Melksham (Black Hamburghs); J. Pares (Japanese 
Silkies); A. Cruttenoen, Haywards Heath (Golden); H. Pickles (Poland) (2); 
T. P. Edwards, Lyndhurst (White Crested Polands); P. H. Jones, Fulbam 
(Silver Polands); O. Nicholson (Ancong). c, S.J. Perry, jun. = 

SELuinc Crass—Cock or Cockerel.—l, H. Dowsett, Pleshey. 2, Rev. N. d. 
Ridley (Brahma). kc, C.F. Wilson, Totton (Silver-pencilled); G. Potts (Pile) > 
L. W. King (Spanish); T. P. Edwards (Poland); P. W. Jones (Dorking); J. q. 
Rodbard (Partridge Cochin); H. Baintun (Hondan); Howard & Nichols} 
W. Westcott, Landport. c,O. W. Hoare (Light Brahma). Hens or Pullets.— 
1, H. Dent, Cosham (Cochins). 2, Howard & Nichols. hc, Brown & Smith, 
Gosport; W. Hoare (Light Brahma); H. Pickles, jun. (Poland); Capt. A. Adney 
(Game); J. Howard, Cosham (Dorking); M. Leno (Light Brahma); G. Murray, 
Purbrook (Dorking); F. James (Spanish); H. S. Fraser, Headley, Liphook 
(Houdans); W. Westcott. c, Brown & Smith; H. M. Maynard; W- elder, 


Southsea (Game Bantams). 
Se (Any variety).—1, J. K. Fowler. 2and he, M. Leno (Golden and 
Bohemian). c,J. Payne, Landport (silver). 
Extra prize ior the greatest number of points in the Poultry classes.—Equal 
Mr. J. K. Fowler and Mx. F. James. 
PIGEONS. 
Pourers.—l, E. J. Dew, Weston-super-Mare. 2,P.H. Jones. /ic, H. Yardley, 


Birmingham. i 4 
BaREs.—1 and c, H.M. Maynard. 2, J.C. Ord, Pimlico. hc, H. Yardley. 
2,H.M. Maynard. vie, B.J. Dew. 


Tarniers.—l, H. Yardley. 
Dracoons.—l, W. A. Mitchell. 2, J. C, Ord. ie, P. H. Jones; W. B. Teget- 
meier, London. c¢, F. Graham, Birkenhead. 

TumBLERS.—1, E. J. Dew. 2.3. Ford, Monkwell Street, London. 

Fanvaits.—1 and 2, H. M. Maynard. q 

Any OTHER Varrery.—l, S. A. Wyllie, East Moulsey (Yellow Runts). 2, W. 
B. Tegetmeier. hic, P. H. Jones (ees paeb ae) H. Yardley. ¢, G.. 
H. Gregory (Turb H. M. Maynard; W..B. Tegetmeier. __ _ 

ERG q A, Wyllie (Yellow Priests). 2, Ww. B. Tegetmeier- 
he, H. M. Maynard (Barbs); J. C. Ord (Magpies); H. Yardley; J. Watts; Ww. 
Fielder; J. Ford, c, H. M. Maynard (Barbs); 8. A. Wyllie (Suabians); Ba 
Barnes (Trumpeters). 


o 5 
February 16, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


129 


Extra prize for the greatest number of points in the Pigeon classes.—H. M, 


Maynard. 
CAGE BIRDS. 

Norwicu.—Clear Yellow.—1, W.. Walters, Winchester. 2, Moore & Wynn, 
Northampton. vlc, Moore & Wynne; W. Walters; H. Apted, Broadwater. 
he, H. Apted. c, T. Wiltshire; H. Apted. Clear Buf’.—1, W. Walters. 
2, Moore & Wynn. vic, W. Walters; H. Apted. he, Moore & Wynn; H. 
Apted. Hvenly-marked or Yellow Variegated —1, Moore & Wynne. 2, H. Apted. 
vhe, W. Walters; H. Apted. he, W. Walters. c, T. Wiltshire; Moore and 
Wynn. Lvenly-marked or Buff Variegated.—1 and vhe, W. Walters. 2 and 
he, Moore & Wynn. _¢, H. Apted. 

BeEuGian.—Clear Yellow.—l, A. E. Smith, Gosport. 2, T. Moore, Fareham. 
whe, he, and ¢c, O. Nicholson. Clear Bujf—l, A. E. Smith. 2, W. Andrews. 
vhe, he, and c, O. Nicholson. ZHvenly-marked ov-Yellow Variegated—1 and 
2, O. Nicholson. Evenly-marked or Buf Variegated.—1 and 2, O. Nicholson. 

Lizarp.—Golden-spangled.—1, 2, and c, O. Nicholson. Silver-spangled.— 
land 2, O. Nicholson. 

GoLpFIncH MuLe.—Jonque.—2, W. L. Chapman, Northampton. 
2, Miss Dyer, Portsea. Extra 2, W. L. Chapman. 

ANY OTHER CANARY OR MULE.—1, W. Walters (Cinnamon). 2, T. Mann, 
Camberwell (London Fancy). vhc, W. Walters (Crested Norwich); H. Apted 

Cinnamon). 

BririsH Brrps (Any other variety).—l, W. Walters (Dove and Blackbird). 
2, O. Nicholson (Silver Starling). _ vhe, J. Jeans, Marchwood, Southampton 
(Piping Bullfinch); W. Sims (Starling); W. Sivyer, Portsea (Redpole). he, T. 
Wiltshire (Goldfinch). 

IETS for the greatest number of points in the Norwich Canary classes. 
—W. Walter. 

Extra prize for the greatest number of points in the Belgian and Lizard 
Canary classes.—O. Nicholson. 

Rapprrs.—Longest Lars.—l, C. Grayville, jun., Thorne. 2, C. King, St. John’s 
Wood. Black and White—1, W.Simmons. 2,G.Bainton. Blue and White.— 
1, J. Quick, St. John’s Wood. 2, G. Bainton. Tortoiseshell—i, C. Graville, 
Jun. 2,G.Bainton. Self-colow’—l, J. Quick. 2, R. Hall. Any other Variety. 
—1, A. Clayton, Eastfield, Ryde. 2, Withheld. fs 

Extra prize for the greatest number of points.—C. Graville, jun. 

Extra prize for the best Rabbit in the Show, C. Graville,jun. Grey doe, ears 
23% inches long, by 53 inches wide, eleyen months old. 

Pigeons: Mr. F. C, 


JupeEs.—Poultry: Mr. G. §. Sainsbury. 
Hsquilant, Brixton. Cage Birds: Mr. A. Willmore, London. Rabbits : 
Mr. E. Owen, London. 


Mealy.— 


WHITEHAVEN POULTRY SHOW. 


Tats was held on the Sth, 9th, and 10th inst., and proved a very 
successful Show, there being upwards of 500 entries. The following 
is the prize list :— 


Cocutn-Cuina.— White. — Cocks. —1 and 8, R. Smalley, Lancaster. 2, J 

Sichel, Timperley. hc, E. Fearon, Whitehaven (2); J. Weeks, Bootle. c, S° 
Sherwen, Whitehaven. Hens.—1 and Cup, J. Sichel. 2, E. Fearon. 8, G* 
Shrimpton, Leighton Buzzard. he, R. Smalley (2); J. Sichel; J. Weeks (2)' 
Buff or any other Colowr.—i, J. Cowman, Whitehaven. 2, Mrs. Wilkin, Bootle’ 
3, Gunson & Jefferson, Whitehaven, jc, J.Sichel; I. Leech, Rochdale. Hens: 
= and Cup, J.Sichel. 2, Mrs. Wilkin. 8, E. Fearon. hc, Gunson & Jefferson; 
T.H. Green, Belfast; E. Fearon; W. G. Mulligan, Belfast; J. Sichel. 
_ Branms Poorra.—Cocks.—l and Cup, J. H. Dawes, Moseley Hall, Birming- 
ham. 2,J. Cowman. 8, R. Brownlie, Kirkealdy. he, J. Sichel; E. Leech; J. 
Dove, Coniston. Hens.—l, J. Sichel. 2, T. Raines, Stirling. 8, EB. Leech. 
he, T. H. Green; J. Cowman (2). c, J. Watts, Hazlewell Hall, Birmingham. 

Dorxiwes.—Silver-Grey.—Cocks.—1, W. Jackson, Bolton-le-Sands. 2,Gunson 
and Jefferson. 3, Miss Borthwick, Maryport. Hens.—1, R. D. Holt, Orrest 
Head, 2, W. W. Ruttlidge. 8,1. Raines. hc, Mrs. Birkett, Workington ; W. 
W. Ruttlidge; R. Smalley. Dark.—Cocks.—1 and 3, Gunson & Jefferson. 2, J. 
Fox, St. Bees, he, J. White, Warlaby; S. H. Stott, Rochdale; Mrs. F. S. Ark- 
wright, Sutton Scarsdale; Gunson & Jefferson. Hens.—l and Cup, J. Stott, 
Healey. 2, W. W. Ruttlidge. 3, J. H. Wilson, St. Bees. hc, J. Robinson, Gar- 
stans; L. Patton, Taunton (2); Mrs. F.S. Arkwright. c, Gunson & Jefferson. 

SpanisH.—l and Cup, C. W. Brierley, Middleton, px '. Hudson, Ulverston. 
3, J. Watts. lc, W. Paterson, Langholm; H. Beldon, Goitstock; G. C. Wilson, 
Milnthorpe. 
ns FRENCH Fowx.—Cock.—1 and Cup, H. Beldon. 2, J. Sichel (Créve-Cceur). 
3, W. Boutcher, Notting Hill (Créve-Ceur). he, Mrs. W. F. Wharton, Barnard 
Castle (Houdan); W. R. Park, Melrose (Créve-Ceur); J. W. Will, Errol; J. 
KK. Fowler, Aylesbury. Hens or Pullets.—1, W. R. Park (Créve-Ceur). 2.J.K. 
Fowler. 3,3. Sichel (Houdans). he, J. Elgar, Osmanthorpe, Newark (Houdan$) 3 
R. Smalley (Créve-Ceeur); J. Sichel (Creve-Ceur); J. W. Will. 

GameE.—Black or Brown Red.—Cock.—1 and Cup, C. W. Brierley. 2, H. M. 
Julian, Hull. 3, S. Beighton, Farnsfield, Southwell (Black Red). [PoP eaon dss 
Wilson. c, T. Mason, Green Ayre, Lancaster. Cockerel—t, 8, & Cup, Master~ 
W. Fletcher (Black Red). 2, S. Beighton (Black Red). he, R. H. Campbell, 
Greenock (Brown Red); W. Hastwell, Whitehaven; J. W. Will. Any other 
Variety —Cock or Cockerel.—i, Master W. Fletcher, Stoneclough (Duckwing). 
2, H. M. Julian (Duckwing). 3, J. Sunderland, Halifax (Pile). he, EB. Woodburn, 
Ulverston; J. H. Wilson (Duckwing). Hen—1 and 2, GC. W. Brierley. 8, G.R. 
Smith, Scarborough. he, T. Mason. Pullet—1, 2, and Cup, C. W. Brierley. 
3, W. Grice, Bootle. h ce, W. Boulton, Dalton; Master W. Fletcher; J. Mashiter, 
Ulverston (2); J. W. Will. c, J. H. Wilson. 

Hamporeus. — Golden-spangled. —1 and Cup, H. Beldon. 2, J. Buckley, 
Taunton, Ashton-under-Lyne. 3, J. Rollinson. he, J. Rollinson; J. Ogden, 
Hollinwood; J. W. Will. Silwer-spangled.—1, 2, and he, Ashton & Booth, Mot- 
tram. 8, H. Beldon. Golden-pencilled.—l, W. R. Park. 2, H. Beldon. 3, C. 
Moore, Poulton-le-Fylde. he, J.W. Will. Silver-pencilied.—1 and 3, H. Pickles, 
jun., Earby. 2, W.M. Mann, Kendal. he, H. Beldon. 

GAME BantAms.—Blachk Reds.—Cock.—1, G. Hall, Kendal. 2,3. Mashiter. 8, B. 
Hudson, Ulverston. he, J. R. Robinson, Sunderland; H.H. Thompson, Sunder- 
land; J.T. Hudson. Hens or Pullets—1, G. Hall. 2,3. W. Morris, Rochdale. 3, Ge 
Toda, Sunderland. he, G. Hall; R, Brownlie. Any other variety except Black 
Reds.—1, 2, and Cup, H. J. Nicholson, Holborn Hill, Cumberland (Duckwing). 
3, W. Adams, Ipswich (Brown Red). he, J. Sichel (Piles); W. Scott, Sedburgh 
(Duckwing); J. W. Brockbank, Kirksanton (Duckwing): Bellingham & Gill, 
penrnley (ees nee D ee ae babe (Brown Red). 

ANTAMS.—1, M. Leno, Markyate Street. 2, Mrs, F.S. Arkwright. 38, Miss B. 

Parker. he, H. Beldon; J. Sichel; §. & R. Ashton, Mottram. e eras 

Ducxs.—Aylesbury.—l, E. Leech, Rochdale. 2, J.K. Fowler. 3, J. Robinson. 
he, BE. Fearon; Mrs. irkett; S.H. Stott; J.K. Fowler. Rowen—l and Cup. S. 
H. Stott. 2, Gunson & Jefferson. 8, W. G. Mulligan. lic, A. Dickinson, Dis- 
tington ; J. Thompson, Chocketford; E.G. Jones; W. Robinson. c, L. Patton ; 
J. Fox; J.K. Fowler. Black Hast Indian—1 and 2, §. Burn, Whitby. 3, Rev. 
W. Sergeantson, Acton Burnell. Any other Variety.—1, C. W. Brierley. 2. M. 
Leno (Mandarins). 3, H. B. Smith, Broughton (Shiels). he, S. & R. Ashton 
(Carolina); S. Burn (Mandarins); H. B. Smith (Mandarins and Carolina); 8. 
H. Stott; M. Leno (Carolina); J. Watts; T. Musgrave (Mallards). 

TuRKEYs (Any variety)—1, E. Leech. 2,8. Sherwen. he, W. Grice. 

Grursz (Any variety).—l, Rev. G. Hustler, Stillingfleet Vicarage. 
Stott (Toulouse). he, H. Leech. c,J. Logan. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY EXCEPT BaNnTAms. —1, H. Beldon. 
Whitby. 8, W. Harvey, Sheftield. 

SELLING CuAss.—l, R. D. Holt. 2, 


2, 5. 0. 


> 2, J. P. Fawcett, 
lic, M. Nicholls, Peel, Isleof Man; J. Watts. 
H. Beldon. 3,3, Cowman, 4, E. Fearon. 


5, R, Smalley. Jec, W. Cook, Hale, Carnforth (Buff Cochins); E. Fearon 
(White and Buff Cochins, and Black Spanish); H. Yardley; Gunson & Jeffer- 
son (2); H. Beldon; R. D. Holt (Dorkings) (2); J. H. Wilson (White Cochins 
and Game); E. G. Jones (Rouen Ducks); Mrs. Birkett (Buff Cochins): C. 
Me.Clellan (White Cochins); W. Boulton (Brown Red Game); J. Robinson; J. 
Cowman (Brahmas) . Mason (Game); J. Wilson (Black Red Game); J. 
Watts; J. W. Will; Mrs. F. S, Arkwright (Black Red Game). 
PIGEONS. 

CaRRIERS.—1, J. & W. Towerson, Egremont. 2, E. Horner, Harewood. he, H. 
Yardley ; E. Horner; J. & W. Towerson. 

PovurEers.—1 and Cup for best pen of Pigeons, J. & W. Towerson. 2, E. 
Horner. hc, E. Horner; G. Sturgess, Leicester ; W. Harvey. 

Tumpiers.—dAlmond.—l, J. Ford, Monkwell Street, London. 2, W. Harvey. 
he, H. Yardley; E. Horner (2); J. Ford; J.& W. Towerson. Any other Variety. 
—1, J. Fielding, jun., Rochdale. 2, J. Ford. he, G. Sturgess (2). 

Jaconins.—1, J. © W. Towerson. 2, W. G. Easten. Hull. 2e, T. W. Kilburn, 
Bishop Auckland; J. W. Edge, Birmingham; J. & W. Towerson. 

TRUMPETERS.—1 and 2, E. Horner. ic, H. Beldon. 

Bargs.—l and _c, UB. Yardley. 2, J. & W. Towerson. he, W. Jackson; J. 
Fielding, jun.; G. Goore; J. & W. Towerson. 

Torsits.—l, W.G.EHasten. 2.J.& W.Towerson. he, H. Yardley; E. Horner. 

Owxs.—1l, H. Beldon. 2,J.&W. Towerson. he, J. Armstrong, Workington ; 
T. W. Kilburn; J. & W. Towerson. 

Fanrains.—l, B. Horner. 2,H.Beldon. he, H. Yardley; J. W. Edge. 

Dracoons.—l, H. Beldon. 2, J. W. Edge. he, W. H. Mitchell, Moseley, 
Birmingham; J. Watts; G. South, New Bond Street, London; W. Harvey. 

Any OTHER.VARIETY.—l, H. Beldon. 2, W. Jackson. he, H. Yardley; T. W. 
Kilburn; J. Watts ;7J. Fielding, jun.; W. Harvey? 

SELLING CuAss.—l, J. W. Towerson. 2, W. R. & H. O.Blenkinsop. he, J. 
and W. Towerson; Mrs. F. 8. Arkwright (Antwerp and Dragoons); J. W. Edge. 
¢c, H. Beldon. sie 

Cup for the most successful exhibitor.—Messrs. J. & W. Towerson. 


CanantEs.—Belgian (Yellow).—1, J. N. Harrison, Belper. 2andc¢, W. Robin- 
son, Workington. he, D. Tweedie, Whitehaven. (Buff)—1, J. N. Harrison. 
2, P. Watson, Whitehaven. he, S. Sheryen. Mules (Buff)—l, R. Hawman, 
Middlesbrough. 2, R. Carr, Carlisle. he, J. Harkness, Whitehaven. Piebald 
(Yellow or Buff).—1, J. N. Harvison. 2, Stevens & Burton, Middlesbrough, 
he, R. Carr. ¢e, R. Hawman. Lizards (Gold or Silver-spangled).—l, R. Haw- 
Ian. 2andc, Stevens & Burton. he, J. N. Harrison. 


JupeEs.—Poultry: Mr. R. Teebay, Fulwood, Preston; Pigeons, 
Ducks, Geese, and Turkeys: Mr. J. Dixon, North Park, Bradford ; 
Canaries: Mr. A. Benson, Whitehaven. 


CRYSTAL PALACE BIRD SHOW. 


For the information of those readers of the Journal who may be 
looking for some report of the Show which is now open and will re- 
main so till. Friday, I pen a few hasty notes while waiting for the. 
train, promising to supplement them at length next week. Taking the 
Show as a whole, it is one of great merit. The Clear Jonques and 
Mealies are in many instances, and notably so in the case of the win- 
ning birds, of extraordinary merit. Mr. Walter is once more at the 
top of the tree in Jonques with a splendid bird, and Mr. Mackley 
second with a remarkable specimen, which ought to have been dis- 
qualified, being Ticked, and consequently entered in a wrong class. 
The third is a fair bird, but I think I could name more than one 
which I prefer. Among the unmentioned division stands Mr. Judd 
with six excellent Jonques. 

The Clear Buffs constitute a superior class, the first four being rare 
birds, full of colour and bloom. Myr. Mackley shows two which are 
equal third, and one of them is about as good as anything in the class. 
Each was soon claimed at the low price of £1. No. 73 is a good bird, 
and so are 68, 97, and 81. 

In the Eyenly-marked Jonques Mr. Hawman’s bird stands unap- 
proached. Adams & Athersuch are second with a remarkably neat 
hen, and one of the equal thirds also is a hen, the third honour being 
shared by Moore & Wynn and Smith & Preen, a Coventry firm. 
Nos. 114, 118, and 120 well merit their cards. Walter, Adams & Co., 
and Moore & Wynn share the honours in the Eyen-marked Buffs with 
very fine birds in close company. , 

The Ticked Belgians are, many of them, superb. Nos. 175 (Mack- 
ley), 184 (Moore & Wynn), and 177 (Bemrose & Orme), among the 
Jonques are enough to make anyone’s mouth water and create a long- 
ing for that jonque mineral, of which a liberal supply is required to 
enable one to become their purchaser. 

In Ticked Mealies Mr. Havers is first with 230, all quality ; but it 
is a very near thing between it and the second (No. 242, Walter). 
Messrs. Toon & Cleaver are third with a very rich bird, and all the 
mentioned specimens are meritorious. 

The crests are a great improvement on last year, and the Buffs well 
deserve the comment of the Judges, which is appended to the return 
list, ‘A splendid class." There are some magnificent birds among 
them. No. 283, first Buff (Mackley), is full of good Norwich points, 
and with but few exceptions most of the birds are well worth a careful 
inspection.—W. A. BLAKsToN. 


Owrxe to the excessive dryness of last spring great difficulty was 
experienced in rearing young birds, added to which the importations 
from Germany and France have, during the last six months, entirely 
ceased, and fears were entertained as to the success of a bird Show 
under such disadvantages; but it is evident that no apprehensions of 
the kind need have been entertained. The entries are nearly if not 
quite as numerous as.on former occasions, while the quality, for which 
the show of last year was so famous, is maintained in the present 
instance. Canaries are always strong, and especially the Norwich 
birds. Next come the Belgians; although there may be many points of 
interest about them which render them attractive to exhibitors, yet they 
cannot either asto appearance or symmetry of form be compared to the 
Norwich classes. Mulesare alwaysgood, andso are the London Fancy. 


130 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTSAGH GARDENER. 


{ February 16, i871. 


The following are the number of birds exhibited :— 


No. of No. of 

birds. birds, 
Norwich Classes ........ 827 Brought forward...... 629 
- Belgians...... _ 35 Aviaries (14)... 5 84 
London Fancy.. 32 British Birds... 147 
Other Classes - 148 Foreign Birds ... A £9 
NDT GS eslsistcleisierereistele dos00 87 Miscellaneous ......... ee 87: 
Carried forward 629 PR OLPMGelejarsieisrsvelevclsteistelete 1146 


Norwiow (Clear Yellow).—1, W. Walter, Winchester. 
wich. 8, W. Cooke, Norwich. vhc, R. Mackley; T. Irons, Northampton; 
Cockle & Watson; W. Walter. hc, Bemrose & Orme, Derby; S. Bunting, 
Derby; Smith & Freen; T. Fenn, Ipswich; Adams & Athersuch, Spon End, 
Coventry. c,R. Mackley (5); S. Bunting; Moore & Wynn, Northampton (2); 
W. Havers, Norwich ; J. Judd, Newington Butts (2); T. Mann, Camberwell. 

Norwicu (Clear Buff).—1, Toon & Cleaver, Kettering. 2, W. Walter. Equal 3, 
R. Mackley (2). vhe, Bemrose & Orme; S. Bunting; W. Walter. hc, Moore 
and Wynn; Bexson & Bennett, Derby; Adams & Athersuch; W. Cooke; J. 
Doel, Stonehouse, Devon. c, Bemrose & Orme (2); Moore & Wynn; Adams 
and Athersuch (2). 

Norwich (Marked or Variegated Yellow).—1, R. Hawman. Middlesbrough. 
2, Adams & Athersuch. Equal 3, Moore & Wynn; Smith & Preen. vihec,S. 
Bunting ; Smith & Preen; J. Judd. hc, W. Havers; Bexson & Bennett. ¢,J.G. 
Stephenson, Bishop’s Cleave, Cheltenham; T. Irons; Moore & Wynn; W. 
Havers; Bexson & Bennett; T. Fenn. 

Norwicu (Marked or Variegated Buff).—1l, W. Walter. 2,Adams & Ather- 
such. 8,Moore & Wynn. vhc, R. Mackley; Moore & Wynn (8); W. Walter. 
he, R. Mackley ; Bemrose & Orme; S. Bunting; Bexson & Bennett; T. Fenn; 
Sac c, G. Gayton, Northampton; T. Fenn; J. Judd; J. Marshall, Derby; 

- Cooke. 

Norwicu (Ticked or Unevenly Marked Yellow).—l, R. Mackley. 2, Moore 
and Wynn. 3, Bemrose & Orme. vhc, Smith & Preen; Cockle & Watson; W. 
Walter; T. Mann. he, R. Mackley; S. Bunting; Smith & Preen; Bexson and 
Bennett ; T. Fenn; T, Newmarch, Crystal Palace. c, R. Mackley; W. Walter; 
P. Flexney, London; E. W. Lulham (2). 

Norwicu (Ticked or Unevenly Marked Buff)—1l, W. Havers. 2, W. Walter. 
8, Toon & Cleaver. vhc, Bemrose & Orme; Moore & Wynn; W. Walter; 
Adams & Athersnch. he, R. Mackley (8); Bemrose & Orme; Cockle & Watson, 
Terrington St. John; Bexson & Bennett; W. Walter. c, 5. Bunting; Moore 
and Wynn; W. Havers; T. Newmarch; E. W. Lulhar, Brighton. 

Norwicu (Crested Yellow).—l, T. Fenn. 2, Toon & Cleaver. 3, Bemrose and 
Orme. vhc, T. Irons (2); Moore & Wynn; R. Hawman. hc, H. Apted, Worth- 
ing; Moore & Wynn (2); T. Fenn; G. Cox, Northampton. c, Bexson and 
Bennett; T. Fenn; W. Walter; J. Tarr, London. ; 

whe, R. 


2, R. Mackley, Nor. 


Norwicu (Crested Buff).—l, R. Mackley. 2and 8, Moore & Wynn. 
Mackley ; Moore & Wynn (2): W. Havers; H. N. Fosbrooke, Hatfield, Doncas- 
ter. he, Moore & Wynn; Smith & Preen; Bexson & Bennett. c, R. Mackley; 
H. Apted: Bexson & Bennett; J. Judd; W. Walter; J. ‘Goode, Leicester. 

BELGIAN (Clear Yellow).—l, J. N. Harrison, Belper. 2, J. Poole, Sutton-in- 
Ashfield. 8,J. Doel. vhc, C. Carver, Lamport; J. Close, Derby; J. Doel. he, 
W. Walter. 

Beteryn (Clear Buff).—1, J. Doel. 2, J. Poole. 8. C. Carver, 
wood, Nottingham; W. Walter. hc, W. Harley; J. Doel 

BELGIAN (Variegated or Ticked Yellow).—1 and2 J. Doel. 

BELGiAN (Variegated or Ticked Buft).—l. Withheld. 2, W. Harley. 

Lonxpon Fancy (Jonque).—l and he, W. Brodrick, 2,8, vhc, and he, J. Waller. 
¢, T. Clark, Sutton, Surrey. 

EON DONEENCY (Mealy).—1, vhe, and he, J. Waller. 2 and 8, W. Brodrick. 
c, T. Clark. 

LizarpD (Golden-spangled).—l, H. Ashton, Polefield Hall, Prestwich. 2, J. 
Judd. 8, T. W. W. Fairbrass, Canterbury. vhe, R. Mackley; G. Tuckwood (2). 
he, G. Harrison; J. Poole; T. W. W. Fairbrass; W. Dann, Nottingham; T. 
Clark. c, J.N. Harrison; J. Poole; T, W. W. Fairbrass; T. Clark. 

Lizarp (Sree Daou led ie H. Ashton. 2,R.Mackley. 3,S. Bunting. vhe, 
J. Poole; Adams & Athersuch; H. Ashton. he,J. N. Harrison; G. Harrison. 
c, G. Harrison. 

CINNAMON ‘Jonque).—l, T. Irons. 2,8. Tomes, Northampton. vhe, G. Gay- 
ton, Northampton; H. J. Ims, Bloomsbury; S$. Tomes. hc, T. Irons; J. 
Spence, New Hendon, Sunderland; C. W. Hooke, London; Moore & Wynn" 
c, S. Bunting; T. Irons. 

Crxnamon (Buff)—l, J. Waller, London. 2, W.Gamble. whe, T.Irons: H. 
eos Atle Gamble. hc, Moore & Wynn (2). c, T. Irons; W. Walter (2); J. H. 

adland. 

Crynamon (Marked or Variegated).—l, Bemrose © Orme. 2, S. Tomes. vhe, 
H. Apted. hc, Moore & Wynn; J. H. Hadland, Wallington. c, P. Rawnsley, 
Ledget Green, Bradford ; H. Apted; Moore & Wynn. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—l, H. Ashton (Manchester Coppy). 2, E. Stansfield, 
Bradford. 3, J. Baxter, Newcastle (Glasgow Fancy). viic, J. Judd(Manchester 
Crested Coppy and Manchester Goppy). hc, P. Rawnsley; Moore & Wynn (2) 
(Crested Cinnamon); R. Hawman (Yorkshire). c, T. Newmarch. 

GOLDFINCH MULE (Yellow).—1, J. Doel. 

GOLDFINCH MULE (Buff)—1l,H. Ashton. 2 and he, J. Doel. 

GOLDFINCH MULE (Variegated Yellow)—1, H. Ashton. 2 and 3, J. Doel. 
vhe, W. B. Bailey, Purfleet; H. Ash‘on (2); J. Doel. he, H. J. Ims. 

GoLpFinc# MOLE (Variegated Buff).—1, Fairclough & Howe, Middlesbrough. 
2, J. Doel. 3, J. Baxter. vhc, H. J. Ims; W. B. Bailey; J. Doel (8). he, S. 
Bunting; H.J.Ims; H. Ashton. c, Rev. V. Ward, Hythe; H. J. Ims. 

GoLDFINcCE MULE (Dark Jonque).—l, E. Stansfield. 2, R. Hawman. vie, S. 
Bunting; Moore & Wynn (3). he,J. Cooper, Penge. c, T, Willsher, Chichester; 
T. E. Fosbrooke, Carlton Hills, Leeds; W. B. Bailey. 

GouprincH Muxz (Dark Mealy).—l, W. L. Chapman. 2, W. Smith. ihe, E. 
Stansfield; J. Cooper; W. Dann, Nottingham. 

Linnet MuLe.—1 and vie, J. Spence. 2, H. Ashton. c, W.Few, Forest Hill. 

Moutzs (Any other variety)—1, W. Yeoman, Leeds (Bullfinch and Canary 
Mule). 2, E. Stansfield (Bullfinch and Goldfinch Mule). 8, H. Ashton (Linnet 
and Bullfinch Mule). vhc, E. Stansfield (Bullfinch and Goldfinch Mule); T. 
Trons (Black and White Goldfinch Mule); J. F. Cookson, Preston (Goldfinch 
and Greenfinch Mule); W. Verner, Brighton (Linnet and Bullfinch Mule); H. 
ORR (Goldfinch and Bullfinch Mule). c, G. Locke (Linnet and Goldfinch 

e). 

Norwiox (Cage of Six, irrespective of Colour).—1, 2, and 8, W. Walter, vhc, 
Moore & Wynn; T. Fenn; W. Cooke. 

BEGIN (Cage of Six, irrespective of Colour).—l, Withheld. 2, C. Curver. 
pees (Cage of Six, irrespective of Colour)—1l, H. Ashton. 2, Clark and 

ooke, 

GOLDFINCH MULES (Cage of Six)—1l, J. Doel. 2, H. Ashton. 8, E. Stans- 
field. vhe,J. Doel. hc, H. J. Ims. 

MiscELLaNnzous.—Prize, J. Baxter (Black Goldfinch Mule). 


F BRITISH BIRDS. 

Buiurincu.— Prize, R. Mackley. he, A. Webster, jun., Kirkstall, Leeds ; 
J. Judd. c, Moore & Wynn; W. Walter; T. Willsher. 

Gouprinco.—Prize, J. Doel. vhc, Moore & Wynn. ihe, G. Cox; J. Doel. 
c, Fairclough & Howe; J. Spence. 

Linner.—Prize, J. Baxter. hce,H. Green. ¢,G. T. Harrison; Fairclough and 
Howe; J. Baxter. . 

SryLarK.—Prize and he, J. S. Benton, Rochester. c, J. Judd. 

Wooprark —Prize, W. Walter. 

Rosin.—Prize, G. Cox. e, W. J. Walling, London. 


che, G. Tuck- 


BLACKBIRD.—Prize, Miss M. A. Robinson, Sydenham. ie, J. Judd. c, W. 
Walter. 

Sone TurusH.—Prize, J. S. Benton. c, J. W. 
Smyth, London. 

STARLING.—Prize, J. Judd. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY OF BrITISH Bri‘ Ds.—Prize, T. Newmarch (Mealy Bull- 
finch). Prize, W. Walter (Dove-coloured Blackbird). Prize, G. Cox (Yellow- 
hammer). Prize, J. W.Gessey(Chaffinch). c,A. Webster, jun. (Bramblefinch); 
H. Ashton (Cinnamon Goldfinch). 


BIRDS OF PASSAGE AND MIGRATORY BIRDS. 
Buackcar.—Prize and he, A, Rettich, Peckham. 
SISKIN OR ABERDEVINE.—Prize, R. Mackley. he, J. Baxter; T. Willsher. 
he, W. Walter (Tree Sparrow). 


c, J. Judd. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—Prize withheld. 

FOREIGN BIRDS. 

Cockatoo (Lemon or Orange-crested).—1 and 2, M. George, London. 

Cockatoo (Leadbeater or Rose-breasted).—1, Mrs. Astley, Prince’s Risborough. 
2,T.Newmarch. vhe, W. B. Bailey ; J. Judd. ; 

Cockatoo (Any other variety).—Prize, W. B. Bailey (Slender-billed). 

Parrots (Grey)—l, J. G. Wingrove, Purfleet. 2, H. Webster, London. 
he, Mrs. Ramsay, Brixton. c, J. Judd. 

Parrots (Green or any other variety of large, except Grey)—l, J. Juda 
(Green Parrot). Equal 2, W.B. Bailey. Equal 2, and 8, T. Newmarch (Bulla 
Bulla and Mealy Rosejla). vhc, H. Jenner, Camberwell (Green Parros); 
Ww. a Rauey (Bulla Bulla and Reck Peblar). kc, J. Battershill, London 
Rosella). 

‘ Love Brros.—Prize, W. B. Bailey. vhe, W. Walter. he, J. Judd. 
PaRaKEETs (Australian Grass).—Prize and vie, J. Judd. he, T. Newmarch. 
PaRAKEETS (Ring-necked or Bengal).- Prize, T. Newmarch. vhe, T. New- 

march; P. L. Heisch, Chelsea. ¢, W. Underwood. i 
SMALL PARROTS OR PaRakEETS (Any other yarlety)-— Prize, W. B. Bailey 

(Blue Mountain Lorykeet). he, J. Judd (Turquoisenes). 

CocKETEALS —Prize, T. Newmarch. vhc,J.Judd. kc, W. Walter. 

Sparrows.—Diamond.—Prize, W. B. Baily. vic,T. Newmarch. /e,J.Jadd. 
ce, T. Newmarch. Java.—Prize, J. Judd. : 

ANY VARIETY OF Wax Bitts.—Prize, J. Judd. vhe, W. B. Bailey. 

CARDINAL.—Prize, W. B. Bailey. c, E. Sweeting, Sydenham. 3 

ANY OTHER VARIETY OF FOREIGN Brrpds.—l, T. Newmarch (Java Mina). 2, W. 
Walter (Madagascar). 8, J, Doel (Saffron Finch). Extra, W. B. Bailey (Col- 
lection of Foreign Birds). vhc, W. B. Bailey (Yellow Weavers); T. Newmarch 
(Nonpareil); C. A. Stein (Bronze Manvakins). hc, W. B. Bailey (2) (Parson 
Finch and Cellection of Foreign Waxbills); W. Walter (Saffron Finch). 


JupeEs.— Canaries: Mr. Barnesby, Mr. Moore, and Mr. Wilmore- 
British and Foreign Birds: My. John Jenner Weir, F.L.S., and 
Mr. Harrison Weir, F.R.H.S., assisted by Mr. F. W. Wilson. 


he, A. Raven, Norwood. 


PRIZE LISTS FOR CARRIER PIGEONS. 


I wave no doubt committees often class Carriers in pairs, 
believing that they cannot afford to give prizes for two classes > 
this is a great mistake—-two classes pay better than one, for the 
very reason that Colonel Hassard gives—viz., ‘‘ that, as a rule, 
no fancier breeds from two Blacks or two Duns,’’ consequently 
they are very seldom paired fit forexhibition. It is sometimes 
very difficult to mate Carriers as you wish them to breed (I 
think they are the worst of any Pigeons in this respect), and 
fanciers cannot afford to undo what kas given them so much 
trouble, and in addition risk a battle with two valuable birds 
that carry such formidable weapons as their beaks. Last sum- 
mer a large cock I had came in contact with a very promising 
young hen that was strange to him, and he scalped her as 
cleanly as any American Indian could have done, and had f 
not entered the loft in time would have destroyed her eyes; as 
it was, she could not see with one eye for weeks afterwards. 

In consequence of these difficulties all shows where Carriers 
are classed in pairs suffer both in quantity and quality; and 
more especially after this date, when the birds are mated for 
breeding they will scarcely get a class worth notice, except one- 
or two pens belonging to persons who buy birds to exhibit and 
not to breed. 

As facts are convincing, I give the results of Carrier entries 
at a few shows held during the past season. 


No. of Entry Fees. Prizes given, 
£8. d. £8 d 
Oakham ...... shown in pairs ... (ales W esses 110 0 
Ipswich . D yr 000 LO ee 1236 
Leeds ...... ” _ Da Bo09 SLO Oe 110 0 
Long Sutton.. single birds .... -814 0. -8 5 6 
Lowestoft .... ” ” : Boor ee Wisoeeos Sh Ww) 


Now, as the great desire is to get a good show as well as one 
that will meet expenses, it is evident that single birds answer 
the two purposes best, for while Oakham, Ipswich, and Leeds 
had only entries numbering respectively four, nine, and ‘ten, 
Long Sutton and Lowestoft obtained fifty-eight and forty-one 
entries, and the entry fees pay the prize money—an important 
point for committees to study. A class for young Carriers pays 
best of all. London, Long Sutton, and Lowestoft offered prizes 
for young Carriers at their last shows, and received good entries- 
—tlLondon thirty pens, Long Sutton twenty-two, and Lowestoft 
fourteen. Ipswich also, although the birds were shown in 
pairs, was confined to birds of 1870, and it shows a better 
result financially than either Oakham or Leeds. 

I believe Carrier-fanciers are increasing, and I think I sm. 
not wrong when I say there are more good birds in the king- 
dom than eyer, and if committees will only properly arrange 
their Carrier classes by giving prizes for cocks and hens sepa~ 
rately, and a class for birds under one year (single bird, either 


February 16, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


131 


cock or hen), they will have good birds, and in such numbers 
as will pay them.—L. Wren, Lowestoft. 


IS THE RABBIT FANCY ON THE DECLINE? 


Mr. Gooprna’s able reply goes to strengthen my remarks as to 
the great scarcity of Lop-ears*owing to their being so difficult to 
breed, and on account of their greater value they ought to occupy the 
front rank in a Rabbit show. The very reason that we had so many 
entries of fancy Rabbits at York was their being so common, so easily 
bred, and of so little yalue. The pair of Angoras that won the first 
honours at the York Show belonged to two poor lads who stand in our 
market with a few Pigeons and common Rabbits. The forty-five Lop- 
eared Rabbits entered at our show belong to thirty good Rabbit fanciers 
whose names are household words amongst us; but out of the forty- 
five fancy Rabbits entered, there were not a dozen good fanciers’ names, 
the majority belonging to lads whose names are unknown amongst the 
fancy. The fancy-Rabbit men are able to make a dozen or more 
entries in a show, for such Rabbits are so easily procured and breed 
so fast that their owners are able to enter largely ; but the Lop-eared 
fanciers have to be content by entering from three to six or more, 
generally one. There is no comparison between the two in value. I 
had at one time ten Rabbits, which I valued at £100, and I could 
have sold them for that sum, and I very much question if there is a 
fancy variety dealer in the country who has a stock to amount to any- 
thing near that sum, and who can count his stock by from forty to sixty. 

I am of opinion that, taking the country throughont, the fanciers of 
Rabbits are on the decline. I include fanciers of all varieties. I 
should delight to see the day when Rabbits were placed on the same 
footing as the other fancies which compose our shows. It cannot but 
be admitted that at present, with committees, Rabbits are either left 
out altogether or very meagrely represented. Can we expect, so long 
as this neglect continues, that the fanciers of R.bbits will increase ? 

The question, then, arises, How are Rabbits to be raised to an equal 
positidn with poultry and Pigeons? I think that it can only be done 
by fanciers sinking all differences and jealousies, and uniting into an 
association that will recommend the fancy to the public at large, and 
to committees of poultry shows in particular. Since throwing out 
a hint about the formation of a United Kingdom Rabbit Club, I have 
had letters from many influential fanciers wishing such a Club to be 
formed and carried out. My idea is for the Club to be formed upon 
the following basis— 

That it be composed of Rabbit fanciers, to become members by sub- 
scribing 1s. annually. That a city or town be chosen as the head 
quarters of the Club. That a committee be chosen out of every town 
at the rate of one committeeman to every four members. That an 
unpaid secretary be appointed to do the work well for the love of the 
fancy. That the secretary keep a register not only of members, but 
of every known fancier in the kingdom. That the members keep the 
secretary well supplied with information—anything that is interesting 
to the fanciers. That the secretary correspond with every poultry- 
show secretary prior to the schedule being issued, to suggest classes, 
and, where no Rabbits have been exhibited, to use his influence to 
have such classes established ; also to keep up a continual correspond- 
ence with secretaries of local clubs. The secretary to be a well-known 
sancier, one to whom any new beginner can apply for information and 
advice as to the management of Rabbits. 

I would expend any surplus funds by holding a “grand Rabbit 
show” successively in different towns. 

By the formation of such a Club, if it were well worked, I believe 
the fancy would increase and revive, also a tone would be given to it 
which it does not at present possess. If this meets the approval of 
all fanciers I am willing to set the Club going, and when established 
the committee can appoint a secretary.—M. Mnurncroy, York. 


EXAMINING STOCKS. 


THE period is approaching when scientific apiarians will be 
taking advantage of a fine day for the purpose of inspecting 
their hives, and ascertaining how they have fared during the 
iate protracted frost, which, with only one short intermission, 
extended over seven weeks. Some that were weak and not well 
supplied with stores will be found to have succumbed to the 
severity of the season; others that were strong and well pro- 
visioned, and prepared for winter’s storms, will be seen to have 
Sustained little or no injury. We should profit by experience 
—our very errors are good teachers—and when we find anything 
in our practice that has been faulty and followed by evil con- 
Sequences, our wisdom is not to repeat our mistakes. 

The desire to know the condition of our hives is liable to be 
gratified at sothe expense when proper precautions are not 
taken, as I Jearned to my cost nearly twelye months ago. About 
the beginning of March the weather happened to be cold and 
ungenial, but the 16th was calm; and although no bees were 
going abroad I concluded it would be quite safe to make an 
examination of one of my stocks, and that, as the temperature 
was over 40°, no harm could eome to the brood from a short 


exposure of the frames in the open air. This conviction, as 
the result showed, was well founded, but it did not occur to me 
that the carrying out of my intended inspection might be the 
occasion of serious loss to an adjoining stock not more than 
3 feet removed—a distance, by the way, far too small for the 
separation of hives, seeing they ought to be placed as far apart 
as circumstances will permit. Without, therefore, feeling any 
concern for the safety of my other stocks, I proceeded at once 
to remove the crown board and elevate the frames; but whilst 
holding them up to view a number of bees flew off and soared 
into the air. These fugitives, limagined, would return by their 
accustomed entrance to their homes, but instead of doing so 
they seemed bewildered, and several went directly into the hive 
located nearest their own. This showed me the propriety of 
suspending operations, so after adjusting the frames I shut up 
the hive ag quickly as possible. I need hardly say that I was 
apprehensive of consequences, but as the stock receiving the 
stray bees remained perfectly quiet throughout the remainder 
of the afternoon, my equanimity was not much disturbed. 

I felt, however, that an error had been committed, and next 
day, when reflecting on the matter, I thought it would be pru- 
dent to make an investigation, and see whether the stragglers 
which had entered a strange dwelling without opposition 
were keeping the peace in their new home. Accordingly, after 
employing precautions that had been neglected on the previous 
day, I commenced operations in the usual manner. A glance 
showed that all was not right. The inhabitants evidently were 
in a state of commotion, and that peculiar sound could be 
heard which is emitted whenever a queen is encased. I had 
not to search long before I discovered that my worst fears were 
realised, but the rescue intended on my part came too late. 
The queen was found ia the very heart of a compact ball of 
regicides and hopelessly injured, her body being already rigid 
and shrivelled. Her deliverance and death was almost simul- 
taneous. Now, if a friend having a spare queen had not come 
to my aid, this stock, losing its sovereign so early as the middle 
of March, must have been utterly ruined, and it is to put others 
on their guard that I am induced to state my experience. 

Bees, as is well known to obgervers, go out from their habi- 
tations after long confinement in.the same manner as from 
a young colony. They do not fly off directly, but make two or 
three circles, so as to enable them to become acquainted with 
the place they have left and ayoid making any mistake on their 
return ; consequently if they have been kept within-doors for 
some time they should haye an opportunity of reconnoitering 
their entrances before any attempt is made to open up their 
hives, otherwise, as in the case mentioned, they may take advan- 
tage of the situation and fly off from the frames, and ignorantly 
or stupidly enter the homes of their neighbours for their own. 
But when a stock is to be examined early in spring, all danger 
may be avoided by shutting up the entrances of hives which 
are near to it with perforated zinc, or, what is more convenient, 
wetting them with carbolic acid. In the one case stragglers 
cannot enter a wrong dwelling, and in the other they dare not. 
As the life of the queen is the most valuable life in the hive 
and essential to its existence, nothing should be done which is 
calculated to put her precious person in peril. Bee-masters, 
then, would do well to beware in early spring, and before the 
season is advanced, of a practice which is sometimes resorted 
to for the purpose of strengthening a weak colony—viz., that of 
putting it on the stance of a strongone. By making two stocks 
exchange their stances at an improper season both stocks may be 
lost through their queens being imprisoned and killed.—R.. §. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Booxs (H. Browne).—* Poultry Book for the Many,” for seven postage 
stamps. ‘'Poultry-keeper’s Manual,” free by post from our office for 
sixty-four postage stamps. 

Kerrpina Pounrry AS AN EmpLoymenr (H. H.).—Your question is a 
difficult one to answer. Few men can live by poultry alone. To keep it 
profitably requires a thorough knowledge of the subject, and, trifling 
though it appear, there is no royal road to it. All the theory may be 
learned from books, but much can be only gained from experience. In 
poultry, as in everything else, that must be bought. If your friend is 
about to breed and send the ordinary poultry, and fatten it only as it is 
fattened in Ireland, we should advise him to send it to Liverpool ; if he 
means to make it good enough for the London market, let him send it 
there. He must choose his season. In the hot weather much pains and 
care are required in fattening, fasting, killing, and packing to enable it to 
reach its destination in a fit state to realise a good price. Advantage 
must also be taken of the time of year. Poultry is most valuable in 
London in April, May, and June. Irish chickens well killed will make 
good prices during those months, but they must be chickens in age as 
well as name. It would be nec>ssary he should choose a good breed, as 
the oréinary Irish chickens with black, bine, and yelloy legs eat as much 


132 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 16, 1871. 


as better-bred birds, and do not make as much. We do not think he 
would be wise to give up a permanent employment for poultry-keeping, 
but we would advise him to begin with a few. He will gain experience, 
and will see how far it will answer. Noman in the ordinary trade can 
breed enough to live by it, he must collect from the surrounding country. 
He will have to buy them in lean and to fatten them. This renders it 
necessary to keep a horse and cart, and a cow. Good poultry cannot be 
made without milk. If your friend could get into relation with some man 
at the nearest seaport and sell to him, it would probably be the best thing 
he can do, as it will reduce his venture to a certainty. We believe 
poultry will be found a valuable adjunct ; but knowing as much as we do 
on the subject, we do not advise anyone to give up a permanent employ- 
ment to take to poultry. 


SILVER-SPANGLED HamMBURGHS’ ComBs (C. M. M.).—It is most difficult 
to breed prize cocks and hens from the same stock. It generally takes 
two yards to doit. The hollows in the combs are serious defects, and 
would disqualify from a first prize with any really first-rate judge. We 
would not breed from a cock with such a defect. 


BREEDING Brack HAMBuRGHS (Baron),—They are bred in all the ways 
you mention. We like a Spanish hen and a dark Yorkshire black-breasted 
Golden-spangled Hamburgh cock. In whatever way you breed them, 
you have to breed out one point and increase another afterwards. 


CROOKED-BREASTED Cock (J. S. Z.).—You should tell us the breed of 
your bird. In a Game cock we would not suffer a deviation from the 
straight line in the breastbone. In birds of weight we should not be so 
particular, but if we had a perfectly straight-breasted one we would 
discard the crooked were it ever so trifling. 

Fowts For Layine (4 Subscriber).—Créve-Ceur, Houdan, or Spanish ; 
we think the first. 

BREED OF HEN (G. FE. 4.).—We have little doubt that the hen in ques- 
tion isa Créve-C@ur. Your description tallies with that of the breed. 
Rub the bare place on the neck with compound sulphur ointment, 


SILVER-PENCILLED Hampurcus (A Subscriber).—There are two pencil- 
lings to be ayoided; one so faint as to be indistinct, the other so very 
dark and pervading, that it forms blotches; this is called mossy. Ham- 
burghs should not be thick and squat, but rather taper in shape and form. 
The comb should be a well-defined double comb with a pike at the back 
turving upwards. It should be full.of points, have no hollow in the 
centre, and be fixed firmly on the head, inclining to neither side. No 
other comb is admissible. A Guinea Fowl has no comb, it has a knob, 
Choose the birds that are nearest to our description. 


Fowxs Lostnc Heap AnD Neck Fratuers (Ff. T., Hxon).—It is pro- 
bable your fowls peck each other’s feathers. Rnb the bare spots with 
compound sulphur ointment. It is probable as the weather changes, if 
your fowls have a grass run, they will discontinue the practice. If they 
have not, you must supply them with sods of growing grass cut with 
plenty of mould, and with green stuff of some kind, Generally when 
fowls eat each other’s feathers, it is because they lack something neces- 
sary to their well-being, and feathers are a substitute. 


HEN DRoppine HER Eaes (C. M. S.).—The hen drops her eggs because 
she is out of condition. You can prevent her dropping them by remoying 
the perches, or you can save the eggs by putting hay or sawdust under 
the perches. You do not oyerfeed, but we advise you to substitute barley- 
meal for barley, and whole maize for ground. We do not think you have 
any right to complain of the laying. From three hens in fifteen days you 
have twenty-two eggs in very bad weather; each hen laying every al- 
ternate day would produce the number, and that is an excellent average. 
If you were to add those dropped from the perch, and thereby lost, we 
believe you have done better than your neighbours. 


Harpiness or HamBureus (Henricus).—We believe the Golden Ham- 
burgh of both varieties to be hardier than the Silver, and the Spangled 
harden than the Pencilled. Birds should not be sent out in a deplorable 
state. 


SHootina Stray Fowrs (Ridiculus Mus)—Your neighbour will act 
illegally if he shoots your fowls which invade his garden, but he may 
sue you in the County Court for the trespass. 


SwINDLERS (G. G.).—The parties you name at Walham may be swind- 
lers, and we will communicate with the police. Buyers and sellers of 
poultry need never be swindled if they would adopt the caution we have 
so frequently urged. 


Portsmoura SHow (W. 7. S.).—The Secretary ought to return your 
money if he did not send you a gatalogue. The post office may be to 
blame. The Judge was competent, andno one can say fairly “ My birds 
ought to haye won,” unless he first sees those with which they competed. 


WRrvy-TAILED GAME Coox (Brown Red)—Do not breed from him if a 
natural deformity. It is hereditary. 


PIGEON NoT EATING AND INJURED BY A SHor (H. Prince).—If there is 
any life in your bird it would eat hempseed, which would do it good. 
Most probably, as it cannot eat, not the wing only but the body of the 
bird was injured, and by this time itis dead. If alive, bathe with warm 
water first, and after the skin is well healed a very mild solution of iodine 
would strengthen it. 


Bre MANAGEMENT (7. H. T.).—Bee-Keeping for the Many,” which 
may be had by post direct from this office for fivestamps. If you erect a 
shed let it be a lean-to against a wall facing any aspect from south-east 
to south-west. It should be elosed at the ends, but either entirely open 
in front, or covered only with pheasant wire, with a good-sized semi- 
circular opening opposite the entrance to each hive, and should be of 
sufficient width to admit of all operations being conducted at the back. 
Ii you mean to go in for mere ordinary bee-keeping, use only the com- 
mon cottage hive; if for the depriving system, adopt flat-topped straw 
hives and supers, such as the ‘economic hive” which will be described 
next week, or Puyne’s improved cottage hive ; if for scientific and experi- 
metal bee-keeping, you had better go at once to the Woodbury frame- 

lye. 

DEATH OF A QuzEN (4 Novice).—The loss of a queen at this season is 
an irretrievable misfortune. Ths remaining bees should be at once ex- 
pelled by driving, and united to the nearest stock, whilst the contents of 
the hive may either be appropriated by the bee-keeper, or the whole care- 


tally, mut by intact in a safe place to be again tenanted by a swarm in due 
e . 


TRANSFERRING BEES (G. Cummings).—No attempt at transferring bees 
should be made until the hive becomes well populated—say towards the 
end of April, or during the month of May, according to ci1cumstances, 
and then the combs should be transferred ag well as the bees, or an 
enormous destruction of brood will be the consequence. It would be 
useless for any but a very advanced bee-master to attempt the transfer 
into a bar-hive, but with the aid of frames the task is far less difficult, 
and the mode of accomplishing it has been more than once fully de- 
scribed in these columus—as for example, in our number for July 32nd, 
1869. If, however, you are not able to r@fer to back numbers, and are 
desirous of attempting the operation, you can write again, and if de- 
sired we shall be happy to repeat the necessary instructions. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN, SQUARE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Darr. 9 A.M. In THE Day. 
$a ee |Shade Tem-) Radiation 5 
1871. A232 | Hygrome- | Direc-| Temp.| perature. |Temperature 4 
ets ter. tion(of! of USoil |= ae | Sa 
Feb. |24.34|/—————_| Wind. | at 1 ft In ; On 
Aa | Dry.| Wet. Max. Mi Sun. Grass 
deg. | deg. deg. deg.| deg. | In. 
We. 8 49.4 | 49.1 |W.S.W. 518 61.0 40.8 a 
Th. 9 43.2 | 40.2 N.W. 48.8 80.9 84.0 | 0.132 
Fri. 10 403 | 39.4 S.E. 44.3 818 | 314 | 0.172 
Sat. 11 26.1 | 251 N.E. | 30.0 54.0 26.4 = 
Sun, 12 368 | 36.5 S.E 41,3 42.2 25.7 | 0.020 
Mo. 13 43.1 | 43.0 N. 50.2 86.2 84.4 = 
Tu. 14 41.5 | 89.2 S.W 48.5 76.2 29.7 = 
Means 40.0 | 38.9 OG | 45.0 68.9 | 81S | 0.824 


REMARKS, 


Sth.—Dull and damp early, fine evening. 
9th.—Very fine day, clear starlight evening. 
10th —Barometer falling rapidly (about 0.07 per hour), a wild, wet morn- 
ing, baromet:1 lowest at 1 p.m. (29.265 inches), being more than 
three-quarters of an inch lower than at 9P.m., on the 9th. After- 
noon fine with rapidly rising barometer, and a northerly gale in the 
evening. 
11th.—Very cold day, the shade temperature not rising to freezing point. 
12th.—Milder, damp, dull day. 
18th.—Fine, bright day, sun quite warm at times, black-bulb thermometer 
reached 862. Fog in evening. 
14th.— Bright, mild, genial day, hazy in evening —G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—FeEsrvary 15. 


Very little variation has taken place, the open weather haying afforded 
us a better supply. Our quotations remain much the same. Good 
dessert Pears are in somewhat better request, also good forced vegetables. 
Large quantities of ordinary Apples are in the market, and itis difficult 
to effect sales of them. Large arrivals of Potatoes are again to hand, 
and only yery choice parcels obtain last week’s rates. 


FRUIT. 
8d. 68. a 8s. d. 8. d 
Apples... tsieve 1 0 to2 0 | Mulberries 0 0 tod 0 
Apricots . doz. 0 0 O 0} Nectarines 00 00 
Cherries. Ib. 0 0 (0 0| Oranges 6 0 10 0 
Chestnuts hel 10 0 18 G| Peaches 00 00 
Currants ysieve 0.0 O O| Pears,kitchen 10 80 
_ Black -do. 00 00 dessert.. 30 8 0 
Figs ..... doz. 0 0 0 0] Pine Apples . 50 8 0 
Filberts. -lb. 0 0 2 O} Plums..... SOP 20e0 
Cobs... --lb. 2 0 2 6| Quinces .. 00 00 
Gooseberries......quart 0 0 0 (| Raspberries 00 00 
Grapes, Hothouse..,. lb. 5 0 10 0| Strawberries HOMO 20) 70 
Lemons............ #100 6 0 10 0} Walnuts..... 10 0 16 0 
Melons...ceeceee,--08ch 10 4 0 GO..cacoccnceeee 100 1:0 2 0 
VEGETABLES. 

8.d. 8. a s.d. 8. a 
Artichokes...-...... doz. 0 Oto0 0| Leeks............ bunch 0 4to0 0 
Asparagus ... .#%100 7 0 10 0| Lettuce .. se doz. 1 0 2° 0 
Beans, Kidney ....4%100 2 0 8 0} Mushrooms . . pottle 10 26 
Broad........ bushel 0 0 0 0O| Mustard&Cress..punnet 0 2 0 0 
Beet, Red.. 5 2 0 8 0} Onions ... bushel 4 0 7 0 
Broccoli ........ Ort beg picklin, quart 0 4 0 0 
Brussels Sprouts..tsieve 8 0 4 0) Parsley.. sieve 8 0 6 0 
Cabbage... a 10 a i Eatenig ele 4 " : £ 

Capsicums 0 0 ONS ..00 quar 
2 0 4 0 8} Potato bushel 2 0 40 
20 60 Kidni ....do, 3 0 4 0 
16 2 O| Radishes..doz.bunches 0 6 1 0 
8 0 6 0O| Rhubarb........ dle 09 16 
16 8 O| Savoys.. Ge ay 10, 
0 0 O 0| Sea-kale.. 20 80 
2 0 O 0} Shallots.. 66 O6 
0 8 O O| Spinach... 80 50 
...lb. 0 8 0 0} Tomatoes . 00 00 
IDB asics eve bunch 0 8 @ 0| Turnips..........bunch 0 6 0 0 
Horseradish ..., bundle 8 0 6 0| VegetableMarrows..doz. 0 0 0 0 


POULTRY MARKET.—Feprvary 15. 
Finer weather, the meeting of Parliament, and the conclusion of the 
game season have given a little more life to the market. The supply is 
somewhat below the average, but it is equal to the demand. 


8. d. 8s. a s. gd. 8. da. 
Large Fowls ........ 8 @6to4 0 - 1 Otol 8 
Smaller ditto ........ 2 6 8 0 void LG 
Chickens ..... et aero) 0 9 O 10 
Ducks ....... 2 0 2 6 } Hares ......... + 18 uO erm 
Geese..... .. 7 0 8 O | Guinea Fowl..... 2 0552086 
Pheasanta,..ccoccscee 1 9 2 8 | GFOUBC cscrecrrereree O O O 9 


February 25, 1871. J JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 133 
” WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day vars ini 1, | Clock | Day 
: a age Tempera- | Rain in Sun Sun Moon Moon | Moon’s 
oy oe FEB. 23—MARCH 1, 1871. ture near London. |48 years.| Rises Sets. | Rises. | Sets. Age. pretax Os 
Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. | m. h.| m. h.| m. h. | m. h.| Days. | m. 38. 
23 TH | Meeting of Royal Society, 8.30 P.M. 47.4 | 31.5 | 39.4 14 laf] | 27 af5 | 56 af8 | 57af 9 4 18 37 | 54 
24/8 47.1 | 82.8 | 39.9 20 59 6/29 5)18 y 6 11 5 | 18 28) 55 
25 | 8 47.7 | 92.7 | 402 | 92 |56 6/80 5)|38L 9| morn. 6 | 138 19] 56 
26 | Sun | 1 Sunpay mn Lent. 47.2 | 836 | 40.4 23 546/82 5/154 9/12 O 7 #4138 9) 57 
27 |M Meeting of Royal Geographical Society, | 47.7 | 33.5 | 40.6 20 52) 611/84 5 | 20) lo} 19 2 »)) 12 58] 58 
28 Tu (8.80 p.m. | 49.1 | 32.8 | 40.9 15 5) 6] 86 51|52 10|23 2 9 | 12 47 59 
1 Ww Royal Horticultural Society, Fruit, Floral, | 47.4 | 33.6 | 40.5 16 48 6)|87 5|80 11|2! 8 lo | 12 36} 60 
{and General Meeting. | | 

From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 47.7°, and its night tempera- 
ture 82.9°. The greatest heat was 62°, on the 25th, 1868; and the lowest cold 18°, on the 24th, 1860. The greatest fall of rain was 0.92 inch. 


THE CAMELLIA, AND ITS CULTURE —No. 1. 
[A portion of the following paper was read at the Royal Horticultural 
Society’s Meeting on the 15th inst. | 


PP IVE a dog an ill name, and hang him,” isa 
proverb that is pretty generally known and 
understood in every phase of English life. 
Now I have to deal to-day, so to speak, with 
a dog that has unfortunately, and, in my 
judgment, undeservedly acquired an ill name, 
and one object I have in view in taking up 
his case is to endeavour to set him right with 
the public. 

j Those of us who have any knowledge of 
dog-nature must be aware that if we keep a dog unduly 
shut up, or feed him on unsuitable or insufficient diet, 
unless he be of a very accommodating disposition, he will 
most likely manifest some signs of uneasiness or displea- 
sure. Now, animal nature and plant nature are much 
alike in this respect. In dealing with the one as with the 
other, diet and treatment are everything, and pet plants, 
like pet animals, are sometimes neglected, sometimes ill- 
nurtured by improper food, and sometimes fed or worried 
out of health. 

To drop metaphor, the Camellia japonica is a native 
of China and Japan, and was introduced to this country 
by Lord Petre about 1739. It was named in honour of 
George Joseph Camellus, a Moravian Jesuit. Mr. Fortune, 
who has travelled both in China and Japan, has obligingly 
given me the following account of the plant or tree in its 
native countries. 

“Thave met with the Camellia japonica growing as a 
wild plant over a large tract of country in the central and 
southern provinces of China, but its principal habitat lies 
between the 20th and 30th degrees of north latitude. 

“The early spring in the district alluded to is generally 
remarkably fine, and rather dry. From April to June the 
weather breaks, and becomes moist and showery. In the 
end of June and throughout July heavy rains and frequent 
thunderstorms prevail. In August, September, and Octo- 
ber the weather is usually dry and fine. The south-west 
monsoon, which prevails during the summer months, now 
changes to north-east, and the weather becomes variable 
during the latter part of the autumn and winter. Those 
who know how to cultivate the Camellia in Europe will 
see at once how well such a climate is suited to its consti- 
tution. It has in its native home a winter cold enough 
and dry enough to check vegetation, and to secure a period 
of rest; an early and fine spring, during which time the 
flowers bud forth into bloom, a moist atmosphere in the 
growing season, and a dry and warm summer and autumn 
to ripen the young shoots. 

“T generally found the Camellia growing in woods where 
it was partially shaded from the sun by other trees, and 
in these situations it often attained a height of from 30 to 
40 feet. The wild plants have usually single or only semi- 
double flowers. The foliage of these trees is exceedingly 
handsome—a dark glossy green. The double-flowered 
kinds, which have been from time to time imported to 

No. 517.—Vou. XX., NEw SERIES. 


Europe, are garden varieties, and are only met with ina 
cultivated state. 

“There are several species of Camellia found in China, 
but with one exception—namely, C. reticulata, none are 
so handsome as C. japonica and its varieties, and of these 
we in Europe have a more extensive and finer assortment 
than the Chinese have themselves. 

“Tn Japan the Camellia is also found in a wild state. 
I met with it frequently in shady woods like those in which 
Thad seen it in China. In Japan Camellia Sasanqua is 
used for ornamental hedges round the gardens near Yeddo, 
the capital of the country. In November these hedges are 
very beautiful when the white and rose-coloured varieties 
of the species are in full bloom.” 

The Camellias originally introduced by Lord Petre in 
1739 were killed by being kept in a hothouse—this was 
keeping the dog unduly shut up—and some years must 
have elapsed before the plant was re-introduced, for it is - 
not found in the seventh edition of Miller's ‘‘ Gardener's 
Dictionary,” published in 1759. Abercrombie, however, 
includes it in his list of hothouse plants given in the 
“Garden Vade-Mecum,” published in 1789. Several beau- 
tiful varieties were introduced from China towards the 
close of the last and at the beginning of the present cen- 
tury, among them the Double White, the Double Striped, 
Lady Hume’s Blush, Fimbriata, and Imbricata : reticulata, 
Cup of Beauty, and Princess Frederick William were of 
later introduction. Others have been raised by English, 
continental, and American horticulturists. The nurseries 
of Messrs. Chandler, of Vauxhall, and Messrs. Loddiges, 
of Hackney (both now abolished), produced early in this 
century many beautiful new varieties, and the late Mr. 
Press, of Hornsey, and Mr. Fielder, of Enfield, added to 
the store. 

Mr. Chandler tells me that about the year 1819, a season 
very favourable for seeding, he saved about half a peck of 
seeds from the variety known as Warratah, the flowers of 
which had been fertilised with the pollen of the Double 
Striped and other esteemed sorts. The seeds were sown 
as soon as ripe, and vegetated in a few weeks, producing 
several hundred plants. When two years old, and from 
6 to 9 inches high, these seedlings were inarched on the 
Single Red, and in two or three years they flowered. From 
this crop were raised Chandlerii, Eximia, Elegans, Florida, 
Aitonii, Rosa-sinensis, Corallina, Althzflora, Woodsii, In- 
signis, Concinna, and others. 

My. Press appears to have been most successful with 
the Anemone-flowered varieties—that is, those kinds which 
have a cluster of small petals in the centre, and a row of 
large petals at the base of the flower. Of these Eclipse, 
Picturata, and Candidissima may be given as examples. 
Mr. Fielder’s seedlings are more of the florists’ type, re- 
sembling the old Double White in shape. Two of his seed- 
lings, Jubilee and Rubescens, raised some twenty-five years 
ago, still rank among the best. Miniata, Lowi, and Alexina 
were also raised by him. Mr. Fielder tells me that Miniata 
was raised from Sasanqua and Lepida, and that he still 
considers Lepida, an old semi-double red kind, with large, 
smooth, thick petals, one of the best to raise seedlings from 

No, 1169.—Vou. XLYV., OLD SERIES. 


134 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


He further says that he has tried numerous experiments with 
the view of raising seedlings from reticulata and Donckelaeri, 
but has never succeeded in doing so. 

Although other English and Scotch gardeners have been 
successful in introducing here and there a good variety, the 
number of English-raised sorts has not recently been great. 
Judging by the names of the novelties which are now reaching 
us, we may, I think, reasonably assume that Italy is doing the 
best work in this field at the present time. 

In 1826 Chandler and Buckingham, of Vauxhall, published 
‘Camellia Britannica,” a quarto volume with eight plates, and 
in 1831 appeared ‘‘ Illustrations and Descriptions of the Ca- 
melliz,” by Chandler and Booth, in which some of the finest 
varieties then known were figured and described. Shortly 
afterwards was published a work on the same subject by the 
Messrs. Baumann, of Bolwyller, and more recently a beautiful 
work by Mr. Ambroise Verschafielt, of Ghent, appeared, the 
latter containing innumerable and beautifully executed plates. 

The Camellia is by nature a first-class town plant. Some 
few years ago it was an object of special culture both at Lod- 
diges’, at Hackney, and Chandler’s, 2t Vauxhall. It was a great 
treat to lovers of flowers to visit either of these establishments 
during the season of flowering. Ihave seen both collections 
when at their best. Chandler’s young plants always appeared 
to me the most comely, but Loddiges’ large plants were gorgeous 
beyond description. They were planted out in a house some 
30 or 40 feet high, and many of them were pressing against 
the glass at the top of the house. As you walked beneath and 
gazed upon the broad, dark green massive leaves, plentifully 

_ sprinkled with various coloured flowers, blackbirds, thrushes, 
and smaller birds fluttered incessantly among the branches, 
where, with a keen sense to comfort, they had buili their nests 
in this splendid grove of flowering trees. But all this, alas! 
has passed away, and I know of nothing now in existence that 
can in any way compare with it. We must turn our eyes in 
another direction—to the improvement and multiplication of 
varieties, if we would set up a claim to progress in this branch 
of horticulture. Some of those old varieties are, doubtless, 
surpassed by the recent introductions, if we judge them by the 
symmetry of the individual flowers, and where there were 
hundreds of Camellias in those days there are thousands now. 
With this brief historical sketch I shall proceed to the more 
practical part of my subject. 

Hyerybody acknowledges the Camellia japonica, or Japan 
Rose, to be 2 beautiful plant, but many consider it a difficult 
one to grow and preserve in good condition. This impression 
derives support from the fact that we often meet with plants 
which ere misshapen and have a meagre appearance, the 
flower buds sometimes dropping off prematurely. If, however, 
the plants and varieties be properly chosen, this need not be, 
except by default of the cultivator. The Camellia may be 
grown and kept in conditicn with as little trouble as the com- 
monest of our hardy plants. True, it requires special treat- 
ment, and I shall proceed to Jay before you the results of my 
experience in cultivation under the following heads :— 

1. Of Soils. 3. Of Propagation. 
2. Of Climate. 4, Of General Culture. 

And Ist, of Soils. Camellias will grow very well in either 
peat or loam, but it should not be poor peat or loam—the dog 
will not thrive on insufficient diet. Chandlers grew their 
plants in two parts loam and one part peat. Loddiges grew 
them in peat alone, in loam alone, and in a mixture of both. 

I have found Camellias grow more luxuriantly in loam than 
in peat, but they flower more freely in a mixture of both. 
Some people are accustomed to speak of loam and peat as 
if these words possessed a precise and definite signification, 
whereas, according to my experience, they possess a very vague 
and indeanite one. There is rich peat and hungry peat, sandy 
peat and fibrous peat, and, horribile dictu/ sour peat, which is 
usually gathered in low wet places, and which every good 
gardener will studiously avoid. Loams vary in a similar man- 
ner. The physical or mechanical properties of the soil are of 
scarcely less importance here than its chemical properties. 
We want a soil that is open and porous, which it will certainly 
be if sand and fibre abound in it. 

The soil I prefer for the Camellia is composed of three parts 
sandy loam, ana one part fibrous peat and leaf mould in equal 
quantities. If sandy loam is not readily obtainable, light loam 
may be used, with the addition of drift sand. To this adda 
few small lumps of charcoal and a few pieces of crushed bones. 
Manure, however, I prefer giving principally in a liquid state 
during the season of flowering and growth only. These dif- 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ February 23, 1871. 


ferent materials should be broken up and mixed together some 
months before they are required for use, and be turned over 
occasionally that the component parts may become thoroughly 
incorporated, and every part be subjected to the mellowing 
influences of sun and air. : 

2ndly, of Climate. We have scen that the plants first intro- 
duced were killed by being kept in a hothouse; it is, therefore, 
amusing to find old Abercrombie including the Camellia among 
hothouse plants fifty years later. The fact is, the plant is 
nearly hardy in the climate of Britain, and the less fire heat 
employed, except during the growing season, the better. In 
the flowering season the flowers do not expand kindly, and 
often fall speedily if placed in heat. In Devonshire, in many 
sheltered parts of tke country, and even in the neighbourhood 
of London, where the soil is tolerably dry, the Camellia has 
been planted out both in the open ground and against walls, 
where it has resisted the frost of several successive winters. 
It must be told, however, that some varieties are hardier in 
our climate than others. One cf the most skilful of American 
horticulturists has assured me that some kinds which usually 
have a delicate and meagre appearance here are exceedingly 
healthful and vigorous in the climate of New York. Wecannot 
count upon the Camellia as a flowering shrub, only as an ever- 
green shrub, out of doors in this country, because the flowers 
produced under out-of-door culture expand in spring, when 
they are often quickly spoiled by the variable weather. In 
order to rejoice in all its beauties we must then use glass 
structures. In winter and spring it will suffer nothing, when 
under glass, from 10° or 15° of frost. Both Chandler’s and 
Loddiges’ collections were frequently frozen, but never hurt. 

When the flowering is over, and the new growth commences, 
sayin March, a warmer climate than we usually experience 
out of doors is desirable. A temperature of 60° to 70° by day 
and 50° by night should be maintained throughout the growing 
season, which we will assume to be March, April, and May. 
The hygrometric state of the air is not less important than its 
temperature at this season. Mr. Chandler attributes the drop- 
ping of the buds to dryness of atmosphere and too much fire 
heat. -What gardeners call a moist air should be secured by 
syringing ihe plants once or twice daily, ecpiously or lightly, 
during the season of growth, according to the amount of sun- 
shine experienced. Soot water may be used with advantage in 
syringing. A close dank atmosphere must be avoided by the 
admission of more or less air from without, as the state of the 
weather may permit. By the use of heat and moisture at this 
season we seek to realise and combine a vigorous growth with 
a fall crop of flowers. 

The health of the Camellia is much influenced by sunshine 
and shade. The plant loves the shade. Some of the most 
remarkable specimens for foliage I ever met with were planted 
by myself against a west wall out of doors in my own neigh- 
bourhood, many years ago, in a spot where the sun scarcely ever 
reached them. Shade is necessary during the season of growth, 
for without it few or many of the leaves, according to the style 
of the house or the quality of the glass, will become burnt or 
blistered. The flowers should also be shaded when in bloom. 


“When growth ceases, and the young shoots become partly 


hardened and the next year’s bloom is set, the best climate is 
that out of doors. Remove the plants from the house, say in 
June, to a north border where they get the morning sun only, 
leaving them there till the middle of September, when they 
should be carried back to the house before the soil becomes 
saturated with the autumnal rains. These latter remarks, of 
course, apply only to plants in pots. But where the plants are 
in the ground under glass, nearly the same effects of climate 
may be secured by shading and giving air. Ina few words, I 
repeat the climate of England is very near to the best that the 
Camellia can have. The plant should be treated as a hardy 
evergreen with two slight exceptions—we should hold in our 
hands, by means of glass structures, the power of moderating 
a severe winter should it occur, and the power of giving a 
slightly higher temperature than that of our climate during 
the growing season in spring. 

I have often been asked, ‘‘ How is it that Camellias received 
from abroad, so vigorous and healthful in appearance when 
they arrive, almost invariably deteriorate in this country?” 
Some attribute it to climate, others to soil. In my judgment 
it is due to the forcing system they have previously been sub- 
jected to. These plants are grown far too long a periodin a 
hot, moist, shady climate, with the view of obtaining the largest 
possible plants in the shortest possible time. The hue which 
captivates is not that of health, but a hectic glow; the plants 


February 23, 1871. J JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


are really unsound, and it is no easy matter to restore them to 
a sound state. 

_ 3edly, of Propagating. The Camellia is propagated by cut- 
tings, by grafting, by budding, and by inarching. Propagation 
by cuttings is principally applied to the species (the Single 
Red), on which the choicer varieties are grafted, budded, or in- 
arched. Many of the double kinds root and grow well enough 
from cuttings, and are grown largely in this manner in America; 
but in this country they appear to grow faster and thrive better 
generally when grafted on the species. The young shoots of 
the species, when not over-ripe, say in August, are cut into 
pieces about 2 inches long, and placed in pots of sand, and set 
ina close house or frame under glass, where a gentle ground 
heat is maintained until they are rooted in the April following. 
They may then be placed each in a separate pot and kept in 
the same house or frame until they become established in the 
pots (September), when they may be removed to pass the winter 
in a cold pit. df heat be given during the growing season of 
the second spring, these young plants, or stocks, as they are 
technically called, will be ready for grafting in the following 
autumn or spring. 

Grafting is the method usually applied for increasing the 
finer kinds of Camellias. In autumn or spring pieces about 
13 inch long, with two leaves on each, may be cut off the plant 
which itis the intention to reproduce; the lower end of these 
pieces should be pared flat on one side, and the stems of the 
stocks being pared in a similar manner, the two flat sides are 
then brought in contact and bound together with cotton or bast. 
The plants thus grafted should be kept in a close pit or house 
for a few weeks, after which period they may be gradually 
inured to the open air. In spring the dormant buds of the 
scion or stranger plant may be allowed or encouraged to vege- 
tate, but those of the stock should be kept in check. When 
the adhesion is solidified the ligature may be withdrawn, the 
portion of the stock that has been left till then may be cut 
away, and the stock, or species, is to all intents converted into 
the variety we have laboured to reproduce. The cultivation 
ot sees yonug plants is henceforth the same as that of older 
plants. 

Propagation by budding may be followed successfully, but as 
I do not consider that mode so eligible as grafting for the 
Camellia, I need not occupy your time by entering upon it. 

: Propagation by inerching was much resorted to in the olden 
times, and is @ sure plan, and a capital one too, if a few large 
plants instead of a greater number of small ones are sought 
for. A good-sized branch of any favourite variety may be united 
to the stem of any less-valuable kind in the same manner as 
in grafting, except that in inarching the branch is not wholly 
detached until the union is perfected. The two plants are set 
side by side, a branch of the one is pared, laid, and bound on a 
pared branch of the other, and when the union is complete 
(in a few months), the two are separated, and the inarched plant 
is treated subsequently as if it had been grafted. 

: Propagation by seed is principally used to obtain new va- 
rieties. Stocks for grafting on are also raised in this manner, 
but I prefer those raised from cuttings of the species which is 
of a known hardy constitution, whereas seedlings are apt to 
vary much in that respect. The seed should be sown as soon 
as ripe, for if stowed away and allowed to dry the shell or 
exterior coating becomes go hard that the process of germination 
is retarded, and the chance of a crop lessened. Sow in pans 
in peat or light sandy loam, covering with the same soil to the 
depth of 14 inch, where there is artificial ground heat. Keep 
the soil regularly moist. When the germ pushes through the 
soil, constant shade is indispensable. The seed is often long 
in vegetating—it has been known to lie dormant for two years— 
and the seedlings will not usually bloom until four or five years 
old. Ican see no reason why Camellias should not be raised 
from seed as extensively in England as elsewhere; it is merely 
a question of cost, and there is certainly no finer field open 
to the experimentalist. — Wint1am Pavn, Paul’s Nurseries, 
Waltham Cross. 


SUBSTITUTES FOR USUAL VEGETABLES. 


Mr. ADDERLEY asks (page 66) for information respecting the 
best substitutes for Greens, &c., killed by the late severe winter. 

Parsnip tops I have found very useful when I have been 
short of Greens. Although they have rather a peculiar flavour, 
they are not to be despised; the crowns cut off the Parsnip 
will freely take root, and produce @ good crop if planted firmly. 
Common Tarnips and Swedes, if planted on a Iittle bottom 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 135 


heat, would produce a few good dishes in a very short time. 
Turnips sown now on a warm border would be found very 
useful, as they almost always begin to run to seed, instead of 
making bulbs, if sown early. Salsafy and Scorzonera tops make 
good substitutes for Spinach, and may be blanched like Sea- 
kale if preferred. Celery makes a very useful dish if boiled 
and served up like Sea-kale, although we do not often see it used 
in that way. Early long Radishes will be found very accept- 
able if boiled and served the same as Asparagus; and if Cu- 
cumbers be cooked like Vegetable Marrows it will hardly be 
possible to detect the difierence in their taste.—LaNcaSHIRE 
SUBSCRIBER. 


THE DOYENNE D'ALENCON, auras DOYENNE 
D’'HIVER NOUVEAU. 


Your correspondent, ‘‘B.,” has done good service by bring- 
ing this old but rather neglected Pear into notice. I received it 
under the latter name about the year 1840; I find it in my 
catalogue for 1843 under that name. It was, after a few years, 
on its origin being known, changed to Doyenné d’Alencon, it 
being a seedling found in the environs of Alencon. I remem- 
ber having an argument with the late Mr. Thompson, of Chis- 
wick, he thinking it to be identical with our Easter Bourré— 
Doyenné d’Hiver. I think he had received the latter sort 
under the name of Doyenné d’Alencon. I soon convinced 
him of his error by sending him some leaves. These are most 
unlike the Haster Beurré, as they are glaucous and downy. 
The climate and soil of Frogmore—an English paradise of 
fruits—must suit it well if it bears freely as a standard on the 
Pear stock. Here it succeeds on the Quince, and its fruit 
having a family resemblance to the Easter Beurré, is often 
good till May; in some seasons it fails to ripen, like other very 
late Pears. It requires, as I have always said, a warm climate. 
It has been distributed from here to a considerable extent for 
many years past. 3 

There are two valuable late Pears allied to the Doyenné race, 
and likely to be hardy and valuable—viz., Duchesse de Bor- 
deaux, alias Beurré Perrault, and Marie Benoist. These two 
kinds ripen in February and March, they are quite hardy, and 
likely to prove valuable. The finest and hardiest of our-late 
Pears is Bergamotte Esperen. I have eaten one to-day of 
rather a large size, as it was as large asa Brown Beurré—its 
flavour and texture as nearly as possible perfection. This sort 
but seldom fails toripen well here from pyramids on the Quince 
stock. Louise Bonne de Printemps, a very handsome Pear, 
seems inclined to ripen, after our last warm summer; and 
Olivier de Serres, 2 spring Nelis, ripens well in March and 
April, and has not yet failed to do so. 

I ought not to forget to mention a fine late Pear, Passe 
Crasanne, a specimen of which I ate this day (February 12th) 
a few minutes since; its appearance, yellow and red, very 
handsome ; size, medium or large; and its flesh quite melting, 
quite juicy, and quite rich, with its after peculiar and grateful 
aroma. Only one fruit out the locker was ripe and ready. 
This is a Pear raised at Rouen several years ago. It does well 
on the Quince, and forms a close pyramid, under which form 
it has been grown here for a few years. A seedling from it, 
Prince Napoleon, they say is even better than Passe Crasanne. 
We shall, I hope, see it this sezson. I believe it to be good, 
because the raiser is an honest Norman.—Txos. Rivers. 


VARIEGATED PLANTAGO LANCEOLATA. 


PLANTAGO LANCEOLATA bids fair to rival, if not to surpass, in 
beauty the smaller varieties of Funkias, being in its best con- 
dition in the spring—an advantage the Funkias do not7pos- 
sess; but it is not of much value during the summer months, 
owing to the plants during hot weather losing their variegation, 
which they again regain on the approach of winter. 

The variegation mostly consists of broad marginal bands— 
white, cream-coloured, or yellow, and sometimes there is a 
central variegation. These forms can seldom be produced from 
seeds, and the plants must be multiplied by division of the 
crown, or by cuttings with a small portion of the root stem 
attached, placed in spring in a slight bottom heat. They 
quickly make good plants, and may then be planed ont. Theirt 
low growth and rosette-like appearance render them very at- 
tractive. 

There are also several varieties of Plantago lanceolata with 
yellow and yellowish green variegation. These may be pro- 


136 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 28, 1871. 


duced from seeds, but are not so attractive as the margined 
varieties. 

Ihave also had some nice variegated varieties of Plantago 
major and Coronopus, but find them difficult to increase. How- 
ever, I can see sufficient indications of different forms of varie- 
gation in the Plantago family to warrant my predicting they 
will find a place in the select herbaceous border, and become 
welcome additions to the best collections of hardy variegated 
plants.—W. E., Gardener, Cromwell House. 


THE EFFECT OF GAS LIGHT ON PLANTS. 


Ir there is any branch of gardening for which I have a 
special liking, it is that of growing plants for house decoration; 
and if there is any part of my duty which I sometimes feel 
reluctant to perform, it is after growing my plants to have to 
subject them to the destructive influences of gas. This, per- 
haps, is only a natural feeling, and it is surprising how easily 
and almost imperceptibly such a feeling wears off when a per- 
son considers that it is just his duty to do that which is re- 
quired of him, and if employers are satisfied, why gardeners 
should be so likewise. But it has occurred to me that as many, 
if not most, of the private residences of the wealthy, both in 
town and country, are now lighted with gas, and plants for 
house decoration were, I think, never in greater demand than 
at present, I cannot do better than devote a short paper to the 
subject. Though my experience is rather limited, yet, as the 
matter is of great importance to gardeners generally, I hope 
that others will respond to my invitation and state their ex- 
perience also, so that gardeners and purchasers may know 
better what plants to grow or buy for the particular purpose in 
view. 

Although Ido not know of any plant that will even live for 
any length of time, not to say grow, in an atmosphere strongly 
impregnated with gas, yet a great variety of plants will with- 
stand gas for a surprising length of time, though not without 
injury ; while there are many that are injured beyond recovery 
in less than one night or day. The flowers of plants are gene- 
rally the first to suffer; the thick petals of the Orange flower 
and Camellia, and the more delicate petals of the Persian 
Lilac, Begonia, Pelargonium, Myrtle, Daphne, Rose, Deutzia, 
Fuchsia, Datura, Salvia, Acacia, Tulip, and Crocus, fall as 
suddenly as if by magic, and with less than two hours’ exposure 
to gas light; while the flowers of the Hyacinth, Cineraria, 
Spiree, Primule, Gesnera, Epacris, Heath, and Poinsettia will 
bear up for a considerable time, the last-named especially ; its 
showy bracts shrivel up, but do not drop. Of the foliage of 
the above-named plants, that of the Poinsettia, Orange, Rose, 
Lilac, and Cineraria are the first to show signs of distress, 
while the leaves of the others will mostly turn yellow or become 
sickly-looking before dropping off. Next come plants with 
ornamental foliage. Of these, the leaves of large-leaved So- 
lanums, Coleuses, Acacias, Farfugiums, and Wigandias sud- 
denly curl up, and as quickly fall to the ground; and those 
that stand the longest without showing distress are Richardia, 
Ficus elastica, the strong-growing Caladiums, such as pictum, 
esculentum, and atropurpureum; Maranta zebrina and Por- 
teana, Gesneras, Crotons, and Ferns. Isolepis gracilis must 
also be included. I observe that fine-foliaged plants are more 
ornamental by gas light than flowering plants, excepting, per- 
haps, the gaudy floral bracts of the Poinsettia. This plant is 
quite an exception; it will enliven the dulness of a bank of 
evergreens, it bears the heat and gas well, and is a favourite 
with everybody. 

Unless large quantities of plants should be required for 
special occasions, I presume the most expensive plants in the 
list I have given would not be used, nor should I advise it, for 
it is not difficult to compile a list of plants easily grown and com- 
paratively inexpensive, and that will resist the influence of gas 
tolerably well, so that less loss would be incurred if it should 
prove fatal to them. These plants consist of greenhouse 
Ferns, such as different kinds of Adiantum and Pteris, Rich- 
ardia «thiopica, Primulas, Cinerarias, Lachenalias, Myrtles, 
Gesneras, Ficus elastica, Isolepis gracilis, Poinsettias, Hya- 
cinths, Epacrises, Heaths, and some hardy evergreen shrubs, 
such as Thuja aurea, Cupressus torulosa, variegated Box, 
Euonymus, and the like. These are all dwarf-growing and 
manageable plants, but, doubtless, many more may be added. 

Lavoid as much as possible sending in early-forced shrubs 
and plants, such as Lilacs, Dentzias, and Ghent Azaleas. It 
often happens that many of the rooms to be decorated are 
heated to a high temperature, and, being a dry heat, it proves 


hurtfal to such plants as Heaths and Epacrises, which have 
very fine hair-like roots; the life is dried out of them. A 
good plan, when it can be adopted, is to tie some damp moss 
round the pots; it preserves the roots remarkably well. 

So far I have only noticed the behaviour of plants in heated 
and confined rooms, with little or no ventilation, and with the 
gas jets arranged close above, or may be below, many of the 
plants. In such positions, with the fumes of gas rising up- 
wards, the plants are at the greatest possible risk of being in- 
jured; but whether in large or small rooms, I think the injuri- 
ous effects of gas upon plants will be found to be small in 
proportion to the amount of ventilation given, and the facilities 
afforded for the escape of the impure air before coming in con- 
tact with the plants. Of this, however, I am not certain, and 
I should like to hear from others having more experience than 
myself, for gas-lighted structures are becoming so common, and 
the information as to the best plants to put in such places is 
so very scanty, that I hope to refer to the subject again at 
some future time when I shall have gleaned more experience. 
—Tuomas Recorp, Hatfield. 


HOP CULTIVATION FOR ORNAMENT AND USE. 
No, 2. 

PROPAGATION AND CuLTURE.—Having noticed the soils on 
which the Hop is often grown, we now come to its propagation 
and planting, the former being a simple affair, the latter often 
preceded by some expensive operations on the land. I shall, 
therefore, commence with planting, and say that when it is 
determined to make a new plantation it is usual to select 
one of the best plots of ground the farm possesses, and if it 
should have already been in tillage (which land, I may remark, 
is not considered so desirable as that which has been under 
wood, orchard, or grass), it is ploughed deeply in the ordinary 
way, and also subsoil-ploughed; or, what is better, and very fre- 
quently done, the surface is ploughed in the usual way, anda 
gang of men—ten, or perhaps a dozen—follow and dig up the 
bottom of the furrow before the plough returns. By a suitable 
arrangement of man and horse power this can very well be 
done without loss of time to either, and is much better than 
subsoil-ploughing. Trenching is not unfrequently performed, 
and in the case of woods, coppices, or orchards the removal of 
the roots generally effects the same purpose as trenching, and 
Hops like such land better than that which has been long 
under tillage; the consequence is that in many places coppice 
wood has entirely disappeared, only steep banks and a few 
patches being left for shelter or game. 

Supposing a plot of ground to be ready for planting, some 
one well used to marking out the ground is generally employed 
to set it out, as great exactness is often exercised in doing this. 
The most common way is to have what is called a ‘‘ square 
plant ’—that is, the rows are at right angles to each other; 
some, however, prefer the triangle, or what gardeners would 
call quincunx order, both often containing about the same 
number of plants per acre, generally 1210, they being placed 
6 feet apart each way in square planting, and something more 
in the diagonal measurement of the ‘‘ triangle plant.’’ Some 
planters give more space, but the majority only as much as 
stated; and a great portion of the work in the Hop garden 
being done by the piece, it is customary to regard 1200 plants, 
or hills as they are termed, an acre. In setting out a new 
plantation care is taken to have the line as straight as possible. 
An ordinary garden line with a piece of red worsted stitched 
into it at every 6 feet is sometimes used, but as the line is 
apt to stretch in dry weather and contract when wet, some 
check is used along with it. A chain made on purpose is 
more accurate. In the setting out, a stick is pushed in where 
the plant is to be, and the planting is done all together; I will, 
therefore, take the preparation of the plants next. 

Although the Hop produces seed in as great abundance as 
most plants, it is never propsgated in that way, except for 
experiment, the seedlings differing so widely from the parents, 
and a considerable portion of them being very often what are 
called male Hops—i.e., not possessing the bitter quality which 
gives value to the Hop. Itis, however, a disputed point amongst 
botanists of the Linnean school whether the plant belongs 
to the twenty-second or twenty-third class of that system, as 
the same plants which produce male Hops one year may pro- 
duce a few female ones the next, and vice versd ; accordingly the 
great body of growers carefully eradicate all male plants as 
they appear. Others again affirm that a few male plants ina 
plantation are an advantage rather than otherwise, and plant 


February 23, 1871. ] 


one to a hundred or thereabouts, insisting that the ninety-nine 
bearing plants with the aid of the one male plant produce more 
than a hundred all of a kind. Whether it be so or not, it is 
certain that the presence of the male plant is not necessary to 
insure good seed, as that is produced whether it be near or not. 
Bat as plants for general use are not obtained from seed it is 
needless saying more on this head, I will therefore at once 
pass to the mode in which Hops are generally propagated, 
which is simple enough. 

The Hop being an herbaceous perennial its stems die down 
to the ground every winter, but as the gathering of the crop 
renders it necessary to cut the bine in the centre long before 
the sap has ceased to rise in the stem, much injury is unavoid- 
ably done to the plant, but to render this as small as possible 
the bines or stems are cut as high as they conveniently can be 
consistently with their standing upright without support, for 
the poles to which they cling are removed at this time, and to 
eut the bine at a greater height than 2 feet from the ground 
would cause the tops to bend over, hang down, and bleed. 
The bleeding is said to weaken them, and great care is there- 
fore necessary to prevent it. In February or early in March 
what is called the dressing has to be attended to, the whole of 
the ground haying been previously dug, and the necessary 
dung, &c., added at the same time. The dressing here alluded 
to is the winter pruning, which is accomplished by scratching 
away the earth from the crown of the plant with a short- 
handled tool made for the purpose, and the shoots which 
have been standing all the winter are cut off close to their 
junction with the crown of the plant. As they are often 
buried in a slanting position in the ground, there will be 
6 inches or more that has been in the soil, and this part is 
frequently swelled to the thickness of 8 broom-handle, with 
some roots emitted, as well as embryo shoots. These cuttings, 
called sets, make the plants used for future plantations, and 
they may either be planted in their places at once, or, as more 
commonly practised, bedded-out one year in a nursery ground, 
whence they are transplanted to the ground allotted for them. 
Two or three are planted on a hill, unless plants are very 
‘Scarce, when only one is used, as is the case with a new or 
scarce variety. The growth of the bedded sets being, of course, 
better that that of the mere cut ones, larger poles are required, 
@ single pole of 6 or 7 feet high being sufficient for sets not 
previously prepared, while the latter require more than one 
year’s growth ere they are treated to what is called a full pole. 

Pouine.—After the old Hop ground has been dressed or cut, 
end when the young growth is a few inches high, it is time to 
put in the poles; in fact, this might be done earlier, only the 
shorter time poles are in the ground the better, to prevent their 
decay. Poling is often performed in April, and as Hop poles 
form a very important feature, as well as a very heavy item in 
the expenditure, I may state that for the taller kinds of Hops 
it is a common practice to put alternately two and three poles 
to each hill, or about 3000 poles to the acre of 1200 hills. In 
placing the poles, their sharpened ends are struck into the 
ground with a smart jerk, a hole having previously been made 
by an iron implement called a Hop-pitcher. The bottoms of the 
holes are about 16 inches apart, but the tops are somewhat 
more, care being taken at the same time to keep them as 
straight as possible in the direction called the main line; but 
whatever care be taken, it must be admitted that a piece of 
ground covered with naked poles has not by any means a pic- 
turesque appearance. 

TRIMMING AND Ty1na.—We now come to the management of 
the growing plant, the first operation after the poles are put 
in being tying the young shoots to the pole to start them. 
This is invariably done by women, who, by practice, become 
very expert at it. The young shoots, growing rapidly, must 
not be allowed to become too long ere they are tied to the pole, 
otherwise they get entangled with each other in a way difficult 
to remedy; at the same time they must be long enough to 
reach to the pole, or nothing can be done with them. Some 
growers like the most robust shoots tied in, but the majority 
reject them, and prefer the middle-sized, short-jointed, rather 
wiry shoots as being the best. All agree that about three 
shoots are plenty for a pole, and sometimes only two are pre- 
ferred. The shoots are tied to the bottom of the pole by a sort 
of sliding tie, which gives way when the bine increases in size, 
and they quickly take to the pole, but they have to be looked 
over again in about a week, and if not climbing up properly 
another tie has to be given. They are then often about a yard 
high, and at this time, or when they may be somewhat higher, 
ail the surplus shoots are pulled off the crown of the plant, 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


137 


and two or three spadefuls of earth are put upon it. After 
this it is seldom any more shoots appear there during the sea- 
son, the whole energies of the plant being directed to the 
growth of the bine running up the poles, which it does in the 
spiral direction common to all climbers, excepting the Kidney 
Bean, which twines the reverse way. The growth of the Hop, 
when the plant is 6 or 8 feet high, is often very rapid if the 
weather is fine at the end of May, when the growth frequently 
exceeds 6 inches in twenty-four hours, mild moist days and 
warm nights being the times when this plant is supposed to 
make most progress, which, however, is often arrested by 
enemies difficult to deal with, and sometimes the weather 
is not propitious. At this time the cares and anxieties of 
the Hop-grower begin, and they do not cease until the crop is 
gathered, and I may say sold and paid for, as few plants are so 
liable to mishaps as the Hop. The means taken to combat its 
insect enemies being such as a gardener may study with ad- 
vantage and take hints from, I will make no apology for 
entering at length into this department. being convinced that 
the bulk of the gardening community have a very imperfect 
knowledge of what the Hop-grower is doing in this direction.— 
JoHN Rosson. 


CALCEOLARIA FAILURES. 


I wave found, in almost every instance, the cause of Cal- 
ceolarias failing, of which Mr. Robson complains, is their being 
planted in poor, sandy soil, incapable of retaining moisture for 
any length of time; consequently at the first period of dry 
weather the roots are burnt, as will be found upon taking up 
the plants and examining them. 

In taking cuttings in September I always give the preference 
to short stocky shoots cut off with the heel. I insert them in 
large 60-pots, six in a pot, using equal parts of leaf mould, 
drift sand, and chopped moss, with plenty of drainage. I 
then place the pots upon coal ashes in a cold frame, which I 
always set facing the west. I plunge the pots in water before | 
putting them in the frame, and but little water is needed till 
the cuttings are rooted. After they have struck admit air by 
raising a little the bottom and top of the light. I never take off 
the lights entirely till the beginning of March, for I consider it 
gives the plants a check, which I always avoid if possible. 

At the beginning of February I pinch out the top, and at the 
end of the month I plant out in a frame on a warm border, 
placing the plants 4 inches apart every way, having previously 
prepared the ground in the following manner:—I take out 
3 inches of soil, then fill in with 3 inches of rotten dung beaten 
firm, and cover the dung with sufficient soil, consisting of leaf 
mould, turfy loam, and drift sand in equal parts. After plant- 
ing, keep the plants close till they are again established, then 
give them as much air as possible, taking off the lights en- 
tirely as the season advances. 

In taking up the plants, cut round them with the trowel, and 
lift them with the ball entire. In planting out, choose a mild 
day early in April, having previously exposed the plants night 
and day for at least one week. 

In preparing the beds I take out the soil to the depth of at 
least 1 foot, and fill in with 6 inches of good rotten dung 
pressed firm, and 4 inches of rough turfy loam, such as we use 
for Cucumbers, keeping the beds at least 2 inches below the 
walk or lawn. If the beds are to be occupied with other things, 
remove 1 foot of the old soil and fill in with good turfy loam, 
which agrees with all bedding plants, with the exception of 
Coleusez, which need an addition of sand. The most import- 
ant point of all is to give water before they become too dry ; 
when once they flag no amount of care will bring them round. 
I use manure water, tolerably strong, alternately with pure 
water, watering in the evening during dry weather twice a-week, 
and giving at least one quart of water to each plant. 

I place the frames used in protecting the cuttings in a turf 
pit, and fill in between with litter. This, with a few mats 
thrown over during severe weather, will keep all safe.—W. 
Cuark, Cheshunt, Herts. 


AMERICAN POTATOES. 

In answer to Mr. Riyers’s observations on the American 
Early Rose Potato, I am very sorry indeed to find that he is 
80 prejudiced against the ‘‘ Yankees” and their Potatoes. I 
wrote to your Journal a short time since, mentioning the good 
qualities of, and highly praising the Harly Rose for its heavy 
cropping, good size and appearance, and first-rate cooking pro- 


138 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 23, 1871. 


perties, and I still affirm, heving thoroughly proved it, that it 
is one of the best Potatoes in cultivation. 

I am afraid Mr. Rivers puts too much confidence in his 
cook, for he says, ‘‘ they were found to be harsh and dry, with 
a hard centre.” This proves to me that they were improperly 
cooked. Ishould advise Mr. Rivers, before pronouncing such 
a strong condemnation upon them, to cook them himeelf, and 
if one way fails, to try another—not that this Potato requires 
any different method of cooking from anyother. I do not wish 
Mr. Rivers to become a cook; but where the character of such 
a noble variety is at stake, and when amateurs and others 
might be misled, and be prevented from knowing the true 
ec aracter of this excellent Potato (for the pen of Mr. Rivers 
is greatly depended on by this class), it would be more satis- 
factory if he tried them himself. This is not the first, second, 
or third time I have known Potatoes condemned through bad 
cooking, and I fancy myself to be an adept in cooking Potatoes, 
for I have several times turned them oui fit for anyone’s table 
when good and professional cooks have cast them aside as a bad 
sort.—J. C. Lewis, Sudbury, Derby. 


HOW AN AMATEUR GROWS GRAPES 
SUCCESSFULLY. 


Havine satisfied myself that it is a very easy and pleasant 
occupation to successfully grow Grapes under glass with scarcely 
any artificial heat, and at a very moderate cost, without neglect- 
ing my usual daily employment (being absent from home ten 
hours per day), I feel desirous of stating what i have done 
during the last three years. 

My residence is about a mile from one of the central towns, 
and it being a detached cottage facing the west, I was recom- 
mended to build a lean-to glass house on the south side as a 
vinery and general greenhouse. A builder, who knew his 
business, contracted for £30 to erect one the full length of my 
dwelling, 30 feet long, 9 wide, 8 high in front, and 13 ai back, 
with a door leading directly into my dining-room and one into 
the garden. I then puta double row of 3-inch piping for hot 


water, about 90 feet in all, along the front and both ends, partly | 


below the floor for the convenience of the door, the remainder 
about 6 inches above the floor, and covered with latticework ; 
on the outside, at one end, I had a pit dug 5 feet deep and 
3 wide to hold a small copper boiler for heating the water by 
gas. This apparatus complete, including piping and fixing, 
cost £15, and it answers admirably. 

Being quite ignorant of Vine culture I wrote to your office 
for the ‘‘ Vine Manual,” which I read carefully, and, in addi- 
tion, asked the advice of an old gardener, who recommended 
me tc make an outside border, 3 feet wide and 2} deep, along 
the front and ends of my new house. This border was com- 
posed of two kinds of turf, quite fresh, from heavy and light 
soil, cut up into pieces from 3 to 6 inches square—three bar- 
rowloads; of light loam two barrowloads, and about one bar- 
row filled with lime rubbish, oyster shells, small bones, and 
horse manure. Being a light porous subsoil, no drainage was 
required. The border was elevated 6 inches above the sur- 
rounding ground, gradually sloping from the house, and finished 
in February, 1868, the materials being mixed together before 
they were put into the hole. 

In about six weeks, having given the border time to settle, I 
sent the gardener to a Vine-grower for some year-old plants; 
he bought two Black Hamburghs, two Alicantes, and one Old 
White Tokay for, I think, 30s. They were set in April, 1868, 
not more than linch deep, and the canes brought into the 
house through holes in the well a little below the level of the 
border. Over the roots of each was put half a barrowful of 
light, fresh stable manure, to produce warmth and to encourage 
growth. The Vines soon began to grow, and were allowed for the 
first year to run over the house without any pruning, and only 
one bunch of Grapes was left to each. They were cut down 
in January, 1869, leaving two or three good canes to each; 
next season they were permitted to grow freely with very little 
pruning, end to bear five bunches of fruit each. 1870 brought 
me good, strong, healthy Vines, with from forty to fifty bunches 
of Grapes upon each. I allowed one hundred and fifty to 
ripen, and began to cut the fruit early in October, and ccntinued 
cutting till January 15th, when I had 30 lbs. of good, sound 
Grapes, having had nearly 130 lbs. of fresh ripe fruit during 
the season—four months; some of them are not eaten yet, 
February 10th. 

The cost in labour has not been 20s. since they were first 
planted. I only employ a man to cut the Vines down in 


‘experience on this matter. 


January, and to paint them over with a mixture of soft soap ang 
sulphur. Ilet the canes lie down until they have started in 
spring, then tie them up to the wire fixed crossways in the 
rafters, and continue this about once a-fortnight during the 
season. 

The most troublesome job was thinning the fruit. I ent 
away several pounds’ weight of Grapes, and yet I am told f 
should have had much finer fruit had I thinned them more. 
All branches bearing fruit I kept weli pruned back to the second 
joint, excepting the thickest leading canes, which were allowed 
to make strong new wood for another season. 

I find the most particular times are while the Vines are in 
flower, and in September when the fruit and wood require to 
be well ripened. The latter period was the only one at which 
T required to use artificial heat, but it is most important that 
the wood should be of a nut-brown colour, and thoroughly 
ripened. 

In spring and autumn I have the house shut up early in the 
afternoon with a little air; in summer the top ventilators re- 
main open day and night. My maxim is, Always give air, 
much or little, accordieg to season, when the sun shines, and 
not any artificial heat, excepting on cold days in September, 
and then give all you can with plenty of air. 

Were it not for my general collection of plants I should not 
require the gus on during more than twenty days in the year ; 
as it is, the number of days on which I use it does not exceed 
forty in ordinary seasons. My house being well sheltered from 
the north winds, 5° or 6° of frost are of no consequence, pro- 
viding it is well shut up. My better half scon learned these 
few rules of ventilation, and thus our united efforts have been 
crowned with success.—F. H. W. 


ICE ON GLASS ROOFS—GLAZING—HEATING. 


WE have been struck with the very timely and useful remarks 
of Mr. Pearson at page 63. The house referred to at page 50 
as having a short terminal square oi zinc resting on the wood 
in front, instead of the glass coming down all the way, is the 
steepest-roofed house we have, the roof coming down to within 
a foot of the ground, and the front sashes as well as those at 
the back are moveable. The roof is at an angle of 45°; the 
steepness, therefore, was all in its favour, yet from the snow 
melting and sliding down outside, and condensed moisture 
trickling down inside, there was a few days ago a ridge of ice 


| along the front of the house folly 4 inches deep, resting on 


the wood of the sash, the zinc, aad a little on the glass. We 
allowed it to thaw before moving it, being afraid to break 
it off lest we might injure the glass. This house is 50 feet 
in length, and as yet only one square has been broken by the 
frost, and that close to the zinc. The squares are rather small 
—about 8 inches; and as so far confirmatory of Mr. Pearson’s 
remarks, they are cut on the curve instead of the square, and 
with rather better than one-eighth of an inch of lap. The 
rounded lap looks the neatest, but we cannot sey that in past 
times we have found it stand frost better than those cut straight 
across. Thestatement of Mr. Pearson is therefore all the more 
important, and we trust that others will note and report their 
Then, again, were we putting up 
new orchard houses we would follow Mr. Pearson in using 
glass 14, 15, or 16 inches wide instead of 20 inches or wider. 
Such a size is not only more secure but more easily repaired 
when there is a breakage. As to weight, most of us would 
prefer 21-oz. to 15-oz. glass if we could get it. We would have 
no objection to even a much heavier good glass, believing that 
it would not only be more secure in general, but act in some 
degree as a regulator of temperature. There is just one fact 
that came under our notice that we would like to mention, 
and we would he glad to know if any reader has met with a 
corroborative case. A severe summer hailstorm that cracked 
arid broke a good deal of 21-oz. glass, scarcely cracked a square 
of 16-oz. glass. We expected to see roofs of squares 20 inches 
wide riddled, and at some risk to face and hands turned out te 
see the smash which we would be powerless to prevent. It 
was a pretty sight, nevertheless. The 15-oz. glass yielded and 
gave to the hailstones, and was uninjured. The heayier glass 
did not yield, and was cracked and broken. This is the solitary 
case that we know, in which the thinner lighter glass proved 
superior to the heavy glass. " 

Then the testimony of Mr. Pearson is most important as te 
the bad results of dispensing with laps, and placing the nicely 
ent squares edge to edge. A great many roofs have been 
covered in this way, a great number, we believe, on the patented 


February 23, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


139 


principle of Mr. Beard. Would some who have tried this plan | recommended the effect was admirable, and elicited the praises 


give us details as to how it passed through the late severe 
weather? United testimony on this matter would be most 
valuable, and especially in ornamental houses, as in them the 
Zaps often become eyesores. 

We trust that even the amateur who purposes putting up a 
house or two for his pleasure will ponder over what Mr. Pear- 
son says of cheap imperfectly annealed glass. It would be well 
ig there were some simple test beyond appearance for detecting 
glass not properly made. At present we must depend a great 
deal on price and the character of the glass merchant. We 
Have known cases in which very bad scored and spotted glass 
was obtained at the price of good glass. The rage for cheap- 
ness, however, is so great that it is no wonder that clever 
people are frequently taken in, and find that cheapness is just 
another word for dearness and discomfort. A few years ago.a 
gentleman who was resolved to have a cool house as cheap as 
possible, showed us a fair specimen of some glass he could 
have for about 1d. per foot. We stated we should be sorry to 
use it at any price. We grounded our opinion on the colour, 
the warpings, scratchings, and blotchings. However, like many 
eeople who ask advice and have already resolved to have their 
own way, the glass was purchased, and hardly anything could 
be kept under it without haying the leaves blotched and burned, 
no matter the amount of air given. This we expected, but we 
did not expect that as soon as the first frosts of the autumn 
came the squares would begin to crack and fly in all directions. 
After the second summer all had to be replaced. How are we 
to know when the annealing is all right ? 

As so much has been said on heating of late, we may mention 
that we went one afternoon to see the new stokehole and 
boilers placed in a little wood at Luton Park. Two boilers are 
placed side by side, to be worked singly or unitedly, one being 
deemed sufficient in ordinary weather to heat the whole esta- 
blishment, with its many ranges of glass. We have mislaid 
and forgotten some of the details, but most likely we shall 
revert to them ere long; meanwhile we may rsmark, that no 


better example could be given of the economy of heating large | 
establishments by hot water, as there is only one low chimney | 


instead of many, and this being 60 or more yards from any 
of the glass, there will be no dirtying of the houses by blacks, 
&e. The boilers, placed side by side, and working unitedly or 
Separately, secure safety, aS it is scarcely likely that both 
should go wrong at once. 

The main flow and return from the boilers go through an 
arched tunnel, deep enough for a man to pass along, and from 
these other main flows and returns are taken off as wanted. 
This conduit or covered passage being shut at each end, the 
pipes are found to contain a great reservoir of heat; and 
important, as bearing on some statements lately, the main flow 
in the conduit does not only rise a little all the way, but the 
other secondary flows to all the houses also rise from them; 
and from these, again, the heating pipes of each separate 
house rise considerably, so that the lowest pipes even for 
bottom heat are considerably higher than the main flow and 
return, and still more elevated above the boiler. As respects 
heating, nothing could answer better. But let those thinking 
of such a plan bear in mind that here there is no lowering oi 
pipes, all are above the boilers. Lastly, for the present, after 
trying many boilers and systems, these new boilers at Luton 
Park are just the old simple saddle-back.—R. P. 


AN IVIED WALL. 


THERE is nothing to my mind which gives a greater degree 
of comfort and snugness, combined with a cheerful home feel- 
ing, than well-kept Ivy walls. I emphasise well-kept, because 
their beauty mainly depends upon a little care and attention, 
and a very little will suffice to keep them in beautiful order. 

The Irish Ivy, so called, is best suited for the purpose. It 
should be planted in good goil and occasionally watered, and if 
with a little liquid manure it will grow the more rapidly. Care 
should be taken to cover the whole wall, but the main secret 
for keeping it in beautiful trim is every year to cut it closely 
at the beginning of March. It will, of course, remain bare and 
unsightly for a week or two, but the new leaves soon compen- 
sate for the temporary dullness, and give a lovely green surface 
that will delight and soothe the eye all the summer and winter. 

At a late residence a wall 40 or 50 feet long and about 10 feet 
high ran along the flower garden, and I covered it in this way, 
adding, at the same time as the Ivy was planted, some of the 
Strongest-growing Bourbon Roses. By adopting the plan above 


of all who saw it. Ii a good syringing can be given to the Ivy 
from a garden engine in the course of the summer, it will add 
much to the effect.—Horraror. 


VERBENA PLANTS SHRIVELLING. 


Like “BR. F.” we lost most of the Verbenas here in the way 
he describes. I could form no idea of the cause; they were 
struck in the usual way—that is, about eighteen cuttings were 
inserted in a 6-inch pot in September, and plunged in bottom 
heat until well rooted. Then they were gradually hardened off 
before storing them in their winter quarters, and all seemed to 
be thriving well until they were attacked just before Christmas 
with dark brown spots, first at the tips of the shoots. These 
spots seemed to gradually wither the plants up. I tried flowers 
of sulphur to no purpose. The disease seemed to me to attack 
the Verbenas in the same manner as the Potato disease attacks 
the Potatoes, and for both I have failed to find or hear of a 
remedy. I may mention that Purple King and Crimson King 
suffered the most. 

Tam glad to say I have not seen any signs of the disease 
this season. The plants received just the same treatment last 
season as they have this; they occupy the place where the 
Verbenas have stood for several years. I hope some of your 
correspondents will be abie to find out a remedy in case of 
future atiacks.—§. W. J. 


THE RIVERS PORTRAIT. 


Ara meeting of the trustees of the Lindley Library held on 
the 15th iast., Dr. Hoge presented, in the name of the sub- 
scribers, the portrait of Mr. Thomas Rivers, of Sawbridgeworth, 
to be heldin trust by them as part of the property of the Lindley 
Library. The portrait, which is a beautiful picture and an 
admirable likeness of Mr. Rivers, is now suspended on the walls 
of the large hall, on the right of that of Dr. Lindley. It was . 
painted by Mr. I. T. Peele, of Grafton Street, Fitzroy Square, 
and bears strong evidence of his high attainments as a portrait 
aitist. 


REPORT ON THE STATE OF THE VINES— 
PRACTICH AND PROPOSED ALTERATIONS. 


[Tue following report from a gardener to his master contains 
information which may be useful to others who possibly may 
be in somewhat similar cireumstances. Gardeners should keep 
in mind that a mistake, or an unfortunate termination to a 
previously unexplained measure, may be to them of serious 
consequence. | 


Wira the exception of two White Frontignans and one Buck- 
land Sweetwater the Vines are all Black Hamburghs. 

The Past.—About fifteen years ago a new border was made, 
the old Vines being lifted and some young ones put in. The 
border is of the same length as the houses, 10 feet wide and 
3 feet deep, including at the least 6 inches of broken stones and 
rubble. It cannot be widened. The soil is yellowish loam, 
not turfy, of medium texture, and mixed with some charcoal. 
The Vines have not been forced; they have been worked on 
the spur system and have borne uniform crops of excellent 
Grapes with but little shanking. The border has bad frequent 
surface-mulchings of fresh soil and some sweet decayed manure. 
It has been covered with wooden shutters during the winter. 
I should add that immediately in front of the border runs a 
gravel walk, and beyond the walk kitchen-garden ground. The 
roots are not confined to the border by a partition wall of any 
kind. 

The Present, commencing 1869, During this year I observed 
that the spurs pruned the closest produced Grapes inferior in 
size of bunch and general finish to those hanging from spurs 
which had been left longer at the winter pruning. During 
the summer I noticed the growth was unusually vigorous and 
rather coarse in wood and foliage. An abundant yet careful 
amount of air was given, and the houses never entirely closed 
at night; indeed they were, as they always are, worked at alow 
temperature. The Vines were allowed to carry as much foliage 
as possible, carefully preventing overcrowding. The shoots 
were stopped at two or three leaves beyond the bunch, and 
from this point the laterals were kept timely and continually 
pinched. My opinion at the time was, that the excessive growth 
was attributable to the roots passing under the walk ard into 
the garden. I looked but could find none, still, however, hold_ 


140 


ing to my opinion. At the winter pruning, taking advantage 
of my above-mentioned observations, I purposely, and I may 
add fortunately, left several spurs longer than usual, and also 
in places laid in some young wood. This year’s crop has been 
as good as usual, but the long spurs and the young laid-in wood 
have produced it. There has, however, been rather more 
shanking than usual, but still to no serious amount. One 
thing is clear—had I pruned the Vines on the usual short-spur 
system the crop, if it had not been a failure, would have been 
very far below the usual standard. The strongest and most 
vigorous Vine in the house, and so pruned, produced scarcely 
any Grapes at all. 

Another search for roots in the garden beyond the walk, and 
I found them in plenty at depths of from 1 to 2 feet. Most of 
the roots found are healthy and fibrous, some others are not 
so. I would particularly observe that the garden ground in 
which the roots are now ramifying is good to the depth of 
2 feet, then comes a foot of sour hungry loam resting on a bed 
of soft buttery-looking white marl. I now look at the Vine 
border proper, the 10-feet border. Ata foot below the surface 
I begin to find roots, but as destitute of fibre as any other 
water pipes, for this is what they amount to. The feeders are 
in the garden over the walk foraging for supplies to send up by 
these channels to supply the Vines. The Vines now get little 
or no sustenance from the 10-feet border. A prime cause of 
the Vine roots leaving the border may reasonably be attributed 
to three excessively dry summers driving the roots outwards 
and downwards in search of the required moisture which fell 
in such diminished quantities from the clouds, always remem- 
bering that they were naturally predisposed to ramble in search 
of fresh food, having during their growth extracted from the 
narrow border the particular aliment necessary to their sus- 
tenance. In the last-mentioned premise, I would incidentally 
mention, is to be found the reason why young Vines will not 
grow in old Vine borders. I have as briefly as possible, con- 
sistently with clearness, noticed the past and present, and now 
proceed to 

The Future.—To insure good crops of good Grapes in the 
future, a different system of management must be adopted. 
As long as the roots were confined in the border and near the 
surface, the spur system was right. There was something like 
a balance between root and branch. Now that the roots have 
taken a wider, almost unlimited range, the reciprocal action of 
root and branch isdestroyed. The canes are 18 feet]ong. The 
roots are found 36 feet from the house, and it is quite probable 
that they extend further than this. The balance lost must be 
restored, or the Vines one by one will probably follow the ex- 
ample of the one which is the most vigorous, and refuse to 
bear good fruit. There are two ways of restoring the necessary 
reciprocal action—one by commencing operations on the roots 
and branches conjointly ; the other by top or branch manage- 
ment alone. The latter plan is the simpler, being the system 
of letting a Vine have room to extend itself by cutting away 
the other Vines as it grows, and so letting it occupy several 
rafters or a whole house. The branches would soon be on 
an equality with the roots, and I am sanguine good Grapes 
would be the result. The drawback to this plan is the buttery- 
looking white marl subsoil, which suggests the question, Would 
the roots penetrate into it? If so, shanking would inevitably 
ensue. Whether the roots would enter this uncongenial soil is 
to me problematical. I think they would not, considering they 
have the range of 2 feet of good soil above it. I, however, 
hesitate to recommend it on my sole responsibility on account 
of the important question it involves. The former plan of 
root-and-branch action conjointly is to remove the soil from 
the border, entirely laying bare the fibreless roots, and to make 
them fibrous by covering them with 5 or 6 inches of proper 
soil, and this again with heating material of manure and leaves 
to the depth of 2 feet, or sufficient to give a gentle warmth to 
the fresh soil above the roots. This warm fresh soil would 
induce the emission of a network of spongioles from the old 
roots, essentially of a health-inducing and fruit-producing 
character. Surface-feeding roots of this nature predispose the 
top growth to short-jointed fruitful wood, and the spur system 
of pruning is auite in harmony with the practice. This, with 
young canes brought up and worked on the spur system, in 
conjunction with a general system of proper management, 
never fails to bring good Grapes. I do not say that one cover- 
ing of heating material would answer the purpose of always 
keeping the roots near the surface. It might be required in 
the first instance for two years consecutively, and then, per- 
aps, every alternate year to keep the Vines in permanent good 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 23, 1873. 


order. The limited number of Vines, and the demand on them, 
do not permit of experiments involving the risk of a loss, or 
partial loss of crop. 

The two methods put side by side stand thus— 

Ist. Letting the roots alone, and working the top on the long- 
rod or extending system. This I am certain would answer, ex- 
cept on account of the white marl subsoil, and, perhaps, ir 
spite of it. 

2nd. Raising the roots by surface heat and working on the 
short-spur system. This involves more labour and material. 
It would answer. 

Taking everything into account, which is it to be? What 
say the Editors, or their practical correspondents ?—W. 


[Many years ago the modes of pruning Vines were pro- 
minently referred to, and they have been noticed frequently 
since. It has been shown that with all the advantages of the 
short-spur system when the roots were near the surface, long 
and short rods in succession answered better when, from depth 
of roots, the wood was apt to be stronger, but pithy and long- 
jointed. The example you adduce of the vigorous but com- 
paratively barren Vine is a casein point. if the strong wood 
from that Vine were well ripened we have no doubt it would 
be very productive the following season ; but then we should be 
doubtful if spurring would answer in the succeeding year if 
the extra vigour showed the roots were deep and in moist soil. 
We do not place so much importance on the extension of roots 
and of branches being reciprocal. We think it very likely that 
there are more fibres in the original border than supposed, and 
if not, then the mere length would be of little importance if 
80 much of that length were destitute of feeders. We have no 
fault to find with the gradually-extending system, so as ulti- 
mately to have a few Vines, or only one, ina house; but we have 
no faith that the mere extension of the stems will alter the 
character of the Vines, if, as you suspect, the roots, owing to: 
the dry summer, have gone down in search of moisture, as we 
believe that then, as well as now, the young wood successions 
would be better than close spurring—that is, supposing you 
make no other alteration, except merely giving the Vines more 
headway. 

From the examination of the roots in the garden they do not 
seem to be too deep there; but if allowed to get dry they will 
go down after moisture into the uncongenial soil, and that will 
be best prevented by surface-mulching and surface-watering 
when necessary. You are not likely to have excess of moisture 
with this marl bottom at 3 feet from the surface, and unless the 
roots, from want of moisture above, are induced to go into it, 
we have no doubt you will have good Grapes on the short or 
long-rod system instead of close spur-pruning. Instead, there- 
fore, of adopting one of the plans you propose as first and 
second, we should be inclined to adopt both. We would first 
allow the roots in the garden to remain as they are, and en- 
courage them to keep near the surface by mulching and water- 
ing when necessary; and secondly, we would carefully remove 
the soil on the old border down to, but not so as to hurt, the 
roots, cover with a few inches of gritty fresh soil, and then add 
a little loam, with a slight hotbed over it as you propose. | 


SEEDLING PINE APPLES. 


I BELIEVE there are not many gardeners who have had much 
experience in raising and cultivating seedling Pine Apples. 
It is a subject seldom spoken of or commented upon in the 
horticultural press. It so happens that I have thirty-four dis- 
tinct varieties of seedlings under my care at the present time. 
In many instances their characters are very distinct from each 
other, and easily detected at first sight by cultivators of the 
Pine Apple. One of them is likely to become the tallest and 
most robust in cultivation, while at the same time it forms 
a plant of handsome proportions, its leaves being as straight 
as an arrow and covered with an unusually dense and light- 
coloured bloom, the spines being wider apart than in any other 
variety with which I am acquainted. This plant has been 
grown under great disadvantages, as I was never able to keep 
the bed in which it was plunged at a temperature of more than 
60°, in consequence of the hot-water pipes settling down late 
in the autumn, and, owing to circumstances, they could not 
be raised to the proper level till the following spring. The 
sucker from which the plant was grown was weak, having been 
taken from a sickly plant which had to be stripped of every 
leaf, and scrubbed and otherwise cleansed to get rid of scale. 
The small sucker made its appearance from this roughly-handled. 


February 23, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


141 


stool late in the autumn of 1868; and on the 2nd of January 
1870 I cut a fruit from it weighing almost 7 lbs. On the same 
date I cut a Smooth Cayenne 53 lbs. weight, and sent them 
both to the dessert on the same day. When the seedling was 
cut, the juice flowed from it, covering the bottom of the plate 
as if a sauce had been poured over it. The Smooth Cayenne, 
in comparison with the seedling, was dry and juiceless. True, 
the latter grew in the row of plants next the outside of the bed, 
and probably had even less bottom heat than the seedling. 

I may state that the dwarfest of the seedlings does not 
measure more than 12 inches in height,-and it is expected 
to show fruit very soon; so that in one batch of seedlings 
we have the extreme of stature at least, showing that the 
Pine Apple from seed is as variable as any other fruit. So 
far as I am aware, the Pine Apple in a cultivated state seldom 
forms a perfect seed; but exceptions in this case as in all others 
occur now and then. The fruit the seed was taken from in 
this instance was a Montserrat grown by my predecessor here. 
Thirty-four varieties became strong enough to be pricked off, 
grown on, and fruited by the late Mr. Stevenson. The Mont- 
serrat fruit in question was cut in 1860, and was pronounced 
bad, or not in good condition, and when shown to Mr. Steven- 
son he discovered the seeds and sowed them. Many fruit of 
their first produce he sent to the London Fruit Committee. 
Of some of them favourable reports were given, but a good 
many of them were pronounced indifferent, while others were 
considwred to be in cultivation before; but I do not think the 
Fruit Committee had a good chance of forming a fair decision, 
as the characters of the seedling produce were not fully de- 
veloped, some of the fruit weighing only 13 1b., and the heavi- 
est 4% lbs. Some may consider that time has been lost in 
planting these a second time; but when all the leaves have to 
be sacrificed, and the stumps only kept to raise a clean stock, 
loss of time is accounted for. I hope to fruit more of these 
seedling varieties this season, when a little more about them 
may be made known.—J. Hunter, Lambton Castle Gardens.— 
(Lhe Gardener.) 


MASTER AND SERVANT. 


W«rt you advise me as to the course pursued in the event of a gar- 
dener, who is a weekly servant, becoming ill and often unable to work ? 
When able to work he is industrious. He is in a club, from which he 
receives 15s. weekly, and I have hitherto paid him his 22s. during his 
illness, adding 5s. to enable him to find an occasional labourer, but I 
am sorry to say this was but seldom. He is again ill with inflamma- 
tion of the lungs—very ill, and, of course, cannot work for six weeks 
at least. I am a medical man, and so can give him all he requires ; 
but shall I be doing a mean or unkind thing in providing what labour 
I feel necessary, and handing him over the surplus weekly ? I am not 
rich, my garden being my only extravagance. What you advise I 
shall do. Again, he intimates that my work has caused him to be so 
often ill. 

My garden is an acre and half, one-half kitchen garden, one-quarter 
lawn, with half a dozen small flower beds, the rest borders with shrub- 
bery, &c. We have also a cow. My coachman is a handy man, and 
assists materially, and I do not look on.. There is a greenhouse and 
small stove house. He is only a plain gardener, so there is no earl. 
growing of flowers. Is this too much for one man? If so, do I pay 
enough—22s. weekly? He has his tea in the kitchen, any vegetables, 
fruit, and milk not required, and a glass, or even tivo, of beer daily. 
If so, could I obtain a fairly good man able to grow a few ordinary 
flowers, as I adore them, in winter? I am not inclined to change un- 
less he wishes it. Being a nervous, fidgetty being, must be the excuse 
of the one who signs—Srero. 


{If you are not rich in this world’s wealth, we may congratulate you 
on possessing the more enviable endowment of a kind, warm heart 
that can sympathise with the sorrows and afflictions of others. In one 
sense we are not at all surprised, for among all ranks and classes 
medical men stand separate and distinguished for their kindness and 
philanthropy. Alas! too often their self-sacrificing labours are apt to 
be forgotten when the aftliction has passed away. Were there more of 
such kindly consideration as you evince, the late Judge Valfourd, if 
he were now alive, would not have to say that the great want in this 
England of ours was a want of seen and felt sympathy between all 
ranks and classes of the community. 

On the whole, then, instead of giving you our advice, we would 
rather that you took the counsel of your own kind heart, and acted 
according to its promptings. A great many, however, are not able to 
do so; if they pay for labour, they must have the labour in return, 
and, therefore, without going to any extreme, we will allude to a few 
of the matters suggested by your letter. 

_ist. An acre and a half of ground, comprising half an acre of 
kitchen garden, a quarter of an acre of lawn, and a few flower beds, 
the rest in shrubbery, with a small greenhouse and flower stove, are 
quite enough for one man ; too much if early things were desirable, not 


at all too much if fully the half were in shrubbery, nee/ling little 
attention. All depends on what is wanted. ‘here is an old saw about 
a man to an acre in a garden, but we have seen gardens in which 
a man to an acre would have little to do, and we have seen other 
gardens where, from flowers, forcing, We., half a dozen men would be 
hard-worked. 

2nd. As to the matter of assistance from coachman or groom, un- 
less that is thoroughly understood and acted upon from the first, such 
help will generally be more found in the promise than in the per- 
formance, and what little we have seen would lead us to the conclusion 
that it is best to keep every department to itself. We are well aware 
that this cannot be done in many comfortable small establishments, 
but in such cases the coachman, groom, or others, should clearly 
understand they are to help the gardener. If that help is not to be 
depended on, it would be much better if the gardener had a boyor lad 
entirely under his own control. Unless the people in the stables have a 
zest for gardening, or know they must, as a matter of duty and service, 
give so much of their labour in the garden, our opinion is that all 
their labour and help would be of little value, and would be pretty 
well neutralised by the ill-feeling and the heart-burning fostered in 
consequence. 

In many places of much greater extent, where several men are 
ostensibly employed in the garden, and the gardener has the name of 
having such a number of assistants, there is often infinite dis- 
couragement arising from the custom of taking men from the garden 
whenever they are wanted for anything about the house or the 
establishment—going errands, attending shooting parties, &c. It is a 
very common thing, if the gardener fall at all behind in his work, to 
be told, or rather to have it said of him when he is not present, that 
he has so many men, and yet in the most trying times he could not 
calculate on having half that number when he most needs them. 
Under such circumstances true economy and mutual satisfaction would 
be realised by keeping each department to its own separate duties. 

5rd. We consider that the wages, with the other advantages men- 
tioned, are very fair for the place, and more especially if lodgings are 
found. If not found, and flowers in winter were desirable, then we 
think a trifle more should be given to an industrious, clever man. We 
give this opinion more in consonance with the general verdict on such 
subjects than our own unbiassed ideas on the subject. For such 
small places good men may be obtained at from £1 per week, and _ 
many owners cannot afford to give more. But in this respect we hold 
the opinion of the iate Mr. Loudon, that if the very most is to be 
made of a small place, you must get a first-rate man and pay him 
first-rate wages. In such a small place, to make the very most of it, 
he would have to work hard with his hands, and his brains, too, would 
be well exercised. In a large place, provided such a man were gifted 
with the faculties of order and organisation, he would have to work 
with his intellect more than with his hands. 

4th. When a man is at a distance from his own home it will be a 
great advantage to let him have his tea, and, if he likes it, a few 
glasses of beer, Wc., on the premises, but, except in such circumstances, 
or when there is a stated allowance, it is best 1o make the payment 
entirely in money, and do away with all such allowances from the 
house. They often foster a kind of craving in some men, and lead 
them to be dissatisfied. when actually they are well used. 

5th. In the case of a weekly servant we do not suppose there is any 
legal claim upon you to pay wages when a man is unable to work, and 
more especially after a week’s illness. We are glad to say that many 
in high positions act as you haye done, from a kindly feeling rather 
than from anything like legal compulsion ; many others, however, act 
quite differently. With them the rule absolute is, ‘‘ No work, no pay,” 
and we are sorry to say that there are cases that justify them in 
coming to such a conclusion. However, it is wisely ordered that kind- 
ness generally brings its own reward ; and it should not be forgotten 
that what is a mere trifle to a wealthy man may be a matter of next 
to life and death to a poor man. 

6th. We do not consider, in the circumstances, in atlending to 
your afilicted gardener’s medical wants, and other wants we haye no 
doubt besides, that you would be doing ‘‘a mean or unkind thing,” 
quite the reverse, if during his illness you found and paid for the 
necessary labour, and gave him the surplus weekly instead of his full 
wages. As already stated, this should be received as a matter of kind- 
ness rather than as a matter of right. We are a little in doubt as to 
your meaning, when, in speaking of paying your gardener his weekly 
wages when ill and adding 5s. to enable him to find an occasional 
labourer, you continue, ‘‘I am sorry to say this was but seldom.” 
If the extra labourer was but seldom employed, then we would rather 
have our suspicions than express our thoughts. Ree 

Again, considering the way the gardener has been used in his ill- 
ness, there is something rather repulsive in his intimating that ‘it is 
my work that has caused him to be so often ill.” This may be merely 
the utterance of a morbid, melancholy feeling, the result of trouble and 
affliction ; but no man with head and hands is required to stop in any 
place where the work is such as he knows to be ruinous to his health. 

Lastly, knowing nothing of the circumstances but what you tell us, 
and hoping that your servant is too upright to be swayed by any 
unworthy considerations, still having the regular weekly wages in 
illness, and receiving a weekly allowance of los. from a club, would 
rather be a temptation in some men’s way not to be in too great haste 
to be well and strong. It is sad to be obliged at times to look at the 


i49 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ February 23, 1871. 


dark side of poor human nature. Judging merely from what we have 
seen and known, we are not surprised that the managers of the best 
benefit clubs are careful that the money to be received in illress should 
be considerably less than what the members would receive as weekly 
wages; nor, again, have we been surprised that such managers have 
complained that some members when ill, and who from working to 
kind employers received a good part or the whole of their wages, as 
well as the allowance from the club; neyer seemed to be in a hurry to 
grow well. Alas! that there should be so much truth in this as to lead 
some benevolent employers to restrict their generosity in such cases, so 
that what they give and the allowance from the club may not exceed, 
or exceed but little, the usual weekly wages. True, ‘‘ when a man is 
ill he needs more,” but the scheming and the sponging often injure 
the truly deserving. In conclusion, then, every separate case should 
be judged on its own merits. We do not think you would act at all 
unkindly or meanly in adding so much to the club allowance, and pay- 
ing for the necessary labour ; but, as we said at first, we feel convinced 
your own heart will be your best adviser.—R. F. | 


LEICESTER SQUARE FOR A FLOWER MARKET. 
TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE METROPOLITAN BOARD OF WORKS. 


GENTLEMEN,—Hayving seen in one of the papers that you contem- 
plate taking under your direction and management what may justly 
be considered one of the metropolitan nuisances (I allude to Leicester 
Square), I, from my long and practical experience as a nurseryman 
and wholesale grower of florists’ flowers, beg to submit for your con- 
sideration the appropriating of so eligible a situation to what is so 
much required and really wanted—namely, a metropolitan flower 
market. 

I have attended Covent Garden as a florist regularly since the year 
1836, during which time I have always considered that we were very 
much in want of a flower market, similar to those of our neighbours 
on the Continent, where nurserymen and florists might send for ex- 
hibition and sale their horticultural and foricultural productions ; 
where ladies also would visit to select and purchase plants to decorate 
their balconies, flower boxes, and other modes for ornamenting their 
windows, &c. When considering the subject for more than twenty- 
tive years past, it has been a matter of great surprise to me, anda 
very singular circumstance, that a spot so well suited for that purpose 
as Leicester Square, from its central position, should not have been 
appropriated to that purpose years ago; and I doubt not, gentlemen, but 
you will agree with me in considering the situation admirably adapted 
for that purpose. 

Moreover, during my leisure hours of the long winter evenings, fully 
fifteen years ago, I amused myself by preparing a rough sketch of 
what I considered suitable, which represented a glass dome, in the 
centre, not more than 35 or 40 feet high. This I intended to be used 
as an aviary, a bazaar, winter garden, or promenade; and once or 
twice during the London season and summer to have a Rose or general 
tiower show. By this arrangement I dispose of the surface or upper 
part of the space occupied by the dome, under which I would remove 
the whole of the soil to the depth of 9 or 10 feet, which space might 
be used for cellars, or used, as the French people do the caverns round 
Paris, for the culture of Mushrooms; and, if so used, I am confident 
it would soon be rented to advantage. 

Having disposed of the centre, my arrangement for the disposal of 
the outside frontage of the square, according to my rough plan, would 
be as follows:—To appropriate the whole to a series of ornamental 
shops similar to those in the Grand Row, Covent Garden Market. 
Over each I would have one or two sleeping rooms, with a good kitchen 
in the basement; and in front of the shop alluded to I would have a 
space covered by a glass roof of from 150 to 200 or more superticial feet; 
this should be heated by hot water, or some other mode, and connected 
with the shop, to be used as a place to exhibit floral subjects for sale. 
It would not be necessary to have these glass erections more than 12 or 
15 feet high, but they should extend to the very outside boundary, and 
completely encircle the market, and if tastefully designed would be 
interesting objects to look upon from the adjoining houses surrounding 
the square. 

These glass erections I intended to be used not only by the florists 
and nurserymen in the vicinity of London, but by those residing wituiu 
a circle of 20 or 30 miles of London, who, I doubt not, if these erec- 
tions were let at a moderate rent, would gladly avail themselves of this 
depot for the exhibition and sale of their arboricultural, horticultural, 
and floricultural productions; as it has been, and is, in my opinion, 
a great and serious loss to all country nurserymen and florists living 
at a great distance from London, who might be the introdacers of new 
species or varieties of horticultural and floricultural subjects, that 
they have not a place in or near London where they may perpe- 
tually exhibit their valuable novelties, and where the botanist, fiorist, 
naturalist, and amateur may see and admire the wonderful works of 
the great Creator manifested in the vegetable kingdom.—J. W. 
Tomson, F.R.H.S., Florist, Penge. 


WEATHER PREDICTIONS. 
I rrusr your correspondent, Mr. Robson, will pardon me if I point 
out that he has made several important mistakes in his letter on 
page 101. If he had not made these mistakes he would have found 


that the Linton Park observations were not ‘all at variance” with 
the theory I ‘* promulgated.” 

1. Your correspondent has not taken the Linton Park or the ‘‘ Green- 
wich mean temperature of August to October” into due consideration. 

2. He has omitted to notice that there is an important difference 
between the mean rainfall of Linton Park and that of Greenwich 
during the first seven months of the year. This difference renders it 
necessary to raise the limit from 10 inches to about 10} inches when 
applying my law to past years at the former station. 

3. If your correspondent had carefully read the letter of “‘ AatATEUR,” 
at page 85, or my letter in the valuable ‘‘ Meteorological Magazine” 
referred to, he would lave seen that I explained what I meant by the 
expression, ‘‘a remarkably severe winter.” Isaid, “‘ That is, the mean 
temperature must be very considerably below the average.” In this 
respect the winter of 1866-7, as well as that of 1860-61, was not very 
severe. In the winter of 1866-7 the mean temperature of December 
to February inclusive at Greenwich was more than 2}° above the 
average of ninety-nine years, and January to March inclusive 0°.4 
above the average. Mr. Robson must therefore allow me to say that 
he is remarkably inaccurate in speaking of that winter in coanection 
with my law, as “‘ exceedingly severe.” 

4, Mr. Robson's assertion that I used the word ‘ probably” in con- 
nection with my prediction of the winter of 1870-71 is incorrect. I 
spoke with certainty. I said that “it must be remarkably severe.” 
A law which has never failed in a hundred years at Greenwich justifies 
this positive form of prediction. For many ysars past I have, with 
the aid of apparently infallible laws, been able to predict the summer 
as well as the winter seasons. Ina paper read before the Meteoro- 
logical Society in April last I stated a law, according to which the 
summer of 1870 should be warm, and on the 13th of May last I pre- 
dicted in a local paper that the “ coming season must be a good one.” 
Talso stated that the summer would certainly be fine. I commenced 
predicting summer and winter seasons in 1564, and since that time 
have not had one failure with regard to them. These facts show that 
“ line of investigation ” referred to by your correspondent, ‘‘ AMATEUR,” 
has been followed up for seven years, and they prove (in opposition to 
the statement of Mr. Robson) that, as far as summer and winter 
seasons are concerned, there is zo uncertainty in my weather predic- 
tions —Grorcre D. Bruunan, Barnsbury. 


FAILURE OF VERBENA CUTTINGS. 


I uave been much interested in the correspondence in the late 
numbers of your Journal about Verbena cuttings, and I wish to 
endorse the opinion of your correspondent that there has been 
some unusual disease prevalent amongst them this season. 

T am generally successful with Verbenas. 1 ast summer mine 
were the admiration of all beholders, but I fear I shall have no 
show at all this year. ‘he cuttings rooted, and I potted them 
off as usual, but one after another they blacken and die. I have 
now put all the survivors into a nice fresh hotbed, supposing the 
failu:e to be owing to the unusually low temperature for the last 
three months. ‘They do not seem to be much the better of 
the change at present. The healthy ones (chiefly Lord Raglan 
and the commonest kinds) are growing, of course, but the sick 
ones get worse and worse, and will evidently die. : 

in this mild climate (Pembrokeshire) Verbenas have lived 
with us in the open air all the winter, year after year; but, 
alas!sthese happy seasons for our half-hardy favourites seem 
now like grandmothers’ tales of the good old times that used to 
be “once ona time” long ago.—C. J.8. 

[I hope before this reaches “C. J. S.’” that a change for the 
better will have taken place in the Verbena plants, which may 
still be reviving; and, as there is a good deal of time yet for pro- 
pagation, that she will be able to make up her stock to the 
quantity wanted. If it be any consolation for her to know it, 
I may say there seems to be a very general complaint of Ver- 
benas having kept badly this winter, and inquiries for cuttings 
are made in all directions. The cause is, no doubt, what 
“©, J. S$.” justly assigns—viz., the low temperature, and, in 
addition, the want of sunshine; for during the greater part of 
both December and Janzary, and of February up to the present 
time, the sky has been almost entirely sunless; even the sharp 
frosty days were mostly dull, and forcing has only been accom- 
plished at 2 great expense of iuel. In keeping Verbenas through 
this dark period I have, however, never been more successful 
than during the present season, only we do not grow these 
former favourites of the flower garden so extensively as some 
do, and have not so many kinds, chiefly confining our growth 
to three or four varieties. Nevertheless, I have others, and they 
haye all kept well, only they have had a better position than 
they have sometimes had in former years, for this season I had 
an opportunity of giving them a place close to the glass on two 
shelves at the back of a vinery, which was kept a little warmer 
than an ordinary greenhouse, and this elevated position, where 


Febraary 23, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


143 


the air could circulate on all sides of them, no doubt enabled 
them to withstand the destructive influence of the long dark 
period we have just passed through. Had they been, as usual, 
wintered in a cold frame, with only coverings to keep out the 
frost, most likely I should have had to bewa'l the loss of the 
whole, for I find the Geraniums. in boxes, which are here far 
more important than Verbenas, have kept much worse than 
usual, owing to the dull weather and limited heat supplied. I 
have long been of opinion that to keep Verbenas well they must 
be kept growing, for it is no easy matter to start them when 
once they become fairly stunted and diseased. 

My mode of managing them is usually to take off cuttings 
from the middle to the end of August, and to strike them in 
some shady place without heat, so as not to encourage too much 
growth at top. I also use larger pots than most people; the 
size called sixteens in the trade is that which I generally adopt, 
and the cuttings remain in the pots all winter, yielding succes- 
sive batches of cuttings if all go on well, but I have often been 
unfortunate and lost a great many, especially when the pots 
have had to stand some time cn the ground in a cold pit, where 
both heat and a good circulation of air have been wanting. 
Now, although Gazanias and, I believe, Nierembergias will en- 
dure this with impunity, and, in fact, may be covered up for 
weeks, as some of mine have been, Verbenas will not. Warmth 
and a free circulation of air are necessary for them, and what is 
also equally important, insects of allkinds must be kept down, and 
however clean and healthy the plants may appear at the time 
cuttings are taken cff for propagation in early spring, we never- 
theless immerse them in a sort of decoction of tobacco about 
the colour of porter. Immersion for a couple of minutes or 
so will destroy any green fly that may be remaining, and does 
the cutting no harm. A basin or other vessel of this liquid 
always accompanies those putting in spring cuttings. The first 
lot of cuttings was put in on February 6th; at this season they 
are mostly put in in boxes—at least all the kinds propagated to 
any extent, and a four-light frameful of such cuttings, after 
they have been in a week, all look like growing, the heating 
material being merely a mixture of dung and leaves. 

I have often been short of plants to propagate from at this 
season, and our present ample supply is mainly owing to the 
winter stock haying had a more favoured position than usual 
during the dark days. If I had only a few plants, and wanted 
to increase them to the greatest possible extent before planting- 
out time, I would prepare a nice, warm, dung hotbed, with 
suitable soil in it, as if for Cucumbers, and after having dipped 
the Verbena plants in the tobacco water previously described, I 
would turn them out of their pots into this bed, not disturbing 
the ball if it could be avoided, and allowing the plants to grow 
till they completely covered the. bed before taking off any 
cuttings; then any reasonable quantity could be had, for I believe 
much harm is done by cutting a plant too early, and where the 
root has room to grow the top ought to be allowed to do so also. 
This I fear is not ia the power of “C. J. S.” to do, but I advise 
the bath nevertheless, a warm site if it can be bad, and if the 
plants are in small pots, a few of the best might be shifted into 
larger ones, and growth will likely follow; at the same time do 
not remove all the soil from the roots, otherwise time is lost, but 
repot the ball entire, even if there are a great number of plants 
together, and success may yet reward the labour. 


Much has been said on the wintering of plants for the flower 
garden, and the various modes adopted for the purpose; there 
are, nevertheless, plants which can only be kept over winter with 
a much greater amount of means than most amateurs have at 
command. In August beds of Coleus look well, and are de- 
seryedly admired, but the plants are not easily kept over the 
winter without a structure approaching a plant stove in heat; 
Alternantheras are still more difficult to keep ina cool place; in 
fact, they are usually miserable-looking objects in January, and 
many are lost. Fortunately both they and Coleuses can be 
rapidly propagated in spring, and as neither are;wanted very 
early, their propagation may be carried on later in the season 
than that of the Verbena and similar plants. I haye sometimes 
thought of writing an article on kceping bedding plants in winter, 
commencing with those which endure the greatest amount of 
cold, and going gradually upwards to such as require the greatest 
amount of heat; if I did so, J would place Verbenas in a warmer 
temperature than they often receive, for although I have fre- 
quently taken cuttings in spring from plants that have stood out 
all winter, I haye often lost cuttings in a way that I could 
not account for, except on the ground of absence of light, heat, 
and fresh air. With disease, excepting mildew, I have not 
been much troubled; nevertheless, the failures of Verbenas 


towards the end of August, in dry summers, have been so fre- 
quent that I grow comparatively few of them. 

In closing these remarks on this once popular plant, I would 
ask the reason why it affords a much shorter continuance of dis- 
play than it did twenty years ago, when such old kinds as 
Emma, Atrosanguinea, Tweediana, Beauté Supreme, and 
others might be reckoned on as sure to last the whole season ? 
The failure of Verbenas to do so has led me to very much limit 
the number planted, and a visit to any public or private garden 
of importance reveals the fact that this once-popular flower no 
longer holds the place it did, and something more than the diffi- 
culty in wintering it is the cause.—J. Ronson. ] 


WONDERS OF AN AMATEUR. 

I wonver if the proposition laid down in two recent numbers 
of one of your contemporaries (apropos of Camellias) is a correct 
one—namely, that peat and loam mixed together in a pot, 
become, after a certain time, injurious to the plant contained 
in it, by the action of the acid in the former upon the alkali in 
the latter. If so, the authorities on such matters, from Paxton 
down to the -editors of the ‘‘Gardeners’ Dictionary.’ have 
been but ‘blind guides.” In the fourth vol. of ‘* Paxton’s 
Magazine,” 1838, which I took up by chance this evening, I 
see that, of the plants which are represented in the first nine 
coloured plates, we are advised to grow no less than six ina 
mixture of ‘‘ peat and loam,” and in the ‘‘ Gardeners’ Dic- 
tionary,” published exactly tnirty years later, of the first nine 
plants of which the culture is described in detail, we have the 
same obnoxious mixture recommended to us in five cases. 
With such authorities a humble amateur cannot at once im- 
bibe the new theory, while at the same time the extreme and 
undeniable difficulty of growing Camellias makes me grasp at 
any explanation of my failure. 

I wonder why the use of the pot saucer in watering plants in 
pots ig not more insisted upon in gardening manuals. I look 
upon if as not only a usefal, but an indispensable adjunct, 
and especially for two classes of plants—Ist, bulbs, which are 
started in dampish soil, aud are not watered again till their 
shoots appear, such as most of the Iridaceous tribe; and 2nd, 
succulents, which are kept almost dry from October till Feb- 
ruary or March. The soil of the pots which contain plants 
of these two classes, can never be so rapidly or satisfactorily 
saturated as by the use of the saucer. It seems only reagon- 
able, too, that plants which are dried by the action of the 
flue in a conservatory should receive moisture at the end of 
the pot which is nearest the source of heat, and I venture to 
say that anyone who examines the bottoms of pots which 
stand over or near the flue will find, especially after the great 
amount of fire heat which this season has occasioned, that the 
lower portion of the soil where the young roots should be is 
nearly dust dry, while the upper inch or two of the soil is 
saturated with water, and perhaps sour and covered with 
moss. The same principle which induces us to water pots 
from the top when standing out of doors, below the source of 
heat, should direct us to water from the bottom when the pots 
stand above the heating medium. Moreover, a certain tribe of 
plants which grow on hills, such as Primulas, Auriculas, and 
Calceolarias, even in their natural state, what with melting 
snow and mountain streams, derive at least as much moisture 
from below as from above. 

I wonder, too, at many other things, but, being a man of 
business, I have no more time to spend in writing down my 
wonders.— Rusu. 


NOTES MADE DURING A TOUR IN IRELAND. 
No. 6. 
ROCKVILLE, THE SEAT OF THOMAS BEWLEY, ESQ. 


THE splendid service of mail steamboats from Holyhead for 
Dublin land all their passengers at Kingstown, the pretty and 
fashionable Irish seaport, whence they are conveyed by rail to 
Dablin—a distance of ten or twelye miles—through a lovely 
country. Landing at Kingstown, one is very favourably im- 
pressed with the beauties of Ireland; all along the line of rail- 
way there is the beautiful Bay of Dublin, one of the most 
glorious that can be imagined, bounded in the distance by Hove 
and the craggy rocky promontory called Ireland’s Eye, and 
every now and then we catch a glimpse of Dablin herself lying 
placidly sleeping in her misty shroud, with here and there a 
tall chimney or a church tower peeping forth. On the other 
side of the line lies a beautiful country, richly clad, finely 


144 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ February 28, 1871. 


wooded, and studded with numerous pretty villas and well- 
kept gardens. Here, I fancied, as I sped along, will be found 
the retreat of many of Dablin’s rich citizens, and gardeniug 
will be found flourishing. Whilst I was musing thus, the 
train slackened speed a little on nearing the first station. Is 
it Blackrock ? 
shortly informed by my friend Mr. Robertson, the great Mr. 
Bewley in his world-famous gardens. To return to Blackrock 
was, therefore, one of my first duties. 


| Herbstii; 4, Pelargonium Flower of Spring; 5, Parple King 


Taking advantage of a | 


friendly car at the station, the distance—about a mile—of | 


rather uphill road was soon traversed, and I was at the garden 
gates. 

There is at first sight nothing at all imposing in the appear- 
ance of this place. Close to the public road stands Mr. Bawley’s 
residence, having in the front an open space of grass, with 
numerous beds tastefully formed and well filled with the usual 
beddiog materials. This is bounded on two sides by ranges of 
hothouses, giving it a very circumscribed appearance. The 
extent of the place is altogether very limited, yet it is rich and 
full of interest. In every nook and every corner there is some- 
thing worth seeing; the extent of glass houses is very great, 
and some are of very fine construction. 

Mr. Sayers, the very intelligent gardener, being on my arrival 
engaged in showing a company of Irish belles his treasures, I 
had time to cursorily survey the exteriors of the various build- 
ings, the dcors being all securely fastened, and to note some 
of the arrangements of the ribbon borders, &e. One border, 


Verbena; 6, Pelargonium Rose Queen; 7, Centaurea can- 
didissima; 8, Pelargonium Stella, with a tall backing. I was 
here again much pleased with several beds of Pelargonium Amy 


| Hogg, the colour of which in the mass was most charming. 
Yes, Blackrock, where resides, as 1 was very | 


Mr. Bewley has been # great experimental horticulturist. It 
was at his establishment where the system of double-glazing 
the roofs of hothouses was first tiied on a large scale. Greatly 
applauded and recommended as it was for a time, like many 
other new things, it is now condemned and almost forgotten. 
Even at Blackrock little can be said for it. Here, also, were 
erected the grandest of orchard houses, lofty span-roofed houses, 
where the trees—Peaches, Pears, &c.—were planted out and had 
to grow as in the ordinary open-air orchard; but success was 
not attendant, and most of the fruit trees have been removed. 
Vines still cover a portion of the reof. The Pear trees planted 
in another portion of the garden were laden with fine fruit. 
The orchard houses still exist at Blackrock, fine, noble, span- 
roofed houses, two of them, about 60 feet long, joined to either 
side of a broad span-roofed plant-house; but they are directed 
now to another use besides fruit-growing—thkat of ornamental 
plant-houses, for which purpose they are much better adapted. 


| As orchard houses they were far too dark and heavy, fruit trees 


requiring as much light and air as can be given. The middle 
house of this group had a beautiful ground-covering of Selagi- 


_ nella, with a winding path from one end to the other, lead- 


alongside what was once the orchard house, was planted as | 


follows, and I thought it looked very efizctive. Line 1, Ceras- 


tium Biebersteini; 2, Pelargonium Golden Chain; 3, Iresiae | 


ing to the great fernery. In it were many fine plants, loity 
tree Ferns, a very fine Theophrasta 10 feet high, a Dragon’s 
Blood, anid some groups of fine-foliaged Begonias, a large Fan 
Palm, &e. 


" Passing out through some low, narrow, dark rustic passages, 
IT entered the great fernery, the fame of which has spread far 
and near. There is no question about the grandeur and 
magnificence of this house. It is a great square place, 60 feet 
by 48, covered with a donble-glazed glass roof about 10 feet 
high to the bottom of the ridges, there being five spans or 
ridges in all, supported on columns enclosed in pillars of 
rustic stonework and rustic Gothic arches mantled and draped 
with Ferns, Mosses, and the coloured-leaved Begonias, the 
sides being draped in the same way, so that il looks like a 
preat rustic cavern. In intermediate lines with these sup- 
porting pillars are placed tall specimen tree Ferns of majestic 
character, grouped round their base with smaller varieties 
in rustic style. The appearance of the whole is very grand 
but very sombre, rather too much so for showing off the graceful 
forms of many of the beautiful Ferns. It impresses one with 
a certain feeliny of awe, as when inspecting the ruins of a great 
abbey, to which, indeed, this fernery may not inaptly be 
likened. At one end there is a rustic stone staircase giving 
access to a high pathway along the end, whence one can look 
down upon the lovely scene, and from which the tree Ferns 
are seen to great advantage. It is beautiful to look up at a 
majestic Fern; it is much more go to look down into one and 


The Fernery at Rockville. 


to observe the uncoiling of the young fronds. The arrange- 
ment of the house is simple yes noble; there is little crowding, 
and everywhere the Ferns are srowingiin the wildest luxuriance. 
To enumerate, or to give any idea of jthe character or number 
of the noble plants is next to impossible. The tree Ferns are 
wonderfully fine—Cyathea medallaris, with a 12-feet stem and 
fronds 8 feet long; Cyathea dealbata as large ; Cibotium prin- 
ceps, 12-feet stem, very beautiful ; Dicksonia squarrosa, the 
various Alsophilas, &e. Shining like silver amongst the dark 
green of the various Fern fronds stood out the beautiful leaves 
of the Begonias of the Hex type. This served to lighten up the 
whole, and created a pretty feature. It is wonderful how well 
these Begonias succeed planted amongst Ferns on rustic stone- 
work. Never have I seen them look so finely as where planted 
in this way at Rockville. Along the root of this magnificent 
fernery rambled Hoya carnosa, flowering in the greatest luxu- 
riance in all its chaste and waxy loveliness. i p 
There are a great many other houses full of interesting 
plants, as Ferns, numerous Orchids in fair condition, fine- 
foliaged stove plants, Palms, &e., to which I can make no 
more than a passing allusion, but giving Mr. Sayers a world of 
care, and being very creditable to him. There is too much 
glass for the size of the place, requiring too great an expendi- 


February 28, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGK GARDENER, 


145 


ture to maintain it. There are traces here and there of faded 
grandeur, as if at one time more means had been at command 
to keep the wheels moving. Nevertheless, the fernery at Black- 
rock is alone worth a journey to Ireland to see it as it now is. 

In open-air gardening, besides the summer bedding plants 
already noted, which aie to be found everywhere now, there 
are several quaint rustic walks near the boundary walls of 
the garden, the inner side being formed of a series of rustic 
stone Gothic arches like the sides of a railway; from these 
other rustic arches are thrown across the path to the wall 
at every 10 or 20 feet. The idea is pretty good, but as carried 
out it is scarcely bold enough in character to prevent it from 
being called ‘‘toy.”’ These stones and arches, however, are the 
abiding place of a fine collection of British Ferns, not, perhaps, 
so much a collection of varieties as in number, and they looked 
well. Here, also, the Bamboo seemed to do well, and was 
particularly striking in character. 

In another detached small garden were the fruit trees—the 
very trees, as I was informed, of Apples and Pears which had 
formerly been planted in the orchard houses. A line of fine 
pyramid Pears on Quince stocks, 8 feet or so in height, planted 
only 6 feet apart, were bearing very heavy crops of fine fruit. 
I observed Dachesse d’Angouléme, Glou Morceau, Chaumontel, 
Louise Bonne of Jersey, and Marie Louise, as fine as ever I 
haye seen them anywhere. Apples also were unusually fine, 
the crops immense on very little trees, conclusively showing 
tbat, if attention were given, Ireland could become one of the 
finest of fruit-growing countries.—B. 


PORTRAITS OF PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND 
FRUITS. 

AmaryLiis Raynerr (Rayner’s Amaryllis). Nat. ord., Ama- 
yyllidacee. ZLinn., Hexandria Monogynia.—Native of Brazil. 
Flowers lilac; leaves broad, sickle-shaped, and bufi-edged.— 
(Bot. Mag., t. 5883.) 

GuspIoLUs DRAcocEPHALUS (Dragon-headed Gladiolus). Nat. 
ord., lridacee. Linn,, Triandria Monogynia.—Native of western 
Natal, at the foot of the Drachenberg Mountains. Flowers 
lurid green, with lines of dull purple.—(Zbid., ¢. 5884.) 

Cirsium GRanamt (Graham's Cirsium). Nat. ord., Compo- 
site. Linn., Syngenesia equalis.—Native of low valleys in 
New Mexico. Flowers bright crimson.—(I bid., t. 5885.) 

Pococynr Dovcuastt (Douglas’s Pogogyne). Nat. ord., La- 
biate. Linn, Didynamia Angiospermia.—Native of California. 
Flowers purple, white-spotted.— (Ibid , t. 5886.) 

CyYRTANTHERA CHRYSOSTEPHANA (Golden-crowned Cyrtanthera). 
Nai. ord, Acvnthacer. Linn., Diandria Monogynia.—Native 
of Mexico. ** The flowers, instead of being disposed in a dense 
thyrsus, or in axillary cymes, as in most species of the genus, 
are collected into a crown-like corymb at the tips of the 
branches, and are of a bright golden yellow.” —(Ibid., t. 5887.) 

Dove Tickr Liny.— This beautiful plant has the habit of 
the old, well-known, and popular Tiger Lily, L. tigrinum, but 
is abundantly distinct from it as a garden flower on account of 
its double blossoms. The stems, which reach 3 feet high or 
upwards, are furnished with a thin covering of white cobwebby 
hairs, and clothed with numerous scattered lanceolate leaves, 
the lower of which are 4 to 6 inches long, the upper ones 
shorter and broader, and bearing the usual black shining bulbils 
in their axils. The flowers form a fine spreading panicle at 
the top of the stem, but in the smaller and weaker specimens 
the stem was surmounted by only a couple of flowers. In this 
respect the variety quite resembles its type, the weaker bulbs 
produce one or two-tiowered stems, the stronger ones a panicle 
of numerous flowers, varying in number according to the degree 
of vigour. The individual flowers are about 4 inches across; 
but instead of the leaves of ibe perianth forming a single 
series, as in the ordinary Tiger Lily, there are in this double- 
flowered variety no fewer than six series of petaline segments, 
which, for the most part, are opposite, and lie over each other 
in their recurved position like the petals of the hexangular 
Camellias. The colour isa bright orange, densely spotted with 
blackish-purple spots. 

“We are indebted to G. F. Wilson, Esq., of Weybridge, for 
ihe specimen figured, and which was exhibited by bim on the 
3rd of August last, at a meeting of the Royal Horticultural 
Society, when it received a first-class certificate. The bulbs 
were, we believe, imported from Japan by Mr. Ball. 

‘There are some other remarkably fine varieties of the Tiger 
Lily worthy of especial notice. One of these is the L. tigrinum 
Fortunei, introduced by Mr. Fortune from China, and cul- 


tivated by Messrs. Standish & Co. This is remarkable for its 
vigorous growth, and its immense head of flowers, which 
branches out in three successive series from the main stem, 
by which the blooming season is much prolonged. Another is 
the L. tigrinum splendens, introduced to public notice by 
M. Van Houtte, and which in its taller stature and ample 
branching inflorescence bears considerable resemblance to the 
var. Fortunei; but is said to differ somewhat in colour, and 
in the fewer and more prominent spots on the perianth. Both 
are grand additions to the group of hardy bulbous plants.” — 
(Florist and Pomologist, 5 8., iv. 25.) 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 
KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Asparagus, make new beds with two-year-old plants, and fill up 
old beds. Plant out Mazagan Beans trom boxes and pots; sow 
Long-pods. Plant out Cauliflowers from the frames or hand- 
glasses, the latter to have three or four leftin each. Make asmall 
sowing of Celery on ® warm border. Sow Lecks for a principal 
crop. About the second weok in March is an excellent time to 
sow the main crop of Onions. One of the prime objects in 
Onion cultivation ought to be to secure an early harvest, and 
this is best accomplished by elevated beds unmanured, unless 
the soil is very poor. The land should be selected in No- 
vember, generally a plot which has had one scourging crop 
taken off after a good manuring. It is trenched and ridged 
until the early part of March, when, being levelled down, it is 
marked out into beds 42 inches wide, with 15-inch alleys. 
Before the seed is sown the beds are raised 6 inches above the 
ordinary ground level. When the beds have become dry the 
seed is sown, and they are trodden twice over until they are quite 
hard. A very light coating of soil is then strewed evenly over 
the whole. The narrowness of the beds enables the operator to 
weed clean with facility, and without injuring the plants. 1 
bave found that hoeing, by loosening the surface, exposes the 
Onions to the mercy of every storm, and if luxuriant throws - 
them prostrate on the surface. Plants thus situated, having a 
greater depth of soil than usual, grow with a more sturdy 
character than those in highly-manured ground, whilst the 
elevation of the beds enables the warm July sun to penetrate a 
ecnsiderable depth into the earth, slightly checking late 
growth, and, of course, inducing the early formation of bulbs. 
Pot Herbs should now be sown, or plantations made from cut- 
tings. Plant early sorts of Potatoes in a warm situation for 
earlier crops; a few may be first planted in boxes in heat, and 
transplanted to the open ground when they have vegetated. 
Those growing in frames should have air given freely. Sow 
Savoys for an early crop. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 5 

Proceed with pruning and nailing. If any planting still 
remains to be done, let it be performed as socn as the ground 
isina fit state. Do not, as is sometimes done, over-manure; 
it is a great mistake to induce the production of gross, long- 
jointed wood in any stage of the existence of a fruit tree; wood 
of this description never becomes thoroughly ripened, and in 
the case of stone fruits, gum, canker, and premature death are 
sometimes the result, whilst from Pears anything deserving 
the name of a crop is never obtained till the gross habit in- 
duced by planting in over-rich soil is overcome. Ground 
intended for fruit trees should first be drained efficiently, and 
then trenched to the depth of 2 feet, and if the natural soil is 
found to be too poor for the health and growth of the trees, a 
sufficient quantity of fresh turfy loam should be added, but 
rich stimulating manures should not be used, for they are soon 
exhausted, and the trees are left to depend upon the natural 
soil for their support, and when treated in this way never give 
satisfaction. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

Bourbon, Tea, and other tender Roses must not be dis- 
turbed for the present, but as soon as the weather has become 
more favourable let them be pruned, and the beds be manured 
and lightly forked. Roses, however, do not dislike a rather 
firm soil, and care should be taken not to injure their roots by 
forking or digging too much. The best manure for them is 
well-rotted cow dung which should be applied after carefully 
loosening the soil, and an inch or two of fresh mould sprinkled 
over it will obviate any unpleasant appearance it might other- 
wise present if kept near the surface. Auriculas, generally 
speaking, have suffered little from the past severe winter, and 
having braved the weather so well hitherto it would be a matter 
of regret should any collection suffer from lack of a little at- 


146 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ February 28, 1871. 


tention at this season. As they are now beginning to grow 
and to throw up their trusses, they require the greatest attention 
of the cultivator; they must have plenty of air, be moderately 
supplied with moisture, and protected at night from the 
slightest frost or cold easterly winds, when the lights must be 
tilted the reverse way, so that the plants may not receive the 
least check in their growth. On the contrary, if the weather 
be mild they require all the air it is possible to give them. 
A gentle shower of rain once now and then is of great benefit. 
About a fortnight after the roots of the Ranunculuses are 
planted, they swell to their utmost size. While in this state, 
in the event of severe frost setting in, it is advisable to cover 
the beds with some dry litter to the depth of 3 or 4 inches, as 
the tubers are liable to be ruptured by the compression of the 
frozen soil. In the best prepared beds worms are very annoy- 
ing and injurious, particularly in March. Lime water may be 
given with safety; apply it to their workings in the morning, 
and fill up the cavities in the surface of the beds with dry soil, 
which ought to be kept in reserve forthe purpose. In the first 
week of April the plants will be through the ground. The strong- 
growing sorts are sure to lift a large portion of soil on the top 
of their foliage; let this be taken in the hand, broken, and 
carefully placed on the top of the crowns and about the necks of 
the plants. Should the grower wish his flowers to be of a good 
size, a top-dressing of three-year-old cow dung finely sifted may 
be applied round the plants and between the rows to the thick- 
ness of one-fourth of an inch; this has a most beneficial effect 
in keeping ihe beds level, and increasing the strength of the 
plants. Polyanthuses in beds that have been raised by the 
late frosts should be fastened, and a top-dressing of rich ye- 
getable mould given. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 
A general dressing of the climbers should take place im- 
mediately. When it is desirable that they should bloom late 
in the autumn it will be advisable to prune late, even after the 
buds have commenced growing, on the same principle that the 
Moss and other Roses are successfully retarded by a similar 
proceeding. Fuchsias for general decoration, or as single 
specimens on grass, should be brought forth and introduced, if 
there be room, in a warm end of the greenhouse. Those who 
have bottom heat to spare, and desire very large specimens, 
may select some of the best plants, disroot and repot them, 
and plunge them in a bottom heat of 75°. A good compost to 
grow them in is two parts decayed leaf mould or peat earth, 
one part rich yellow loam, and one part horse and cow manure 
in equal quantities, with suflicient silver sand to sharpen it. 
The Hybrid Perpetual, Bourbon, Tea, and other Roses will now 
begin to repay by their beauty the trouble bestowed on them. 
Give weak and clear liquid manure more freely, disbud barren 
shoots, and fumigate early. Some of the forward Cinerarias 
and Pelargoniums may be shifted as requisite, as soon as the 
blooming habit is sufficiently brought on; if done sooner, a 
superabundance of foliage will be the result. 


STOVE. 

Some of the plants which have been blooming for many 
weeks, and which are exhausted, should be cut back and 
removed to a moderate house to break slowly, such as the 
Enphorbia jacquiniefiora, Gesnera lateritia, Geissomeria longi- 
flora, Eranthemum pulchellum, Justicia salicina, Poinsettia 
pulcherrima, and others. These, although not very novel, 
are very useful, and their early flowering next November and 
December depends on early cultivation. A bottom heat will be 
necessary when they are repotted, which will be in about three 
weeks. 

FORCING PIT. 

See that all Hyacinths, Roses, Lilacs, Narcissuses, or, in 
fact, any other forced flowers, are removed from the forcing 
pit the moment the blossoms begin to expand. Retarding will 
soon be every-day business.—W. Keane, 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 
KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Arter the frost alluded to Jast week we have had some 
favourable days for out-door work. Never did we know the soil 
turn up go freely, and be so dry at this season of the year. If 
there is no great change as respects moisture, ihere will be 
plenty of March dust this year for the comfortable depositing 
of the seeds, 

The general routine was very much the same as in the 
last and previous weeks. We put in a good breadth of Peas 


and Beans, trenched the ground, and re-dug and turned that 
intended for Onions and Cairotr. The Celery beds were 
trenched across, so that the dung left in the beds shonld be 
regularly distributed across the quarter. With a little covering 
in the most severe frost our Celery is still very nice, and turns 
out well. The late-planted is rather small but sound. We 
never planted Celery so late as last season. It stood quite 
thickly in the beds in which it was pricked out, as there we 
could give a little water and shade. We could not have kept it 
alive if transferred to wide beds or trenches. We could only 
manage to preserve our earliest, and therefore strongest, Celery 
by shading. Notwithstanding all this contest with the drought, 
we have not had a single bolted or bad stick of Celery this 
season. We attribute this a good deal to the mode of treat- 
ment, and especially to the manner of earthing-up several 
times referred to. If we have done nothing else, we believe 
that we have proved conclusively that the bit-by-bit earthing-up 
of early Celery is the chief cause of its bolting, and thus be- 
coming unfit for table. 

Potatoes.—Besides planting under protection, the ground was 
in a fine state for putting in some of the earliest out of doors, 
the tubers being just sprung nicely, but not too much. If 
planted fully 6 inches deep there would be little danger from 
frost, and there would not be much earthing-up required. 

Besides planting stout Lettuce plants in’the orchard house, 
we have turned ont some thinly between the rows of Potatoes 
in frames that have been planted out lately, after being just 
started in pots. We hope the Lettuces will attain a good size 
before the Potato tops interfere with them. In such early 
Potatoes, nipping out the terminal bud of the shoot when a 
foot or so in height prevents elongation, makes the shoots more 
stubby with laterals, and does not interfere with early tubering. 
Mest of our Lettuces out of doors on the level, though pro- 
tected, like our fine Cabbages in the open quarters, have given 
way before the cold, whilst Lettucces on 1idges, which measure 
say a yard atthe base, with a yard slope on each side, east and 
west, have stood well. The Cabbages that have stood best, as 
already alluded to, are on ridges, and facing the north. There 
is little new in this—the less vigour there is in a plant the 
more frost it will stand uninjured. We are often wise behind- 
hand. We have frequently gone over our forward Cabbages 
at the end of October, and raised them with a spade or 
fork sufficiently to disturb the rocts, and then trodden 
firmly. The check thus given was a great security against 
severe frost. We did not do so this season, or very probably 
we might have saved more of our fine plants, We shall, how- 
ever, soon turn out a lot forwarded in pots. We shall be 
obliged to do so as a matter of safety, as they will not be such 
tempting baits to mice, &c., when they “are in the open air. 
Even though we put a cordon of tar round a frame, we find 
the mice passed it, and made sad havoc of a lot of bulbs inside. 
Well would it be for gardeners to cultivate patience as well as 
increased constant watchfulness. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Here we can add little or nothing to the notices lately given, 
as from a press of other work out-door pruning, &c., has fallen 
a little behind, but there is nothing in that respoct too late as 
yet, as there is no appearance of tne sap moving. See what 
was lately said of Peaches, Vines, Strawberries, &c. 

We potted off young Melon plants, as at present they oceupy 
small space, and we may find room for them before the plants 
are large. Potted off also young Cucumber plants, and turned 
strong young plants into 15-inch pots to produce fruit. In our 
small pit the old plants are still producing a few frnit, and 
some of theni appear likely to go on if we do not work them 
too hard. If they stand until the younger ones bear we shall 
be satisfied. 

Though this is not, perhaps, the right department to treat 
on Cucumbers, we may here state that many readers haye 
asked us how we afiord our Cucumber plants so little root room. 
Well, simply because we want a large quantity of Cucumbers 
in little room, and not strong shoots and parasol-like foliage. 
These are all right enough, and productive enough, too, if one 
can give the plants a roof of 12 or more feet to run over; but 
in a frame or pit of 6 feet or less in width the piants should 
be curbed rather than encouraged in their luxuriance. Our 
little pit is scarcely 6 feet wide, inside measure. There is a 
narrow pathway bebind, and the bed or pit for the Cacumbers 
is not quite 3 feet wide, with two 3-inch pipes in front, and two 
beneath for bottom heat. Even this narrow bed, for such a 
limited space, we find quite large enough for root room, and 
therefore we often plant in pots, as stated aboye, and surround 


February 23, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 147 


the pots with hot tree leaves, keeping the top of the ball several } 
inches from the rim of the pot, earthing-up at times until the 
pot is full, and earthing the bed over with rich light compost, 
and allowing the roots to run over it. Last summer and 
autumn the bed had, perhaps, about half on inch of rich top- 
dressing added every month or so. We have found no plan 
better for keeping up a moderate luxuriance and great fertility 
in little space. Just as the fine large white roots began to ap- 
pear on the surface, a little fresh rich compost was sprinkled 
over them, but what was alluded to last week, as to the matter 
of checks, was carefully attended to. Putting fresh cold soil 
to a plant in a high temperature is often followed by baneful 
results. Were the principle involved in sudden and severe 
checks better understood, there would be less sale for insecti- 
cides and other destroyers of insect vermin. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Here our chief work has been, and will be for some time, 
ground work and turfing. We shall be anxious to have such 
work over by the middle of March at farthest, as then we may 
expect to be little troubled with the turf in summer. There is 
much trouble in getting extra men, who never took up or laid 
a piece of turf in their lives before, to do so at all neatly. 
Much depends on taking up the turf in equal widths, and at 
equal depths, and then.with a line marking the levels it is not 
80 easy to go wrong. Two lads, who had never handled a sod 
before, turfed a piece very neatly the other day. We hope that 
in a few weeks general labourers’ work will be more plentiful. 

Referring to general matters, we will just allude to two things 
requiring timely attention. For sowing the seeds of tender and 
half-hardy plants, & hothouse or a hotbed will be necessary, and 
a bottom heat of from 80° to 90° for the first, and from 65° to | 
75° for the second. All seeds do best in general in rather light 
sandy soil, enriched with a little leaf mould that has been well 
sweetened and aired. A little small charcoal will also be an 
advantage. With large seeds there need be no difficulty, pro- 
vided they are covered with about their own diameter in depth 
of soil. Smaller seeds require more attention, and especially 
such dust-like seeds as those of the Lobelia and Calceolaria. 
It is best to use as little water to such seeds as possible. We 
generally, therefore, drain and fill the pots within an inch or so 
of the rim, using the roughest soil over the drainage, rough but 
finer over that, and finer at the surface, pressing moderately | 
down with a board; and then the soil in the pots is well 
watered, and allowed to stand from ten to twenty-four hours, 
so-that the surface may become sumewhat dry; on this the 
seed is scattered, and a little fine silver sand, or silver sand 
and charcoal dust, sprinkled as thinly as possible over the seed, 
and gently pressed down. If a square of glass with a piece of 
paper or cloth is put over the mouth of each pot, there will be 
next to the certainty of attaining success, keeping the shade on 
until the seedlings begin to show, and then removing the shade 
by degrees. The damp in the pots beneath the seed will gene- 
rally be sufficient to cause germination, without watering, but 
when watering is necessary it should be given by gently sailing 
the surface of the soil in the pot all over, and not from the 
rose of a watering-pot, however fine. Even when seedlings 
are up this sailing with water, in the case of small seedlings, is 
of importance. The simplest plan to adopt is to have an 
oyster shell, or a rounded piece of broken pot, hold it obliquely 
with the left hand against the inner rim of the pot, and pour 
the water from the spout of a small watering-pot upon the 
crock until the water floods the pot without touching the top of 
the seedlings. Water such tender little seedlings overhead with 
a fine rose, and if they are at all close together there will be a 
great risk of their damping or fogging off at the collars. Several 
have asked how there could be such a difference? and we were 
obliged to own here our comparative ignorance. It is one 
thing to note a fact, and quite another thing to be able to tell 
all the reasons why. It is a fact that different results will 
follow from different modes of watering tender seedlings. 
When glass, as stated above, is not handy, a saucer will answer 
the same purpose. Many seeds require this protection before 
they are up as a security from vermin. The advantage of the 
glass square is that you can regulate light to a nicety. 

We meant to have said something about cuttings, but would 
now merely remark that the chief point is to keep the cutting 
growing, so as to suffer as little as possible from its severance 
from the parent plant.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


Edmondson Brothers, 10, Dame Street, Dublin.—Spring Cutalogue 
of Vegetable and Flower Sceds, Garden Inuplements, &e. 


George White, 3, Moss Street, Paisley.—Sclect List of Pansies, 
Pinks, &c. 

‘Portable Plant Protectors, and How to use them.”— Vines and 
Ground Vineries.” By W. Edgeumbe Rendle. London: Simpkin, 
Marshall, & Co. 

W. Clibran & Son, Millbank Nursery, Warrington.—Descriptive 
Catalogue of New and Choice Plants. 

S. Shepperson, Prospect House, Belper.— Cataloyue of Pansies, dc. 

B. J. Edwards, 222, Strand, and 25, Bishopsgate Street Within, 
London.—Spring Catalogue of Flower and Vegetable Seeds, New 
Hybrid Gladioli, &e. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

*,* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely . to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, déc., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 

N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next 
week. 


Books (Rosa). — There is no recent work on Melon culture exclu- 
sively. The fullest and best directions are in our Nos. 197, 199 20), and 
283, which you can have from our office if you enclose Js. 2d. in postage 
stamps with your address. (4A Young Gardener).—* Repton’s Landscape 
Gardening” by Loudon. We do not know the publishers of the other 
work you name. 


Waite AZzALEAS (Julia)—Louise Von Baden, Louise Margottin, Flag 
of Truce, and Iveryana, 


Mowine Macurne (S. F. D.).—Any would answer your purpose. You 
may see specimens at Mr. J. C. Fox’s, Horticultural Agent, Arcade, Royal 
Horticultural Society’s Garden, South Kensington. 


BARKERIA SPECTABILIS CULTURE (D. M.).—Barkerias being plants 
which make thick fleshy roots, and which enjoy a cool temperature, are 
easily injured if the rootsgare confined amongst moss or other wet mate- 
rial. They nevertheless enjoy a copious supply of water during the 
Season of growth, and we have always found them thrive by far the best 
when fastened upon blocks of wood, with but very little moss; the roots _ 
will readily adhere to the wood an’ remain firmly fixed. They may, 
however, be grown in pots if preferred, in which case the pots should be 
quite filled with moderate-sized pieces of charcoal and potsherds, which 
for appearance may be slightly covered with living sphagnum. If 
the roots of your plant show the least sign of decay, remove it to a block 
of wood or piece of cork before it starts into growth, this method being 
undoubtedly the best to ensure the well-being of all the species belonging 


| to this beautiful genus. 


Grass SEEDS FoR 4 Lawn (TZ. H. T.).—For your lawn of a quarter of 
an acre which requires renovating, we should sow Trifolium minus only, 
and 3 lbs. would do it well; this Clover, as you say, stands dry weather 


| well—indeed, with: us better than anything else, and gives a close bottom 


sooner than grass seeds. Do not sow before April, and then during the 
first moist weather, rolling well after sowing. 


EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS LEAVES WARTED (A. Z.).—The small warts or 
excrescences on the under side of the foliage are very common on the 
mature leaves, but we think the leaves have been infested with red spider, 
which may be destroyed by syringing or sponging them with a solution 
of 2 ozs. of soft soap to the gallon of water, applied at a temperature of 
140°, or if you sponge the leaves, which is better, use it at 120°. 

Wirine A Vinery (Croydonian)—The best plan is to have the wires 
crossing the rafters, or lengthwise of the house, and 9 inches apart. You 
will need an angle iron at each end secured to the end timbers, and a 
piece of ordinary bar-iron, five-eighths of an inch by a quarter of an inch, 
at every rafter, or 3 to 4 feet, and these will need to be supported by 
hangers or holders screwed into the rafters, and secured top and bottom 
by screws to the uprights orrafters. The angle plates and the smaller 
iron supports will need to have holes drilled 9 inches apart, through 
which the wires are to be drawn. Wach end of the wires should be pre- 
pared to receive a thumb-screw, by means of which the wires can be 
tightened. No. 10 wire is commonly used, but we employ No.6. Any 
of the firms advertising in our columns could supply yon. We cannot 
name one in preference to another. The wires should be fixed 14 to 
16 inches from the glass. i 


DevurziA TREATMENT (Idem).—We can only account for your plant 
beivg in such a poor plight from the high temperature in which it is 


-kept, and from its being in a bad state befcre forcing was commenced. 


Place it in a house with a temperature of from 45° to.50°, keep it supplied 
with water, and afford it a light airy position. After flowering, or in 
April or May, remove it to a cold pit or cool airy house, and in May place 
it out of doors in an open situation. Keep it duly watered in tummer, 
and before seyere weather sets in place it in a sheltered position, the 
pots plunged in ashes. About Christmas turn the plant out of the pot, 
remove any old Joose soil, and pot again in a pot large enough to hold 
the roots. Introduce it into a house with a temperature of from 45° to 
50°, and the plant will flower in six or eight weeks. This is all we do to 
our plants, and we have had them in flower from the beginning of 
January, they being placed in heat at the end of November. Light turfy 
loam with a little Jeaf soil and sand grow them well. 


PLANTING Our CaLcEonsnras (A Constant Subscriber)—The beginning 
of Apri] is sufficiently early to transplant them into beds from under the 
hand-glass, and even then they will require protection at night and in 
frosty duys. If you can afford them protection from frost, you may trans- 
plant them any time after this in mild weather. 


SHort Stems or HyscinrvHs AND TuLirs (Idem).—The shortness of. 
the spike of the Hyacinth may be owing to the bulb, but the spike may 
have plenty of flowers and yet be short, from the plants not having had 
sufficient heat for their full development. The watering and soil would 


148 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ Febtuary 23, 1871. 


not cause a short spike, though any deficiency in either respect would 
cause it to be poor. Tulips potted in September would flower at Christ- 
mas, if they had a temperature of from 50° to 55° a month or six weeks 
previously, and were early-flowering sorts. They would flower now with 
a temperature averaging 45°. 


CaAsES FOR OUR VoLUMES (Maida Hill).—We only supply the cases. 


PLANTING-oUT TACSONIA MOLLIssSIMA (Amateur, Dublin).—The plant 
turned out last November in a conservatory border ought to be now ina 
state of growth. It is not usual for it to die down in winter. We have 
one in a greenhouse, and it is now very vigorous and growing freely, 
having made shoots several feet long since Christmas, and it is showing 
bloom at every joint. We only planted it Jast May, and it flowered and 
fruited in the past reason. We should say your plant is dead. 

DissoLvine Bones (Idem).— You will require a weight of sulphuric acid 
equal to one-half that of the bones. The finer the bones are, the sooner 
will they dissolve. Dissolved bones are applied to the soil mixed with 
soil or ashes, and mixed with wateras a liquid manure. You will need 
to dilute with fifty times as much water as the acid employed, calculat- 
ing by weight, a gallon of water weighing 10 lbs. 8 bushels of dissolved 
bones, irrespective of the acid, are a good dressing pér acre. 


LEAVES FoR LEAF Movutp (Idem).— The time required for leaves to 
decay depends on whether they are kept dry and left undisturbed. If 
laid in a heap and turned over twice or thrice they will be reduced in 
twelve months. We use our leaves for hotbeds,and by autumn again 
they are sufficiently decayed for potting purposes. If undisturbed we 
have known two and three years elapse before the leaves were fit for mix- 
ing with soil. We sift ours through an inch-riddle, and when the majority 
pass that, the leaves are, in our opinion, sufficiently decayed. 

CAMELLIAS NOT FLOWERING (A Subscriber).—We cannot account for 
your plants not flowering, as they set buds but fail. only we think the 
roots are in a bad state. We would, at the end of March, turn them 
out of the pots, pick away any old roil that yon can without injuring 
the roots, and repot in a compost of the top ineh, or not more than 
14 inch, of a pasture where the soil isa good light loam. Chop it up 
small though not very fine, and pot with this, without admixture, rather 
firmly, taking care to leave no hollows. Place the plants in a house with 
a temperature of 50°, watering so as to keep the soil moist, and when 
they are growing water abundantly. Maintain a moist genial atmosphere, 
and affird slight shada from the bright midday sun. Keep the plants 
there until the growth is complete and the buds are set, then remove 
them to a cool airy houre; and if you afford, from November to April, a 
temperature of 40° to 45° from fire heat, we think you will have a fine 
bloom. Drain the pots well. Do not place the plants out of doors in 
summer, 


Ivy Prunine (C. 4. S.),—-In prunin? Ivy against a wall we cut clean-in, 
removing every leaf, but we do not think it safe to do this until April, 
which we consider the best month for cutting Ivy. It makes 2 much 
closer growth when cut-in with the shears than when pruned with a 
knife, some green leaves being left. 


Leaves Buicutep (S. H.).—The leaves of the plant you describe as a 
Daisy, but which we do not recognise, are infested with thrips, which 
may be destroyed by fumigation with tobacco, or immersing the plants 
in a decoction of tobacco. This is made by pouring a quart of boiling 
water over 1 oz. of tobacco, afterwards covering it up and letting it stand 
until cool. Of course, you must not dip the put and roots. Ont of doors 
the plant will show the effects of thrips, but con hardly suffer from it 
except in very dry weather. 

Suruzs ror A Mound (Wm. D., jun.).— The outer margin or foot we 
should plant with Berberis Aquifolium, and then common Laurel, with 
a few Portugal Lanrels, Lilacs, Laburnums, Syringas, and double Thoins, 
interspersed at, say, 15 feet apart, and the crown we would have Austrian 
Pine. These are not expensive. The Berberis may be planted 4 teet, 
and the others 6 feet apart. 


Vines TENDRILLED BUT FRUITLESS (Old Subscriber).—We have no 
doubt that the reason why your vigorous Vines in pots show tendrils 
instead of bunches, is owing to the Vine wood being imperfectly ripened, 
very likely from growing in shade, instead of full exposure to Jight. We 
consider it would be anything but safe to cut the Vines back now, with 
any hopes of their making fresh wood and yielding fruit this season. We 
saw this done once with established Vines that lost their first crop 
though an accident, but it did no good as respects fruit, and nearly 
ruined the Vines. There are two modes of treating your strong Vines 
—If not too far advanced, you might prune them back to n good shoot 
near the base, and grow that as a single cane in summer to fruit next 
year; or you may stop your present side shoots—say at 18 inches long, 
and have them well ripened before the autumn. We are sorry that you 
have failed after so long a preparation, and especially as you say the 
wood was well ripened. We have our doubts as to the maturity. Did 
you pot the Vines in autumn or before forcing? They should have no 
fresh potting after July or August, so that the pots should be full of roots. 
The treatment is correct, only we would not let Vines have 70° during the 
day until the first month were past. In sunless weather 60° by day would 
be enough, and 50° to 55° at night, beginning with from 45° to 50°. We 
like the reds to be twisted round, though if care be taken in the breaking, 
the plants should do very well fastened to a rod 5 feet long. 

PROPAGATING VINEs (Idem).—It matters little how the plants are raised. 
We prefer using single eyes with an inch or go of wood on each side. 
Eyes inserted in December and January, and receiving all the time hot- 
bed treatment, may be got by repeated shiftings into 12, 15, or 18-inch 
pots by midsummer, then ripened, exposed in autumn in the shade, 
and started in November or December to fruit early; but there must be 
close unremitting attention. Another mode is to put in cuttings or buds 
in spring, and get the plants established in 6-inch pots in summer, rest 
in winter, and cut down, grow, repot, and ripen early the second summer, 
giving two Summers’ preparation instead of one, This mode takes more 
time, but less labour and attention. 


CLIMBERS TOR A ConspRvAtoRY (E. C, Iv.),—For growing in pots we 
have found the following answer:—Brachysema acuminata, Cobiea scan- 
dens variegata, Dolichos lignosus, Habrothamnus elegans, Hibbertia 
volubilis, Jasminum grandiflorum, Kennedya variegata, K. inophylla 
floribunda, K. Marryatt« ; Lapageria rosea, Passiflora Comte Nesselrode, 
P. Impératrice Eugénie; Rhynchospermum jasminoides, and Sollya 
linearis. The size of pots depends on the plants; they need shifting 


from one size to the other until they are in their full size, which, for the first 
season need not exceed 9 inches in diameter, and the next 11 inches; and 
a 13-inch.pot we consider quite large enough for the third and subsequent 
seasons, the ball being reduced at the annual spring potting. 


GLAZING GREENHOUSE RooF (J. Smith).—A rough plate or fluted glass 
roof will do admirably for a greenhouse, and requires no shading in sum- 
mer, and gives plenty of light in winter; but we prefer the front lights to 
be of clear sheet glass, so as to see through them. 


Aspect ror Guass Structures (W. H. F.).—The 10 yards freely ex- 
posed to east, west, and vorth, are excellent for glass houses, either for 
fruit or flowers. For the other 10 yards, more or less blocked-in to a 
height of 25 feet, we would advise covering with a glass roof, and devot- 
ing that space to Ferns and fine-foliaged plants. The plants indicated 
would do well, but if you prefer fruit and flowering plants, we do not 
think you would succeed in the shaded part. Plants would keep longer 
in blcom there, but would not grow and come into bloom so well. 


DisBUDDING VINEs (M.).—We are a little in doubt whether you refer to 
Vines in pots, or to Vines growing in the usual way; but in either case 
when you secure as many fruit-bearing shoots as you wish, and a few 
others, as may be wanted for future wood, it is well to rub off the extra 
shoots. On the rod system, leave another for rods; on the spur system, 
leave enough, though not fruitful, for future spurs where wanted. Fruitful 
Vines require a great deal of rubbing off. 

FLOWER GARDEN PLAN (dn Earnest Reader).—For the scroll beds we 
prefer Christine Pelargonium for the centres, and the other beds as pro- 
posed, dotted with Bijou. Both of the proposed modes would look well, 
but we think Bijou and Iresine Lindeni would contrast better. We also 
like very much the proposed arrangement for the border, only we would 
hint that you may have the Perilla of any height, but cannot so well top 
the Ageratum ; and as the Berberis, &c., behind will do little more than 
make a background, we should be inclined to place the Perilla behind the 
Calceolaria, and the Ageratum behind Stella Pelargonium. 


CUCUMBER-HOUSE FartturRES (An Old Subscriber, Richmond).—A bed 
34 feet wide, with a depth of 18 inches, is quite room enough for the roots 
of Cucumbers that you grow in the front of your house. It is quite 
possible to have too much bottom heat, but it is just as possible that the 
evils you complain of are the consequence of the heat being too dry, and 
hence the baked appearance of the soil next to the slate, &c. Now, 
supposing vou had a chamber covered with slate, and covered the slate 
with 2 or 3 inches of rough rubble, and had upright drain-pipes stand- 
ing in that rubble before you putin the soil, by pouring water down the 
drain-pipes, and having a stick in several, witn a ball of moss fixed at 
the end, you could always judge of the dryness or moisture of the rubble. 
We haye nothing to say against chambers, but the roots should never 
come in contact with the dry covering. Where pipes are used for bottom 
heat, there is no simpler and better mode than that frequently recom- 
mended by Mr. Fish—namely, to surround the pipes with open rubble. 
cover slightly with the same, and then make the bottom of the bed with 
clean gravel, and by upright pipes, as above, have the means of damping 
the rubble and gravel, and yet not do so too much. 

Prouninc Yew TREES (An Old Subscriber).—The beginning of April is 
the best time to do this, and you may prune to any extent without 
fear of the tree not putting out shoots from the thick bare stems. The 
fresh shoots made this year we would not cut, but in the april of the 
following year we would cut off any irregularities of growth. and in sub- 
sequent years clip in May, and the tree will grow sufficiently to give 2 
nice feathery appearance—very much grander than that close stiff 
formality resulting from cutting in August when the growth is complete. 
It is well, however, to go over the tree in August, and witha knife remove 
any irregular growths. 

Sorts (4 Subscriber).—1, “ Strong turfy loam” is the top 2 or 3 inches 

of pasture where the soil, from the absence of sand or gravel, is close, and 
overlies a clay subsoil. 2, ‘Hazel loam” is a medium-textured loam, 
not light-sandy nor yet heavy-clayey, and of a hazel colour—brown streaks 
through yellow. 3, ‘‘Sound deep light loam,’ we presume, is a soil not 
very light, yet more sandy than a clayey loam, but more retentive of 
moisture than sandy soil, and of some depth. 4, Alluvial soil is that of 
freshwater deposits, forming in the course of ages the rich soil of valleys. 
5, Peat is vegetable matter reduced to soi], and is found on moors, and is 
covered with Heath or Ling. That on high ground is peat, as used by 
gardeners, and is fullof fine particles of white sand. 
‘ VARIEGATED BEDDING PELARGONIUMS (Maria Henderson).—We pre- 
sume yon mean Gold and Silver Tricolors only. Then, as you exe!nde 
new kinds, of the former.Mrs. Pollock, Sophia Cusack, Lucy Grieve, 
Sophia Dumaresque; of the latter, Mabel Morzis, Italia Unit», Prince 
Silverwings, and Glen Eyre Beauty. 

Turnip Sowine (A Beginner).—Your proposed plan ought to produce a 
good crop, if the Turnip fly allow you to have a good plant. 

Musxroom Bep (Ad. D.).—As the beds ave to be on the floor, we would 
have a walk of 2 feet or 80 inches down the centre, and beds 9 feet long and 
vather more than 4 feet in width. Our shallowest beds we would haye 
about 12 inches deep in front, und from 15 to 18 inches deep at back. For 
winter work we would haye them a little deeper, and depend on surface- 
covering to keep up the necessary heat. Now, there are many ways of 
making such beds. Collect the horse droppings with nearly an equal por- 
tion of short Jitter for a week or ten days, and lay them in any place, not 
too thickly, where no rain will fall on them. Then add a barrowload or 
two of dry soil, mix all together, and make this the base of the 9-feet bed. 
Beat it firmly together, and it will heat very moderately. Then every second 
day add the droppings, and the same amount of short, dryish litter all 
over, tread or beat, and then put a little dry soil over. Continue the pro- 
cess until the necessary height is secured, as referred to above, for the 
diff-rent seasons. By this plan as will be perceived, the bed will never 
become very hot, and the bulk of the manure will be fresh—full of nitro- 
genous matter—and, therefore, capable of carrying a heavy crop of Mush- 
rooms. 

HuADING MAIDEN PeAcu Treks (Probo).—The trees should be headed 
down early in March to within five eyes from their base ; or, if the buds 
are wide apart, cut back to an eye not more than 6 inches from the 
junction of the shoot with the stock. You will secure five shoots—two 
for each side, and one fora leader. Bréhaut’s ‘‘ Modern Peach-Pruner” 
is the best work of the kind. It may be had by post from our office if 
you enclose 8s, 8d, in postage stamps with your address. 


February 23, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND OOTTAGE GARDENER, 


149 


PLANTING GLADIOLUS SPAWN (Amateur).—Plant about the middle of 
March if the ground is in good working order, having had it previously 
well turned up to a depth of not less than 15 inches. If the soil is clay, 
or otherwise unsuitable, it should be removed to the depth of 18 inches, 
and if the subsoil is wet, take out a further depth of a foot; then fill 
up with any kind of rough material, as stones, brickbats, &c., and cover 
the drainage with stable litter, throwiag in good soil enriched with 
leaf soil and well-decomposed manure. If the soil is wholly bad, prepare 
an artificial compost of two parts turfy loam—all the better if the soil 
inclines to a sandy peat—one part sandy peat, and one part well-rotted 
manure. Chop the turf up pretty fine, mixing all well together, put in 
18 inches deep of this compost, and cover the bed with 6 inches of soil. 
The bed should be raised 9 inches above the surrounding level. Prepare 
them at once, and in a fortnight it will be advisable to plant. Divide the 
offsets into two sizes, the large and small; plant the former in rows 
6 inches apart, and 4inches apart in the rows. Draw the drills 3 inches 
deep, and cover the bottom with sand, put in the offsets firmly, covering 
each with sand, and draw the soil over them. The smaller offsets may 
be planted in the same way, but much more closely together. Water 
freely in dry weather, and overhead in the evenings of hot days. 


BEDDING CALCEOLARIAS (Idem).—It is not advisable to place those that 
have been wintered in a cold frame in a hotbed at this or any season. If 
they are too close together thin out every alternate plant and row, and 
replant in a cold frame. 

CLIMBERS FOR A PorcH (J. S, S.).—No plants will produce such a good 
show of flowers on an east aspect as Roses, and we advise Russelliana 
(Multiflora) and Dundee Rambler (Ayrshire). These will be sufficient, 
one being planted on each side. 


EDGING FOR KitcHEN GARDEN WALKS (R. S.).—We do not think the 
Saxifrage would suit, nor yet Thrift. London Pride (Saxifraga umbrosa) 
would no doubt answer, but we should prefer next to Box the Bush 
Alpine Strawberry. Ivy does well, but is very troublesome to keep in 
order ; the most suitable for edgings is Hedera Helix poetica, or common 
Wood Ivy. U.tauricais also good. The Fern so full of ripe spore-cases 
is Lastrea glabella, and the pale green spare-looking kind is Asplenium 
flaccidum. 


Croupine Grass (7. U. U.)—You may “muffle” the glass of your 
fernery by dotting the inside with thick whitening wel! sized. Apply it 
by the end of a large painter’s brush. 

PLANTING Porators (C. C.) —Such large varieties should be planted 
9 inches below the surface. Use decayed dung; if you put it into the 
trench let it be below the sets, See what is said to-day about the Bovinia. 


PLANTING PaTERsON’s Boyrnra Potato (C. P.).—If your ground is very 
good loamy soil allow quite 42 inches between the rows, and 18 inches 
set from set. But if you decide upon alternately planting with a first- 
early sort, to dig out of the way of the Bovinias before the latter “ be- 
come very large in the top,” then 50 inches would not be too much to 
allow between the rows. Hogg’s Early Coldsteam (round) and Myatt’s 
Early Prolific Kidney are to be preferred for quite early use, and I have 
often thus planted alternately late coarse-foliaged and first early kinds on 
my ridge-and-trench system, sowing a pinch of early white Turnips 
daily on the site from whence I dug the young Potatoes, with very good 
results. If the Jate Mr. Paterson had taken me as a ‘friend in council,” 
I should have advised him at this time of day not to have introduced his 
Boyvinia to the public. By so doing he retrograded to Ox Noble, Farmer’s 
Glory, Mangold Wurzel Potato, and the Stoker and Nigger set, the like 
of which, as some of my own recent seedlings, I have just relegated to 
the copper in order to make quite sure that they will not be handed 
down to posterity ; because in 1841.1 was taught a valuable lesson by the 
pigs, by giving them Farmer’s Glory and Birmingham Blues for breakfast. 
They fought over the trough containing the ‘‘ Brummagems,” and turned 
up their noses at the former till not one of the latterremained. That 
proved a death blow to the Glory and all its class in my opinion. If you 
boil some Paterson’s Boyinia and Victorias, and fill two troughs of each 
respectively for the pigs to choose from, they would for preference con- 
sume the Victoria first ; and as the Victoria is a much larger yielder than 
the old Birmingham Blue, and withal nearly 2s good in quality, let me 
advise you to cultivate it in preference to the Bovinia, on the understand- 
ing that the Victoria would not yield so large n bulk as the latter, although 
having a greater amount of fattening properties.—RoBERT FENN. 

Name oF Fruit (C. C.).—Early Nonpareil. 

NAMES OF PLANTS (Grogee Bysails).—1, Pteris aspericaulis, var. tricolor ; 
2, Adiantum formosum ; 8, Cheilanthes myriophylln; 4, Polystichum an- 
gulatum. (7. B. W.).—1, Cheilanthes Sieberi ; 2, Doodia caudata; 8, Po- 
lystichum aculeatum; 4, Asplenium lucidum; 5, A. flaccidum. (Penzance). 
—8, Grevillea rosmarinifolia. The two others were not in bloom, and 
were not identified by us from the leaves. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


OUTRAGES on PRIZE POULTRY—HOW SHOULD 
FOWLS BE HANDLED? 


THE accounts given by Mr. Cresswell and Mr. Will as to how 
their poultry have suffered ought to secure the attention of all 
interested in poultry matters, with the view of endeavouring to 
find out the perpetrators of the outrages, if such there be. I 
can hardly fancy that a person fond of poultry, or who has any 
taste for the fancy, could be so base as to disfigure a bird on 
his chance of winning. Now, I must candidly say that I believe 
the blame lies with the committees of poultry shows in not 
selecting proper persons to unpack and pen the birds. I am 
now becoming an old exhibitor, and, of course, have been at 
many shows, and I frequently found the committees had en- 
gaged to unpack poultry a man or men who had no idea how 
to handle a bird—no, not more than a tom cat. 


Not many months ago I saw the clearance of a poultry show 
after the show was closed, and I noted how the birds were 
taken out of the pens. As soon as the packing began, the cry 
and cackle were general all through the show. All the birds 
seemed alarmed. Four men seemed to have undertaken the 
job with the assistance of several exhibitors. The hampers 
were drawn out from under the pens all in hurry-scurry. 
“Now, Jack, look sharp!” and Jack did look sharp, for no 
sooner was the pen open than Jack made a grasp at a Game 
cock—tail and leg together—of course, feathers had to come 
with the bird, but not all of them, for there was a handful left 
in the pen. The Hamburghs fared no better from their dis- 
position to fly about ; but one old Dack seemed not to ke taken 
out in such an unprofessional manner. She was taken by the 
leg, but she would persist in spreading out her wings; so that 
was no way to bring herout. The next grab was to take hold of 
the wing, and by that means she was dragged out, and tumbled 
into the hamper. This is no common occurrence. 

I consider that no subject connected with poultry requires 
more attention and discussion than the way in which different. 
kinds of poultry should be handled—that is, some of our judges 
or exhibitors might state in the Journal how to take birds out of 
a hamper and place them in the pens, for there seems to be- 
some art in managing this properly. Just observe how quietly 
our judges handle a Game cock. How do they take him out of 
a pen, and without disturbing a feather ? 

A few hints from exhibitors will not be out of place, and I 
fancy the managers of poultry shows would like information. 

In conclusion, I just put the question, Which is the best way 
to take out of a pen the Goose, Turkey, and Duck, &c.? Should 
the legs, wings, or head be the place to take hold of 9—R. D. 


JUDGES CLAIMING BIRDS AT POULTRY 
SHOWS. 


Permit me, through your Journal, to call the attention of 
poultry exhibitors to the unfairness of permitting the Judges 
to claim birds before the shows are opened to the public. 

Hearing there would be a good collection of birds at Wolver- 
hampton Exhibition on the 3rd inst., I went there to see if 
there were any pens I should like; and knowing, from previous 
experience, the necessity of intending purchasers getting in as. 
early as possible, I was on the spot before the doors were 
Opened, and was the second person in the hall. My attention 
was taken by a pair of Dark Brahma hens, and I hastened to 
the Secretary’s office to purchase them. It was not then open, 
but I waited till he came, and was told the birds were sold, 
much to my astonishment, as I had been the first to claim 
them legitimately. Asking the purchaser’s name, that I might 
treat with him, I was informed he was one of the Judges, and 
that he had claimed them before the opening of the show. I 
think this is anything but fair to the public, and trust you will 
insert this letter, that poultry fanciers may endeavour to pre- 
vent the repetition of such an injastice.—Jamzs Watts, Hazle- 
well Hall. 


EXHIBITING CARRIER PIGEONS. 


I qurre concur in the remarks of Colonel Hassard in page 112, 
that the exhibiting of Carriers in pairs is disadvantageous alike 
to the promoters of shows and to exhibitors. At any period of 
the year save the winter months few breeders would be induced, 
even for the honour of prize-winning, to break their pairs as 
mated together, which in all probability would be done so thet 
they would be no match in colour or other properties for success- 
ful competition. 

I have been requested to show at the forthcoming Colchester 
Exhibition where the birds are to be shown in pairs, but having 
commenced pairing for this year’s breeding I am compelled to 
decline doing so. Had the birds been shown singly I should. 
have entered, as, out of a lot, some one or two might have been 
sent that at the time had not commenced to breed, but to part 
pairs and remate for showing is quite out of the question. 

Carrier classes are generally well filled, and frequently self- 
supporting from the amount received in eniry fees, and at all 
shows that rank of any importance there should be four classes— 
viz., Black cocks and hens separately, and the same with Duns. 
or any colour; and why not represent the Blues, which I fear 
from lack of encouragement have not progressed of late years as 
the others ? 

May I take this opportunity of informing Carrier fanciers that 
our schedule of the Spalding Show for next June’s competition. 


150 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ February 23, 1871. 


‘comprises five classes in single birds, instead of two only as here- 
tofore? Though the Committee are aware the height of summer 
is not a time to expect the fullest entry, they anticipate no loss 
by the increase of the classes. I hope Colonel Hassard will put 
in an appearance here.—Witt1am Massy, Spalding. 


TORQUAY POULTRY SHOW. 


Ir must be a source of gratification to a remarkably attentive Com- | 
mittee to have found so excellent a collection of birds as that brought 
together at this Show, held from the 15th to the 17th inst., as well as 
an attendance of visitors that has rarely been equalled at any poultry 
show in the west of England. Mr. Beachey, of Fluder House, Kings- 
kerswell, has proved himself an able secretary, and the present high 
position of the Torquay Show is attributable in no small degree to 
his indefatigable efforts. Messrs. Turners’ exhibition pens were a 
<lecided improvement on the arrangements of last year, and the ex- 
pression of satisfaction among the visitors was general. 

The display of Grey Dorkings was excellent, and it is very rarely 
these classes are throughout so well filled. The White Dorkings were 
also remarkably good. Of the Cochins the White were certainly the 
best shown, the majority of the Buffs being evidently suffering from 
over-exhibition. At the show of last year the Dark Brahmas were the 
first feature of the exhibition, but this year the entry was not of nearly 
equal quality. A very large number of Light Brahmas were entered, 
a few of which were very superior, but the bulk were quite overshown. | 
Mr. Pares, of Guildford, won the silver cup with his well-known 
pen. Spanish were good throughout, but the rigour of the last few 
months had told most severely on the combs of many of these birds. 
Never was there a better display of French Fowls seen at any previous 
English show, and the really faultless condition, and excellent health 
in which they were shown, proved they were perfectly acclimatised. 
Ducks were all good classes, the Variety class especially so. The prizes 
were awarded as follows :—Viduat Whistlers first prize, Buenos Ayrean 
second, a grand pen of Carolinas third, and Mandarins fourth prize. 
The Selling classes were very large, and as most of these entries were 
worth far more than the restricted price, as stated in the catalogue, a 
very large sale was effected. 

The Pigeons were not so numerous as was anticipated, but this 
could be easily accounted for by the fact of several shows being held 
simultaneously. So good, however, were some classes, that every pen 
was favourably noticed by the Judge. The rivalry to secure the silver 
cup offered to the best exhibitor of Pigeons was very keen, and excited 
much public interest, the two principal aspirants being Mr. Taylor and 
Mr. Yardley. the latter, though successful, being so very closely run 
as to win only by a single point. 

Dorgines.— Coloured, except Silver-Grey.—1, 8, and Cup for best pen of pouliry 
shown by residents in Devon, Somerset, or Cornwall, L. Patton (Grey). 2-1. 
Martin. 4, Mrs. Wollocomhe. he, G. Whitcombe; H. Pickles, jun. c, R. W. 
Beachey. Silver-Grey and White.—1, Mrs. E, Williams (White). 2, R. H.J. 
Gurney. 3, W.E. George. 

Cocurins.—Cinnamon and Buff.—1. Miss J. Milward. 2, W. F. Checkley. 3, 
R. Harris. 4, J. Watts. _c. Mrs. Wollocombe; W.Masland. Any other Variety. 
—1l. J. Sichel, 2,8.A. Wyllie. 8, C.F. Wilson (Partridge). 4, F. Wiltoa (Black). 
he. W. E. George (White); 1. H. Dawes. c, J. K. Fowler. 

Braumas.—Dark.—1, J. H. Dawes. . 2, J. Dove. 3, Rey. J. Bowen. 4, J. 
Sichel. Light—1 avd Cun for best pen of Light Brahmas, J.Pares. 2.an13, A. 
O. Worthington. 4.T.A.Dean. 5,J.R.Rodbard. he, C. W. Croft. c, F. Crook. 

SpanisH —l, H. Beldon. 2,— Allsopp. 8,H.Lane. 4,J. Watts. c, B. Jones; 
Howard & Nichols. 

FrencH Fowts (Houdans, Ia Fléche, and Créve-Ceur).—1, J. Sichel. 2, F. 
Brewer. 8, W. Burrows. 4, H. Beldon. he. C.H. Smith; Rev. N. J. Ridley; 
W. Dring. c,. Major Irving (2); Rev N.J. Ridley. 

Hampoureus —Gold and silver-spangled.—!, H Beldon. 2, H. Pickles, jun. 
8, Ashton & Booth. 4, Lady V n. he, H. Pickles, jun.; Miss B. Browne: T 
Ogden; N. Barter. c, H. Beldon; H. Pickles, jun: Gold and Silver-pencilled. 
—iand he, H. Pickles, jun. 2, N. Barter. 8, H. Beldon. 4, Rev. A. T. Willett. 

Powis (Any variety).—l, D. Mutton. 2 and 3, H. Beldon. 4. T. Dean. 
he, W. Boyes: H. Pickles, jun.; M. Nicholls; D. Mutton; W. Gamon. ¢, A. 
Crnttenden; W. Boyes 
__GamE.—Black and other Reds.—1, 4, andhe, W.Boves. 2,S8.R.Higham. 3,8. 
Matthew. c.W.H.Stacg; J.T Browne; R.Stork; E. Bell. Any other Variety. 
1 andihe, S. Matthew (Duckwing). 2, J.T. Browne (Duckwing). 8 and 4, 
Boyes (Duckwing). 

Banrams.—Game.—l. FE. Cambridge. 2, R. Swift. 3 and 4, Withheld. Any 
atier Varicty.—1, E. Cambridge (Black). 2, H. Beldon. 3, S. & R. 
4, M.T.eno (Laced). he, R Coath (Black): H. Yardley. c, W. Boyes ( 

Ducks—Rouen.—1 and 4, L. Patton. 2, J. K. Fowler. 3,S. R 
c,Mrs.M.Seamons. Aylesbury.—l and 8, Mrs. M. Senmons. 2,J. K. 
4, T. FE. Hawken. Any other Variety—l and 4, M. Leno (Viduata W 
and Mandarin Ducks). 2, W. E. George. 8, Rev. W. Sergeantson. fic, W. 
Boyes (Black East Indian) (4): G. S. Sainsbury (Black East Indian); 
Fowler. c, Mrs. M. A. Hayne (Black East Indian), 

ANY OTHER VARTETY.—1, Rey. W. Sergeantson. 2, W. Wildey (Andalusian). 
3. W. Boyes (Sultans). 4. H. Beldon. he, Hon. J. Massv (Malay); ) Llewellyn 
suds) W. Wildey (Andalusian). c, J. Hinton (Malay); Rey. J. Ridley 
(Leghorn). 

SpuuixG Crass.—Cock.—l. H. Lloyd, jun. (Cochin). 92, Miss E. Browne 
(Spanish). 8. R. W. Beachey (Brahma). 4, J. H. Nicholls (Q»ochin). he, FR. 
Reldon: H. Pickles, jun. (Poland); A. C. Travers (Game); R. Pile (Brahma); 
H. Yardley; J. Dove (Cochin); R. Wright (Spanish). c, W. Yelland (Creve- 
Ceur); J. N. Whitthead (Cochin): J. Lone; FP. Brewer (Houdan): Howard 
and Nichols. Hens.—l, J. H. Nicholls (Cochins) 2, Howard & Nichols. 8, Miss 
®. Brown (Spanish). 4, J.N. Whitehead (Cochin). he, J. Rasterbrook (Black 
Minorea); Mrs. M. Seamcns (Dorking); H. Piekler. jun. (Polands): H. Lane 
(Spanish). c, H. Beldon; R. Stork (Game); S. A. Wyllie (Polands): R. Pile 
(Brahmas): R. W. Beachey (Brahmas snd Dorking) (3): F. Brewer (Dorking). 

Cup for the most successful exhibitor in the poultry classes.—Mr. Be!don. 

PIGEONS. 
Carrrers.—l, H. Yardley. 2,1. Horner. he, G. J. Taylor (2). 


‘H. Yardl 
Pourt G.J.Tavlor. 2,E. Horner. he, B.T. Dew. c, B. Horner. 
, G. J. Taylor. 2, E. T. Dew. hc,-G. J. Taylor; E. Horner, | 


TUMBLER! 
Bares.—l, G. J. Taylor. 2, H. Yardley. 


Ss 


9 


¢, E. Horner; 


_ 


¢, ©. Bulpin. ‘ 
he, E. Horner. ’ 


Jacopins.—l, G. J. Taylor. 2and¢,E.Horner. he, J.&C.Bullen; C.Bulpin. 

Fantatts.—l, H. Yardley. 2, W. H. Tomlinson. hc, J. F. Loveridge. c, E. 
Horner; W. H. Tomlinson. 

TrRUMPETERS.—Il, E. Horner. 2,P.H.Jones. he, W.Masland. c, W. Mudge 


C. Bulpin. 
Owuxs.—i and 2, P. H, Jones. he, J. Ford. 


Nouns H. Yardley. 2,T.A. Dean. he, T.A. Dean; F. Graham. 
Dracoons.—l1 and 2, G. South. 


ANTWERPS.—1 and 2, H. R. Wright. he, W. H. Mitchell: H. Yardley. : 
Tursits.—l, H. Yardley. 2,P. H.Jones. he, G.J. Taylor; G. H. Gregory; 


E. Horner. 
ANY OTHER Variety.—l, C. Bulpin (Archangels). 2,J. Bowes. he, C. Bulpin 
(Helmets); J. Watts; E. Horner. 
Cup for the most successful exhibitor in the Pigeon classes.—Mr. Yardley. 
The Judges of poultry were the Rey. G. F. Hodson, and Mr. Edward 
Hewitt; Mr. Esquilant officiating for Pigeons. 


FARM BREEDING AND MANAGEMENT OF 
POULTRY. 


At a meeting of the Midland Farmers’ Club, held February 8th, 
the following remarks were made on this subject :— 

The Rev. A. G. Brooxe (of Shrawardine, Salop) said :—Mr Chair- 
man and Gentlemen, the subject for our consideration to-day, “‘ The 
Breeding and Management of Poultry,” is, you will admit, one of great 
importance, and the few remarks which I am about to make will, I 
trust, lead to an interesting and profitable discussion. First, then, as 
regards “the breeding of poultry.” When we find from statistics that 
an immense quantity of poultry of all descriptions is annually imported 
into this country from France and Germany ; that hundreds of millions 
of eggs are imported yearly, and that in spite of that terrible war which 
has been so long raging, 22,000,000 of eggs arrived from France during 
November in last year, it must surely be admitted that for some time 
past we have too much neglected our farmyard poultry, which forms 
in these days such an important market commodity as food for the 
people. Take the generality of poultry in farmyards, and what do you 
find? A quantity of fowls of all sorts and sizes, mostly the result of 
breeding in-and-in for years past, the owner continually grumbling 
because they cost so much to keep, the feeding being generally left to 
a personage known as the boy, who feeds the fowls and hunts up the 
eggs, and most liberally throws down handful after handful of grain 
with more zeal than discretion, and then, in the winter months, when 
eggs are scarce and might be a great source of profit, few, if any, are 
to be found. It is all very well, you may say, to point out defects, but 
where is the remedy? Simply in this, that the majority of farmers 
need, with their poultry, reform. To make poultry profitable, you 
must first of all start with the breed that will ensure you success. 

Having been a most successful exhibitor and breeder for nearly 
twenty years, and having kept almost every variety of the feathered 
tribe and tested their merits, permit me to recommend to you the 
following suggestions :—Wither send to market and so dispose of every 
fowl in your yards (and you will never have a better time of year for 
getting rid of them than the present), and then commence with an 
entirely fresh strain; or else keep about a dozen of the best and biggest 
of your pullets, and purchase another bold chanticleer to proclaim the 
morn, and thus introduce fresh blood amongst them. As regards start- 
ing with an entirely fresh strain (the doing which I most strongly 
recommend), yor will find that it will answer your purpose best to keep 
Dark Brahmas—say a two-year-old cock and six pullets, by way of a 
start, anid for this reason. ‘They are very hardy, extremely prolific, 


} and good mothers; if hatched in April, they will lay during the winter 


months, and, with a liberal supply of good food, the chickens attain 
size and flesh very fast; can soon be got ready for the market, and are 
by no means coarse for the table. In addition to this, they are hand- 


some, and an ornament to the farmyard; the eye is naturally pleased 


by seeing a true and pure strain of fowls foraging about, and in these 
days of poultry exhibitions, good birds (especially of this breed) com- 
mand high prices, and you will find them very remunerative. As an 
instance of this, I commenced keeping Brahmas some four years ago 
(having heard them so highly spoken of), and purchased some prize 
birds. The first time I exhibited this breed was at Middleton, near 
Manchester, and with a cockerel seven months old I won the first prize, 
and the bird was claimed at the catalogue price, £5. Since then I 
have occasionally bought eggs, in the spring, from exhibitors on whom 
I could depend, and haye been most fortunate in hatching early birds. 
Most of them I sold at the rate of 50s. the cockerel and two pullets; 
others were used for household purposes. The pullets I saved each 
year for winter laying were invaluable. You may perhaps ask, Where 
can Dark Brahmas be obtained? Asa rule, I prefer purchasing birds 
rather than eggs for hatching, and now that poultry shows are so 
numerous, Brahmas are always to be met with at fair prices. For 
inatance, an opportunity will be afforded you at Wolverhampton Poultry 
Show, to-morrow; or, failing that, there is an excellent newspaper 
called THe Journan or Horricunrure anp CorracE GARDENER, 
published every Thursday, which treats most efficiently on all matters 
connected with poultry, and from which you can derive most useful 
information. In the advertisements you will find fowls of all varieties, 
and eggs, for disposal, from well-known breeders, and in time you would 
also find it a very useful medium for getting rid of some of yoursurplus 
stock. In thus strongly recommending Brahmas as best suited for 
farmyards, I do not wish to speak disparagingly of the many other 


, useful varieties of fowls which we haye, such as Dorkings, Cochins, 


Spanish, Game, and Hamburghs; by all means, try them if you like. 


February 23, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


151 


But were I a farmer, and wanted a really useful and remunerative 
breed, for hardiness, fast growing, and sure and certain winter-layers, 


I would keep Brahmas—Brahmas, and nothing but Brahmas. Another | 


suggestion which I offered was that of keeping some of the best and 
biggest pullets, and turning down with them a fresh cock. Here I 
would cecommend either Dorkings or Brahmas as being most suited. A 
friend of mine had a Brahma cock from me two years since for this 
purpose, and the number of chickens when I last saw his yard might 
have been described as ‘‘ legion.” 


If we look into our markets, I do not think that we find the dead | 


poultry offered there for sale much larger than it used to be, with the 
exception of Turkeys, Geese, and Ducks, in which I have noticed vast 
improvement. And here, again, the result of having only first-rate 
strains to breed from soon shows itself. A good strain will cost no 
more to keep than a bad one. 


Aylesbury Ducks weighed over 18 lbs. the coupie. Seventy-two pens 
of Rouen Ducks competed there, and the first prize couple weighed 
19lbs. 4ozs. Geese weighed 58 lbs. and 56 lbs. the couple, and gos- 
lings of last year 49]lbs. ‘The first prize adult Terkey cock, which 
came across the Atlantic to compete, weighed 56 lbs. 4.0zs. This bird 
I believe to be now the property of Mr. Lythall, and with it, if I mis- 
take not, he won the silver cup at Bristol during last month. Both the 
prizes for Turkey cocks of 1870 went also, at Birmingham, to the same 
gentleman, with birds weighing 24 Ibs. and 23 Ibs. each. Theold prize 
hens weighed 35 lbs. and 34 lbs. ; the young ones, 31 lbs. and 291bs. If 
you breed from such strains as these, you may go and do likewise. If 
you make a point, too, of attending some of our largest exhibitions, 
and mark well the points and characteristics of the winning birds in 
these breeds you may be desirous of keeping, experience will soon teach 
you the standard requisite to be attained. Whatever be your breeds of 
poultry, be careful to infuse fresh blood into them every spring. 


As regards the management of poultry, the most important point is 
to have a properly-constructed, well-ventilated poultry house, with 
plenty of light, and free from draught. By all means have this before 
entering upon a fresh breed of fowls, as on their arrival they can be 
shut in for a few days in their new abode, and thus learn to return to 
it for the purpose of laying and roosting. Have the door well secured 
by two fiat iron bars to go across it, fastened with staples screwed into 
the post at one end, and by patent padlocks at the other. There 


shoul also be a sliding panel in the bottom of the door for the fowls | 


to go in and out during the day, and the lower iron bar should go 
across this panel when shut down for the night. You will thus he 
better able to frustrate the designs of that class of people who hardly 
Imow the difference between ‘‘mine and thine;” and sly Reynard 
(however desirous we may be of his welfare) will find it answer his 
purpose better to visit tle poultry yard of some more careless neighbour. 
The walls of the house shonld be limewashed at least three times in 
the year. The perches should not be more than 3 feet from the sronnd, 
and ought to be at least 5 inches wide: a larch pole, split in halves, 
answers the purpose admirably. These perches should be placed all 
round the house, about 3 feet distant from the wall, not one above the 
other, and care should be taken that there are no beams or rafters that 
they cau fly up to in the roof, asin their descent they alight on the 
ground with great force, and this is the cause of so many cocks being 
bumble-footed and gouty. Round the walls, on the ground, at con- 
venient distances, place three bricks, to form a square for nests for lay- 
ing and sitting; in these place some hay and achina egg. I prefer 
this plan to boxes, because they are easier to keep clean, and the other 
fowls cannot roost upon them to disturb the sitting hens. The centre 
of the house being an open space, there is room to have the droppings 
properly raked out from under the perches once or twice a-week, and 
fresh earth or coarse sand thrown all over the floor, and well raked 
over. The value of these droppings as manure cannot he too highly 
estimated. It is usually the plan to allow fowls to roost in sheds, 
bushes, or trees, where the droppings are mostly wasted, and cannot 
well be collected and turned to good account. In some places where 
there is a poultry house the fowls undoubtedly decline roosting in it, 
because it is kept so dirty, and consequently swarms with vermin. The 
cleaner you keep your fowl-house the healthier will be your stock. If 
you can induce your Turkeys to roost in the same house as your fowls, 
so much the better; and, althouch it may entail, at first, a little extra 
expense, by all means have a separate dwelling for your Geese and 
Ducks. Let the fioor be well littered with straw, to be occasionally 
shaken over, or changed. In winter time, eight o’clock is almost early 
enough for fowls to be let out of their house, but before so doing it isa 
good plan to give them a liberal supply of soft food (warm if possible), 
as it will teach them to become attached to their abode, and the sitting 
hens will reap the benefit of a regular meal. By soft food I mean 
potatoes boiled the night before, and mashed up when warm with Indian 
or barley meal. Corn should be given in the middle of the day, and 
again before going to roost, in the vicinity of the fowl house. Cabbages 
should also be specially grown, to be given them daily during the 
winter months. In summer time they can of course in a measure 
cater for themselves. The sitting hens will also be much benefited by 
haying a cast iron trough (which will cost about 3s.) placed on two 
iron brackets, fixed in the wall of the house about a foot from the 
ground, to contain water, which ought to be changed every morning. 
As regards the rearing of chickens, I would only say, when under the 
coop give a most liberal supply, little and often, of different kinds of 


To show how much Dueks have, of late | 
years, improved in weight, at the last Birmingham Show the first prize | 


food, but above all be very particular that the water given them to 
drink is clear, and often changed. Information you may sometimes 
require about the management of your fowls and their various ailments, 
and if you will write to the editors of the paper I have before mentioned, 
they will, I am sure, willingly give you advice in the columns allotted 
for correspondence. * i ; 

In drawing my remarks to a close—though I now assure you that 
poultry may be made a profitable adjunct to the stock of the agricul- 
turist, and a source of great pleasure and amusement to the amateur, 
and that with proper care, judgment, and attention it will be exceed- 
ingly remunerative—yet I trust that we may, in the course of time, be 
allowed another discussion on the subject, and learn much by listening 
to the experience of some members of this club, who may take heed of 
my suggestions, which, out of pure love for things appertaining unto. 
ponltry, have been humbly offered. ; 

Mr. Lowe said that Mr. Brooke had told them that his experience 
showed that the Dark Brahma were the best kind of poultry for the 
farmer, but he feared that the price which it was stated three of these 
birds had feteched—50s., showed that Mr. Brooke must have been look- 
ing at the matter from an amateur’s point of view. The neglect of 
poultry by farmers, he considered was due to one of two causes. 
Either the farms were now on a much larger scale than formerly, or 
the wives and daughters of farmers did not attend properly to the- 
poultry. Now his later experience was not sufficient to enable him to 
say whether the Brahma breed would be the best for the farmer to. 
cultivate; but he was thrown back on the experience of the past, wher 
they used to think a Black-breasted Red a decent bird [laughter]. 
He could remember when those birds would give them a little amuse- 
ment in the shape of a stand-up fight [laughter]; but in these 
enlightened days far more healthy pastimes had been introduced. 
Nevertheless these birds had qualities besides their fighting propen- 
sities, and a couple of Game chickens were by no means a bad dish to 
introduce [hear, hear]. He begged to suggest whether the excellent 
wives of the farmers and their daughters could not devote more atten- 
tien to the cultivation of poultry, more especially in the shape of food 
for the people. 

Mr. Grorcr Wrse said a few years ago, when he lived in Ireland> 
he was a very great fowl-keeper. He was very unfortunate now with 
regard to fowls, but he still took a very great interest in them. He 
took a great interest in the preservation of fowls, looking at it asa fox- 
hunter. He never lost but two fowls during the whole time he had 
kept them, and if people would only just take care of their fowls they 
would not be pestered by people saying, ‘‘ The foxes are always taking 
our fowls” [laughter]. It might be interesting to some gentlemen to. 
know that during the five years he kept fowls he always found that he 
got more eggs in the month of February than in any other month 
hear, hear], and the next month he found good for his eggs was the: 
month of July, He always gave his fowls plenty to eat, and fed them 
regnlarly, and took as good care of them as he did of himself, and he 
could only say he found them most profitable [hear, hear ]. M 

Mr. Broor® said he must disagree with Mr. Lowe on the point of 
keeping Brahmas. He had kept Malays for the last thirty years, but 
he would not recommend them to farmers. 

Mr. Lor said he should recommend Malays to farmers. He had 
kept them, and had found they were the only breed he could keep. 
They were an excellent treed for the table, and he did not see why Mr. 
Brooke should not recommend them to farmers. He could not keep 
Dorkings or Spanish, and yet hecould keep Malays. He would be glad 
if Mr. Brooke would give them his reasons why he would not recom- 
mend them to farmers. 

Mr. Masren said he had listened with very great pleasure to the 
remarks of Mr. Brooke. So far as his remarls about Dark Brahmas 
were concerned, he was very much disposed to agree with him, from a 
armer’s point of view, that they were a very profitable breed. That, 
he thought, was the forty-fourth day of continuous frost they had had, 
and he was happy to say that it was the only time he had had eggs 
every day in his life, aud these eggs were the produce of the Brahma 
ind. Mr. Lowe haa allnded to the fact of the present generation of 
armers’ wives looking with contempt upon the poultry [laughter ]~ 
He was happy to say that idea did not reign at Pendeford. A statistical 
account was kept by his wife, and she could tell them what she made 
out of the poultry in the year. He mentioned also another instance, 
and said, therefore, he thought his friend Mr. Lowe was going beyond 
he mark in saying the farmers’ wives did not lock after the pounds, 
shillings, and pence in the poultry department. 

Mr. Wricut said for more than a quarter of a century he had kept. 
poultry, and had had profits to a considerable extent. He considered 
that they could not lay down any strict rnles as to the breed of poultry 
to be kept universally. There would be differences of climate and of 
soil, and some would be inconvenienced in the room required for keeping 
them. With regard to the keeping of poultry generally, he found that 
they required two runs or two yards for their old and young birds. 
Unless they were able to provide that accommodation, it was almost 
impossible they could keep poultry satisfactorily [hear, hear]. They 
found they cosi them double in corn, and in the course of a year or two 
their old birds became unfit foruse. He advocated the use of out-barns. 
for that purpose. But the most important question for them was te 
consider the best kind for a farmer to keep. He thought Mr. Brooke 
would give up the Brahmas. One of the best and oldest birds wa, 
the Dorking. It was certain the number of eggs they laid was no 


152 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ February 23, 1871. 


equal to those of the Cochin or the Hamburgh, but for the table 
there was nothing to equal them. Of course in some localities, where 
the soil was damp, he did not think the Dorkings would do very well. 
Another objection was they were rather delicate, and liable to have 


the roup; but this, he thought, arose very often from the overcrowding. | 


With regard to the keeping of fowls, he said he had a very large range 


for them, and he had the roosting place swept ont every morning, and | 


some of McDougall’s powder scattered about. He would recommend 
every stock-keeper to use this for the prevention of disease. He had 
kept the Hamburgh, and for an amateur there was nothing superior to 
the Silver-spangled Hamburghs. They laid almost for ever, and for 
the table there was no poultry that would surpass young Silver Ham- 
burgh chickens. The Game were very fine, but they were rather 
leggy. They had been known to lay more than 300 eggs in a year. 
A good deal depended upon their situation. At any rate they were 
constant layers. He spoke favourably of the old Pheasant fowls, 
Moonies, or Redeaps, as they were called. Nothing was more worthy 
of the attention of any gentleman than the old Golden Pheasant. 
The Cochins, as a rule, were very good for the table, but he complained 
that they had too much a propensity for sitting. With regard to the 
Malays, they were a very valuable fowl, and he was surprised they did 
not receive more attention. Speaking of the question of crosses, he 
thought it was a mistake; but the best of all crosses was a Brahma 
and Dorking. He was sorry to say with regard to the Dorking that 
‘they did not exhibit so strongly at the last poultry show as they had 
done. This he attributed to the drought of last year, which caused 
the worms, upon which the fowls often fed, not to be so plentiful. 

Mr. Brooke in answer to the question put to him why he did not 
mention the breed of Malays, said that they were very long in the leg 
and looked unsightly in the market, and people would not therefore 
‘buy them. Then, again, he did not recommend them to farmers 
‘because they were very pugnacious, and it was very hard work to keep 
peace amongst them [laughter]. After again recommending the 
Brahmas, he said he had listened with pleasure to the discussion, and 
‘he hoped that at some future day they might have more discussion on 
the same subject. 


Nantwich Poutrry SHow.—I sincerely hope that another year the 
Committee will open the Show to general competition, and offer prizes 
which will induce some of our most prominent exhibitors to send, and 
‘that the ladies in the neighbourhood will render their assistance, and 
give cups for those classes which your correspondent considers so 
miserable. Then, should he favour us with a report next year, we 
shall hope that his praises may be more evenly divided.—Sprcraror. 


Woopsrmce SHow.—This Show will take place on the 15th and 
26th of March next., and deserves encouragement. There are six silver 
cups value £5 5s. each, and three of £3 3s. for poultry, and a point 
cup of £3 3s. is also offered in each section of Pigeons and Cage Birds. 
The prizes for poultry are 20s. and 10s., for Pigeons 15s. and 7s. 6d., 
and for Cage Birds 10s. and 5s. If desired, money will be paid in lieu 
of a cup. There are twenty-three classes for poultry, fourteen for 
Pigeons, and sixteen for cage birds. 


CRYSTAL PALACE CANARY SHOW. 


I soup like to have given a more extended notice of the Norwich 
variety than I had time to do last week, the entries in the eight classes 
apportioned to them including, as they did, more than one-half of the 
entire number of birds exhibited in the thirty three classes of Canaries 
proper and Mules, but I was very tired. I had had a busy day.. 
The notes I had scribbled on the margin of my catalogue on Saturday 
were some not very legible, and others not very clear as to their mean- 
ing, and I had paid a flying visit to the Palace to refresh my memory, 
and take a final peep at the gems of the year. No great undertaking 
certainly ; but why did I leave home in tight boots? At my time of 
life I ought to have known better. I was very jaded when I returned 
to my hotel, and the bare idea that the printer was waiting for ‘“‘ copy,” 
and that I might at any moment receive a visit from one of his imps, 
was in itself quite enough to paralyse my energies. Besides, there 
was what we callin the north, a meat-tea waiting forme. A meat- 
tea is tea with “‘something to it,’ and my something to it was a 
steak. Those who thought my last week’s notes not equal to the sub- 
ject must make allowance for human weakness. I handed my hasty 
mems to the imp in attendance, who, by the way, was not an imp at 
all, but a most courteous member of the staff at No. 171, promising 
to— supplement them next week.” That was his composition, not 
mine; but when I saw it in print on Thursday I thought it read very 
well. I think it’s very neat. 

I was not sorry to have had some sort of excuse for paying my 
second visit to the Palace, and was well repaid by meeting friends I 
knew only by name, as well as old faces I had not seen for years. 
Before leaving—and it’s hard work to get away from the birds while 
there is any light to see them—Mr. Bemrose and Mr. Walter, with 
Messrs. Cockle & Watson, ‘‘ shed a tear” with me at the extreme end 
af the Tropical Department, where the thin slices of ham are spread 
out on cold marble slabs to bleach. We had a deal to talk about and 


H 


not much time to do it in, and with many regrets that there is not a — 


British National Canary Society of gentlemen, holding its annual 


show in various towns in England in rotation, and having its annual 
meeting of parliament, we said good-bye, longing for the time when 
the fancy will take the matter up in earnest, and carry outa project 
as simple in itself and in its working as A B C. 

Mais revenons 4 nos moutons. The Show was not held in the Tro- 
pical Department as of old, but in an elegant tent or awning erected 
in the nave between the transept and the Christmas tree. The ar- 
rangements were excellent, and inasmuch as the unbroken area allows 
of a more regular and systematic grouping of the cages than is practi- 
cable in the Tropical Department, the tent is in this respect the better 
place; but, I think, in this respect alone. Exhibitors, I was told, were 
much pleased with the arrangement, as well they might be, for the 
subdued light would add many shades of colour. As far as judging is 
concerned, the light was ‘‘as fair for one as another;” but that is a 
wrong principle to start with. I have no hesitation whatever in saying 
that many birds bought under the shade of the tent would not have 
been recognised by the uninitiated when exposed to an open light. 
Undoubtedly it is to the interest of dealers to have their wares shown 
to the best advantage, but the Crystal Palace Canary Show claims to 
be something more than the great market it is. The Tropical end 
was beautifully warm. That is the place for the Show. Any screen 
arrangement which can be devised to keep off draughts I should cor- 
dially approve of, but by all means have a clear light. How the 
Judges managed without taking the birds from under the awning I 
cannot imagine. They must have had a very arduons task. 

Before passing to the Belgians in my promise to “‘ supplement my 
remarks,” I revert to the Norwich birds just to say in general terms 
that Derby seemed to be somewhat out of form, Norwich was in force, 
Northampton came up smiling but a little exhausted from loss of 
blood, and Coventry showed its ability to fight in any arena. 

There was only a yery small entry of Belgians. The Daily News 
of February 11th said, ‘‘ France and Germany are scarcely represented, 
and Belgium sends fewer birds then usual.” JI don’t think the Daily 
News is in the fancy. The importation or non-importation of Belgian 
Canaries is not the cause of the paucity of entries. There are plenty 
of Belgians, first-class Belgians, in the country; but itis a great risk 
to send such delicate fragile things from home at this season of the 
year, to say nothing of six days’ exposure in open wire cages. I am 
not referring to birds such as some I saw in Classes 9and10. I mean 
Belgians. No bird is so sensitive, or suffers so much from the exposure 
and excitement of a show as a high-bred Belgian. I use the word 
excitement advisedly, for I have seen specimens the centre of such a 
circle of attraction, that the poor things were being “ put up” through- 
out the entire day, and had scarcely any time to eat a grain of seed. 
But then they were Belgians, and not things as devoid of shape as 
Adam’s inexpressibles. The classification, too, has something, nay, 
a great deal, to do with the slack entry. I have before enunciated my 
opinion on this matter in the columns of the Journal, an opinion 
which I believe is entertained by most admirers of this remarkable 
bird. In brief, I maintain that it is essentially a position bird, and 
that colour is a secondary point; that the presence of a simple bond 
Jide tick (not a blotch—every fancier imows what I mean), isno detri- 
ment whatever to a Belgian; that the highest-bred clear birds will 
throw ticked young ones; that both clear and ticked belong essentially 
to the same school; and that if there be not a separate class for the 
ticks (for which there is no real necessity), both should compete in 
the same class. The Variegated Belgian is another bird altogether. 
The marking has been imported from some other variety, and though 
perhaps nearly all trace of the cross has been bred out, still the cross 
is there precisely the same as among some of the variegated Cinnamons 
till recently in vogue among north-country fanciers. I have seen 
Cinnamons, selfs and variegated, as high up in Belgian properties as 
many so-called Variegated Belgians. To class ticked birds with these 
is manifestly absurd, since they belong to two different classes; but if 
they be, however much at variance with common sense, grouped to- 
gether in one, and yet have to be contented with two prizes while less 
comprehensive classes have three, one cannot help tracing the small 
entry to causes other than those assigned by the Daily News. The 
best bird in the four classes was No. 328, a good bird, J. N. Harrison. 
Mr. Doel’s were in Norwich cages, and seemed afraid to stand up. 
No. 340, G. Tuckwood (who knows a good bird and spares no trouble 
to get it), was more massive in the shoulder than most of its compeers. 
Mr. Poole, of Notts, was second in the clear classes with birds of no 
great merit. I tried them all, but could develope no great beauty in 
any. ‘The subscription list for the cup for this variety did not fill, 
neither did that for the Norwich, which is a thing ‘no fellah can 
understand.” 


The London Fancy made a brilliant show with thirty entries, among 
which the well-known names of J. Waller and W. Brodrick were con- 
spicuous. In Jonques Mr. Brodrick showed two, and was first and 
highly commended, while Mr. Waller was second, third, and very 
highly commended with the remaining five of his seven entries—a 
great performance. In Mealies Mr. Waller was first and carried off 
the cup, which the half dozen enthusiastic admirers of this remarkable 
variety had no difficulty in raising, with a glorious bird well moulted, 
though I fancied it had a foul feather on each side of the tail. I 
do not say this as reflecting on the Judges, for even if it were so there 
were no doubt suflicient counterbalancing points to enable it to occupy 
its proud position, and they would have a better opportunity than I 
for careful examination. Mr. Waller’s remaining four birds all re- 


February 23, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


153 


ceived the highest commendation, Mr. Brodrick being second and third 
with his two entries, the whole being birds of great quality, rich colour, 
and excellent feather. It may be that many, when looking at the 
London Fancy Canary, are not aware of the peculiarity which attaches 
to it, and the extreme difficulty in bringing it out in show condition ; 
and it may be matter of surprise to some to know that those deep 
orange birds with their jetty black wings and tail are, when in their 
long clothes, not more comely than a hedge Sparrow, and it is not till 
they are short-coated that they change their sombre garments for that 
rich jonquil dress which contrasts so strikingly with its black trimming. 
This costume they wear for only one year, for at the second moult, 
when they, in common with other birds, first change their wing and 
tail feathers, the black is replaced by white, or at best by grizzly grey, 
and the bird retires from the scene of his victories into the more sober 
quiet of domestic life, spending the remainder of his days in his 
homely suit, while his olive branches grow up about him clad in the 
fashionable attire of his early manhood, only in their turn to undergo 
the same remarkable metamorphosis. 

This tendency to change of colour is to some extent shared by the 
Lizard; and as it is with some a question whether a greyhound is a 
doteriorated bulldog, or vice versd, so it is a moot point with many 
whether a Lizard be a degenerate London Tancy, or a Fancy be a 
degenerate Lizard. They have some points in common, and are occa- 
sionally crossed, as is evidenced by entries in the “‘ Any variety” class, 
but not to the extent some suppose. Though a great admirer of 
Fancies, I am not a breeder of them, and so can say little as the 
result of my own actual experience. I do not call a man who buys a 
pair of Fancies and rears a nest or two a breeder proper. It is from 
such men as Mr. Brodrick and Mr. Waller, who have made it a life 
study that we must be content to learn; and Mr. Waller assured me 
in a most interesting chat I had with him, that it is not a practice to 
eross the Fancy and Lizard, that the deep black wings and tail have 
not been derived from the Lizard, but are native to the bird, and that 
by judicious pairing London Fancies will continue to produce such 
birds as were at the Palace without any foreign admixture whatever. 


Fifty-one Lizards were staged, Mr. Ashton being first both in Gold 
and Silver-spangled. The cup was awarded to No. 403, the Golden 
bird, but I inclined in favour of No. 425, than which few finer Silver- 
spangled Lizards have been seen. I say it modestly, having no wish 
to rub anyone’s hair the wrong way. The cup bird was certainly 
beautifully spangled, well capped, though slightly defective in one eye, 
and just a little uneven at the back, and very bright, and clearly 
merited its position at the head of the class; but the Silver-spangled 
gem was well calculated to make one break the tenth commandment. 
Mr. Judd was a good second in the Golden class, with a finely-spangled 
bird, though a little run on the flights, and Mr. T. W. W. Fairbrass, 
of Canterbury, third with a strong lusty bird also slightly run. All 
his birds showed that rich bronzy tinge so much desired by Lizard 
fanciers. I do not want to be taken to task for adopting the word 
‘“bronzy’’ as conveying my idea of the shade of colour I refer to, but 
I use it as opposed to that greenish tinge which is often present. 
No. 397 (Fairbrass), a hen, was claimed at 50s. I observed no com- 
mendation attached to her, but I thought her a remarkable bird. Mr. 
Tuckwood’s birds also were of the right stamp, and altogether it was 
an excellent class. In Silvers, Mackley’s second pleased me much. 
Not so No. 409, third prize, which though rich in colour was not 
remarkably well mottled. Nos. 410 and 411, G. Harrison, were good, 
and 422, Fairbrass, not mentioned, was a fancy of mine. I apprehend 
that the defect in the front of the cap was a bar to its commendation. 
To No. 424, Adams & Athersuch, I find I have appended the remark, 
“high colour, fine cap;” and to 426, Ashton, ‘tin a cloud:” it was 
yery much run, and as compared with 422, not worth its diploma. 

There were only two prizes to each of the three classes of Cinna- 
mons, numbering in all seventy entries, an inconsistency which I have 
no doubt will, with other defects, be remedied next year. Northamp- 
ton as usual was strong, Mr. Irons taking first in Jonques, and Mr. 
Tomes second with a bird which, I think, was beyond compare its 
supetior. EF blame the awning for it. No. 430, Gayton, and 445, 
Spence, were very even in colour, a great point in Cinnamons, for 
with high colour comes an objectionable stripe, the presence of which 
is an eyesore to the fancier. Mr. Waller showed three birds not to be 
despised, which were soon claimed. No. 444, H. J. Ims, very highly 
commended, was a mistake of the tents. Mr. Waller was first in 
Buffs with a great bird, and Mr. W. Gamble second with an un- 
mistakeably fine specimen, with Moore & Wynn and the other North- 
ampton representatives close up. ‘The tent was wrong again with 
477, J. Hadland. 

The awards in the Marked or Variegated Cinnamon class were made 
on a plan altogether different from that adopted last year. The object 
of this class, what is to be aimed at, should be more clearly defined ; 
“‘Marked or Variegated” is very vague. However, assuming it to 
mean, when applied to Cinnamons, a bird having cinnamon markings, 
the question is, Should the bird be judged for general style and quality 
apart from the regularity of the markings? or is exactness of marking 
to be considered of as much value as in an Evenly-marked Norwich ? 
Last year high-coloured, irregularly-broken birds scored the highest 
honours above others marked with great exactness. This year the 
case was reversed; exactness ruled to the subversion of colour and 
quality if combined with irregularity. The fact is, the two classes are 
as wide apart as the poles. The one is the result of crossing with the 


Norwich to obtain colour with as little disposition to break as possible ; 
the other is the result of careful crossing with Belgians, with especial 
care to retain a disposition to break into regular markings. The type 
of the one class is a bird of Norwich build, having a rich body colour, 
with patches of cinnamon here and there; the type of the other is a 
long, slim, graceful bird, evenly marked on the wings and eyes, in 
which colour has, to a great extent, been sacrificed for some approxi- 
mation to a fixed character for shape and exactness of marking. Such 
a specimen was No. 482, Bemrose & Orme, first prize, and were 
such clearly understood that to be the recognised standard, many a 
beautiful bird of that stamp would be sent from the north, where the 
Cinnamon has for years been grafted on the Belgian to attain similar 
results. No. 485 (H. Apted) may be accepted as a good example of 
the Cinnamon Norwich, an intermediate step between the old Dun and 
the modern school of bright Cinnamons so deservedly popular. 

The Any other variety class was not very interesting, but it con- 
tained one or two good samples of the Manchester Coppy, with one of 
which Mr. Ashton was first ; two good Marked Yorkshire, 500 (Stans- 
field), second, and 508, Hawman ; one solitary Glasgow Fancy, No. 510 
(Baxter), third, a good representative of the graceful favourite of the 
other side of the Tweed; and divers nondescripts, among which oue 
figured as a “Green Hybrid” (?), and four were described as ‘‘ Buif 
and Yellow” (?).—W. A. Buaxsron. 


IS THE RABBIT FANCY ON THE DECLINE? 


No; but, on the contrary, steadily increasing every year. Just 
refer to ‘‘our Journal” of December 15th, 1870, and read the report 
on the York Shows, from their first one in 1864 to that held in 1870, 
and it will be found that in the first-named year there were only fifty 
entries of Rabbits, while in the last year the surprising number of 
124 entries were made. Can anyone, with such an instance as this 
before him, say the Rabbit fancy is on the decline? The York Show 
is not the only case I could quote. 

Mr. Millington may continue his notes about the value and scarcity 
of the Lops, but he will not thus better their position in the various 
prize lists, much less by saying that the fancy kinds are so cheap and 
so very plentiful; on the contrary, he has materially aided me in my 
endeavours to get. the varieties better classed, and to the Lops he has 
given rather a sore hit. For any committee to offer more prizes for a 
scarce variety than for a plentiful variety would be out of all reason, 
for committees generally offer most to those whieh secure the most 
entries. 

As to the club, I think it an excellent suggestion, and am ready to 
do all I can to further the proposal. I would suggest that the sub- 
scription be 5s. instead of 1s. annually, and that whenever a Rabbit 
show is held, a member living nearest the show should have his ex- 
penses paid to iook after the members’ Rabbits only, and see them fed 
and properly repacked for home.—Jas. Boyin, sun., Blackburn. 


THEGREAT BUSTARD IN WILTSHIRE. 


A Grear Busrarp has recently been killed on the old haunt 
of that bird—Salisbury Plain. I notice that in some of your 
contemporaries it is stated that no bird of this kind has been 
seen in Wiltshire for fifty years. I amin a position to state 
that this is incorrect. 

In January, 1856, a male Bustard was wounded by a shot 
from one of Lord Ailesbury’s keepers, and two days afterwards 
was, strange to say, captured by a little boy of only seven years 
old. It was subsequently purchased by my late neighbour, 
Rey. G. T. Marsh, the Vicar of Sutton Benger, Wilts, in whose 
valuable ornithological collection I have very frequently seen 
it. At Mr. Marsh’s death, in 1862, it became, I believe, the 
property of his brother, Mr. Matthew Marsh, late M.P. for 
Salisbury. 

The particulars of the capture of this Bustard are so singular 
that I will relate them, as they may interest some of your 
readers. The keeper shot at the bird whilst it was flying, not 
knowing what bird it was, or ignorantly fancying, as it was such 
a large bird, that it must be an eagle. The distance was great, 
and as the bird flew on apparently unharmed the keeper thought 
no more of it. A few days after a little farm boy aged seven 
saw @ large bird laid down and fluttering in a turnip field. 
The lad, a brave little lad, caught it by one wing, and dragged 
it (the bird was weak with hunger and loss of blood), across 
the field for a quarter of a mile, and took it to a barn, where a 
man broke its neck. The labourers in the barn had just come 
in to dinner, and wanted to pluck and dress the bird for that 
meal. However, the lad stalked off with his property on his 
back, and sold it for one shilling. My friend Mr. Marsh was 
glad to give twenty sovereigns for it a little time afterwards. 
IT have often looked at the bird with great interest, and wondered 
how a little fellow dared to capture it, for it measured from 
wing to wing more than 6 feet. 

I knew two other gentlemen who had seen Bustards in Wilt- 
shire. The lata Rey. Robert Ashe, the Rector of Lan gley- 


154 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ February 23, 1871. 


Burrell, caught a young one, and tied its legs with a pocket- 
handkerchief, and hid the bird in a hole until he had taken 
Divine service, but afterwards found neither bird nor hand- 
kercbief. The late Mr. William Lanfear, of Caristian-Malford, 
had also seen more than one on the Plain, aud one that was 
captured and kept for a few days by a cottager in a pigstye. 
Indeed, it is a mistake to think that no Bustards have been 
seen or killed of late years. One was shot in Cornwall in 
1843, andone near Stonehenge in1849. Recently Bustards | 
have been seen, I believe, in Yorkshire, as well as in | 
Wilts. It seems strange that they always are found in 
those counties in which they once werecommon. Then, it | 
is odd that now all the country is divided into farms, and on 
farms labourers are constantly working, yet, save now and 
then, Bustards, birds as big as Turkeys,are notseen. How 
to explain this I know not, and that Bustards could fly over 
the sea is out of the question, and if they could they would 
be seen in Kent or Sussex. Must it not come to this—that 
a few birds, though under great disadvantages, still exist, 


inch between them and it. This serves two purposes—first, it 
brings the upper parts of the combs down nearly level with the 
highest portion of the glass; second, it allows free passage to 
the bees over the combs, an advantage for work, and useful 
when feeding. An aperture 2 inches long by 3 inch wide, is 
cut through the top for this purpose, and for ventilation. Four 
side apertures are also cut, being closed with perforated zinc 


—U 


and breed, and bring up a very few young ones ?—WILT- 
SHIRE REcToR. 


UNICOMB HIVE. 

Ix reply to ‘‘An AwareuR BrEE-KEEPER,’’ who requests 
some information respecting the construction of a unicomb 
hive, 1 think I may be able to render him some assistance by 
giving a rough description of one contrived by myself two 
years ago, and which, in practical use, answers remarkably well. 

The first object which should be aimed at in one of these in- 
teresting appendages to an apiary, should be the greatest pos- 
sible fucility for peopling it either with a swarm, or with the 
contents of an established stock. The second should be, that 
when not further required for observatory purposes, or in order | 
to save the colony through the winter, the combs and bees may 
very readily be transferred into quarters more congenial to their 
natural instincts. To carry out this principle, I decided on 
adapting the interior of the hive for taking the moveable bars 
and combs from my frame hives. Great care was requisite to 
losure that the various measurements were made correct, and 
that any bar from any hive in my apiary should be capable of 
being slipped into or out of the hive in a moment. 

After some consideration, I decided on having a long shallow 
hive instead of a deep one, and planned it to take three full- 
sized combs in length, by two in depth. 

The bars. of the frames used by me are nearly 14 inches in 
length; the depth of the combs when fully worked in the 
frames is about 8} inches. The length of the hive measured 
from outside to outside, is 3 feet 10 inches, and the depth nearly 
1 foot 10 inches. The frame is constructed of 2-inch plank 
throughout, rabbeted so as to form a series of recesses for the 
doors and glass sides, and the comb-bars to fit in. 

When the glass sides are in situ, the distance between the 
two glasses must be exactly 12 of an inch, or not exceeding 
1} cf an inch. For these sides light wooden frames without 
divisions are made, into which are fitted entire sheets of good, 
thick, clear glass, held in without putty by narrow slips of 
wood. These glass sides have no hinges attached to them, but 
are simply slipped into place, and secured at the top by small 
buttons, similar to those used for the inner part of writing 
desks, and at the bottom by two small sliding brass bolts, 
shooting down into the floor-board. A couple of small picture 
rings attached to the bottom rail of each frame will facilitate 
their handling. 

The top, sides, and bottom of the outer hive are all morticed 
together, the bottom being 2 inches wider all round than the 
top and sides. 

Tre outer wooden shutters are made in halves to mest in the 
eantre. They are framed and panelled; the panels being of 
the sams thickness as the frames—viz., = inch when finished. 
They are hung on shifting butt hinges, so as to be easily 
slipped off or on, are fitted with sliding bolts, and secured by 
locks. The entrances, 4 or 5 inches long, by { inch high, are 
cut in the thickness of the floor-board on either side, sloping 
up and meeting in the centre of the interior, where they are 
opened out. An alighting-board is slso attached to each side. 
Blocks of wood are fitted to slip into either of the entrances 
when the hive is turned round for observation. 

The hive revolves, baving an iron pin attached to the bottom, 
fitting into a socket let into the top of an octagonal pedestal. | 
Turning to the section of the interior, fig. 1, we find that the 
upper bars do not touch the top, but have a space of § of an 


Fig. 2.—22 inches, one-half the actual size. 


e. Rabbet for wooden shutters to 
rest against. 


a. Projection for combs, and rests 
for bars, 7-8ths inch. 
b. Rabbet,} inch. f. Recess for wooden shutters, 
ec. Ditto for glass side to fit | __3inch wide. — 
against, 2 inch. | g- Side of frame, ¢ inch. 
d. Recess for glass side, ¢ inch. 
when the bees are confined fcr exhibition at a flower show or 
other occasion. When not so required, blocks of wood are 
made to fit them. Two uprights are pecessary to serve as 
supports for the comb-bars. These are } inch wide, by & 
general thickness of £ inch, but they are made thicker just 
under the ends of the bars so as to form rests. 

The distance between the bars when in place is exactly 
Sinches. This is narrower than the interior space of the 
frames, the object being, that when combs are shifted from 
the frames into the unicomb hive, the bottoms of the upper 
row of combs shall reach to the tops of the second row of bars, 
for the double purpose of security and appearance; besides 
which, if there are spaces between the combs in the centre of 
the hive, the queen will constantly be slipping through out of 
sight. The space below the middle bars is 8} inches. An or- 
namental roof made sufiiciently roomy to allow of a feeder 
being used fits on the top of the hive. 

I have hitherto described the hive as I have constructed it, 
but it ig not necessary that the shape or dimensions I have 
given should be adhered to. If preferred, the hive may bemade 
deeper and shorter—that is, to carry three rows of bars in 
height, by two in length. Or if thought to be too large for the 
district, or the requirements of the bee-keeper, a hive intended 
to earry four bars only may be constructed. 

Tf “An Amarrur BrE-KEEPER” uses the Woodbury hive, £ 
should recommend bim to alter the measurements I have given, 
go as to adapt his hive to the use of the Woodbury bars. If he 
does not work bar or frame hives, he can make his unicomb 
hive to carry bars of any length he pleases. In the latter 
case he will require a box hive to be made, holding the same 
bara, for the purpose which will be described. 

We will suppose that the Woodbury bar-and-frame hive is in 
usa in his apiary, the bars, of course, being loose in the frames. 
One of these hives being properly prepared and furnished with 
nice guide combs, a swarm is shaken into it in the usual way, 
and allowed to work for two or three days. The hive is then 
opened, and the combs inspected, any irregularities being 
remedied. It is a good plan to alter the position of the combs 
in order to compel straighter work. The bees are allowed to 
remain in this stock hive for a few days longer, and then the 
unicomb hive being brought to the same stand or locality, the 
outer doors and the glass frame of one side are removed. The 
stock is placed close by the side of the unicomb, the bars are 
carefally lifted out without shaking off the bees, and slipped 


February 23, 1371. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


into their respective grooves or rests. Those combs containing 
the most brood are selected for the central portion of the ob- 
servatory hive. When all the combs that can be inserted are 
put in it will be necessary to see that they rest evenly, and as 
soon as possible the glass side should be slipped into place 
gradually, using very little pressure to allow the clusters of 
bees to disperse a little before finally pushing in. This being 
done, run in the bolts, and hang and close the outer shutters. 
Shake off any bees that may be loitering in the stock hive, re- 
move the box out of sight, and the bees will soon find their 
way into their new domicile. 

If ‘An Amarrur” should not be in the habit of using bar- 
hives, he must make a simple box to receive the bars of his 
unicomb, and in this case he need not be particular as to the 
length of the bar he chooses. He would find four bars of 
16 inches in length and made to carry combs of 9 inches in 

“depth, would make a very nice-sized unicomb. In other 
respects he may follow the directions I have given. 

Towards the close of autumn, or when the observatory hive 
is no longer needed, the outer doors are unhunug, the glass 
sides removed, and the bars, combs, and bees transferred into 
the stock box, which must occupy the same position as that 
to which the bees have been accustomed. It will generally be 
necessary to afford the bees a liberal supply of artificial food, or 
a full comb-or two from another stock may begiven. I omitted 
to say that when bar-and-frame hives are in use in an apiary, an 
observatory hive constructed on this principle may be stocked 
at a moment’s notice. It is only necessary to visit any pro- 
sperous stocks, and to remove the requisite number of combs 
and bees. 

I hope the description and directions given will be sufficient 
for the guidance of ‘‘AN AmaTEUR BEE-KEEPER,”’ but if he 
should require further information I shall be happy to assist 
him to the best of my power.—S. Brvan Fox, Eveter. 


THE ECONOMIC, A NEW DEPRIVING HIVE. 


Ons of the objects which I have had before me in bee-keeping 
has been to improve the system as generally practised amongst 
my neighbours; but hitherto the great hindrance has been 
the want of a really good depriving hive at a moderate price—a 
want frequently expressed in your Journal. 

In conjunction with Mr. James Lee, of Windlesham, I have 
endeavoured to supply this want by introducing a hive at a 
moderate price, combining all the most recent improvements. 
The lower part, or stock-box, is simply a well-made round straw 
hive with a flat top like Payne’s, but with no hole in the centre, 
the communication with the super being removed from the 
centre towards the sides of the top, as in the accompanying 


figure, thus removing the great objection to Payne’s hive, the 
liability of the queen ascending into the super and depositing 
brood, it being now a well-ascertained fact that she is most un- 
likely to ascend where the communications are at the sides of 
the top. 

The great difficulty in making the openings at the side of the 
top was to avoid weakening the crown of the hive, and to get a 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 155 


perfectly even surface to allow of the true adjustment of the 
adapting-board. This, of course, has holes corresponding with 
those in the straw, is wasp-proof, and may be of any shape. Ia 
the present instance it is octagonal to correspond with an oc- 
tagonal super. Perhaps it would be as well to fasten down the 
adapting-board permanently with brass screws before using the 
hive. This octagonal super is of wood, 13 inches wide by 5} deep, 
inside measurement, and has two small windows to show when 
the comb is sealed, is fitted with moveable ribbed bars ag in the 
Woodbury supers, and like them has a glass top in a wooden 
frame, which affords a good view of the super. This top can 
be removed for the abstraction of the combs. 

As regards the price, Mr. Lee will supply the complete hive, 
including straw stock-box, floor-board, adapting-board, and 
octagonal as above, at 10s.6d. Considering its many advan- 
tages and moderate price, we have named it, by way of dis- 
tinction, the Economic Hive. 

Another consideration in view in the construction of this 
hive was to meet the wants of those who cannot afford a shed 
or the protection necessary for a wooden hive. This hive may 
be sufficiently protected by an American cheese-box and the 
old-fashioned milk-pan. These should not rest immediately on 
the top of the hive, but be slightly raised by small blocks of 
wood to allow the air to circulate between them, in order to 
keep the hive cool. At the same time there is nothing equal 
to a shed open in front, if it can be had or conveniently placed. 
All depriving hives require as much shade as possible, especially 
from midday and afternoon sun. 

Lastly, to meet the wants of those who cannot afford 10s. 6d., 
Mr. Lee has agreed to sell the straw hive constructed on the 
above principle separately at 2s. 9d., or 15s. the half dozen. 
With this asa basis, any man of ordinary intelligence may 
easily construct a perfect depriving hive. A piece of wood for 
an adapting-board is easily obtained, and boxes of all shapes 
and sizes may be had at a very moderate price at the grocers’. 
A lady sends me all her milliner’s boxes for the purpose. If 
preferred, two supers can be used side by side, the second being 
put on when the first is half filled with comb, or when the bees 
seem to require more room. 

For further particulars about the Economic Hive I musi 
refer your readers to Mr. Lee, whose advertisement appears in 
your columns.—H. C. Riprtey, Burton Abbots Vicarage, Oxon. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


CAPONISING (Alpha).—It is a cruel, dangerous, and needless practice. 
Cramming is equally so, for a fowl cooped and fed naturally on nourish- 
ing food will fatten in a few days. The town you mention is surpassed 
by others since the introduction of railways. 

BRauMA Hens’ Backs FEATHERLESS (G. R.).—In other breeds we 
should say that their mates had pecked them, but that is unusual with 
Brahmas. If the swelling and redness are in what we should call the 
abdomen it is perhaps natural; but if it be all round the insertion of the 
tail, then their companions have had to do with them, and all you can do 
is to separate them. Rub the bare places with compound sulphur oint- 
ment, and give the birds plenty of large sods of growing grass cut with 
8 or4inches of mould. They eat the feathers because they lack some- 
thing their runs do not afford. 


Dark or Licut BrauMas (Woodlark).—There is no difference in the 
Brahmas except the colour. The Light have the same properties as the 
Dark, and in some shows they have been equally numerous. Itis wicked 
and unprofitable to stop the desire to sit in a hen, and it is almost im- 
possible. Every man thinks the world was made for Czsar, and that 
heis Cesar. A man asks whether,if he pick the breast of a hen and 
whip it with stinging nettles, it will make her sit! 

ScurF on Cocutns’ Lees (Lemon Buff).—We do not believe it to be 
infectious, but we would not risk it. Sulphur ointment is the application 
for it. Canary seed and millet in the spray are the best food for Grass 
Parakeets. They like green food. 

PHEASANTS ARE NOT PouLtRY (W. F.).—For a cup to be awarded for 
the most points in poultry, Pheasants ought not to be allowed to contend. 


D1sEAsED DorxInes (A Constant Reader).—They have diarrhea, caused 
probably by the changeable weather. Give each fowl five grains of 
powdered chalk, one grain of opium, and one grain of powdered ipe- 
cacuanha twice a-day until the looseness is checked, accompanied by a 
warm soft diet, such as oatmeal mashed with a little wari ale. 


JcupcinG Brawaras (J. L.).—It is impossible for us to give the reasons 
for the awards made by the Judges. The single fact that we know 
nothing of the competing pens or their merits would prevent us. But, 
speaking of general ideas, we have no reason to be silent. In an open 
class, where all ages come into competition, a careful judge should weigh 
the merits of each, taking age into consideration. The young should not 
suffer from their want of age as compared with their elders. Itis their 
disadvantage that they have no class forthemselves. Mere weight should 
not decide, because the chickens in that point cannot compare with 
adults. The latter have an advantage in their freshness and the beauty 
of their plumage. These points should be allowed as a counterpoise to 
those parts that are the peculiar properties of age. We do not believe 
that any of our experienced judges pass over chickens because they are 
chickens, and we think you will do better to agitate for separate classes 


rather than withdraw from exhibiting. 


156 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. { February 23, 1871. 


Cocutx’s Coxsp Tips WuiteE (E. D. W.).—The cock’s comb is frozen. 
Rub it thoroughly and frequently with very strong camphor ointment. 


BREEDING Brace Hamecrcus (Black Hamburgh).—We are unable to 
give you positive answers to your question. With regard to mating your 
birds, you must buy your own experience. Birds take, as a rule, more 
after the hen than the cock. Presuming you have cocks and hens of the 
Black Hamburgh well bred on each side and of different strains, we 
advise you to mix the two, putting in each case a cock of different strain 
with the hens. In these manufactured breeds it is not necessary con- 
stantly to have recourse to the component parts. It is only when some 
essential property appears to be dying out that a bird possessing that 
particular point should be introduced. If we had two pens intended for 
the manufacture, we should put the darkest Golden-spangled Hamburgh 
hens we could find witha Spanish cock, and the darkest cock with Spanish 
hens; we should then interbreed with the produce. If you are bent on 
making your own birds you can do so, but where there are 50 many good 
specimens to be bought we are inclined to think “le jew ne vaut pas la 
chandelle.” 


Mate For A Lemon Burr Cocutn Cock (dlpha).—You do not tell us 
the bird you wish to produce. If Silver Cinuamon, put hens with French 
white bodies and light brown necks. If Buff, take hens or pullets of one 
entirely very dark buff shade all over. There must be no mixture, or it 
will perpetuate the mealy wing in the cock. If Lemon, choose lemon. 
but without a lighter hackle. Give your sick fowls some chalk pounded 
and mixed with their food. 


Dorxermc CHIckEns’ ToEs DisTorTED (B. B.).—We cannot tell why the 
toes of your chickens turn the wrong way, unless they are kept on an 
improper floor, such as wood, stone, or brick. If they are, either remove 
them, or, if that is inconvenient, cover the flooring with dry dust or road 
grit some inches thick. If there be no reason of this sort, we should say, 
at any rate, they will grow up so slightly deformed jas to cause it to be 
immaterial at an exhibition. 


Fow1s For EcG-PRopuctTion (Kettering).—Pencilled Hamburghs lay a 
large number of eggs. They did so in this case, as we consider the num- 
ber you have named a Jarge result. We know none that would lay more, 
but some would lay them larger. Brahmas, Spanish, and Créye-Cceurs 
are all good layers, and do well in confinement. The two last lay very 
large eggs. 

FLoorninG oF A Potttry Rtn (EZ. M.).—The flooring of the house 
should be of hard earth, the rest of the ron, earth; in one corner a 
heap of road grit. in the otaera heap of bricklayers’ rubbish. Fowls in 
confinement should have as often as possible, sods of growing grass cut 
with plenty of mould to them. Give barleymeal instead of whole corn. 
The kitchen scraps are good. Potatoes are not so. 


Cross BETWEEN BLAcK HaMBURGH AND Brack Game (T. B.).—If you 
breed as you propose, we believe you will have some very good Black 
Hamburghs among the produce. You must expect a good many single 
combs, and must not breed from them again. 


OaTMEAL (W.).—We hope to give the information shortly. 


GrotnD Oats (Oxoniensis)—The sample you enclosed is food spoiled. 
The oats we spoke of are ground, husks and all. so fine that they mix-up 
into a paste without any appearance of bran. We bought them for years 
of Mr. Agate, Slaugham Mills, near Crawley. We do not know whether 
they are to be had there now or not, but they are largely used in Sussex. 
We are told it is necessary to have stones dress«d on purpose to grind 
oats sufficiently fine for poultry food. Fowls will not eat such as you 
enclose to us, nor will such mix. We hope shortly to be able to give an 
address where a better sample may be had. We cannot tell you where 
you should buy Scotch oatmeal. 


CrusHED Oats (H. J. O.).—Whether damped or dry, they are more 
nourishing for fowls than pollard. 

CaRLIsLE SHow -—Mr. J. Mashiter, Ulverston, sent a Brown Red cockerel 
and pullet (Class 36), and has had a Brown Red cock and hen returned— 


“‘T find I have taken prizes under the name of S. H. Stowe, in Dorkings, | 


and Rouen and Aylesbury Ducks.—S. H. Storr, Rochdale.” 


Dtcr’s Eees DiscoLotrep (C. F. F.).—The eggs are faulty, because 
the Duck is out of health, and her secretions are at fault. The proof ofit 
is patent. You have two Ducks both treated alike; one lays good eggs, 
the other bad unes. Itis, then, from no general cause. Catch her, shut 
ber up, and feed on oats mixed in a shallow yessel with growing sods and 
gravel. Feed sparingly. 

Eeyptian Runts (W. M.).—We have seen Runts brought straight from 
Egypt, they were white in colour, and had the appearance of English 
Runts, only smaller. Very probably they were what English Runts were 
until bred to vast bulk as fancy birds. It wouid be a guin, regarding 
Pigeons in a commercial sense, if a smaller and prolific Runt could be 
generally cultivated, as the fancy birds are the reverse of prolific. 


Frrixe Tumerers (X.Y. Z., Hull).—1st, Your Pigeons never could have 
tumbled, as they certainly would not h:ve lost that power. After being 
shut up, Tumblers on being let out always fly and tumble prodigiously. 
2nd, Tue eggs will not be affected beyond the first pair. We have tried 
it constantly. 


CanaRY NoT Srxcine (Idem'.—Most likely your bird is covered with 
red mites, and so out of health. If the cage is old burnit. Then dust 
sulphur in the feathers of the bird. 


CanaRy MANAGEMENT (Several Correspondents}—We hope Mr. Blsk- 
ston next week will commence a series of papers upon the subject. 


Canarky’s Heap Scurry (C. H. Butler)—Rub the part affected witha 
small piece of fresh butter or sweet oil, and supply the bird with green 
food as soon as it can be had. In place of chickweed give watercress, 
the heart of a cabbage, a piece of apple, or leaf of lettuce if any can be 
obtained.—W. A. B. 


Canaky’s SEIN IRRITATED (Ridiculus Mus)—Discontinue the hemp, 
and supply with such green food ascan be procured at this season. Vide 
reply to ** C.H. Butler.” Add linseed and summerrape to his Canary seed. 
Use the bath frequently, and keep up a low temperature.—W. A. B. 


Parrots Movuitinc (H.).—Warmth and extra nourishment are indis- 
pensable. You should alter the food thus, according to an authority on 
the subject—* Hempseed and Indian corn given separately, each twice 
a-week, bread and milk, with a fewchilies cut small once a-week. On 


the seed days a little saffron steeped in the water. If great difficulty 
in the moult, give captain’s biscuits soaked, and made hot with cayenne, 
about three times a-week, and put some liquorice in the water.” If the 
moult goes on quite favourably, and the bird appears cheerfal, but little 
alteration from the common diet need be made, warmth is the great 
requisite. 

CoNSERVATORY Aviary (Canary)—A conservatory is not a good place 
in which to breed Canaries. The better plan is to fit-up a room for the 
purpose. Put-up the birds early in March, but much depends upon the 
state of the weather, situation, aspect, &c. As a rule, there ought te be 
no young Canaries till the old ones can see to feed them at six o'clock 
in the morning.—W. A. B. 


A Hive’s Prospects (P. F. L.).—The stock appears to have gone 
through the winter in good condition, and you may therefore fairly ex- 
pect one or more swarms in May or June. These you csn place in such 
a description of hive or hives as may best please you; or you may, if you 
prefer it, try working your stock on the depriving system by cutting 2 
3 or 4inch hole in the crown of the straw hive with a penknife, and 
cementing thereupon with good mortar a wooden platform (whichshould 
be clamped to prevent warping), of sufficient size to accommodate an 
adequate super. 

Exety Waite Couz.—Jane is anxious to procure some empty white 
comb to put into glass supers. She will, therefore, be much obliged if 
anyone will send her some, or let her know where she can procure any. 
She will send a post-office order or stamps in payment. Her address is 
at the office of this Journal. 


METEOROLOGLCAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CamMDEN, SquaRE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° S’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Da TE. 94m. Is THE Day. 
5 | Shade Tem-)_ Radiation y 
1s71. | Direc- | Temp. | perature. |Temperature| & 
tion of jof Soil) —__ = 7 =e 
Wind. | at1 ft. nm 
Eee Max.| Min. } Sun. Grass. 
| deg. deg.| deg. | In. 
| S. | 372 ait at a 
SW. 37.8 4. — 
i | “Ww. | 393 799 | 380 | — 
Sa S.W. | 39.7 Gil | 37.7 | — 
Sun. S.W. | 405 911 | 40.1 | 0.010 
Mo. 20 W. | 40:8 $9.7 42.8 | 0.070 
Ta. 21 N. | 41.2 87.8 | 35.2 | 0.018 
Means | | 395 | soa | 415 | 773 | ast | 0.098 
REMARKS. 


| 15th._Rain began at 9 4.1, but only a few drops fell; a dull day. 


16th.—Dull day, except a little sunshine about noon. 

17th.—Fine mild morning. 

18th.—Fresh wind after 5 p.m. i, 

19th.—Very fine till 5 p.., shower, damp evening; gale at nisht. 

20th.—Fine breezy day, shower 11.25 to 11.40 a.m, fine sunset. 5 

21st.—Very fine mornivg, rather dull afternoon, shower in the evening. a 
A very mild week, temperature equal to that usual in the first week o$ 

April. Barometer rising fast on the 21st.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—FEBRUARY 22. 


Tue markets here have been tolerably firm during the past week, and 
former quotations fully maintained. Cornish Broccoli is now becoming 
plentiful and is a great acquisition. A considerabie demand has been 
made among the waterside houses for ordinary Potatoes for shipment 
to France during the last fortnight ; a few frame Ashleayed are to hand, 
to 1s. to 2s. per Ib. 


FRUIT. 
s.d. 5. a) ae TA ce none é 
S.cceceeeeee.d Sieve 1 6 toS 0} Mulberries............ID. 00 0 
eS ~- doz. 0 0 O Q | Nectarines doz 00 00 
Cherries.. ...lb. 0 0 O OQ) Oranges... 2}10 60 100 
Chestnuts. bushel 10 0 18 G} Peaches .. doz, 00 O00 
Currants.. tsieve 0 0 O G| Pears,kitchen doz. 10 80 
Black -do. 92 0 O OG} __ dessert... doz 30 So 
Figs .... doz. 0 0 0 0} Pine Apples -.--lb. 6 O 10 0 
Filberts Ib. 0 0 2 0} lums.... gsieve 00 0 0 
Cobs.. -Ib. 2 0 2 6} Quinces doz 00 00 
Gooseberries......quart 0 0 0 O| Raspberries.. -lb 0 0 0 0 
Grapes, Hothouse.... lb. 6 0 12 0 Strawberries -lb. 0 0 0 0 
Lemons............ #100 6 0 10 0} Walnuts...... ushel 10 0 16 0 
Melons...........--.each 10 ¢ 0| GO... ccececeuees 2100 1 0 2 0 
VEGETABLES. 
8. 
to | Leeks ............ to 
1 | Lettuce .. 
| Mushrooms pottle 
| Mustard & Cress..punnet 
| Onions .... . bushel 
pickling. u 
Parsley... . . Sieve 
Parsnips -. doz. 
5 quart 
Potatoes.. 


Kidney.. 2 e220. 
Radishes .. Sone 


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March 2, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 157 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day ree ini | | | ctock | Day | 
: | ge Tempera- | Rainin; Sun Sun Moon Moon Moon’s | | y 
aie a MARCH 2—8, 1871. | tare near London. |43 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets. Age. | petore rose 
2 : : | Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. |m. h.|m. h.|m. h.|m. h.| Days. | m. 5 
2 | Tu | Meeting of Royal and Linnean Societies. | 48.7 | 84.7 | 41.7 | 17 46af6 | 39af5 | after. | 18af 4 ll | 12 24] 61 
3 |F |} 49.9 | 822 | 410 | 14 |44 6/41 5/20 1| 6 5] 12 |12 11] 62 
4 Ss | 49.7 31.5 | 40.6 WW | 42 6) 48 5/26 2/46 5 13 | 11 58 63 
5 | Sun | 2 Sunpay my Lent. 48.9 | 81.8 | 40.8 16 40 6/45 5 | 41° 8/19 6 14 11 44! 64 
6 M Meeting of Entomological Society, 7 p.1t. 48.6 | 32.2 | 40.4 18 ,;38 6/46 5/58 4/45 6 15°20! <305)' 165 
7 Tu Meeting of Zoological Society, 9 P.M. | 49.1 | $2.4 | 40.7 18 386 6/48 5 | 18 6 SAT, oO |i11 16 66 
8 Ww Meeting of Society of Arts, 8 p.m. | 49.1 | 31.5 | 40.3 18 846 | 50 5 | 38 7 |30 7 LT yl | 67 
| | 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, 
perature 32.3°. 
0.48 inch. 


The greatest heat was 70°, on the 4th, 1860; and the lowest cold 14°, on the 3rd, 1862. 


the average day temperature of the week is 491°, and its night tem- 
The greatest fall of rain was 


RAISING AND PLANTING-OUT SUCCESSFULLY 
EARLY PEAS. 


> a F all the important kitchen-garden plants 


cultivator, being but slightly different in their 
character, than early Peas. This is suffi- 
ciently exemplified in the numerous seed 


cating his own kinds, yet each of these, 


merly well-known variety slightly altered by 
local influences. However, it is to be hoped 
in time to come, for the benefit of the private gardener, that, 
as much as possible, the number of nominally new varieties 
may be restricted to the most trusty kinds. 

A few days ago I planted out my first earlies. The kinds 
are Sutton’s Ringleader and Dickson's First and Best. I 
adopted what I may call (at least it is so to me), a compara- 
tively new method of raising early Peas. A little more than 


three weeks ago I had a lot of boxes prepared. These were | 


about 2 feet long by about 1 foot broad, and 4 inches deep. 
Ihad placed on their bottoms three rows of nicely-prepared 
anyerted turves, almost fresh, and fitting neatly to each 
other. 
a slight coating of good soil. Then, all being ready, on the 
top of the rows of turf the lines of Peas were sown. This 
done, I had the seed covered with a couple of inches of 
good soil, and the sowing was complete. I had the boxes 


placed on the floor of a vinery on the move, and they | 


remained there till the Peas had pushed fully an inch 
above ground, after which time they were removed to a 
cooler Peach house to harden off the young plants. 

On a tempting fine day last week I wanted a number of 


boxes for other purposes, and not having too many I thought | 
in such weather I could not do better than transplant | 


some Peas to their quarters out of doors. Accordingly I 


at once prepared a place for planting, by well forking and | 


levelling the ground, which had previously been prepared 
in the autumn as for most early crops. The situation 
selected was at the back of a south border, nearly at the 
base of a Peach wall. As soon as the ground was ready, 
I had a line stretched at a distance of 6 feet from the 
bottom of the wall, and by it I cut out a trench the same 
as for laying Box, only a little deeper, so as to receive 
some additional fresh loam at the time of planting. I 
next began to lift the Peas out of their boxes, for these 
had been just taken out of the Peach house, and with the 
assistance of a flattened curved piece of iron which I found 
at hand, I easily managed to remove the first row without 
injuring the roots. This was the only row that gave me any 
anxiety in taking it out, for the remaining two rows were 
lifted out without any difficulty with my hands. Thus, with- 
out the slightest injury to the roots, and in the most simple 
manner, all the Peas were transferred from the boxes to 
their new quarters. 
were dense masses of loose, beautiful, white roots, and, put 
into the ground as they were, success may be expected. 
One row having been put in as described, I had ready 
No. 518—Vou. XX., NEw SERIES. 


none are in greater variety to perplex the | 


catalogues, almost every nurseryman advo- | 


apparently to a great extent, only some for- | 


On the top of the turf, in all the boxes, I sprinkled’ 


The pieces of turf when taken out | 


las many hand-lights as would reach to the end of the line, 


and on consideration I thought I could not do better than 
put in a second row a foot or so distant from the first one, 
so that I might, as much as possible, take advantage of 
the temporary glass. I also thought on the closeness of 
| the plants, but they can easily be staked out. I therefore 
forked-up ground enough as before, and put in another 
row, as in the previous case, only a foot nearer the wall. 
Both rows having been planted, they received a gentle 
watering, and the hand-glasses were at once put over them. 
The tops of the lights have been taken off every day since 
planting, and I have noticed that the progress of the 
plants has been regular, so that, after all our severe 
weather, I look forward to have a nice lot of fine early 
Peas. 

The above plan of treating early Peas, as far as the use 
of the turf is concerned, I have not seen anywhere tried 
before. However, the method is most excellent, and as 
the rearing of a good stock of fine early Peas is a matter 
of great importance to a large number of your readers, I 
have thought it worthy of notice—Roserr Mackerar. 


FORCING PELARGONIUMS. 


Wuew successfully grown, I know of no plants that will 
repay their cultivator better than those belonging to this 
branch of the Pelargonium family. Their treatment is 
| very simple, and easy to understand, involving little labour, 
' and hardly any expense, but in its results affording much 
pleasure and profit. These Pelargoniums are more valuable, 
perhaps, to the gentleman’s gardener and grower for sale 
| than to the amateur; still the latter, if he has a heated 
glass structure, may, with a little care and attention, grow 
them successfully. From what I have seen of several 
gardens for some time past I do not consider the varieties 
referred to are so generally grown as their good qualities 
entitle them to be. I think they cannot be excelled by 
any other class of plants for furnishing a rich display in 
| the conservatory throughout April and during part of May; 
I do not mean isolated specimens here and there, but a 
| batch of two or three dozen well-grown, neatly-staked, 
| and tastefully-arranged plants. Or. if they are required to 
| furnish only cut flowers for sale, or for supplying a family 
in London (and this is what most gardeners are required 
'to do at the present season), a gardener cannot find in 
| any other plant a more generous and a less capricious 
| friend. 

The varieties which I have found most useful for the 
purpose are Alma and Crimson King among the dark- 
coloured kinds, the latter especially carrying some very 
large beautiful trusses excellent for cut flowers ; Queen of 
| February and Alba Multiflora among the light-coloured 
ones; Phyllis, too, another light variety, will force, but is 
| not so well adapted for the purpose as those previously 
named. 
| The cuttings may be struck any time between February 
and the end of September; February and July being, per- 
_ haps, the best times for the purpose. 
| Ishall suppose that the cuttings are struck in February. 
No. 1170.—Vot. XLV., OLD SERIES 


158 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 2, 1871. 


In selecting them it will appear almost needless for me to say 
that the stiffer and dwarfer they are the better, and I would 
not mention this were it not that no man can grow a good 
plant from a drawn lanky cutting. The cuttings should be 
inserted singly in thumb-pots, in soil composed of loam and 
silver sand in equal proportions, and placed under hand-glasses 
in a brisk sweet heat. 

When the cuttings are struck and beginning to grow, the 
centre should be pinched out in order to induce them to form 
shoots. When they have done so they should be shifted into 
pots a size larger, using the same compost, and be replaced in 
the same situation, shading and keeping them close to the glass 
for a week or ten days. They may then be removed to a jit 


haying no more heat than that which can be husbanded from | 


the sun, and the amount of which will be considerable by the 
time the plants arrive at this stage. Whilst they are here do not 
admit much air, and shut up early in the afternoon. When 
the shoots produced from the first stopping have developed 
three or four leaves the points should be again pinched out to 
induce the formation of more shoots, after which the plants 
must be shifted into pots a size larger, using some well-decom- 
posed manure in the compost. Shade the plants, and keep 
them close until they overcome the effects of the potting. 
Afterwards, they must have an abundance of air by day and a 
little by night. A light shading with thin tiffany for about 
three hours in the middle of the day, during midsummer, will 
benefit them. Since their last stopping the plants will again 
have produced more shoots, which may be pinched back as 
before, and now for thelast time. I may remark, with reference 
to stopping the plants, that to secure a good regular head of 
bloom it is absolutely necessary to stop each shoot at the same 
time, not, as is too often the practice, stopping a few to-day 
and a few more in the course of a week or two. 
ill placed shoots had better be removed whenever perceived. 

The plants should be potted for the last time about the end 
of July or the beginning of August in a compost consisting of 
two parts turfy loam, one part leaf mould, and one part rotten 
cow dung, with a good sprinkling of silver sand. The pots 
must be efficiently drained, using the riddlings of turf to cover 
the crocks, and never giving the plants a large shift. Afford 
plenty of room at all times if possible. Attend carefully to 
their watering ; they will require a liberal supply of water—often 
twice a-day—during the summer. Keep the plants close to the 
glass throughout their growing season, but not too close in 
winter, on account of the fluctuating temperature—extreme 
heat by day and extreme cold at night—which I believe to be 
the principal cause of ‘‘ spot” on the leaves. 

The plants should not be introduced into heat until it is 
certain that the flower buds are formed on each shoot—a fact 
which is easily ascertained by a practical hand, even before 
the buds can be seen, by noticing the plump appearance of the 
ends of the shoots. The plants should never be subjected to 
too high a temperature, and on no account should they be kept 
far irom the glass. While developing their blossoms they will 
be benefited by frequent waterings with clear manure water. 
At this time they may be neatly staked with green stakes, and 
on the morning of a fine day taken to the conservatory, where 
ny will amply compensate for all time and labour spent on 

em. 

When the plants have done blooming, place them out of 
doors on an open space of ground, gradually withholding water 
from them in order to ripen their wood thoroughly. About 
the middle of July they should be cut back to two or three 
eyes on each shoot, and be placed in a close pit to be started, 
as is usual with Pelargoniums. When they have sufficiently 
broken, put them into the same sized pots; they should not 
be potted or stopped after this. Fumigate frequently to keep 
down aphis. 

Treated thus, Pelargoniums of this class will flower well for 
four or five years. After securing a stock it is well to propagate 
a dozen or more as desired every year, in order that a corre- 
sponding number of worn-out older plants may be thrown 
away.—QO. Tuomas, Drayton Manor Gardens. 


RUMEX OBTUSIFOLIA. 


I am beginning to think that Rumex obtusifolia will become 
a very ornamental plant, and may be styled the ‘‘ Poor-man’s 
Caladium.” Ihave had some very striking forms of variegation 
in this plant, and about half of them will come true from seeds. 
The variegation is from pure white to golden yellow, in irre- 
gular markings, and sometimes the two hues combined with 


All weak or | 


their intermediate shades; and occasionally a pure white or 
yellow leaf is produced, and is very beautiful with its red or 
pink veins. 

I have grown Rumex obtusifolia as a pot plant, and although 
only a Dock it would be difficult to find a handsomer plant of 
the character for a cool greenhouse during March, April, and 
the beginning of May, after which time it may be planted out, 
to be repotted in the autumn. If well managed, in the second 
year one may produce magnificent specimens fit to adorn any 
nobleman’s garden. I expect to be sneered at for advocating 
the cultivation of such ‘‘rascally weeds” as Rumex obtusifolia. 

Of R. acetosa and Acetosella there are numerous variegated 
sports, but none that I have seen are of sufficient constancy to 
warrant me in recommending their cultivation.—W. E., Gar- 
dener, Cromwell House. 


THE CAMELLIA, AND ITS CULTURE—No. 2. 


I now proceed to speak of General Culture. A good base to 
work upon in the cultivation of any particular plant is far- 
nished by ascertaining the precise conditions under which it 
exists in its native habitats. We are not bound to follow these 
conditions slavishly in ell the details of practice, but whatever 
the modifications we introduce we should never lose sight of 
the natural life of the plant. No doubt the best way to deal 
with the Camellia is to plant it in a span-roofed house 30 
or 40 feet high in the highest part. The top lights of the 
house should be moveable, and removed during May; June, 
July, and August, and a light shading be made to take their 
place during the day. If the lights cannot be removed, in 
spring and summer a light shading of tiffany should be run 
under the glass. Shading is essential during the flowering 
season and from the time the young leaves expand. The soil 
should be effectively drained when the beds are formed. A very 
slight heating-power will suffice, but we cannot altogether ex- 
clude this from our calculations. : 

But however desirable ground culture may be, the Camellia 
must remain a pot plant for the mavy. The chief points 
demanding attention under this head are—repotting, watering, 
and pruning. 

Once a-year at least, in August, every plant should be turned 
out of its pot and thoroughly examined. If the soil has worked 
into the rubble at the base of ihe pot or tub in such manner as 


_to impede the free egress of water, remove the old rubble, 


and substitute fresh. If any worms are seen pull them out. 
Examine the ball of earth closely to see that the water has in 
the past percolated every part of it. If it has not, pierce the 
ball in various parts with an iron pin in such a manner as not 
to injure the roots, and set it in a tub of water, leaying it 
there until thoroughly soaked through. Plants that require 
larger pots or tubs, of which we must judge by the quantity 
and condition of the roots, may be at once transferred to such. 
The new soil required to fill the outer circle of the larger pots 
should be pressed down firmly with the fingers or a stick, so 
that the outer circle of earth may be at once almost as solid as 
the inner circle. , : 

Watering is a point of the very first importance. It is here 
that the dog is often starved, and, perhaps, as often surfeited. 
The ill name he has acquired is, I believe, in nine cases out of 
ten due to too much or too little water. A copious supply 
should be given during the flowering and growing seasons 
when real work is going on, but at other times great caution is 
needed. Iam favourable to the practice of watering freely at 
long intervals as the plant becomes dry, rather than to the 
common practice of giving small doses at shorter intervals. 
The starved appearance, the yellow :ickly leaves often met 
with, if not due to too poor a soil, are due to injudicious water- 
ing. Rain or pond water should be used in preference to auy 
other, and water containing lime should be studiously avoided. 
The practised hand can tell when a plant wants water by 
rapping or lifting the pot, thus testing the condition of the 
goil by sound and weight; but by others, whether water is re- 
quired or not may be pretty accurately judged of by the look 
of the plant, and by stirring the surface of the soil. 

Hither too much or too little water during the season of rest 
will cause the dropping of the flower-buds before expansion. 
These results, however, are not due to this cause alone, but to 
any fault of cultivation that induces debility. | There are, too, 
some kinds which are naturally or constitutionally liable to 
this defect, and others the flowers of which expand with difi- 
culty. The best advice I can give with regard to such is to 
have nothing to do with them, they are the surly dogs of the 


March 2, 1871. ] 


pack, and there are plenty in the pack of equal beauty and 
more accommodating disposition. 

Pruning is an important operation, and should be performed 
in spring just after the flowering season, but before the new 
growth commences. If the plants have been skilfully grown 
but little pruning is necessary, only just as much as will keep 
them in shape. It is not advisable to cut back into wood of 
more than one year’s growth, as the dormant eyes on old wood 
do not readily push forth. They may, however, be stimulated 
to do go by the agency of ground heat; and under this head I 
would allude to and condemn the barbarous practice of cutting 
Camellia flowers with wood two years old adhering to the 
flowers for the sake of obtaining a long stalk. Scrubby, poverty- 
stricken, and misshapen plants are very apt to result from this 
practice. 

It is well known that the Camellia as a pot plant grows 
slowly, and like most. evergreens from temperate and cold 
climates it requires a lengthened period of rest. The first six 
months of the year are in this climate the natural period of 
flowering and growth; and during the second six months the 
plants should bo kept in a state of comparative rest. During 
the season of growth we make the foliage and set the flowers ; 
during the season of comparative rest we establish the quality 
of the flowers. 

What gardeners term sporting is a characteristic of the 
Camellia. The Peoniflora will often produce red and white 
flowers on the same plant. Press’s Eclipse usually produces 
striped flowers, but occasionally a red or a creamy-white flower 
will appear. Many of the striped kinds will also produce at 
times self-coloured flowers. 

When removing the plants from the open air in September, 
the flower-buds, if too numerous, should in part be removed. 

The green fly occasionally attacks the Camellia, but is easily 
disposed of by tobacco smoke. The scale is a more trouble- 
some though less common enemy. It may be removed by a 
brush. For the health as well as for the appearance of the 
plants they should be kept clean, and that useful domestic 
article known as soap is all that is required for the purpose. 
Syringing with soapsuds occasionally is an excellent plan, and 
if the suds pass to the roots it will benefit rather than injure 
them. 

With regard to the best varieties of the Camellia opinions 
on this point will probably differ, according to whether the 
individual flower or the general decorative character of the 
plant is most valued. The Double White combines these 
qualities, but there are others which possess them singly. 
Many of the Anemone-flowered varieties are among the most 
valuable for decorative purposes, and they flower profusely and 
grow more rapidly, ultimately forming large umbrageous trees. 
The species known as reticulata is gorgeous as a conservatory 
plant, but the florist would likely pronounce the flowers loose 
and untidy inappearance. Ishall, therefore, recommend a list 
of twenty-five varieties from each separate point of view. 

As florists’ flowers I select :— : 


Cup of Beauty Jenny Lind 
Vicomte de Nieulante Storyii 
Reine des Beautés Mrs. Cope 
Augustina Superba Bealii 
Princess Bacchiochi Sarah Frost 
Mrs. Abbey Wilder Adriana 
Saccoiana Nova Rafia 
Countess of Orkney Ubertina 
Souvenir d’Emile Defresne M. D’Offoy 
Alba plena Dante 
Fimbriata Jubilee 
Valtavaredo Aulica 
Imbricata 


As conservatory plants I should choose the following :— 


Lavinia Maggi Fimbriata 
Marchioness of Exeter Chandlerii 
Comte Boutourlin Imbricata 
Countess of Derby Elegans 
Catherine Longhi Conspicua 
Lucrezia Gazzarrini Donckelaeri 
Queer Victoria Reticulata — 
Prince Albert Corallina, 
Duchesse d’ Orléans Formosa 
Henri Favre Picturata 
Mathotiana Eximia 
Bonomiana Monarch 
Alba plena. | 


In conclusion permit mo to reiterate the opinion, that the 
Camellia, far from deserving the ill name it has acquired, far 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


159 


from being a difficult subject to deal with, is one of the least 
expensive in its habits, and one of the most tractable in its 
nature to be met with in the whole range of flowering plants. 
But before venturing to deal with it, it is only reasonable that 
we should ascertain its nature and requirements. What can 
we expect if we persist in keeping the dog unduly shui up, or 
in feeding him on unsuitable or insufficient diet ?—WiLL1am 
Pavu, Paul's Nurseries, Waltham Cross. 


VINES’ DEATH UNEXPLAINED—PERVERSITY 
OF PEARS—HEATED BORDER FOR 


EARLY VINERY. 

“A Constant Ruapnr’s” Vines (see page 124), are planted 
outside and taken through the wall—has he looked to see if 
the rats have not barked them just where they enter the house? 
T had a young Vine or two served in that way last year; they 
did not push, but the others grew very well. 

The Pear you named for me (Knight’s Monarch) was grown 
against a south wall. I had 150 similar to the specimen sent, 
and I intend propagating the variety rather largely, as there 
are only a few late Pears which are really good here (Yorkshire). 
For instance, I cannot ripen well Beurré de Rance and Ne 
Plus Meuris, yet Knight’s Monarch and Glou Mor¢eau are good. 
The vagaries of Pears are very strange. Out of abcut fifty 
varieties grown here there are not more than twelve really good. 
All my Pears and Apples are on walls, and so are the Plums. 
Can you give me a hint or two as to ripening the two Pears I 
have mentioned ?—J. W. K. 


[Were the stems outside the house sufficiently protected 
from the frost whilst the stems inside were being forced? We 
had several Vines once killed in this way, and we knew of a 
similar case near here this winter. There are many situations 
in which Beurré de Rance does not succeed well; we should, 
however, have thought that Ne Plus Meuris would have done 
well. It succeeds as an open standerd in the London district. 
We can only suggest to you to expose your fruit well to the 
sun, and especially to allow all Jate Pears to hang as long as 
possible on the tree.—Eps.] 


Was the dressing applied hot to ‘‘ Constant READER’S”’ 
Vines, as sometimes men will heat the dressing to make it 
work better? It should never be applied hotter than it would 
become from being placed on a flue or on the pipes. Are the 
Vines more than one year old? as, if so, it would not be a case 
of unripened wood. I see nothing particularly objectionable in 
the dressing or in the boiling. I always boil my dressing, as 
it blends the materials so much better; but compounds, such 
as the Gishurst, are sometimes of uncertain strengths. The 
same remark applies to. tobacco paper. I use homegrown 
tobacco stalks chopped fine and well boiled. For Gishurst 
compound I substitute soft soap, together with a little soot and 
lime, which mixture, if put on at a temperature of 50°, would 
never cause any mischief. I have applied it to the Vines in 
five houses, to Peach trees, Figs, &c., for several years without 
any ill effects. Was nothing more used in the dressing than 
the ingredients stated at page 124? asI have heard of nux- 
vomica, urine, and sugar of lead being used, and the mixture 
of these and other materials might produce an injurious che- 
mical action.—F. P., Gardener, Hillington. 

Ee 


‘Constant Reaper” does not explain whether the dead 
Vines are alternately with the live ones in the house, or whether 
they are all at one end, nor does he say how the border is situ- 
ated—a matter of much consequence in early forcing. 

I started my first vinery on December 1st; it contains eight 
Vines, and five of them have made good, strong, short-jointed 
wood, shown plenty of bunches, and are now in full flower. 
Of the other thre Vine; whic are situated at the cooler end 
of the house, the first, a Sweetwater, has made weak shoots, 
and has not shown a single bunch. The second is Trentham 
Black, and the third Black Hamburgh. The last two have not 
made nearly such good wood, and have not shown so many 
bunches, nor are the bunches so large. Besides, they are at 
least three weeks later than the other five Vines, owing to the 
coldness of the border; for the fireplace, which is underneath 
the house, goes as far under the border as the roots of the five 
Vines extend. This proves the benefit of having the border 
heated for early forcing; for not only the Vines are more for- 
ward, but the crop is better ia quality and quantity in the part 
of the house where the border is heated. I am muchin fayour 


160 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 2, 1871. 


of having constant heat in the border when Grapes are hanging 
late in the season, but the border, of course, must be dry and 
the temperature of the house cool, the atmosphere being also 
dry. 

I have two Lady Downe’s Vines in the second vinery, situ- 
ated one at the end of the house where the fireplace of the first 
vinery is underneath, and the other about the middle of the 
house where no artificial heat reaches the border. The Grapes 
were ripened last July, but those on the Vine which is situated 
in the unheated part of the borderjhave not kept nearly so well 


as the others, although the treatment was exactly the same in 
both cases. The Grapes on the Vine above the fireplace look 
as plump and as full of bloom as they did last August. 

The cause of the death of ‘‘ Constant Reapru’s”? Vines may 
be the lime contained in the dressing glueing up the buds, or 
the dressing being too strong (for he does not say how much 
water he used); or it may be starting the Vines so early with 
the border unheated and the canes weak, the rising sap being 
too weak to force the development of the buds.—W. Jones, 
Bodlondeb, Bangor. 


GROUND LEVELLING AND PRACTICAL GARDEN PLOTTING.—No. 13. 
DRAWING PLANS. 


To draw and transfer fig. 36 to the ground, form the rectangle 
ABCD, also the diameter lines Er and au. Draw lines 1 2, 
15 16, 17 18, and 39 40, which form the inside rectangle. On 
the diameter line z F draw the two triangular beds. Draw lines 
ikandmn. On the diameter line a H draw the two squares 
at equal distances from centre o ; draw the diagonal lines ab, c d 
on one side, ande f,g h 
on the other side; draw 
lines rs,twu,vw, vy, 
and corre:ponding lines 
onthe other side. Be- 
tween lines A D andBoc 
draw lines 39 40, 37 38, 
&c.; between lines a B 
and cp draw lines 1 2, 
3 4, &e. 

To transfer the figure 
to the ground, the dis- 
tance between points 
aand Bis 55 feet. In- 
sert a stake at each 
point. From point B 
to point c is 84 feet; 
insert a stake at point 
c. Line cp is equal to 
line AB; insert a stake 
at point p. Line pa 
is equal to line Bc; 
lay a line from stake 
to stake. On each side 
of the stake at point a 
measure 5 feet (which 


point 7, on line 7 w, measure 3 feet, and insert a peg as at 
point f. Lay a line from peg e to peg fas shown. From the 
peg at point w, on line w 7, measure 3 feet, and insert a peg as 
at point k. Lay a line from the peg at point g to the peg at 
point h; where these two lines cross each other is the centre 
of the square; insert a peg at that point. On each side 
of that peg, on lines 
ef and gh, measure 
6 feet; insert a peg at 
each point, as in the 
small circles. Lay a 
line from peg to peg, 
and the square is lined. 
On each side of the 
diameter line E F — 
that is to say, from 
the stakes at points 
E F, measure 11 feet 


6 inches, and insert 
pegs as at points 72 
and m k. Lay lines 


connecting pegs 7 and 
k, also pegs m and n. 
On each side of the 
diameter line © F mea- 
sure 2 feet, and insert 
pegs as at points 27, 
28, 29, and 30, and lay 
lines connecting them. 
On each side of the 
diagonal lines ef and 
g h measure 2 feet, and 


is the width of the side 
walk), and insert pegs 
as at points 1 and 39. 
On each side of the 
stake at point B mea- 
sure 5 feet, and insert 
pegs as at points 15 
and 40. On each side 
of the stake at point c 
measure 5 feet, and in- 
sert pegs as at points 
16 and 18. On each 
side of the stake at 
point p measure 5 feet, 
and insert pegs as at 
points 2and17. Lay 
lines from peg 1 to peg 
2,and from peg 15 to 
16, from 17 to 18, and 
from 39 to40. Where 
the lines cross each 
other are the angles of 
the inside rectangle. 
Insert a stake at each 
point, as at points rw. 
On each side of the 
diameter line EF, on 
line 1 2, measure 5 feet, 
and insert a peg at each point, as at 21; from points 77 measure 
13 feet to line EF, and insert a peg as at point z. Find the 
Corresponding triangle on line 15 16, insert a peg at each point, 
and lay lines from peg to peg. From the pegs at points /1, on 
the side lines of the triangle, measure 7 feet 3 inches; insert 
a peg at each point, as at pointsc g. Find the corresponding 
points eb on the corresponding}triangle. From the peg at 


S57HII 13 


. Scale 16 feet to theinch, 


insert pegs as at points 
rs, tu, vw, and ry, 
and lay lines connect- 
ing them. Find the 
corresponding points 
on the other side, and 
lay the corresponding 
lines in the same man- 
ner. From the stake 
at point a, on line AD, 
measure 16 feet, and 
insert a peg as at point 
37. From the stake at 
point B measure the 
same distance on line 
B C, and insert a peg as 
at point 38. From the 
stakes at points A and 
B measure 22 feet, and 
insert pegs as at points 
35and36. Fromstakes 
A and B measure 26 feet, 
and insert pegs as at 
points 33 and 34. Again, 
from stakes A and B 
measure 32 feet, and 
insert pegs as at points 
83land 32. Find the 
corresponding points on the other side in the same manner. Lay 


lines connecting pegs 37 38, 35 36, 33 34, 31 32, andalso corre- 


sponding lines on the other side. On each side of the diameter 


line G H—that is, on each side of the stakes at points GH, 
measure 2 feet, and insert pegs as at points 78 and 910. 
Again, on each side of the stakes at points G H measure 8 feet, 


and insert pegs as at points 34,1314. Lay connecting lines 


March 2, 1871. J JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 161 


between lines 7 8, 9 10, 34, 13 14, then all the lines are laid. 
The beds are intended to be edged with Box edging. The 
squares would answer well for vases. 3, beds; w, walks.— 
M. O'Donnexu, Gardener to E. Leeming, Esq., Spring Grove, 
Richmond. 


FRENCH HORTICULTURISTS’ RELIEF FUND. 


A MEETING was held yesterday, at the rooms of the Royal 
Horticultural Society, South Kensington, to consider the mode 
in which British horticulturists can best aid their suffering 
brethren in France, after the fearful hardships and devastation 
they have undergone through the war with Germany. Mr. 
G. F. Wilson, F.R.S., was in the chair, and there were present 
Mr. William Paul, Dr. Masters, Mr. Moore, Rev. H. H. Dom- 
brain, Dr. Hogg, Mr. Standish, and Mr. Turner. Mr. Harry 
Veitch, Mr. Thomas Osborn, and Mr. Bull also took part in 
the movement, but were unable to be present at the meeting, 
The following resolutions were unanimously adopted :— 


“1st, That it is desirable to make a subscription, and to solicit 
contributions in kind in aid of the French horticulturists who have 
een ruined or injured by the war. 

“9nd, That a Committee be appointed to carry out this object, con- 
sisting of the gentlemen present at the meeting, with power to add to 
their number, and that the Rey. H. H. Dombrain be requested to act 
as Honorary Secretary.” 


We shall draw attention more at length next week to this 
desirable object, meanwhile directing our readers’ notice to the 
fact, and strongly urging them to unite in making this laudable 
object a real success. 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 


Marca Isr. 


Frouir Commttre.—G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S. in the chair. Mr. 
James Batters, gardener to J. W. Fleming, Esq., of Chilworth Manor, 
Romsey, sent a very fine specimen of Queen Pine, weighing 4 lbs. 
The plant on which it was grown was twenty-two months old. It was 
much admired and received a special certificate. Mr. Douglas, gar- 
dener to F. Whitbourne, Esq., Loxford Hall, Ilford, sent a bunch of 
Mrs. Pince’s Black Muscat, from a plant grafted on the Lady Downe’s, 
ard also a bunch of Lady Downe’s from the stock plant. The fruit 
of Lady Downe’s was of good colour and indifferent flavour, and 
Mrs. Pince was deficient in colour, but superior in flavour. Mr. 
Osman, gardener to H. Holland, Esq., Stanmore Hall, Middlesex, 
sent a dish of Loquat, the fruit of Eriobotrya japonica. The fruit 
was small but very highly ripened, and of excellent flavour, many of 
the members expressing an opinion that they were the best-flavoured 
examples of home-grown Loquat they had seen. A special certificate 
was awarded. M. Piccarillo, of Wigmore Street, sent cones of the 
thin-shelled Pinus Pinea, from Naples. The seeds of this variety have 
thin skin, and may be easily broken between the finger and thumb. 

Mr. Cannell, of Woolwich, sent a model of a new boiler of his in- 
vention, and another was sent by Mr. G. Smith, gardener to Thomas 
Brassey, Esq., of Normanhurst Court, Battle, but the Committee 
decided that no opinion would be given upon any boiler a model, of 
which no practical experience had been obtained. 

Prizes were offered for the best bunch of early Grapes, and for the 
best bunch of late Grapes. In the former class no first prize was 
awarded, the second went to Mr. Tribe, gardener to J. Sharpe, Esq., 
Waltham Cross, for Black Hamburgh. For late Grapes Mr. Sage, 
gardener to Earl Brownlow, Ashridge, was first with Alicante in very 
geod condition, also showing Mrs. Pince a little shrivelled, not for 
competition. Mr. Bannerman, gardener to Lord Bagot, Blithfield, 
was second, with Lady Downe’s, fine, also showing excellent bunches 
not for competition. Mr. Lynn, gardener to Lord Boston, was third 
with Alicante. 
» The first prize for the best dishes of Asparagus, Sea-kale, and Rhu- 
barb went to Mr. Bray, gardener to E. Sandford, Esq., Nynehead 
Conrt, Wellington, for good samples of each. Mr. Miles, gardener to 


Lord Carrington, was second with fine Rhubarb, good Asparagus, but 
the Sea-kale coarse. 


Frorat Commirrre.—Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord Londesborough, 
sent a group of Orchids, among which were several fine specimens of 
Dendrobium nobile, one in particular being nearly 4 feet across, and 
a dense mass of blossom. Besides these there were Cattleya Trianzi, 
Cymbidium eburneum, Phalenopsis Schilleriana, Oncidium splen- 
didum, conspicuous by its long spike of flowers, with a yellow lip 
2 inches in diameter; O. leucochilum, and others; Odontoglossum 
cordatum in fine bloom, Pilumna fragrans, noticed in our report of the 
last Meeting, the pretty Dendrobium lasioglossum, D. capillipes with 
small orange yellow flowers, and Angrecum citratum. Mr. Denning 
also sent a very pretty unnamed Cheilanthes with finely-divided fronds. 

From Mr. Williams came a varied and pretty group of Orchids, 
Palms, and other plants, in which were execllent specimens of Cypri- 
pedium villosum, Odontoglossums, Dendrochilum glumaceum, new hy- 


the beautiful azure-flowered Tillandsia Lindeni, and other plants, 
together with a Trichopilia with white flowers, tinged with orange in the 
throat. 

From the Society's garden came a fine plant of Dendrobium spe- 
ciosum, and a new Lycaste, very free-flowering, and haying drooping, 
dull fawn-coloured flowers, with an orange lip. 

Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, sent a group containing fine specimens 
of Cypripedium villosum, Lycastes, Dendrochilum glumaceum, and 
other Orchids, together with Aucubas in berry, Pancratium fragrans, 
and Amaryllids ; also Mormodes minax from Chiriqui, a rather showy 
new Orchid, purplish rose, with dark crimson spots and blotches, and 
the hybrid Lelia Pilcheri raised from L. Perinni and Cattleya crispa, the 
latter plant being shown in competition for Major Trevor Clarke’s prize. 

Messrs. Rollisson & Sons, of Tooting, sent a group in which 
were several Cypripediums of which C. villosum was very fine, 
Vandas, Phalenopsis Schilleriana, Dendrobium Wallichi, a variety of 
nobile, much finer than the latter in colour, Amaryllis, Palms, &c. 

Mr. Lawrence, gardener to Bishop Sumner, Farnham Castle, sent 
Cattleya Trianwi Lawrenciana, a most splendid variety and beauti- 
fully flowered, also a fine specimen of Dendrobium Kingianum. 
Mr. Z. Stevens, gardener to the Duke of Sutherland, Trentham, 
exhibited several varieties of Azalea amcena. As shown, the plants 
had larger flowers and differed in the shades of colour, affording a 
pleasing variety. Mr. R. Dean, Ealing, sent Primula auriculeflora 
to show its merits as an early-flowering Primrose; and Mr. Knight, 
Floral Nursery, Hailsham, Princess Louise Victoria Hybrid Perpetual 
Rose, which is stated to be very free both in growth and flowering, 
and suitable as a climbing Rose. 

Mr. Turner, Slough, exhibited a basket of Mr. Rutter Golden 
Tricolor Pelargonium, very fine. From Mr. Orchard, gardener to 
B. W. Harris, Esq., The Priory, Wimbledon, came seedling Violet 
Purple King, a cross between the Czar and the common Russian, 
having large, very sweet-scented flowers. Messrs. E. G. Henderson 
exhibited Eupatorium riparium, forming a plant 4 feet across, and 
bearing a profusion of charming heads of little button-like white 
flowers which would be extremely useful for bouquet-making. Mr. 
Ware, Hale Farm Nursery, Tottenham, exhibited two fine baskets of 
Sempervivum tabuleforme, the lively green saucers or platters which 
the plant resembles having a very good effect, also baskets of the — 
charming little double Hepatica triloba rubra, pans of Scillas, a 
numerous and very beautiful collection of spring flowers, and a basket 
of variegated Ophiopogons. Mr. Moore, gardener to C. Leach, Esq., 
Clapham Park, sent a remarkably fine specimen of Dendrobium 
speciosum, and Mr. Pilcher, gardener to S. Rucker, Esq., Wandsworth, 
Masdeyvallia elephanticeps (?) with an extremely brilliant orange scarlet 
flower veined with deep scarlet. Odontoglossum Rossii, very fine, 
came from Messrs. Backhouse, of York, also Odontoglossum retusum- 
latro with rich orange blossoms. From Mr. Bull came Helcia san- 
guinolenta, and Odontoglossum Alexandre with a fine spike. 

Prizes were offered for the best six Camellias in pots, but there were 
no exhibitors. Messrs. Lane, however, sent a numerous collection, 
mostly small and well-bloomed plants. Prizes were likewise offered 
for cut blooms. The first prize went to Mr. Howard, gardener to J. 
Brand, Esq., Bedford Hill, Balham, who had fine examples of Fim- 
briata, Valtevaredo, Donckelaari, La Reine, Countess of Orkney, 
Chandleri elegans, Jubilee, Elegans, Alba plena, Aulica, and Imbri- 
cata. Mr. Baxter, gardener to C. Keiser, Esq., Broxbourne, wag 
second, and Mr. A. Wilkie, Oak Lodge, Kensington, third. Mr. Truss- 
ler, gardener to D. J. Kay, Esq., Hoddesdon, also sent some good 
blooms. By far the finest exhibition, however, of Camellias was that 
from Mr. W. Paul, of Waltham Cross, who had no less than six large 
boxes of splendid cut blooms. Donckelaari, Alba plena, Corallina, 
and Imbricata each filled a box, and there were besides two stands 
containing a number of the best varieties. 

Of shrubs in flower there was only one collection, coming from Mr. 
Wilkie, Oak Lodge, for which a second prize was awarded. It con- 
sisted of Rhododendrons, Azalea amena, Lilac, &. 

Of Lily of the Valley the best six pots came from Mr. Howard, gar- 
dener to J. Brand, Esq., of Balham. These filled large pans, and 
formed a grand show. Mr. Searle, gardener to R. C. Steel, Esq., 
Hammersmith, was second, and Mr. Wilkie third. 

First-class certificates were awarded to Mr. Denning, gardener to 
Lord Londesborough, for his new Fern, to Messrs. Backhouse for 
Odontoglossum retusum latro, to Mr. Turner for Tricolor Pelargonium 
Mr. Rutter, and to Mr. Pilcher for his Masdevallia. 

Special certificates were awarded to Mr. Ware for his collection of 
plants ; to Mr. Denning for his collection of Orchids, also for Dendro- 
bium nobile and Oncidium splendidum; to Messrs. Veitch for a col- 
lection of plants; to Messrs. Lane for Camellias in pots; to Messrs. 
Rollisson for a group of plants, and for Cypripedium villosum ; to Mr. 
Trussler for cut Camellias ; to Mr. Moore for Dendrobium speciosum ; 
to Mr. W. Paul for ent Camellias; to Mr. Williams for a miscella- 
neous group; to Mr. Lawrence for Dendrobium Kingianum and Cat- 
tleya Trianzi Lawrenciana ; also for Dendrobium speciosum from the’ ° 
Society’s garden. 


GENERAL Mertinc.—Major R. Trevor Clarke in the chair. After 
the election of thirty-one new Fellows the Chairman said Mr. Bateman 


; : Aen ld mak arks on the losses of French horti 1 
brid berried Solanums, Ivis reticulata, Cyclamens, Amaryllis, Camellias, | Sea ne ere guy Brenembordonlenrs: 


162 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 2, 1871. 


Mr. Bateman ssid he would first make a few observations on the 
Orchids. The Masdevallias were eminently cool Orchids, as they 
grew on the limits of perpetual snow; they were also eminently 
mimetic Orchids, and one known to us only by drawings was M. ele- 
phanticeps, so named from its flowers bearing some resemblance to an 
elephant’s head. The plant shown under that name was, however, 
probably only a variety of M. coccinea, and therefore M. elephanticeps 
was still a disideratum. The fine specimen of Odontoglossum Rossii 
from Messrs. Backhouse was next noticed, also the specimen of 
Oncidium retusum latro which was not only curious in the colour of 
its flowers, which was similar to that of Epidendrum vitellinum, but 
had also a curious trick of pushing, but never coming to the point of 
flowering. Notwithstanding every effort had been made in the 
Society’s gardens it had obstinately refused to do so, but Messrs. 
Backhouse had succeeded; and no doubt in the future, when the bulbs 
gained strength, the spike would be of much greater length. The 
beautiful Cattleya from Bishop Sumner’s gardener, Angrecum 
eitrinum, and some other Orchids having been briefly noticed, atten- 
tion was next directed to a Berberis which a few days ago had formed 
a splendid golden corona in one of the honses at Kensington, and it 
was remarked that if it were desired to form it into a handsome plant, 
it was only necessary to keep its head ent off. 

Mr. Bateman said he now begged to call attention to the serious 
losses French horticulturists had sustained in the war, and after draw- 
ing!a picture of what would be the results to the nurserymen and 
market gardeners round London if a similar zone were trampled on by 
contending armies to that which has been the field of operations 
round Paris, said a Committee had been formed to aid French horti- 
culturists. The Council, with the Fellows’ permission, would, in addi- 
tion, hand over any surplus seeds. The valuable Orchids at the 
Jardin des Plantes had been literally pulverised, but the Society would 
send any duplicates they possessed; Kew would assist; but still he 
urged those who had plants to spare to dothe same. It would only be 
necessary to send to the Society the names of such plants in the first 
instance, and for himself he expressed his confidence that English 
horticulturists would contribute something handsome for their suffer- 
ing brethren in France. In addition, a bazaar would be held in the 
gardens the week after Easter under the patronage of the Princess of 
Teck, the Duchess of Argyll, and others, and he invited contributions 
of articles, and especially of bouquets. j 

The Rev. M. J. Berkeley said, that after a careful examination, the 
Gastronema shown by Mr. Bull at the last meeting, appeared to be 
only @ variety of G. sanguineum, or Cyrtanthus sanguineus, of the 
“‘ Botanical Magazine,” ¢. 5218. Mr. Ware’s beautiful collection of 
spring flowers was next noticed, and especially the true Leucojum 
vernum which it contained, and in connection with it the early-flower- 
ing Crocus Imperatonius, to which the Chairman had drawn attention 
last year. A Wigandia in a diseased state, from Messrs. Henderson, 
Mr. Berkeley said, appeared to be affected with precisely the same 
disease as that which is so fatal to Verbenas, and the cause of this was 
ascribed to an unsatisfactory condition at the roots, for, on turning the 
Wigandia out of its pot, these were found to be in a bad state. 

Mr. Berkeley then read a paper which had been communicated to 
the Agri-Horticultural Society of India last December, descriptive of 
a, mode of rendering the Litchi stoneless by scooping out the pith and 
afterwards inarching, by which means, after each operation, the stone 
became less and less. Dr. Hogg had informed him this was by no 
meaus a new idea, for a similar method was mentioned in one of the 
old authors, but he (Mr. Berkeley) confessed himself incredulous of 
the success of the process, and on grounds which he stated. 

The Chairman then made some remarks on the prizes which he had 
offered to the exhibitors gaining the greatest number of marks for 

- subjects illustrative of the phenomena of hybridisation, and said, as 
soon as he could arrive at a definite conclusion as to the best manner 
in which they could be competed for, he would make the result known 
in the horticultural journals. 


A Meerine was held on the same day as the above, to consider Mr. 
Marshall's new exhibition scheme (see pages 49 and 122). Mr. Mar- 
shall was in the chair, and after inviting suggestions, and there being 
a short discussion on the details, he proposed that the conditions 
should be printed and circulated among exhibitors, and opinions in- 

vited. Dr. Hogg said, as all seemed agreed on general principles and 
the only differences were on matters of detail, he would propose that a 
Committee be appointed to confer with the Council. He would not 
advise a large Committee. The Chairman invited him to name the 
members, to which Dr. Hogg demurred, but eventually the following 
were nominated—yiz., Messrs. Baines, W. Paul, Williams, Moore, 
Turner, Fraser, Ward, and Dr. Hogg. It was then agreed that the 
proposed regulations should be printed and sent out, to be returned to 
the Committee previous to the next meeting, March 15th. 


Appitionat Prizes.—G. W. Ricketts, Esq., offers first and second 
prizes of 20s. and 10s. respectively for two erect-flowered and two droop- 
ing-flowered Gloxinias, to be competed for on May 17th, also for 
Carnations. 


LEAF-COLOURS IN AUTUMN. 
A parre on the colours of autumnal foliage by Mr. H. C. 


Norby, appears in the last number offthe Quarterly Journal of 


Science. The chemical substances which give rise to the vary- 
ing tints of autumn he divides into five classes or genera :— 
1. Chlorophyll, or the green colouring matter, which is very 
rarely found pure, even in fresh leaves. It is insoluble in 
water, but soluble in alcohol or bisulphide of carbon, and the 
spectrum has a well marked absorption band in the red. 
2. Xanthophyll, or the yellow colouring matter; this is inso- 
luble in water, but soluble in alcohol and bisulphide of carbon: 
the spectrum shows absorption at the blue end. It is found in 
various fruits, flowers, and roots. 3. Erythrophyll, or the red 
colouring matter. There is a strong absorption in the green 
part of the spectrum; the various kinds are usually soluble in 
water and dilute alcohol, but not in bisulphide of carbon. It 
is found in red flowers and leaves. 4. Chrysophyll, or the 
golden yellow colours, soluble in water and diluted alcohol, but: 
insoluble in bisulphide of carbon. 5. Phaiophyll, or the group 
of various browns, soluble in water, but not in bisulphide of 
carbon. These are mostly due to the oxidation of chrysophyll. 
Unfaded green leaves are coloured mainly by chlorophyll, but 
the tint is very much modified by xanthophyll and by colours 
of thechrysophyll group. The various tints of autumnal foliage 
are produced by combinations of different members of the above 
groups; and Mr. Sorby gives the following scheme of their rela- 
tive abundance :—During complete vitality and growth, we have 
different kinds of chlorophyll and chrysophyll producing more 
or less bright green; during low vitality and change, erythro- 
phyll and xanthophyll make their appearance, producing more 
or less green-brown, red-scarlet, or bright orange-brown; while 
during death and decomposition phaiophylland humus (brown- 
black) usurp their places, and gradually cause 2 uniform dull 
brown colour.—(English Mechanic and World of Science.) 


THE FROSTS versts VEGETATION. 


Mr. Rogson haying asked for information (page 88) as to the 
effects on vegetation of the late severe weather, I am induced to offer 
a few particulars. For many miles in extent round here exposed 
culinary vegetables have in most cases suffered severely, and with me, 
such as Savoys, Kales, and Brussels Sprouts, are materially injured, 
infinitely more so than the same kinds were by the memorable severe 
weather of 1859-6U. Broccolis and young Cabbage plants are com- 
pletely destroyed; the latter, however, would doubtless have escaped 
injury but for an insufficient covering of snow, which, by the way, 
appears to haye fallen more sparingly in South Warwickshire than in 
many parts, especially in the south of England. 

Here I may remark that the importance of protecting frozen 
plants from the adverse influence of bright sunlight, has been forcibly 
exemplified by an instance that lately presented itself to my notice, in 
the shape of several hundreds of young Canliflower plants pricked out 
under large hand-lights, and which, inadvertently, had been afforded 
no other protection from the alternating frosts and sudden thaws, ir 
consequence of which every plant is hors de combat; whereas, had 
some slight covering been thrown over them, even after they had been 
considerably frozen, prior to the thaw, I believe the majority of them 
would have been saved, if I may argue from the result of the practice 
I fortunately adopted in protecting those I haye under my own charge- 

I hear sad accounts on all sides of injury to stored roots, such as 
Potatoes and Mangold Wurzel, and to Apples, where sufficient protective 
means were not, or could not be afforded. Evergreen shrabs and trees, 
however, appear to have sustained comparatively little injury in the 
grounds here, except in two or three cases; fully-exposed Laurustinus 
is materially injured. The lowest reading of Negretti’s registering 
thermometer was 30° below freezing on the morning of the 31st of 
December, and I learn that 4° below zero was registered about five 
miles from here in a low-lying vale, where at all times during frosty 
weather a lower temperature is registered than with us. 

The following are the readings of my thermometer from December 
23rd to January Ist. It is fixed in an open part of the garden, and at 
4 feet from the ground. 


Dec. 28rd, 19° below freezing point. | Dec. 28th, 7° below freezing point. 
24th, 23° be 


29th 

” y ” ” 
3 a5th, 26°, é » S0th; 952 35 ‘ 
» 26th, 5° ” ” » Slst, 30 ” ” 
» 27th, 15° + 39 Jan. Ist, 24° 3 


” 
—wW. Garpwer, Lower Eatington Park Gardens, Stratford-on-Avon- 


STONE FRUIT FAR NORTH. 


I was not aware till lately that you wished to have a report 
of the stone fruit grown here. My experience is so limited 
that my contribution, I am afraid, will compare very unfavour- 
ably with those of most of your correspondents; yet it may 
prove useful to north-country growers whom I am yery anxious 
to encourage. 

A south wall here, fronting one point east of south, and 


| built in compartments of brick and of stone alternately, 9 feet 


March 2, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


163 


dn height, and extending 48 yards in length, had been planted 
upwards of twenty years ago with six trees, allowing 8 yards 
for each tree. These were selected, I believe, from the Horti- 
cultural Society’s ‘‘ Fruit Catalogue,” and were very successful. 
The Peaches intended to ripen in succession were Acton Scot, 
English Bellegarde, Noblesse, and Royal George. They gave 
an excellent succession from about the earliest season that it is 
possible to have Peaches on the open wall in this county until 
the latest period at which the Peach will be found to possess its 
usual high flavour. In October this ceases to be the case, and 
‘it is better to rely on Plums as a dessert stone fruit for that 
month than to endeavour to prolong the supply of Peaches. 
The Acton Scot bore well, and was of excellent quality, ripening 
about the 10th of August, but the tree is small, and the fruit 
medium-sized. We now expect that the Harly York will super- 
sedeit. The Bellegarde, on the contrary, was a robust-growing, 
large tree, and bore most wonderful crops of from forty to sixty 
dozen, and one year produced eighty-fiva dozen. After some 
years of this heavy cropping, the trees were injured by a very 
severe frost, and we have now a succession of young trees 
‘aking their place. Amongst these the French Boellesarde, a 
jeautiful dark-coloured fruit, promises io ripen well. Tho 
Noblesse bore and ripened well; nothing can exceed it in 
quality. We have now a smallish white Peach, sent as a 
Noblesse (which it is not), that is delicious. Royal George 
has long been the favourite Peach in this county, but it should 
oe known that it is the latest variety that will succeed here, 
and that many sorts are at least one moath earlier. 

Our Nectarine was and is the Hlruge. It is small, but bears 
very well, and ripens freely. Hardwicke Seedling is a larger 
and earlier fruit, but, excepting in a very fine season like lest 
summer, when we had great heat, it is inferior. Violette 
Hative has not yet had time to prove itself. 

Our Apricot was Moorpark, a delicious fruit. We have also 
grown Hemskerk, equally good, but smaller, and not so freea 
bearer. We have grown Breda, which here is quite inferior. 
LT have seen some prodigious crops of Apricots in this neigh- 
bourhood: 125 dozen were gathered from a tree in the garden 
of the clergyman of this parish; but no variety that we have 
met with equals the Moorpark. 

T have yet to state that some of our trees are on brick and 
Some on stone walls, and some are planted so that one half of 
the tree is trained on brick and the other half on stone, but we 
have failed to detect either the blossom or the fruit being ever 
earlier on the brick wall than on the stone wall; that such 
should be considered to be the ease appears, therefore, to bea 
delusion. 

A geod October Plum, to hang on the wall till November, is 
@ desideratum. Coe’s Golden Drop is apt to fall off when of 
the size of a small bean. Autumn Gage, a great bearer, is 
insipid. A white Quetsche is too early, and a dark one is 
inferior. Blue Impératrice promises well. Late Orleans has 
been considered our best October Plum. At Gordonstown, 
near here, the baronial residence of Sir W. Gordon Cumming, 
Bart., there is a large tree of this variety on a south wall, and 
for many years past it has not failed to produce an abundant 
erop of fine fruit lasting all the month of October. 

Of Cherries, May Duke is a great and constant bearer; 
although early, it hangs long (under a net) on the tree. Ii 
succeeds much better on the wall than as a standard, but it 
bears and ripens freely on a north wall, as at Cullen House, the 
seat of the Harl of Seafield. We have some new earlier varie- 
ties, such as Belle d’Orléans, but we have not yet sufficient 
knowledge of them. The common White Heart Cherry of this 
country, of which there are large standard trees in almost all 
the old gardens, is a most delicious fruit. We have also a 
Bigarreau Cherry quite common: and quite hardy. Next to 
these, or perhaps exceeding them in importance, is the Hun- 
garian Gean, of which there is both a black and a red variety, 
‘bearing annually by thousands. An English gentleman, who 
was here two years since, was so charmed with them that he 
ordered ten trees from Mr. Grigor, Nurseryman, of Forres, who 
carefully propagates this variety. At Sea Park, the residence 
of Captain H. Dunbar Dunbar, where there are some large trees, 
the fruit annually is something wonderful to behold. 

We protect all our stone fruit from frost, which, perhaps, is 
not very severe, owing to the proximity to the sea, by laying 
posts, with the butt end on the ground, about a yard from the 
wall, and the upper end resting against the top of the wall, 
‘They are put all along the wall, at about 4 feet apart, and a 
herring net, with meshes about an inch square, is put on double 
along the whole, and reaching from the top to within a yard of 


the ground. It is put on as soon as the blossom expands, and 
is left until the fruit are the size of large peas. Old herring 
nets are very abundant and cheap here. 

Figs ripen well during August and September. A variety that 
has been for many years in this garden has been proved to be 
the same as the Brown Ischia, obtained for us from Chiswick 
by a Fellow of the Royal Horticultural Society. ‘There is grown 
in the neighbourhood a larger sort, of a very dark colour, and 
equally good. 

At Grant Lodge, near Elgin, the residence of the Countess of 
Seafield, I have seen a standard Mulberry tree completely laden 
with ripe fruit; in several gardens in this county such trees 
have been tried without success. When trained on the wall, 
continual application of the knife must be avoided. The shelter 
from the north wind, that rendered the trees at Grant Lodge so 
successful, has now been partly removed; but it is on record 
that a Mulberry, as a standard, where well sheltered from the 
north, with a good southern exposure, would be nothing new in 
our gardens. 

Perhaps I should mention that we have Rivors’s Harly Fa- 
vourite Plum and July Green Gage on a south wall, to succeed 
the Cherries and to precede the Peaches. We trust to standards 
for midseason Plums, as mentioned in a former notice.—JoHN 
MacUuiuods, The Gardens, Duffus, Elgin. 


SLOW COMBUSTION AND ECONOMY OF FUEL. 


Ir will interest many of your readers who have small houses 
under their own supervision, and to whom cheapness of fuel 
anda minimum amount of attendance are desirable, to know 
something about the firing burnt in this part of Wales. It 
amused me much when I saw it first. I aliude to the Welsh 
“balls,” as they are called. They are made of ihe small parts, 
or dust, of the anthracite coal of which “R. 8.” speaks so 
highly (see page 26). I can thoroughly endorse all he has 
said in its favour; and he is quite right in suggesting that the ~ 
fireplace should contract from the top to the bottom, and the 
door should be different from that usually employed. 

Now, the balls are far more economical than the fuel that 
“R. 8.” uses, and so slow is the combustion, that a fire can be 
raade to keep in for from six to twenty-six hours by using 
different quantities of clay. This varies in colour, but that 
of a dun colour is the best, and it is found in low-lying ground 
at the depth of from 1 to 8 or 4 feet from the surface; this 
generally, but not always, being a black bog, 4 to 6 feet deep, 
and resting on;a rough gravelly bottom. It is quite impervious 
to water, and gseareely any grit is to be foundinit. It costs 
from 3s. to 4s. per good cartload, and can be kept in store for 
eny leagth of time, if placed under cover. I should like to 
know if it can be obtained in England. 

I will now suppose that the clay and coal are ready, and if 
under cover so much the better, for the materials can be made 
up in wet weather as is generally done here. The coal is 
sifted and put round to form a basin, precisely the same as a 
mason would doin making mortar. The clay is then placed in 
the middle, in the proportion of from one-eighth to a thirteenth 
part of the coal, according to the time the fuel is wanted to 
burn; the more clay, the more quickly it will burn. One- 
tenth is the proportion generally used here. The clay is 
chopped up fine, sufficient. water is thrown on to make the 
heap of the consistency of mortar, and the whole is mixed 
together, well kneading it, by turning and treading, until the 
clay is thoroughly mixed with the culm. Itis always best to 
use this'fuel wet. Whenitis used in the house, as every person 
does, it is worked into balls and put on the fire, being about 
the size of a goose’s egg, with the riddlings, if any, under them. 
When the fire is banked up for the night, a few balls are put 
under with a plaster 2 or 3 inches deep over them, anda hole 
is made in the top asa vent. We never hear of lighting a 
fire in this part—in fact, it would be as great a novelty to 
see a lucifer match in a cottage as a piece of roast beef ona 
Sunday. 

There are other clays used when that which I have noticed 
cannot be had; one is a white clay similar to pipe clay, but 
not nearly so good, and three times as much of it are required. 
Those living near a river that deposits slimy mud on its sides, 
use that as a substitute. ‘‘ A.B.” (page 67) will find that these 
clays will be a great addition to his small coal and cinders, of 
which we have used many loads this winter, and if he could 
add a third part of small hard coal, the mixture would last 
much longer, and burn with greater certainty. The same ob- 


164 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ March 2, 1871. 


jection applies to the anthracite coal and the balls as that | “balls” will last as long as three loads of soft coal, the price 


which “A. B.” makes to his small coal and cinders, for one 
must have wood or soft coal to ‘‘set the fire going;” if it is 
desirable to put on a fire in a cold morning, it will not be 
forced. The stoker must wait patiently after he has lighted 
the fire for it to burn up of its own accord, if poked it will not 
burn. } 

As regards price, I think the fuel described will exhibit a 
favourable contrast to soft coal; we buy the coal at 6s. a-ton, 
and the clay and making cost 2s. per load. This is the extreme 
price here for making it. It is considered that one load of the 


SOLANUM 
= Tuts highly-ornamental species has been reintroduced by 
Messrs. Carter & Co., nurserymen and seedsmen, High Holborn, 
from Porto Rico. It was cultivated here fifty years since, and 


of which is from 12s. to 14s. per ton. The small amount_of 
ashes which come from the balls is a great advantage in a 
small stoke-hole ; they partake of the character of burnt brick, 
and are an excellent material for applying to heavy land. There 
is no danger of sparks, and the annoyance of much smoke is 
avoided, for the cottages here have their chimneys of the shape 
of a small round hamper with the bottom ont, rising about a 
foot above the thatch, and having a little mortar roundtit to 
keep it on; but I never heard of any disaster from fire.—J. T., 
Maesgwynne, Carmarthenshire. 


CILIATUM. 
was portraited as long ago as 1813, by Dunal, in his ‘‘ Histoire 
Naturelle des Solanum, &c.” 
It is either an annual, or has to be cultivated as if it were 


W.C.SMITH' 


Solanum ciliatum. 


£0, by being sown yearly. Its stem is herbaceous, from 12 to 
18 inches high, having numerous yellow prickles; leaves sub- 
cordate, sinuately lobed, ciliated (hence its specific name) with 


prickles on their ribs; leaf-stalks short; flowers white, five- 
lobed; berries nearly spherical, more than an inch in diameter, 
orange-gcarlet when ripe. These render it highly ornamental, 


March 2, 1871. J 


clustered among the dark green foliage, and especially fit it, 
being a dwarf plant, for table decoration. 


THE WAR AND FRENCH GARDENING. 


A WEEK or two ago we gave an extract from a letter to 
Dr. Hogg, from Mr. Henry Vilmorin, of Paris, in which he 
mentioned his two brothers, Maurice and Phillipe, as being 
drafted into the army, and serving with the Mobiles. Those 
of our readers who know the family will be grieved to hear 
that Phillipe, the youngest of the Vilmorin family, and a fine 
noble lad of eighteen, has fallen a sacrifice for his country in 
the great struggle against the Germans. He was shot through 
the head at Commeré, near Le Mans, in January last, while 
courageously leading his company into action. M. Henry and 
M. Maurice Vilmorin have escaped unhurt. 


Tue following description of the effects on the Jardin des 
Plantes of the bombardment of Paris is from ‘‘ A Special Corre- 
spondent’’ of the Times :— 


We drove through the usual gay and cheerful-looking throngs 
along the Quais to the Jardin, but here all was changed. The iron 
gates were shut, and the usually animated scene was desolate in the 
extreme. So we drove round to the house of M. Decaisne, whose 
celebrity as a botanist is too well known for any further comment to 
be necessary, and under his most kind and interesting guidance I 
visited a scene which was full of painful interest. 

The gardens had apparently been a point of especial bombard- 
ment, and no fewer than eighty-three shells had fallen within their 
comparatively limited area. We went out to the glass houses to judge 
for ourselyes of the effects. On the night of the 8th and 9th of 
January four shells fell into the glass houses and shattered the greater 
part of them to atoms. A heap of glass fragments lying hard by 
testified to the destruction, but the effect of the shells was actually 
to pulverise the glass, so that it fell almost like dust over the gardens. 
The consequence was that nearly the whole of this most rare and valu- 
able collection was exposed to one of the coldest nights of the year, and 
whole families of plants were killed by the frost. Some of the pants 
suffered the most singular effects from the concussion ; the fibres were 
stripped bare, and the bark peeled off in many instances. One house 
into which we went presented a most lamentable appearance of bare 
poles; scarcely a leaf was left. All the Orchids, all the Clusiacez, 
the Cyclanthex, the Pandanex, were completely destroyed, either by 
the shells themselves or by the effects of the cold. The large Palm 
house was destroyed, and the tender troy ical contents were exposed to 
that bitterly cold night; yet, singularly enough, although they have 
suffered severely, not one has yet died. Imagine Kew Gardens under 
a heavy fire,and Dr. Hooker standing disconsolate in the midst of 
them, his most cherished plants in ribands, and his glass houses a 
mass of powder, and we can form some idea of what M. Decaisne 
suffered during those fifteen nights, when shells came bursting under 
his window, sending splinters into his flower garden, and shaking his 
house to its foundations with every explosion. Feeling that, at all 
costs, he was bound to stick to his post, he passed the whole of his 
time actively engaged in covering up his plants in blankets, and 
straining every nerve to keep the cherished favourites of a lifetime 
from the ruthless missiles that were searching every nook and corner 
of the establishment. Two shells fell into the zoological gallery, one 
into the gallery of mineralogy, where it destroyed some beautiful 
pieces of paleontology. Three fell into the laboratories and museum, 
destroying a valuable collection of rare shells, which had just been 
classified. A long building had been turned into a hospital, and a 
shell had burst in it, blowing out every window, and crashing through 
the wooden wall; fortunately, all the beds were unprepared, the 
patients had not arrived, and no lives were lost. A sick man in an 
adjoining hospital was less fortunate, and was killed in his bed by a 
shell. The houses, historical as having been the residences of Cuvier 
and Buffon, did not escape, but fortunately, although several of the 
shells were found to be full of combustible materials, nothing was set 
on fire. All through the whole of the fortnight during which these 
gardens were subjected to this rain of shells, Messrs. Decaisne, Chey- 
reuil, and Edwards remained at their post, unable to rest, and have 
since, at their own expense, repaired the damage done, trusting that 
whatever form of government France may choose it will not repudiate 
its debts of honour. The British public have nobly come forward to 
relieve the distress of the suffering population of Paris; I would now 
make an appeal to the comparatively small section of society whose glass 
houses may, perhaps, be supplied with plants which may replace those 
which have been destroyed. M. Decaisne is making out a list of his 
losses, 2 large proportion of which might possibly be supplied from 
Kew, while owners of private collections might also be glad to testify 
their sympathy and interest in the cause of science by contributing 
whatever they may be able to spare as soon as the amount and nature 
of the loss is ascertained. I feel no doubt that it will be enough to 
make the facts known, for the British public to respond with the same 
generosity which they have manifested in other instances. 

The animals fared better than the plants—not only have none of 
them been eaten by the population of Paris, as the latter fondly sup- 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


165 


pose, but althouch several shells burst among them they have escaped 
uninjured. Of course, when food was so scarce for human beings, 
the monkeys and their companions were put upon short allowance. 
This fact, coupled with the extreme rigour of the season, increased 
the rate of mortality among them, and one elephant died, but was not 
eaten. The two elephants and the camel that were eaten belonged to 
the Jardin d’Acclimatation, and had been removed in the early stage of 
the siege from their ordinary home in the Bois de Bologne, for safety, 
tothe Jardin des Plantes, where, however, it would appear, it was not 
to be found, The birds screamed and the animals cowered, as the 
shells came rushing overhead and bursting near them, as they do 
when some terrific storm frightens them ; latterly they seemed to be- 
come used to it; fortunately the part of the garden which they inhabit 
is somewhat removed from the museums, at which the fire seemed 
more especially directed. The gates of this favourite resort were kept 
closed, because the price of firewood is so high and the scarcity of % 
such that the people are unable to resist the temptation of coming 
into the garden in search of fuel, and for the present it is found wise 
to shut them out; indeed, so much greater is the necessity for fuel 
than for food at present that the provision trains have been stopped, 
by order of the Government to allow the coal trains to pass. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


Ar a meeting of the Committee of the Seed Trade, held at 
Anderton’s Hotel, on February 22nd, Dr. Maxwett T. Masters 
in the chair, it was decided that a memorial should be forwarded 
to the Postmaster-General containing the following resolutions :— 

“1. That for several years previous to October Ist, 1870, seedsmen 
had the privilege of sending by post small parcels of seeds and other 
articles under the then existing arrangements of the sample post, 
these parcels being generally so small in size as to be in much danger 
of being lost in the course of transit by rail, or other modes of public 

nveyance. 
ace That this privilege was a great boon both to the buyer an& 
seller of seed, the seller being in the habit of sending to all parts of 
the United Kingdom and abroad many hundreds of such parcels 
annually. That to purchasers residing at remote distances from rail~ 
way stations, or in places destitute of the ordinary means of transit, 
this privilege was one of the greatest importance, as parcels could be 
obtained through the post, safely, expeditiously, and cheaply, owing, 
to the superior organisation of the Post Office mode of transit. That. 
the enjoyment of this privilege tended in a great degree to develope an 
important branch of the industry of the kingdom—that of the pro- 
duction of seeds. 3 rau 

“3. That the postal arrangements now in operation interfere most 
injuriously with the transmission of seeds through the post; as pur- 
chasers residing in ali parts of the United Kingdom, the Colonies,, 
India, the United States of America, &c., are no longer able to receive 
such packages by post, unless paid for at letter rates, which are simply 
prohibitory, inasmuch as the cost of transit by this means would be 
equal to at least 20 or 25 per cent. of the average value of the seeds 
so forwarded. In this manner a considerable loss is entailed on the 
retail seed trade, as many of the persons engaged in selling seeds have 
gone to considerable expense to meet this particular requirement of 
the public—namely, that of obtaining certain seeds, delivered at a 
nominal rate, promptly and safely. ‘hat so expensive are the means 
of transit, otherwise than through the post, and so much danger is 
there of loss or delay, that were it not for the facilities offered by the 
Post Office, there is much reason to believe such purchases would not 
be made. ‘ 

“4 That this Committee beg leave to advocate the establishment 
of a ‘Parcels’ Post,’ by means of which there could be forwarded 
through the Post Office seeds, or other goods, in execution of an order. 
That such a parcels’ post as that advocated by this Committee is in 
operation in other countries, and is found to be of great general con- 
yenience, and that the establishment of such a system in this country 
would prove a great boon, not only to the particular trade represented 
by the Committee and their customers, but :1so to other trades who 
haye been great sufferers from the restrictions at present in force. 
That the transmission of parcels so sent might be subjected to certain 
restrictions as to weight and dimensions, and that the postal authorities 
might reserve to themselves the right to examine the contents of such 
parcels if deemed expedient to do so. Z 

“5, That such a parcels’ post is advocated by the Committee of the 
Seed Trade, not only because it would remove the numerous objections 
urged againt the present postal restrictions, but also because it would 
tend to prevent any evasion of the regulations laid down by the Post 
Office authorities.” ; 

It is also resolved that a deputation from this Committee be 
appointed to wait on the Postmaster General, in conjunction 
with a deputation from the Manchester Trade Association. 


WORK FOR THE WEEE. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 
SHouxp the weather prove fine and the ground be found in. 
@ condition for sowing (when it crumbles beneath the foot it 
may be said to be so), the sowings of the principal crops may 


166 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ March 2, 1871. 


be made. Make new plantations of Artichokes, and fill-up old 
ones. Sow Mazagan Beans in sheltered situations, and trans- 
plant those in the forcing house. Beet may now be sown. 
Sow Red Cabbage for autumn use. Sow acrop of Carrots out 
of doors, and thin-out those in frames. Horseradish should 
be planted, if there is not sufficient in already. Sow Leeks for 
the main crop. Sow Lettuces, and harden-off those in frames, 
to be planted out as soon as it can be done with safety. Stick 
early Peas, and sow several varieties for succession crops. 
Harly Potatoes should be planted without delay. Sow Parsnips 
in drills a foot apart for the main crop. Sowa little Savoy, 
Green Kale, Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli, Parsley, and Radishes ; 
and Small Salads must not be forgotten. Sow a few more rows 
of Spinach and Early Dutch Turnips in a warm situation. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

Where circumstances have retarded the operations belonging 
to the orchard and fruit trees generally, no further time should 
be allowed to elapse. The application of fresh soil, pruning. 
nailing, and cleaning should each be completed with all reason- 
able dispatch. It is now time to look out for the opening 
blossom, and be ready on the first emergency to afford pro- 
tection. Woollen netting, stout straw ropes stretched upon 
poles, or light frames covered with oiled calico, are amongst 
the available materials for the purpose. For the destruction 
of the Gooseberry caterpillar, now is a good time to rake away 
the earth from the stems of Gooseberry and Currant trees, and 
%o dress them with soot and wood ashes, returning the earth 
as soon as that is performed. Prevention is better than cure, 
and this will save much hand-picking by-and-by. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

The climate of England is, without doubt, the most favourable 
for the production of beautiful and verdant lawns, yet though we 
are assisted by climate in beautifying our flower gardens with 
a rich and verdant lawn, all efforts of ours will be comparatively 
futile unless proper attention be paid to the preparation of the 
ground. Of the two modes pursued in the formation of grass 
lawns, Iam in favour of forming them by sowing a selection 
of Grasses, choosing those which are of a short and close 
growth. Sowing is done more expeditiously and economically 
than laying down turf, and in after years there will be no 
annoyances in the shape of Daisies, Dandelion, Sorrel, Hawk- 
weed, &c. This is a good time for preparing ground for the 
purpose. Dig it carefully over, pick out all roots of perennial 
weeds, rake the surface, and bring it to the level required. Give 
it a good treading, and then roll it with a heavy roller to bring 
the ground to a regular and uniform consistency. Having done 
this, slightly stir the ground with the rake, sow the seed, and 
finally pass the roller over the surface. For a selection of 
Grasses suitable for this purpose, and the quantity necessary 
for an acre, I would recommend the following sorts for light 
soils :—Festuca tenuifolia, 2 pecks; Poa pratensis, 2 pecks; 
Anthoxanthum odoratum, 3 pecks; Lolium perenne tenue, 
2 pecks; Agrostis stolonifera, 2 pecks; White Dutch Clover, 
1 peck. For very strong heavy soil—Poa trivialis, 2 pecks; 
Festuca duriuscula, 2 pecks; F. ovina, 2 pecks ; Anthoxanthum 
odoratum, 2 pecks; Cynosurus cristatus, 2 pecks; Alopecurus 
pratensis, 2 pecks; White Dutch Clover, 1 peck. When turf 
isin @ bad state and difficult to mow in summer, let it be 
top-dressed with light soil, and some Clover seed sown upon 
it. Proceed with all operations that involve the necessity of 
wheeling or removing earth. Complete all planting, roll and 
@weep lawns, cleanse and turn gravel walks. Where it is ne- 
cessary to eradicate weeds there is nothing like hand labour. 
In completing the arrangement of the flower garden, duplicate 
herbaceous plants may, perhaps, be found; these can be dis- 
tributed about the pleasure grounds often with excellent effect. 
Prick-over flower beds, and get them in a wholesome state to 
receive the delicate plants intended for them. Prune Roses 
generally; and dress the beds with rotten dung. All trained 
trees and plants should receive attention. March winds are 
often destructive when the precaution of renewing old stakes 


and strings; rotted by the damp of winter, is neglected. Have 
oil and pots in readiness for potting Carnations, for which 
mix three parts of good turfy loam, two parts of well-rotted 
cow dung, and one part of rough sand and charcoal, and re- 
move this compost into the potting-shed. The beds in which 
the choice varieties of Tulips are growing should be protected 
from heavy rains and frost; mats or thick canvas are proper 
materials for this purpose. The covering must be removed 
as the weather permits, otherwise the foliage becomes weakly 
and the stems drawn-up. By giving abundance of air the 
pillars gain sufficient strength to support the flowers without 


the assistance of sticks. Ranunculus seed, which ought to be 
sown now, should be carefully shaded from drenching rains. 
If covered with clean damp moss it prevents the surface from 
becoming dry and hastens the germination of the seed. Auricula 
seed should be sown in pans, making small ridges transversely 
on which the seed may be deposited. By watering between 
these the risk of the young plants damping-off is to a great 
extent avoided. 
GREENHOUSE AND GONSERVATORY. 

All the specimen plants in these houses should be carefully 
examined to see that the roots are in a proper state with regard 
to moisture, and the drainage clear. If you have the slightest 
suspicion that the interior of the ball of earth is in any case 
dry probe it immediately with a sharp-pointed quarter-inch 
iron rod, and give ita good soaking of water from the surface. 
To make assurance doubly sure, place the pot in a large saucer 
of water for twelve or twenty-four hours. After the severe 
weather we have lately experienced, and the extra fire heat 
used in consequence, many plants which will appear all right, 
are, nevertheless, very dry, andif they are not looked to in 
time the March winds will probably leave them 7624 or dying, 
when you little expect them to meet sucha fate. ructing green- 
house plants should be commenced, not completed, at this time. 
Plants supplied with food in proportion to their progress thrive 
better than when over-potted. Hricas must be top-dressed or 
yepotted. Tropolums will require attention. Specimen plants 
of Pelargoniums require to have plenty of room, in order that 
the side branches may not touch each other. Push on Azaleas 
for decorative purposes in a warm, moist atmosphere; at this 
season few plants are more useful. Hpacrises started now, so 
as to get their wood well ripened, may be had in full blossom in 
November. Of Amaryllids and Deutzia spectabilis, there should 
be a good supply; both may be had in bloom early in the 
season, and under good treatment they last long in beauty. 
Many Cinerarias will now be in full blossom, and in warm 
greenhouses will keep up a brilliant display for some time. 
Seed may be saved from some of the best kinds, which, when 
out of flower, may be set aside for that purpose. 

STOVE AND FORCING PIT. 

See that the plants in these structures receive no check. 
Increase the temperature gradually, a degree or two every week, 
and take care to shut up with 10° or 15° of sun heat on clear 
days. Keep a moist, growing atmosphere, and look well to the 
watering and potting of such plants as require it. 


PITS AND FRAMES. 

Maintain a kindly heat in the cutting frame; top cuttings 
which have taken root, and are beginning to grow. Divide and 
pot singly into 38-inch pots the old stools of herbaceous Lo- 
belias. Fill several boxes with roots of Verbena venosa, and 
place them in heat.—W. Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Tr has been a most favourable week for all out-door work. 
Some of our neighbours have been sowing their Onions and 
Carrots; our ground is not yet ready, and we have little desire 
to sow twice over. The ground might now soon be put in good 
order for sowing; indeed, as stated last week, it never was 
drier and sweeter at this season. Still, a press of other matters 
has prevented our getting the ground exactly to our mind, and 
we have a dread of sowing full crops of the above vegetables in 
cold soils even at the end of February. Half a dozen times 
in thirty years we have known Onions and Carrots fail from 
early sowing. The ground in these cases was in good condition. 
The seeds were good, as was proved by sowing earlier in heat, 
and later in the open air, but still the early-sown crop was a 
failure, and in some cases late sowing did not make up for it. 
If we were sure that such weather as we had up tothe 25th 
were to continue, then we should say, Sow Onions, and even 
Carrots, and especially Parsnips; but if we have a sharp frost 
in the middle of March where would the tender chipped seed- 
lings be? There are many things hardy enough for their 
seeds to stand a great amount of cold, and for the seedlings too 
to resist a great degree of cold when they are fairly above 
ground, that will at once give way just when the roots and stem 
emerge from the seed. It is rather singular, and we cannot 
account for it, though we have proved the fact over and over 
again, that seeds of hardy plants sown in spring, after being 
kept in comfortable bags or drawers all the winter, will be 
injured in spring by frost after germination has taken place, 
whilst seeds self-sown in autumn, or sown in autumn and re- 


March 2, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


167 


maining dormant all the winter, will not be at all influenced, 
or if so, only to a slight degree, by the spring frosts. In cold 
soils we have found it of little use to sow Mignonette out of 
doors until the middle or the end of April. Self-sown seeds 
will often stand the winter; and when we have several times 
sown at the end of October we have had fine lines of seedlings 
in May and June, which we would have looked for in vain if we 
had sown in February or March. The seeds which lie all the 
winter in the ground seem to be less influenced by changes of 
weather, and thus remain more dormant until the necessary 
heat as well as the other conditions for germination visit them ; 
whilst seeds carefully saved in bags or drawers, when exposed 
to moisture and a little heat begin to germinate at once, and 
the little stems and rootlets are more liable to injury. We 
merely mention these facts, that our readers may not be in too 
great a hurry inthis tempting weather to eommit their seeds 
to the ground. The middle of March will do very well for 
Onions, the end of March and the beginning of April will do 
well for Carrots, and the middle of April will be time enough 
for Beet, Salsafy, Scorzonera, &. Much earlier sowing will 
be attended with risk, especially if damp and frosty weather 
follow each other. 

We have known a good many cases where seedsmen were 
blamed, and even changed, when they really supplied a first- 
rate article; but the seedlings were destroyed by frost just as 
they had chipped, and before they had a chance of appearing 
above ground. Woe are fully convinced that Onions and Carrots, 
when once the seed leaves are above ground, will stand an 
amount of frost which the seedlings will not do just after 
germination has commenced. : 

In planting Potatoes, &e., by doing the work in a sunny day 
time will be gained, not in regularly digging, but in scraping 
off and laying over the sets the fine, heated, dried, pulverised 
soil on the surface. Weare supposing that the ground has 
been ridged or well dug previously. 

Cabbages.—Our early crops are worse than we expected. We 
have taken up all the soundest out of the wreck, and planted 
them in rows together. We have had small plants, that sur- 
ived in beds, taken up, potted separately, and put under 
glass with a little heat, and these, with plenty of air, are now 
so well rooted, that if next week be fine we shall turn them 
out into finely-pulverised soil, so that the disaster will be as 
little felt as possible. Smaller plants still we have planted 
over a slight hotbed of tree leaves in a rich rough compost of 
rotten dung end loam, and these, when established, we shall 
lift with little balls. We have also pricked off some seedlings 
just showing the first rough leaf, and which will soon be nice 
plants. We are always learning. We have been very success- 
ful of late years from plants sown in the middle and towards 
the end of July. We would be inclined to sow at that time for 
fine early Cabbages, but to sow also twice in September for later 
and surerreturns. If our ground had been poorer, or if we had 
sown some six weeks later, we should have had more Cabbages 
to-day. 

Part of the ground occupied with Cabbage stumps and some 
new Cabbages that have failed, we have had thrown out into 
beds and ridges; beds 4 feet in width for Celery, and ridges 43 to 
5 feet wine for early Peas, as Ringleader, Carter’s and Chater’s 
First, Sangster’s No. 1, and that prolific Pea, Dickson’s Early 
Favourite. The centre of the ridge was made into a hollow 
shallow trench before sowing to give the Peas every chance if 
we should have a dry summer, of which we have a dread, as our 
stores of water are as yet solow. The ground marked out for 
these ridges was first deeply dug and a little manure added, 
then the soil from the trench was thrown on them, the hollow 
made for the Peas well trodden, and the Peas scattered thinly 
in a broad trench after being red-leaded, then patted down and 
covered. We thus generally obtain heavy crops. We are 
obliged to make the most of little ground, and frequently we 
have Lettuces, Radishes, and early Potatoes in the trenches 
before the Celery is ready to plant out. For crisp, sweet Celery, 
decayed hotbed dung, with more tree leaves in it than dung, is 
best. We have grown Celery to enormous size, but now we 
are content with moderate, useful heads. When we used to 
send in huge blanched heads, there was little more went to 
table than from a nice moderate-sized plant. For our own use, 
except seeing that is was crisp, we would care nothing for 
Celery in its raw state, but it would be invaluable to us asa 
component of clear soup; and though anything but healthful 
when green, it is a great help to many, even in a medical point 
of view, when blanched. 


would enable the cottager to have a lot in little room. We 


| generally grow it in beds, three and four rows across, and when 
| the plants are tied there is no difficulty in the earthing-up. 
We have some nice red Celery now, but the Incomparable 
| White has stood well. The great advantage of this is, that if 
you grow a plant 15 inches high you can send a foot of it 
blanched to table, and that is longer than generally goes there 
from the longest head, unless the proprietors of the establish- 
ment will insist on cutting up their own Celery. Very little 
earthing-up is required for this sort—a matter of great im- 
portance, but it must be sown early. The cottager, if he has 
no other means, ought to sow now in pots near his kitchen fire. 
It will repay the extra labour. To our taste no nut is so sweet 
as a piece of crisp well-blanched Celery. 


FRUIT GARDEN. 

We proceeded with pruning and nailing, and gave all the air 
possible to orchard houses to keep the trees back, so that the 
weather may be mild before the blossoms open. The later 
they are in opening the less will be the risk in unheated houses.. 
Plants in pots require to be examined to see that they are not 
too dry. Forced Vines and Peaches will need to be regularly 
stopped, and the shoots thinned. Notwithstanding the absence 
of sun, the Peaches have set well—so well as to render a good 
deal of thinning necessary if the fruit stands well, but after 
such sunless weather, the fruit, though appearing all right at 
first, will frequently drop, the heart proving defective. How- 
ever, there is no trace of this as yet, but it will be prudent not 
to thin too much until time prove them. The chief security 
in such sunless weather is to keep a rather low temperature in 
the house, so that the excitement given shall be in proportion 
to the light afforded. Strawberry plants are now showing well, 
coming strong and fine, and, therefore, Jooking for a pretty free 
watering with weak manure water.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 

J. Carter, Dunnett, & Beale, 237 and 238, Hich Holborn, London, 
W.C.—Carter’s Farmers’ Calendar. 

Clark & Co., 42, Bishopsgate Street Without, London, E.C.— 
Amateurs’ Guide and List of Vegetable, Flower, and Agricultural 
Secds. 

Hooper & Co., Covent Garden Market, London, W.C.— Gardening 
Guide and General Catalogue. 

Sutton & Sons, Readine.—Suttons’ Farmers’ Year Book and Select 
List of Grass and other Farm Seeds. 


TO. CORRESPONDENTS. 


N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next 
week. 


Booxs (H. T. H.).—“ Kitchen Gardening for the Many” can be had 
post free from our oflice for five postage stamps. It details Mushroom 
culture. ‘Fruit Gardening for the Many” details Filbert culture; it 
can be had in the same way for five postage stamps. (J. W.).—We do not 
recognise such a book as you describe. 


Currines (£. M. M.).—Some nurserymen and florists occasionally 
advertise them, but we cannot tell where you can now apply. 


HEATING A BOILER By Gas (P. H. B.).—No one could foretell the cost, 
even ifthe seasons were always alike and you had told the price of gas, 
which you have not. We do not think gas heating suitable to your extent 
of buildings. 

SrLect HotiynHocks (J. W. B.).—The following are good and cheap :— 
Fred. Chater, Gem of Yellows Improved, Alexander Shearer, Blacls 
Knight, Chairman, Lady Middleton, Rev. E. Hawke, Mrs. F. McKenzie, 
Purple Prince, Quadroon, Queen of the Whites, Stanstead Rival, Queen of 
the Buffs, {lluminator, Mrs. Chater, Willingham Defiance, In Memoriam, 
and Lilac Model. 


PLANTING (C. A. Dunn.)—Any trees and shrubs in pots might be planted 
out now, and so may evergreen shrubs in pots; but fruit trees, Roses, and 
other deciduous trees and shrubs not in pots had better not be removed 
until September or October, as soon as the leaves begin to fall. 


GeERANIUM LEAVES SporreD (J. S.).—The leaves have the appearance 
common to those grown in a rich soil, and kept in a close but cold moist 
atmosphere. There is no insect on the leaves. We think if you give 
the plants more air, and only water to keep the foliage from flagging, with 
a position near the glass, and a temperature of 45° or 50°, they will 
recover in a short time. 


NEMOPHILA INSIGNIS AND N. MACULATA IN Ports (4. B.).—Your plants 
being from seed sown last September, they will, though they are now 
showing flower, be suitable for spring gardening, but we should strongly 
urge the necessity of withdrawing the lights of the frame whenever the 
weather is mild, employing them only in very severe weather: indeed, 
harden them off at once so as to plant out by the middle of March. They 
will not flower much before May, unless you keep them under glass. 


CENTAUREA CANDIDISSIMA PROPAGATION (——).—We presume your 
old plants have side shoots 2 or 3 inches long; if not, place them ina 
gentle heat of 50° to 55° until they haye; then take them off close to the 
stem, pare the base smooth with a sharp knife, and insert them singly in 
small pots in sandy soil. Making a hole in the centre of each pot, drop 


A small pieca of ground as a bed, | 


in a little silver sand, then introduce the cutting, fill-in round it with 
silver sand,and make firm. Place the pots ia a» hottom heat of 70° to 
75°, and keep close, moist, aud shaded from sun. Be careful to keep the 


168 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. { March 2, 1871. 


soil no more than moist, otherwise the cuttings will damp off. They will 
make good plauts by the end of May. 


SoLaNuM CAPsIcasTRUM SowinG (M. G.).—Sow early in March in sandy 
turfy loam with a little leaf soil, just covering the seed, and place in a 
hotbed of 70°. When the plants come up keep them near the glass, and 
«hen the rough leaves appear pot the seedlings singly in small pots, and 
continue them in the hotbed, shading from bright sun until established ; 
then harden them off and remove them to a light airy position in a green- 
house. Shift as the plants fill the pots with roots, stopping the side 
‘shoots at the third joint, but training the leader erect, and so as to form 
pyramids. Seedlings do not flower freely, consequently the berries 
during the first two seasons are not numerous. 


ABUTILON sTRIATUM Sowi1nG (Idem).—Sow the seeds in sandy loam 
with a little leaf soil added, and place them in a hotbed, potting-off the 
seedlings when a few inches high, and when they are established remove 
them to’a greenhouse, repotting as they fill their pots with roots. The 
plants will not flower this season, therefore in winter keep them rather 
ary, prune in spring, and repot when the fresh shoots are 2 or 3 inches 
Jong. 

Pyrus (CyponrA) JAPONICA Sow1ne (Idem).—Prepare a pot or pin with 
good drainage, nnd fill it to within half an inch of the rim with light turfy 
loam. Scatter the seed evenly on the surface, and cover it with fine soil. 
The pan may be placed in a gentle hotbed until the seedlings appear, and 
should then be removed toa cold frame. When the seedlings baye two 
or three rough leaves, plant them out in a sheltered situation in lines 
S inches apart, and 8 inches asunder in the rows, shading from bright 
sun for a few days, and watering as required. 


GERANIUMS AND CALCEOLARIAS FOR BEDDING (Idem).—Golden Varie- 
gated: Mrs. Pollock, Golden Chain, Lady Cullum, Cloth of Gold, Luna, 
and Sunray. Silver Variegated : Bijou, Brilliant, Queen of Queens, Lady 
Plymouth, and May Queen. Zonal: Beauté de Suresnes (deep rose), 
Rose Rendatler, Crimson Perfection, Blazer, Little Excellent, Waltham 
Seedling, Sunlight, Christine Nosegay, Le Grand, Excellent, Queen of 
Nosegays, and White Perfection. Calceolarias: Aurea floribunda, Am- 
plexicaulis, Prince of Orange, Prince of Orange (Yellow), Beauty of Mon- 
treal, Gem, and Sparkler. 

Borprer SowING WITH ANNUALS (4. C.).—As you do not wish to go to 
any great expense we would sow in lines, and you will have room for 
twelve at 1 foot apart. Next the edge we would have—1, Lobelia speciosa, 
which will need to be sown in heat, and its growth encouraged, planting 
out in May; 2, Sweet Alyssum; 8, Golden Feather Pyrethrum, 4, Sapo- 
maria calabrica; 5, Mignonette; 6, Nasturtium, Tom Thumb Scarlet ; 
7, Large-flowering Ten-week Stock, violet; 8, Tagetes signata pumila; 
‘9, Perilla nankinensis ; 10, White Branching Larkspur; 11, Blae Branch- 
ing Larkspur ; 12, Prince’s Feather. 


PLANT PROPAGATION (J. L.).—1, Erica carnea is increased by parting 
the tufts, though the long shoots root freely if they are detached and in 
tthe ground, leaving about 3 inches of the growing points outside. 
2, Winter Aconite is raised from seed sown as soon as ripe in any sandy 
soil, and by offsets as soon as the flowering is past. 8, Melilotus leu- 
cantha is raised from seed sown in sandy soil in gentle heat. You give 
the popular name of 2, its proper name is Eranthis hyemalis ; 3, is popu- 
larly known as Melilot ; 1 is known as Early-flowering Heath. 

PLANTING ViNES (Idem).—You will not gain anything by now planting 
young Vines where you intend your new vinery to be. No doubt the 
‘Vines would become well-established as regards roots, but the eanes 
would not ripen, so that you would need to cut down and have a year’s 
growth before you could hope for fruit 


GRAFTING A VINE—FUMIGATING PEACH TREES IN FLOWER (A. B. C.): 
—Foster’s White Seedling will succeed admirably on the Royal Mus- 
eadine. The only effect isin its accelerating the ripening. Fumigation 
with tobacco will not injure the flowers of Peach or Nectarine trees, care 
being taken to deliver the smoke cool, and have the flowers drv. Caloeo- 
‘Javias will flower quite as well if they are planted out where they are to 
‘dower, at the close of March or early in April, protection being given 
them in frosty weather. 


VINES ON THE Back WALL oF A GREENHOUSE (Poplar).—Your Vine 
ought to have been pruned in December. We would now remove any 
Yoose bark, and wash it with a solution of soft soap at the rate of 2 ozs. 
to the gallon, adding enough flowers of sulphur to bring it to the con- 
sistency of paint. You will require but a small quantity for one Vine; 
therefore, only use a proportionate part of the soft soap. Apply the mix- 
ture with a brush. Bring down the cane and train it horizontally at 
‘1 foot from the ground, and it will break at almost every eye; rub off all 
except those shoots which are, as nearly as possible, 18 inches apart, and 
-train these upright to produce shoots for fruiting another year. If your 
cane is planted in the centre of the house, train a shoot from the base for 
covering the part for which you will not this year have a shoot, and in 
the autumn you can train it horizontally, and shoots from it will in due 
+ime come for covering the other parts of the wall. Do not prune the 
Vine now, but as soon as it grows rub away the eyes of the lengths not 
wanted, and when there are leaves cut away any superfluous length. A 
Dettom heat of 7v° is suitable for Geranium cuttings. 


PLANTING GOLDEN FEATHER PYRETHRUM (Ignoramus).—For an edging 
the plants should be 9 inches apart. Woe have double rows and plant 
quincunx fashion, allowing 6 inches between the rows, but the plants are 
9 inches apart. Keep the flowers closely picked off. 

FIYACINTHS IN GLAssEs (Idem).—The flowering being past, your best 
plan will be to plant them out in a sheltered situation out of doors. They 
may recover so a8 to bloom in the out-door borders, where they are very 
pretty in spring. The bulbs are of no use for growing in water again. 


ANNUALS FoR Barty Sow1ne (Idem).—Sweet Alyssum, Bartonia aurea, 
Candytuft, crimson or purple, lilac, and white ; Clarkia pulchella and 
alba; C. elegans rosea and pulcherrima ; Collinsia bartsiwfolia, C. bicolor, 
Erysimum Peroffskianum, TEschscholtzia californica, EB. crocea, Gilia 
tricolor, G. tricolor alba, Branching Larkspur, Leptosiphon densiflorus 
and its variety albus, Limnanthes Douglasii, Lupinus nanus, Lupins 
yellow, rose, white, and blue; Mignonette, Nemophila insignis, N. macu- 
‘lata; Saponaria calabrica and its variety alba, Silene pendula and its 
varieties alba and ruberrima, Venus’s Looking-glass, Virginian Stock red 
and white, Viscaria oculata, and Whitlavia grandiflora. 


ORCHARD-HOUSE CLEANING (A Subscriber).—You must not syringe the 
~imber with a solution of soft soap, as it would fall on the glass and spoil 


it. We would give the house a thorough cleaning, and leave the trees 
alone now that the buds must be swelling. The solution of soft soapand 
quassia chips may injure the bloom buds. The whole of the timber we 


would wash with hot soft-soap solution, and thoroughly clean the glass 
with pure water. 


RE-TUBBING TREE Fern (H. M.).—Now is the best time. In doing so 
we would not reduce the ball, but merely loosen the sides, and transfer 
it entire toa larger tub. Be careful to make the drainage good. 


INDIFFERENT HoRsERADISH (4A Three-years Subscriber).—Judging by 
the piece you enclosed we should say your ground is poor and too heavy 
for this root. Could you vot lighten the soil by trenching it 2 feet deep, 
and adding sand or ashes? We would make a fresh plantation every 
year, and use the roots after two years’ growth; they will then be three 
times the thickness of that enclosed, quite white, and tender. Plant 
full-sized crowns 18 inches deep. That you sent is very woody and of 
bad colour. You do quite right in striving to please, but some cooks 
cannot be pleased, and such as a rule receive far too much encouragement 


from those who ought to discountenance the grumbling of one servant 
against another. 


AMARYLLIS GIGANTEA.—“ W. C.” four years ago purchased a bulb of 
Amaryllis gigantea weighing more than a pound, and it annually makes 
plenty of growth. It is started and grown in heat, but will not flower 
‘Those having succeeded in flowering it will oblige by stating particu- 
lars of treatment. 

HEADING PLum TREES (Constant Reader).—The leading shoot, or the 
central one, should be cut back to within 1 foot of the base of last year’s 
growth to induce the production of shoots for covering the wall, but the 
terminal shoots of the principal side branches should not be shortened 
but left at their full length, unless more shoots are required for covering 


the wall, when it may be necessary to shorten their leaders to obtain 
shoots where such are required. 


ORANGE TREES CASTING THEIR LEAVES AND FLowers (J. L.).—There 
can be no two opinions as to the cause of this; it arises from a bad state 
of the roots, no doubt occasioned by the damp atmosphere and want of 
warmth. You seem to think the roots are all right, but we question that. 
We think the soil is too wet, and the roots not in a healthy state. Remove 
the surface soil down to the roots, and top-dress with light, rich, turfy 
loam, adding a third of fresh horse droppings. The drainage of the border 
in which the pots are sunk we apprehend is not good. A top-dressing 
of cocoa-nut refuse will serve as well as the loam, and some think better. 
Do not overwater at the root, and maintain a temperature of 50° at 
night. The Ferns can have no prejudicial effect, only the rockwork may, 
if it communioates with the border, render the latter too wet, and be in 
effect the evil you complain of. See that the drainage of the pots is good. 


Why not make a good border and plant the trees out ? They do far better 
than in pots or tubs. 


LapaGERIA ALBA FROM SEED (T. H.).—The seeds should be sown now 
in a compost of fibrous peat, covering them with fine soil, and after 
watering gently, place the pots in a hotbed of from 70° to 75°. Keep the 
soil moist, and when the plants appear admit air moderately, and place 
them near the glass. Continue them in the hotbed, or transfer them to 
another if the heat in the first declines, and when the plants are a few 
inches high remove them to a cool stove or warmégreenhouse. We think 
it best to sow the seeds singly in $-inch pots, and transfer the plants to 
larger when the roots show at the sides. The most suitable compost is 
turfy brown peat, torn in pieces with the hand and used rather rough, 
though for young plants it should be smaller than for established plants. 
The drainage should be extra good, as the watering must be copious; 
indeed, it is not possible to overwater if the drainage is efficient. 


REMOVING SHRUBS (4. G.).—You would be acting illegally in removing 
the trees and shrubs without the consent of the landlord. In taking 
up the shrubs be careful to preserve all the small roots you can, and if 
you could lift them with a ball of soil all the better, but any soil falling 
away freely should be removed, as it would be lost in transit, and increase 
the weight without doing any corresponding good. Take up the deciduous 
trees and fruit trees carefully, preserving all the fibres practicable. There 
is no better material in which to wrap-up the roots than dry straw, the 
roots being placed together and then covered with strawto keop them 
from the air. The top will need to be secured carefully with bast matting 
and string to guard against breakage. In addition to covering the roots 
with straw, they should be wrapped in mats if they are to be transmitted 
by rail, so as to make neat packages. You may safely move them at this 
time of year. Could you not remove them ina cart? You would in that 
case save much of the trouble of packing, but it is necessary in any case 
to cover the roots with mats, so as to protect them from the drying in- 
fluences of sun and wind. 


PLANTS FOR THE BACK WALL or A GREENHOUSE (Amateur).—The back 
wall of a greenhouse is not in generala good place for plants. A good 
yellow-flowering plant is Acacia oleifolia elegans, which has been in flower 
with us since last September. Habrothamnus elegans has deep roge- 
coloured flowers, and is fine. There is no scarlet-flowering plant that 
would suit except Camellias, and Monarch, bright scarlet, large, with fine 
foliage, would suit. The best blue is Heliotrope—Voltaireanum being 
geod, and Monsieur Hamaitre fine for winter-flowering. Twelve select 
greenhouse plants are Acacia armata, Chorozema cordatum splendens, 
Correa Brilliant, Cytisus racemosus, Nerium rubrum plenum, Pimelea 
spectabilis rosea, Polygala Dalmaisiana, Rhododendron jasminiflorum, 
Vallota purpurea, Libonia floribunda, Eriostemon linearifolium, and 
Eutaxia floribunda. 

TACSONIA VAN-VOLXEMI GoInG orF (7. H. 7.).—We should attribute 
the falling of the leaves to the cold, and it may be that the plant is at 
rest. We should ascertain the state of the wood, andif that is all right 
we would prune early in March, and encourage growth by keeping rather 
close and warm for a short time. If the wood is dried-up the plant is 
dead, and you will have no alternative but to replant. Our plant in a 
cool greenhouse is now growing freely, and has been growing all the 
winter, showing flower at every joint. It is planted out in the border in 
turfy loam with a little leaf soil. It has not had any water since October, 
except that which drained from the pots on the stage over the border. 


Mare Avcupas (Idem).—Both male and female plants are produced 
from the berries. Plants raised from berries of one plant are partly male 
plants and the rest female plants. The males are of more slender growth 
than the females, and the leaves havea tendeucy to droop, but there is 
no certain mode of distinguishing the male from the female plants until 


te 


. 


oy aes 


March 2, 1871. ] 


169 


they flower, or form buds for flowering. The flowers of the female may | the latter were most exquisite in colour and lacing, the former being 


be impregnated, though the male flowers appear much earlier, by collect- 
ing the pollen when dry on clean white paper, and keeping it in a dry 
cool place until the female plants flower, then dusting the pollen over 
them. , 


Wixtp DeEcorative Piants (4 Welshman).—We cannot advise you, not 
knowing the flora of your locality. Why not judge for yourself and 
employ any ornamental plant that you observe? We once saw a table 
well decorated with the leaves and flowers of Herb Robert, Geranium 
Robertianum. 

AGE OF VINES FOR VINERY PLANTING (Mary).—One-year-old are to be 
preferred if well grown. 

PLANTING A VINERY (R. Rayne) —You may plant Vines in the vinery, 
to be taken longitudinally along the stove house, and to be brought back 
into the vinery to winter. Three would do, and these we would make 
two Muscats and one Hamburgh. The Vines in the vinery ought to 
answer very well. If you wish them to have the whole house in summer 
and to have plants chiefly in winter, then have eight Vines. If you 
want flowering plants in summer, then five or six Vines would be enough. 
For succession we would haye—Dutch Sweetwater, Royal Muscadine, 
Black Hamburgh, Black Muscat of Alexandria, Black Prince, Trentham 
Black, Bowood Muscat, Lady Downe’s, and Trebbiano. 

PARADISE APPLE AND QUINCE STOCK PropaGation (C. 7. H.).—Paradise 
stocks are increased by layers at this season, it being necessary to have 
good “stools” to begin with, and these it will take you some time to 
establish. Layers made now will be fit to detach in November, and may 
be planted in lines 2 feet apart, and 6 inches from each other in the lines. 
Tn two years they will be fit to graft. Cuttings may also be put in now 
firmly in sandy loam, teking them off about 8 inches in length, with a 
small portion of old wood, and removing all the eyes except the three 
uppermost ; all, except that part with the eyes is to be placed in the soil. 
Water, if necessary, and cover with a hand-glass, removing it in July. 
Shade from bright sun as required. Your best plan would be to purchase 
afew stocks. Quince stocks are raised from cuttings, taking the young 
wood, and cutting it into Jengths of 10 inches. The treatment is the 
same as for Apple cuttings. They may also be raised from layers and by 
suckers. The cuttings will be rooted by autumn, and may then be 
planted out the same as the Paradise stocks. It would serve you better 
to purchase rather than to propagate. 

Name or Fruit (D. B. T).—Golden Noble. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


RESULTS OF POULTRY-KEEPING. 


I wit state my experience as a beginner. 

i have three Brahma pullets and one cockerel, hatched in 
May last year. The first pullet commenced to lay on November 
24th, the second on December 14th, and the third on Decem- 
ber 17th. During this period, the pullet that first commenced 
to lay has been brootly for a fortnight. The total quantity of 
eggs they have laid up to the present date (February 11th) is 
155, a result, I think you will admit, much more favourable 
than that referred to by your correspondent, Mr. R. Wilson. 
My feeding has been barleymeal in the morning, and Indian 
corn or barley in the evening, at a cost for each fowl of about 
13d. per week.—E. 


JUDGES CLAIMING BIRDS AT POULTRY 
SHOWS. 


Some of my friends have directed my attention to a letter inserted 
in the Journal of last week, from Mr. James Watts, of Hazlewell 
Hall, reflecting on the claiming of pens of poultry by one of the 
Judges at the late Wolverhampton Poultry Show, prior to its being 
opened to the public. Permit me, as one of the Judges, to state I 
was not inculpated in this transaction in any way, for so far from my 
ever making the office of poultry-judge a matter of pecuniary gain, at 
all the Wolverhampton Shows, under the management of various 
poultry committees, I have at once willingly complied with their desire 
that I should arbitrate for them, but of my own free will it has always 
been a gratuitous duty, and though comparatively a trifling amount, 
my unavoidable cab and railway expenses have also been detrayed out 
of my own pocket. The simple fact is this, that I never bought or 
sold a single bird at any one of these Shows.—Epwarp Hewirr. 


THE WAVERLEY POULTRY AND PIGEON 


SHOW. 


THE Waverley Poultry Association’s fifth Exhibition was held at 
Melrose on the 22nd and 23rd ult. Of Poultry and Pigeons the 
entries were larger than at any previous show, but there were very few 
specimens of small birds. While the birds were under the care of the 
Committee they were well attended to, and were seldom left by Mr. 
Park, who acted in the place of Mr. Turnbull, the Honorary Secretary, 
who was ill. 

Of Silver-Grey and Dark Dorkings there were some good birds, 
though the entries in these classes were not numerous. In the Spanish 
class Mr. Waugh, of Melrose, showed a grand cockerel, and there were 
several other very good male birds, but not one good hen. The winning 
Cochins were both Buffs. The White and Partridge varieties were too 
small to compete successfully. In Brahmas the winners were of the 
Dark yariety. The second-prize birds were larger than the first, but 


also rather rusty in hue. There was but one class of Game, which we 
consider a mistake, but there were some good birds, although several 
pens seemed to be sadly overshown. The winners were Black Reds, 
the first-prize birds being in splendid bloom, and perfect in shape and 
handling, though in the latter respect they were scarcely equal to the 
second-prize birds, although these were not up to them in appearance. 
There were not many entries in the Hamburgh classes, but the winners 
were as good as could be desired, the Golden-pencilled pullets being 
excellent in marking. Among the Golden-spangled Hamburghs one 
of the hens was found to be trimmed, and was immediately disqualified. 
The first-prize pen in this class was an even pair of birds, well shown. 
The Silver-pencilled were good, but the first-prize Silver-spangled 
were a grand pair. In the Variety class a valuable pair of Créve- 
Coeurs were first, Silver Polands second, and Black Hamburghs third, 
bat a nice pair of Black Polands were too late for competition. 

All the classes of Bantams were well filled, but many pens were 
somewhat out of condition. Of the Black Red Game Bantams, one 
pen, which otherwise would most assuredly have won, were discovered 
to be very neatly shortened on the fourth and fifth pinion feathers of 
each wing, and were disqualified at once. The first-prize pair in that 
class were excellent. There was scarcely one really good Black Red 
cockerel with the proper quota of broad feathers in his tail, some 
showing a vacancy at the top, and others at the bottom, and whether 
by accident or design we know not; but if the latter, we would advise 
the exhibitors of that variety never to take feathers out of a Game 
fowl’s tail, as nothing tends more to destroy the symmetry and com- 
pactness of appearance so desirable in the breed. In the next class 
a very pretty pair of Piles was first, good Brown Reds being second. 
Of the Bantam single cocks, the first-prize bird was a grand Black 
Red cockerel, and the second a very good Duckwing. Several hand- 
some pens of Bantams were too late for competition. 

There were not many entries of Ducks. The Aylesbury were very 
good in quality, but the Rouens even better. The first prize in the 
Variety class was taken by Mandarins, and the second by Black East 
Indian. There were some good birds in the cottagers’ class. The 
Turkeys and Geese were of the highest merit, both as regards size 
and plumage. 

In the Pigeon classes the Fantails were good in style and carriage. 
The first-prize Pouters were Blue-pied, and the second White. The 
latter were of great length, but not in showing condition. The first- 
prize Nuns were a grand pair, and in nice order, but an excellent pair 
was left out, being evidently out of health. The winning Jacobins 
were both Reds; the first-prize birds were very good in hood and chain. 
In English Owls only the first-prize pair and the second-prize cock were 
of the true type, most of the others being too straight in beak. The 
first-prize Tumblers were Almonds, good in all points, and the second 
Kites. The winners of the first prize in the Variety class were a very 
handsome pair of German Letz. The second-prize went to a nice 
pair of Black Austrian Peuters, the third to good Black Trumpeters, 
and the fourth to a very neat pair of White African Owls. 

Dorxines.—Silver-Grey.—], D. Hardie, Hawick. 2, J. Cunningham, Jar- 
breoch, Kirkcudbright. hc, Karl of Haddington; T. Raines, Stirling. ¢, F. L. 
Roy, Nenthorn. Dark.—l, D. Gellatly, Meigle. 2, T. Raines. he, D. Hardie. 


SpanisuH.—1, D. Waugh, Melrose Mill. 2, Sanderson & Oliver, Morpeth. 
he. D. Waugh; E. Fearon, Whitehaven; R. Douglas, Langholm; A. Walker, 
Kilmarnock. 

CocuHin-Cuina.—l, — Jacob. 2, E. Fearon. he, J. W. Will, Errol; E. Fearon; 
J. Radoch, Rusley, Glasgow. _c, J. H. Dawes, Moseley Hall. h 

Branua Poorra. —1, W. Brownlie, Kirkcaldy. 2, L. Stewart, Edinburgh. 
he, T. Raines. c, T. Simpson, Melrose; L. Stewart. 

GameE.—l, J. Brough, Carlisle. 2,D. Hardie. hc, J. W. Will (8); J. Hender- 
son, Musselburgh. c, A. Dewar, Linton, Cluny; D. Harley, Edinburgh; J. 
Logan, East Shiels, Carnwath. < 

Haupurous.—Golden-pencilled.—1, W. R. Park, Melrose. 2, A. Pratt, Kirk- 
caldy. he, J. W. Will; W.R. Park. Golden-spangled.—l, R. Dickson, Selkirk. 
2, H. Pickles, jun., Barby. he, J.W. Will. Silver-pencilled.—i, H. Pickles, jun. 
2, R. Blackburn, Choppington, Morpeth. Stlver-spangled. —1, J. W. Will. 
2, Ashton & Booth, Mottram. hc, W.R. Park. c, F. 4. Roy; Miss Dunn. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—1, W. R. Park (Créve-Cceur). 2, H. Bowker, Keighley 
(Silver Polands). 38, J.P. Faweet, WEED Y (Black Hamburghs). vhc, E. Fearon, 
Whitehaven (Polish). he, W. Bearpark, Ainderby Steeple (Silver Polands); 
R. Parsons, Bedlington (Polands); W. R ¢, J. Logan 
(Houdans) i 

GamE Bantams.—Black Red.—l, G. Hall, Kendal. 2, J. W. Will. he, D. 
Hardie; T. Raines; W. Brownlie. Any other Variety.—l, Bellingham & Gill 
(Pile). 2, J. W. Will (Brown Red). he, J. Archibald, Earlston (Brown Red); 
W. Brownlie (Duckwing); D. Harley (Brown Red). 

Bantams (Any other Variety).—l, Mrs. Hardie (Black). 2, Miss R.C. Frew 
(Black). he, J. Archibald (Japanese); s.&R. Ashton, Mottram, Manchester; A. 
Johnston, Bathgate. Cock.—l, G. Todd, Monkwearmouth, Sunderland (Black 
Red). 2, T. C. GE.Newbitt. he, G. Miles, Newatead (Black); J. Ferry, Cowpen, 
Morpeth (Brown Red). c, W. Goddard, Barlston (Black Red); J. Gibson, Mel- 
rose (Japanese); W. Scott, Jeaburgh. _ 

Ducxs.—Aylesbury.—l, J. Scott,Newhall. 2,J.W. Will. ¢,J. Grieve, Broom- 
7, Melrose. Rouwen.—l and 2, D. Hardie. Any other Variety.—l, 8. & R. 

shton. 

SELLING Cuass.—l, W. R. Park. 2,J.Scott, Newhall. hc, E. Fearon. 

CorraaErs’ Crass.—l, J. Beattie, Rink, Selkirk (Brahmas). 2, Mrs. Waugh, 
Melrose (Spanish). he, Sanderson & Oliver, Morpeth (Spanish); W. Linton, 
Selkirk (Créve-Ceur). c, R. Renton, Dingleton (Spanish); T. Brown, Melrose ; 
E. Strickling, Brackenthwaite, Whitehaven. 

TurKEYs.—1, Earl of Haddington. 2, A. Johnstone, Bathgate. c,J. Logan 
(Cambridge.) 

GEESE.—1, D. Hardie (Toulouse). 2and he, J. Logan (Toulouse). 


PIGEONS. 

FantTains.—l, A. Crosbie, Melrose. 2, M. Crosbie, Gattonside. hc, Miss B. P. 
Frew. 

PoutERs.—l, M'Gill Skinner, Edinburgh. 2, F. M‘Grae, Aberdeen. he, J. 
Coutts, Ellieston, St. Boswells; G. B. Phillips, Ayr. 

Nuns.—l, R. Paterson, Melrose. 2, W. Bearpark. he, J. Turnbull, Melrose. 

JAcoBINS.—l, W. ©. Easton. 2, k'. Moore, Burnley. hc, R. Paterson; J.G. 
Spence. c,J. Campbell. 4 


. Park (Créve-Ceur). 


170 


TureEITs.—1, R. Paterson. 
ce; F. L. Roy. — 3 

Owns (English)—1, R. Paterson. 2,W.Goddard. he,J.Contis; J. G. Spence. 

TumpbLEeEs.—l, F. Moore. 2, F.M‘Crae. he, W. Goddard; A. Johnston. 

ANY OTHER Vapiety.—l, A. Crosbie (Letz). 2, W. Goddard (Austrian 
Ponters). 3. T. Rule (Trumpeters). 4, W. Goddard (White Owls). he, W. Taylor, 
Durham; T. Rule (Trumpeters); W. Bearpark; W. Goddard (White Owls); A. 
Johnstone, Bathgate (Porcelains). 

SELLING Ciass.—l, W. Goddard (Ice Pigeons). 2, J. Campbell (Carriers). 
he, G. B. Phillips (Magpies). c, A. Hutton, Carolside (Jacobins); J. Turnbull 


(Fantails). 
CAGE BIRDS. 

Canatres.—¥Yellow Don.—i, G. Laidlaw, Galeshiels. 2, J. Muirhead, Gala- 
shiels._ he, R. Laurie, Melrose. Buff Don—1, G. Laidlaw. 2, W. Bogie, Mel- 
rose. hc, A. Polson, Galashiels. Yellow Flecked—1l,A Polson. Buff Flecked. 
—1, R. Hunter, Tillicoultry. 2, A. Polson. Common.—i, C. Mann, Newstead. 
2, J. Gibson, Melrose. 

CacE Brrp (Canaries and Goldfinches excepted).—l, J. Turnbull. 2, Miss E. 


Waugh. 
GOLDFINCHES.—1 and 2, R. Paterson. jic, W. Bogie. 


The Judge was Mr. E. Hutton, Pudsey, Leeds. 


FARM BREEDING AND MANAGEMENT OF 
POULTRY. 


We have been requested to state that in the report of the discussion 
which followed the reading of a paper on this subject by the Rev. G. 
A. Brooke, at a recent meeting of the Midland Farmers’ Club, the 
remarks of Mr. T. B. Wright were given in an abridged form, and 
consequently in one or two instances did not fully represent the views 
of the speaker. We therefore readily comply with a request, and give 
the remarks of so good an authority from another and more complete 
report. 

Mr. Wricut said that the first point which occurred to his mind was 
that it was impossible to lay down any strict rule as to the breed which 
should be recommended to be universally kept. Difference in climate, 
soil, and convenience had to be considered. Some poultry required 
great ranges, while others dd well in confined spaces. Such varieties 
as Game or Hamburghs would be worthless if kept in a confined space. 
With regard to keeping poultry generally, one of the great difficulties 
was that two runs or yards were requisite—one for the old and the 
other for young birds. Without such accommodation it was almost 
impossible to keep them profitably or satisfactorily. Many of their 
agricultural friends had out-barns, where the chickens could be sent 
when old enough to leave the hen, where they could be fed at little 
cost, and thrived admirably. Where they had not two walks it was 
well for friends to join—the one to keep the old breeding stock and the 
other the young birds. With reeard to which was the best variety of 
fowls for farmers’ use, in anything like a favourable situation the 
Dorkings were to be reeommended. In the number of eggs they laid 
they were not equal to either the Hamburghs or the Brahmas; but for 
the table there was not a breed equal to them. They were very fair 
foragers, getting their own living as faras possible, and very well repaid 
the food they ate. They came to market great weights at a tolerably 
early age—a couple of pullets, for instance. weighing from 10 to 11 lbs. 
at eight months old. In damp localities Dorkings would not do, as 
they were in such situations liable to roup ; the latter tendency arising 
generally not so much from the nature of the fowl, and their liability 
to that disease, as from want of care on the part of persons who keep 
them. If Dorkings were not so much crowded together, they would be 
very much less affected by roup. With regard to roosts and the care 
of poultry, he had been very fortunate in hatching a considecable 
number of chickens every year. He had only a small roosting place, 
and till he could kill them off they were very crowded. Notwithstand- 
ing that, however, he had rarely any disease among them; and when 
disease did appear it was always introduced by fresh birds from another 
district. What he did was to have the roosting places swept out every 
morning, and the floor sprinkled with sawdust and MacDougall’s 
disinfecting powder ; and he recommended every poultry—an4 he might 
say stock—keeper to use the latter, as a preventive of disease. As to 
feeding, a variety of food was to some extent necessary; and he thought 
that some errors were committed in regard to feeding. For his own 
part he never used Indian corn, as it made the poultry fat and gross, 
and the eggs had not the right flayour. The food he had used for a 
long time had been a small but good sample of English wheat, and 
barley ; the latter, when steeped, being an excellent thing for Lringing 
fowls into high condition. He soaked the grain one day, putting it 
afterwards into an iron dish in the oven or near the fire until it was 
sprouted a little. With regard to large kinds of poultry, which wanted 
plenty of bone-forming material, bran, sharps, and meal were very 
useful; but the best thing he had found for his young Dorkings, in 
addition to other food, was a good sample of small white peas, which 
were not expensive keep. In regard to other varieties of fowls, for an 
amateur who wanted beautiful objects abont his place, there was no- 
thing superior to the Silver-spangled Hamburghs. They were constant 
layers and non-sitters; while, for the table, he was quite certain that 
no poultry could surpass a couple of young cockerels of this variety, 
hatched in April, and killed about November or December, weighing 
about 10 lbs. or 11 lbs. The pencilled were very beautiful, but more 
delicate ; but one of the most useful of all fowls, especially to the in- 
habitants of our towns or villages, was the old-fashioned Copper Moss, 
Moonies, Golden Pheasants, or ‘Red Caps,” as they were called in 
some localities, which, he was sorry to say, had been deteriorating for 
a number of years. Ifa large supply of eggs of good size was wanted, 
no yariety was better. If some of their friends could induce the 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


. tive, flat backs, but no breasts. 


[ March 2, 1871. 


2, A. Crosbie. he, R. Paterson; W. E. Easton. | Cochins to abandon their propensity to sit, they would be doing good 


service. He had had them sitting for months on a heap of stones. 
They were not, as a rule, very good for the table. A young Cochin 
cockerel, about fiye or six months old, would have consumed a wonder- 
ful quantity of food, but after that age they were not good, and the 
pullets were never so. Brahmas might find fayour as an amatenr’s 
fowl. They were handsome, and laid well; but they were not table 
fowl, he should say. Malays were a valuable variety, and he was sur- 
prised they had not received more attention. They were not hand- 
some in appearance, but, as’a table fowl, most excellent. He thought 
crosses of all kinds in poultry were decided mistakes. They had been 
told that the best of all crosses was that between the Brahma and the 
Dorking. For two years he took the opportunity of testing this point 
fully with some of the best strains, and when the birdswere Killed they 
were not so heavy by 3 or 4 1bs. the couple as some pure Dorkings 
which were hatched at the same time. The crosses had broad, decep- 
He thought this was the case with 
regard to all crosses. Unless there were plenty of rain in the spring, 
and the worms appeared, poultry never throye so well; and the last 
three seasons had been against them in that respect. A great mis- 
take was made in the manner of killing poultry. Much of the poultry 
which came to town was killed, plucked, and sent to market at once. 
They should be fasted nearly a day before killing, and hung a week or 
a fortnight according to the state of the weather, when the meat would 
be much better and much more nutritious. 


RABBIT SHOWS—THE UNITED KINGDOM 
RABBIT CLUB. 


Mucu has been said, little has been done, respecting Rabbit 
shows of recent date. Suggestion follows suggestion very 
rapidly, but no suggestion is adopted as the final basis upon 
which a modified exhibition is to be founded. The proposed 
Society is a very good idea, and I hope the project will be 
responded to by all the fanciers of London, who seek their 
standing in the provincial towns, owing to their not haying e 
suitable exhibition of their own. Ido not doubt such a society 
will be successful in attaining its object, but it is necessary 
that an enterprising gentleman should take the matter in hand. 
I beg to propose that a committee be formed; that a selection 
of one or two gentlemen be made from each town where the 
idea is entertained, so that all may be fairly represented; that 
the preliminary steps be taken by the projectors; and that they 
shall nominate the gentlemen (if willing) who are to officiate as 
the committee. I believe no place could be more suitable for 
the show than the Crystal Palace, but of course this is an after 
consideration. ; 

Respecting the Colchester Show, I perceive by the list that 
asum of £12 is given for prizes, and I am indeed surprised 
only £3 should go to the Lops, whereas the remaining £9 is to 
be equally divided among the three variety classes. 

‘Ts the Rabbit fancy on the decline?” is a question often 
put, and readily answered. The statistics of the numbers of 
entries, not including the varieties and lengths of the respective 
Rabbits exhibited, would not fail to convince the}most prejudiced 
gentleman that the ‘‘fancy is steadily increasing every year.” 
Although I see no decline in the fancy, yet I perceive no desire 
for improvement, such as is exhibited by poultry and other fan- 
ciers. I know no reason why the Rabbit fanciers should not 
count among their numbers gentlemen with enterprise equal to 
those who wield the affairs of other societies.—A. G. C., London. 


Iam greatly delighted that my suggestion, as to the forma- 
tion of a United Kingdom Rabbit Club, has met with the ap- 
proval of all respectable fanciers; and in taking the first step, E 
have invited all the Rabbit fanciers in York to meet me on 
Tuesday, March 7th, in the saloon of the Lecture Hall, when I 
shall be prepared to explain my scheme ; also, to receive sugges- 
tions, consider rules, and to enrol members. I shall be glad if 
those fanciers in the United Kingdom who cannot attend this 
preliminary meeting, and who are favourable to the cause, 
would at once write to me and state their opinions as to how 
such a club shall be worked, the rules, &e. I hope to receive 
hundreds of letters from all parts, and be warmly supported by 
the fanciers. I have a strong conviction thatif this Club be 
founded upon a simple and sound basis, it will add greatly to the 
numbers and to the respectability of the fancy.—M. Mrmrineron, 
York. 


BEES NEAR WOLVERHAMPTON. 


Ir is an old observation that dry summers are productive of 
honey and wet ones productive of swarms, and this no doubt 
as a rule still holds good. Our summers of late (probably 


owing in part to the extensive draining and felling of timber - 


March 2, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


171 


which has been carried out), seem to have become much drier 
than they were formerly; and in this district the excessive 
drought of such seasons as 1868 and 1870 exercises a very pre- 
judicial influence upon the ensuing summer by destroying the 
crop of Dutch clover, which is the principal source from which 
the bees collect their honey harvest. In 1868 I obtained a large 
quantity of first-rate honey, but the drought of the summer 
almost entirely destroyed the clover for the following season, 
so that although the weather in 1869 proved very propitious, 
the bees were for a great part of the summer almost entirely 
idle, and only collected sufficient honey to supply their daily 
requirements. The result was that they refused to eater the 
supers, and all the combs in the stock hives and nadirs were 
completely filled with brood; and although the bees had ample 
accommodation they exhibited an almost uncontrollable ten- 
dency to swarm. For several weeks I overhauled my storified 
hives every seven days, and was obliged to excise royal cells 
time after time to prevent the issue of swarms. At last a 
copious honeydew made its appearance upon the beech trees, 
on which the bees were eagerly occupied from morning till 
night.. They at once entered the hitherto-neglected supers, and 
speedily laid up a considerable store of honey of a very dark 
inferior quality, bearing a strong resemblance in colour and 
¢onsistency to common treacle. 

In 1870 the bees at once took to their supers, within a few 
hours of the time when they were put on, and I obtained a 
tolerable harvest of beautiful clover honey; but I fear the 
drought which prematurely closed last season has destroyed 
the clover roots for this summer, and so impaired the prospects 
of the coming season. In localities where the permanent turf 
abounds in white clover, the prospect is much more favourable. 
Yn 1869, when our clover, sown to succeed barley, was entirely 
ruined, in Cheshire and other favoured localities the bees were 
able to amass large stores of excellent honey, whilst we were 
entirely dependent upon honeydew.—J. E. B. 


REGICIDE BEES. 


You printed an article at page 131, describing the death of a 
queen in consequence of strange bees getting into a hive. It 
said ‘‘a few.” How can they cause the death? 
regicides, or does their presence make the others become so? 


_ [The intrusion of strange bees into a hive will frequently 
induce an attack upon the queen. It is, however, a debateable 
point whether the assault is made by the strangers alone, or if 
the regicidal spirit be also communicated to the native bees. ] 


NEW BOOK. 


By Dr. Buvan. Third Edition. 
Munn, &e. London: Van Voorst. 

We have now lying before us a new volume, which professes to be a 
third edition of Dr. Beyan’s work onthe honey bee, ‘‘ revised, enlarged, 
and illustrated by William Augustus Munn, F.R.H.S., &.” Know- 
ing that the book originally published by Dr. Bevan has long been 
held in high estimation by the public as a valuable text book and ex- 
ponent of English bee-kmowledge up to the time at which it was 
written, though now far behind the wants of the age, we were prepared 
to welcome an edition that would give by way of notes or addenda a 
full account of the progress of apiarian science. But so far as infor- 
mation respecting recent discoveries and acknowledged improvements 
in apiculture is concerned, the book now submitted to us for review is 
utterly worthless. Its so-called revision has resulted in rendering it a. 
medium for advertising and puiling the merits of a cranky and unsightly- 
isu hive, which was patented by Major Munn in France a few years 
} This hive was never either admired or approved of by us, and 
though it may serve for some experimental purposes, a glance at 
its cramped combs and ridiculously small frames will be enough 
to convince anyone who knows aught of the habits and necessities of 
bees, that it is quite unsuitable for the purpose of abundant honey- 
gathering. Major Munn would like it to be believed that he was the 
inventor of the frame system ; he even takes credit for it, and asserts 
that whether frames be square, oval, or triangular, they are all 
founded on the bar frame which he introduced in 1834, and that the 
square is that which all bee-hive makers have copied from 1844. This 
1s mere assertion, and without any adequate foundation. It is pre- 
posterous to say that Munn’s hive has been copied either in Europe or 
America, or that its invention gave any impetus to scientific bee-keep- 
ing. We are only informed now of his attempt to use square frames ; 
‘his triangular ones were merely devised to enable him to lift his combs 
into observation-frames, and so far was he from considering them 
truly moveable, that he at first fixed them to the hive by means of 
hinges. Dzierzon was the first to develope the use of moveable-comb 


The Honey Bee. Edited by W. A 


Do they turn | 


hives into a system, and that he did not copy Munn is evident from 
the fact that he has consistently stuck to simple bars, and neither uses 
nor recommends frames of any kind. All Major Munn’s tall talk 
about ‘‘a hive within a hive,” “natural habitat,” &c., is nonsense. 
Long before his day Huber employed a hive of moveable frames; and 
as similar frames, but improved in construction, were encased in wood 
fifty years ago by the late Dr. Dunbar, of Applegarth, for the double 
purpose of preserving internal heat and protection against cold—the 
“hive of hives,” or ‘‘ hive within a hive,” is a very old affair indeed. 

Frame hives are very convenient to the scientific apiarian, but it 
may well be doubted how far they conduce to the natural well-doing of 
bees. Langstroth in America and yon Berlepsch in Germany invented 
almost simultaneously the modern moveable-irame hive, and there is 
not the slightest reason for supposing that either of them had seen or 
heard of Major Munn’s contrivance. 

i‘ is to be regretted that in the new edition of Bevan’s work the 
result of a lawsuit, whereby an attempt to upset Langstroth’s patent 
on the ground of want of originality, should have been mis-stated. It 
really ended in establishing the validity of Langstroth’s claims, and 
he afterwards obtained an extension of the term for which the patent 
was granted. The Major in his advertisement says that he feels 
“somewhat reluctant to challenge any criticisms on his alterations 
and additions,” and well he may, for the only warrant we can find for 
them is an “idea,” which, he states, was once mooted between Dr. 
Bevan and himself, that the survivor should carry on the experiments 
they had so often discussed by letter in regard to “‘ my bar-frame hive.” 

What, then, has this survivor done, or rather undone? The frst 
thing that strikes us is a new arrangement of chapters. For no good 
reason the old and most natural has been upset, and the frequent 
references in the various chapters to other chapters bearing on the 
same subject, which was one of the most valuable features in the 
original work, have been coolly omitted, apparently for no other end 
than to be spared the trouble of rewriting them. By the aid of this 
new arrangement the Major has managed to introduce into different 
places the greater part of a pamphlet published by him in 1851, and 
which, but for this circumstance, might soon have passed into oblivion 
like its predecessor. We observe also that very unnecessary alterations 
have been made in the language of Dr. Bevan, and sometimes, as in 
the case of the circular theory of cells (which we believe to be the 
correct one), the Major reverses the Doctor’s opinions without giving 
his readers the slightest hint that he hasdone so. Major Munn has not 
only suppressed matter containing valuable information, but he has, by 
interpolations in no way distinguished from the original text, made Dr. 
Bevan give expression to sentiments of which he would have been 
ashamed. Save us all from such friends. The public now, with this 
mixture of Bevan and Munn only in their hands, cannot tell what 
belongs to one and what to the other. Discoveries that belong ex- 


| clusively to Munn will be attributed to Beyan, and this will be a great 


pity, for to Munn belongs the credit of revealing things hitherto un- 
known to the best apiarian authorities. For example, he tells us at 
page 65, ‘‘ The sole object of a colony leaving with the old queen is 
that she may perish after her last laying.” Page 69, ‘‘ Queen bees 
apparently cannot feed themselves.” Page 74, ‘‘ After the second 
year’s commencement swarming must take place, or the death of the 
old [queen] will.” Page 78, ‘‘ Whenever this piping commences there 
is alvays a queen bee imprisoned within the large drone-like cells in 
the centre of the combs.” Page 195, ‘‘I have evidence that the 
queens are compelled to make their flights twice in each year of 
their lives, which is but for two after all.’ Such nonsense, and so 
contrary to what are facts, ought never to have been associated 
with the name of Dr. Bevan. And when, we would ask, did bees 
become unable to elongate brood cells? or give up the practice, in the 
first instance, of closing them with wax? Perhaps it was at the same 
time that the “inclined floors” of bar-frame hives were found to be a 
‘sufficient guard,” and the collateral system met, in some measure, 
the requirements of the queen by leaving one side for the daughter to 
reign, whilst the mother ‘‘can continue her egg-laying, and augment 
he numbers before she perishes in the natural course of things.” We 
cannot advert to all the Major’s grand discoveries, but there is one 
which must not be passed over—viz., “‘endosmosis.” It appears that 
larye require food, and in our ignorance we imagined they devoured it 
after the manner of other animals. It is not so; incredible as it may 
appear, the lary are nourished by absorption; the process is called 
‘* endosmosis.” 


We are sorry to say that we have as little faith in the truth of this 
great discovery as in the utility of the Major's invention. The man 
who fails to correct mistakes is very liable to make them. Though 
the text of Bevan has been much altered, ‘“‘ fawa cowvain (as Schirach 
calls it),” still appears in the chapter on diseases of bees. Why did not 
the Major point out Dr. Bevan’s mistake, and tell his readers that 
“ faux couvain”’ is the French translator's equivalent for ‘‘ foul brood,” 
and what Schirach really wrote was the German “ faulbrut.” The de- 
scription which the Major gives of the disease called foul brood, its 
causes and mode of cure, is absurdly inaccurate. He would have done 
well before wasting his ink to have taken instructions on the subject 
from T. W. Woodbury, Esq., of Mount Radford, Exeter. 

We hope it is not this gentleman referred to in the advertisement, 
by the name of ‘‘W. E. Woodburry, Esq., of Exeter ;” as the correct 
designation is known to every apiarian of any standing, whether at 
home or abroad. We are sure that if the manuscript or proof-sheets 


172 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULIURE AND COTIAGE GARDENER. 


~[ March 2, 1871. 


had been submitted to this gentleman, he would either have corrected 
the numberless errors that appear in the third edition of Bevan, or 
recommended that the interpolations should be thrown into the fire. 
Whilst they relate nothing that is really new, they are radically defective 
in giving little or no information upon many important subjects con- 
nected with bee-keeping. When the learner has read and digested the 
whole work, he will find that he has both been misled and left in igno- 
rance of much that every well-instructed apiarian knows. He will find 
that senseless alterations, like that at page 82, where ‘‘if the swarm be 
gathered,” is put for “‘if the place,” oras at page 265, where Bevan is 
made to say in regard to bees seeing better when flying than when crawl- 
ing, ‘“‘ but this is unlikely,” have quite perverted and contradicted the 
teaching of Dr. Bevan. He will be led to suppose that the evidence for 
the doctrine of parthenogenesis is based entirely on fallacies, and that 
Munn has given the doctrine a fatal blow by this single statement, 
“a few drones generally remain until late in the autumn.” 

We close the book before us without any regret, save for its pub- 
lication. It brings our knowledge no farther down than the period 
when Major Munn first published his pamphlet, and the illustrations 
added to it are very bad. We would recommend those who wish to 
possess themselves of a copy of Bevan, to get the work as it emanated 
from his own hands. 


WoopprmGE Pouttry, Pickton, anD Canary SHow.—The entries 
for this Show close on Monday next, March 6th. We understand, 
should this be a success, the Show will be continued annually. A 
liberal prize-list offers encouragement to exhibitors. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Fowts RoostrnG NEAR A KILN (W. G.).—We have no reason to believe 
it injurious, nor do we believe it is. If the sulphur predominates too 
much, increase the ventilation. We do not believe artificial heat is ever 
beneficia]. Our theory is to supply heat internally by means of food. 


Price oF EccGs NEAR Lonpon (R. W.).—We have no doubt that near 
London or any very Jarge town eggs may be sold at 1d. each all the year 
round. Butitis with them as with everything else produced before its 
season; if you expect to make the largest average you must produce 
things at the scarcest time, asit is then they realise most. Thus eggs 
from the 1st December to the 1st February frequently make 3d each, and 
when it was once known yours were to be depended upon they would 
always make ld. each. You will never get twothousand eggs per week 
on four acres of land. 


FEATHER-EATING Hens (W. W.).—Some fowls have the hateful propen- 
sity you mention, but we have never found it except where they are shut 
up. We have never had it among fowls at liberty. We cannot help 
thinking yours must have been in confinement when they began. We 
advise you to rub all those that have been plucked with compound sul- 
phur ointment. If they are unable to leave their roosting-house at day- 
break and yet have daylight, they then begin to peck. If they haye ‘full 
liberty let their house be quite dark, so that they cannot see each 
other. When they are let out let them be scattered about as much as 
possible. It is probably only a small number of the birds that indulge 
this propensity ; note them, catch them, and shut them up singly. Baskets 
will be large enough forthem. Hens are far more addicted to pecking 
than cocks. We believe the bird that seemed inclined to pick himeelf 
was more disposed to scratch on account of itching. 


DESTROYING THE VITALITY oF Eces (C. H.).—There are many modes. 
Some pass a needle straight through the egg, others resort to a vigorous 
shaking; some give the end a tap just hard enough to crack the shell. 
To put the egg in boiling water fora moment is effectual; but the best 
plan, if you want no fertile eggs, is to keep no cock. 


Cri:vE-Ca@ur’s Ciaws (J. L.).—A Créve-Ceur fowl with five claws isa 
cross-bred bird. 


SILVER-PENCILLED HamBurRGHSs’ Marxines (4A Beginner).—The feather 
would be better if the markings were more cleanly cut. Such a feather 
as you enclose has a tendency to make what is called ‘‘ mossy plumage,” 
lacking distinctness. The earlobe should not be large, the size of a four- 
penny-piece is large enough. We should prefer the bird from which the 
feather is taken greatly to one deficient in comb and earlobe. The breast 
should not beas dark as the back, but it should be well pencilled. The 
more regularly the flight feathers are marked the better ; white ones are 
a disqualification. 

BRAN 48 Pouttry Foon (Hermit).—We have the greatest objection to 
bran aa food; it is worthless, and therefore it is immaterial whether it is 
mixed with hot or cold water. It is about equal to a meal of sawdust for 
ourselves. Give ground oats or barleymeal morning and evening, and 
some whole corn for the midday meal. 


CocHIN PULLET UNABLE to Move (Lemon Buff).—The pullet is in all 
probability egg-bound. It is acommon complaint with pullets, especially 
with their first eggs. Pull out a flight feather, dip it in oil, pass it down 
the egg-passage till it meets the egg; keep on lubricating the feather and 
‘introducing as much oil as you can till the egg comes away. You may 
ascertain by feeling that the egg is in the passage, but it must be done 
gently, as a broken egg is almost always fatal. You must be very careful 
you put the feather down the egg-passage, as otherwise the operation is 
useless. If old Cochin hens are very fat, reduce the food; they will, not 
Jay while they are very fat. 

BREEDING SEBRIGHT Bantams (E. T.).—If the lacing be quite distinct 
the lighter colour may be only the result of the two breeds, Golden and 
Silver being kept together; this is frequently done. But if the lacing is 
getting faint and indistinct you want fresh blood. Your friend has 
advised you rightly, but it is a long and troublesome process, snd we 
advise you to get a Sebright cock, 2 dark one, from some one who breeds 
carefully and makes up his breed as he goes on. From the frequent in- 
troduction of these black hens it is almost certnin you will buy fresh 
blood. All you have to dois to see yon get a dark one. 

GrRouND OaTs FOR “owLs.—*‘ T. H.” informs us that they are sold by 
Mr. C. Dowlen, Flanchford Mill, Reigate, Surrey. 


Fowris Dyrnc SuppEenty (S. H.).—The time of feeding (9 4.1.) is not 
the cause of death. Probably tke birds are too fat; you say they are 
“full of flesh.” Give them barleymeal mashed with water; the mixed 
barley and rye just before roosting time. Do not give the fat youname. 

CHICKENS’ Lrcs Crampep (J.J.).—Keep them dry and warm, give a 
decsertepcontnl of castor oil if constipated, and feed on oatmeal moistened 
with ale. 

BLUE Romps 1N CARRIERS AND DRaGoons (F. C. Hassard).—A full 
answer to tais question was given in our number for January 26th, which 
see. 

MATING 4 WHOLE-COLOURED BLUE JACOBIN HEN (K. P.).—If we under- 
stand you aright, your bird is entirely blue-head, wings and tail included. 
We are utterly at a loss to help you, not knowing anyone who has such 
birds. A pair of whole-coloured Blacks were exhibited at the great show 
at the Crystal Palace last December; perhaps the owner could help you. 
If you matched with an ordinary coloured Blue bird, we fear the produce 
would be broken-capped, and impure flights and tail, yet the experiment 
would be worth trying, and patience might be at length rewarded. We 
cannot undertake to put a price to birds. A pair of good birds would be 
valuable; one is useless. 

CANARIES AT THE CrysTaL PaLace SHow.—Several letters relative to 
our criticisms have reached us, some agreeing with our remarks, some 
dissenting from them, but we cannot insert them. We will readily insert 
opinions, howeyer contrary to our own, upon any characteristics of 
Canaries, but we cannot insert criticisms upon criticisms, which neces- 
sarily lead to replies. 

_ AMERICAN CHEESE Boxes For Napirs (A. J. #).—We should be glad 
if any of our readers who have used these boxes would state if they 
require any special cleaning. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 


CAMDEN, Square, Loxpon. 
- Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Date. 9 AM. [ In THE Dar. 
gue ¥ | | Shade Tem-} Radiation iS 
1871. |zMaAd Ey EEO Ts Direc- |Temp.| perature. |Temperature| § 
Sen 428 tion of of Soil i——____| 2 
Feb. |S25= Wind. | at 1 ft. In On | & 
mee | Dry. | Wet. Sun. Grass. 
deg. | deg. deg. deg.| deg. | In. 
35.2 34.5 41.0 81.1 | 29.2 = 
44.0 | 42.3 40.8 102.4 : $2.2 _ 
43.0 | 418 403 63.3 | 38.0 | — 
43.8 | 40.9 40.5 71.3 | 39.2 _ 
38.5 | 38.8 | 41.0 66.3 | 36.2 | 0.069 
50.4 | 49.1 41.5 85.0 | 39.3 | 0.041 
51.0 47.8 42.3 66.2 6.1 | 0.025 
43.7 | 42.7 41.1 76.5 | 
REMARES. 


22nd.—White frost in the morning, fine day. 
23rd.—Very fine day. 
24th.—Dull morning, and during the day, windy at night: 
25th.—Cold dull day. 
26th.—Dull morning, fine afternoon, windy after 9 P mM. 
27th.—Rain with wind in morning, wind increasing toa gale at night. 
28th.—Wet in morning, fine about noon, rain again at 2.45 P.a., and tilt 
night, barometer rising sharply. 
Another mild week, temperature considerably above the average, and 
again nearly equal to that of the first week of April.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Marcu 1. 


WE have but little alteration to report; the improvement noticed last 
week has continued, and the present fine weather has materially altered 
for the better the character of those articles raised under glass, impart- 
ing to them both quality and colour. A fair amount of business is doing. 
The Potato trade is steady at the following rates per ton—Flukes, 100s. 
to 120s.; York Regents, 80s. to 100s.; Scotch, 703. to 90s. 


FRUIT. 
s,d. s. d 5. d. s. @ 
AppleS...ccescovee tsieve 1 6 to3 0) Mulberries.. . 0 0 tod 0 
i 0 0 O 0} Neetarines. 00 00 
lb. 0 0 O O| Oranges. 6 0 10 0 
0 0 18 G| Peaches . 00600 
0 0 O 0} Pears,kitchen. ORES 0 
00 00 80 8o0 
0 0 0 O| Pine Apples. 60 100 
00 2 0} Plums... 00 00 
2 0 2 6/} Quinces . 00 00 
0 0 0 O| Raspberries. 00 00 
6 0 12 0| Strawberries . 00 00 
Lemons.. 6 0 10 0} Walnuts... 00 160 
Melons.... 10 40 dO...cecceceeeee P100 1 0 2 0 
VEGETABLES. 
B. 
Artichokes...-...... d0z. to0 he eksieces> see bunch to 

Lettuce see COZ. 

Mushrooms ...... pottle 

Mustard & Cress..punnet 


. bushel 


Cele: 
Coleworts..doz. bunches 


pickung 

Endive.... 

Fennel .. 

Garlic 2 
Herbs.... Turnips ....... .-. bunch 


ooo WOH OE DOOHMOCNONICD 
CWOMDROSDROMOMOSDOVOSSSS™ 
= 
AOSSCOSCHOMNWROONWHHWONS 
eooocoocooceomoocomescocoo™ 
COORD OWHOOMMSOONOROHHOD 
Smoomoaemoooworowoon® 
SOCTI OUMNH HERRON DONOWINO® 
mPeoacooeasoosoosooaoon 


Vegetable Marrows..doz, 


March 9, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 173 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Deva ebay, Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s | ,Clock | Day 
bea aoe MARCH 9—15, 1871. ture near London. |43 years.| Rises. | Sets Rises. | Sets. Age. peter aoe 
| Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. |m. h.|m. h.| m. h.| m. h.| Days, |m. 5s. 

9 | TH | Meeting of Royal Society, 8.30 p.m. 49.2 | 81.1 | 40.1 12 Blafi6 | 5laf5 | Vaf9 | 5lat7 18 10 46} 68 
10 ay | 49.6 | 81.6 | 40.6 16 98 6/58 5 | 22 10/12 8 19 10 30 69 
li |S | 49.1 | 82.2 | 40.7 19 |.26 6|.55 5 | 45 11:)36 8) 20 10 14), 70 
12 | Sun | 3 SunDay IN LENT. | 50.4 | 32.2 | 41.8 21 238. 6|57 %5|morn.| 3 9 21 9 58] 7 
13°) M Meeting of Royal Geographical Society. 50.4 | 34.0 | 42.2 15 Bab fs 1) oO aE eh eG) C 9 42] 72 
14 Tu | 50.8 | 84.4 | 42.6 20 1s 6 0 6)22 2] 23 10 23 9 25 73 
15 Ww Royal Horticultural Society, Hyacinth 50.6 | 33.6 | 42.1 21 169) 6) 2y7 65/29) 38°17 TL 24 9 8| 74 

(Show, Fruit, Floral, & General Meeting. | 


From observations taken néar London during forty-three 


years, the average day temperature of the week is 50.0°, and its night tem- 


perature 82.7°. The greatest heat was 67°, on the 1Jth, 1826; and the lowest cold 7°, on the 10th, 1847. The greatest fall of rain was 


0.68 inch. 


POTATOES. 


AVING disposed of the Yankies, and waited | 
to see if anyone had a word to say for them, 
and having had my opinion confirmed by so 
good an authority as my friend Mr. Rivers 
(I may add, by Mr. Radclyffe as well), I 
must now have my say on the English va- 
rieties I have tried, and here I get into 
troubled waters. I wish to be fair and 
impartial, to ‘nothing extenuate or set 
down aught in malice,’ but withal it is not 

easy. There is, first of all, an immense confusion in the 
nomenclature of the varieties. There is, secondly, the 
confusion created by Potatoes receiving names as dis- 
tinct sorts, when they are only selections; and there is, | 
thirdly, the undeniable fact to battle with, that soil, 
situation, and climate make such radical changes that it | 
is almost impossible to predicate positively concerning 
many varieties. : 

With regard to nomenclature, it is remarkable how the 
same variety receives different names in different locali- 
ties, and very often in the same locality; thus I believe | 
that Webb’s Imperial, Dawe’s Matchless, and Glory of 
England are one and the same Potato; while round Po- 
tatoes have an infinite number of names. Great confu- 
sion arises also in this way—a gardener in a neighbour- 
hood has taken great pains with his Potatoes; he acts on 
the principle of selection, saves only good seed, and at 
last obtains a superior stock; this becomes known, his 
neighbours get it, and, having no better way of marking its 
distinctness, they add his name, and then by-and-by the 
original name is lost, and the gardener is best remembered. 
He leaves the neighbourhood, little thinking that his care- 
ful culture has added another element of confusion. I will 
take one example: when Mr. T. C. Sage was at Sir 
Edward Dering’s, in this neighbourhood, he paid much 
attention to Potatoes ; he obtained a good strain of Myatt’s 
Prolific, he- carefully selected his seed, and at last obtained 
the very finest strain of that variety I have ever seen. 
Several in this neighbourhood have obtained it; to distin- 
guish it we have marked it Sage’s strain. Well, Mr. Sage 
has, unfortunately, left the neighbourhood, and by-and-by 
we shall, I venture to say, find this kind called Sage’s 
Prolific, or some such name; and possibly it may event- 
ually fall into the hands of some grower for sale, who, 
ignorant of its history, and believing it to be something 
new, may send it out under that or some different name. 
Tt will be seen, then, from the tenor of these remarks, 
that I do not believe that one-third of the new, or so-called 
new, Potatoes are seedlings, but selected strains. Of those 
that are seedlings, amongst Kidney Potatoes I believe we 
may trace a good deal of the Fluke and Ashleaf strain, 
and that where this cross has been made, the more there 
is of the Ashleaf and the less of the Fluke, the better the 
Potato will be. Instead, then, of entering into descriptions 
of those numerous varieties which I have grown, and a 
great many of which I shall never try again, I shall merely 
select such as I have thought ought to have something , 

No. 519.—Vou. XX., NEw SEsres. 


_ better in some soils than others. 


said of them; and, first of all, as I believe, fucile princeps 
amongst Potatoes 

The Lapstone—A cross between Myatt’s Prolific and 
the Fluke, I should say three parts of the former and one 
of the latter, deriving from the former its earliness, and to 
some extent its delicacy. It is a Potato that will only 
thrive in good soil. Mr. Douglas, who can grow anything 
that will grow at all, says that about Ilford, Leyton, &c., 
they cannot grow it. I have found it do best in garden 
soil, although I have known it grown successfully in fields, 
but then the soil was good; it will not thrive in very light 
or very heavy soil. It is not a poor man’s Potato, but I 
Inow none that can compare with it for a gentleman’s 
table. 

Carter's Ashtop Fluke is a very handsome-haulmed 
Potato, and the tuber is well shaped, but it has, to my 
taste, too much of the Fluke; many would not consider 
this an objection, and would be inclined to give it a trial. 

Headley's Seedling, or Headley’s Nonpareil—This was 
sent out last season by Mr. Alfred Fryer, of Chatteris, and 
this season by an eminent London firm. I was inclined at 
first to think very highly of it, but have modified my opinion. 
T have detected a twang in it which does not please me, 


| and tasting it the other day at my friend Mr. Banks's, I 


noticed the same again. I am sorry, for it is very hand- 
some and prolific. For general use I am sure it must be 
a favourite. 

Royal Ashleaf—This is probably a selected strain of 
Myatt’s, raised by J. Ashwin, Esq., and Mr. Rivers having 
carefully grown and selected the stock, it is now better 
known as Rivers’s Royal Ashleaf. It is an early Potato, 
Mr. Radclyffe is a warm 
advocate for it, but I prefer Myatt’s Prolific, which comes 
in about the same time. 

Haigh’s Kidney—This has been sometimes strangely 
given as a synonyme for the Lapstone ; it is not so, although 
raised, I believe, by the same man—Major Haigh, a shoe- 
maker (not a military man), in Yorkshire. It is later than 
the Lapstone, not quite so good, but withal a very excellent 
Potato. and follows the Lapstone. 

Yorkshire Hero—A very handsome light-skinned Po- 
tato of which my friend Mr. Radclyffe thinks very highly. 
It is unquestionably a good Potato. Unfortunately I had 
a poor crop of it, and saved it for seed, the greater portion 
of which I lost by frost. 

Myatt’s Prolific —Of all the early Potatoes I have tried 
none can compare with this, and a good many which come 
out under various high-sounding names are, I fully believe, 
only strains of it, modified somewhat by soil and situation. 
T have never seen so fine a strain of it as that to which 
I have already alluded as being in Mr. Sage’s hands at 
Surrenden. In flavour and appearance I place it at the 
head of all the early kinds. 

Webb's Imperial, Dawe's Matchless, Glory of England.— 
These are one and the same, I believe. It is a Potato 
which with many persons holds a very high place, very 
prolific, attaining a large size, and handsome in appearance, 
but I could never see that it possessed the first requisite 
of a good Potato—fine flavour. It will, however, in many 

No, 1171.—Vou. XLY., OLD SERIES, 


174 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTIAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 9, 1871. 


soils, from its greater hardiness, take the place of the Lap- 
stone. 

Red-skinned Flourball (Sutton’s).—An enormous cropper, 
and a yery large even-sized round Potato, too large for steaming 
purposes, but a good Potato for baking—better for this than 
any I know, except one, the name of which escapes me, which 
I had sent me some years ago by Mr. Thomson, then of Archer- 
pelt: Those who like a ‘‘ baked tater” will be glad to grow 
this. 

Beaconsfield (Turner)—A very handsome Potato, similar in 
appearance to Headley’s Nonpareil, and evidently of Fluke 
origin. I tried it for some time, and felt inclined to rely upon 
it for 2 main crop; and where the Lapstone cannot be grown, 
it will be found very useful. 

Harris's Nonpareil (Cutbush).—A handsome and well-flavoured 
Kidney Potato, a very good cropper, and apparently tolerably 
hardy in constitution. 

King of Potatoes.—I heave never been able to grow this Po- 
tato to give me any satisfaction, yet I hear it constantly praised 
as a fine variety. 

Paterson’s Victoria.—I again tried this Potato this year, as 
80 many wondered that I could not give a better character of 
it, but 1am unable to alter my opinion. To me it has a coarse 
flayour; it is well-suited for field culture and for market- 
gardening purposes, but I should not care to grow it for my own 
use. Ji is very prolific, and the tubers are very close home 
round the haulm. 

Blandford Kidney.—Alveady grown under other names. It 
did not do well with me, so that I am unable to speak of its 
merits. 

Bryanstone Kidney, raised at Lord Portman’s at Bryanstone, 
near Blandford. Mr. Radelyffe sent me two tubers of it, but, 
as I said before, everyone of them went bad, s0 I have had no 
opportunity of testing it. My friend thinks highly of it. 

Prince of Wales.—To the pigs, if they will eat it. Question- 
able if they have any taste. 

Dunbar Regents.—Of all late round Potatoes, this and some 
other strains of Regents I consider to be the very best. A good 
cropper, good in flavour, and floury, suitable for most soils, 
and likely to please most palates. 

Such are the notes I have made. I am prepared to find 
them controverted, for tastes differ, and localities affect dif- 
ferent varieties, but they are honestly made from my point of 
view. Ihave received one or two kinds this year which look 
promising—Carter’s Main Crop, a very smooth-looking, round 
red Potato, with very shallow eyes; and Cambridgeshire Kid- 
ney, from the same firm, which looks well; but I have now 
done with trials of Potatoes. I am contented, for my own grow- 
ing, with Myatt’s Prolific, the Lapstone, Haigh’s Kidney, and 
Yorkshire Hero. And I have found about here a very dark- 
purple Kidney Potato which promises well, and seems tocome 
in very late. For kitchen use I should take Headley’s Nonpa- 
reil, Red-skinned Flourball, and Dunbar Regents. 

Since the above was written I have seen Mr. Lewis’s note on 
Harly Rose. I pride myself on having Potatoes well cooked, 
and although I think better of Harly Rose than of any of the 
other Yankee notions, yet in wet seasons and close soils it will 
not do.—D., Deal. 


ASPECT FOR TEA ROSES. 


As the articles concerning Roses which so frequently appear 
in “our Journal” are principally from the pens of amateurs, 
so the advice given is not always applicable to the practice of 
the professional gardener. The amateur, controlling and fre- 
quently doing much of the work of his garden himself, is more 
likely to advocate a system of culture or management best 
suited to his own taste or convenience than one adapted to the 
numerous requirements of a large garden. The truth of this 
reasoning has lately been exemplified in some communications 
on Tea Rose culture, one writer preferring an east wall to train 
his plants to, while another cares for no wall, but thinks an 
open bed best. Both methods may be very good, but neither 
is sufficiently comprehensive for practical purposes. 

All who have had much work with the regular routine of 
dressing vases and maintaining a supply of cut flowers, must 
be aware of the great value of Roses, and especially of the 
classes known as Tea and Noisette Roses, for such a purpose. 
In order to haye a supply of these desirable flowers as long as 
possible, it has been my practice to plant some of the same 
kinds against walls facing all sorts of aspects. Thus, I have 
had such kinds as Gloire de Dijon and Souvenir @’un Ami on 


left for air at the top, and the same in front. 


walls facing north, south, east, and west, some plants being 
fully exposed to sun and wind, others somewhat sheltered by 
surrounding trees, and I have even planted them in obscure 
corners partly shut in by trees, so that I could be tolerably 
certain to have some of these charming flowers throughout the 
season for bouquets and vases, 

The culture of Roses is so simple and easy that it is sur- 
prising they are not more grown than they are. Many an ont- 
building or wall might have its naked unsightly surface turned 
to good account for such a purpose. All that is necessary is 
care in guarding the plants from blight or insects, protect- 
ing them in very cold or exposed situations in winter, and 
affording them a sound rich soil and generous treatment, for 
the Rose is a regular gourmand, thriving best under a liberal 
regimen of fat manure and rich liquids. Unlike the animal 
glutton, it never becomes so obese as to appear unsightly; on 
the contrary, its stout rampant shoots clothed with luxuriant 
foliage yield a proportionate profusion of magnificent stout- 
petalled flowers. 

This high feeding can only be practised where there is plenty 
of wall space on which to train the luxuriant growth; where 
the plants are in confined situations the reverse of this treat- 
ment must be applied. In the latter case I would advocate an 
almost starvation system, only giving the plants just sufficient 
nourishment to keep them healthy, the aim being to secure 
miniature plants which will afford a supply of those pretty 
little flower buds so useful to intermix with larger or expanded 
flowers in bouquets. 

But apart from the great usefulness of the flowers for such 
purposes, Tea Roses have many valuable properties, entitling 
them to a high rank as decorative planis. In the choicest 
varieties much elegance of form, both in foliage and blossom, 
refinement of colour, and delicacy of perfume are developed. 
The flowers, too, are produced so freely and continuously, that 
Tea Roses might be styled the Perpetual Roses with more 
justice than the class now known as such. Let us not mind 
about aspects, then, but rather try to utilise every spare foot of 
wall space in the production of flowers so charming, so useful, 
and, above all, of such easy culture—Epwarp LuckHURST. 


THE EARLY VINERY—GRAPES IN POTS. 


Tur Harty Vinery.—So much has been written on this sub- 
ject that I cannot be expected to bring anything new to light, 
but I will just note a few facts which may assist the amateur. 
While Grapes may be grown in any glass structure, there are 
certain forms of structure most suitable for producing given 
results, and early Grapes, by which I mean Grapes ripe in 
April. 

Our early vinery, which I had built, has given me great satis- 
faction. It has at one end an Orchid house, at the other the 
late vinery, so that it is well sheltered from cutting winds. I6 
is 14 feet wide, has a front sash 2 feet in height, and the back 
wall is 14 feet high. There are four 4-inch pipes round the 
front and ends, and one 4-inch pipe at the back wall; every 
sash on the roof is moveable, so that an inch opening can be 
I never give air 
in front until colouring commences. The wires to which the 
Vines are tied are not nearer the glass than 15 inches, so that 
in hot weather a current of air passes between the foliage and 
the glass. The leaves should never come in contact with the 
glass, for when they do I haye seen them frosted in a clear cold 
night, and turn yellow. Ihave over one of the pipes troughs 
or steaming-trays, which are kept full throughout the growing 
season ; these steaming-trays afford moisture to the air of the 
vinery, and warm water for syringing. 

Onr late vinery is the seme as the early vinery, only there is 
one 4-inch pipe less in the front. It is 14 feet wide; there is 
at back a 4-feet path of York pavement, and the border is 
10 feet wide inside, and 10 feet outside. 

The soil of the border was taken out to the depth of 2} feet 
at the back, and in the outside portion 34 feet, and there is a 
drain at the bottom 4 feet deep. The bottom of the border 
was made on a uniform slope, and payed with bricks, among 
which thin cement was brushed into every crevice. On this 
were built the pillars upon which the arched front rests. 
Above the pavement was put a foot deep of brickbats, the 
smallest being kept at the top; then a little lime rubbish free 
of dust, and on this turves 2 inches thick, grass side down- 
wards. The compost I used was principally formed of a friable 
loam, which had been stacked six months; this was broken up 
while dry with a spade or fork, and mixed with half-inch bones 


| 


March 9, 1871. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


175 


at the rate of half a hundredweight to the cartload, some char- 
eoal, including wood ashes, and one cartload of old lime rubbish, 
and the same proportion of leaves, not too far decayed, to 
every ten cartloads of soil. This, then, is the soil in which 
my Vines grow. Our soil being light, I made my border under 
the general ground level rather than above it, as is sometimes 
seen. Of course, if my soil were clayey I should have made 
the border above ground. Ours at the highest point, just in- 
side the front wall where the Vines are planted, is only 1 foot 
higher than the ground level. Ishould also advise means of 
affording bottom heat to be provided, but not for amateurs, as 
with them cost is a great consideration. 

Grapes 1n Pots.—I propagate my pot Vines two years before 
they fruit; the eyes are selected from the early vinery, as such 
start into growth with more freedom and with less artificial 
heat than if taken from later-forced Vines. Six eyes are 
placed in 2 6-inch pot, and plungedin a Pine pit with a bottom 
heat of 80°, while the temperature of the atmosphere is be- 
tween 55° and 60°. As soon as they have made three leaves 
they are potted singly in 4-inch pots, and when the roots have 
covered the ball of earth the Vines are removed into 8-inch 
pots, which will suffice for the season. The soil used in pro- 
pagating consisss of equal parts of leaf mould and light loam, 
pressed into the pots firmly to prevent its absorbing much 
water. 

The plants are placed in the early vinery, and the shoots 
trained to the wires. By the 1st of October the wood will be 
ripe enough to admit of the Vines being placed in the open air, 
and, by the end of the month, to be cut back to two eyes. All 
the care afterwerds required till they ure again taken to the 
forcing house will be protection from frost, and affording a 
sufficient supply of water to prevent the rods from shrivelling. 
I have tried many composts, but for the cultivation of pot 
Vines I prefer the same soil as that used for borders. 

At the commencement of the second year the pots are first 
thoroughly soaked with water and set upon the hot-water pipes. 
The buds will begin to start in the course of a month, when 
the weakest are rubbed off; the remainder will grow strongly, 
so that at the point where the old and young wood join roots 
are freely produced. I then have the Vines shifted into the 
fruiting pots, which are about 14 inches in diameter, sinking 
the base of the young wood a little below the surface of the 
soil. The depth of drainage is about 2 inches, one half of it 
being half-inch bones. In repotting, the loose roots are ex- 
tended towards the outside of the pot. The soil should be 
warm, moderately dry, and pressed sufficiently firm, but not so 
much s0 as to prevent the water from passing off freely. The 


pots are replaced on the hot-water pipes, and the Vines trained | 


to the wires, the laterals being removed when they begin to 
overgrow the bud. During the season of growth I supply 
liquid manure twice a-week, and the guano used is just suffi- 
cient to colour the water, which is applied warm. 

By this treatment I produce shoots 14 feet long and 14 inch 
in circumference, and have them ripened by the Ist of July. 
They are then placed out of doors in a north aspect to give 
them all the repose that the season will allow, and they receive 
whatever pruning may be required. 

The Vines are brought into the house in November and well 
watered, the surface of the soil in the pots being covered with 
sheep dung. I use an atmospheric temperature many degrees 
higher than that which is necessary in ordinary cases, so I start 
with 65° by day and a night temperature of 55°, and maintain 
the same uniform heat till the buds begin to move, when the 
temperature is reduced to 60° by day and 55° by night. This 
may be thought excessive, but it is no more than enough in 
November. I usually take from six to eight bunches from 
each Vine, averaging about a pound weight. During the 
swelling period the Vines are well supplied with guano water, 
a good handfal of guano being placed in a four-gallon watering- 
pot, which stands on the pipes so as to keep the water warm. 
A good watering of this is given once a-day until the berries 
commence to colour. I stated in my former paper (see page 97) 
the sorts which I grow, and therefore it is unnecessary to 
notice these further than to mention my reason for forcing 
late Grapes. I have found Lady Downe’s when so forced 
hangs longer than any other Grape in an early vinery, so it 
just comes in with the Muscat of Alexandria in August, as we 
like to have black and white at the same time. 

GENERAL MANAGEMENT OF PERMANENT VinES.—In our early 
vinery we have Hamburghs ripe to succeed those in pots. I 
start the Vines in December, watering with water quite warm, 
and it is by no means a small quantity which they require, as 


four 4-inch pipes 6 inches from the surface dry up the border 
considerably, and when one would fancy enough water had 
been given, at 6 inches below the surface the soil will be found 
dust dry; therefore, those who have Vines planted inside 
should be careful that the water passes down to the drainage, 
before concluding they have given enough. I do not surface- 
dress the border inside until I am sure the water has reached 
every root. The outside border takes care of itself. I have 
not so much as covered it yet, as the roots are still inside ; 
when wanted in the winter dry leaves thatched with straw 
make a good covering for outside borders. I surface-dress 
inside with sheep’s dung and half-inch bones. This dressing, 
the abundant waterings, and the four 4-inch pipes 6 inches 
from the surface, suit the Vines well. I once a-day damp the 
house with liquid from the stable tank. This is done early, so 
that all bad smell is gone by noon. Of course I am careful 
that the liquid does not wet the foliage of the Vines or other 
plants. The benefit it does is very great, apparently in con- 
sequence of the ammonia which it sets free in the atmosphere 
of the vinery, the leaves becoming dark green, and a leaf of 
Lady Downe’s which I measured last summer was 15 inches 
wide. Ido not approve of the young wood being too strong ; 
from 1} inch to 2 inches in circumference I call strong. 

As already stated, the steaming-trays are kept full, damping 
the paths, &c., and air is given as early in the day as the 
weather will permit, shutting up early in the afternoon. Iam 
not afraid even if the temperature of the house be 100° in the 
afternoon, but a little air is admitted all night. Vines started 
early should have the buds thinned, and as soon as the bunches 
can be perceived in the points of the shoots they should be 
thinned, and the berries also immediately after flowering. There 
is no greater error, when endeavouring to secure well-finished 
Grapes, than cropping too heavily, especially in very early 
forcing. I grow my Vines on the spur system ; and as quality, 
not quantity, is the aim, only from ten to twelve bunches are 
allowed to remain. I stop the shoot one leaf beyond the 
bunch, and when it grows again I stop at the next leaf, and so 
on, and the same course is pursued with lateral shoots, taking 
the point out as they make another leaf. 

I have grown Vines on many different systems, but this I 
consider the best. I have, after the first stopping, allowed all 
the laterals to grow, but this I consider untidy. I have also 
not allowed a leaf or lateral to make its appearance after the 
first stopping. Neither plan is bad, for I have seen splendid 
Grapes with no stopping, and so I have with severe stopping. 

I recommend that the colouring should be a slow process, 
plenty of air with a little fire heat being given. I protest 
against the barbarous system of pulling off Vine leaves to let 
the sun play on the bunches, to ripen them as it is supposed. 
I would never take off a leaf until it ripened and fell off 
naturally. I know this recommendation is contrary to the 
advice of many Vime-growers, but I have proved that the 
practice is wrong, for L have seen bad results follow. 

I have said nothing of diseases, such as shrivelling, rust, 
spot, bleeding. insects, and mildew, cach oi which would take 
a, paper to itself. 

In referring, at page 97, to the importance of » damp and 
dry atmosphere, I meant the troughs to be kept full of water ; 
as printed, the sentence reads not full—C. M. McCrow, Nash 
Court, near Faversham. 


VERBENAS ATTACKED WITH SPOT OR RUST. 
VINE BORDER. 

“ S, W. J.,” whose inquiry is on page 139, will find nothing 
like a mild hotbed for his Verbenas. A few years ago I had 
the misfortune to have a fine lot attacked in the way described; 
as I used Verbenas largely at that time, it would have been a 
misfortune to haye lost them, and having an idea that a hot- 
bed would bring most of them round, I prepared for them a pit 
that was heated with hot water, filling it with leaves, well trodden 
down, to within a foot of the glass. Before placing the plants 
in it I had them gently rapped out of the pots, and the crocks 
removed and replaced with pieces of charcoal. The plants 
were then returned to the pots, and those most affected dusted 
with lime; nexi day they were well syringed with warm water ; 
they were then kept close for a week, and afterwards the 
syringe was used freely, giving a little air in fine weather. In 
about a month I found I had managed to save about one-half 
of the plants, and these were growing very freely ; indeed, I 
had; more cuttings than I wanted. I let a few of them grow, 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ March 9, 1871. 


and by the middle of March was rewarded with some fine pots- 
ful of flowers, which I had neatly tied-up to four sticks placed 
at the edge of the pot, with three rings of matting run round, 
in the same way asfor Mignonette. Since that time I have used 
32 instead of 48-pots, for striking, putting a cutting in a pot, 
using charcoal instead of crocks for drainage, and placing over 
the charcoal rough pieces of leaf mould till the pots are three 
parts full. Ithen fill up with white sand and sifted leaf mould in 
equal parts, and place the pots in a hotbed till the cuttings are 
rooted ; afterwards I keep them in a cold frame till the pit is 
ready to receive them again. The pit, after having been emptied 
of the old leaves, which were then well decayed, was refilled 
with fresh leaves as soon as they could be collected ; on these 
the pots were placed, and enough fire heat given to keep out 
frost and cause a circulation of air in dull weather. I quite 
agree with Mr. Robson, that failing a heated pit, there is no 
place so suited to the Verbena as a shelf in the vinery. 

I find Verbenas, when bedded-out, thrive best in a clay soil 
enriched with good rotten dung in the autumn. 

I have my suspicion that the cause of the disease in some 
instances is watering with water containing iron. 

I grow a fine lot of Cucumbers in the pit after the Verbenas 
are taken out, by putting a ridge of good loam along the 
middle, on the leayes, and planting one good plant under each 
light. 

In reference to ‘‘ W.’s’’ report on the state of his Vines, 
I should adopt his second method, and, if possible, make a 
narrow border inside, planting young canes between the pre- 
sent, and in, say five years’ time, entirely doing away with the 
old ones. He could then make or remake the border and plant 
under the rafters as usual, growing the Vines planted inside 
for a crop till those outside could take their place.—W. Cuarx, 
Cheshunt. 


PLUNGING POTTED CHRYSANTHEMUMS. 


I HAVE noticed recently in the Journal a discussion on some 
of the details of the culture of the Chrysanthemum, and that 
special reference has been made to plunging the pots during 
the summer months. 

The subject of plunging or not plunging pots containing 
growing plants is of more interest and importance than is ap- 
parent at first sight. People have arrived at the conclusion 
that if the pots are plunged much less water will be required, 
consequently there will be a great saving in labour, and that 
the ultimate result will be the same. But if the matter be 
patiently and carefully investigated it will be found that the 
roots formed in a pot that has been plunged are of a very dif- 
ferent class from those formed in circumstances where the sun 
and air have been allowed to play freely around and underneath 
the pot; and an experience of some years has led me to the 
conclusion that flowers and fruit of better quality are obtained 
from plants and trees which have not been plunged than from 
those which have been so treated. I am alluding now more 
particularly to orchard-house trees and Chrysanthemums or 
other flowers which we find necessary to accommodate with a 
position out of doors. Even in Pine-Apple culture there is dif- 
ference of opinion on this matter. 
on a neighbouring gardener, I noticed that the pots in which 
his Pines were growing were not plunged in the tan bed, but 
merely standing on the surface, and on calling the attention of 
the gardener to it he informed me that he did not plunge the 
pots, as he thought better fruit was produced when they were 
not plunged. Again, if Vines are required for planting out or 
fruiting in pots, it is better nct to plunge the pots during the 
growing season. Of course the eyes ought to be struck in 
bottom heat, but after the plants are repotted they should not 
be plunged again, but be placed in a position where heated air 
can have free access underneath and round the pots; and if 
the plants be afforded a high temperature and be freely supplied 
with water there will be no difficulty in growing canes of the 
strongest description, which will carry a large crop of fruit the 
first year from the bud; the class of roots formed will remain 
in better condition during winter, and be better prepared to 
start into active growth in the succeeding spring. 

My experience with the Chrysanthemum has been somewhat 
extensive and varied, for I have had to cultivate it both under 
adverse and prosperous circumstances. The system pursued 
here with plants which are grown fox the quality of the flowers 
is to place the pot upon two bricks so that a current of air may 
pass underneath it, and plants which are grown for specimens 
are likewise not plunged. The Chrysanthemums here are 
grown for exhibition, and, as a matter of course, much attention 


Happening to call recently. 


is bestowed upon them. They are not allowed at any time 
during the growing season to suffer from want of water. If 
the pots are plunged the roots sometimes find a way through 
the holes in the bottom, ramify into the surrounding material, 
and when the plants are removed into the show house or con- 
servatory in autumn the most useful portion of the roots is 
destroyed; the plants consequently experience a check frona 
which they do not recover until it is too late for the flowers to 
benefit, and the quality of these is much deteriorated. I had 
a decided proof of this last autumn. At the exhibition of the 
East London Chrysanthemum Society in three of the classes 
prizes were offered for Pompons, and in every one of the classes 
the first prize was awarded to plants which had been grown in 
pots that had never been plunged, and the superior quality of 
the flowers was at once apparent. The plants were not so large 
as some of the others of which the roots had not only been 
allowed to grow through the pots, but in some instances the 
lower branches had formed roots, the result of such treatment 
being immense plants out of all proportion either to the quan- 
tity or quality of the flowers uponthem. On the other hand, 
some exhibitors who have had much experience recommend 
plunging the pots during the growing season. If the plants 
are grown in this way there will be a considerable amount 
of labour saved in watering if a dry season should set in. 
Due precautions should also be taken to prevent the roots 
from growing through the pots to a large extent. In the 
case of amateurs who do not employ a regular gardener, and 
whose business occupations call them away from home during 
the day, plunging the pots would be absolutely necessary to 
enable the plants to withstand without water a sultry day in 
summer. 

There are very few gardens where this native of China and 
Japan is not cultivated, and any practical details concerning it 
must therefore be useful to a large circle of readers. We have 
not heard much about new introductions thisseason. Readers 
of the Journal must have missed the usual annual report of 
Messrs. Salters’ nursery at Hammersmith, which was of great 
value to those who could not make it convenient to go and 
jndge for themselves.—{ The nursery has been destroyed by one 
of the new metropolitan railways.—Eps. | 

There is still room for improvement in all the different classes 
of Chrysanthemums. Of the Pompon varieties there have 
been very few new sorts introduced of late years. In this class 
the form of the individual flowers has been brought to great 
perfection, but there is still room for improvement in the habit 
of the plants. Amongst the large-flowered Chinese and large- 
flowered Anemone varieties many new and improved forms 
have been introduced of late years, but it was evident that with 
the Messrs. Salter the Japanese varieties, with their singular 
and fantastic forms, were occupying the largest share of atten- 
tion. The improvement has been very rapid, and continuing, 
as the Japanese kinds do, to flower so late in the season, they 
are highly valuable for decorative purposes, however much they 
may be wanting in that which constitutes a florist’s flower. I 
noted last season, as one of the finest flowers of its race I had 
ever seen, a new Japanese variety named Jane Salter, one of 
Messrs. Salters’ flowers, and which received a first-class certi- 
ficate. I hope to see others take the cultivation of this flower 
in hand, as there is none more useful at the time it isin bloom, 
nor is there any better adapted for the neighbourhood of large 
towns, or to flourish under circumstances where plants of a less 
accommodating nature would barely live.-—J. Dovuauas, 


A LESSON ON STRAWBERRY FORCING. 


In my experience of the early forcing of Strawberries, I can 
find no better plan in order to insure a fair crop of ripe fruit 
in the first week of March, than to encourage the plants to 
make fresh roots previous to leaf growth. This may be done 
by plunging the pots in a shallow bed of fresh tree leayes—oak 
leaves are the best—of sufficient thickness to give just a gentle 
heat. Press the leaves very tightly round the pot to prevent 
the escape of heat. The bed should be made up either ina 
frame or pit, and where the plants can be brought to within a 
foot of the glass. Let them remain about a fortnight, or more 
if necessary, for the formation of new roots, but take care to 
give air the whole time. The amount of air should be re- 
gulated by the heat of the bed, and the state of the weather. 
Afterwards transfer them to either the Strawberry house or the 
shelves of an early vinery at work, where the plants can have 
plenty of light, and they will soon throw up strong and healthy 
sprigs of bloom, and when the flowers open they will be so well 


March 9, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


177 


supported by the newly-made roots that very few will fail to set 
their fruit. 

Compare the above method with that generally adopted— 
namely, putting the plants into the house at the time of start- 
ing without any of this preparation, and if I mistake not the 
plants will run to foliage with surprisingly long leaf-stalks, 
even though they may be close to the glass, and the blossom, 
instead of being thrown up well above the foliage, will be al- 
most hidden by it, and the first and finest flowers which should 
produce the finest fruit will turn black in the centre, and die, 
in my opinion through insufficient root action. I am more 
disposed to believe that such is the cause, from the plants 
setting their fruit almost to a flower after root action has fairly 
commenced; but the damage is done, as the later-produced 
fruit is always the smallest, many not being fit to place on the 
table. Professional gardeners have long ago learned the lesson, 
and while some of them have profited by it, many of them do 
mot attach that importance to it which its merits deserve. I 
algo wish it to be understood, that I do not think imperfect 
root action is the only cause of Strawberry flowers going blind, 
but it is a very common one, and should be guarded against by 
every. possible means.—Tuos. Recorp, Hatjfield. 


FRENCH HORTICULTURISTS’ RELIEF FUND. 


My dear friend Reynolds Hole has called me in his charming 
«‘ Book about Roses’ a French consul, as I have had a good 
deal to say from year to year as to the new Roses sent over 
from them to us. I now lay claim to being so in another and 
more important sense. For many years it has been my hap- 
piness to be much among the nurserymen in the neighbour- 
hood of Paris, and I have spent many pleasant and profitable 
hours with them. It was no wonder, then, when I heard of the 
siege of Paris being undertaken my thoughts should naturally 
recur to those whom I felt must be some of the earliest 
sufferers from the cruel devastation which has fallen on the 
neighbourhood of the fair city ; and when, from time to time, I 
heard of the destruction that had taken place—when, especially, 
the letter of M. André appeared in a contemporary, that I could 
vo longer sit an idle though not an unconcerned reader of those 
great sufferings, I consequently wrote and suggested that an 
appeal should be made in their behalf. Iam thankful to say 
that this has been most warmly taken up. The Council of the 
Royal Horticultural Society has seconded the movement, and 
everything, as will be seen by the advertisement in another 
¢olumn, has been put into a fair train, 

I have received letters from Paris, speaking in most grateful 
terms of this movement, and I now desire to make my appeal 
to all lovers of gardens to aid in this good work. I know you 
kaye all, my good and kind readers, done your part already. I 
know but little of the whole race of gardeners, professional and 
amateur, if they have not been already contributors to some 
of the many agencies at work for the relief of French distress ; 
I do not want to divert, God knows, one single rill of that 
mighty stream of charity which is ever flowing in our dear 
country, but I want to tap another spring, believing it will in 
ro way drain the others. Imagine what it would be for your 
own gardens to be torn and trampled by the troops of invading 
armies ; your greenhouses and frames pulled to pieces to make 
firewood of ; your well-trained trees cut up to make gabions; 
your dwelling-houses ransacked, and then tell me, Can you re- 
fuse to help those who have thus suffered? No, I am sure you 
eannot, and so I rely on your kind co-operation. Let none be 
deterred because they can only give a trifle, for every little 
makes a mickle, and the few postage stamps will be as accept- 
eble from those who can give a little only as the well-filled 
cheque from those who are wealthy. The cause is a good one; 
give for that reason. If you want another, remember that it 
will be only another proof of the sympathy of England, which 
will be thoroughly appreciated by our French friends; and 
may I say that if ever I have been enabled to give any informa- 
tion that has been either agreeable or profitable, I may ask 
in return that you will favour this movement? As I am ready 
to receive subscriptions I had better, perhaps, nct use my usual 
wom de plume of “D., Deal,’ but sign myself —H. Honywoop 
Domprain, Westwell Vicarage, Ashford, Kent. 


A meEtiInG was held on Tuesday last at the rooms of the 
Royal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, in furtherance 
of the object of raising a fund to relieve the French horticul- 
turists who have suffered from the ravages of the war. The 
mesting, considering the short time the matter has been before 


the public, was a full one, and the liveliest interest in the suc- 
cess of the undertaking was exhibited by those present. Mr. 
G. F. Wilson, F.R.S., wasin the chair; and there were present 
Mr. Charles Lee, Mr. H. Veitch, Mr. Catbusk, Mc. Bull, Mr. 
Laing, Mr. Williams, Mr. Turner, Mr. Standish, Mr. Robinson, 
Mr. Beale, Mr. Eyles, Mr. Richards, Dr. Masters, and Dr. Hogg. 
M. Wauthier, of Paris, was present, representing the Société 
Centrale d’Horticulture. 

The Rey. H. H. Dombrain, the Honorary Secretary, read 
several letters he had received from Paris relating the great 
suffering our fellow horticulturists had undergone, and the 
total destruction of property which many of them had sustained 
by the late war. He also stated that he had been in commu- 
nication with the Lord Mayor with the view of participating 
in the Mansion House fund, and that his application had met 
with a favourable reception; but the meeting were strongly of 
opinion that before any aid could be expected from that fund 
the horticulturists themselves should make a special effort to 
alleviate the sufferings of those in whose interest their sym- 
pathies had been excited. 

Several subscriptions, varying in amount from 1s. to fifty 
guiness, were announced as having been received, and these, 
together with those contributed by the meeting, amounted to 
no less than £261 14s. The following deputation was appointed 
to wait on the Lord Mayor at the Mansion House—Mr. Wilson 
Saunders, Mr. Marshall, Mr. G. F. Wilson, Dr. Hogg, Dr. 
Masters, and Mr. Harry Veitch. 

We have already stated how cordially we approve of this 
movement, and we trust that all our readers, however limited 
their means, will to the best of their ability unite in trying to 
alleviate the distress of those industrious and innocent sufferers, 
many of whom are known to us as personal friends. 

A large number of circulars has been printed for distribution, 
and the members of the nursery and seed trades in the pro- 
vinces are earnestly invited to lend their co-operation by cir- 
culating them in their several districts. Any quantities that 
may be required can be had on application to the Secretary, - 
Rey. H. H. Dombrain, Westwell Vicarage, Ashford, Kent. 


DOUBLE-FLOWERED PELARGONIUMS. 


Mr. C. M. McCrow, in page 63, asks for the results attendant 
on plunging the above in borders, and I have much pleasure 
in communicating my experience. During thelast two summers, 
I have tried the plants in borders with and without pots, and 
much prefer them in the latter. Last autumn I took up twenty 
plants from borders, placed them in pots just large enough to 
admit of the roots being crammed in, and set them in the 
same house as my autumn-struck plants, and although I lost 
upwards of a thousand good Pelargoniums through frost, only 
two of my old plants perished, and I could now take nearly one 
hundred good cuttings. I may add that the bloom of the plants 
not kept in pots was much finer than that of the others, and 
the plants did not require water in the summer, as they rooted 
very deeply.—J. Watts. 


PRESENTATION OF A TESTIMONIAL 


TO MR. ROBSON, GARDENER TO VISCOUNT HOLMESDALE, M.P. 


Tue Editors and the many readers of Tar JourNAL or Hor- 
TICULTURE will be gratified by knowing, that their old and 
much-esteemed friend, Mr. Robson, late President of the Maid- 
stone Gardeners’ Mutual Improvement Association, was pre- 
sented with a handsome and valuable testimonial by the mem- 
bers of the above Society and their friends, on Wednesday, 
March 1st, at the Rose and Crown Inn, Maidstone. 

Mr. Frost, the well-known nurseryman (the President for this 
year), took the chair. Mr. Davis, the founder, and father, as he 
is commonly called, of this prosperous Institution, occupied 
the vice-chair. The members in all, including honorary and 
ordinary, amount to over four hundred. A great number 
were present on this occasion, many of them from a long dis- 
tance. The Chairman in modest but appropriate terms spoke 
of Mr. Robson’s well-known high qualities both as a gardener 
and private gentleman, setting forth in no exaggerated measure 
the desirability of commemorating in some slight way the 
valuable services of Mr: Robson, not only to the Maidstone 
Gardeners’ Society, but to all gardening and gardeners. 

The testimonial was then handed to Mr. Robson by the 
Chairman. It consisted of an elegant gold watch with a suit- 
able inscription, a massive gold chain, a purse of sovereigrs, 
and a book beautifully embellished with the names of the sub- 


178 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 9, 1871. 


see EE eee 


scribers to the Robson Testimonial. Mr. Robson, who seemed 
much affected by the kindly feeling evinced towards him by ull 
present, returned warm thanks to all, dwelling on his own un- 
deservedness of such a mark of esteem as he had just received. 
—A GARDENER, ONE OF THE CoMMITTEE OF THE SocIETY. 


CULTIVATION OF THE JONQUIL—RAISING 
CONIFER FROM SEED. 


FasHion is a great power, ruling the gardener as well as the 
milliner. At the present time spring flowers are as much the 
rage as bedding plants were a short time ago, and it might, 
therefore, have been expected that the Jonquil would have re- 
sumed the place it occupied among our floricultural forefathers; 
yet it is but seldom seen now-a-days in English gardens or 
English forcing houses, and, judging from my own experience, 
I believe the reason to be that its proper mode of cultivation 
is very generally unknown. After many years of failure I have 
at last met with success, and it may interest some of your 
readers to learn how it is to be attained. 

The largest and best Jonquil bulbs, offered by seedsmen with 
other bulbs in September and October, cannot be made to flower 
decently in the following spring, either in-doors or out, by any 
method I have seen tried, and my gardener has tried every- 
thing he or I could think of. If planted in the open ground 
they will produce their leaves in the following spring, and a 
spindly flower here and there early in the summer, but if the 
bed has been deeply dug and well manured, and the Jonquils 
are left untouched for a couple of years to establish themselves 
in it, they will throw up their leaves in the autumn, and when 
they do this they will bloom profusely in the following month 
of April, and scent the whole garden. The leaves should be- 
some yellow in the month of June or July and die off; roots 
then transplanted will produce leaves and flowers in due 
season. The leayes show six months before the flowers, but 
they are perfectly hardy, and remain untouched by the winter’s 
frost. 

For forcing, the larger bulbs should be potted as soon as the 
leaves have faded, and the pots should be plunged in a cold 
frame till November, when the young leaves will be 6 or Sinches 
high. Brought into the forcing house in succession they can 
be bloomed throughout February and March. I have no doubt 
that a similar mode of treatment would answer admirably 
with Polyanthus Nercissus, and though I haye not yet tried the 
experiment, 1 mean to do so next season. 

I want the advice of some one of experience in the following 
matter. In the case of Cedars and other large-seeded Conifer 
the number of plants I raise, as compared with the number of 
seeds I sow, is exceedingly small. Of course there is always a 
certain proportion of bad seed that does not sprout at all, but 
where the seed does germinate it seems a mere toss-up whether 
the extension of the stem forces the rootlets or the cotyledons 
out of the ground, while even when the cotyledons come up 
properly they are often strangled by the hard seed shell, from 
which they are unable to disengage themselves. I usually sow 
on the surface of a prepared bed, and cover with a light 
sprinkling of leaf mould, but I have tried deeper sowing with- 
out any lessening of these freaks of Nature, while there was, 
of course, a smaller per-centage of germination. A word from 
the wise in this matter would be much esteemed by—A. B. C. 


ICE versts GLASS, AND OTHER THINGS. 


Mr. Pzarson advocates narrow glass. Iam sure heis wrong. 
This winter has been a trial, if there ever was one—fierce frost, 
fiercer snow, fiercest wind, and yet I have not lost a single 
pane of either the 25inches or 20 inches wide, but several of 
the 9inches. The reason is evident; the wide panes spring, 
and the freezing at the laps doesnoharm. Then, the snow 
slides off the wide glass, whilst the rafters keep hold in the 
ease of narrow panes. 

Then about leaving potted trees out of doors in winter, I do 
not think it is a matter of any consequence, provided the soil 
in the pots has been kept dry during the autumn, and is also 
safe from frost. Ihave at present two long walls of piled 
seedling Peaches, and they seem to be perfectly safe; but two 
or three strong old trees left out through neglect have been 
cut to pieces, ripe brown two-year-old wood looking as ifit had 
been boiled. 

Then some one advises a correspondent to empty his hot- 
water pipes frequently in order to avoid ‘“‘furring.” Now, if 
there is lime in the water, the heat driyes off the carbonic acid 


| that held the carbonate of lime in solution, and down goes the 
lime, leaving the water so much purer; therefore, in such case, 
as little fresh water as possible should be put into the pipes. 
But why not say at once, Use rain water invariably for filling 
the pipes? 

I see we are likely to have a good deal of aphis this year, for 
in spite of thorough washing as soon as the leaves fell, and 
again before starting, I have had beginnings on almost every 
tree; but, of course, I do not allow a day to pass without snufiing 
out any such visitors as may appear; last year I hardly ever 
saw one, certainly none till they came in from the outside — 
W. Kixestex, South Kilvington. 


Tuanxs to ‘‘R.F.” (page 49), and to Mr. Pearson (page 63), 
for their excellent remarks on the subject of an eyil at ail 
times annoying to the gardener, and especially in winter- 
The breakage of glass is never agreeable, attended as it is with 
& considerable amount of drip, to say nothing of the trouble, 
annoyance, and cost of repairs. 

Of the causes of glass cracking from frost, I consider ‘‘2 
wide lap” the chief, and I think sole one. Size of pane has 
no influence whatever on the liability to breakage by frost, the 
breakage being entirely dependant on the capacity of the lap 
for holding water, which in severe weather is converted into 
ice. The greater the lap the more water will lodge between 
the panes where the one overlaps the other, and the greater 
will be the quantity of ice, and consequent liability to breakage. 
This has never been better exemplified than in the present year. 
We have two. Peach houses glazed with 26-oz. sheet glass, in 
panes 40 inches by 172 inches, and the lap is one-eighth to three- 
sixteenths of an inch, in no case exceeding a quarter of an inch, 
and not one pane has cracked; but in some pits with the 
panes 15 inches by 11 inches there are several panes cracked 
from frost, because the laps are more than double the breadth 
of those in the Peach houses. Again, in a greenhouse, with 
panes measuring irom 24 to 30inches by 12 inches, there is 
none cracked by frost, for the lap is as nearly as possible a 
quarter of an inch; but in some vineries with panes which 
may be 12 inches by 9 inches, the breakage is very great, for 
the laps are not less than half an inch, and some three-quarters- 
of an inch. - 

Thick glass, as Mr. Pearson says, is no safeguard, for it will 
breek just as quickly as thin, if the lap is so great that water 
lodges in any considerable quantity. I have known quarter- 
of-an-inch rough plate broken by frost quite as extensively as 
15-o0z. sheet glass. ; y 

Of glass annealing I known next to nothing. It is, no 
doubt, a very important part of glass manufacture. Some 
glass I know is very inferior; but is not inferior glass, pre- 
suming it is properly annealed, more suitable for horticultural 
purposes than the best? For instance: Is not 3rds quality, 
21-oz. British sheet at 43d., superior to the best quality at 10d. 
per superficial foot? The liability of the best quality of glass 
to scorch the foliage beneath it is said to be so great, and the 
expense so much more, that it is rarely tried, and where it has 
been tried it is considered disadvantageous. This bemg the 
case, is it not folly to glaze with more than 3rds quality glass > 
If the 3rds or 4ths qualities are so badly annealed as to be very 
liable to crack, or must all crack, as Mr. Pearson says, would 


it not be better, instead of using a better quality of sheet. 
to use rough plate three-eighths or even half an inch thick, 
which for squares containing 9 feet will not cost more per foot 
than the best quality 26-oz. sheet? Cheap glass is, in my 
opinion, a great evil, and especially thin glass, which I consider 
occasions a great loss of heat. The object of all glass is the 
retention of heat accompanied with the transmission of light 
to the plants, fruit trees, &c., enclosed; and the cooling of the 
enclosed atmosphere is dependant in a greater measure than 
many of us suppose on the thickness of the glass. Rough 
plate three-eighths to half an inch think, I find, makes a very 
considerable difference in the temperature as compared to & 
house glazed with 21-oz. sheet—fully 5° in favour of the rough 
plate, to say nothing of the more equable temperature. Thick 
glass does not reflect nor refract more of the sun’s light and 
heat than thin, but only causes its diffusion, and on that 
account prevents scorching, which is dependant more on the 
what we call the clearness, but in reality smoothness of the 
surfaces of the glass, than on its mere thickness or thinness. 
Polished plate a quarter of an inch thick will scorch quite as 
much as the best quality of sheet glass. We haye in use 
polished plate a quarter of an inch thick, rough plate (ground 
on one side) three-eighths and half an inch thick, rough plate 


March 9, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


three-eighths and half an inch thick, and sheet, 26-0z., 21-o0z., 
and 15-o0z., with crown glass, and all the breakage from frost is in 
the last three descriptions, none of the other four being in any 
way acted upon injuriously by frost. It is only right to say, 
that of the 21-oz. not one pane per cent. is cracked, but of the 
15-oz. most, and they are the smallest panes with the greatest 
laps, consequently I attribute all the breakage to the laps. 

A lap of any sort I consider a great evil. Laps are causes of 
drip, let out a great amount of heat, and in time there is 
formed an ugly dirty band at the lap, or where the panes meet, 
and this is anything but neat, and is a great propagator of 
moss on the glass, which obstructs not only the sun’s light, 
but heat, to a greater extent than many imagine. Mr. Pearson 
condemns ‘jumped ’ joints—i.c., the edges placed together ; 
but, then, as he says, ‘‘in stormy weather a roof so glazed 
admits water at every joint.” This statement I can confirm; 
for the ends of a greenhouse, to say nothing of the roof, in 
which the glass is so arranged, admit a remarkable quantity of 
water in wet windy weather. Notwithstanding, I believe it is 
the true principle of glazing, and though I would not advocate 
wider panes than 15 inches for 21-oz. sheet, I would in all cases 
of glazing with more than 26-oz. sheet, or with plate glass rough, 
or ground and polished, have no sash-bars but simply rafters, 
‘2 feet 3 inches to 2 feet 6 inches apart, for 32-oz. sheet and 
quarter-inch plate, whilst for three-eighths and half-inch plate 
I would have the rafters with 3-feet intervals. We have some 
polished plate in panes 4 to 5 feet, by 3 to 4 feet, and they are 
in appearance very much superior to those of which four would 
be required to make one of the other. The glass I would have 
half as long again as wide, and divide the lengths so as to have 
the panes equal in size. Where the panes met directly I would 
have a chamfered cross-sash but without the rebates, having 
it quite flat on the upper surface, and so let into the rafters 
that its upper surface would be level with the bottom of the 
rebate in the rafters, which need not be moxe than half an inch or 
five-eighths of an inch wide, and a quarter of an inch deeper than 
the thickness of the glass. The cross-sash need not be more 
than an inch wide—three-quarters of an inch would be sufficient 
—and should be so placed that the panes would meet exactly 
in its centre. Bed the glass in white lead, also the small cross- 
bar, and the lead will be forced through and fill-up any opening 
where the panes meet; and outside, over each joint, we have 
only to place a strip of lead-leaf no thicker than lead paper so 
as to cover the joint, and this being white-leaded on its side 
next the glass, and where it covers the joint, will endure, no- 
body knows how long. Outside we have continuous-‘ looking” 
glass, inside neat, French casement-like panes, no cold air 
blowing in, nor heated air passing out, and there is no lap for 
the water to pass under, consequently no ice, no frost-cracked 
squares. This mode of glazing would answer for smaller as 
well as larger panes, only if the glass be 21-oz. or 15-oz., it 
ought not to be wider than 15 inches for 21-oz., and 12 inches 
for ee and the cross sash-bar may be smaller, or dispensed 
with. 

Mr. Pearson’s preventive—namely, having the glass eut with 
a slight curve, I have no faith in. I remember its being lauded 
& quarter of a century back, and have seen more than one 
structure glazed in that way. It was thought it would prevent 
drip by taking the water to the centre of the panes, and so 
‘keep it from being blown inwards and running down the rafters 
in stormy weather. This mode was principally used for cur- 
vilinear roofs, but fell into disuse from the waste in cutting, 
the difficulty in repairing, and, as I remember, from the fre- 
quency of broken glass. Unless the lap is small there is not 
much difference between glass cut with a slight curve and that 
tut straight; both hold water enough to form sufiicient ice to 
‘break glass in frosty weather. The capillary attraction of the 
Jap is fully as great in panes cut curved as those cut straight, 
as regards the water under the lap, but that coming on the out- 
‘Side is conveyed by the upper cut-edge to the centre of the 
pane, and may run off, but if the lap is not full by capillary 
attraction, the water passes under the lap, and there remains 
until it is displaced by wind, or augmented by more till the weight 
is greater than capillary attraction will retain.—G. Appry. 


CALCEOLARIA CULTURE FOR BEDDING-OUT. 


I wave been a successful cultivator of Calceolarias, for I 
searcely ever lose a plant during the summer. I differ very 
much from Mr. Clark, who says, at page 137, ‘‘I insert them 
in large 60-pots, six in a pot, using equal parts of leaf mould, 
drift sand, and chopped moss, with plenty of drainage.’ This 


179 


amount of trouble and time I should not like to expend. I 
use a plain wooden pit facing the south, 3 feet in depth at the 
back, and 2 in front; I fillit with decayed dung, placing over 
it 6 inches of loam beaten firmly. I insert the cuttings during 
the last week of September and the first week of October, 
keeping the boards shut down, and sprinkling every night and 
morning in fine weather. Should it be showery I tilt the lights 
and let the cuttings have therain. It must be understood that 
the boards are on hinges, which makes it a very useful pit for 
bedding stuff, especially in the spring. 

In this pit I keep my Calceolarias till the middle of March, 
pinching them once; then I remove them to the openest plot 
in the kitchen garden; there I open a trench 4 feet wide, 
placing the soil on each side as a bank for protection, at the 
same time wheeling in 4 inches of decayed dung, and forking it 
up with the soilat the bottom. In this I plant the Calceolarias, 
leaving them there till the second week of May, when I remove 
them to the flower garden, taking up each plant just ready 
to flower with a fine ball of earth; the check they receive in 
yemoving them throws them into flower. The only evil of 
which I have to complain is that they cease flowering so early 
in the autumn; and, like Mr. Robson, I should be glad if any- 
one would recommend some method by which constant flower- 
ing could be insured. I shall this season try cutting off the 
first blooms, for the plants.come into flower long before the 
Geraniums. I should like to know if anyono has tried this 
method, for it would be a great boon if we could find one which 
would prolong the Calceolaria’s flowering, for without it large 
flower gardens would not look much, as we have no substitute 
equalling it. 

The varieties I use are Kayii, an old and well-known kind, 
and Aurea floribunda. The former is that which I would re- 
commend to everyone who has experienced any difficulty in the 
cultivation of the Calceolaria; it is of strong, robust growth, 
and is an excellent companion to Stella Geranium. Itis the 
variety I prefer for extensive flower gardens. 

The reason I object to use glass lights over my Calceolaria - 
cuttings is they become drawn up, and will not withstand the 
rough treatment they are exposed to in planting out in the 
kitchen garden. If grown properly they need no protection 
after the middle of March; a few deal boards placed across the 
pit will save them from the cutting wind.. I have no doubt 
that the failures of which so many complain arise from what 
is called coddling, for however much air is given, the plants are 
always weakly under glass. 

I visited a gardener friend last March, and in looking through- 
the frames he pointed out to me the fine Calceolarias he had ; 
they were so at the time, but they were very weak. He trans- 
ferred them to a pit in the kitchen garden the same as mine, 
and there they received a severe check, but he brought them 
through it, and planted them out in the middle of May as fine 
plants with good balls, but in July he had not one-half of them 
alive, and his ribbon borders were consequently disfigured. 
For this reason: I condemn glass lights for the growth of the 
Calceolaria, and anyone trying a boarded pit will find himself 
on the right side.—E. Hames. 


SOME PREDATORY INSECTS OF OUR 
GARDENS.—No. 4. 


CERTAIN persons when they found that the worthy gentle- 
man Mr. Micawber purposed going into the Medway coal trade, 
concluded at once that it would be decidedly necessary he 
should visit that agreeable river. Possibly they were right ; 
but I am sure I was justified in coming to the conclusion that 
when I purposed writing something about the wireworm (about 
as definite a phrase as if one were to say, ‘‘ the caterpillar”), I 
had better make personal acquaintance with one. True, I had 
remembrances of interviews with certain ‘‘ grubs,” in years 
gone back, reputed to ke ‘‘ wireworms,’’ yet I could not have 
drawn a portrait of one of these from memory either with 
pencil or pen, nor did any notable fact remain in connection 
with the same, saving and excepting that one was shown to me 
by a gardener, whose naturally long visage gained so much 
extra length from the disgust with which he viewed this special 
enemy, that had I possessed a portable photographic apparatus 
I should have entreated him to remain motionless, that I 
might secure a ‘‘ phiz” that was remarkable if not admirable. 
Books are all very well, but they have their errors. What was 
to be done? ‘The weather precluded country excursions; 
could a ‘‘ wiveworm”’ be obtained close at hand? I recollected 


180 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


that in my suburban garden plot, brick-surrounded and smoky 
as it is, I had seen during the previous summer indubitable 
‘*skip-jack ” beetles, of small dimensions, and it followed as a 
natural inference, that it would be by no means unlikely that 
lary were feeding not very far off from where imagos had been 
seen. Out with the spade, drive it into the peculiar com- 
position which in town gardens we call mould! Alas! recent 
frosts have rendered the ground rather unmanageable, and after 
some efforts I fell back for consolation on the ‘fox and 
Grapes” fable—there are no wireworms here, or, if there are, 
they won’t be worth the trouble I am bestowing upon them. 
Deserting the garden for the library, I see no reason, never- 
theless, for dropping my design altogether; something may 
be said historically upon the wireworm now, as this is the 
season of the year when in gardening operations it is occasion- 
ally unearthed, and as very shortly, with the returning warmth 
of spring, its ravages will be more considerable. Ata future 
date some additional facts may be appended regarding this 
rather memorable insect. 

The wireworm or wireworms, for they should certainly 
be spoken of in the plural, though, perhaps, greater ene- 
mies to the agriculturist than to the horticulturist, exert very 
injurious influences in kitchen gardens during some seasons. 
More particularly are they likely to show themselves in 
ground which has been recently converted from pasture to 
garden ground. And it is very necessary to bear in mind that 
other creatures besides the Hlater larve have been, and still 
are, designated by thisname. Millipedes and centipedes have 
been called wireworms, and also the larve of some of the 
Tipule. This is coming rather near the mark, but still in- 
correct. Wireworms are the larve of certain beetles belonging 
to the family Elaterids, a section of the Coleopterous order, in- 
cluding some remarkable insects. In America there are phos- 
phorescent species, mostly belonging to the genus Pyrophorus. 
One very common in Mexico and Brazil (P. noctilucus) is called 
the Cucujd. These are used as adornments for the hair, and 
shed suflicient light to enable one to read. Like the glow- 
worms, they can modify the light at will, by interposing a 
membranous film. This luminosity appears to come from 
what @ writer calls its “‘ phosphorescent bumps,” though the 
abdomen emits a light also. But this circumstance is chiefly 
interesting when taken in connection with the fact that one of 
our British Hlaters, if not more, has a similar power. Mrs. 
Cox has referred to this species as the wireworm, and alludes 
to the injuries it produces in hotbeds and greenhouses, where 
it does mischief, especially to Melons and Cucumbers. No 
doubt this is true ina measure, yet an investigation of the 
works of various authors who have published their obser- 
vations on the different species of Elater, leaves us in some 
difficulty as to which should be most deeply stigmatised 
amongst them as injurious to garden or field produce. Modern 
entomological science, as we know, tends to the multiplication 
of genera, and the old genus Elater has been split up con- 
siderably. They are, in the perfect 
state, noticed by even the generally 
unobservant, and popularly known as 
‘*skip-jack,” or ‘‘ click” beetles. Some 
have received distinctive English names 
—merely the echoes, though, of their 
Latin appellations, such as the acumi- 
nated click beetle, the long-necked, the 
tawny-legged, the satin-coated, the mar- 
ginated, the red-tailed, and so on. This 
matters not much, however, to the gar- 
dener, who heeds not very much mi- 
nute distinctions ; so long as the general 
habit of the species enumerated be the 
Same, or neazly so, he will be content 
to say, modifying Byron’s quotation, ‘‘ Arcades ambo’’—that is, 
translating freely, ‘‘ blackguards are ye all.” 

Really destructive as are the wireworms while in that stage, 
the beetles they produce are highly curious, their saltatorial 
propensity enabling them to execute manceuvres which are 
puzzling, yet easily understood when explained. Kirby, com- 
menting on Cuvier, points out that his observation regarding 
vertical leaps, which he said could only be taken by birds and 
by maz, is incorrect, since the Elaters very frequently (though 
not always) spring in this manner. Hold one of these fellows 
tight so that he cannot moye, and he still produces his peculiar 
rap, and you are surprised at the wonderful amount of strength 
Contained in so small an organisation. Were it not for this 
natural provision, individuals of this tribe when they fell upon 


Wireworms. 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. { March 9, 187}. 


their backs would have exceeding difficulty in regaining their 
legs, and a continuance in such a posture beyond a certain 
time is death to beetles, as to many other insects. A beak at 
the extremity of the prosternum is the main agent in the moye- 
ment. The head and abdominal extremity touch whatever 
surface the beetle may be resting upon; then, as it unbends, 
this point strikes into the hollow of the ring next to it, and as 
the back comes down to the level, the jerk mounts it into the 
air to a distance of 6 or 8 inches or more. 

The larvez or grubs of the different species under consider- 
ation are assuredly wiry enough to merit the common name, 
or, at least, the first half of it; the second is less appropriate, 
since they have six very distinct legs. A figure which is given 
in Figuier’s ‘‘Insect World,” representing one, is probably 
much too dark, the colour being, I believe, greyish white 
usually, or a yellowish brown in some instances noticed. The 
wireworm has been compared to the meal worm, being slender, 
flat, and shining; the legs are short, adapted to the burrowing 
life it leads, and at the extremity is a tubercle, which serves as 
a fulerum is case of need. Many years ago, Kirpy, in his in~ 
vestigations into the economy of predatory insects, ascertained 
that in Norfolk and Suffolk Elater obscurus (of Marsham) 
committed extensive ravages. More recent observers in Scotlana 
describe this as being still a very injurious species there. 
‘* Indeed,” says McIntosh, ‘‘the presence of wireworms in 
soils cropped with autumn-planted Potatoes is more to be 
dreaded than the frost.” The species named by Linnzus 
E. lineatus has been repeatedly commented upon as one of the 
farmer’s pests, though its ravages have been remarked as ex— 
tending also to gardens. In addition to the tubers of the 
Potato, Carrots, Turnips, Cabbages, and Beans, have in turn 
suffered from the subterranean work of the larve of some 
Elater. That choice and troublesome plant, the Asparagus. 
has its buds perforated under ground, while the offender not 
unfrequently escapes scot free, for owing to the mole-like life 
led by the wireworms, the work of their jaws is ascribed at 
times to worms, slugs, &c. It has been stated, too, that like 
the cockchafer, some at least of the species exist for several 
years in the larval stage, resting, at least partially, during the 
winter season. Not at all improbable is it, however, that 
under certain circumstances they feed on through the winter, 
as is known to be the case with many subterranean larvz. 

Deep digging has been recommended as tending to reduce 
the numbers of the wireworm, but it is only a very partial 
remedy, and of limited application. Trap-setting done at the 
proper season is of much advantage. The best plan seems to 
be that of placing slices of Potato on the points of sticks, and 
burying these beneath the ground to the depth of some inches. 
Every day or two they should be pulled up, and the ‘‘ catch” 
disposed of by burning. Traps on the surface of the earth. 
have also been tried with some success—not only pieces of 
Potato, but also slices of Turnip, and the stalks of Lettuces. A 
writer on gardening states, that by persevering in these modes 
he captured many thousands in a fortnight’s time in a Car- 
nation border, which was infested. Spirit of tar and the refuse 
lime of gasworks have been also used as destructive agents 
where they could be applied. But the oddest remedy, perhaps, 
is that which checks the ravages of the wireworm by cram- 
ming it to death with luxurious food. Rape cake broken into 
small pieces is drilled into the ground—say a few weeks before 
Carrots are sown, where that vegetableis in danger. This is 
most effective, so it is said, in dry seasons, and the larva 
devours this food until it dies of repletion. Perhaps so, yet L 
am half inclined to suppose that its death is hardly to be. 
accounted for on the repletion theory, since over-gorging does 
not appear to prevail in the insect world. It may be that the. 
oily bait is unwholesome to its constitution, though pleasant te. 
its palate.—J. R. 8. C. 


ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 


Tue Anniversary Meeting of this Society was held in the rooms of. 
the Linnean Society, at Burlington House, on the 23rd of January, 
when Mr. A. R. Wallace was re-elected President, and the routine 
business transacted. A satisfactory report of the Society's accounts 
was read, and the President delivered an annual address, reviewing 
the entomological proceedings and publications of the past year, and. 
discussing at great length a paper on the geographical distribution of 
Coleopterous insects lately published by Mr. A. Murray, in the course 
of which the President dissented from most of Mr. Murray’s views. 
A yote of thanks to the President for his address was passed, and the 
address has since been published and distributed among the members. 

The February Meeting of the Society took place on the Gth of 


March 9, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


181 


that month, Mr. A. R. Wallace in the chair. After the appointment 
of Vice-Presidents, election of new members, &c., Mr. F. Bond ex- 
hibited some rare Moths from Scotland, including Pachnobia alpina, 
Westw., Gelechia boreella, Larentia cesiaria, and some very dark 
specimens of Thera juniperata ; also a portion of the web, 2 or 3 yards 
long, spun by the gregarious larve of one of the small Ermine Moths, 
Hyponomeuta Padella, likewise @ specimen of Vanessa Atalanta in the 
winged state, which still retained the head of the caterpillar enclosing 
the head of the butterfly ; also four singular specimens of the common 
Brimstone Butterfly, Gonepterys Rhamni, in which the wings exhibited 
a greater or less mixture of the dark and light colours peculiar to the 
two sexes, as well as a series of photographs containing highly magnified 
representations of the eggs of various bird parasites, some closely re- 
sembling sea anemones, from slides prepared by Mr. Norman. The 
Rey. H. S. Gorham exhibited Oxytelus fulvipes, Mrichson, 2 Beetle 
new to Britain, from Staffordshire. 

Professor Westwood exhibited specimens of a minute water Bug 


(Cocixa ovivora, Westw.), which is very destructive to the ova of | 


freshwater fishes in India, proving a great enemy to experiments in 
pisciculture in the east ; also drawings of a singular species of Scale 
Insect (Coccus stellifer, /Vestw.), injurious to the leayes of Cypri- 
pedium niveum, from Siam. The male scales are extended into eight 
radiating plates tipped with white, and with a white rib down the centre 
of each. ‘Che Professor had fortunately extracted a winged male from 
beneath one of the scales. 

Mr. A. Miiller exhibited some curious galls on species of Oak from 
Tangiers, collected by Mr. Blackmore; and Mr. Butler read descrip- 
tions of a new genus and seven new exotic species of Butterflies be- 
longing to the Pierides. 


DINNER-TABLE DECORATION.—No. 2. 

I now come to another feature in dinner-table decoration, 
and that is the use of materials different from those which the 
gardener usually employs; one of these is the use of large 
sheets of mirror glass laid flat on the table, the various kinds 
of ornament or requirements of the table being placed upon 
this glass. Here we have sheets about 5 feet long and a little 
less than 2 feet wide; these we find quite wide enough. There 
are other sheets which are shorter, in order to fit the length of 
table wanted, and as many of these as are necessary are laid 
along the centre of the table upon the naked cloth. I ought, 
however, to observe that the sheets of glass are fitted to slight 
frames sufficient to move them with, and rest upon a very thin 
boarded back perfectly flat, so that no weight likely to be put 
upon them will break the glass. The frame is about an inch 
thick at the edges, and not more than half that in width. On 
the side next the glass this edging in our case is simply painted 
green, a8 we invariably surround it with a bordering either of 
Lycopod or some made-up wreath of flowers or evergreens, 
generally, however, with the trough; and it has been thought 
good taste to stick in sprigs of a graceful small-leaved plant, 
say Panicum javanicum variegatum, sprays of Pampas Grass, 
or something of the kind, but nothing higher than 4 or 5 inches. 
These being reflected by the mirrors look well. At Christmas 
a wreath of Holly all round has also a good effect. The stands 
of flowers, the candlesticks, and other things proper for the 
centre of the table may all be placed in their usual position; 
but care should be taken to hide the joints of the frames where 
the portions of glass meet; a stand or something similar will 
help to do this. No further bordering on the table is needed ; 
the frame, either of evergreens or flowers, to the looking- glass is 
generally quite sufficient. Besides the stands in their usual 
places, some small baskets of flowers of a neat and effective 
kind, that will be mentioned hereafter, may also have a place 
if there be room. It is, however, not advisable to crowd the 
looking-glass, but to leave plenty of space for the flowers to be 

" reflected from ; a little experience will teach when enough has 
been placed on the glass. It ought not to beso thickly studded 
with objects as the cloth might be, otherwise the purpose for 
which it is used—namely, to reflect the objects upon it, is to a 
great extent defeated. When many superficial feet of mirror 
are used in this way, the number or efficiency of the lights 
ought to be increased, for, to borrow a humble phrase, it is 
astonishing how the glass seems to swallow up the light, cer- 
tainly more so than # green cloth or a mass of foliage. 

The seeming necessity for using flower-stands alternately 
‘with the candlesticks having been frequently alluded to by me 
in previous articles, I may add that the kinds we have here 
are partly of the March design and another of about equal 
height. These we dress in the usual way, filling the bottom 
dish mostly with short-stemmed flowers fully expanded, while 
those for the top are of a more feathery description, and some 
pendent ones hang over the edges of the top dish, for which 
purpose nothing exceeds Fuchsias or the berries of Rivina 


humilis. The most effective flower for the bottom is the beau- 
tiful star-shaped Eucharis amazonica. I am not sure if this 
does not exceed Water Lilies ; certainly it does so in one very 
important feature, for the flower does not shut up at night 
when its beauties are most wanted. It can be had in mid- 
winter, and when cut keeps longer, I believe, than any other 
flower I know. The Eucharis has been with us the most valu- 
able plant grown for the purpose, and a few blooms will go a 
long way, a8 it is not advisable to crowd them. Of course a 
certain amount of green in some form is necessary, including 
the invaluable Maidenhair Fern, which ought to be kept in 
reservo till the last, as it withers so soon. Covering the edges 
of the stand is best accomplished by foliage that will hang over 
ina natural manner. Well-selected leaves of Tricolor Gera- 
niums do very well, while for a change we have sometimes the 
Palm-looking leaves of Helleborus foetidus, and sometimes the 
much larger yet equally elegant foliage of the common Berberis 
Aquifolium, especially when a sufficient number of rich crim- 
son ones can be procured. In hue these leaves far exceed 
those of any Dracena I am acquainted with, and being bright 
and glossy they look well at night. In summer an abundance 
of materials can be had, but oftenin winter everything that can 
be turned to account is brought into requisition, and a very 
common plant will in many cases look as well as the occupants 
of exotic houses. We have for several winters used along with 
other things the berries of some large plants of Cotoneaster 
Simmondsii, which ere growing against the walls of houses 
facing the north. These bright shining berries, of a clear 
orange colour, look well when numbers of them are clustered 
on the spurs of the tree, as they are when it is grown against a 
wall and properly pruned, but they are of little use when it is 
grown as an open bush, and the birds do not seem to attack 
them so readily as the fruit of the Pyracantha and other Cratex- 
guses. A set of troughs dressed with the short trusses of Lau- 
rustinus blooms and a few of these tufts of berries put in 
amongst them, look very showy, the edges of the troughs being 
hidden by overhanging Ivy leaves. Holly berries are more 
difficult to manage, but they, too, are used, and on one parti- 
cular evening Mistletoe may be worked in; still I am no advo- 
cate for indiscriminate mixtures, nor, in fact, for mixtures at 
all, except it be of only two kinds. Perhaps in the tops of the 
flower-stands this rule may be disregarded, but employing too 
many different materials there is also objectionable. 

Little things often materially augment the general effect, 
and we have frequently thrown in some green when none was 
near, by putting a star or other device underneath the candle- 
sticks, generally using selected Portugal Laurel leaves that are 
flat. A portion of their base being cut off, they are sewn upon 
a piece of white paper or card with their points outwards, care 
being taken to keep the whole as flat as possible. These stars 
are useful in many ways. Sometimes when plants are sub- 
stituted for the flower-stands, and the pots either covered with 
ornamental paper or placed in silver vessels, the stars are placed 
beneath these. 

Apart from the ordinary upright flower-stands which have 
been described, we have a number of small glass baskets, each 
about the size of a tea-saucer but deeper, and having a twisted 
handle. The bow! of the basket rests on globular knobs, 
and beneath it is placed a prepared circular mirror-stand 16 or 
17 inches in diameter, separate from the basket, and having 
a bordering of crimson chenille. These little baskets when 
filled, not crowded, with flowers, can be placed anywhere, and 
in my opinion look better than the taller ones, and are as 
useful for the drawing-room table as for the dinner-table. On 
the latter they can be introduced to fill up any spare place that 
may be desirable. They are made of ordinary white glass, all 
plain excepting the handle, and its presence amongst the 
flowers, &c., is pleasing.—J. Roxson. 


VERBENA CUTTINGS FAILING. 


For two years my Verbenas have been suffering from the 
same cause as ‘‘ R. I.” mentions, and particularly Purple King. 
The cuttings when inserted in the autumn were not quite so 
good as I should have liked, still they struck readily enough, 
but after the first pinching that I gave them they began to 
look worse, and gradually died down from the point to the 
root, till I am now almost out of stock to propagate from. Last 
year it was Géant des Batailles that suffered most. 

On seeing Verbena cuttings were gradually going off I have 
often thought over the subject, and I have come to the con- 
clusion that the chief cause is that the stock is worn out. The 


182 


place where I am is far from any other garden, and I have to 
depend altogether on my own stock. I believe the stock of 
Parple King has not been changed for many years, and the 
same remark applies to Géant des Batailles. Last year I 
begged a few cuttings of the latter, and the plants from these 
grew much better all summer than any of the others, furnish- 
ing good cuttings in the autumn, and not one of them has 
gone off throughout the winter, all being treated alike. The 
other kinds which I grow have all been from fresh stock pro- 
cured within a few years, and I cannot complain much of them, 
but even with them I find those which have been here the 
longest are the most difficult to obtain good cuttings from, and 
to keep all winter. I 
intend to obtain a 
few fresh plants of 
Purple King and 
watch them, and, if 
you think proper, I 
willreport the result 
next year. 

I think that it is 
desirable to change 
the stock sometimes, 
particularly when 
the same few beds 
have to be planted 
year after year, with 
just the addition of a 
little light manure 
perhaps. Ihope some 
of your readers will 
observe the results of 
changing their stock, 
and report their ex- 
perience.—S. N. 


[We advised a 
change of cuttings 
years ago, and it 
would be more prac- 
tised if gardeners 
could do so without 
endless explanations 
to employers.--Eps. ] 


CYPRIPEDIUM 
DOMINIANUM. 


Tuts beautiful va- 
riety is deservedly 
named after Mr. 
Dominy, so well 
known as the suc- 
cessful cross-breeder 
of Orchids at Messrs. 
Veitch’s. Mr. Do- 
miny obtained it by 
crossing C. Pearcei 
and C. caudatum. 

The chief points 
in his own descrip- 
tion of this offspring 
are as follows :— 
Peduncle many-flow- 
ered; — spathe-like 
bracts half thelength 
of the ovary; ovary 
rather pilose ; sepals ‘ N 
oblong triangular ; hs 
petals caudate, cili- 
ated; lip saccate, near the mouth retuse. It is remarkable 
that it is in almost every feature an intermediate of its two 
parents. Its flowers have the yellowish-green tint and purple 
veins and blotches of caudatum, and like them open all to- 
gether. Messrs. Veitch find that it is a very free-growing 
variety. 


Hien Manca Temrrratures.—S§o early in March the follow- 
ing high temperatures registered here may prove of interest. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


Cypripedium Dominianum, 


{ March 9, 1871. 


The thermometers have been verified at the Greenwich Obser- 


Day. Max. in shade Max. in san 
March. at 4 feet. at 4 feet.} 
2nd 58.4° 106.8° 
8rd. 65.4° 112 0° 
4th 65.0° 112.3° 
5th 57.2° 113.5° 


—Franois Nunes, Chislehurst, Kent. 


WATER SUPPLY. 


I Finn that we have not here done half enough to insure the requisite 
supply of moisture in summer. 


There have been many showers, and 
many drizzling days, 
but here (near Luton) 
we have not kad enough 
of moisture to pene- 
trate far into the sub- 
soil. Without a much 
greater rainfall I fear 
that next summer we 
must not depend on 
the moisture beneath. 
There are few places 
where thousands of 
gallons of water have 
not run to waste. With 
a continuance of such 
summers as we have 
lately experienced, a 
large reservoir of water 
will bs indispensable 
both for the farm and 
garden, and the first 
expense of forming one 
will be true economy 
in the end. From a 
single broad piece of 
gravel I found that the 
water ran off it intoa 
drain during a heavy 
rain at the rate of a 
gallon per minute. 
How valuable that 
water wonld have been 
in July! From all I 
can learn, the water in 
deep wells is getting 
very low, and is likely 
to be lower still. 

Those who have a 
water supply at com- 
mand know nothing of 
the ceaseless anxiety 
many of us endured 
last summer, when the 
great consideration was 
with how little water 
we could manage to 
Keep plants alive. Even 
for damping paths, &c., 
in houses I was glad to 
use dirty water, know- 
ing that there would 
be no sediment in the 
vapour given off, Con- 
trast such a state of 
affairs with that of the 
gardener who, by turn- 
ing a tap and hose, can 
water any part of his 
ground. Nodoubt there 
has been much inju- 
tf dicious and oyer-water- 

a ing, but that is a very 

different affair from 
not being able to water 
at all. Without mulch- 
ing and shading last summer many gardeners would have been qnite 
unable to furnish a regular kitchen supply, and I only hope that in the 
ensuing season we shall have more moisture in the ground to fall 
back upon, if not larger reservoirs. 

If I were entering on a large fresh place, where many pot plants, 
&c., were expected to be grown, I would, as a matter of first import- 
ance, make careful inquiries as to the water supply, and this is of still 
greater interest to a young gardener entering on his first place. I 
fear that it is something incidental to humanity to make some allow- 


WCERITE 


} Black bulb vacuum thermometer. 


March 9, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


185 


ance for shortcomings when there is a seen cause of failure, but to 
forget all about the consequences when these causes cease to be so 
conspicuously perceptible. I know that in many cases when the re- 
‘freshing showers of last autumn came it was expected that the usual 
results in autumn produce would be forthcoming, altogether ignoring 
the dryness and the want of water power in summer. There are 
plenty of employers who will sympathise with the gardener in the loss 
of Cabbages and Broccoli from frost, but they will be apt to forget the 
frost in the fine sunny days of April and May, and perhaps grumble 
over the want of the accustomed supply. No gardener can at once 
make up the deficiency, but if wise he will try every means to let it be 
felt as little as possible. Of one thing he may rest assured, that when 
fine weather comes the effects of the frost will be little considered. 
The fine-weather produce will be eagerly looked for, and he must try 
by every means not to allow wants to be felt.—R. F. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


Tue public will hail with satisfaction the appointment of 
Mr. Gibson as the SUPERINTENDENT oF Hypr Parr Aanp Ken- 
SINGTON GARDENS, in both of which, and especially the latter, 
there is much room for the exercise of Mr. Gibson’s well- 
known taste in garden design and his skill as a cultivator. His 
new position will afford a fresh field and a greater scope than 
Battersea Park, which has rendered his name world-famous. 
The superintendence of Barrersea Park, we understand, falls 
to Mr. Roger, late of Berry Hill, Maidenhead, and that of 
VicrortA Park to Mr. Macintyre, formerly of Kew. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

As the land becomes dry turn back with the fork the plot 
intended for Carrots, that it may become pulverised and open 
before sowing. The most profitable Carrots for small families 
are the Scarlet Short Horn and the Short Orange; a few of the 
Long Red may be added, as they keep somewhat better. Pre- 
pare a sheltered border for sowing a small crop of Cauliflowers, 
Cabbages, Brussels Sprouts, Savoys, and Leeks. To huve the 
Leeks fine, sow under glass in a little heat, and afterwards 
prick out. Also, as the ground becomes dry, turn back with a 
fork the plot intended for Onions, preparatory to sowing as pre- 
viously advised. The most useful kinds of Onions for general 
purposes are the White Spanish or Portugal, Strasburg, or 
White Globe, with a few of James’s Keeping for late use. 
Underground Onions are useful for affording bulbs till the 
general crop is ready, and the true Silverskin for pickling. 
The autumn-sown plants should now be transferred to a warm 
rich border to furnish an early supply, likewise a few of the 
smallest bulbs of last year for the same purpose. Parsley and 
Winter Spinach will be much improved by a dressing of soot 
on the first wet day. Protect the crowns of Rhubarb, particu- 
larly the early kinds, by straw placed over them. Sea-kale in 
the open ground should be earthed-up to blanch. When the 
soil is sandy and light it may serve, but should be broken down 
fine before placing it over the crowns, that the heads may not 
grow crooked. On heavy soils old tan, decayed leaves, or coal 
ashes are useful substitutes for blanching. 


FRUIT GARDEN. 

Presuming that the pruning, training, &c., of trees and fruit 
bushes is now complete and the ground properly forked over 
between them, attention should be directed to the Strawberry 
plantations, which generally appear to have suffered severely. 
The beds should be cleared of weeds, and a dressing of rotten 
manure spread between the rows; it may afterwards be forked 
in very lightly, so as not to injure the roots. In doing this 
spread @ little soil up to the crowns of the plants; doing so 
will assist the growth of new surface roots. Last season’s 
runners should be gone over, and those which have been thrown 
out by the action of the frost should be made firm in the soil. 
Afterwards mulch the surface. Last season’s leaves, although 
turned brown, should remain on the old plants for some time, 
in order to protect the new growth from cutting winds and 
frost. Apricots, Peaches, &c., if not previously covered, should 
have the protecting material put on, quite as much for the 
present to retard the opening of the flowers as afterwards to 
protect them from frost. The longer the opening of the flowers 
can be kept back the greater the chance of a crop. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

The mixed or picturesque styles of gardening being those 
most generally adopted in places of moderate extent and for 
situations where a more formal style would not harmonise with 
other objects, herbaceous plants should always form a principal 


feature in gardens of the above description, and especially 
where the proprietor is resident the greater part of the year. 
To those who have hitherto grown only the usual bedding-out 
plants and annuals, and who have te wait till midsummer for 
a display of flowers, it is recommended that they procure a 
selection of the more showy Delphiniums, Campanulas, Phloxes, 
Dianthuses, and other ornamental herbaceous plants, Liliums, 
&e.; for planting among shrubs in borders, and for mixed beds, 
they are invaluable, while the fact of their affording a succes- 
sion of bloom from early spring almost to Christmas ought to 
obtain for them a more general introduction, particularly where 
cut flowers and a continuous show of blossom are essential. 
The improvement in habit and colour which is annually taking 
place in the above and other genera of herbaceous plants is 
an additional inducement for growing them. A few annuals, 
including German Ten-week Stocks, may be sown in pots 
thinly for transplanting in the open borders in April for an 
early bloom, more especially as many autumn-sown annuals will 
have perished. Any Anemones yet remaining out of the ground 
should be planted, and the same direction will serve for any 
other bulbs yet unplanted. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

The earliest started hybrid Khododendrons and Azaleas, if 
now opening their flowers, should be placed in the conservatory, 
where they will add much towards making the house more than 
usually gay by the large masses of colour which good specimens 
of these showy plants present. During the period of blossom 
they must not be allowed to suffer from want of water, as the 
flowers always droop when such is the case. To make room 
for the above and other forced plants, any Camellias in pots 
which are going out of bloom may be removed to a cool house 
to rest. Keep up a supply of the various kinds of Roses, Lilacs, 
Weigelas, and the general stock of forced shrubs and bulbous 
plants. Those useful spring-flowering plants are equally valu- . 
able for cut flowers as for show. In addition, do not forget to 
have a large share of scented plants, as forced Sweet Briar, 
Aloysia citriodora, Oranges, Daphnes, Mignonette, and Violets, 
plants which are always in request. The weather having be- 
come milder, fire heat may be dispensed with for hardwooded 
greenhouse plants, unless the night temperature falls below 35°. 
At this time, however, and for a few weeks, let the necessary 
waterings and cleaning be done sufficiently early in the day for 
the air of the house to become dry before evening, when less 
danger will arise to the plants by a low night temperature than 
when they are exposed to it surrounded by a damp atmosphere. 
Pelargoniums, Calceolarias, and similar plants of soft growth 
should be kept in a night temperature of 45°, which may be 
increased a few degrees if the plants are wanted to bloom early. 
Keep them near the glass, and at a sufficient distance apart to 


admit the light freely to their lower leaves, which otherwise 


will turn sickly and fall off. 
STOVE. 

Stove plants which have been pruned-in and have madea 
few inches of new wood should be potted. Large specimens of 
Clerodendrons, Allamandas, Vineas, &c., should be partly 
shaken out and moderately disrco‘ed. After potting plunge in 
a mild bottom heat, and syringe frequently to promote a 
healthy growth. Water must only be moderately supplied to 
recently potted plants until they become established. Let the 
night temperature be 65°, with an increase of from 10° to 15° 
on bright days. Although the shifting and fresh dressing of 
the general stock of Orchids will in most cases be completed, 
yet when the stock is extensive and contains a number cf 
duplicates they should not all be started at the same time, as 
it is more desirable to have a succession of plants for blooming 
than a glut at one season, unless special reasons sanction a 
contrary practice. As this tribe is now mostly commencing 
growth, a gradual increase of temperature, accompanied with 
atmospheric moisture, should take place to encourage the 
utmost development of the present season’s growth. Care 
must be taken that at this critical period of their growth the 
young shoots are neither rotted off by water being allowed to 
lodge round them, nor destroyed by slugs or insests. The 
latter should be trapped, and a nightly examination be made 
by candlelight for the former till a riddance be effected.—W. 
Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 
AnorHeEr glorious week—enough to make the heart of the 
seed-sower rejoice, for never did we see ground in better con- 
dition for sowing. We had the March dust even before March 


184 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 9, 1871. 


came, let us hope we shall see something of April showers, for 
in this district water is anything but abundant, and thoughtful 
people are beginning in earnest to see the importance of not 
allowing the rains that fall on buildings to run to waste as 
formerly. 

Such a season as this presents us with a vivid contrast as to 
the labours and cares of the farmer and the gardener. The 
farmer, when he has all his main seed crops transferred to the 
soil, can take a little repose; but, even in such fine weather as 
this, the gardener can sow only a small part of what he must 
have as produce during the season. With him, except as re- 
gards root crops, the question is less how to bring a number of 
crops to maturity than to have a number of succession crops, 
fit to be consumed in a juicy, succulent state, and therefore, 
however anxious, he can take but comparatively little advan- 
tage of the fine weather, so far as sowing is concerned. 

KITCHEN GARDEN. 

We have sown Parsnips, and a portion of Onions and Car- 
rots, and will sow more Onions in the course of a week, as well 
as more Carrots at intervals of several weeks. For giving 
satisfaction with rich crisp Carrots, it is advisable to sow fre- 
quently until the middle and end of May, and even later. The 
worm seldom attacks Carrots whilst they are young, and even 
if they are not so large, they are very sweet and nice from late 
sowings, and suit admirably for being cooked whole. Parsnip 
being a very hardy seed can scarcely be sown too soon, if the 
ground is mellow, dry, and nicely pulverised. Beetroot, Salsafy, 
and Scorzonera we defer sowing for a few weeks longer, as there 
ig a risk of their showing a seed stem when sown early. For 
all these root crops the ground should be well moved by trench- 
ing, ridging, and re-ridging if it is stiff; and to obtain fine, 
straight, clean roots, the manure given to such ground should 
be placed at the bottom of the trench to entice the roots 
downwards, and hence the surface soil should be poor rather 
than rich. With such care, even in old rich kitchen gardens, 
fine roots can be obtained by having these crops following 
a rather exhausting crop of the Cabbage tribe or Peas. We 
have sometimes had such roots after Celery, but whether the 
Celery was in rows or beds, the dung of the trenches, however 
equally distributed, was apt, from getting mingled with the 
surface staple, to encourage surface-rooting too much, and 
hence we are liable to have forked, branched, and crooked roots 
instead of clear, handsome, straight ones. 

In all old gardens, with a superabundance of organic matter 
in the shape of manure, and which is apt to become sour and 
inert, nothing will be of such service as a dressing of quicklime 
incorporated with the soil. Even chalk in stiff soils will often 
be of great service as a lightener and regulator of moisture, but 
it will not act as a solvent like quicklime. In some cases it is 
quite surprising how a coating of an inch of lime will render a 
stiff soil porous and easily pulverised. It adds little or nothing, 
however, in the way of fertility to poor hungry soils, but even 
in them it acts beneficially by making them more retentive of 
moisture, whilst in stiff heavy ground the extra moisture, 
through its influence, passes off more freely. The most striking 
effect of a lime dressing is to be found on soil that may be 
said, from frequent cropping and manuring, to have become 
dung-sick; on such ground the effect is often very striking. 
With such a dressing the crops of Potatoes obtained in old 
kitchen gardens are often wonderful: hence lime acts most 
effectively on peat-mossy land, rendering the inert astringent 
vegetable matter soluble. On such ground we have seen ex- 
traordinary crops of Carrots. 

We planted a good breadth of early Potatoes, placing them 
about 6 inches deep, as then, in common seasons, it is a 
matter of little importance whether they are earthed up or not. 
Last summer we wished we had earthed all ours up, as those 
earthed-up felt the effects of the dryness least, and ripened a 
heavy crop of fine tubersearly. Those not earthed did not yield 
such fine tubers, the drought sooner reached the roots. In an 
ordinary favourable season we have found that Potatoes planted 
from 6 to more inches in depth yielded quite as good, and in 
some cases heavier crops than those that were earthed-up. 
Last season was so exceptional in its dryness that it is hardly 
appropriate to draw conclusions from it, except in the way of 
warning. ‘ 

Plenty of air was given in the fine days to Potatoes, Radishes, 
Carrots, Lettuces, &c., in frames. Planted out a piece of early 
Potatoes in an earth pit, with hot leaves and manure beneath 
them, and some old sashes and other protection over them. 
Sowed Radishes between, as they will be ready to be off before 
the Potatoes shoot many inches. Our most forward Potatoes 


were planted in 9-inch pots, and placed in front of the Peach 
house until they were rather in the way and began to give 
signs of drawing a little, when they were removed to an earth 
pit, the pots being plunged an inch or two over the rims ina 
bed of old and new leaves that just yielded a mild heat, whilst 
the tops were protected with old sashes. These are tubering 
very nicely, and, as # general rule, early gatherings may be 
obtained more easily from pots than from Potatoes planted out 
in frames and pits. 

We have a strong regard for box frames covered with sashes ; 
they can be so easily moved, and turned to so many purposes, 
and when used for early Radishes, Carrots, and even Potatoes, 
they can be moved off as the spring advances, a more modest 
protection given, and the frames and glass used for other crops 
needing more heat. The brick pit cannot be moved. You 
may, in the same way as just stated, use the glass lights, but 
nothing more. Whilst loving the old frames in which even from 
early Cucumbers and Melons we have seen almost as great 
results obtained as by the best mode of heating by hot water— 
upon the whole, wherever there is game encouraged near the 
garden, and that game is fed when necessary, we should like 
entirely to substitute pits for frames, as mice and rats cannot 
so easily enter by the brick, and, if the wall-plates are sound, 
can hardly enter at all, except when the sashes are open. At 
one time when the wall-plates of even pits were worn cut, it 
was not uncommon to find in the morning two or three runs 
made through the plate, and much mischief done by cutting 
things down in mere wantonness. When pits are resolyed 
upon, it will be a great advantage to have them together, and 
in all cases where fuel is easily obtained, to furnish them with 
piping sufficient to keep out frost, as the fuel will rarely cost 
so much as covering, labour, and the breakage likely to be in- 
curred. One evil, however, is very likely to ensue, and that 
is, if there is no hotbed of dung formed, the gardener may 
wish and wish over and over again for manure when he really 
wants it. 

The Effects of the Winter.—We had a slight tour on business 
the other day, and where all vegetables as a rule were a week 
or ten days earlier than here, and, if such a thing could be 
possible, the wreck was more general; but in a few cottage 
gardens we found the Cabbages have stood, and in each case 
the plants were smaller and younger than ours. As already 
stated, our crops withstood the severest frost uninjured, but 
the damp, and fog, and comparative warmth between the two 
frosts did the injury. We were not aware that the temperature 
had been so low in this neighbourhood. Mr. John Fells, of 
Hitchen, told us that on one night with him the thermometer 
fell below zero of Fahrenheit for a couple of hours or so, 
and then if rose, and to that low temperature he traced the 
destruction among some of his finest shrubs. We forget now 
the hours of the night in which it was coldest with him, 
but we did not notice it so cold here at any time, and part of 
the mystery may have been that we did not notice the thermo- 
meter during these hours. We think, however, from all we 
have heard that the temperature varied much in different dis- 
tricts, and that in some cases it was the coldest in dry light 
soils, where we should have supposed it to be the warmest. 
On such light lands Laurustinus, Cupressus Lambertiana, &c., 
have been killed to the ground, whilst here they exhibit no 
trace of injury. In one place we saw the common Laurel as if 
the shoots had been exposed to a blast from a furnace, whilst 
here they are as green as if no frost had touched them. Sin- 
gularly enough, in some places where shrubs have thus suffered 
the Cabbages have suffered far less than ours. Our expecta- 
tions are so far realised, that in the light-land merket gardens 
about Sandy and Biggleswade the young Cabbage plants have 
stood comparatively uninjured, and all the better the smaller 
the plants were. As remarked some time ago, the thoughtful 
garcener must use every means to bring up his leeway, as 
when the fine weather in May comes on the frost and its 
disasters will be apt to be forgotten. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

We have not yet limewashed any of our dwarf fruit trees, 
but we fear we shall have to do so, as though the short hard- 
billed birds are less numerous than last year, they have made 
their mark on some of the most forward buds. Potted of 
Melon and Cucumber plants a second time, as we haye no place 
ready for them as yet, and little is lost by having strong plants 
when turned out. A few Cucumbers are still to be had from 
some old plants in a small pit, and the young plants in large 
pots will soon take their place. No weather could be more 
favourable to them after the dull weeks and months. In all 


March 9, 1871. ] 


such sudden changes from dulness to brightness, a little 
shading for an hour or two is often more beneficial than water- 
ing when the roots are moist enough. The plants should never 
flag, but in such sudden extremes from cloud to bright sunshine 
the leaves cannot at once, though there may be moisture enough 
at the roots, get the requisite amount of liquid to meet the 
greatly increased evaporation. A slight syringing to arrest 
evaporation will often be better than shading. We have even 
sprinkled the outside of the sashes with clean water, as before 
that was evaporated the rays of the sun did not pass freely. 
It is always advisable never to allow a leaf to flag, whatever 
mode be used to prevent it. The great evil of shading is not 
so much shading when necessary by any simple mode, as that 
the putter-on is apt to allow the shading to remain too long. 
Every minute it remains on when not wanted tends to make 
a plant weak, and to rob it of its naturalrobustness. Except for 
plants that naturally delight in the shade, the less shade they 
have, save in sudden extremes of dulness and brightness under 
glass, the better it will be for them. 

Manure watering to everything in pots should also be given 
with discretion; it is seldom advisable to give it to flowering 
plants before the flower buds appear and the pots are well 
filled with roots; for such things as Strawberries in pots the 
flower truss should show boldly. For Melons it is best to have 
the fruit set and swelling before manvre water is given. There 
would be fewer errors on this subject if we could always re- 
collect that brandy and fine old port are different things from 
small beer, however refreshing the latter may be. We once 
knew of some young Vines with roots near the surface of the 
border, and they never recovered after a copious watering taken 
from the cesspool of a large stable, and applied just as it came. 
The liquid was so strong that it would have stood well five or 
six times its bulk of common water, and then been strong 
enough for anything. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 


form in the pleasure ground, and for levelling and turf-laying 
no weather could be finer. If we should have a good rain in « 
short time all will be well, and the fresh turfing will never be 
distinguishable in summer. Where experienced layers of turf 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


185 


; the shoots cut over and mangled when above ground and show- 


cannot be found much may be done by levelling well, and having | 


the turf cut of uniform width and thickness. 


Many old lawns | 


become uneven in the course of years, and taking them up, | 
fresh levelling, and relaying, besides other advantages, are next | 


to a death blow to the most staring broad-leaved weeds. 
A short time ago we noticed an inquiry as to the merits of a 


weeds on lawns, as Daisies, Plantains, &c. 
for the present the maker’s name. 


We have forgotten 
The great objection to the 


free use of the material was its price, except for a lawn of the | 


smallest dimensions. We tried a little barrel of it, and found 


that when freely applied all such leaves first became black, | 


then shrivelled up and disappeared, and the roots of Plantains 
were killed to their extremities. Smaller doses killed the 
leaves and part of the root-stems, but in a month or two small 
stems came again from the bottom of the root. What seemed 
to us, however, the most incredible part of the statement of 
the maker and vendor was, that this sand powder would do no 
injury to, but rather improve, the common grasses of our lawns ; 
but we found this statement perfectly correct, inasmuch as 
whilst it blackened and shrivelled up Plautains, &., it did no 
injury to the common grasses. On the whole, on the score of 
economy, we satisfied ourselves that it would be cheaper to 
grub up Plantains, &c., to the extremities of the roots than to 
use the prepared sand. But there are many who would like to 
get rid of the weeds without disturbing their lawns, and if any 
of our readers have tried the remedy we should ke glad to hear 
the results. We regret forgetting the maker’s name, but we 
have no doubt he has discovered the means of at least tempo- 
rarily putting Plantains and other large-leaved plants on a 
lawn out of sight without injuring the grassof thelawn. More 
decided effectiveness may yet be combined with more economy. 

Forward bulbs out of doors will require a little protection from 
frost and heavy rains if thesecome. We find great difficulty in 
keeping such bulbs as Crocuses without being well protected. 
We have even had the shoots cut over after showing flower. 
We are almost inclined to give way to envy when we see lines 
and combinations of Crocuses without a seeming break in the 
whole, as if the mice disdained to touch them. We may trap 
by scores, but still the corms of the Crocuses are eaten up. 
We have thought of several modes of doctoring the corms; but 
then that would be of no avail as @ preventive against having 


| strike and grow very fast. 
| potting all such tender plants in a warm place, using warmed 
chemically prepared sand for eradicating all such broad-leaved | 


ing bloom. 

We took the opportunity of turning up empty flower beds 
and leaving them rough, as we prefer what manure we give to 
be chiefly confined near the surface, to encourage early rooting 
after planting. 

Violets are now coming plentifully in the open air. Our 
Czar protected with glass has been very fine. Our Neapolitans 
this year have not been up to the mark during the winter, 
though showing well now. The reason is, that owing to the 
dryness of the summer, and our inability to water them, the 
plants suffered much from red spider. We kept them alive by 
shading them with evergreen boughs, but the shading helped 
to weaken them. We trust that they will all be secure next 
season, as though we may be prejudiced, we still think a fine, 
large, Neapolitan Violet the king of. Violets. For making-up,. 
nothing equals the Czar, owing to the long footstalks or flower 
stems, as well as the size of the flowers. We have not had an 
opportunity of seeing some new and different-coloured Violets, 
single and double, and inquiries have been made about them 
which we could not answer. We should be glad if correspon- 
dents would state the results of their experience, and more 
especially if there is any white, pink, or reddish variety, either 
single or double, that for general utility will equal the Czar. 
We have had some good gatherings of this kind from our 
open border towards the end of February, and now it is be- 
ginning to show from a row at the base of the north side of 
a wall. We put it there hoping to have it later than in the 
open ground, and we shall continue this practice. No plant is. 
more easily multiplied, for, not to speak of runners, a small 
plant of last May may be divided into a good number as soon 
as it has done blooming. Like other Violets, it is improved 
by dividing and moving. It should not bloom more than two 
seasons in one place. We rather think it does best when 


| planted every year, as a small plant in April or May becomes a 
There is still much planting, turfing, and alteration to per- | 


strong plant before the autumn, if there are showers in the 
summer. 
Mach work has been done in potting, cutting-striking, &c.,. 


/and the great object now is to find room and conveniences for 
| the plants required, without injuring general crops. 


Many 
of us must put every house to a number of purposes. Potted- 
off a good batch of the brown and other Coleuses, Iresines, 
&z., but must top them several times to obtain the number 
required. With a little bottom heat, however, such plants 
Speed will also be obtained by 


water, and well-aired warm soil. The less check a plant or a 
cutting has the better, and the more likely will a healthy 
growth and freedom from insects be secured. The great secret 
of striking cuttings is to secure the cutting feeling as little as 
possible its severance from the parent plant. When we see 
cuttings from a warm plece lying welted and flagging in a shed, 
or left in a cold place after being inserted, we often wish that. 
the cuttings had a voice, and used it in remonstrance.—R, F. 


TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED. 


F. & A. Dickson & Sons, 106, Eastgate Street, and Upton Nurseries, 
Chester.— Catalogue of Farm Seeds. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

*,* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the “ Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, &c., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 

We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same: 
sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry 
and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them answered 
promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate 
communications. Also neyer to send more than two or 
three questions at once. i 

N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. 

RoyaL Horricu,TuRAL Socrety’s EXHIBITIONS (Pomona).—If you write 


to J. Richards, Esq., Assistant Secretary, Royal Horticultural Society, 
South Kensington, he will send you full printed particulars. 

VinE Manvat (R. Whitaker).—No new edition is about to be issued, as 
such is not required. It is the ‘‘ Fruit Manual” which is in preparation. 


DINNER-TABLE Decoration (H; C.),—We shall readily receive your 
notes. 


186 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ March 9, 1871. 


Most Propuctive ‘Fruit TrEEs (J. C.).—How could any opinion be 
given without the slightest information as to soil, elevation, locality, 


whether for kitchen or dessert, and whether early or late varieties are 
needed ? 


Grass SEEDS Sowrxe (W. B. B.).—The beginning of April is the most 
Suitable time to sow Grass seeds, taking advantage of weather in which 
there is an early prospect of rain. 


__ SEEDS (4. B. C.).—Messrs. Wrench & Son, Seedsmen, King William 
‘Street, London, E.C., can inform you. 


PLANTING PEAR TREES (A Subscriber).—We can hardly give an opinion 
as to your probable ultimate success. The precautions you have taken 
-for preventing the roots getting into the subsoil are so far good, if sufii- 
cient. They may induce the roots to spread nearer the surface, although 
they may not absolutely prevent their descending. Werecommend you to 


examine the roots frequently and arrest any that may have a downward 
tendency. 


,, HYAcmnTHs FoR THE 127TH FEBRUARY (Jacob).—For flowering by the 
“time you name the bulbs should be potted at the end of September or 
early in October, and should be kept plunged in coal ashes in a cold frame. 
At the close of November they should be placed in a house with a tempe- 
rature of from 40° to 45°, and be continued there until the end of Decem- 
ber, when they should be placed in a light airy position in a house with a 
temperature of from 45° to 50°, andin a fortnight they should have a 
temperature of 60° to 55°. When in flower they should be moved to a 
cooler house. They will flower finely at the time you require. You will 
find the Properties of the Hyacinth fully given in “ Florists’ Flowers for 
the Many.” It may be had post free from our office if you enclose five 
postage stamps with your address. 


BrGonra Phants Gone orr (A Young Gardener).—The cause of the 
plants going off, we should say, is the late sowing of the ceed, and conse- 
quent small growth made before winter, and the “ plenty of water” would 
only assist their going off. Lessen the supply of water, not giving any 
until the soil becomes dry, and then enough to show itself at the drainage. 


This is a good time to sow the seed, but we should not hesitate to sow | 


aaa the herbaceous kinds when ripe. The latter are best sown in 

CucuxuBER AND Meton Pits (Yeoman).—Where there is no fear of 
water, or a drain can be laid to carry off any water that may run towards 
the pit, the excavation may be 2 feet 6 inches deep, and along the back 
and front you will require a space of 2 feet for linings of hot dung—that 
is, if you contemplate forcing early, but if you intend to use it only in 
summer, then the linings may be dispensed with. The walls of the pit 
should be pigeon-holed up to the ground level, or 2 feet 6 inches high in 
front, and 3 feet 6 inches at back. The inner walls, or those of the pit, 
need not be more than half a brick (4h inches) thick, and above the pigeon- 
holes they should be built solid. The sides of the excavation will need 
brickwork a brick thick to keep up the soi), and should be carried-up level 
with the ground, and then havea course of well-burnt bricks set on edge. 
The height of the front wall should be 4 feet, and of the back 6 feet. You 
will need a partition to divide the part intended for Cucumbers from that 
proposed for Melons. A 41-inch wall answers very well. Cox’s Volunteer 
is a good Cucumber of easy culture, Telegraph is also excellent, and so is 
Alasters’s Prolific, a not-large but very free-bearing sort. Of Melons, 
Heckfield Hybrid and Beechwood are good green-fleshed sorts, and 
pean Hall and Pine Apple (Wills), are fine, free-setting, scarlet-fleshed 
& . 


Fruit TREEs Newry PLANTED (Q.Q.).—No practice is so bad as cutting 


newly-planted fruit trees to skeletons. Do not shorten any of the shoots ! 


coe the wall trees except the central shoots, which shuld be pruned-in to 
22 or 18 inches. The short stubby shoots leave entire, if not of greater 
jJength than a few inches, and all the terminal shoots train-in at full 
jength. Of course, you will need to cut back all side shoots not intended 
to form principal branches to within half or three-quarters of an inch of 
their base, but leaving the spurs entire. It will hardly be necessary to 
water this month, but if the weather be very dry water may be given, 
though we have not found it necessary in a quarter of a century’s practice. 
If the soil be moist itis all they require. ‘fhe Vines planted in hampers 
and placed in a friend’s greenhouse, with canes6 feet long, will need to be 
pruned to the length required to reach from the ground to the wires of 
the proposed vinery; but as the time is gone by for pruning, we would as 
they swell rub off the eyes to the height you require, and when there are 
deayes you can cut away the disbudded part. In planting remove the 
Woodwork of the hampers, for if buried we are not certain that it would 
not breed fungus injurious to the Vines. 


FRUIT-Room Construction (4. M.).—The site of a fruit-room should 
be low rather than elevated, as when it is somewhat below the ground 
level there will be less fluctuation of temperature. It is necessary, how- 
-ever, that the site should be dry, and if not it must be elevated so as to 
guard against damp; the floor should be concreted, and the foundations 
of the walls ought to be asphalted, so as to prevent damp from rising. It 
is well to plaster the walls with cement. A north aspect is most suitable, 
and next to that east; a south or south-west aspect is the worst of all. It 
is very important to maintain an equable temperature, and the best 
means of securing it is double walls having a cavity of about 8 inches. 
Confined air is the best non-conductor of heat, and applies equally to cold 
and damp. The roof should be double-ceiled, with a cavity between. 
The most suitable temperature is 40°, and not exceeding 50°. Provision 
should be made for ventilation to dry-up any superfluous moisture, and 
especially in autumn, when the fruit is housed in quantity; therefore, 
Means of giving thorough ventilation should be provided for, and the 
power. to close should be equally effective. he ventilation should be 
provided in the highest part of the room, as it then admits of a freer cir- 
culation of air. Light will be necessary for operations in connection 
with the fruit, but at all other times the room must be quite dark. The 
windows must have close-fitting shutters, and, like the walls, should be 
dowble ; in severe weather they should be covered with mats, and if they 
enclose hay and are placed on the outside they will better exclude cold. 
The atmosphere must not be dried by fire heat, and so long as the fruit 
is dry the room is not too damp. The means of affording artificial heat 
should be as far distant from the fruit as possible, and in no case beneath 
it. Those are the main essentials of a fruit-room. 


Fruit AND PLANT Hovusres Comsinep (J. N.).—In building such houses 


itis advisable to have them in two or three divisions, as thus you can 
have a succession of fruit and flowers. For early Grapes we prefer a 


lean-to house with a wall on the north side, sloping glass to face the 
south, and the slope not less steep than an angle of 45°. For general 
crop, and to contain piants for flowering and bedding, we would avoid 
the building of a high wall, and have a house from 16 to 24 feet in width, 
with a pathway down the centre, and a stage or platform at each side. 
Glass will be found cheaper than brick, but for early work more heating 
will be required for a span than for 2 lean-to roof, the wall at back acting 
both as a protection and a reservoir of warmth. Such a house could 
have its ends due north and south, the north end of brick, the south end 
of glass. This would answer very well, but instead of due north and 
south we would prefer the ends to bea little north-east and sonth-west. 
We should thus obtain the greatest possible amount of sun. Thereisa 
great advantage in such span-roofed houses thus placed—that the mid- 
day sun strikes the roof obliquely, and the greatest heat will be obtained 
respectively on the east and west slopes. According to circumstances 
the decision must be made. A low wall on each side would do for a steep 
span roof, and the bottom ventilation could be given in the wall, and the 
top by double-ridge board and cowl, so that all the roof could be fixed on 
the orchard-house principle, or easily moved on the Beard or the groove 
principle. As stated above, if lean-to, the houses should face the south; 
if span-roofed the slopes should more or less face due east and west. We 
would advise that the Vines be planted inside in either case; butif a 
wide-span house we would have a border inside and outside too if con- 
venient. The simplest mode of doing so is to build the front wall on 
arches or piers. The latter would answer very well with a stone or iron 
sillif you had front lights for ventilation. If the ventilation is to be in 
the wall, then an arched wall would be best. 


Briar Tops Coverrnc—Roses Prounixe (T. G.).—The tops of the 
Briars should be pruned smooth, and may be brushed over with patent 
knotting, such as painters use. We consider the end of February not too 
early to prune Roses, but for a late bloom pruning may be advantageously 
done at the commencement of March. 


Box For Epernes (J. J.).—Now is a good time to put in cuttings of 
Box, slipping off the pieces, and inserting them with 1 or 2 inches of the top 
out of the soil. The top should not be pruned; merely remove any irre- 
gularities of growth. Many evergreen shrubs may be propagated in the 
same way; but the best time to put them in is at the end of summer 
when the growth is complete, say the end of September. Water the Box 
if the weather be ary after planting, and afterwards in dry weather until 
it is growing freely. 

SELECTIONS OF PLANTs FoR NoRTH WALL, &c. (H.S. N.).—Sizx Climbers 
for a north wall are Ampelopsis hederacea, Hedera hibernica (canariensis 
of some), H. Reegneriana, H. Helix foliis variegatis, H. Helix aurea, and 
Cotoneaster microphylla. Ivies are the most suitable subjects fora north 
wall. Twenty-four Hybrid Perpetual Roses may be Achille Gonod, Alfred 
Colomb, Baronne Prevost, Camille Bernardin, Caroline de Sansal, Charles 
Lefebvre, Comte de Nanteuil, Dr. Andry, Duc de Rohan, Elie Morel, 
Gloire de Santenay, John Hopper, Lady Suffield, Louise Peyronny, Ma- 
dame la Baronne de Rothschild, Madame Victor Verdier, Maréchal Vail- 
lant, Paul Verdier, Pierre Notting, Princess Mary of Cambridge, Senateur 
Vaisse, Vainqueur de Goliath, Victor Verdier, and William Griffiths, Six 
Golden Tricolor Pelargoniums—Achievement, Lucy Grieve, Sunray, Jetty 
Lacy, Lady Cullum, and Miss Watson. Siz Goldenand Bronze—Edward 
George Henderson, Egyptian Queen, Fascination, Masterpiece, President, 
and Trojan. Siz Si Tricolors—Mrs. John Clutton, Excellent, May 
Queen, Picturata, Italia Unita, and Cherub. Six Vines for a cold house— 
Buckland Sweetwater, Black Hamburgh, Black Champion, Trentham 
Black, Foster’s White Seedling, and General della Marmora. Twelve shrubs 


for an east aspect—Aucuba japonica, Berberis Aquifolium, common and 


Portugal Laurel, tree Box of sorts, Hollies, Cotoneaster Simmondsii, Phil- 
adelphus coronarius, Ribes sanguineum, Lilacs, Sambucus racemosa, 
and Skimmia japonica. 

ARRANGEMENT OF Hovwsss (R. T. G.).—There can be no objection to 
the proposed arrangement as it is given, and no doubt the propagating 
pit would be useful. In either case you might plant Vines at the back of 
the vinery, but if the hipped roof were contrived to form the span of the 
same slope as the other side, there would be more room for the Vines. 
The Vines against the back-wall will not succeed there unless the glass 
roof be but moderately covered. They will fruit well when they reach the 
glass. We have seen Vines do admirably when planted thus on the 
north side, and trained down the glass in a lean-to house. We prefer 
that 2 span-roofed house for a vinery should have its sides east and west, 


’ and its ends north and south. 


PLANTING AND Pruninc YotuNG Vines (A Subscriber).—lfi you are 
afraid that the young Vines would bleed if pruned back to the necessary 
length now, we would let them alone, but as soon as the buds lengthen, 
say half an inch or so, you may rub off all you do not want, but you must 
not cut them off; that will cause bleeding, but the rubbing off with the 
thumb and finger will not. When the Vines have started and made a 
foot of young wood, you may prune back safely as you propose, but by 
that mode you will be apt to check the Vine more, and lose so much more 
for the main shoot, than by the above mode of rubbing off the started 
buds. 

Forcinc STRAWBERRIES (Fifteen-years Subscriber)—To succeed in 
forcing Strawberries well, the following simple matters will have to be 
attended to, and, for the sake of simplicity, we shall confine ourselves to 
one mode. First, 2ssoon #s you can obtainrunners, however small, from 
a fruitful Strawberry plant, place the runner with its incipient roots in a 
small pot (60-sized), with a pebble in it to keep the runner in the rich 
light soil. Water frequently until the pot is full of roots. When it isso 
filled cut the runner, take away the plants in the pots, and let them stand 
in a shady place for a few days. Then shift these well-rooted plants 
into 5 or 6-inch pots, using rich stiff soil, and keeping the bud of the 
plant nearly level with the rim of the pot. Make the soil all round the 
ball as hard as you well can with fingers and a stick. Most likely 
the pots will need a little shade for a few days after potting, but after 
that the plants cannot have too much sun, and the pots should stand on 
a hard bottom. When the pots become crammed with roots use manure 
water of yarious kinds freely, provided it is not too strong, for too stong 
doses are to be ayoided. As autumn advances let the plants have all the 
sun possible, but diminish watering that the buds may be well ripened. In 
winter, if the pots can be protected from frost, snow, and excessive rains, 
it will all be in fayour of the plants. In cold places in the north itis 
often advisable to prick ont small runners, let them haye a summer’s — 
growth, and take them up next summer and pot for forcing. 


March 9, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 187 


WIREWorRMs (7. Mayes).—It is very difficult to eradicate wireworms 
when they find their way in such abundance into an orchard house. We 
are of opinion that the modes suggested by you would greatly reduce, if 
not exterminate, the enemy. Meanwhile, as the time has gone on and 
nothing has been done, we should be inclined to give a good watering 
with guano, or with soot water, which would mrke the wireworms a little 
uncomfortable, and then insert all over sliced Carrots, and examine the 
baits every day. 

BuckwuHeatT (J. Bell).—Sow in April; three pecks will be enough seed 
for your half acreif you drill it in; keep it hoed. No special culture is 
needed, and on rich land it runs too much tostem. It succeeds even in 
Russia. The seed will be ripe by the end of October. Pull up the plants, 
for the seed sheds very readily. 

Ants (4. C.).—Soak their haunts for a few days successively with am- 
moniacal liquor from the gas works. ‘The Poultry Book for the Many” 
will suit you. You can have it free by post from our office if you enclose 
seven postage stamps with your address. 

PuLaNTs Tor Cover IN Boeey Sou (P. C.).—Few shrubs would suc- 
ceed in boggy soil unless it could be drained. In this case you might 
grow Berberis Darwinii, B. repens, B. Aquifolium ; Rhododendron ponti- 
cum, Aucuba, common Laurel, evergreen Privet, St. John’s Wort, com- 
mon Berberry, Black Thorn, common and red-berried Elder, Hazel, 
Ribes, Snowberry, Sweet Briar, and Pampas Grass. With the soil not 
drained you will find few shrubs will grow, but you may plant the Alder 
(Alnus glutinosa), the cut-leaved variety being very fine. Both the com- 
mon Dogwood (Cornus mascula), and the red (C. sanguinea), do very 
well. -C. mascula variegata has finely-variegated leaves. Guelder Rose 
(Viburnus Opulus), is also good, and especially V. Opulus nanum, also 
Deutzia scabra. To these may be added Willows ; the American, Palm, 
Bedford, Cane, Norfolk, and common, Red, and Yellow Osier, are all good, 
and should be cut down frequently. Cover being the object, few things 
equal the common Sedges. They make excellent.cover, and so do most 
of the Reeds. Of flowers, in the open spaces employ Calthe, palustris and 
the double variety, Myosotis palustris, Water Iris, and the pimediums, 
with other semi-aquatic plants, which you may, no doubt, find in your 
immediate locality. - 

ABUTILON VENOsUM TREATMENT (B. B).—That is the name of the 
plant of which you enclose a leaf and flower. It requires ordinary green- 
house treatment, and is a good plant for covering walls or trellises. A 
compost of two parts sandy fibrous loam, and one part leaf soil, with a 
liberal admixture of sharp sand and free drainage, will grow it well. 
Repot at once, and to secure shoots for covering the wall take out the 
points of the shoots to induce more branches. It should have a light 
airy position, otherwise it will not flower freely. It is very pretty, and 
well worth a place in every greenhouse. Water should be plentifully 
given when growing, but none should be supplied so long as the soil re- 
mains moist, but when it becomes dry, and betore the foliage flags, give a 
good watering, sufficient to show itself at tke drainage. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


MANAGEMENT OF POULTRY AT SHOWS. 


Hap I the arrangement of any show my plen would be the 
following. I would arrange the regulations so that the latest 
time for admission of specimens should be dusk on the previous 
day. If birds arrived before, I would provide some means of 
thoroughly darkening the exhibition room. If this could be 
done thoroughly, specimens might be taken in at any time, ag 
with scarcely any light the birds would remain passive on the 
bottom of the basket or pen, and allow themselves to be quietly 
handled. In handling fowls I believe the best way is to take 
the bird round the shoulders with both hands, the thumbs 
uppermost, keeping the wings from moving. 

As to Geese, Turkeys, and Ducks, the last-named may be 
treated and handled as fowls. The two former, if the pens are 
on the ground, may, by a gradual and slow tilting of the hamper, 
be made to walk into the pen; but in these larger specimens 
the feathers are so much stouter and the plumage so much less 
easily injured, that there is not the same fear of mischief. 

Much, very much, depends on whether a bird is accustomed 
to being handled, and it is wise for exhibitors to handle their 
specimens frequently, as they are thus rendered tamer. 

One word more. It is far better that shows should close 
early on the last day, that the last meal for the birds should be 
bread soaked in ale or gravy, and that the specimens should 
be packed at once—if there is a night train, to be forwarded by 
it; if not, by the earliest in the morning. 

I see at Northampton the committee promise that the birds 
shall be sent off the following morning ‘ after being well fed.” 
Now, if well fed means hard food, I would much sooner my 
birds were dispatched fasting, and I believe less injury would 
be done.—Y. B. A. Z. 


HANDLING POULTRY. 


Ir I were tc take hold of a Game cock, I would put my right 
hand on his back and secure his wings. I should object tu 
taking an old cock by the legs first, as his spurs are rather 
troublesome. I would secure the wings of all birds first, Geese 


and Turkeys not excepted. When you have a bird between 
your hands, then remove it from the hamper or pen, and there 
will be no fear of damage. I do not approve of taking hold of 
the head, and I hope neither does ‘‘R. D.”—C. P. 


ARE THE OFFICE-BEARERS OF A SOCIETY 
RESPONSIBLE FOR ITS DEBTS? 


In the case of Mrs. Helen Grassick, Oriel Cottage, Edin- 
burgh, against Mr. John Baillie, Treasurer of the Aberdeen 
Poultry Club and Pigeon Association, and against Wm. Grant, 
the Secretary, William Hay and James Anderson, Vice-Presi- 
dents of the Club, wherein the pursuer sues the defenders for 
the sum of £2 12s., being the amount of four prizes gained by 
the pursuer for fowls belonging to and exhibited for com- 
petition by her at the exhibition and competition for poultry 
held by the said Association in December, 1869, the prizes 
being awarded to her by the Association, or their office-bearers, 
or officials, or judges. Sheriff Comrie Thomson has just given 
judgment. It will be remembered that Mrs. Grassick got a& 
Small Debt decree in her favour for the amount against the 
Association, but, it being found that it was impracticable to 
put it in force against the Association, there being no funds, 
she raised this action in the ordinary Court against the de- 
fenders as office-bearers, the contention being that they were 
responsible for the debts of the Association. The Sheriff in 
his interlocutor finds that no relevant ground of liability by 
the defenders has been set forth in the summons, and there- 
fore dismissed the action, holding the pursuer liable for ex- 
penses. In his note the Sheriff says—It was not averred that 
the Aberdeen Poultry or Pigeon Association was a mercantile 
copartnery carried on for the purpose of gaining profit. It 
was plainly of a different nature; and the Sheriff-Substitute 
was of opinion that the well-known rule of law that ‘‘ each 
partner is responsible for the whole debts of a trading com- 
pany” did not apply. 

[The above is extracted from a Scotch newspaper, and we 
think Mrs. Grassick failed because she sued wrong parties. If 
she had had the usual correspondence, written or printed, with 
the Secretary or any other officer or member of the Committee, 
and had sued that correspondent in the Small Debt Court, we 
think she would have recovered the £2 12s. She did obtain a 
decree against ‘‘ the Association,” but the Sheriff’s-Substitute 
rightly decided that such Association is not a sueable partner- 
ship. ] 


OUTRAGES ON PRIZE BIRDS. © 


I sent a valuable Black Red cock to Wolverhampton on the 2nd 
ult. He was seen there in perfect feather on the 4th, but although not. 
noticed in the prize-list, some one evidently considered him a possible: 
winner on some future occasion, for he was returned to me with both. 
sickle feathers broken short, and one of the smaller sickles plucked 
out. I wrote to the Secretary requesting him to use every possible 
means for the discovery of the offender, and authorising him to offer a 
reward of £5 for information which would lead to a conviction, and 
received a reply, saying that he ‘‘is sorry to hear that the bird is- 
injured,” but ‘‘is certain it was not done there,’ and promising te- 
““make every inquiry, and write me again.” How Mr. Barnett happens. 
to be able to speak so confidently of the injury not having been done 
at the Show I cannot understand. If this nuisance continue to in- 
crease, all respectable persons will cease to exhibit, and the poultry 
sharks will be left to mutilate each other’s birds. Will some one take: 
the matter up, and try to establish a fund for the purpose of offering a 
tempting reward for the detection of similar offenders? — Hpwry 
Broveu, Leek. 


Our Journal has contained several communications on this very im- 
portant subject. Since November I have suffered in this way rather 
seriously. To begin with the Southampton Show, I there exhibited a 
Malay cockerel in the Variety class, obtaining the second prize. Now, 
in this case the sickle feathers were not fully grown, and would, if un- 
touched, have lasted till August or September next, and nothing but 
foul play would have removed wholly one of these feathers ; yet on his 
return, one sickle feather was clean gone, root and branch. Then I 
sent a second Malay cockerel to Birmingham, where he was unnoticed ; 
he had been twice exhibited by me before, taking the first prize at 
Whitworth and Rochdale, and the second prize at Middleton, and from 
both these shows he returned with tail undamaged. From Birmingham 
he returned with both sickle feathers broken off, one hanging, the other 
not to be found in the basket, which was lined, and the same in all 
three cases. Lastly, I exhibited at Bristol an old Malay cock, with 
sickle feathers scarcely yet at full growth after moult. He was at the 
head of the Any other Variety class, and he too has returned to me 
with both sickle feathers broken off. 


188 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 9, 1871. 


Now, supposing all these misfortunes to be accidental, it is singular 
(perhaps I am hardly correct in writing this term in my case), but it 
is strange, that three cases should occur in the same small yard in 
three months. Possibly I am now going to touch on somewhat danger- 
ous ground, but the conclusion is rather forced on me. Firstly, I 
would suggest to judges that their handling of specimens should be as 
little as possible, and that in most of the classes it is wholly unneces- 
sary. IL shall probably be hooted at as heterodox! Well, that will 
not hurt me, my opinion remains the same; but allowing that some 
amount of handling is necessary in awarding the prizes—that being 
over, all handling ought to cease, except by the owners themselves, or 
‘in their presence, or, as a matter of appeal, judicially by the committee. 
I have, however, seen a judge giving a perfect lecture on the intricacies 
of a breed to an exhibitor on the day when the exhibition was opened 
to the public, and taking out bird after bird in a manner which I con- 
fess I thought at the time too rough, and which with wild birds might 
easily produce the annoying accidents alluded to. Secondly, sticks 
should be left at the doors by visitors. Lastly, I think such acci- 
dents would often be avoided if all the packing and unpacking of the 
‘birds were performed with the light almost excluded from the building. 

I am quite aware that our railway officials are not too careful over 
our specimens. I therefore always send mine in round hampers lined 
varefully—J. Hiyton, Warminster. : 


POULTRY KILLED BY A DOG. 


As the law respecting the destruction of poultry by dogs 
‘does not seem to be generally known, the following may be 
interesting to many of your readers :— 

“The general rule of law is that the owner of a dog is not 
liable for any injury committed by it to the person or to personal 
property, unless it can be shown that he previously had notice 
of the animal’s mischievous propensity, or that the accident 
was attributable to some other neglect on his part.” Fowls 
being personal property, it follows that a dog may enter a 
poultry-yard, and destroy any number of valuable fowls, and 
the owner of the fowls is without remedy against the owner of 
the dog, unless he can prove that the mischievous propensity 
of the dog was known to its owner, or that the latter has been 
guilty of some neglect. 

Dogs chasing conies in a warren, game in a preserve, deer in 
a park, sheep in a fold, or fowls in a poultry-yard may be 
killed whilst in hot pursuit, but not afterwards. 

A ease, which clearly shows the injustice of this state of the 
Jaw, was recently tried in the County Court at Stockton-on-Tees. 
A pointer dog, whilst being used in sporting, ran away from its 
master into a neighbouring town, where it roved about for 
some days. At length, being hungry, or from some other cause, 
it effected an entrance into a poultry-yard, and destroyed four 
very valuable Cochin fowls. The owner of the property sued 
the owner of the dog, and tried to show that the latter had 
been guilty of negligence in losing his dog, and allowing it to 
range about a town so long without food. The Judge, however, 
held that losing a dog was not such negligence as would render 
the owner liable, and nonsuited the plaintiff, with costs.—* 


{We incline to the opinion that if the plantiff had sued for 
the dog’s trespass he might have recovered.—EDs. | 


BIRMINGHAM FLYING 


I ruinx that I can solve the mystery of the origin of these 
Tumblers, professed by the Birmingham fanciers, or flyers of 
these Pigeons, to be unknown to them. 

My conjecture is that the common Antwerp Pigeon, not the 
Antwerp Carrier, a grizzled or strawberry-feathered bird with 
pearl eyes and not unlike the Tumbler in form, is one ancestor 
in a cross with the Earopean Tumbler as the other ancestor of 
these Pigeons, and improved by another and third ancestral 
eross with the English Tumbler for symmetrical specimens. 
Thus we have the Antwerp’s powers of flight (notorious), the 
muffed leg of the European Tumbler, and the symmetry of the 
English Tumbler, more or less developed in these Birmingham 
Tumbler Pigeons. I found my conjecture upon the fact of the 
Antwerp, in Lancashire called ‘“‘ White Hye” from its wild 
white eye, being a superb flying bird over home. Indeed the 
Laneashire Pigeon-race flyers use a cross of the White Eye 
and Dragoon for their sport. But the pure White Hye is kept 
in crews for high flying, and soars into the clouds and flies 
in circles almost invisible for one, two, or three hours, over 
home consecutively. If confined too long without a fly, these 
‘White Eyes are apt (as did a crew the other day not half a 
dozen miles from me) to soar out of sight and disappear for 
sver—maybe go back, from some innate instinct, to the bome 
of their fathers, the city of Antwerp, for, save a few stragglers, 


MUFFED TUMBLERS.: 


they are heard of no more. Such is the White Eye, the blood 
of which I surmise to be in the Tumblers under notice. Tum- 
blers the Birmingham birds are and something more, being, 
I should say, Anglo-Hybrid-Antwerp Flying Tumblers, a desig- 


nation they need not shame to own in their exemplification of 
the characteristics implied. 


As matter appropriate to our subject I will relate an anec- 
dote of the Antwerp Carrier Pigeon. A calico printer, who 
spent some time in Belgium, brought a few pairs of these birds 
to his home in England near Manchester, and kept them in 
confinement until they had bred him a young stock, for cer- 
tainty, as he thought, of settling old and young birds safely. 
Conceive his surprise when, the first time the old birds rose 
into the air, they darted away regardless of the young birds 
behind, which alone remained, and, as he concluded, were lost. 
Bat lost they were not, for they flew home into Belgium, and 


this after a sojourn of twelve months and one breeding season 
in England! 


_The same person gave a pair of the young birds (the young 
birds I mentioned) to a friend, who transported them to his 
own loft, some twenty-five miles distant, and the first flight— 
they had never flown before—made by these young Antwerp 
Carriers was to the place of their birth, over several towns and 
a range of hills of no inconsiderable height. So is demonstrated 
the instinctive homing faculty of the Antwerp Carrier, for these 
very birds were not trained birds, and yet the old birds crossed 
a great part of England and the Channel into Belgium, and 
their young nestlings traversed twenty miles or more of inland 
route safely, the face of the earth in each instance being 
unknown to old and young birds alike.—RrEADER. 


COLCHESTER POULTRY SHOW. 


Tuts took place on the 1st and 2nd inst., and consisted of nearly 
three hundred entries of poultry, and upwards of one hundred entries 
of Pigeons, besides Rabbits. The awards were as follows :— 


DorkixGs.—Coloured.—l, Henry Lingwood, Barking, Needham Market. 2, F- 
Parlett, Great Baddow. he, Mrs. G. Meek, Balcombe; J. Norman; W. Tippler; 
Roxwell, Chelmsford; J. Frost; Mrs. G. Clarke, Long Sutton. c,J. Norman; 
J. Frost, Parham. White.—l and 2, J. Robinson, Garstang. c, Rey. F. Tearle, 
Gazeley Vicarage, Newmarket. 

Cocxinxs.—Cinnamon and Buff.—l and c, Henry Lingwood. 2,J. K. Fowler, 
Aylesbury. Any other Variety —l, T. Sharpe, Ackworth, Pontefract (Par- 
tridge). 2, Horace Lingwood, Creeting, Needham Market (Partridge). c, J. H. 
Dawes, Moseley Hall, Birmingham; Horace Lingwood (Partridge). 

BranMas.—Dark.—1, Horace Lingwood. 2 and c, H. Dowsett. Pleshey, 
Chelmsford. he, W. Burrows, Diss, Norfolk; Horace Lingwood. Light—1, H. 
Dowsett. Mrs. A. F. Barnett, Erdington. 

SpanisH.—l, Nichols & Howard, Camberwell. 2, F. James, Peckham Rye. 
he, E, W. Shalford, Maidstone; W. Saunders, Lowestoft. 

FRENCH (Any variety).—1, W. Burrows, Diss (La Fléche). 2, Mrs. J. Cross, 
Appleby Vicarage, Brigg (Créve-Cceur). hc, W. Boutcher, Notting Hill (Creve- 
Coeur); Mrs. E. Williams, Henllys, Berriew (Créve-Cceur); W. Tippler (Houdans 
and Creve-Ceeur); W. Dring, Faversham (Créve-Ceeur), c, J. K. Fowler; A. 
H. Paley, Dedham (Houdan); W. Dring (Houdans). 

Game.—Black-breasted and other Reds.—1 and 2, S. Matthew, Stowmarket. 
c, G. Barton, Wymondham; H. BE. Martin, Sculthorpe, Fakenham; R. Hull. 
Duckwing and other Greys and Blues.—1 and 2, S. Matthew. ¢, J. H. Salter, 
Tolleshunt D’Arcy, Kelvedon. Any other Variety.—l and 2, S. Matthew (Piles). 
he, J. H. Salter (Piles). c, J.J. Hazel, Great Bromley, Manningtree. : 

Hampurcus.—Gold-spangled.—l, L. Wren, Lowestoft. 2, Mrs. Pattisson, 
Maldon. Silver-spangled.—1, H. Pickles, jun., Earby. 2, H. M. Maynard, 
Holmewood, Ryde. c, Rey. F. Tearle; C. Turner; Mrs. Pattisson. Gold- 
pencilled—\ and c, H. Pickles, jun. 2, W. Tickner. Silver-pencilled.—l and 
2, H. Pickles, jun. 

PonanDs (Any variety).—1, W. K. Patrick, West Winch, Lynn (Golden). 2, J. 
Hinton, Warminster (Silver). hc, H. Pickles, jun. (Silver); W_K. Patrick 
See c, W. K. Patrick (Golden); W. J. Woodhouse, West Winch, Lynn 

Silver). 

{ GauE Bantams.—Black-breasted and other Reds.—1, W. B. Jeffries, Ipswich. 
2, E. Cambridge, Cotham. hc, W. B. Jeffries; H. L. Cocksedge, Bury St. 
Edmunds; Nichols & Howard. Any other Variety.—l, Rey. F. Cooper pou 
wing). 2, Hon. E. Gifford, Ampney Park, Cirencester (Duckwing). he, R. 
Swift. Any variety except Game.—ti, M. Leno, Markyate Street (Laced). 2, E. 
Cambridge (Black). hc, Rey. F. Tearle (White); H. M. Maynard (Black); S. 
and R. Ashton, Mottram. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—l, Rey. A. G. Brooke, Shrawardine (Malay). 2, W. 
Wildey, Cosham (Andalusian). Extra3, W. Massey, Spalding (White Leghorn). 

Ducks. —Rouen.—1 and 2, J. K. Fowler. c, Mrs. E. Wheatley, Ingatestone. 
Aylesbury.—1 and 2, J. K. Fowler. he, Mrs. Pattisson; H. S. Wiggins, Stow- 
market; W. Tippler. Any other Variety.—l and 2, M. Leno (Viduata Whistling 
Duck and Mandarin). c,S.& R. Ashton. 

SELLING Crass.—l, H. Dowsett (Brahma). 2, J. Mansell, Longton, Stafford- 
shire (Spanish). hc, J. F. Sillietoe, Wolverhampton (Spanish); H. H. Thomp- 
son, Coleshill, Farringdon (Gold-pencilled Hamburgh); S. Felgate, Langham, 
Essex (White Cochins). c, G. Barton (Brown-breasted Red Game) (2); H. M. 
Maynard (Light Brahma); H. S. Wiggins (Coloured Dorking): J. Norman 
(colores Doreng); E. W, Shalford (Black Spanish); W.J. Woodhouse (Black 
Red Game). 

SELLING CuAss.—l, J. Frost (Coloured Dorking). 2, H. Dowsett (Brahma). 
he, T. Rogers, Walsall; J. Norman (Coloured Dorking) (2); E. W. Shalford 
(Black Spanish) (2); D. C. Campbell, M.D., Brentwood (Dark Brahma). c¢, C. 
Turner, Great Baddow (Silver-Grey Dorking). 

PIGEONS. . 

Carrrers.—l, H. Yardley, Birmingham. 2, F. W. Metcalfe, Cambridge. 

PoutTErs.—l, P. H. Jones, Fulham. 2, Withheld. 

TUMBLE Almond.—1, 2, he, and c, J. Ford, Monkwell St., London. Any 
other Variety, Short-faced.—1 and c, J. Ford. 2, P. H. Jones (Kite). 

Owts.—1 and he, P. H. Jones. 2, H. Yardley. 

PanvTar.s.—l, H. M. Maynard. 2, P.H. Jones. he, H. Yardley. 

Jaconins.—l, W. E. Easten, Hull. 2, R. Richardson, Beverley. 

Turbits.—l, R. W. hardson. 2, G.H. Gregory, Taunton. /ic, H. Yardley. 
c, T. Holmes, Lower Sydenham. 

Bagrss.—l, H. M. Maynard. 2 and he, H. Yardley. c, P. H. Jones. 


March 9, 1871. ] 


Nuns.—l, H. Yardley. 2, W. E. Easten. 


TRUMPETERS.—1, P. H. Jones. 2. EB. Sheerman, Springfield, Chelmsford. 
MaGrres.—l, H. ley. 2, P. H. Jones. 

DRAGOO J. Mitchell. 2, A. W. Wren, Lowestoft. 

ARCHAN 1, J. Bowes. 2, H. Yardley. 


S (Best pen of tour working).—1, H. Yardley. 2, H. Laver. 

Any oTHER Variery.—l, S. A. Wyllie, East Moulsey (Runts). 2, H. Laver, 
Colchester (Silver Runts). he, Hon. Mrs. Paget, Scole (Starlings and Isabels). 
¢, J. Mitchell (Tambourettes); J. ¥. Bishop (Porcelains). 

SELLING CLAss.—l, C. Norman (Black Trumpeter). 2, H.S. Wiggins (Pouters). 
he. L. Wren (Black Carriers). c, Hon. Mrs. Paget (Black Fantails and Star- 
lings); H. Yardley; W. Bulmer, Spalding (Barbs); E.Sheerman (Trumpeters). 


RABBITS. 

Lop-rarep (Any variety).—1 and 2, C. Gravil, jun., Thorne. (Whole class 
highly commended), 

HiMALayan.—1, W. Wood, Sible Hedingham. 2, 8. G. Hudson, Hull. 

AnGora.—l, D. P. Gooding. 2, J. Boyle, jun., Blackburn. he, C. King, St. 
John’s Wood (2). 

ANY OTHER VaRtETy.—1, J. Allen, Ampthill (Silver-Grey). 2, S. G. Hudson 
(Silver-Grey). he, J. R. Lunn, Hull (Silver-Grey). c,J. Boyle, jun. (Silver-Grey) ; 
S, G. Hudson (Silver-Grey). 


JupGes.—Mr..W. B. Tegetmeier and Mr. F. Esquilant. 


THE BIRMINGHAM PHILOPERISTERON 
SOCIETY. 


Tus was the sixth annual Show of the above Society, and as all its 
members are ardent breeders of fancy Pigeons, it has gradually pro- 
-grvessed until very few shows can boast of classes so regularly well 
filled with first-rate specimens as this usually has. As a consequence, 
the competition is very close, and the decisions of the Judges are 
always very closely scanned. We may add that, fora spring exhibition, 
the entry of so many first-rate birds was almost without parallel. 

The Carrier classes were, on the whole, the best the Committee has 
ever obtained, particularly the birds of last year’s breeding. Mr. 
While took the first position with a most promising Dun, which, if 
mo accident arise, will doubtless show to very great advantage in 
future years. The Black hen shown by Mr. F. Smith is not less 
worthy of especial mention. This gentleman took a silver cup with a 
grand pair of Barbs, the only entry in the class, and we strongly suspect 
the ‘‘ utter hopelessness of winning’? was the cause of so limited an 
entry, as exhibitors appear well to know who is in possession of first- 
class birds. Mr. Harry Adams, of Beverley, sent two pairs of Almonds 
that would be an honour to any breeder ; tho first pen were silyer-cup 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


winners, but the second-prize pen would have been an uncomfortably | 


close run had the two not belonged to the same breeder. Everyone 
admired them. Dragoons and Antwerps were exceedingly good, and 
the display of Toy Pigeons was better than usual, several very choice 
newly-imported varieties being shown. It was remarkable that al- 
‘though the class for Fantails was by no means small, the generality 
of the birds were sadly rubbed in feather. 


Carrrers.— Young Birds.—Black or Dun.—l, J. F. While. 2, 4, and c, G. F. 
Whitehouse, King’s Heath, Birmingham. 38 and 5, W. H. Mitchell, Moseley. 
he, J. EF. While; G. F. Whitehouse ; J. Linnett, jun., Coventry ; W. H. Mitchell. 
Any other Colour.—l, J. Watts, King’s Heath. ¥%, Withheld. 

Carriers.—Black.—Cocks.—1, F. Smith, Selly Oak, Birmingham. 2, G. F. 
Whitehouse. 8, W. H. Mitchell. c, T. Robson, Penkridge. Hens.—1 and Cup, 
F. Smith. 2,G. F. Whitehouse. 8 and he, W. H. Mitchell. 

CarrreRs.—Dun —Cocks.—1, G. F. Whitehouse. 2, J. F. While. he, W. H. 
Mitchell. Hens.—l1,G. F. Whitehouse. 2,J. Watts. c, W. H. Mitchell. 

CarriERs.—Any other Colour.—Hens.—}, J. Watts. 2, Withheld. 

Pouters.--Curks.—l and 2, G. Sturgess. 3, J. Watts. Hens.—l and 2, G. 
Sturgess. 3,J. Watts — 

Fanraits.—l, J. F. While. 2, J. W. Edge, Birmingham. 8,H.Adams. 4 and 
‘he, Mrs. A. F. Barnett; Erdington. 

ALMoNDS.—1, 2, and Cup, H. Adams, Beverley. 

Baups anD BEARDS.—1. J. W. Edge. 2,no competition. 

SHORT-FACED (Any other variety).—l, H. Adams. he, G. Sturgess. 

JACOBINS.—1 and 2, J. W. Edge. 

TRUMPETERS.—1 and 2, T. Robson. 

Owxs.—Foreign.—l, J. Watts. he, G. F. Whitehouse. 
Edge. 2,J. Watts. 8, Mrs. A. F. Barnett. 

Tursirs.—l, J. W.Edge. 2 and 3, T. Robson. 

Banrss.—l and Cup, F. Smith. 2, no competition. 

Nons.—1, J. Watts. 2,J.R. Bill, Birmingham. 

DraGoons.—Blue.—l, J. Watts. 2, No competition. Any other colowr.— 
1 and he, J. Watts. 2, J. Coleman. single Birds.—Any colowr.—l, W. H. 
Mitchell. 2,G. F. Whitehouse. 3, J. Coleman. 4, J. Morris. he,J. Coleman, 
West Bromwich (2); G. F. Whitehouse; J. Morris; W. H. Mitchell. 

Macprrs.—l, G. F. Whitehouse. 2, I. Robson. 

ANDWERPS.—1, J. EK. Cleveland. 2,W.H. Mitchell. Cocks.—1, W.H. Mitchell; 
2, J. Watts. he, J. E. Cleveland. 

SwaLtows.—1 and 2, J. Watts. 

ANY OTHER Variety.—l, 2, and Cup, W. Bankes. 3, J. Watts. 

SINGLE Brrps (Fancy).—l and3, H. Adams. 2and jc, J. Watts. 4, J. Morris. 

TuMBLERS (Flying).—Badges (Black).—1, J. Massey, Lozells, Birmingham. 
{(Blue).—1, J. W. Edge. Mottles—1, J. Massey. Single Birds (Any variety).— 
1,J. Massey. 2and3,J. W. Edge. 

RospWINGS aND REDBREASTS.—1 and 2, J. Massey. 


Mr. Edward Hewitt, of Sparkbrook, and Mr. Yardley, of Birming- 
ham, judged all the strictly fancy varieties, and Mr. Walthew, of Bir- 
mingham, the flying Pigeons. 


English—1, J. W. 


LEEDS ROYAL PARK BIRD SHOW. 


A very aristocratic title certainly for a bird show, but a very happy 
one, as may be fully realised by a visit to the grand conservatory in 
the Park, containing so many beautiful plants and flowers, and so 
many fine birds of all classes, breeds, and colours, from the small 
Waxbills, Diamond and Coral-necked Sparrows, Indigo Blue-birds, 
Jaya Sparrows, Loye-birds, and Parakeets, to the larger kinds—yiz., 
King Parrots, Grey and other Parrots, Cockatoos, and Great Macaws. 
Another visit to the above interesting place, situated about a mile and 


189 


a, quarter from Brigeate in Leeds, increased one’s familiarity with the 
Royal Park, with its finely laid-out walks, terraces, and grounds, the 
conservatory, the ponds containing gold and silver fish, the fountains, 
&e. Mr. Thomas Clapham, the Managing Director, devotes much 
time and attention to making the park what it is intended to be—a 
pleasant resort and place of recreation for the people. 

The third annual Show opened in the large conservatory on the 
4th inst. and will close to-day. The judging began on Friday morn- 
ing, which was very foggy, but as the day advanced the sun shone with 
much power on the conservatory. The large tent or awning used at 
the recent Crystal Palace Show would have been of great service in 
screening the birds from the sun’s rays, which fell with ful] force on 
the Norwich Canaries, the judging of which was delayed for the pur- 
pose of bringing home to the eyesight of the Judge the pure and natural 
colours of several of them as they ought to have been, not as some of 
them were. The publicity given to the ‘‘ coloured specimens” at the 
late Crystal Palace Show, and the dastardly anonymous letter, bearing 
a Nottingham postmark, received by one of the Judges some time since, 
setting forth in elegant expressions the ‘‘ignorance of the Judges,” 
did not deter the deep-dyed specimens (Norwich, and a Golden-spangled 
Lizard) from being shown and detected. Besides a host of fine-bred | 
Canaries exhibited by breeders from various and distant parts of Eng- 
land, representing all the well-known breeds excepting the Scotch 
fancy, there was a splendid collection of British and foreign biras. 
The following are the awards :— 

Norwicu.—Clear Yellow.—1, 8, and he, Moore & Wynn, Northampton. 2, T. 
Irons, Northampton. Clear Buff—ti, 2, and 8, Moore & Wynn. vhe, Bexon 
Gall Bennett, Derby. he, A. Webster, jun., Kirkstall; G. Tuckwood, Notting- 

am. 

Norwicu.—Marked or Variegated Yellow—1, R. Hawman, Middlesbrough. 
2and8, Moore & Wynn. he, Moore & Wynn; J. Close, Derby. c, H. N. Fos- 
brooke, Leeds. Marked or Variegated Buf.—l and2, Moore & Wynn. 3, W. 
Heap, Bradford. hc, Bexon & Bennett: G. Tuckwood; Moore & Wynn. 

Norwica.—Ticked or Unevenly-marked Yellow.—2 and 3, Moore & Wynn. 
Ticked or Unevenly-marked Buj—1 and 2, Moore & Wynn. vhe, T. Irons; G. 
Tuckwood. 

Norwicu.— Crested Yellow.—l, R. Hawman. 2 and vhe, Moore & Wynn. 
Cretied Buf.—1 and 2, Moore & Wynn. vihc, H. N. Fosbrooke. he, Bexon and 

ennett. 

BEician.—Clear Yellow.—l, J. Close. 2, P. Rawnsley, Lidget Green, Brad- 
ford. vhe, J.N. Harrison. Clear Buff.—l, J. Close. 2, P. Rawnsley. Varie- 
gated or Ticked Yellow.—1, P. Rawnsley. 2, J. Close. 

Lonpon Fancy.—Jonque.—l and 2, C. Clark, Sutton, Surrey. Mealy.—1, T.E. 


Foster. 2, C. Clark. 

Lizarp.—Golden-spangled. —1, J. N. Harrison, Belper. 2, G. Tuckwood. 
8, Stevens & Burton, Middlesbrough. vhe, P. Rawnsley. Silver-spangled.— - 
1, J. N. Harrison.. 2, Stevens & Hurton. 3, G@. Tuckwood. c, W. Heap. 


Crnnamon.—Jonque.—1 and 2, T. Trons. vhc, Moore & Wynn; J. Spence; G. 
Cox, Northampton. Bugf—l and vhe, T. Irons. 2, Moore & Wynn. Marked or 
Variegated (irrespective of Colour).—l, R. Hawman. 2, J. H. Hadland, Wal- 
lington. he, Moore & Wynn. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—1, Fairclough & Howe, Middlesbrough. 2, W. Heap, 
pber nth 8, Stevens & Burton. vhc, Moore & Wynn; R. R. Hammond, Brad- 
‘ord. 0 

GoLDFINCE MuLE.—Variegated Yellow.—l, Stevens & Burton. 2, W. Chesney, 
Rudneas, Goole. 3, W. L. Chapman, Northampton. vhe, P. Rawnsley. Varie- 
gated Buff—1, Fairclough & Howe. 2 and 3, W. Barnes, Cannon St., London. 
vhe, W. Barnes; 2. Rawnsley. lic, W. L. Chapman 

GoLprinch MuLE.— Dark Jonque.—1, W. Heap. 2, Stevens & Burton. 
vhe, T. B. Fosbrooke, Leeds; Moore & Wynn; W. Smith, Birmingham; G,. Cox. 
Dark Mealy.—i, W. mis Chapman. 2, W.Smith. vic, W. Heap. A 

GOLDFINCH MULES (Six in one cage).—2, W. Heap. 3, E. W. Lulham, Brighton. 

LINNET MULE.—1, J. Spence, Sunderland. 2,W.Heap. vic, W. B. Burniston, 
Middlesbrough. . 

BULLFINcH.—1l, W. Heap. vhc, A. Webster, jun.; G. Cox. he, W. Smith. 

e GoLprinon. —1, W. Smith. vhe, J. N. Harrison; Fairclough & Howe; J. 

pence. i i 

Linnet.—l, J. Spence. vhe, A. Webster, jun.; J. N. Harrison; W. E. Burnis- 
ton; Fairclough & Howe. 

SkyLarx.—l, T. Hannan, Leeds, 

Rosin.—!, G. Cox. 

Buacxpirp—1, A. Webster, jun. 

StarLina.—tl, Royal Park Company. 

British Brrps (Any other variety).—l, A. Webster, jun. “ 

BirDs OF PassaGE AND MicraTory Birps.—Blackcap.—J. Bem. jun., Upper 
Wortley, Leeds. Siskin or Aberdevine.—l, A. Webster, jun. British Birds 
(six in one cage).—1, T. E. Fosbrooke. 


FOREIGN BIRDS. 

Cockatoe.—Lemon or Orange-crested.—l, Royal Park Company (2). 
beater or Rose-breasted.—l, E. Foster, M.D. 

Parrots (Grey).—!, Royal Park Company. 

Lover Birps.—l, W. Brownridge, Leeds. 

Parakents.—Australian Grass.—l, Royal Park Company. 
Brownridge. xs 

SMALL Parrots oR PaRakEETS (Any other variety).—1l, Royal Park Company. 

CocKkETEALS.—1, Royal Park Company. 

Lory (Any variety).—1, Royal Park Company. 

Sparrows.—Diamond.—l, Royal Park Company. 
Park Company. Java.—l, A. Webster, jun. 

NIGFTINGALES (Virginian).—1l, Royal Park Company. 

Carpinats.—l, Royal Park Company. 

Foreign Brrps ‘Any other variety).—l, Royal Park Company (Blue or 
Indigo and Macays). 


Juper.—Mr. George J. Barnesby, Derby. 


Lead- 


Rosehill—i, W- 


Coral-necked.— 1, Royal 


BAILDON ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S SHOW. 


Tuts was held on the 24th and 25th of February. The thanks of the 
Committee and visitors are due to the ladies of Baildon for so taste- 
fully decorating the room. Messrs. Garnett and Fawcett, Hon. Secre- 
taries, with their assistants, paid the best attention to the specimens 
sent for exhibition, and a better prize-list is promised for another sea- 
son. To their praise be it said, they despatched the catalogues to 
exhibitors promptly. . 

The first and second-prize Yellow Belgians were very good, but the 
second too rough and coarse in the feather. The first-prize Buff 
Belgian was very beautiful, and was closely followed by other good 


190 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. { March 9, 1871. 


birds. The Jonque and Mealy Norwich were not up to the standard 
but better than have been shown before. The first-prize bird in 
the Ticked or Variegated Class is celebrated. The Clear-crested Coppy 
were really first rate ; the first-prize bird was a splendid Yellow, and 
the second not far behind. In Dark or Grey-crested, the first and third 
were really good birds, the second-prize going to a good Dark-crested 
Coppy. Clear Yorkshire were of the very best, and were all highly 
commended. In Eyenly-marked Yellow Canaries, the first was a fault- 
less bird. In Evenly-marked Butts, the first-prize bird was very truly 
marked on the eyes, wings, and tail, and the tail feathers were its 
own! The prize Cinnamons were a very fair lot. In Gold or Silver- 
spangled Lizards, the first bird was a splendid Silver. In Evenly- 
marked Goldfinch Mules, the first-prize bird, Buff, distanced all shown. 
In the Selling Class for the township of Baildon only, there were 
many good and cheap birds, and they changed owners very quickly ; 
Dark Mules only were scarce. The third-prize bird was good, but 
pied on the breast. In Any other Variety of Mules, a Linnet Mule 
was first, and the second prize was taken by a Bullfinch and Goldfinch 
Mule. The Goldfinches would have been thought a nice lot, providing 
the first-prize bird had not been there; he put them all completely in 
the shade. Linnets were gooa. In the class for Any other Variety of 
British Birds, a really splendid Mountain Finch won easily. 
Brerteun.—Clear Yellow.—1, J. Ellis, Baildon. 
Town, Halifax. 3, W.Shackleton, Ilkley. Clear Buff.—l,H. Greenwood. 2,W. 
Shackleton. 3, J. N. Harrison, Belper. ~ 
Norwicu —Clear Jonque.—1, Moore & Wynn, Northampton. 


2, H. Greenwood, Booth 


2, J. Cockshott, 


Ringley. 3, G. Midgley, Bocking. Clear Bujf.—1 and 2, Moore & Wynn. 3, W. 
Nowell, Baildon. Ticked.—l, R. Hawman, Middlesbrough. 2 and 3, Moore 
and Wynn. 


CLEAR CRESTED.—Coppy, Buff or Yellow.—1, W. Shackleton. 2, Hutton and 
Faweett. 3, J. Fawcett, Baildon. 

CrEestTED.—Dark or Grey.—l and 3, Moore & Wynn. 

YorisHirn.—Clear Yellow.—l, W. Shackleton. 2, T. Pimperton, Baildon. 
3, Hutton & Faweett. Clear Bujff.—1, Hutton & Fawcett. 2,J.Boddy, Baildon. 
» Fairclough & Howe. 


EVENLY-MARKED.—Yellow.—1, Stephens & Burton, Middlesbrough. 2, R. 
Hawman. 8, Hutton & Fawcett. Bugf.—i, H. Greenwood. 2, Stephens and 
Burton. 3, J.N. Harrison. 

Lizarp.—Golden or Silver-spangled.—1, J. N. Harrison. 2, Stephens and 
Burton. 3, R. Hawman. 

Crnnamon.—Buf or Yellow—l, Moore & Wynn. 8, J. 
Spence, Sunderland. 

GoLpFINCH MuLE.—Lvenly-markead Buff or Yellow.—l, W. & C. Burniston, 
Middlesbrough. 2and 3, E. Stansfield. Dark, Buff or Yellow.—l, Stephens and 
Burton. 2,Moore & Wynn. 38, E. Stansfield. Any other Variety of Mules — 
1,J. Spence. 2,5. Stansfield. 8, W. & C. Burniston. 

SELLING Cuass (Local).—1l and 2, Hutton & Faweett. 3, J. Ellis. 

GoLpFiNncH.—1, J. Cockshott. 2,J.Spence. 3, N. Whitaker, Baildon. 

Linnet.—1, W. & C. Burniston. 2, A. Webster, Kirkstall, Leeds. 3, Fair- 
clough & Howe. 

ANY OTHER BritisH Birp.—l, A. Webster. 2,J.Sharp. 8, A. Pimperton. 


2, W. Shackleton. 


2, J. N. Harrison. 


Picrons.—Carriers.—1, W. Lund, Shipley. 2 
Dragoons.—l, E. Beldon, Bradford. 2, T. Speight, Bradford. 3, W. Lund. 
Turbits—1 and 8, W. Lund. 2, H. G. Poole, Bradford. Antwerps.—l, W. Lund. 
2,I.Lancaster. 3, J. W. Collinson, Halifax. Owls.—l, W. C. Dawson. Otley. 
2, J. Thresh, Bradford. 8,H. C, Crowley, Bradford. Tumblers.—1, E. Beldon. 
2, W. Lund. 8, F. Bentley, Baildon. Any other Variety,—l, W. C. Dawson. 
2, EB. Beldon. 8, W. Lund. (Local).—l, 8. Jagger, Baildon. 2, W. Lancaster, 
Baildon. 3, W. Boocock, Baildon. 


JupcEs:— Canaries, éc.: Mr. J. Taylor, Middlesbrough-on-Tees. 
Pigeons: Mr. W. Cannan, Bradford. 


and 3, J. Watkins, Marden. 


MULES AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE BIRD SHOW. 


Turse were neither so numerous nor of such quality, cn the whole, 
as last year, when they numbered 141 as against 87 this year. The 
great ambition of Goldfinch-Canary and Linnet-Canary Mule-breeders 
is to produce an absolutely clear bird—z.e., one free from the taint of 
even a single dark feather—a task requiring the exercise of patience 
as great as that belonging to the patriarch whose possession of that 
attribute is proverbial ; indeed, it is averred by many that it is only: 
his lineal descendants who should attempt it. When it is taken into 
consideration that, to begin with, it is not easy to breed a Mule at all; 
that 75 per cent., or I might as well say 90 per cent., of those bred 
have not a single light-coloured feather other than the silly flue on 
the under part of the body; that not one in a hundred is decently 
marked; and not one in a thousand clear, or what is as difficult to 
obtain—exactly marked, having no foul feathers whatever, some idea 
of the magnitude of the lottery may be arrived at; and before invest- 
ing in a Goldfinch, which may or may not feel disposed to enter into 
matrimonial relations with the Canary, one may well consult his 
genealogical tree in search of a strain of ‘“‘staying” blood. There 
are instances on record in which a shilling lottery ticket has eventuated 
in a fortune, and there are traditions among the fancy, telling how 
this and that one bred a Clear Mule at the first attempt. One is as 
remarkable as the other, but those are not wanting who would attribute 
such good fortune to connection with a gentleman who is popularly 
represented as belonging to anything but a ‘‘Clear”’ class. 

Such being the difficulties of the case, and such the exceedingly 
small per-centage of Mules approximating to perfection, it is evident 
that the balance of power, as regards numbers, is in the hands of the 
Ticked and Uneyenly-marked classes, which, with the entirely Dark 
Mules, form the bulk of the population of this community of hybrids, 
including among them birds of extraordinary beauty, vastly superior 
in size, colour, deportment (there is a gentlemanly bearing about a 
well-bred Mule), and quality of plumage to many of those which base 
their claim to be ranked among the upper ten upon the cut of their 
coat, just as a ‘‘ Noah’s ark” covers many a Mule now-a-days. These 


outsiders—the irregularly-marked Mules, are virtually excluded from 
competition at the Palace, the prize list providing really for only two 
descriptions of birds apart from the dark self-coloured—that is, for 
Clear birds, or birds so nearly approaching that point as to require 
some skill to discover the defect; and secondly, for Evenly-marked 
birds, assuming the word “‘ Variegated” to have the same meaning as 
in Classes 3 and 4. This being so—and the few entries in the ‘‘ Clear 
for choice” classes (only half a dozen in all) support my view—I think 
that any bird approaching exactness in marking to stch a degree as to 
make it what is understood and recognised as an Kyenly-marked bird, 
is, if-found in this class, wrongly entered, and should be disqualified, 
no matter how slight its markings. Such a bird was 527 (J. Doel), 
first prize, one which never should, under any circumstances, have 
come into competition with what is meant by ‘** Clear for choice” birds. 
If absolutely Clear Mules be so rare that, for reasons financial or 
otherwise, it be not deemed expedient to give them a separate class, 
but to inelude among them those which are almost but not quite spot- 
less, justly giving precedence to the perfect bird, by all means let the 
line of demarcation be clearly drawn. 

In the Buff class there could be no mistake as to first and second, 
529 (Ashton) and 530 (Doel), being two gems without a flaw, but 529 
much the higher colour of the two. No. 531 (Doel), highly commended, 
was open to the same objection as 527, being pencilled on the eyes, 
besides having other marks. 

The stars in the Variegated Jonques were 540 (Ashton), first and 
cup, a rubicund-faced friend, the hero of many fights, with a blaze of 
colour such as one might expect to see in a bird addicted to cups, and 
548, 544 (Doel), second and third, both exquisite specimens. The 
commended birds also were well worthy their v.H.c., and specially 539, 
which, though defective in the pencilling of one eye, is my embodi- 
ment of an aristocratic Mule. It has a “‘ port anda presence.” 

Variegated Bufis were good, though not extraordinary, but the first 
prize, No. 549 (Fairclough & Howe), was a grand, lusty bird, and 
fairly ranks high among Mealy Mules of known reputation. One or 
two, however, will have to die before it can succeed to the crown. 
Mr. Doel’s birds here deserve special mention, all being young; 564, 
marked on eyes, wings, and tail, taking second, with a neat bird of 
Mr. Baxter’s, of Newcastle, third. The Rev. V. Ward showed two 
which, without much pretension to be considered Variegated Mules, 
were not to be excelled, if equalled, in condition by any birds in the 
class. 

In Dark Mules there was nothing calling for special comment, and 
Mr. Spence’s Brown Linnet Mule has been described in my notes or 
Darlington. : 

In the ‘Any other variety” class the first prize fell to 602 (W. 
Yeoman, Leeds), described as a hybrid between the Bullfinch and 
Canary. That it is Bullfinch and , there is apparently no doubt ; 
but in the absence of direct evidence of the fact I should hesitate te 
name the Canary as the other parent. It is more like Bullfinch and 
Chaffinch—an opinion which was entertained by a select committee of 
the cognoscenti, who sat upon it in solemn conclave assembled. Mr. 
Stansfield’s Bullfinch-Goldfinch was there, but not in all his glory, for 
610, a similar hybrid and much-improved bird, was close on its heels, 
the third honour very properly going to a Bullfinch-Linnet Mule, of 
which there were two shown, besides Goldfinch-Linnet, Goldfinch- 
Greenfinch, and other rarities. The groups I will pass, simply envy- 
ing Mr. Walter his three-prize “six Norwich,” and bestowing an 
extra word of praise on Mr. Doel’s six Goldfinch Mules, which were 
pictures of condition, as were the second six of Mr. Ashton’s.—W. A. 
BLAKSTON. 


UNITED KINGDOM RABBIT SOCIETY. 


I rnink Mr. Millington’s suggestion for establishing a “‘ United 
Kingdom Society ” would be the means of putting the question 
to the test, and the sooner it is commenced the better; but I 
would suggest the subscription be 2s. 6d. instead of Is., and 
that each member have the privilege of exhibiting one pen 
annually free of cost. 

It is essential for the well-being of sucha Society that all 
petty jealousies should be sunk, and that every variety of the 
fancy should be fairly represented. For my own part lam a 
Lop-eared breeder, but I can admire perfection in any class, 
and am prepared to give it its due reward. While writing on 
this subject I would remark that it has often occurred to me 
that a great mistake is made by most societies in awarding to 
the Lop-eared variety the best prize for length of ear irrespec- 
tive of every other property; for example, a Rabbit may be 
produced with tremendously long ears, may be hare-legged, 
blear-eyed, splay-footed, of very bad colour, ugly in form—in fact 
may be a ricketty sickly animal, and probably may die within 
2 month or two owing to excessive forcing. Now, to obviate 
this I would suggest that every Rabbit competing for the first 
prize should be not less than eighteen months old (about half 
the age of a healthy Rabbit), and that it should be well upon 
its legs, of good colour, and have a clear eye. Should this 
principle be adopted I am sure we should have a better supply 
of perfect Lops. 


oe hae 


— 


March 9, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 


191 


Should Mr. Millington prosecute his scheme I shall be glad 
to co-operate with him.—T. I. Inman, Hackney. 


A RABBIT FANCIER’S TROUBLES. 


Tenrerep four Lop-eared Rabbits and an Angora at the last Ports- 
mouth Show. Iwas up betimes on Monday morning seeing my pets 
made comfortable, and got them off as soon as possible to the railway 
station, paid 15s., and sent them off per passenger train. Judge of 
my feelings, on receiving a catalogue, at finding that my Rabbits were 
never mentioned, and that my friend in the fancy at Doncaster had 
taken the cups. Next morning a polite note from the Secretary very 
solemnly told me that my Rabbits were “too late, or else they would 
have done something.” What important words these, and how sooth- 
ing! but the greatest surprise of all was the addition that he received 
them on Tuesday evening. I may add thatI received them back about 
six o'clock on Saturday evening, very nearly lost with cold and hunger. 
Where has the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals its head 
quarters, as this seems a case for it? Now, a good deal of this trouble 
would be ayoided by such a club as Mr. Millington mentioned in a 
recent number. Are Rabbit fanciers to pack and send Rabbits off on 
Sunday? this will not do, at any rate not for me—I love that day too 
well. .Thus have I spent 30s. in railway fare, and 12s. 6d. entrance, 
all to no purpose, and simply because the Portsmouth Show opened on 
Tuesday instead of on Wednesday, as would haye been pointed out by 
the United Kingdom Rabbit Club ; and the other point this Club would 
rectify would be to enter the all-meaning words ‘too late” opposite 
those names which required it, and not lead the public to believe that 
our Doncaster friend with his two Rabbits had beat all comers, and 
especially my Rabbits, which beat his at Leeds.—G. H. Hirst. 


VENTILATION OF HIVES DURING WINTER. 


Tar “ Lananksuine Bre-xreren’’ states that he has found 
the plan of lowering the temperature of his hives by means of 
ventilation, prove very successful in preserving the lives of 
his bees during the prevalence of snow in soring. May I ask 
him to favour the readers of “our Journal” with a particular 
description of the process whereby this’ desirable result has 
been accomplished ? What kind of ventilator does he employ? 
and when is the best time to apply it? Ventilation has been 
greatly recommended by some high authorities, but a would-be 
instructor in a book recently published, if I remember rightly, 
pronounces the whole thing ‘‘a mistake.” That it can only be 
so when ill-timed, or tke process is faulty, is the opinion of 
most apiarians who have given it a fair trial. Messrs. Payne 
and Taylor paid great attention to the subject, and both concur 
in testifying that it is a valuable expedient for carrying off 
vapours in wooden boxes, which are liable, by becoming con- 
densed, to render the combs mouldy and offensive. I have 
had too little experience of the use of ventilators to warrant 
my saying much respecting their merits, but I saw an attempt 
made a few years ago to give practical expression to the idea 
thrown out by the ‘‘ Lanarxsuirn BEr-KEEPER.” 

In February, when the snow was on the ground, the bees of 
a common straw hive suddenly rushed out in great numbers to 
the open air. The loss of life, through their falling into the 
snow, was fearful, and to prevent further destruction of his 
property, the proprietor had recourse to the following plan. 
Procuring a thick piece of wood he cut a row of doorways in it, 
of a size just sufficient to prevent the egress of bees, and then 
Gitted it into the entrance. The plug at the top of the hive, 
which might be 1 inch in diameter, was next withdrawn, and a 
milk pan was inverted over the hole, both skep and pan being 
eovered with a thick coat of straw. This device was very suc- 
cessful in keeping the bees at home, but the cure was as bad 
as the disease, for the hive was ventilated to death. 
midst of plenty every bee perished; the community were un- 
able to bear up against the increased cold caused by a draught 
of air, which could only have been slight, passing up through 
the hive ; and when the plug a few days afterwards was with- 
drawn, the bee-master had the mortification of seeing nothing 
but lifeless clusters on the floorboard and between the divisions 
of the combs. Is it, then, safe or expedient to have recourse 
to ventilation at a time when, after a lengthened confinement, 
the loaded bees take steps for obtaining relief ?—R. S. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Booxs (WW. S.).—There is no book on Cochin-Chinas only. * The Poultry- 
Book for the Many ” contains relative directions for rearing them, notes 
on form, &c. It can be had from our office by post, if you enclose seven 
postage stamps with your address. (J. Hunt) —‘ House Dogs and Sport- 

mO6. Dogs.” Van Voorst, London. Only one edition. It is a small 
ume. 


smoye the drake from the Ducks. 


In the 


Crive-Caurs (Henwife).—The white deaf-ear is not.an important 
point in any way with a Créve-Ceur cock. It is, as in the case of a 
Dorking cock, immaterial. Many Créve-Cceurs have them remarkably 
developed at this time and during the spring. It is not desirable, and if 
we had to choose between two birds equal in every point save the differ- 
ence of the ear-lobe, we should take the bird without one. We never- 
theless repeat, it is not a disqualification. You may safely set the eggs. 

Houpans (4. C.)—The chickens hatched will take after both cocks ; 
some will have the small size, others the faulty plumage, both modified 
by the quality of the hens. What do you mean by faulty plumage? Do 
you mean coloured feathers? Straw-coloured are a simple disadvantage ; 
few cocks are without them. Red feathers disqualify. The birds bred 
from a Light Brahma hen running with a Dark cock will be of mixed 
plumage, probably white breasts, great predominance of white in the 
hackle, and black and white backs and saddles. They lose no valuable 
properties, but being cross-bred they are fit only for layers and ordinary 
farmyard fowls. We do not think they need be separated for more than 
a fortnight, or at most three weeks, for the purpose of changing the cock, 
before the eggs may be set as the produce of the new bird. What do you 
mean by the sandy tinge? A Dark Brahma cock has only a “ suspicion” 
of deep brown on the wing, and he is better without that. The Silver- 
Grey Dorkings are not better in Scotland than in England, but the 
majority of Scotch amateurs will not look on any feather as pure. We 
do not advise you to apply to any agent to buy or claim birds at a show. 
If you can go yourself, doso. If not, try to find a competent friend. If 
still unable, write to the Secretary of the Birmingham Show to claim for 
you prize birds of the breeds you require, if they are to be had ata 
price you must name. We name Birmingham because all the classes 
there are good. In smaller shows, although they may be good asa whole, 
yet some classes are mostly weak, and they might be those in which you 
were most interested. 

Fow1is in Rooms—Roap Grit (Nottingham).—We much fear you will 
do little good keeping fowls in rooms. The flooring will not suit. You 
ean obviate that by covering it some inches—8 or 4—with road grit. The 
latter is made up of the scrapings of a road and the trimmings of the 
side paths when the gutters are cleaned and the road made straight. 
This has the property of being always dry, and there are also among it 
many roots of grass, of which the fowls are fond. You will have to 
supply the fowls with sods of growing herbage daily, and with bricklayers’ 
rubbish. They would want no roosting place, as they are under cover, 
and will choose for themselves a sheltered sleeping place. If you will 
take this trouble you may keep them and set eggs. You could not rear 
chickens in suchap!‘ace. You could keep Brahmas, Cochins, Spanish, 
or Créye-Ceurs. 

Hen’s Lecs Become Coarse (A. W. J.).—Your hen has the recently 
imported malady which has been called the “poultry elephantiasis.” It 
is a tiresome disorder, and can only be treated by frequent lubrications 
with compound sulphur ointment. 

Draxe Cusine Hens (0. 4. G.).—We do not see why you should re- 
The eggs will probably be good through- 
out the laying, but there is nothing to gain by removing the drake. 

Dorxine Curcxens Dyine (0. C.).—If the chickens die of weakness 
there is something wrong in the feeding. When hatched early—in Feb- 
ruary or before—they should have strong beer to drink instead of water. 
Young chickens should have chopped egg, bread soaked in beer, bread 
and milk, coarse cooked meat chopped fine, curd, and dough made of 
ground oats if to be had; if not, of oatmeal. It is possible your chickens 
die from being infested with vermin. In this case your remedy will be 
to put heaps of dust and road sand close to the rip in which the hen is 
confined. Water strongly camphorated is an excellent thing for all 
poultry, and where that is used there is seldom any serious disease. Of 
course you keep the hens shut up in their rips till the chickens are six 
weeks old; if you do not, then do so, and feed as we have described. 
You ought then to rear nearly all your chickens. 1 

Foop For Ducks (J. C. W.).—We know no better food. You need not 
be uneasy at having no eggs; many people have none, especially where 
the Ducks are two or three years old. There is not a week lost, and you 
need not be uneasy though you have none for the next three weeks. 


Rovp (Henricus).—Roup is not so contagious as it used to be years ago. 
It is, nevertheless, a great plague and nuisance in a yard. Your remedies 
have not failed, as probabiy without them the birds wonld have died. 
Give them strongly camphorated water todrink. The offer of nine Silver- 
spangled Hamburghs for 50s. was tempting, as good birds are worth more. 
It does not, however, palliate the offence of sending diseased birds. 
These cheap lots generally have some fault, defect, or disease that makes 
their owners anxious to be rid of them. 

Tumour IN PuLLet (EZ. £. F.).—It may be the hen has a tumour, and 
if so it will be well to kill her at once. Such are common among old 
birds. But the same appearance would proceed from an egg-bound hen 
or pullet, and it frequently does so at this time of year. The cure is to 
pass a wing feather saturated with oil down the egg-passage till it reaches 
the egg, which will be laid at once after this assistance. Your fowls are 
well managed, and therefore profitable. Your Ducks and hens give an 
average of ninety-four eggs from each bird. We can only guess the value 
of your stock because we have not seen it, but we shoul@ not think 5s. 
each more than their value. It is probably less than many of them are 
worth; 

Farrentnc Dorxines (MM. W.).—Your poultry-woman does not under- 
stand her business. Fowls will keep in good fleshy condition if well fed 
while running about, but they will not fatten. They should be put in 
close confinement in a warm, semi-dark, and quiet place, such as is 
afforded by the outhouses of gentlemen’s premises. They may be peckers, 
and fed on a board three times a-day, or put in a coop and crammed. 
both cases they must have no liberty, and must be fed at daybreak. We 
advise you to buy Baily’s book on fowls, which gives full instructions, 
and devotes along chapter to the subject. The food should be oatmeal 
and milk; there should be no mixture of pollard with it. Hen Turkeys 
may be kept till they are four years old, but careful breeders generally 
change the cock every other year. The Cambridge and Norfolk are both 
very good ; the former are rather the larger. The same remark applies 
to Geese. They may be kept five or six years, but the gander should be 
changed. Seven Geese are too many for a gander, four are sufficient. 


Hern NESTING BuT NoT Layine (C@. J.).—Your hen, if not diseased, 
either does or willlay. Very many have not yet begun, and many are 


192 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ March 9, 1872. 


condemned now like yours; but she will yet prove ske has lost none of 
her valuable properties. 


CHICKENS DEAD IN THE SHELL (H. C.).—You did not lose your chick- 
ens because the inner membrane of the egg was so thick, but because 
you did not moisten the eggs. They should be wetted every day for ten 
days before they are hatched, otherwise the chickens cannot make their 
way out. When the hen is off sprinkle water over each till it is wet. 
The round shape of the egg indicates that the shell is not so strong as it 
should be. If the run is deficient in lime, throw down some bricklayers’ 
rubbish. They will hatch, but as such eggs are thin-shelled we should 
prefer to set perfectly formed ones. 


Bran As PouttRy Foop (Nemo).—We are quite aware that there is 
nourishment in bran, but as a poultry food itis worthless. The far larger 
portion passes through a fowl undigested. It helps to fill the bird’s crop, 
but sawdust would do that at less expense. Such a mixture as rice and 
bran is about the least nutritive diet fowls could be put upon. 


Ground Oats (Lemon Buff).—The sample you send is more like 
bruised than ground oats. They would mix as coarse as sawdust, whereas 
in properly ground oats the skin. which in this sample is whole, is ground 
so fine that the whole assumes the appearance of coarse flour, and mixes 
almost as well. Experiments are being tried to grind them near London. 
As soon as it is satisfactorily done we will communicate with our readers. 
The sample from “ J. S$. S. M.” is good. 


Cost or A Fowtr’s Krep.—Is there not some mistake in “E's.” state- 
ment, that he keeps his Brahma fowls for 1id. a-week each 2?—G. C. 

BLUE JAcoBINS.—Mr. A. Valabere, Rose Villa, Merton Road, Tooting: 
S.W., says that he can give “K.P.” useful information, having kept the 
variety many years. 

CARRIER PIGEONS (Carrier).—You will have found the needed in- 


formation in our “ Pigeon Book.” If you require further information on 
any point please to specify it. 


: | 
MatTcHinc Dracoons (IW. Torr).—We are no friends to crossing colours | 


when it can possibly be avoided, too much mischief has been done 
already in this way among fancy Pigeons; so we advise you to mate blue 
with blue, and the white with the silver, if you must. The fruits of a 
cross chiefly depend upon there haying been crossed blood in the birds 
before. Thus we have known two red Pouters produce blue young ones 
because blue blood was in the parents’ veins. If no crossed blood, the 


seat may be clear young of either colour, but more probably of patched 
colour. 


water. 


Canary’s Sxin Irrirarep (Norwood).—If the bird is suffering from 
the attacks of the red mites, dnst it well with flowers of sulphur, blowing 
this well into the feathers. Discontinue all stimulating diet, such as 
pees feed only on Canary seed, and give a plentiful supply of green 
ood. 

BULLFINCH AND Canary Mute (Bullfinch).—1 do not think the feat 
has ever been accomplished—that is, the prodnction of a Bullfinch- 
Canary Mule. The hen Bullfinch will enter into the most friendly rela- 
tions with the Canary, and make the most amorous overtures to him. I 
had one which would flirt for ever, and now have two which no doubt will 
be guilty of the same unmaidenly conduct. But my Canaries were very 
Josephs of virtue, and resisted all the blandishments of the syren. If 


‘“ BULLFINCH ” will send me his address, I will tell him more about it— 
W. A. BraksTon. 


Price orf BEEs (Abeille).—The value of bees varies very much in diffe- 
rent localities. A strong, well-provided stock may in the spring be con- 


sidered worth 20s. to 30s.,and an early swarm of pure Ligurians about | 


two guineas. 


FRUSTRATING HIVE-BREAKERS (A Subscriber) —The plan of alternately 
closing the entrances of your plundered and plundering hives may ulti- 
mately succeed in saving your assailed bees from destruction if continued 
until out-door collections begin to be made; but when once a hive has 
found out a weak neighbour and effected an entrance, it is liable to 


Bathe the damaged eye wattle with a mild solution of alum in } 


resume its predatory habits whenever a favourable opportunity occurs. | 


Where practicable, it is well to remove the freebooters or their victims to 
the distance of a mile fora few weeks. If you wish to try the effect of 
carbolic acid in frightening away corsairs, you have only to dip a feather 
in the liquid and wet the entrance of your weak stock all round, letting 
fall at the same time a drop or two of the acid on the landing. Should 
robbers persist in their attacks, keep up the odour by repeating the pro- 
cess as opportunity offers during the course of the day. It is desirable, 


also, to have the entrance narrowed to admit the passage of only two or 
three bees at a time. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CaMDEN, SQuaRE, London. 


Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Date. 9 A.M. In THE Day. 
sae Shade Tem-| Radiation 3 
1871. 26 Ra eC Direc-|Tem).| perature. |Temperature| § 
Bre : tion of |of soi) —— s 
March. |= 254 Wind. | at 1 ft. ja In) On )} © 
ma2s | Dry.| Wet Max.) Min.| Sun. Grass. 
Inches.| deg. | deg. deg. . | deg. In. 
We. 1 | 30.474 | 874 | 832 | S.E. | 41.8 | : aes 
Th. 2 | 30.404 | 38.4 | 37.0 S.E. 40.0 9.8 = 
Fri. 3 | 30.289 | 400 | 38.8 E. 39.6 6: — 
Sat. 4 | 80.059 | 41.0 | 404 E. 89.0 f = 
Sun. 5 | 30.038 | 48.0 | 46.0 S.E. 40.3 _ 
Mo. 6 | 29.666 | 52.0 | 47.3 S.E. 41.5 0.080 
Tu. 7 | 29.735 | 47.4 | 45.4 8. 42.2 262 0.067 
Means | 80.095 | 43.5 | 41.2 40.6 | 55.3 | 87.1 | S&S | 33.8 | 0.147 
REMARKS. 


1st.—A fine day but colder. 5 
2nd.—White frost in the morning, slight haze at night, but a fine day. 


| very heavy trade. 


8rd.—White frost in morning, but sunshine in the middle of the day. 
Lunar halo at night. 
4th.—White frost in morning, fine warm afternoon. 
5th.—Fine afternoon, very bright moonlight at night. 
6th.—_Fine morning, cloudy afternoon, oceasional showers in the eyen- 
ing, but very fine at nigbt. . 
7th.—Rather dull in the morning, but fine in afternoon, high wind at 
night, with sudden dip of the barometer. 
A fine week, temperature above the average, and daily range very con- 
siderable—e.g., 25.0° on 2ad, 31.4° on 3rd, and 29.0 on 4th.—G. J. Symons, 


METEOROLOGICAL REPORT FOR FIRST TEN DAYS OF 
JANUARY. 
TuHE following report is given with the view of rendering complete 
from the beginning the series of Meteorological Reports which com- 
menced at page 60. 


Date. 9 aust. Is THE Day. 
| ) Radiation 
Lhe G shade Tem- : 
is71. |22,3—=| Hysrome- | pirec-| Temp erature. | Lempera- | 4 
Eso) “ter. tion oflof Soi| Poe” ture. Z 
Jan 2283), | Wind. | at 1 ft. in On 
jase | Dry. Wet. | Max.| Min.| sun. grass 
deg In. 
We. 1 | | 33.0 = 
Th. 2 33.0 — 
Fri. 3 33.0 = 
Sat. 4 | 33.0 = 
Sun. 5 | 33.0 0.072 
Mo. 6 | 33.5 | 0.053 
br Vp $2.0 0.035. 
We. 8 | 33.0 = 
Th. 9} 32.5 | 0.035 
Fri. 10 | 32.5 | — 
Means | | 33.0 | 0.195, 
J 
REMARKS. 
1st.—Overcast, except in afternoon; calm day. 
2nd.—Dull unbroken cloud throughout ; very cold. 
8rd.—Overcast ; maximum temperature at 10 P.nr. 
4th.—Dull. : 
5th.—Overcast in morning and very cold, fine afterwards, and warmer 
at night. 


6th.—Fine morning; rain in afternoon; cloudy at night. 
7th.—Fine and warm in morning; showery afterwards. 
8th.—Moderately fine, with occasional slight snow showers. 
6th.—Overcast, with snow and sleet. 

10th.—Snow in early morning; cloudy throughout the day.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Marcz 8. 


We have had a fair attendance of buyers on the market days, and 
things generally have put on a better appearance. The trade with the 
west of England and the Channel Islands has much improved, and the 
report for spring produce is good. Good dessert Pears are now com- 
paratively scarce, and consist only of Easter Beurré and Beurré de Rance. 
Potatoes remain at last week’s quotations. Ordinary Apples are still a 


FRUIT. 

Eh CB) BE Gl & Bb. cb i. 

Apples............4 sieve 1 6 to3 0 5 ) 
bri y . 0 00 OO mee OO 
-lb. 0 0 00 60 10 9 
ushel 10 0 18 G 00 00 
00 00 Aah SO. 
00 00 6 
00 00 . 6 0 10 0 
Bie $0 00 00 
20 26 B ft) Oh 
00 00 - 00 00 
60 12 0 Ra OO) 
60 10 0 oo 160 
1o ¢0 hay Ee) 

VEGETABLES. 

S. do. 8. ¢ s.d. 8. a 
Artichokes..........d0z. 0 Oto0 0/| Leeks ............ bunch 0 4to0 0 
Asparagus .. 8100 7 0 10 0} Lettuce --doz. 10 2 0 
Beans, Kidney -P100 2 0 8 O| Mushrooms . - pottle 10 26 
Broad... 0 0 O OQ} Mustard&Cress..punnet 0 2 O 0 
20 30 - bushel 4 6 7 0 
ORO ee LarG O 04 08 
30 40 80 6 & 
10 20 Bey hy 
00 00 ee 
0 4 0 8| Potatoes. 20 40 
Re 30) Kidney. . 8 0 40 
1 6 2 0} Radishes.. ORG aL Oo 
830 60 09 16 
16 8a Wi 
00.00 20 30 
20 00 66 084 
Ce) Seon 67 '0 
0s 00 One ONG 
038 00 06 00 
80 50 00 00 


POULTRY MARKET.—Marcu 8. 


B.. dS. 1d. 8. d.  #& ds 
Large Fowls ........ 8 6to4 0 | Pigeons . - 1 Otol 3 
Smaller ditto . 8 0 8 6 | Rabbits . >| 2 & eG 
Chickens ... 2S et Wild ditto - 10) (Setar 
Ducks... 5) 70) “5; {Omivearesiecs: + 10” 0 eeROMaD 
7 6 § O | Guinea Fow! . 8 (Sais 
1 9 3 8 | Grouse”...... 0 0 8 O 


=_— 


March 16, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 193 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s | Clock | Day 
wctnl wets. MARCH 16-22, 1871. ture near London, |4§ years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets. | Age. | Pefore | of 
| Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. |m. h.| m. h.| m. h.| m. h.| Days. m. 38. 
16 | TH | Meeting of Royal and Linnean Societies. | 51.0 | 84. 42.5 14 13af6 | 4af6 | 22af4 | after. 25 8 51] 75 
17 |F | 520 | 825 | 423 | 18 |11 6/6 6] 5 5]/86 1] 26 8 34] 76 
is |S | 49.9 | 93.0 | 41.5 | 18 9 6| 8 6/88 5/51 2] 2 8 16| 77 
19 Sun | 4 Sunpay 1n LENT. | 50.9 | 83.0 | 41.9 15) ples Oeil OG: SHG bye’ 28 7 58 78 
20 M Meeting of Entomological Society, 7 P.M. | 51.1 | 88.8 | 42.5 17 DOO lds Gn 25n Onl LON a5 29. 7 40 79 
21 Tu Meeting of Zoological Society, 9 p.m. 50.7 | 82.5 | 41.6 19 SUN Gnltaye .en hase 16 llth oNG (1) 7 22 80 
22, Ww Royal Botanic Society’s Spring Show, 2p.m. 50.4 | 34.3 | 42.3 20 LG a4 oe Ga ROUNS es Ate 7) 1 7 4) 821 
| 


From observations taken near London during forty-three 
perature 33.8°. 
rain was 0.51 inch. 


years, the average day temperature of the week is 523°, and its night tem- 
The greatest heat was 58°, on the 2ist, 1846 and 1859; and the lowest cold 2°, on the 17th, 1855. The greatest fall of 


PRIZES FOR HYBRID AND CROSS-BRED 


PLANTS. 


WISH to call the attention of our horticul- 
tural friends, and especially those interested 
in the growth of a really scientific feeling in 
the Royal Horticultural Society, to a set of 
premiums offered for hybrid plants under a 
certain general condition or proviso—namely, 
that the plants exhibited shall be shown in a 
manner calculated to illustrate the phenomena 
of hybridism and cross-breeding. 

As it was obviously impossible to collect 
on one given day anything approaching to a 


and produce 


really high-class exhibition, it was thought that a special | 


and continuous series of exhibitions through a whole season 
would give the necessary facilities. 

In any gardening establishment, large or small, pro- 
fessional or private, the sowing, rearing, and flowering of 
seedlings, whether cross-bred or not, is a distinct pursuit, 
independent, as it were, of times and seasons. The sub- 
jects come into flower at all sorts of odd times, and have to 
be hunted for in odd corners. 
some uncomely though interesting—fruits, flowers, weeds ; 
branch and spray from the forest or shrubbery—these can- 
not be shown as you would show Geraniums or Azaleas, 
where the proper period of perfection for exhibition can be 
timed to a minute. 

A larger number of premiums than usual is also resorted 
to in order to take in the productions of those humble 
aspirants who, having more brains than means and appli- 


ances, or who have taken up one special line of work alone, | 


may yet bring forward small but important collections. 

The practice of crossing plants for amusement, curiosity, 
or commercial purposes, has now become so common that 
no gardener with any pretension to skill in his profession 
would own to ignorance of it as part of his craft: but the 
number of scientific observers in this direction has been, 
and the conclusions arrived at, fewer; even over these 
hangs a shadow of doubt and uncertainty. We want 
facts—facts accompanied by real evidence; the hybrid 
plant, with its existence as such rendered evident to our 
sight by the presence of its parents at the same time, is 
such a fact. There it stands assured to our senses a living 
syllogism. And so, if possible, we wish to have all subjects 
shown in company with the two parents thereof. 

That may be considered the main point. Of course, it 
will not always be possible to exhibit all three plants 
growing in so many pots. In such cases, one or even 
both parents may be shown as cut specimens. Nay, there 
are cases imaginable where neither parents nor offspring 
could be shown growing. Imagine, for instance, a small 
Oak tree with its two parents, venerable specimens of 
Quercus Cerris and pedunculata ! 

Iwill read presently a short list of imaginary subjects 
to explain what I mean by the following instructions to 
judges. Marks will be given in consideration of— 

Great botanical interest. 

Great horticultural interest. 

No. 520.—Vou. XX., NEw Sugies, 


Some showy and valuable, | 


Great horticultural merit. 

New and hitherto unattempted crosses. 

Difficult crosses. 

Memoranda in writing to accompany objects exhibited 
will carry much weight, especially if well written, and 
evincing careful observation. 

The above remarks were read by me at the last Wednes- 
day meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society, when I 
observed that it would be necessary to consult with one or 
two competent authorities upon certain knotty points before 
publishing in full the conditions under which we desired 
the exhibition to be carried on. 

Our original intention was that the exhibition should be 
a free and unrestricted one, admitting alike old and new 
plants, whether raised by the exhibitor or not, preferring, 
however, those raised by himself. The friends, however, 
whom I consulted—namely, our two Superintendents and 
several men of high standing in the profession, urged the 
exclusion of plants shown previously, and of such as were 
not raised by the exhibitor. These principles, if strictly 
carried out, would, I think, narrow prejudicially a wide field, 
and exclude a multitude of interesting objects. The follow- 
ing modifying rule will, I believe, meet the case, which is 
certainly one of some difficulty :—No plant to be exhibited 
without the consent of the raiser. This will obviate any 
clashing of interests, as in the case of one man exhibiting 
and profiting by the valuable productions of another. 

It must be remembered that the premium is for a purely 
scientific object, less regard being had, upon the whole, to 
the intrinsic value of the objects than to their bearing upon 
a certain definite subject—that of hybridism and cross- 
breeding. It is to be hoped that it will be met in a like 
spirit, and will be looked upon and forwarded as an attempt 
in aid of the true interests of both the science and art of 
horticulture. 

I conclude by expressing a hope that this may be the 
forerunner of a series of premiums to be held in future 
years for special scientific objects, and that the Fellows in 
general, both private and professional, will come to the 
aid of their Council in raising their Society to the position 
it once held, and might hold again, as the fountain of 
horticultural science. 

The following imaginary, or rather suggestive, list was 
drawn up with the view of explaining some of the foregoing 
remarks as to the nature of the objects to be exhibited. 

OBJECTS OF BOTANICAL INTEREST. 
Tsia, Sparaxis, and Tritonia crossed | Meconopsis with Papaver. 

with each other. Tigridia with Phalocallis. 
Primrose with Cowslip. Corbularia with Narcissus. 
Elisena with Ismene. Conyolvulus, Calystegia, Ipomea, 
Chelone with Pentstemon. and Pharbitis with each other. 

All these crosses if effected would assist botanical science 
by the determination of affinities. 


OBJECTS OF FLORICULTURAL INTEREST. 


Tulipa sylvestris, oculus-solis, suaveolens (Van Thol), and the early 
Tulips, crossed with each other, and with the best late-flowering show 
sorts. ae 

Primrose and Polyanthus inter-crossed to produce new forms capable 
of after-improvement by the florist. 

Anemone coronaria with sylvestris, apennina, and various others. 

No. 1172.—Vot. XLY., OLD SERIES. 


194 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


“ [ March 16, 1871. 


The garden Hyacinth systematically cross-bred, 

The Tea-scented Rose crossed with the Yellow Briar race, also its 
yellow forms with Rosa’ alba, to produce fragrant white and yellow 
Perpetuals. 

Pelargonium scutatum with Ciconium, to verify or disprove the 
capability of union between the Scarlet Geranium and the Ivy-leaf. 

Carnation and Picotee. 

Tom Thumb, or other plain-leayed Geranium, crossed with Mrs. 
Pollock, Golden Chain, and Alma. Baron Hugel, or other dark-zoned 
sort, with the same three descriptions of variegation. 

Aquilegia glandulosa with other Columbines. 

British wild flowers, as Veronica, Ranunculus, ‘Lonicera, Digitalis, 
Gentiana, crossed with allied exotic species. 

Common Sloe with Green Gage. 

Cherry Plum with the Green Gage. 

Bramble with the Raspberry. 

Crosses amongst the Brassicas, Onions, Carrots, and Radishes. 

Black Currant and Scarlet Ribes. 

DIFFICULT AND HITHERTO UNATTEMPTED HYBRID UNIONS. 

Common Maize by variegated Japanese. 

Common Pine Apple by Variegated Pine Apple. 

Composite plants, as Aster, Dahlia, and Chrysanthemum. 

Native Iris, feetida and Pseudacorus, with the handsome garden 
sorts. 

Salvia patens, with fulgens and splendens. 

Mimulus cardinalis and the Musk plant. 

Objects of great beauty and value will be readily produced 
from amongst the crowd of gorgeous new plants at our large 
establishments. Fruit and vegetable crosses are particularly 
desirable. 

The above list must be, of course, considered as suggestive 
only and explanatory, showing what may, and probably can, be 
done in future seasons. To produce the crosses enumerated 
would be the work of from one to several years, but who knows 
but one or other may even turn up this very season ?—R. Tre- 
vor CLankE. 


SELECTIONS OF VINES AND EDUCATING 
THE ROOTS. 


I Ave read Mr. Abbey’s article at page 65, and I think 
Chaouch, or the Turkish Sweetwater, is quite worthy of being 
grown amongst the rest; itis the favourite Grape at Constan- 
tinople, a good grower, with handsome foliage, and is sure to 
attract the eye upon entering a vinery. The bunches are large 
and showy, and the berries large, oval, bright amber-coloured. 
As regards flavour, grown in a house with Lady Downe’s, Burch- 
ardt’s Prince [Aramon], Black Tokay, or Alicante, West’s St. 


Peter’s, Foster’s White Seedling, and Trebbiano, this Grape } 


was preferred by my visitors. Such has been my experience 
with it when grafted upon an American stock. It is also a 
good pot Vine, and hangs well. 

In the list of Frontignans, the Harly Golden, or Salamon’s 
Frontignan, should not be omitted; it ripens as early as the 
Smyrna Frontignan, or, to give this its Levant name, Isaker 
Daisiko, and is first-rate in flavour and appearance. The ladies 
say, ‘‘ What lovely Grapes!’ Next comes the Primavis Fron- 
tignan, which is an offspring of Chasselas Musqué, known to 
some as Josling’s St. Alban’s, one of the finest of all Grapes 
when in perfection. The Primavis has large berries and 
bunches of the same high exquisite flavour as its parent, and 
the Vine is vigorous and fruitful. These two do not require so 
much heat as the Troyéren, and the three varieties named are 
the cream of the Frontignans, a class of Grapes having no 
equal when grafted and planted in inside borders, or grown in 
pots plunged, suitable for forcing or midseason supply. All 
the Frontignans named are croquant, or crackling, a quality 
much admired by the French. 

Lady Downe’s, like its twin sister, Foster’s White Seedling, 
forces well. Although generally spoken of as a late Grape, 
so highly does it stand with me, that it is used for early 
and late work. As to Barbarossa, or Gros Guillaume, I urge 
the planting of grafted Vines only, these being worked on the 
Frankenthal, or better on the wild American stock, planting in 
inside borders not filled with manure, and in a heat a little 
above that of a Muscat house. Then this Grape will give 
every satisfaction, and be very fine both in bunch and berry. 
Allowed to hang till spring, it is one of the very best black 
Grapes grown; no Grape keeps longer than this, and it never 
shanks. Its noble bunches, weighing 6 or 7 lbs. each, might 
easily be mistaken for well-grown Hamburghs. Gros Colman 
is not mentioned. It is a noble Grape in bunch and berry, 
sure to attract attention at the dessert. Being a late Grape it 


should be left hanging as long as possible; in fact, do not cut 
it until the berries show symptoms of shrivelling. 

As to educating the roots of the Vine, as Mr. Thomson so 
ably points out at page 61, all reflective readers will agree that 
it is of great importance. In planting Vines which I haye 
purchased from time to time, I have had to contend with the 
difficulty of disentangling two or three leading roots, which, 
when uncoiled from the pot, would be 3 or more feet in length. 
To counteract this to some extent, I have shortened such long 
roots and cut off the tips of others with the view of forming a 
compact circle, the stem of the Vine being the centre, knowing 
that the new roots are produced at the ends of the old roots in 
the greatest quantity. In striking Vine eyes in 3-inch pots, I 
have-cut off the points of all the quill-like roots when shifting 
into a pot only one size larger, this stopping of roots and shift- 
ing being repeated as fast as the pots became full of roots. By 
such means I have obtained a densely-packed ball of roots, in 
the soil for which a small portion of bone dust (borings of 
knife handles) was used. The shifting is discontinued when 
the Vines are in a 10 or 12-inch pot. 

I stop my Vines when they are 63 to 7 feet high, including 
the pot, whether they are intended for fruiting in the pot or 
planting. I afterwards reduce the height to, say, 5 feet, and 
thus I obtain fine plump eyes, sure to crop well, and the short- 
ening aids the lower ones very much, Vines grown in soil 
with a large proportion of manure make stout canes, which 
please the eye, accompanied with large soft roots; but canes of 
less size and smaller harder roots are by far the best for all 
purposes.—R. M. W., Fir View, near Sheffield. 


VARIEGATED KALE. 


Ir fitness for its purpose constitutes one of the chief beauties 
of a thing, it is equally correct that a suitable position has 
much influence in causing us to view it favourably. To varie- 
gated Kale this reasoning applies with as much force as to any- 
thing; it is only a kind of Winter Greens, and planted in the 
kitchen garden with others of its class, it is not likely to strike 
one as possessing any very extraordinary merit beyond the 
common run of culinary vegetables. But select plants after 
the true colour of the foliage is apparent, arrange them skilfully 
in groups placed in sucha position that the first view is ob- 
tained at some distance from them, and with suitable surround- 
ings they are striking objects, producing an effect of such 
singular beauty as to render them valuable adjuncts for decora- 
tive purposes during a period of the year when bright-coloured 
hardy plants are scarce. 

When the beds of a flower garden are arranged for the winter 
months with dwarf shrubs, some masses of variegated Kale 
might ba introduced with good effect; but otherwise I would 
prefer seeing them as I did lately at Buxted Park—not in the 
flower garden, but in occasional groups away among the shrubs 
on the lawns, where the bright colours and curious foliage were 
seen with the best possible effect. Uniform in height and size, 
the plants had their colours so charmingly diversified as to 
reward one for the closer inspection which their singular ap- 
pearance invited. Some of them had splendid rosettes of a 
bright crimson, others were of a delicate pink, and others had 
foliage of almost a black tint, rendered still more striking by 
the crimson frill surrounding it. Interspersed among these 
were others having white and yellowish white leaves, in some 
instances mottled and splashed with delicate green. 

To those who are unacquainted with these pretty plants it 
will thus be evident that they possess sufficient variety of colour 
to produce bright variegated masses, which, while they har- 
monise with the shrubs, tend materially to relieve their mono- 
tonous greenery.—Epwarp LuckHURST. 


RAISING AND PLANTING EARLY PEAS. 


Reaprne an article on this subject in No. 518 of Tar Journat 
or Horrrcunture, by Mr. R. Mackellar, induces me to describe 
a successful mode that I have adopted here for several seasons 
for raising our first crop of Peas. 

According to the number of rows of Peas required, I select 
paling rails about three-quarters of an inch thick, between 
4 and 5 inches broad, and 12 feet in length. Thisis almost in- 
variably the width of a border having a southern exposure. 
Then I take three pieces of the same kind of rails from 6 to 
8 inches in length, and have a notch cut out thus—V ; in this 
the other two rails are placed edge-to-edge. Three of the 
notched pieces are sufficient—yiz., one at each end and one in 


March 16, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


the middle, to keep the rails in their position ; the end section 
of the troughs thus formed is therefore V-shaped. All that is 
necessary to make the whole secure, and yet facilitate removal 
as may be necessary, is a small nail in the end of each of the 
rests, to which a Willow may be fastened right across the rails 
and secured to the nail in the rest on the opposite side. 

Before sowing, the ends of the troughs are closed with small 
pieces of turf, and the whole length is half filled with goodloam. 
The Peas are sown as thickly as they would be in the open 
border ; more soil is added and slightly pressed until it is level 
with the edges of the troughs, when these are removed to a 
vinery newly started, where they remain until the Peas area 
couple of inches above ground. Then they are removed toa 
late vinery to harden off for a few days, after which, when a 
fine day occurs, the Peas are planted in their permanent quarters 
in the border. 

This is done as follows :—A trench is cut the length of the 
troughs, and the latter placed close to its edge. The back of a 
knife is then run close along the inside of the rails to detach any 
roots which may have adhered to the wood; the Willows are 
eut, the rests removed, the Peas slip in an unbroken line into 
the trench prepared for them, and a little soil is drawn up to 
them. They are at once staked with a slight screen of branches 
to protect them from frosty nights and cutting cold winds, they 
receive a watering or two if the weather is dry, and by this plan 
earlier Peas are obtained than by sowing in autumn, and that 
without risk or disappointment.—HucH Rosz, The Gardens, 
Grangemuir, Fife. 


PROTECTING GARDEN CROPS FROM 
RAVAGERS. 


As seed time has pretty generally commenced, I offer to your 
yeaders a few suggestions which, if carried out, will prevent 
many of those disappointments we are subject toin cultivating 
the various products of the soil. Many are the enemies of the 
gardener—unsuitable soil, mice, birds, insects, &c., but these 
difficulties may all be overcome by experiments made by our- 
selves and by the experience of others. For the last forty 
years of my life I have carried on experiments in horticulture, 
some of which have proved very successful, and which, for the 
benefit of the readers of our Journal, I ask you to insert. 

The subject of red-leading seeds has been very fairly made 
known, but I have been amused by the very delicate manner in 
which the use of red lead is sometimes recommended. I have 
employed it for horticultural purposes for upwards of sixteen 
years, and I find neither danger nor inconvenience in that use. 
As red lead is insoluble in water, the rootlets of plants cannot 
take it up. Tho advantages ‘‘R. F.” speaks of are not over-, 
but under-rated. Much time and annoyance might be saved 
by extending the use of red lead to seed corn, especially where 
soils abound in wireworms. The expense is very trifling. 

Then there is the woodlouse infesting the crevices in heated 
and other houses, causing great devastation. Carbolic acid in 
liquid, mixed with a portion of soil and spread round the in- 
side walls, will cause woodlice to quickly disappear. Young 
Turnip plants in their early stage are often devoured by the 
saw-fly, whereas if a quantity of flowers of sulphur were put 
into a flour dredger and thus distributed over the plants as soon 
as they appeared, the odour of the sulphur being offensive to 
the insect, the latter leaves the plants for other prey. The 
same application to the Onion crop, when the plants have pro- 
duced two leaves, will save the crop from the “ grub.” 

I have always found a single thread of black worsted pre- 
vents sparrows from taking the buds of Currants and Goose- 
berries, also the young Pea plants.x—Tur Ontcinan Rep Leap, 
Knutsford. 


GOLDEN CHAMPION GRAPE. 


I wis some of your correspondents would state their candid 
Opinion as to the merits of this highly-recommended Grape. 
Perhaps Mr. Thomson, who is, I believe, its father, may tell us 
not only its good qualities, but exactly how to grow it success- 
fully. 

My own experience is this. Two years ago I purchased a 
very nice well-ripened £2 2s. plant of Messrs. Osborn, and a 
better-rooted or better-looking young Vine I never wish to buy. 
I planted it carefully along with Golden Hamburgh, Museat of 
Alexandria, Bowood Muscat, Muscat Hscholata, and Black 
Hamburgh in an inside border made of the best materials. It 
broke slowly and badly, and was a long time in making a fair- 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 195 


sized shoot, but eventually I managed to get a tolerably good 
cane. I cut this back, and have treated it from the commence- 
ment much as I did the others, only giving it rather more 
water, as Mr. Thomson some time since in your Journal said 
that it needed more water than many other varieties. The 
next year it broke badly again, showing no bunches, and carry- 
ing yellowish unhealthy-looking foliage. Still I again suc- 
ceeded in obtaining a fair cane, which appeared to be well 
ripened by the autumn of last year. Now, it has broken again 
without a bunch showing anywhere. The leading shoot is very 
strong and gross, so much so that I have stopped it to one leaf, 
hoping to make the other shoots stronger, but all ta no purpose, 
for, as these appear no trace of a bunchis to be seen. I have 
several other Vines of the same variety, some in pots and 
some planted out, and they all go oninthesame way. Golden 
Hamburgh, generally thought to be a weak grower and not over- 
fond of showing bunches, growing next to it, has a promise of 
plenty of fruit, and all the other Vines in the house are doing 
very well, showing two or three fine bunches at every eye. 

Now, a3 mine is not an isolated case of failure, every friend 
Ihave spoken to, without exception, having the same tale to 
tell, I think I am justified in saying that under ordinary treat- 
ment the Golden Champion is a very shy bearer. One of our 
largest Grape-growers told me that when it first came out he 
planted a house with it, and was so disgusted at its growth that 
he grubbed every Vine up. After one more year a good many 
more will do the same, unless some plain method of treatment 
can be laid down which will insure success.—Henry NicHoLts, 
Hawkhurst Lodge, Horsham. 


[We sent this communication to a very good authority, and 
this is his reply :—‘‘ My experience of this Vine is, I regret 
to say, not so satisfactory as I could wish. Planted out on 
its own roots it did not show fruit very well last season, but 
grafted on the White Tokay it bore tolerably well. It grows 
luxuriantly, but fails to ripen the side shoots well, so that the 
buds are in no condition to start the following year. Grafted 
on the Black Hamburgh, as Mr. Thomson has it, it does re- - 
markably well, and is altogether a noble Grape. I»would 
suggest this ag the best means of growing it. There is no 
question about the fine qualities and noble appearance of the 
Golden Champion when it is grown well, but there is just as 
little question about its being of a very peculiar constitution, 
and by no means easy of cultivation.” | 


“WHO MOST PROMOTED MODERN ENGLISH 
’ GARDENING?” 
Tur above is a question put to us in the expectation that a 


very different reply would bo elicited than that which we give. 
Our answer is 


Bey 
Lop / 
eat Oo} Kop aso 
Gee LOCO OG ee 
4 & 
Oo N\ 


The man of whom it is the autograph, though little known by 
his posterity, was one of the most remark-worthy men of the 
seventeenth century. William III., the Duke of Marlborough, 
the seven Bishops, Addison, and many others appear promi- 
nent on the historian’s pages, for all were prime influencers of . 
public affairs in every department of the State. But in all 
ages—and especially.in their age—men in a lower grade were 
at work quietly but most effectually ministering to the improye- 
ment of the tastes and comforts of the entire community. 
They were labouring not to change dynasties, to maintain 
creeds, or to ameliorate the laws, or purify our literature, but 
they were advancing gradually and rationally on branches all 
leading to one terminus—the improvement of our domestic 
arts; among these is gardening, and George London was its 
chief improver. 

There was a general desire for better horticulture; men of 
high attainments, such as Compton, Bishop of London, Sir 
William Temple, and Evelyn, wrote and expended liberally to 
promote the attainment of that better horticulture; yet de- 
spite these efforts, Evelyn was justified in remarking that, 
‘““Some Monsieurs, new come over, think we are as much 
obliged to follow their mode of gardening as we do that of their 
garments, ’till we become in both ridiculous.” To oppose this 


196 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ Mareh 16, 1871. 


tendency to adopt French teachers were published the volumes 
having as authors Rose, London, Wise, Meager, Cook, and 
Switzer, all practical gardeners. but of them all London went 
to the front, for he not only told what should be done in Eng- 
lish gardening, and provided the stores for doing it, but traversed 
all England to see that it was done judiciously. We will detail 
cur grounds for this conclusion. 

Switzer, in his ‘“‘ History of Gardening” in Queen Anne’s 
time, observes, ‘‘To set down that history in its several par- 
ticulars in this reign would require a volume, but will be for 
the most part summed up in the person and character of 
George London, Esq., Superintendent of the Royal Gardens, 
and Director-General of most of the Gardens and Plantations 
of Great Britain.” No one need refer to a Biographical Dic- 
tionary for further information relative to George London—not 
one even names him, yet so often have we found him taking a 
prominent part in the public transactions of the period that we 
resolved to arrange the fragments we had collected into the 
best life’s notice we could. ; 

Of George London’s parentage or birth-place we know nothing, 
but it may be presumed that he was not from elevated ances- 
tors, since Switzer, who had been his pupil, merely observes, 


“Tam not well enough informed, neither is it material, that I | 


should go back to his birth and education.” The latter was cer- 
tainly limited, and Switzer speaks of ‘the little opportunity 
Mr. London had in laying a foundation of learning—this he 


overcame purely by industry—what he wanted in one he | 


abounded with in the other.” 
London was an assistant to Mr. John Rose, who was gardener 
to Charles II. ‘‘ at the Royal Garden in St. James’s Park,” and 


gardener did.” 
him to France to observe how gardening was there conducted 
under its great practitioner, M. Quintinye ; yet he went to learn 
what to avoid, as well as what to adopt, as is shown in the 
editions of Quintinye’s works he aided in publishing. 

Soon after London’s return from France, he was preferred to 
the head-gardenership of Dr. Compton, Bishop of London, at 
Fulham Palace, ‘‘one of the first that encouraged the im- 
portation, raising, and increase of exotics. He had above one 


thousand species in his stoves and gardens, in which last he | 


had endenisoned many previously thought too tender for this 
cold climate.” 

‘Probably assisted in his great design’? by Dr. Compton, 
London, with three coadjutors, founded 


“That nursery and fund of gard’ning and plants, with which the 
nation was afterwards stock’d, I mean Brumpton Park, which, from 
the ingenious Mr. Evelyn, we may place above the greatest works of 
that kind ever seen or heard of either in books or travels. 

“‘ This vast design was begun some years before the revolution, by 
four of the head gardeners of England, Mr. London, gardener to the 
aforesaid Bishop of London; Mr. Cook, gardener to the Earl of Essex 
at Cashiobury; Mr. Lucre, garden to Queen Dowager at Somerset 
House ; and Mr. Field, gardener to the Earl of Bedford, at the then 
Bedford House in the Strand, and appear’d to all that heard of it a 
work worthy of the greatest encouragement. 

“One of their first undertakings was at the Right Honourable the 
Lord Viscount Weymouth’s, at Long-Leat in Wiltshire, where these 
four partners abode every one his month, and in the intervals attended 
their own business; of which the new nursery before-named was not 
the least; but some time after Mr. Lucre and Mr. Field dying, and 
Mz. Cook selling his share, it was divided into two shares only, under 
Mr. London and Mr. Wise, who were the persons that have since 
carried it to its highest pitch, which, some years ago, was, by a person 
of judgment [ Bowack], and no great friend to that undertaking, valu’d 
at between 30 and £40,000 (perhaps as much as all the nurseries of 
France put together.”’) 


At that time Evelyn described it as ‘‘ the greatest work of that 
kind ever seen or heard of.’ We can trace the changes oc- 
curring in the partnership by referring to the parish registers. 
There we find that in 1681, it was occupied by Lukars & Co.; in 
1686, by Cook & Co.; in 1689, by Wise alone; and in 1694, by 
London & Wise, but they had been in partnership three years 
before, for we have their first account book, containing their 
signatures to each quarter’s receipts and payments. The first 
is, ‘‘ The first quarter, from December ye 28th, 1690, to March 
ye 29th, 1691.” 

On the pages of one of the account books of that nursery are 
entries as far back as 1671, when Mr. London must have been 
in the Bishop of London’s service, as he frequently mentions 
“my master,” occur the names of many gardeners familiar to 
those acquainted with horticultural literature. Thus there is 


; this entry— At Guilford, Mr. Meager, 9 dayes worke, and 


7 dayes worke at ye Parke, 01—05—10.” This was Leonard 
Meager, author of ‘‘ The English Gardener,” and other works 
that passed through many editions. 

Leonard Meager worked at the Brompton Park Nursery during 
1691 and 1692, at 9s. a-week. This was the highest wages they 
paid. His name appears as employed by Mr. London at Mr. 
Van Spreeks, and at Brompton seemingly when out of place, 
in 1693. Many curious bits of information can be gleaned from 
the same account books. We see in them that per-centages 
to gardeners are no modern introduction. 

There are many such entries as this —‘‘ Gave at the receiving 
Ld. Ballinge Brooks bill, 00—11—06.” Wholesale prices are 
also recorded (1691). Thus 


Pd. Mr. Hurst for 2000 of YewS.. .......2esceeeeeee 20—03—00 
Ror /Q50Maltemeeeeeaccocsc ek cect sk cceeemeceee ee ene 05—14—00 
For 4000 Horne beames ... seoncasooaTacesacs 01—04—04 
for 20Splumbasenemeeces coce asec nee 00—08—06 
Payd ffor 1 pott of double Virgin’s Bower 00—02—06 


for 400 of Artichoek plants. 
ffor 1 pecke Sandwicke peas 
payd ffor 33 Orange trees..... 50 31—10—00 
There were nurseries and market gardens previously, but 
they were either very small, or their stock was only the com- 
monest of trees, plants, and culinary vegetables. Nor was that 
the worst of their deficiencies, for the owners were very ignorant 
of their correct names, and often sold the same variety under 
different titles. Evelyn gives this example—~ 
‘In Pears alone, a gentleman in the country sends to the nurseries 
for the Liver Blanch, Piguigny de chonille, Rattau blanc, &c., the 
English St. Gilbert, Cranbourn Pears (and several other names) when 


who ought to be remembered for ‘‘ the encouragement he gave | #1 this while, they are no other than the well known Cadillac.” 


to Mr. London, who made afterwards the greatest figure ever | 
Mr. Rose, at the end of four or five years, sent | 


London did much to correct this, and through the Bishop of 
London and the connections he secured during his own visits 
to the Continent, he enriched the stock of Brompton Park 
with a far greater variety of exotics than had previously been 
purchaseable. It gave birth to other similar nurseries, and his 
old masters being dead, Leonard Meager recommends purchasers 
of trees and plants to apply to his ‘very loving friend Captain 
Garrle, dwelling at the great nursery between Spittle-fields and 
White Chappel, a very eminent and ingenious Nursery-man.” 

The Brompton Park Nursery continued to exist in its in- 
tegrity till the year 1852, when the lease expired, and the 
ground, with some adjoining lands, was sold to the Royal Com- 
missioners of the Exhibition of 1851. Some idea may be 
formed of the situstion when we mention that what is now 
called Hxhibition Road, South Kensington, was the principal 


| central walk of the nursery; and the space now occupied by 


Prince’s Gardens, part of South Kensington Museum, the 
whole of the Royal Horticultural Society’s Garden, and Prince 
of Wales Road, formed a portion of the Brompton Park Nursery. 

Many circumstances combined to enable London to take the 
leadership in gardening. The Bishop of London, Evelyn, and 
Sir W. Temple, all appreciated his skill, could aid him in ob- 
taining exotics, and recommended him to wealthy employers. 
Let one instance of many suffice. Henry Harl of Clarendon, 
writing to Evelyn in 1686, thanks him ‘for speaking to Mr. 
London to go to Swallowfield.” This was the Harl’s estate near 
Reading, the gardens of which had been much neglected. 

Sir Christopher Wren also employed London relative to the 
gardens to be formed about mansions of which he was the 
architect. Evelyn employed them both, as he thus tells— 
“June 9, 1698. LI went to Deptford to see how miserably the 
Czar (Peter of Russia) had left my house after three months 
making it his court. I got Sir C. Wren, the King’s Surveyor, 
and Mr. London, his gardener, to go and estimate the repairs, 
for which they allowed £150 in their report to the Lords of 
the Treasury.” The ravages in the garden may be estimated 
from the fact that one of the amusements of the Czar was to 
sit in a wheelbarrow whilst one of his court drove it through 
the high Box-edgings. 

Immediately that William and Mary were established on the 
throne, Mr. London was appointed Superintendent of all the 
Royal Gardens with an annual salary of £200; and to this 
appointment was added that of page of the back-stairs to the 
Queen, and when Anne succeeded to the throne he was con- 
tinued in his offices. It is not difficult to discern that other 
circumstances sustained him in preferment in addition to his 
great merits as a skilled horticulturist. We have already stated 
that he was the Bishop of London’s head gardener, and the 
Bishop knowing him to be a sincere Protestant, and discerning, 
as did Mr. Rose, his promptitude and vigour, selected him as a 
coadjutor in securing the safety of Princess Anne. Attempts 


March 16, 1871. ] 


thad been made to induce her to become a Roman Catholic. I 
was known she doubted the legitimacy of her alleged half-brother. 
Her husband, Prince George of Denmark, had fled from her 
father, James II., and the latter was hastening to London 
breathing vengeance against her favourites the Churchills. The 
sentinels about her residence were doubled, so at the midnight 
‘of a day in the November of 1688 she fled from the palace. She 
went first to the Bishop, Mr. London’s master, and on the 
following morning left the metropolis for Epping Forest, and 
went thence to Northampton and on to Nottingham. The 
Bishop, says Macaulay, wholly laid aside, for the time, his sacer- 
dotal character. Danger and conflict had rekindled in him all 
the military ardour which he had felt twenty-eight years before, 
when he rode in the Life Guards. He preceded the Princess’s 
arriage in a buff coat and jackboots, with a sword at his side 
and pistols in his holsters. It was particularly observed, says 
Switzer, that Mr. London assisted on that occasion. The same 
contemporary adds— 


“Mr. London and Mr. Wise being joint-partners, and thus as it 
were, both possess’d of the royal favour, and the purses of the King, 
Queen, and nobility, left no stone unturn’d to carry on their designs. 
Soon after the peace of Ryswick [1697], Mr. London took another 
journey into France with the Right Honourable the Earl of Portland, 
who was sent by King William Ambassador-extraordinary on that 
occasion; and then it was that he made those observations on the fruit 
gardens at Veragilles, which are publish’d in the preface to their 
abridgement. 

“« After the death of the Queen [Mary], and not many years after 
her, the King [William], their royal successor Queen Anne committed 
the care of her gardens in chief to Mr. Wise, Mr. London still pursu- 
ing his business in the country. It will perhaps be hardly believed, in 
time to come, that this one person actually saw and gave directions, 
once or twice a-year, in most of the noblemens and gentlemens gardens 
in England. And since it was common for him to ride fifty or sixty | 
miles in a day, he made his northern circuit in five or six weeks, and 
sometimes less; and his western in as little time. As for the south | 
and east, they were but three or four days work for him; most times 
twice a-year visiting all the country seats, conversing with gentlemen, | 
and forwarding the business of gard’ning in such a degree as is almost | 
impossible to describe. In the mean time, his collegue manag’d 
matters nearer home with a dexterity and care equal to his character: | 
And in truth, they have desery’d so much of the world, that ’tis but | 
common justice to transmit their memory unto ages to come. 

“But to speak more particularly of the knowledge Mr. London was | 
suppos’d to be master of in this matter, the little opportunity he had | 
in laying a foundation of learning, was, without doubt, a great obstruc- 
tion to his progress in vegetative philosophy, which is involy’d in so 
many hard terms; this, nevertheless, he overcame purely by industry ; | 
and what he wanted in one, he abounded with in the other. He was 
perfectly well skilled in fruit, which seem’d to be his master-piece: As 
for other parts, as greens, trees, flowers, exoticks, and the like, he 
certainly had as much knowledge as any one man living: And tho’ he 
might not always come up to the highest pitch of design, yet that might 
be attributed to the haste he was generally in; and it can be no great 
blemish to his character, that he was not the greatest person in every 
thing, when ’tis surprizing to find he could possibiy know so much; so 
great a surprize indeed, that we must hardly ever expect his equal, 
much less any one that will exceed him. The planting and raising o 
all sorts of trees, is so much due to his undertaking, that ’twill be hard 
for any of posterity to lay their hands on a tree, in any of these king- 
doms, that have not been a part of their care. 

“Mr. London, by his great fatigues in heat and cold, notwithstand- 
ing naturally of a healthy, strong constitution, was at last seiz’d with 
an illness which carry’d him off, after a few months languishing. He 
has left a landable example to all that shall have the encouragement 
to enter, and the courage and strength to perform what he did. He died 
towards Christmas, in the year 1713.” 

In every instance that we have had to dwell over the career 
of a praiseworthy public servant we have wished to penetrate 
within the front door of his residence, and to learn more of his 
fireside doings; we have been thus inquisitiveabout Mr. London, 
but with small success. We have already noticed that his 
services had been rewarded by a Court appointment, and we 
found in the Fulham register that when buried on the 15th of 
ganuary, 1714, he was entitled ‘‘ George London, Esq.” The 
introductory sentence of his will, dated December the 2nd of 
the previous year, also designates him “ of St. Martin’s-in-the- 
Fields, Gentleman.” He had, therefore, a residence near St. 
James’s Palace, rendered necessary, probably, by his office of 
page. . It is described in his will as the ‘‘ house where he then 
dwelt, which, with the garden and appurtenances, were taken 
out of the Woodworks near Spring Gardens.” That house and 
grounds cost Mr. London, according to particulars we have, 
£267 14s. 8d. He had to purchase the right of possession 
from ‘“‘ Eisqe. Povey,” who was the previous grantee from the 
Crown. At that time some part of the ground was farmed, 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


197 


and we can hardly realise that for a purchase of ground in 
Spring Gardens £5 ‘‘had to be paid for the Corne upon ye 
Land.” The purchase was completed in the April of 1693, for 
Mr. London’s book-keeper then entered, ‘‘ Paid at the reacon- 
ing at the Crowne Taverne, at Charing Cross, at the meeting 
about sealing the lease for the new house, 01—00—00.” 

Mr. London directed that he should be buried in the parish 
church of Fulham, ‘ near the body of his first dear wife Re- 
becca,” adding the dictate of common sense, ‘‘ the funeral ex- 
penses not to exceed forty pounds.” There, as he wished, his 
body rests, and in the same grave with his second wife, Eliza- 
beth, who died in 1732, and on the slab in the aisle is recorded 
that ne was ‘‘ widow of Mr. George London, who is here in- 
terred.” 

He had acquired considerable property, for he had lands at 
Kingston and Long Ditton, shares in the Welsh lead mines, 
called St. Carbury, which he devised to his eldest son George. 
His share in the Brompton Park Nursery he bequeathed in 
trust for his youngest son John. He had three daughters, all 
married to members of the upper ten thousand. Katherine 
was become Mrs. Elford; Rebecca, dead at the time of the will 
being executed, had been Mrs. Woodward; and Henrietta was 
the wife of Sir John Peachey, and their second son was created 
Earl Selsey. Henrietta, we can testify, was a skilful artist. 
Her father bequeathed to her his ‘fine book of Surinam 
plants in colours, to which are annexed her drawings of plants 
in colours, pourtraying forty plants from the Cape of Good 
Hope, and several fruits in colours, bound in rough leather, 
they being all drawn by her.’ Some of her drawings we 
have seen in the library at Badminton. There are many money 
legacies to grandchildren and cousins, an annuity to his widow, 
and the use of his ‘‘ silver tea-kettle stand’’ and other plate, 
all testifying that he had won his way well up in the ranks of 
society. 

To the poor of Fulham he left £5. Was it his birthplace? 
or was the gift born of that turning of the heart which all must 
feel towards the place of their early happiness and prosperity ? 
We know that at Fulham he was the long-trusted gardener of 
Bishop Compton, that there he married his first wife, and that 
the union was happy is told that there he wished to rest finally 
by her side. 

Before we withdraw our pen from this subject, we must re- 
cord the pleasure we derived from the depositary where we 
found Mr. London’s will. That depositary is Doctors’ Com- 
mons. Thither we resorted with no vagrant intent, but were 
received with such courtesy by J. F. Coleman, Esq., one of the 
keepers of the records, and he so genially led the way through 
the marvellously well-arranged store halls, that we gladly di- 
verged from the immediate object of our research. To pre- 
serve the records from destruction by fire, no wood forms any 
part of the building or its fittings—rafters, floorings, staircases, 
shelves are all of iron or thick glass. The wills are chrono- 
logically arranged—the months of each year being in labelled 


¢ | packets, so that the date being known, any will is promptly 


found, and of the wills of modern date even an alphabetical 
index to the testators’ names is printed. 

Our kindly guide placed before us the will of ‘ William 
Shakespere ”—for that is his own spelling of his very legible 
autograph. The willis on three sheets of writing paper, each 
sheet between two panes of glass, and framed, to preserve them 
from the fingers of the thoughtless ‘‘ Man of Feeling.” Then 
we looked upon the will of William Pitt, short and unconnected, 
evidence that though a worthy foeman of Fox in debate, he 
was not his equal in literary composition. Next was shown 
the will of ‘‘Nelson and Bronte,” written in large characters 
with the left hand, as shown by their leaning inversely, written, 
too, in a small book red-leather-covered, such as tradesmen 
send to customers detailing the week’s account. Lastly, we 
saw the will of ‘‘ Wellington,” unmistakeable both in its cali- 
graphy and straightforwardness. Of the earliest wills there 
are very many volumes of copies on parchment, some brilliantly 
illuminated, and others, especially one dated 1581, the most 
beautiful—perfectly uniformly beautiful—examples of penman- 
ship we ever perused. . 

Nor were the concluding minutes of our visit the least grati- 
fying, for our tender of thanks was met by the response, “ No, 
I’m in your debt, for you have led me to, and instructed me in, 
gardening.” 


Porarors In GREAT BRITAIN AND InELAND.—The number of 
acres in Great Britain planted in 1869 were 585,211, and in 1870 


198 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 16, 1871. 


587,661. In Ireland in 1869 there were so planted 1,041,837 
acres ; and in 1870 there were 1,043,788 acres. 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 
Marc# 15rTu. 
SPRING SHOW. 


A cHitty north-west wind and large flakes of snow, which melted 
as they fell, gave early in the day but a poor prospect of an enjoyable 
Show even if held, as that Show was, in the Conservatory. Still, un- 
favourable as the morning was, it was not so much so 2s one which 
some can remember, who in that same Conservatory had ‘‘to dodge” 
the falling squares of glass, broken by the weight of the sliding snow, 
and there was room to hope for better things; nor was hope dis- 
appointed, for as the day advanced the sun broke forth and gave the 
wished-for warmth and life. Mr. Eyles, however, had provided against 
all contingencies, and whilst securing the Conservatory for warmth, 
he had an awning which at once protected the flowers from the sun 
and showed them off to advantage. As regards the quality of the 
exhibition, horticulturally speaking, it was fully equal to that of last 
year, and nowhere was any falling-off visible. The Hyacinths and 
the Tulips were simply magnificent, and it must be noted that the 
largest portion of the display, both of these and miscellaneous sub- 
jects, came from exhibitors showing in a way in which they could derive 
from the Society no prizes which could nearly compensate them for 
their trouble and expense. This speaks well for the good feeling 
which exists towards the Society, and the general wish to promote the 
success of its objects. The attendance of visitors was most satis- 
factory. 

Class 1 was for eighteen Hyacinths, distinct sorts. In this Messrs. 
Veitch were first with splendid massive examples of the following— 
yjz., Single Red, Vuurbaak, fiery crimson, very brilliant and effective ; 
Macaulay, Garibaldi, remarkably fine. Double Red, Koh-i-Noor. 
Mauve, Haydn, very fine. Single Blue, King of the Blues, very fine; 
La Grande Resemblance, Charles Dickens, Blondin, Grand Lilas; 
General Havelock and Feruck Khan, of the black shades. Double 
Blue, Laurens Koster. Yellow, Ida. Single White, La Grandesse, 
magnificent; Alba Maxima, L’Innocence, and Leviathan, very fine. 
Messrs. Cutbush were second, also with a splendid collection, but with 
some of the varieties not equal to those in the first-prize collection. 
Messrs. Cutbush’s collection consisted of—Single Red, Von Schiller, 
very fine; Florence Nightingale, Princess Clothilde, Macaulay, a 
grand spike; Gigantea. Double Red, Duke of Wellington, fine. 
Single Blue, Lord Palmerston, fine; Charles Dickens, Czar Peter, 
fine; Argus, Baron Yon Tuyll, Marie, fine; and General Havelock 
and Feruck Khan of the black shades. Single Yellow, Ida. 
White, Mirandoline, Queen of the Netherlands, and Grandeur a 
Merveille. 

Class 2 was for eighteen White Hyacinths. In this Messrs. Veitch 
were again first with a remarkably fine collection, consisting of 


Madame Yan der Hoop, with large white bells, very broad in the seg- | 


ments; La Grandesse, equally fine, and with a larger spike ; Baroness 
de Vander Duin, Grand Vainqueur, Orondates, Snowball, fine; Levia- 
than, a very fine blush ; Queen of the Netherlands, Paix de I’Europe, 
Madame de Stael, Alba Superbissima, La Candeur, Mont Blanc, 
Grandeur a Merveille, Lord Shaftesbury, with bells of remarkable 
size; L’Innocence, Alba Maxima, and Prince of Waterloo, double. 
Messrs. Cutbush were second with several of the above kinds; Tubi- 
flora, Voltaire, and Maria Cornelia of the blush shades; Princess 
Helena, Victoria Regina, &c. 

In the amateurs’ Class 3, six varieties, Mr. J. Douglas, gardener to 
F. Whitbourn, Hsq., Loxford Hall, Ilford, was first with excellent 
spikes of Koh-i-Noor, Marie, Florence Nightingale, De Candolle, Alba 
Maxima, and Baron Yon Tuyll. The second-prize lot came from Mr. 
Weir, gardener to Mrs. Hodgson, Hampstead, who had some very good 
spikes; and the third prize went to Mr. F. Stephenson, Tredegar 
Place, Bow Road. 

Class 4 was for six new kinds never before exhibited. Messrs. Cut- 
bush were first with Robert Lowe, pale yellow, and promising to have 
a larger spike than the older yellows; Lord Derby, blackish purple ; 
Marquis of Lorne, with a magenta stripe along each segment, shading- 
off towards the edges, and haying a fine close spike; George Peabody, 
brilliant rosy crimson, a splendid colour, and when the bulbs become 
stronger if it produce a closer spike it will be a great acquisition; W. 
M. Thackeray, rich plum; and Lilacina with a large loose spike of 
purplish lilac bells, with a deep shade in the centre of each segment. 
The second prize went to Messrs. Veitch for Brilliant, a very promis- 
ing crimson ; Prince Teck, a large-belled double pale porcelain blue, 
but rather loose; Princess Louise, with numerous pure white bells; 
Von Moltke, much in the style of Lord Palmerston, but darker, with 
a mauve tinge; M. Thiers of the black class, and Mauve Queen. 

Narcissi, for which the prizes were offered by Mrs. Lloyd Wynne, 
came next in the schedule. Messrs. Cutbush were the only exhibitors, 
and took the first prize for the best collection, and admirably bloomed 
it was. Bazelman Major, Grand Monarque, Soleil d’Or, Gloriosa, 
and Perle Blanche were especially good. 

Class 6 was for the best twelve pots of Tulips of six kinds. In this 
Messrs. Veitch were first with Fabiola, Rose Applati, Vermillon Bril- 
lant, White Pottebakker, Proserpine, and Keizers Kroon in splendid 


| 


bloom. Messrs. Cutbush were second with Rose Applati, Jaght van 
Rotterdam, Duc d’'Aremberg, Joost van Vondel, White Pottebakker, 
and a kind called Proserpine broken, but which we are assured by an 
eminent Dutch grower is Pierot Feuillermorte, or Maurice Granade. 
In the amateurs’ class Mr. Weir, gardener to Mrs. Hodgson, was first, 
and Mr. Searle, gardener to B. C. Steele, Esq., Marlesford Lodge, 
Hammersmith, was second. 

Crocuses were on the whole poor. The first prizes in the nursery- 
men’s and amateurs’ classes went to Messrs. Cutbush and Mr. Ste- 
phenson respectively; Mr. W. Paul, however, showing a fine lot not. 
for competition. 

The only exhibitions of Double Wallflowers came from Mr. Wood- 
ward, gardener to Mrs. Torr, Garbrand Hall, Ewell, consisting of large 
plants in tolerably good bloom, and from Mr. Ware, of Tottenham. 

The best six plants of Mignonette consisted of nicely-trained, very 
fine pyramidal bushes in excellent bloom from Messrs. Rollisson, of 
Tooting. A third prize was awarded to Messrs. Standish for small 
plants with large heads of bloom. For pyramidal plants the first prize 
went to Mr. R. Laing, gardener to P. W. Flower, Esq., Tooting Com- 
mon, for three well-grown plants 4 feet high. An extra prize was. 
given to Mr. Goddard, gardener to H. Little, Esq., Cambridge Villa, 
Twickenham. 

Miscellaneous groups of plants constituted one of the main features. 
of the show, and were most attractive. Messrs. Veitch exhibited a 
splendid bank of Roses, Hyacinths to the number of 150 pots, equal 
in quality to those in their first-prize collection, and a gorgeous collec- 
tion of Tulips, the whole most effectively arranged. Mr. W. Paul also 
sent, not for competition, a group of bulbous plants, consisting of 
Hyacinths, Tulips, and Narcissi, the whole of which well maintained 
the high reputation he enjoys for the successful cultivation of this 
class of flowers. Mr. Willkie, gardener, Oak Lodge, Kensington, hada 
first prize for a collection consisting of Rhododendrons, Azalea amcena, 
Dendrobium nobile, &c.; and Mr. Ware a second prize for a collection 
of spring flowers, in which were beautiful pansful of Scilla sibirica, 
Erythronium dens-canis, and the blue Grape Hyacinth. Mr. Wil- 
liams sent an excellent gronp of Orchids, Palms, and other plants; 
Messrs. Rollisson a group of Palms and Dracenas; Mr. Bull, Orchids, 
Palms, and Cycads, together with a number of grafted Aucubas densely 
clustered with berries, though the plants were but small. For these 
a special certificate was given. Messrs. Cutbush also sent a beautifully 
variegated sort. Mr. Ware sent a fine collection of Alpines; Messrs. 
Lane, Camellias in pots, also cut blooms of the same; and Mr. 
Howard, gardener to J. Brand, Esq., Balham, had a special certificate 
for fine boxes of cut blooms. 

Messrs. Standish & Co., Ascot, sent a number of Cinerarias of new 
kinds, some of them yery beautiful in colour, Rhododendrons, and 


Sino | Aucubas. Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord Londesborough, Grimston 
Single | 


Park, contributed a very effective group of Orchids, containing fine 
specimens of Dendrobium Devonianum, forming a wreath round 
Vanda tricolor; Lelia cinnabarina, extremely brilliant ; Cypripedium 
hirsutissimum and others, and Cymbidium eburneum. 

By far the grandest exhibition of Orchids we have seen for some 
time was that from Mr. May, gardener to Lady Ashburton, Melchet 
Court, Romsey, who had Phalenopsis Schilleriana with, it was subse- 
quently stated at the meeting, no less than 80 flowers, forming & 
glorious mass of delicate purple-tinted rosy blossoms, more like one of 
those beautifully tinged clouds of an early autumn sunset than any- 
thing else we can compare it to. Cclogyne cristata, gold and white, 
as wellas Dendrobium speciosum, were also magnificent specimens. 
It is almost superfinous to state that the Committee marked their ap- 
preciation of the Phalenopsis with a special certificate, and further 
recommended the collection as worthy of the Lindley medal. Mr. 
Speed, gardener to the Duke of Devonshire, Chatsworth, sent cut 
specimens of Amherstia nobilis, so rarely seen in this country, and 


| then of late years from Chatsworth only. For these a special cer- 


tificate was given. A similar award was made to Mr. Needle, gardener 
to the Comte de Paris, Twickenham, for a box of Ophrys tenthredini- 
fera, which had been brought by the Comte de Paris from the Pyrenees > 
to Mr. Bull for Musa africana, for Orchids, and for Palms, &e.; to 
Mr. Williams for his miscellaneous group, and to Messrs. Rollisson for 
Palms, &c. Several extra prizes were awarded in the miscellaneous. 
class, as will be found in another column. 


Fruir Comnurrer.—G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. A 
tray of Lettuce and Endive was exhibited by Mr. Looker, which had 
been grown in his Acme garden frame. William Sanday, Esq., Rad- 
cliffe-on-Trent, Nottingham, sent a dish of Winter Crasanne Pear 
(named Bergamotte Esperen), grown on diagonal cordons, planted 
against a west-south-west wall, 16 inches apart. The largest specimen 
grown weighed 9 ozs. The fruit was very well flavoured. Mr. Wild- 
smith, gardener to Viscount Eyersley, Heckfield, sent three bunches 
of Lady Downe’s Grape, which were cut on the 10th of Jannary, and 
kept in bottles of water in a dark place. They were awarded a special 
certificate. Mr. Thomson, of Dalkeith, sent a handsome bunch of 
White Lady Downe’s, but the flavour was deficient. Mr. Phipps, 
gardener to Lord Shrewsbury, at Ingestrie Hall, sent a very interest- 
ing and valuable exhibition of three fine bunches of Gros Guillanme, 
and also bunches of Lady Downe's, Trebbiano, Alicante, and White 
Tokay. This was a very meritorious exhibition ; all of them were hand- 
some bunches, and in fine condition, and the flayour in every case was 


March 16, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


199 


excellent. Two special certificates were awarded, one to the Gros 
Guillaume, and another to the other four bunches. 

Prizes were offered for the best three dishes of dessert Apples, and 
for the best three dishes of kitchen Apples, of distinct varieties; also 
for the best three heads of Broccoli. Of the last-named there was no 
exhibition. 

For three dishes of dessert Apples Mr. Lynn, gardener to Lord 
Boston, Hedsor, was first with Ribston and Cockle Pippins, and Scarlet 
Nonpareil ; Mr. Parsons, gardener to W. J. Blake, Esq., Danesbury, 
being second with Cox’s Orange, Cockle, and Wyken Pippins. In 
kitchen Apples Mr. Lynn was again first with Golden Noble, Dume- 
low’s Seedling, and Kentish Fillbasket; Mr. J. Beach, gardener to 
J. Herries, Esq., St. Julian’s, Sevenoaks, was second with highly 
coloured fruit of Winter Pearmain, Blenheim Pippin, and Bess 
Pool. 

Mr. Sage, gardener to Earl Brownlow, Ashridge, sent a fine dish of 
Keens’ Seedling Strawberries weighing 24 ozs., and which would cer- 
tainly have had an award if they had notarrived too late for the Com- 
mittee. 


Fiorst Coimnrrer.—Mr. J. Fraser in the chair. Messrs. Veitch 
received a special certificate for splendid pans of cut blooms of the 
beautiful Hippeastrum pardinum and Leopoldii, and a first-class cer- 
tificate for Amaryllis Chelsoni, a most beautiful, very broad-petalled, 
rich scarlet variety; Primula Boviana from Abyssinia, with long- 
stalked pale yellow flowers, had a second-class certificate. 

Mr. Bull sent Areca regalis, a handsome Palm, which had a first- 
class certificate ; also a fine pan of Goodyera Dawsoniana picta, for 
which a special certificate was awarded, together with Musa africana 
and seyeral other plants. A special certificate was also given to Mr. 
Lawrence, gardener to Bishop Sumner, Farnham Castle, for a fine 
specimen of Dendrochilum glumaceum. 

Messrs. EH. G. Henderson & Son, St. John’s Wood, sent Caladium 
Prince Albert Edward, beautifally marked—silver, green, and crimson 
—Princess Alexandria, and others, for which a special certificate was 
awarded ; also a handsome Asplenium from New Zealand, which had 
a first-class certificate. 

From Mr. Goddard, gardener to H. Little, Esq., Twickenham, came 
a basket of seedling Cyclamens, of which Snowflake, a very fine pure 
white, had a first-class certificate. Another, called carminatum, was very 
bright in colour. Messrs. Rollisson had a very fine pan of the pretty 
white Primula nivalis, also Davallia clavata, a slender-growing species 
from Jamaica. To this a first-class certificate was given. 

From Mr. William Paul came new Hyacinths, several of which 
promise to be good. Princess Louise, of the Double Red class, rose, 
with a pink stripe, and having a good spike, received a first-class cer- 
tificate. One called Voltaire was in the way of Lord Palmerston, and 
another was a pretty mauve. First-class certificates were awarded to 
Messrs. Cutbush for new Hyacinths Marquis of Lorne, George Pea- 
body, and W. Thackeray, which have been already noticed. A first- 
elass certificate was also given to Mr. Bennett for a beautiful new 
bright peach Rose, called Marquise de Castellane. 

From W. Gumbleton, Esq., came a plant of Triteleia porrifolia, 
which, it was stated, has the same objectionable odour of Garlic as its 
congener T. uniflora. Mr. Barnaart, of Vogelenzang, Haarlem, brought 
a Trillium named tulipiferum ; the flowers, however, were of a metallic 
but rather dusky appearance. 

Mr. Wilson, gardener to W. Marshall, Esq., exhibited Cattleya 
‘Triane Princess Mary of Teck, an extremely beautiful variety, and 
Uranus, another splendid variety with a richly coloured orange and 
purple lip. Odontoglossum roseum, a beautiful bright-coloured species, 
¢eame from Mr. Lawrence. Many other subjects for which the Com- 
mittee gave special certificates, have been already noticed as forming 
part of the general exhibition. 


Gexeran Mrrtmxc.—Lord Henry Gordon Lennox, M.P., in the 
chair. Twenty-one new Fellows were elected, and after the Com- 
mittee awards had-been reported to the meeting, the Rey. M. J. 
Berkeley offered some remarks on the most important subjects ex- 
hibited. With regard to Mesua ferrea shown by Mr. Bull, at first sight 
it seemed allied to a Brownea, but the leaves of the Mesua were 
simple, though seemingly pinnate, whilst those of the Brownea were 
pinnate. Its wood was so hard as to be kmown in the Hast Indies 
as Ironwood, and its flowers when dried were to be found in every 
bazaar under the name of nagkesur; they are sweet-scented and 
used in medicine. Mr. Berkeley then brought under the notice of the 
meeting specimens of Heaths he had received from Mr. Wilson Saun- 
ders, showing the effects produced on them by cold were similar to 
those of heat, as exemplified in an Oak struck by lightning. He also 
exhibited a specimen of the bread eaten during the siege of Paris, 
far worse than anything ever seen during the Irish famine. Cer- 
tainly nothing but absolute famine would have induced anyone to 
eat it. 

Mr. Bateman then called attention to Amherstia nobilis, which he 
considered was the most beautiful of all vegetable productions, and on 
which he had given a lecture five years ago (see yol.x., page240). He 
then pointed out the most remarkable of the Orchids, specially notic- 
ing the magnificent specimen of Phalenopsis Schilleriana, and Odon- 
toglossum roseum, which he said came from within 1000 feet of the 
‘snow line on the mountains of Peru. After some remarks on the 


difficulties experienced by collectors in not being able to send their 
plants from the head waters of the Amazon, a course of 3000 miles, 
he referred to the artificial fertilisation of the Aucuba, by which alone 
he thought the berries could be produced in such abundance as on the 
plants shown that day by Mr. Bull. A letter had been received from 
Mr. Hanbury, of Clapham Common, requesting information on the 
species of Vanilla of which the pods come into commerce, and some 
of which were inferior in quality to others, for example, the kind im- 
ported from Brazil. Next meeting he hoped, this request being made 
public through the press, they would be able to extract all the informa- 
tion required respecting the Vanilla. 

Mr. Bateman concluded by reminding the meeting, that the bazaar 
in aid of the French relief fund would be held on April 19th, in the 
Council Room and adjoining hall and arcade, and invited contributions. 


PASSIFLORA QUADRANGULARIS. 


Tus plant is not surpassed by the Vine for fruitfulness 
under ordinarily favourable conditions; and it is a mistake to 
suppose that it will not set its fruit without being impregnated 
with poilen from P. edulis, as has been asserted on several 
occasions by some writers. 

In December, 1869, we bought two plants from the nursery— 
newly-struck cuttings in 3-inch pots, each akout 9 inches high. 
They were taken out and potted both together in a 14-inch pot 
as one plant, and plunged in a Pine bed. The Pines were 
started gently in February, and the Passiflora was allowed to 
grow on along with them. It soon began to grow freely, and 
was trained up a pillar and along a narrow space under the 
apex of the span roof close to the ventilators; seven or eight 
shoots were led away from the stem at the top of the pillar, 
all others being cut clean out as they appeared, allowing those 
that were retained to grow as much as they pleased. By August 
each shoot had attained a length of about 18 feet, and began 
to show flowers along the whole iength; and all expanded 
nearly simultaneously, for in three days one hundred blooms 
were set successfully, with the exception of two or three—in © 
some places three or four in a cluster on short spurs. All the 
fruit attained the size of pigeons’ eggs, when, out of sheer 
inability, I suppose, of so young a plant to bear such a crop, 
exactly one-half of the fruit suddenly shrivelled and dropped 
off, particularly where set in clusters. From this time also the 
plant ceased making more wood, and the fruit swelled fast, and 
began to ripen about the beginning of November, filling the 
house at the same time with a peculiarly strong aroma. Being 
all set about the same time, the fruit was nearly all alike in 
size, the biggest weighing 4 1b. each. Throughout the summer 
the heat of the Pine bed into which I found the Passiflora had 
rooted, ranged from 85° to 90°,-top heat the same. A few days 
ago the shoots were shortened back, and the roots, which had 
found their way through the bottom of the pot, were cut off, 
but the leaves are yet vigorous and green. 

The edible part of the fruit consists of the seed and pulp 
inside, and has a peculiar and refreshing flavour. When eaten, 
a slice is taken off the side of the fruit, a slit made in the 
tough sack which contains the seed, a little Madeira sherry 
poured in, and the contents supped out like an egg.—J. Simpson, 
Wortley.—(The Gardener.) 


MR. THEODOR HARTWEG. 


Tuts well-known botanist and horticulturist died on the 3rd 
of February, being at the time Inspector of the Grand-Ducal 
garden at Schwetzingen, Baden. He was a native of Germany. 
In 1836, being then the clerk at the Royal Horticultural Society’s 
garden at Chiswick, he was selected to proceed to the elevated. 
regions of Mexico for the purpose of collecting plants. He 
sailed from Liverpool in the October of that year, and landed 
at Vera Cruz on the 3rd of December. In less than ten days 
he reported, ‘I send the long-wished-for Veratrum Sabadilla, 
rather Searce in this neighbourhood, but growing abundantly 
towards Orizaba. I also send a pinnate-leaved Borberis, which 
will be a new acquisition to the half-hardy shrubs.” This was 
Berberis tenuifolia. These and more than thirty species of 
Orchids, Cacti, &c., arrived safely packed in Tillandsia usne- 
cides. Soon afterwards he sent a Lupine, now known as Lu- 
pinus Hartwegi. He also’ discovered and sent home, with 
many others, seeds of Fuchsia fulgens, Berberis Hartwegii, 
Pinus Hartwegii, and Hartwegia purpurea, which he mentions 
as ‘‘the little plant bearing my name.” Ho returned home in 
1843, taking Jamaica in his way. He revisited Mexico in 1845, 
and remained for three years. Details of some of his pro- 


200 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 16, 1871. 


ceedings are in the Horticultural Society’s Transactions,” and 
in the ‘‘ Provecdings” of the Society. The plants he discovered 
have been described by Mr. Bentham, and published under the 
title “ Plante Hartwegiane.” In 1848 he was in California, 
where ke found several new Conifere. Soon after that year 
he returned to his native country. An opinion at the time 
was entertained by some that he was dismissed from the Hor- 
ticultural Society’s service hastily and uncourteously, on the 
plea that he had not fully communicated his journals to the 
Society. He probably thought at the time that the dismissal 
was & misfortune, but, as is often the case, it was a veiled 
benefit, being the origin of his success. He became one of the 
gardeners of the Emperor of Austria, who originally enabled 
him to come to England, and finally he obtained the appoint- 
zen which we have noted that he held at the time of his 
ecease. 


PORTRAITS OF PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND 
FRUITS. 


Amaryiiis Raynent is identical with Hippeasirum procerum. 
—(Bot. IMag., t. 5883.) 

568) yroLacEA is probably A. chelonioides.—(Ivid., t. 

BELOPERONE cruiara (Ciliated Beloperone). Naz. ord., Acan- 
thacez. Linn., Diandria Monogynia.—Native of Peru and New 
Grenada. Flowers reddish-purple and white.—(Idid., t. 5888.) 

SaXIFRAGA LonGrrouta (Long-leaved Saxifrage). Nat. ord., 
Saxifragaceez. Linn., Decandria Digynia.—Native of the Pyre- 
nees, Well suited for partially shaded rockwork. Flowers 
white, in a dense thyrse a foot high.—(Ibid., t. 5889.) 

XIPHION JuNcEUM (Rush-like Xiphion). Nat. ord., Iridaces. 
Linn., Triandria Monogynia.—Native of Algiers. Flowers yel- 
low.—(Ibid., t. 5890.) 

Massonra oporata (Sweet-scented Massonia). Nat. ord., 
Liliacez. Linn., Hexandria Monogynia.—Native of Colesberg, 
South Africa. Flowers white.—(Ibid., t. 5891.) 

TILLANDSIA IONANTHA (Violet-flowered Tillandsia). Nat. ord., 
Bromeliacee. Linn., Hexandria Monogynia.—Native of Brazil. 
Flowers pale violet.—(Ibid., t. 5892.) 

Acave rxrutorpes (Ixtli-like Agave). Nat. ord., Amarylli- 
daceez. Linn., Hexandria Monogynia.—Probably a native of 
Mexico. Flowers yellowish-green ; anthers yellow, conspicuous. 
—(Ibid., t. 5893.) 

Fie.—Royal Vineyard.‘ One of the very finest Figs yet 
brought into cultivation. Of late years considerably more 
attention has been bestowed on Figs; their cultivation is be- 
Coming better understood; their high merits as dessert fruit 
better appreciated; and many high-class varieties, before almost 
He to us, have been introduced to our gardens and to our 

ables. 

‘The Royal Vineyard Fig is above medium size, of a long 
pyriform shape, very prominently ribbed in longitudinal lines, 
the surface warted or carbuncled. The skin is very thin and 
tender, rugose or bristly; its colour a pretty reddish-brown, 
darker towards the eye, and covered with a thick bluish bloom. 
The eye is large, open, and prominent; the stalk long and 
slender, which, combined with the long pear-shape of the fruit, 
gives it a very lengthened appearance. The flesh is of a clear 
bright reddish colour, firm, yet very juicy and melting, with a 
small central cavity. Every portion of the fruit, skin and all, 
is eatable; and the flavour is particularly rich and excellent— 
indeed, it may be described as super-excellent. The habit of 
the plant is free and moderately robust; and the leaves are 
large, and rather deeply-lobed. It is very prolific and a free 
bearer, the fruit ripening about mid-season. 

“In many respects this Fig resembles the Brown Turkey, or 
Lee’s Perpetual. The habit and free-fruiting qualities of the 
plant are much the same. The fruit is somewhat of the same 
shape and form, but that of the Royal Vineyard is rather longer 
than the Brown Turkey, and the warm reddish tinge of the 
former is very distinct from the dull brown or chocolate hue of 
the latter. In flavour also the Royal Vineyard is infinitely 
superior. It is, in fact, one of the highest-flavoured Figs in 
cultivation, and willj succeed under the ordinary treatment 
required for the Brown Turkey. 

‘We are indebted for this acquisition to the Messrs. J. and 
C. Lee, of Hammersmith, who found it without a name in their 
extensive collection of Figs; and since it has proved so distinct 
and worthy, it has been named, after their nursery, the Royal 
Vineyard. The Messrs. Lee report on one special quality they 
have noted in it—namely, ‘the invariable persistence of the 


fruit, in growth, flowering, and ripening, scarcely an instance 
of its casting its iruit having been observed.’ "—(Florist and 
Pomologist, 3.8. iv. 49.) 


DINNER-TABLE DECORATION.—No. 3. 


I uust not close these articles without adverting to another 
novelty introduced upon the dinner-table, and that is a foun- 
tain in play. To some, perhaps, this would suggest itself as 
being neither more nor less than a toy ; but to how many other 
things in this world is the same term applicable? A fountain 
in play is one of the latest novelties that I have seen, and I 
need hardly say it is one which creates a greater disturbance 
in the order of things as they were, than any of the other in- 
novations previously described, for water has to be laid on and 
taken away again, passing up through the room floor and its 
carpet, as well as through the table. The latter sacrifice, 
however, was a very slight one in our case, as a portable piece 
of table, called, I think, a leaf, was made of a common de- 
scription of wood, a hole was cut in that to fit the apparatus 
to, and two tablecloths instead of one were used. The credit 
or otherwise of such devices of course belongs to the machinist 
who constructs them, but I must say that any of the forms in 
which water is seen in larger fountains can be copied in a 
small way. The two fountains which we have present some 
half dozen forms, which can easily be increased if desirable. 
In extremely hot weather the sound and appearance of cold 
water are agreeable, while as an object of ornament water is 
capable of being made attractive as well, for the bottom of 
the basin of one of the fountain decorations which we have in 
use is a mirror, and round its sides is fixed a trough to be 
filled with flowers, &c., some of which are made to overhang 
and lap into the water. Aquatic plants of small growth may 
also be introduced, and occasionally the central pipes which 
emit the water may have their bases concealed by miniature 
rockwork with a suitable mixture of foliage, in which small 
pieces of Fern are very appropriately used amongst broken 
pieces of quartz, spar, granite, or other stone. Here, again, I 
fancy some will exclaim ‘‘ These are toys!’ but if that term has 
to be applied here, what is to be said of the ordinary rockwork 
of gardens, for that is only a miniature imitation of Nature’s 
grand features? Such a fountain decoration as that referred 
to affords ample space for the exercise of taste, and is capable 
of being decked-out in a fresh garb every night, for the border- 
ing affords space for a good floral display, while the internal 
fittings, as well as the working of the mechanical parts, can be 
varied. The fitting-up, as well as the regulation of the force of 
the water, ought to be in the hands of some very careful person, 
for a delicate apparatus like this is apt to create a disaster if 
tampered with ; in our case, however, I have hitherto been for- 
tunate, but there is more trouble than might be expected in 
arranging everything properly. 

As lists of plants suitable for table decoration have been given 
in the pages of THe Journat oF Horticuxture, I have little to 
add except that these lists are far more extensive than I have ever 
had occasion to bring into use, and some I have never been able 


to do anything with—for instance, bulbs of all kinds, for they 


have not enough foliage, in my estimation, to be worth a place. 
In my opinion the requisites in a plant to be used for dinner- 
table decoration are, that it should not exceed 18 or 20 inches 
in height from the tablecloth; that it should have a uniform 
head, and, if possible, recumbent foliage; also that it should 
not require a large pot. The number of plants conforming to 
these requirements is not large, but I have used the following 
—yiz., Crotons of two or three species, C. angustifolium when 
good being the prettiest ; Dracenas both of the dark and green- 
leayed section, D. congesta amongst the latter being as good 
as any, but nothing exceeds neat plants of D. terminalis and 
allied varieties. Coleuses, when the foliage is in good colour, 
also look well, and the same may be said cf Iresine; but 
reject both when not in trim. Grevillea robusta, a very orna- 
mental pinnated-leaved plant is also good, while as a change 
the robust-looking Aspidistra elatior variegata is a strong con- 
trast, but looks exceedingly well when a fairly-grown plant is 
seen. Several Ferns are indispensable—none are more grace- 
ful than some of the Maiden-hair section; Lomaria gibba and 
several others are also good. JLatania borbonica is about 
the best Palm I have tried, being very elegant. Now and 
then a well-grown Tricolor Geranium is worthy of a place; 
and so are some of the Gloxinias and Gesneras, but I haye 
seldom had occasion to use them. Dwarf plants of Centaurea 
gymnocarpa work-in well—better than the silvery Cineraria 


March 16, 18°1. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 201 


which it resembles—as the foliage reflexes more, and is, con- 
sequently, prettier than that of C. candidissima. Itis quite a 
mistake to condemn white-foliaged plants for night; they then 
look well, for there is always some separation between the 
foliage of a plant in a pot and the tablecloth, and that separa- 
tion, be it a silver ice-pail or ornamental covering on the pot, is 
always ofa different hue from the fine foliage. Plants in flower 
are also always acceptable, and Fuchsias, Geraniums, and other 
plants may be used in turn, while a good Cineraria with flowers 
having tipped edges is very attractive by candlelight, not so the 
self-coloured blue or purple kinds. Perhaps the most showy 
of all plants for the purpose, and one that may be turned to 
account for several months in the spring, is a well-bloomed 
Azalea, than which I know of nothing more suitable. 

If on looking over the various papers on this subject I find 
anything important is omitted, I may revert to it hereafter, but 
in the meantime I would ask those who have had experience 
in the matter to record it, for there may be many modes of table 
decoration only known at the place where they are practised. 
—J. Rogson. 


NEW BOOK. 


Alpine Plants: comprising Figures and Descriptions of the most 
striking and beautiful of Alpine Flowers. By Davip 
Wooster. London: Bell & Daldy. 


Tue title of this work conveys in some measure an idea of 
its nature. Its object is evidently to familiarise lovers of plants 
generally with those charming things called Alpines, and to 
create in those as yet unacquainted with them a taste for ap- 
preciating some of the loveliest objects in the vegetable king- 
dom. The execution of the work has been entrusted to a 
gentleman whose literary training under the late Mr. Loudon 
fitly qualifies him for undertaking such a work as this, and the 
manner in which he has performed it fully justifies any expect- 
ation one might have formed. There are already seven monthly 
parts issued, and each contains three vlates, with accompany- 
ing letter-press ; but the plates illustrate more than one sub- 
ject, as, for instance, in the first part seven plants are figured, 
in the second and third six, and in the seven parts that have 
appeared forty-one excellent portraits of some of the prettiest 
Alpines are given. 

The manner in which ‘ Alpine Plants ” is produced is credit- 
able both to author and artist. The literary portion is not the 
mere dry botanical descriptions often found in such works, but 
a popular description of the plant, instructions as to its culture 
and treatment, with any interesting information in connection 
with it that can be obtained. As an illustration, let us give 
Mr. Wooster’s observations on Linnea borealis :— 


“This, which is the only known species of the genus, is a small, 
creeping, evergreen shrub, with opposite, roundish-oval, slightly too’hed 
leaves, and very pretty, graceful, drooping, slightly fragrant, pale pink 
twin flowers. This ‘little northern plant, long overlooked, depressed, 
abject, flowering early,’ was selected by Dr. J. F. Gronovius, with the 
concurrence of Linnseus, as a type of the early career of the great 
reformer of natural history, and the father of the modern physical 
sciences; and (being one of the native plants of the land which gaye 
birth to Linneus) as most fit to bear for all time his illustrious name. 

“The Linnea is a native of high latitudes and alpine districts 
throughout the northern hemisphere. It has been found in Sweden, 
Lapland, Norway, Russia, Germany, Switzerland, Savoy, and Siberia; 
and in North America in several districts, but most plentifully in 
Canada. In Scotland it was first discovered in 1795; most generally 
it is found in woods, especially of Fir, more rarely in open rocky and 
mossy situations, chiefly in the counties of Perth, Forfar, Inverness, 
and Aberdeen. In England I know of only one station where the 
plant has been found wild (to which I have paid many interesting 
visits), and that is in a plantation of Scotch Firs on the estate of Sir 
Walter Calverley Trevelyan, Bart., in Northumberland, where it was 
first discovered by the late Mrs. AJexander Wadham Wyndham, 
daughter of the late Sir John Trevelyan, Bart. 

“This very pretty, interesting, graceful little plant, which flowers 
in May and June, should be grown in moist sandy peat in a somewhat 
shady situation, and it is easily increased by separating the creeping 
stems when rooted. It is very suitable for growing on rockwork as 
a trailing plant; but it may also be most successfully grown in large 
pots or pans filled with moist peaty earth and grit, either in-doors in 
the fernery, or in the open air, in which latter case the pots or pans 
should stand in water. 

“The American plant is usually stronger than the European one, 
and is by some regarded as a variety, and called L. b. americana. 

“The Linnea belongs to the Honeysuckle Family, which consists of 
trees, shrubs, or herbaceous plants, with opposite leaves, which are 
without stipules. The flowers of the plants of this order are most 
usually produced in terminal heads, corymbs, or panicles, but some- 


times they are axillary. The calyx is combined with the ovary, with 
an entire or toothed border, sometimes scarcely prominent. The 
monopetalous corolla is regular or somewhat irregular, five or rarely 
four lobed, with the lobes overlapping each other in the bud. The 
stamens are inserted in the tube of the corolla, and alternating with 
its lobes, either of the same number as the lobes or one less, or rarely 
double the number. The ovary is inferior, with from three to five 
cells, and there are as many stigmas, which are either sessile or on 
short styles, or united on the summit of a single style. The fruit is 
generally succulent, with from one to five cells. The seeds are either 
solitary or few in each cell, with a fleshy albumen. Besides the well- 
known Honeysuckles, as other ornamental flowering plants of the 
order, frequently found in our gardens, the following may be men- 
tioned:—the Snowberry (Symphoricdrpos), the striking Leycestcria.. 
and the beautiful Wezgéla.” 

We heartily commend this work to all lovers of flowers; the 
plates are faithfully drawn and well executed, and the literary 
portion is, as we have already said, well done. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Wuitr the present favourable weather continues attend 
properly to all the principal crops of early summer vegetables, 
as the planting of Cauliflowers, the sowing of Beans, Peas, 
Radishes, Spinach, Turnips, and the various sorts of Lettuces, 
and the earthing-up and stirring of the soil amongst crops 
already growing. Attend to former directions as to pricking- 
out seedlings of Cauliflowers, Lettuces, Sweet Basil, and Celery 
for early use; the last is sure to run to seed before attaining 
perfection when sown so early as to be fit to prick out now, 
still a small quantity proves useful for soups, &c., if not for 
salads. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Be specially careful that Peach and Apricot blossoms are: 
protected by scme light covering from the effects of frost. Tie 
down a good many of the weak and short-jointed branches of 
Pears and Plums on walls, or dwarf espaliers. This will be 
found much better than the old and spurring-back method. In 
the meantime cut away all over-luxuriant wood close to the 
stem. Destroy all insects before the trees bud; clear away all 
scale, &c.; apply a wash composed chiefly of clay, water, and 
sulphur to trees liable to insects. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

With bright sunshine and drying winds it may soon require 
the utmost care to save recently-transplanted evergreens of 
large size, and no mere surface watering will be of any service. 
The ground about the roots, as well as the ball, should be 
thorougkly soaked. After applying water and allowing the 
surface to become moderately firm, stir it slightly with a blunt 
fork, which will prevent its cracking, and will also allow the 
sun and air to warm the soil and encourage the production of 
roots. Surface-dress with fine soil, and water newly-laid turf 
whenever it is observed to be suffering from the effects of the 
weather. Take advantage of the present state of the ground 
to stir the surface soil of shrubbery borders, to prevent the 
growth of weeds and give the whole a fresh and clean appear- 
ance. Do not neglect to sow plenty of Mignonette, and, if not 
already done, hardy annuals should be sown without further 
loss of time, except in cases where they are not wanted to 
bloom before autumn. Ranunculuses, if not already planted 
according to the directions previously given, should be put in 
without delay. Harly-sown seedlings will now begin to make 
their appearance. They must be carefully protected from frosts: 
and cutting winds; they will sometimes throw themselves out 
of the soil, in which case the root must be covered again with 
compost, or a slight cleft must be made in the earth, in which 
the young plant should be inserted. As regards Auriculas and 
Polyanthuses, I need not reiterate the caution I have re- 
peatedly given as to protection, &c. A slight inattention just 
now may mar the whole twelve months’ care. Water is apt to 
lodge in the cavity formed by the expanding leaves of Tulips, 
and when frozen this has a serious effect on the embryo bloom, 
In Lancashire and other parts a method worthy of imitation 
is adopted to extract the moisture: a thin piece of sponge is 
fastened to a slender cane or stick, which is inserted in the 
heart of the plant, from which it absorbs the moisture. An 
extensive bed may be thus gone over in a short time. Carna- 
tions and Picotees have suffered in many localities to a con- 
siderable extent. Harden the plants as much as possible pre- 
vious to planting out. 

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 
Many conservatories are very unfit places for Heaths, being 


202 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 16, 1871. 


generally too lofty and too warm for them; but some of the 
winter-flowering varieties are very ornamental, and should be 
largely employed in their decoration during the spring months. 
As soon as they have ceased flowering let them be pruned 
back, and give them a liberal shift when they staré into growth, 
using good fibrous peat, and if they be well attended to during 
the growing season they will overcome any injury they may 
sustain through occupying an unsuitable position while in 
bloom, Azuleas, Camellias, Roses, early-flowering New Holland 
plants, and forced bulbs will keep show houses gay for some 
time yet. L2t all plants be placed in the bes: possible position 
as regards effect, and aim at maintaining a pleasing uniformity 
of arrangement, and displaying the colours to the greatest ad- 
vantage. Pick off decaying flowers and leaves, and endeavour 
to continually replace shabby plants with others in full beauty. 
Sprinkle the surface of the beds frequently, so as to assist in 
keeping the atmosphere moist, and see that the subsoil is 
in a uniformly moist condition. Watch for insects, and at- 
tack them as soon as they are perceived, which is the only way 
of preventing them from doing mischief. Continue to remove 
into heat those Camellias which have finished flowering. Cut 
them well back if in a healthy condition. Shift in due time 
all those that requireit. Apply the engine or syringe rather 
freely once or twice a-day, regulating these matters according 
to atmospheric influence. Apply clear liquid manure to healthy- 
srowing plants. What plants are more beautiful than robust, 
healthy Camellias with dark green foliage, and producing their 
beantiful Rose-shaped flowers as large as Dahlias, of mary 
tints, and flowering in succession for six months of the most 
dreary part of the year? In some large establishments they 
are to be had in bloom in succession from early in October 
until the first week in April. Some of the earliest plants have 
now made or finished their growth, and are well set with flower 
buds; let them now be placed to rest in a suitable structure, 
where they should be very carefully watered for some time, and 
‘when hardened let them be set in a northern aspect during 
the heat of summer. Another batch will be now in the midst 
of their season’s growth, and should have heat, humidity, 
and food in the shape of good manmre water, regulated in 
strength according to their size, strength, and constitution. 
Prepare now for favourable opportunities of applying the 
engine freely to Orange trees; look well after the green fly, 
which these noble plants are likely to be affected with at this 

* season when making their new growth. Fumigations of to- 
bacco and good washings with the engine, together with top- 
dressings. oi healthy soil and charcoal, and a sufficiency of 
larified manure water, are the principal means of keeping clear 
of blights and pests of this kind. 


STOVE. 

Proceed with the repotting of such plants as require a shift, 
and pay all necessary attention to those in active growth. To 
‘secure short-jointed wood, keep up a vigorous root-action, and 
let the plants occupy a place as close to the glass as possible. 
‘Specimens started early may require re-arrangement. Ixoras, 
Clerodendrons, and Allamandas that haye become well-rooted 
will be greatly benefited by a careful supply of manure water, 
but see that it is used in a tepid state, and not overstrong. 
iook sharply after mealy bug and thrips, for if these are 
allowed to establish themselves at this season they will furnish 
plenty of work for leisure hours during the summer. Increase 
the amount cf water supplied to Orchids on blocks or in baskets, 
and keep up a very moderate fire, in preference to shading, for 
another fortnight. 

: FORCING PIT. 

Continue to remove forced flowers the moment a bud begins 
to open. Stop the barren shoots of Perpetual Roses; these 
zob the blossom buds. Take care that no plant suffers from 
want of water. This pit, as well as the houses, should be ex- 
amined daily. Increase atmospheric moisture considerably, 
and syringe on most afternoons.—W. Kranz. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


EITCHEN GARDEN. 

A yery variable week of calms and gales, sunshine and shade, 
and frosty mornings, followed by others with a temperature of 
50°, therefore requiring from the gardener constant watchful- 
ness. 

Sea-kale.—To avoid lifting more roots we covered some beds 
with sifted ashes to the depth of 6 or 7 inches, and then with 
litter, and pldced dung and leaves in the trenches between. As 
soon as the Kale peeps through the ashes it will be fit to cut 


| 


and use; and when the blanching and cutting are over, the 
ashes will be placed in the trench for future use. Furnace 
ashes sifted fine do very well, but if we had a choice we would 
prefer bog earth for covering, the Kale having then a clean 
eppearance and crispness which we haye never seen excelled in 
any other mode of treatment. These beds, with two close 
rows in each, were made for this especial purpose. 

When we grow, as we generally do, Sea-kale in rows 2 feet 
apart, we usually cover with ashes and a pot, or a pot filled 
with sweet hay inside, leaving a hollow space in the centre. 
This we do when the pots are exposed without any covering 
outside, as without the lining inside we have found the Kale 
injured by a severe frost. When the pots are covered there is 
no necessity for lining them inside. A thickness of 8 inches 
or so of sweet clean tree leaves, with a little long litter over 
them to prevent the leaves being blown away, will blanch Sea- 
kale well without any pots after the end of February. The 
lengthening shocts will raise the leaves a little, and thus indi- 
cate where to gather. We mention these simple modes, as 
pots, however much care is taken, are always in danger of 
being broken, and sweet clean tree leaves will enable anyone 
to cut well-blanched Sea-kale. When no pots or boxes are 
employed we do not like using dung for covering, as it is apt 
to rob the Kale of some of its sweetness. 

For early forcing in winter the simplest of all modes is to 
raise the roots, and place them in soil in any dark place where 
a temperature of from 50° to 60° can be maintained. If the 
heat rises above 60° the shoots will be weaker; 55° is about the 
best heat for securing stumpy, white produce. 

Cucumber Beds.—We have had some made with a little dung, 
but chiefly of tree leaves from frames. We have waited longer 
than usual to obtain sufficient heat, owing in some degree to 
the nature of the weather, which was not very favourable to 
rapid fermentation. We like to have a good heat before putting 
in the soil, and then the latter soon becomes heated. We 
prevent anything like overheating or burning the soil by having 
the centre of the beds the lowest, as described in previous 
volumes. When the beds are in good condition we also prefer 
putting in at once the whole of the soil required, instead of 
making repeated additions by earthing-up. We have no doubt 
that much of the unhealthiness of plants and attacks by insects 
are owing to the checks given by adding at different times cold 
soil, and unnecessarily exposing the plants to cold blasts in 
the process of earthing-up. Much will be gained when the 
principle of avoiding checks shall be more thoroughly acted 
upon. 

The general work has been much the same as in previous 
weeks’ notices. We forwarded seedling Cabbages by pricking 
them off with a little heat beneath them, so as to have them 
of a good size before planting them out. We did the same 
with Lettuces and Cauliflowers. Our Caulifiowers under hand- 
lights have stood well. The only Lettuces that stood well were 
those planted on the east end west sides of an eleyated ridge 
yunning north and south. The most of those even at the foot 
of walls gave way to the alternations of wet and frost. 

FRUIT DEPARTMENT. 

We proceeded with pruning, nailing, washing, and protecting. 
We delay pruning later than usual, so as to be more sure as 
respects the birds and what they leave behind them. We have 
this season been troubled less than usual. We fear the hard 
winter has much thinned the feathered tribes, though we have 
had a goodly number of visitants within these fewdays. In 
the orchard houses, except during these gales, we give air night 
and dey, so as to keep the buds back as much as possible, as 
the later they are in breaking the more secure they will be. 
Some of ours are showing a little colour, and all are freely 
swelling their buds. In sucha state the roots should not be 
dry, neither should they be too moist. We have hurried to 
complete tying all trees against walls, as when thus swelled the 
buds are easily rubbed off. During a wet day we had a little 
of the surface soil scraped off and removed, leaving the brik 
beneath hard and firm. We shall just break that with the 
points of a light fork, not going deeper than half aninch. This 
will permit of water sinking more regularly. We shall add a 
rich top-dressing, and a sprinkling of fresh soil over if, so as 
to make all look neat and clean throughout the season. We 
decline moying the soil to any depth among Peach and Nec- 


tarine roots, but the mere breaking of the surface permits of 


watering being more regularly done, and it also shows us where 
watering is most needed. Peach and other houses were at- 
tended to with watering, ventilation, &c., and Strawberries in 
bloom and swelling their fruit had weak manure water given 


March 16, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


208 


them. Soot water is good to put in evaporating-pans, and so 
is guano water, but the latter must be used with more care, as 
the vapour might injure tender subjects. We have known 
Maiden-hair Ferns almost killed by the fumes from guano, 
tobacco smoke when strong, and even from the use of sulphur 
on a hot-water pipe when the pipe was too warm. It is rare 
that soot water would throw off so much ammonia as to be 
injurious. 7 
ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

The heavy showers told very beneficially on a piece of fresh 
turfing, and furnished the opportunity of passing a heavy roller 
over the turf to bring it to a uniform level. The rains showed 
also where there was any Geficiency, so that any little knolls 
could get an extra beating down before the roller was applied. 
Lately we alluded to some precautions to be taken in turfing 
where inexperienced hands are employed, and now, as respects 
rolling fresh-laid turf after heavy rains, the, rolling cannot 
be done too quickly. The necessary number of men should be 
employed, so that without any straining the ground can be 
gone over quickly. A slow motion under such circumstances 
will be almost sure to leave the ground in humps and hollows. 
Hven rolling walks and the sides of flower beds has a, tendency 
to raise the grass there by degrees, and the working of hand- 
mowing machines exerts the same tendency, the rising being 
so gradual as not to be noticed at first, but it is sure to leave its 
mark in the course of years. We have frequently had to lower 
the sides of walks and a space round beds for a width of from 
2 to 3 feet, when the rest of the lawn was as level as could be 
desired. Grass verges by the sides of walks often become un- 
level from the same cause, and should be frequently rectified, 
as when not level, or dipping now to one side and now to the 
other, the beauty of their appearance is greatly impaired, and 
more time is taken in mowing and machining them. A small 
hand-mowing machine is invaluable for such verges, as it takes 
all the cut grass up as it goes. 

We are as yet afraid to place many plants out of doors, with 
nothing but alittle protection over them, but we are greatly 
straitened from want of room, and now under all glass the 
contest is a serious ove between what will be merely ornamental 
and what must appear at table as the merely useful and agree- 
able. Among other matters, pricking-off seedlings, and the 
making and forwarding of cuttings will be of importance this 
month, so as to bring many things forward before the middle 
and end of May. Large plants may be pricked-off singly, but 
in the case of very small seedlings it is often preferable to 
prick them off in shallow pans or pots, not singly, but in little 
patches, and then as these grow they can be divided again and 
again. Not only is this a good plan for preventing damping, 
but the young plants thrive all the better in these little groups, 
and come on more quickly than if'the little plants, almost un- 
touchable, had stood at first an inch apart. Such work with 
seedlings and cuttings will succeed better with a little extra 
heat, and if anything in the way of a slight hotbed can be 
secured, so as to command a little bottom heat, all the better. 

As respects cuttings, the rules applicable in autumn and 
spring should in general, for all half-hardy and tender plants, 
be reversed. In autumn we should give bedding plants time 
to strike in a cool temperature, and the cooler they are struck 
the more robust and hardy they will afterwards be. The 
merely growing tendency is then naturally on the decline, and 
we shall do well to humour it, instead of forcing it out of its 
natural habit. In spring plants in general are on the move, 
and in taking cuttings it is well to give an impetus to the move- 
ment. Forexample, if we inserted cuttings of Calceolarias in 
a cool place in October, we should be perfectly satisfied if they 
began to root in from eight to twelve weeks; but we should 
expect them to root in less than that number of days ina 
slight hotbed now, and if well hardened off before full exposure, 
they will make fine plants. 

So far as Verbenas are concerned (and here we must thank 
those who have responded to our wishes on this matter) we 
have generally preferred those struck in spring, and we never 
had better beds than when we struck our supply in a rather 
wholesale way with the help of a slight hotbed and frames. 
The bed being made and the frame set on, there was first a 
layer of rotten dung placed over it, say 2 inches deep, then 
another inch of leaf mould and rough compost from the noduled 
loam; next, 2 inches of light sandy loam, with a little leaf 
mould in it, and just one-eighth of an inch of sand all over. 
In this the cuttings were inserted in lines 3 inches apart and 
2 inches from each other in the row, and were watered with 
Warm water, were sprinkled two or three times in hot days, 


and received no shading when they would do without it. 
The cuttings thus treated struck quickly and grew freely, 
making fine stubby plants, had air given them as they could 
bear it, were fully exposed before planting ont, and then. 
lifted with nice balls, the fine fresh roots ready to enter at 
once into the well-aired soil of the beds. We cannot, however, 
to-day, enter into the details of propagating by cuttings, we 
shall merely advert to a few matters that have come bejore us. 
in our correspondence, and respecting which inquiries have 
been made by our amateur friends. 

First, then, we adhere to what was stated lately—that the 
great point is never to let a cutting suffer from its severance 
from the parent plant more than is unavoidable, and especially 
in propagating in spring. We cannot help it if ‘‘ ANxious’” 
cannot see how that treatment is to be reconciled with the 
directions so often given for making cuttings in the usual 
way, and then leaving them long enough for the cut bases te 
harden before inserting them. For all cuttings except those 
with milky juice, or which bleed freely, or which are of a very 
succulent nature, we should consider all such drying treatment 
as next to barbarous. Hyven in the case of the succulents, and 
very fleshy Scarlet Geraniums, if we did allow the cut ends- 
to become a little dried we would damp or shade the tops, sc- 
that there should be no drying nor exhaustion of vital energy 
there. In all other cases, the sooner the cutting is inserted 
after it is made the better is the chance of its soon becoming. 
a plant. We have no faith in the little things lying exposed 
ona potting bench. After many experiments we have never 
found, except in the cases referred to, any benefit from drying. 
the ends of cuttings before inserting them. 

The second inquiry has reference to the use of shallow com- 
mon saucers for striking cuttings in sand, and the use of 
warmed water—whether it is better than striking in pots inthe 
usual way, where there is some open soil beneath and a layer 
of sand merely on the top, and if any other shallow vessel would 
be better than an earthenware vessel with or without drainage 
holes in the bottom. The common earthenware flat or saucer | 
will answer very well; and if the cuttings can only be firmed, 
the shallower the vessels are the sooner will the cuttings root... 
We should prefer zinc vessels, however, for such work. We 
have never found cuttings do better in any vessel than in pieces. 
of partly worn-out zine spouting, and, if the waterer is careful, 
in such shallow pans the drainage hole is a matter of little. 
importance. The rapidity with which many cuttings strike under 
such circumstances is owing to the cutting going close to or om 
the bottom of the vessel, which thus presents an obstruction 
to the swelling and tho callusing there, and this in self-defence: 
causes the somewhat earlier protrusion of the roots. This is- 
also aided by the fine sand alone being used. Inthese matters 
the supposed superiority of the system consists. Its counter- 
vailing disadvantage is, that as soon as rooted you must remove 
and pot the cuttings. They will not long thrive in the sand 
after rooting. Hence for general purposes there is not so muck 
gained over using small pots in the usual way, draining them 
well, filling with prepared light compost, covering with a layer 
of sand, chiefly for keeping air from the base of the cuttings, 
inserting these cuttings round the side of the pot, and the base 
touching the side and leaving the centre of the small pot unoc— 
cupied. By this mode the cuttings can remain for some time 
after they have rooted and yet flourish, can be broken off with 
little balls when it is desired to pot or plant them, and will not 
suffer so much as roots taken from pure sand and treated with, 
compost however light, but containing some portion of loam. 

With regard to the confusion about shading, we can only say: 
at present that every extra ten minutes’ shading not necessary: 
to prevent flagging, weakens and drains the cutting, and prompts- 
it to lengthen upwards instead of sending roots downwards. “a. 
skiff with a syringe over the tops will often be much better 
than shading; and if the cuttings are from 24 to 30 inches- 
from good glass, the greater Giffusion of the light, and, as 
stated above, a dew-like skiff from the syringe will render much. 
shading unnecessary.—R. F. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

Harpy OrcHips (J. H.).—You should apply to some of the nurserymem 
who adyertise in our columns, for the Orchids andj other flowers you 
name. i 

WEATHER PREDICTIONS (dAmatewr, Cirencester).—We cannot ask the gen- 
tleman you name to predict the weather of the coming summer, 

FLOWER BeEp (F. I. C ).—We approve of the proposed mode of arrange- 
ment. For the second border we would have a narrow line of Cerastium, 
then blue Lobelia, Golden Chain Geranium, and a dwarf scarlet variety for- 
the centre, 


204 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 16, 1871. 


— 


RIBBON BorvDER (G. Devon).—As you are short of Tom Thumb we would 
plant the border thus:—Cerastium, Lobelia, and Mrs. Pollock Geranium, 
with the blooms removed; Brilliant Geranium, Calceolaria, dwarf; Ire- 
sine Herbstii, Christine Geranium, Flower of the Day, large plants; 
Stella Geranium, Ageratum mexicanum, and Purple King Verbena; or 
Coleus could take the place of Iresine. 

_CaRNATIONS AND PICOTEES (——).—We do not know of any such va- 
rieties. 


_ SEEDLING VioLeT (M. C.).—We do not detect any novelty in the seed- 
ding, eitherin colouror form. It is the common Violet, Viola odorata. 


Bouquets (MW. W.).—There is no book on the making of bouquets. 
There are many communications on the subject in our back volumes. If 
you enclose twelve postage stamps with your address, and order Nos. 
78, 349, and 431 to be sent, you will in them find much information on 
the subject. Chevreul’s work is of no use, We shall publish some notes 
by Mr. Robson as soon as we can spare space. 


Weak Manure WATER FoR STRAWBERRIES (J. B.).—The weak manure 
water for Strawberries recommended by us was intended for plants in 
pots under glass. Strawberry plants, however, in the opan air, in ordi- 
mary seasons, would be greatly benefited by a manure watering when the 
plants were in bloom and swelling their fruit, if the ground were at all 
dry. At ripening time the less water the better. 

PLANTING A VINERY (Reader).—The proposed plan will answer very 
well if carefully carried out, otherwise you will want a large space for the 
development of so much growth. The mora wood the Vines make the 
first year the greater and healthier will be the root-action, and that after 
all will lay the best foundation for future success. 


Curtrxe Back NEWLY-PLANTED Vines (J. R. G.)—You should have 
pruned back your Vines before starting them. The cutting-back would 
depend on circumstances. If you wished to have a clean stem inside 
you could have left that length, rubbing off the buds which you did not 
wish to start. As you have cut them down you will have the young 
shoot allthe longer We would only allow one shoot to grow. 


Vines PREMATURELY STaRTING (Kittie).—We do not think it would be 
‘safe now either to disbud or remove, or cut back the present growth of 
the Vines in your greenhouse. Doing so would give such a check as 
greatly to injure the Vines. If the Vines are old you might select some 
shoots near the base, and train them as future stems, taking away other 
shoots as the selected ones grow. As stated a short time ago, we saw 
‘Vines that showed little fruit cut back to make a fresh start, but the fresh 
shoots were mostly without fruit, and very weak, and the Vines were 
much injured. 


TURNING-OUT BEDDING GERANIUMS (Idem).—You can turn out your 
Geraniums for bedding into frames as soon as you like, provided you can 
protect them on frosty nights with mats, &c. 


TANE IN GREENHOUSE (S. M.).—You do not say what your tank is to 
be. A mere lining with Portland cement will not do. If the tank is of 
‘brick every brick should be soaked in water, then laid in cement, and 
afterwards if a casing of cement be put overit,it willdo. A very small 
~saddle boiler will suit your purpose. For sucha small place a pipe bent 
over or in the fireplace ought to do. Could you not get bottom heat from 
the flue without a tank or boiler? 


VENTILATING A GLASS-COVERED WALL (N. R. B.).—We should not have 
any fear of the perforated zine as a conductor of heat; but in all such 
houses, instead of mere squares of perforated zinc, it is better to have 
front and top ventilation entirely at command, so that you can give it 
freely in warm and shut it off in cold weather. 


Howse For CucumsBers, &c. (M. H. B. L.).—A bed 4 feet wide would be 
ample for Cucumbers. If propagating in a 10-feet-wide house were your 
object you could have it wider, or you could have two beds 3S} feet wide, 
one on each side. Foreach hed you will need two 4-inch pipes for bottom 
heat, and for top heat you will require two pipes on each side. It will be 
best to be able to give top or bottom heat separately at pleasure. We 
would not sink the pipes, but return them at the doorway. You will have 
abundance of front air in the flaps, but you should have the means of 
regulating them, so as to give a half-inch opening when necessary instead 
ofa9-inchone. Much frontair willnot be wanted. Ina 6-feet pit we find 
4} inches in each light sufficient. You will want to more than double 
your top ventilation, and even there half an inch all the way will often be 
better than large openings far apart. 


MonocHETUM ENSIFERUM CULTURE (S. F.).—It does not require a’ 


stove, but an intermediate house, or one with a temperature of 45° from 
fire heat in winter. A compost of equal parts of loam, peat, and leaf soil 
“will grow it well, giving good drainage. When growing it requires a 
moist atmosphere; from now to August afford a moist atmosphere, 
Sprinkle overhead twice daily, and admit air freely. Water so as to keep 
the soil moist, but allow it to become dry before giving moisture, and 
then before the plants flag supply enough to show at the drainage. The 


plant succeeds well in a pit in summer, or in an airy greenhouse; but to | 


flower freely it should have a temperature of 45°in winter. Be careful 
not to overwater in winter. 

CxCLAMENS NOT FLOWERING (Idem).—We do not perceive the advantage 
‘of keeping them very wet when they had no leaves. Continue them in 
the house until May, then remove them to a cold frame, and in June 
plant them in the open ground in a sunnysituation. At the end of 
August take them up and place them in pots twice the diameter of the 
corms, using the compost you name, and affording good drainage. Place 
them in a cold frame on coal ashes, and in September remove them toa 
shelf in a greenhouse, with a temperature of 40° to 45°. Shift into larger 
pots in October, and if you can give them a gentle bottom heat, and a top 
heat of 45° to 50°, they will sooner fill the pots with roots, make a stronger 
leaf growth, and throw up flowers more freely. Keep them near the 
glass, and do not water until the soil becomes dry. Maintain a tempe- 
rature of 45°. 


Worms In Pots (M.S. B.).—Worms, from making the soil sour and 
tending to choke the drainage, are injucious to Ferns and all plants in 
pots. Lime water will not injure Ferns; 11b. of lime is sufficient for 
three gallons of water, which should be allowed to stand forty-eight 
hours, and then, closing the holes in the pots, deluge them forthree hours 


or the drainage is not good. We would repot the plants, removing all 
the soil parting freely from the roots. The Leptopteris superba, we 
ae, will recover, but we would keep it moist, and in a temperature of 
5° to 5u°. 

CaLapium Cunture (Idem).—Caladiums succeed well in a compost of 
two parts of fibrous loam, one part sandy peat, and one part old cow 
dung, with a free admixture of sharp sand. They require a night tem- 
perature of from 60° to 65°, and 70° to 75° by day, with a rise from sun 
heat of from 10° to 20°. Slight shade from bright sun is necessary, a3 
well as abundance of moisture. Repot the Gloxinias, and place them in 
a hotbed of 70° to 75°, giving no water until they begin to grow, then keep 
the soil moist,and when they are growing freely remove them to the 
stove, assigning them a position near the glass, but partially shaded. 
They will flower well. 

CaweLtra Leaves Sporten (E. A. M.).—The leaves sent are browned, 
probably, from the plants being kept in a moist, cold atmosphere. We 
would now repot the plants, and encourage growth by a moist atmosphere, 
and a temperature of 50°. Shade from bright sun, taking care to have 
one leayes dry by giving air early, before the sun shines powerfully on 

em. 

Lawn Patcuy (H. H.).—We would scratch the bare piaces with an iron 
rake, sow over them lawn grass seeds rather thickly, and after sowing 
rake lightly and roll well. You may now give the lawn a good dressing 
of short manure or rich compost, let this remain till early in April, and 
then, on the first rains, rake well, removing all the loose parts with an 
iron rake, and sow the seeds on the bare places. Sow likewise over the 
whole Trifolium minus, in addition to the grass seeds on the bare places, 
and roll well, andthen do not mow until May, but both mowing and 
rolling must afterwards be frequent. Itis bad practice to cut lawn grass 
at this season. Frequent rolling and mowing are the only means of 
Keeping a lawn in good order. 


PeacH TREE Leaves Faiwinc (F.).—The leaves sent are blistered, we 
think, by some destructive solution, but as you say there is an exudation 
we should attribute it to gum, for which there is no known remedy. 
The leaves are so small that we suspect the tree is in a very unhealthy 
state. We do not think the mischief is caused by ants, but they may 
feed on the exudation. Besides boiling water and guano, a solution of 
Clarke’s Compound, 2 ozs. to the gallon, will destroy every ant it comes 
in contact with, and not injure the plants. 


CovERING For PescH TREES (Q. Q.).—‘“ Tarletan” would not be too 
thick as a covering for Peach trees, but we fear it would not be strong 
enough. Nothing answers better than canvas. The bush Plum and Pear 
trees would be benefited by placing the branches of Fir trees over them 
when in blossom. They need only be used in frosty weather, and should 
be removed whenever the weather is mild. In frosty weather they may 
remain on day and night. We do not see the objection to iron for the 
vinery you contemplate. If well painted it is not more objectionable 
than wood. In the matter of repairs, none will be required for many 
years, but there is one objection—viz., the expense. We, like your friend, 
prefer wood to jron, mainly on account of the expense. 


Lawn Bare -(Subscriber)—The horse manure we would leave on until 
the early part of April, and then we would clear it away with an iron 
take, and sow over the lawn Trifolium minus at the rate of 12lbs per 
acre, raking lightly after sowing, and afterwards giving a good rolling. 
If in forming the lawn you took care to secure a good covering of soil 
all over the surface, we have no doubt that it will come right this season. 
If the lawn is thin of grass you might advantageously sow over it a mix- 
ture of lawn grass seeds, say 12 to 20 lbs. per acre, along with the Clover 
seed. If the lawn is poor you may give a dressing of bone dust at the 
time of sowing. It would improve it much in appearance, being the best 
known manure for grass. 


ANNUALS FOR THE GREENHOUSE (Henri).—Balsams to be sown early in 
April in gentle heat; keep the plants near the glass, pot them off when 
the rough leaves show, and shift into a larger size as they fill their pots 
with roots, until you have them in 8 or 9-inch pots. They require light 
rich loam. Celosia pyramidalis alba, atrosanguinea, aurea, and coccinea 
—sow in a hotbed early next month, pot the plants off singly when large 
enough to handle, and continue them in the hotbed, transferring them 
to 44-inch, and finally to 6-inch pots; and when these are full of roots 
transfer the plants to the greenhouse. Loam with one-third peat will 
grow them well. Cockscombs may be grown in the same way as Celosias. 
Browallia elata, and its varieties alba and czrulea grandiflora, sow in a 
hotbed, pot off three in a pot, shift into larger pots when those fill with 
roots. and ultimately into 7-inch pots. Amaranthus bicolor and tricolor 
my be grown in the same way as Celosia. Gomphrena globosa, vars. 
alba, carnea, purpurea, and striata, require similar treatment to Balsams. 
Sensitive Plant, sow in a hotbed in peat, pot off singly when the rough 
leaves appear, and shift into larger pots as those they are in fill with 
roots, and finally give 7 or 8-inch pots. Thunbergia alata, and its variety 
alba, sow in a hotbed in light rich soil, pot off when large enough, and as 
often as the pots fill with roots shifc into larger pots; $ or 9-inch pots 
are not too large. Being climbers, they require support. A compost of 
light loam two parts, leaf soil one part, and lime rubbish one part, will 
grow them well. For autumn you may now sow Primula sinensis ina 
hotbed, pot off singly when the rough leaves appear, remove to a cold 
frame in June, shift into 43-inch pots in July, and into 6-inch or 7-inch 
pots in August, and remove them to the greenhouse in September. 
Cinerarias may be sown in May,and having similar treatment to the 
Primulas will flower early in spring. Sow Calceolarias in July ina cold 
frame or under a hand-light, pot off when large enough, and remove 
them to the greenhouse in September. Pot in October and again in 
February in their blooming pots. Cyclamen persicum may be sown now 
in a hotbed; potted off singly in small pots, and grown in heat they will 
flower next winter and spring. Particulars of their treatment were lately 
given. 


Vines PLANTED THIS SEASON (Idem).—Planted now they will need to 
be trained with one shoot, selecting the strongest, and rubbing off all 


| others, they being pruned, we presume, to the bottom of the rafters. The 


shoot is to be trained up to the top without stopping, and all the laterals 
or side shoots should have their points taken out above the first leaf. 
They will push again; let them make three or more leaves, then stop 


with the clear liquid. The worms will come to the surface or be destroyed. | themagain. After August stop all side shoots to one joint, and do not stop 


Remove whatever is used to close the holes in the pots after three hours, 
30 allow of the water running off. The roots are not in a healthy state, 


the main shoot untilit reaches the top of the house In autumn, after 
the leaves fall, cut back to 3 feet, and the following season you will have 


March 16, 1871. ] 


side shoots and fruit on them, which in the autumn are to be cut to two 
eyes, and then you have spurs. The best place for a thermometer in a 
lJean-to is the centre, about 2 feet from the glass, the back of the instru- 
ment to the south; better if suspended under a Vine. 


DESFONTAINEA SPINOSA PROPAGATING (E. S.).—Take cuttings of the 
ripened shoots—those of the current year when they become firm, and 
insert them in two parts of sandy loam and one part of sandy peat, with 
one part of silver sand, the surface of the pot to be covered with an inch 
deep of silver sand. Set the pots in a cool greenhouse, and cover them 
with a hand or bell-glass. Keep them just moist, and shaded from bright 
sun. 


WHITE VIOLETS WITH GREEN CENTRES (Idem).—We think there is 
nothing wrong with the Violets. They will improve with finer weather. 
It is not unusual for the first bloom to be like those you sent, and the 
double white is very liable to this defect. The opening badly is due to 
the same cause; finer weather is needed. 


CARNATIONS IN A BED (Idem).—Stir the soil around them lightly, and 
add some fresh, light rich compost. They willno doubt flewer finely in 
the bed this summer if not injured by the frost of the past winter. Make 
jayers when the proper time arrives, and in that way prepare material 
for a fresh bed. 


Pits FoR CucUMBERS AND Metons (A Subscriber).—We would have 
the pits 6 feet wide inside, and with two hot-water pipes along the front 
for top heat, and two under the be? for bottom heat. The pits need not 
be more than 8 feet deep at back, and 1 foot 6 inches deep in front. The 
length will of course depend on your requirements. The pits intended 
for Cucumbers should be separated from that proposed to be used for 
Melons ; indeed for successional crops, lengths of three or more lights will 
need to have a division of bricks, so that the requirements of the plants 
dn their several stages of growth may be secured. If you do not intend 
to use hot water for heating, but stable dung, then you will need an ex- 
cavation 2feet 6 inches deep, and have the walls of the pit 44 inches thick, 
built pigeon-hole fashion, 8 feet high in front, and 3 feet6 inches at back, 
and then to the top solid. The front wall may be 4 feet 6inches, and the 
back 6 feet 6 inches high, calculating from the foundation. Along the 
back and froat you will need an opening of 2 feet for hot dung for linings, 
and that will necessitate an outer wall Jinches thick; it should be brought 
up to the ground leyel, and should have a course of brick-on-edge laid in 
cement. We have two-light frames 7 feet 6 inches long, three-light ones 
11 feet 6 inches long, and they are 6 feet 6 inches wide, 1 foot 3 inches 
high in the front, and 2 feet 2 inches at the back, all external measure- 
ments. 


PLANTS FOR A CoRNER BoRDER (H. H.).—The plants you name are not 
too large for the position. The Ricinus sanguineus and Canna indica 
coccinea should be sown at once in a hotbed of 70° to 75°, and the young 
plants should be potted when large enough to handle, be grown in the 
hotbed until the end of May, and then be hardened off. The Cineraria 
maritima should also be sown at once in the hotbed, and the growth of 
the young plants encouraged, pricking them off about aninch apart in 
pans, and hardening off in May. You could not by sowing in the open 
ground in May raise any of them so as to be of use this season ; besides, 
the two former are not hardy. 


BEDDING PLANTS GOING-OFF IN A CoLD FRAME (Somerset).—Judging 
from the plant stalks sent we should say your Geraniums have been 
destroyed by the cold of the past winter. That they have been wintered 
successfully in a cold frame in mild winters no one can doubt, but it is 
only with extra means of protection that they can be brought safely 
through winters like the past. We would, as you propose, make upa 
slight hotbed, which will start those that have any vitality, and the bed 
will answer for cuttings and for seeds of annuals, and may, after April, be 
used for Melons. The plant of which you enclosed a leat and flower is 
Berberis japonica. 3 


Prants FRoM NEW ZEALAND (W. D.).—The Sophora tetraptera, we 
should think, would succeed in a sheltered situation in Guernsey. Pit- 
tosporum crassifolium would succeed in a warm situation, and undoubt- 
edly against a wall; indeed we should plant them against a wallin the 
first instance, and afford a slight protection in winter. You could try 
others afterwards in the open ground. Coprosma grandiflora also plant 
against a wall, and to propagate it take cuttings of the ripened shoots, 
and insert them in sandy peat and loam, in a cold frame or pit, and cover 
them with a hand or bell-glass. 


TRICOLOR AND BRONZE PELARGONIMUS (Inquirer).—No leaves were 
enclosed in your letter. Six Tricolor Pelargoniums at 1s. to 2s. 6d. each 
are—Lady Cullum, Mrs. Pollock, Picturata, Italia Unita, Sophia Duma- 
resque, and Lucy Grieve. Six Bronze: Egyptian Queen, Her Majesty, 
Beauty of Gulton, Edward George Henderson, Firebrand, and Model. 
For heating a pit 6 feet long and 6 feet wide, no mode would equal gas if 
you could command it, or failing that, a small stove, in both cases em- 
ploying hot-water pipes. You could not well use a flue, as there would be 
a danger of the wood taking fire. 


Names OF Fruits North-east Lincolnshire)—1, Reinette du Canada; 
2, Selwood’s Reinette ; 3, Winter Red Calville; 5, Sturmer Pippin; 7, Hol- 
landbury ; 8, Cornish Gilliflower; 9, Beauty of Kent; 10, Bess Pool; 
24, Surrey Flat Cap ; 15, White Nonpareil; 16, Baddow Pippin ; 17, Worms- 
ley Pippin; 18, Striped Holland Pippin. (W. W.).—1, King of the Pippins ; 
2, Broompark; 3, Messire Jean. 


Names oF Piants (J. H. P.).—We cannot name plants except from 
fresh flowers. (Z. Saunders).—Your plant is Oxalis versicolor, a garden 
favourite of olden times; native of the Cape of Good Hope. (TZ. A.).— 
Santolina pectinata, one of the Lavender-Cottons. (J. @.).—1, Nephro- 
dium Sieboldii; 2, Asplenium cicutarium; 8, A. auritum; 4, Phlebodium 
aureum ; 5, Selaginella Martensii; 6, S. Braunii, usually called S. pubes- 
cens ; 7, S. Kraussiana; 8, Pteris tremula; 9, Lastrea decomposita 
(A. J. Hogg).—Azalea amcena. (John Cook).—Clematis cirrhosa ; propa- 
gate it by layering, or take cuttings of short stiff side shoots. The Mag- 
nolia would probably be most readily propagated by layers, but cuttings 
may also be tried. (William).—l, Omphalodes verna; 2, Onychium ja- 
ponicum ; 3, Adiantum diaphanum. (J. Scott).—1, Aspidium coriaceum ; 
2, Pteris arguta. (Amateur)—1l, Thunbergia Harrisii; 2, Dedalacanthus 
nervosus. (W. Parkinson).—Not quite capable of identification without 
flowers. Its leaves have very much the appearance of ttose of Hoya 
obtusifolia. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 205 


POULTRY, BEEZ, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


THE GAME FOWLS OF NANTWICH. 


I tHink from ‘ Specraror’s” remarks in No. 517 of our 
Journal that he cannot be cognisant of the fact that Nantwich 
is, and for a number of years has been, the home of the Game 
fowl, as, long before poultry shows were thought of, higher 
prices were obtained for Nantwich Game fowls than any other 
birds have since realised, the time of the Cochin mania ex- 
cluded. Far more and better Game fowls have been bred in 
this locality than in any other district in England; and the 
annual show attracts more distant Game fanciers from all parts 
of England in search of fresh and good blood of this breed than 
even Birmingham. Certainly such would not be the case long 
if the true and carefully bred Nautwich birds were put into 
competition with the fashionable droop-tail, half-bred, Malay 
winner at numerous open shows, where he has almost improved 
the true Game fowl‘out of the pens. Whilst Dorking has a 
show of the most useful fowl to the exclusion of the coarse 
Shanghae or so-called Brahma, Cochin, &c., I hope ‘‘ Spxc- 
TatoR”’ will not try to prevent Nantwich from keeping intact 
the most ornamental and usefal fowl combined which we have.— 
CornisH Duckwine. 


OUTRAGES ON EXHIBITED BIRDS. 


On the 4th inst. my pen of Light Brahmas and a pair of Nun 
Pigeons returned from the Colchester Show. I at once examined the 
hampers to see if any prize or commended cards were sent, but to my 
great annoyance the first thing that caught my eye was that the hen 
Nun had the hood entirely cut off, evidently by a pair of scissors, and 
very neatly too. Upon opening the fowl basket I was further alarmed 
by seeing blood upon the straw, and I found in the right side of the 
pullet two wounds 3 inches in length and three-quarters of an inch in 
depth, evidently done by a very sharp instrument, as the feathers were - 
cut through in a line with the wounds. I am happy to inform the 
aggressor that I think the pullet will recover. I will promise him he 
will not have the chance again as long as she remains my property, as 
I have come to the conclusion never to exhibit again unless I can see 
clearly how exhibitors’ property can be better protected. If these 
practices are to continue, no doubt a great number of other exhibitors 
will keep their pets at home instead of placing them at the mercy of 
evil-disposed persons.—T. A. Dean, Moreton-on-Lugg, near Hereford. 


[In our advertising columns it will be seen that Mr. Dean offers a 
reward for the discovery of the perpetrator of this dastardly outrage. 
—Ebs. ] 


Waar can be done to prevent these diabolical and mean acts? I 
am persuaded that the following was wilfully committed. On the 
return of my pair of Spanish birds from Colchester Show last week, 
where they had just won the first prize, I discovered, much to my 
grief and disgust, that the cock had lost one of his sickle feathers. 
On making a closer inspection I found that there was not another 
feather injured or missing, but there was the hole clear and distinct 
from which it had been extracted. One can understand a feather 
being broken and the stump left in the flesh, or a number being pulled 
out through the carelessness or the bad handling of those packing the 
birds ; but when it is only one, and that clean pulled out, it seems 
more than an accident, and looks like the act of some malicious vaga- 
bond, who, when caught, should be prosecuted with the utmost rigour. 
—F. C. Nicuots, Camberwell. 


NORTHAMPTON POULTRY SHOW. 


Ir would be impossible to speak more highly than deserved of the 
efforts of the Managing Committee of this Show, and a more fitting 
building than the Corn Exchange, where it was held, is very rarely 
met with. A very liberal prize schedule brought thrice the entries of 
last year, and few of the pens contzined birds of inferior quality, and 
there was not a diseased bird to be met with. The company on the 
opening day, March Sth, was good, and numbers of the neighbouring 
aristocracy were present. The next day, however, being very un- 
favourable, limited the attendance chiefly to enthusiastic poultry 
amateurs, but in the evering the Exchange was well filled. 

The Grey Dorkings were throughout very good, the hens being of 
unusual merit, and most of the pairs very well matched, both as to 
size and colour. Cochins rarely show to the greatest advantage so late 
in the season, and a few pens were evidently oyertaxed by almost con- 
tinuous exhibition. There were some good Brahmas, the Dark- 
feathered being the better of the two varieties. Spanish were mostly 
of excellent quality, but many of the cocks were sadly injured by their 
proximity to the Game fowls. By a complete oversight the pens, 
wired both back and front, were placed so as to touch each other, or 
nearly so, when set back to back, and the consequence was the Game 


206 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


cocks were constantly fighting the Spanish fowls, to the permanent 
injury of the ear-lobes of the latter, which are a feature on which so 
much depends in the exhibition of Spanish fowls. It must be re- 
membered that in an exhibition no open wirework should be fixed 
nearer any other pen than 9 or 10 inches, otherwise fighting will ensue. 
The Game classes were well filled, but some of the birds were much 
injured by the inmates ot neighbouring pens. The Hamburghs were 
far in advance of those shown last year at Northampton, and con- 
stituted a very pleasing feature of the Show. The Variety class, both 
for cocks and hens, was first-rate, Silver Polands taking the head prize 
in both classes. Many of the Game Bantams were out of feather, and 
not so perfect as doubtless they had been at an earlier date. In the 
‘**Game Bantam class for any colour,’ decidedly the best pen in the 
class became the most notorious of any pair of fowls in the Show, 
being disqualified from the cock’s saddle feathers being dyed a brilliant 
deep yellow. Mr. Hewitt, who judged the poultry, at once detected the 
deception, and having called the special attention of his colleague, the 
Judge of the Pigeons, to the bird, it was taken from its pen and the 
colour discharged in the presence of the Committee, as to single feathers 
plucked from the bird, though the task was by no means an easy one 
on the living fowl, lest injury might have resulted to the bird had the 
means adopted been persisted in. The matter was most. artistically 
managed, and, asa draper might say, with warranted fast colours; still 
enough was got off to stain a fine white cloth the same hue as the 
bird’s saddle feathers. This pen, of course, became the most noted 
object in the Exchange, and many were the sallies of satirical wit, 
suggestive that possibly the exhibitor, finding a class for ‘‘Game 
Bantams of any colour,” considered dyeing admissible. It is a pity 
owners will not reflect beforehand on the disgrace and annoyance con- 
sequent on detection; but in accordance with our laid-down rule of 
treating all such offenders alike, it only remains to say this pen was 
stated to be exhibited by Mr. Richard Swift, of Southwell, Notts, and 
we were informed by the Judges it would certainly have taken the first 
prize had the cock been naturally exhibited. Mr. Swift denied that the 
birds were his; inquiries were instituted, and it has been discovered 
that the bird was exhibited by Hudson & Burnip, Epworth. 

The Ducks were generally good, the Mandarins and Carolinas being 
shown in lovely colour. 

Pigeons proved very good throughout, the Carriers and the Pouters 
being remarkably perfect, but the nesting season being so far advanced, 
no doubt prevented many entries being made that might have been 
otherwise expected. 

The division of the Show devoted to Rabbits was well filled. The 
Lop-eared were well shown, as were some pens of the Himalayan 
and Dutch breeds. The heaviest Rabbit weighed 17lbs.94 ozs. A few 
pens of good poultry were on view, “to be sold on the day of opening 
by public auction at 3 p.u.,” but from some unexplained reason most 
of the best specimens were disposed of privately long before the time 
specified, to the great annoyance of some would-be purchasers. 


Dorxriwves.—Cock.—1. J. Chisman. 2, W. H. Denison. he, Hon. J. Massy. 
c,R. Wood. Hens.—l, Rev. B. Bartrum. 2,J. Watts. 4c, Mrs. G. Meek; J. L, 
Lowndes; J. Brown. c, W.H. Denison. 

Cocurx-Cx1x4.—Cock.—1, J. Watts. 2, J. N. Beasley. he, W. Masland; J, 
paaehere c, W. F. Checkley. Hens.—l,J. Watts. 2, W.¥F. Checkley. hc,J.H. 

ayes. 

Branua Pootra—Cock—l, Mrs. A.J. Dove. 2, J. Walker. he, Hon. J. 
Massy; Rev. N. J. Ridley: C. T. Parker. c, W. H. Denison; J. More. Hens. 
—l, Dr. Holmes. 2, Hon. Mrs. Devereux. hc, Hon. J. Massy. 

SpanisH.—Cock.—l, Nichols & Howard. 2, W. R. Bull. he, J. F. Dixon; F. 
James. c,J. T. Parker; H. F. Cooper; E. Brown. Hens.—1, J. F. Dixon. 
2, F. James. he. J. T. Parker (2); H. F. Cooper. 

Gamwe.—Black-breasted Red.—1, J. H. Bradwell. 2, W. E. Oakeley. he, B. 
Cox. Any Colour.—i, J. H. Bradwell (Duckwing). 2, B. Cox. c,J. E. Palmer 
(Brown-breasted). 

Matay.—l, W. B. Payne. 2, J. Hinton. Cockerel.—i, Rev. A. G. Brooke. 
2, 5.S. Rooth. 

Hawevrcus.—Golden-spangled.—1, W. Bearpark. 2, R. D. Borne. ec, T. W. 
Swallow; P. Collins; B. Cox. Silver-spangled—i, J. Coleman. 2, Hon. J. 
Massy. Golden-pencilled—i, W. K. Tickner. 2. H. H.Thompson. Silver- 
pencilled—i, W. D.Tipler. 2,J.King. hc, Hon. J. Massy. 

Banraus.— Game, Black-breasted Reds—1, H.C. Rogers. 2,F.James. he, W. 
8. Jeffries ; J. More.. c, R. Swift. Game, any colour.—l and 2, J, Alien (Pile 
and Brown Red). 

Bantams (Any variety except Game).—I1,S. & R.Ashton. 2,M. Leno (Laced). 
he, Miss B. P. Frew. c, W. Silvester (Gold-laced); H. Wyman (Sebright); A. 
Storrar (Black); J. Watts (Japanese and Silver-laced). 

ANY OTHER VarreETy.—Cock.—l, H. Bowker (Silver Poland). 2, J.P. Fawcett 
(Black Hamburgh). ic. Rey. N. J. Ridley (La Fléche); W. Silvester (Gold 
Poland); J. N. Beasley (Créve-Cceur); Mrs. J. Cross (Houdan). c, W. Burrows 
(La Fleche); S. W. smith (Japanese Silkies); W. Dring (Créve-Ceur); W. 
Bearpark (Silver Poland); W. Clarke (Rumpless). Hens.—l.H.Bowker (Silver 
Poland). 2, W. Dring (Créve-Cceur). he, Hon. J. Massy (Houdan): F. Ains- 
worth (Black Hamburghs); C. F. Copeman (Black Hamburgh). c, W. Silvester 
(Gold Poland); J. More (Silver Poland). y 

SELLING CLassEs.— Cock.—1, P. Collins (Golden-spangled Hamburgh). 
2, Nichols & Howard (Spanish). 8, T. Rogers. c, Hon. J. Massy_(Dark 
Brahma); W. F. Checkley (Buff Cochin-China); W. Masland (Cochin-China); 
J. Watts (Buff Cochin Cockerel); W. Clarke (Rumpless). Hens.—l, T. Rogers. 
2, T. Hancock (Brown Red Game). 3, J. Brown. c, T. Love; B. Cox; Hon. 
Mrs. Deverenx (Brahma); W. Nottage. 

Ducks —Aylesbury.—l, Hon. J. Massy. 2, W. R. Bull. c, Mrs. A. J. Dove. 
Rouen—1. W. H. Denison. 2, R, Wood. c, J. L. Lowndes; R. Weod. Any 
other Variety.—1 and 2. M. Leno (Mandarin and Carolina). lic. W. Silvester 
(South Carolina); J. N. Beasley (Black East Indian); S. & R. Ashton; J. 
Watts (Fancy); W. B. Pratt (East Indian); Lady G. Gordon (East Indian). 


LOCAL PRIZES. 
Povtrry (Any variety).—1, W. Nottage. 2, T. Adams. 
Prcrons (Any variety)—1l, Higgins & Tassell Reaneens). 2, W. Nottage. 
-e, I. Chambers (Black Carriers). c, Higgins & Tassell (Pouters) (2); T. Adams. 
Raweirs.—l and c, F.Sabbage. 2,W.Morbey. hc, F.Sabbage; W. Morbey; 


T. Adams (2). 
PIGEONS. 
Pourers.—C@ock.—1, T. Adams. 2,J. Barber. lic, W. Nottage. Hen.—land 
2, W. Nottage. 


[ March 16, 1871. 


| _Carrrers.—Cock.—1 and Extra, J.C. Ord. 2,H.Yardley. vhc,”H. Yardley; 
j Higgins & Tassell. Hen—l, H. Yardley. 2, J.C. Ord. he, H. Yardley; J. 
| Spence. 

Sareea and 2, H. Yardley. c, T. Adams. 

JACOBINS.—1 and 2, E. Newbitt. he and c, C. Martin. 

Fanrairs.—l, H. Yardley. 2, W.H.Tomlinson. hc, H. Headley. 

Owuzs.—l, H. Yardley. 2,J.&C. Bullen. 

Tcrsits.—l, E. Newbitt. 2, H. Yardley. 

Bares.—1, H. Yardley. 2,J.C. Ord. c, H. Headley; Higgins & Tasseil. 

Dracoons.—l, A. W. Wren. 2, W. H. Mitchell. c, H. Yardley; J. Watts; 
Higgins & Tassell. 

TRUMPETERS.—1, Withheld. 2, W. Masland. 

ANTWERPS.—1, H.R. Wright. 2, H. Yardley. c, P. Collins. 

ANY OTHER Variety.—l, W. Masland (Satinette). 2, Higgins & Tassell (Blue 
Priests). hc, H. Yardley. is 

SELLING Crass.—l and 2, W. Nottage. 8, E. Brown (Carrier). he, J. Cole- 
man (Dragoons); S. Morley (Blue Baldheads): W. Bulmer (Barb); Higgins 
and Tassell (Mealy Pouters). c, J. Barber (White Pouters); A. M. Yetts. 
(Barbs); — Morbey (Black Barbs). 

RABBITS. 

Lop-£sRr.—l, C. Gravil,jun. 2, A.H. Easten. he, J. Priestly; J. E. Palmer > 
G. Johnson (2); E. Vaughan. c,— Arkwright; J. E. Palmer. 

ANY OTHER PURE BREED.—1, J. Allen (Silver-Grey). 2,T.Adams. he, S.G- 
Hudson (Silver-Grey): G. Johnson (Dutch). c, A. H. Basten (Silver-Grey); S. 
Greenwood (White Angora): J. Allen (Silver-Grey). 

Heaviest.—l, — Arkwright (171bs.9$ozs.) 2, G. Johnson. he, T..Mumby; 
T. Adams. c, A. H. Easten. 


Mr. Edward Hewitt, of Birmingham, judged the Poultry, and Mr- 
Tegetmeier, of London, the Pigeons. 


PIGEONS’ WATER TROUGH. 


CLEAN water being one of the principal requisites for the 
health of Pigeons, we must look about as to the best mode of 
supplying our pets with this great requirement. I, have tried 
many plans, but have found none answer so well as the above, 
which I have now in use, and which I am sure all fanciers who 
live in towns, and can obtain a constant supply of water, would 
do well to use. 


A — 


im 


The drawing represents a leaden cistern 2 feet long by 
9 inches wide, with a depth of 2} inches. The upright bars, 
as represented, are 12 inch apart, and prevent the birds 
getting into the water. The cover is removeable, so as to ad- 
mit of being easily clesened. ais the pipe which supplies the 
water, and whichsis joined to the water pipe in my dwelling- 
house; the water is kept continually running, and the speed 
can be regulated by the cock. sis the pipe which carries off 
the surplus water into the sewer. By these means the water is 
always fresh, and any dust or dirt that may get in is imme- 
diately carried down the waste pipe. Should you think the 
above worth a place, I shall be happy to answer any questions 
as to cost and other minor matters that any of your readers 
may wish to ask. 

T may state that since using the trough described I have not 
had a single bird ill, my stock never being in such health and 

| condition as at present, which I attribute to the good water 
supply.—F rank Granau, Birkenhead. 


nm 


; =|) 


iE 


Sinver Cup ror ParTrRipGe CocHINs AT THE WARRINGTON SHoW- 
—Two guineas haye been granted by the Society, provided the 
Secretary collects enough to make the amount seven or ten guineas. 
Those willing to subscribe must write to Mr. C. Layland, Secretary, 
Morris Brook, near Warrington. 


PicEons From Turkey.—A few weeks since reference was made in 
our columns to a number of new and beautiful varieties of Fancy 
Pigeons which had been collected in the East by the late honorary 
secretary of the Birmingham Columbarian Society, M. Noye, and con- 
signed from Smyrna to his successor in that office, Mr. J. W. Ludlow, 
of Vaushall Road, Birmingham. We have this week had the pleasure 
of inspecting a second consignment from the same quarter, which is 
certainly a magnificent assortment of domesticated Pigeons, and to 
our taste far excels in beauty the one to which we have previously 
alluded. It admirably illustrates the great care and high culture 
which is bestowed upon Pigeons in the Hast, where they are not only 
admired but regarded as sacred. To convey an adequate idea of these 
birds—their exquisite plumage and symmetrical proportions—by words 
without the aid of the pencil would simply be impossible, so intricate 
; and marvellous is the pencilling, and so rich and varied are the colours. 
The collection includes Blondinettes, Blue, Satin, and Silver ; Den- 
| tilettes, Capuchin, Satinettes, (variously pencilled), African Owls, Sul- 


March 16, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


207 


tans, Damascenes, African Turbits, and a number of others, which as 
yet are unnamed in this country. All are of the Owl and Turbit 
types, with ‘‘ plain,” “peaked,” and round heads, ‘‘ Shell Caps” and 
“ Hoods ”—in all four and twenty pairs. 

In commenting upon the attractive properties and novel appearance 
of their predecessors we ventured to predict that the highest honours 
would be awarded to them at our public exhibitions, and such has 
proved to be the case. Many of the birds were purchased by the mem- 
bers of the Birmingham Columbarian Society, and have competed most 
successfully, as numerous prize-lists testify. They seem, in short, to 
have given a fresh impetus to the fancy, by encouraging the uninitiated 
to’study and take an interest in these feathered races, as well as by 
reviving the latent zeal of veterans in the pursuit, whose enthusiasm 
must occasionally suffer a check by the wearying sameness which per- 
vades most exhibitions. Their introduction also affords another in- 
stance of the useful work which the Birmingham Columbarian Society 
is doing. We congratulate them upon it, and upon the well-deserved 
success which is attending their exertions, and growing influence evinced 
by the rapid acquisition of new members from all parts of the country. 
—(Midland Counties Herald.) 


UNITED KINGDOM RABBIT -CLUB. 


A nuMmpROUSLY attended Meeting of the Rabbit fanciers of York 
‘was held in the saloon of the Lecture Hall, on March 7th, 1871; Mr. 
‘Hirst, Superintendent of the Industrial Schools, being in the chair. 

Mr. M. Millington showed the desirability of forming an Association 
that would unite the whole of the Rabbit fanciers (without regarding 
the differences as to the various breeds of Rabbits), with the view of 
elevating the fancy, so that it may take a more respectable position in 
the community, and especially as regards poultry and other kindred 
exhibitions. Mr. Millington read many letters which he had received 
from the most respectable and influential men in the fancy, suggesting 
various modes in which the Club might be worked. Mr. Millington 
thought they had better not attempt too much at first, but feel their 
way, as they grew in experience, to greater and more attractive objects. 
For the present, it would be better to aim at bringing their influence 
to bear upon committees of poultry shows, so that the Rabbit classes 
should be placed upon the same level as poultry and Pigeons; to re- 


commend to societies Rabbit classes where none had been issued | 


before; to induce committees to have efficient, gentlemen appointed 
as judges; to keep a register of all the Rabbit fanciers in the United 
Kingdom ; and to cause an interest to be thrown into the fancy which 
it does not at present possess. 

The following resolutions were then unanimously adopted :— 

“1. That a Society be formed, to be called ‘The United Kingdom 
Rabbit Club.’ + 

“2. That the annual subscription be 2s. 67. or upwards, payable in 
advance. 

“3. That the head office be at York for the present year. 

“4, That the following gentlemen be invited to undertake the under- 
mentioned offices :—President, E. EH. M.Royds, Rochdale; Vice-Presi- 
dents, C. Rayson, Didsbury; T.I. Inman, Hackney; J. Irving, Black- 
burn ; J. Newman, London; 8. G. Hudson, Hull; C. King, London; 
G. H. Hirst, York; Robert Dobson, York; Treasurer, J. Hume, York. 

“5. That Mr. M. Millington be General Secretary, pro tem., until 
the wishes of the members shall be known. 

“6. That the next Meeting be held in the same room, on the first 
Tuesday in April, to elect the Committee and to form rules. 

“7. That in the meantime the Secretary do all in his power to in- 
duce the Rabbit fanciers of the United Kingdom to join the Club.” 


NOTES FROM MY CANARY ROOM.—No. 1. 


‘(Waite the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold 
and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not 
cease.” There are some passages in the grand old Book, which, 
despite the admitted necessity for its revision, one would not 
like to see altered, even to the extent of the dotting of an i or 
the crossing of at. Who that before he could read the Book of 
books, whose teachings will live through all time, preparing us 
for the unseen realities of eternity, turned over the leaves of 
some well-thumbed family Bible, and while looking at the pic- 
torial illustrations of the events there recorded, first heard from 
his mother’s lips the story of a world’s iniqnity and punish- 
ment, but connects in a way he does not know how, the return 
of the seasons with the Divine promise? We do not want to 
be told anything about the inclination of the earth’s axis to the 
plane of its orbit, we made up our minds about that and other 
matters years ago ; but we like to trace the result of great natural 
jaws back to thé Law-maker, and recognise in them the unmis- 
takeable evidences of an Omnipotence without Whose knowledge 
not even a Sparrow falls to the ground. 

This has not much to do with Canary breeding? but it has. 
Zam not going back to antediluvien times, and attempt to prove 
that there were Canaries in the ark, though if Iam to learn 
anything from the contents of ‘‘ Jacky’s,” there must have 
been a spotted variety, now extinct—a kind which would not 


stand upright, but fell backwards, and supported itself with its 
tail. It ig not my intention to trace the early history of the 
Canary, so that. is not why I have opened this paper as I have. 

These few sober reflections were the result of a long ramble 
T had in the country with a friend who, like myself, puts up a 
score pairs every year. Our walk is an annual institution. The 
first sunny Saturday in March we go hunting for moss. This 
walk is part and parcel of our Canary life; and when, after long 
months of dreary winter spent in the town, a man finds him- 
self brought more closely face to face with Nature just rousing 
from its long sleep, Ido not envy him his feelings if he is not 
led, even by so simple a form of vegetable organisation as a moss 
or a lichen, to look ‘‘ through Nature up to Nature’s God.” 

Our last ramble was through Ryhope Dene, a deep ravine 
about three miles from the town, running from the seaside 
about a mile inland, timbered from the margin of the little 
brook which struggles for existence in the watercourse at the 
bottom, to the top of the rugged banks on either side. A foot- 
road led through the Dene when I wasa boy, and the stream 
was crossed by a rustic bridge. Now, at this point, the valley 
is filled up from side to side with an embankment, over which 
long trains of coal waggons continually pass and repass, and 
underneath which the little stream creeps through a long cul- 
vert, emerging on the side next the sea a dirty, commonplace 
puddle, eventually losing itself in the sands of the shore. But 
the Dene is still a pretty place, and I perform a spring and 
summer pilgrimage thither annually. I take my children 
where I went with my father when I was a child. We fill our 
kettle from the spring on the hillside, which trickled out its 
sparkling drops long before I was, and will continue to do so 
long after Iam not, and we come home laden with wild roses 
and honeysuckle. 

On Saturday I brought home a bag of treasures for my bird 
room. Iam just now putting up my breeding stock, and as I 
have promised, in compliance with the wishes of many readers 
of the Journal, to give a few simple, practical hints on the 
breeding and management of the Canary, I shall do so in a 
Series of papers, at such intervals as will allow all who begin 
the season with me to compare notes as we go on. I have 
before written at some length upon the same subject, but as 
there are many who have since that time been attracted by the 
charms of this interesting songster, and have been induced to 
put up from asingle pair toa score, and who may not have read 
what was then written, I commence the new ABC for their 
especial guidance.—W. A. Buaxston. 


SUPERSTITION AMONG BEE-KEEPERS. 


Ir is strange how tenaciously we cling to old ideas. The 
teachings of early days, even the sayings of our grandfathers 
and grandmothers, have become as it were incorporated into 
our very selves. No matter if ever so superstitious, we cling 
to them, loth to give them up. Perhaps in nothing do we see 
more of this than in the common ideas respecting the nature 
and habits of the honey bee. 

So much is this the case, that even among bee-keepers of 
considerable scientific culture there are still held wrong ideas, 
detrimental to proper management. Doubtless we have escaped 
from the dense fog of superstition in whieh Virgil wrote, when 
he tells us that after killing a steer it was left in the sun until 

The tainted blood in this close prison pent, 
Begins to boil, and through the bones ferment; 
Then, wondrous to behold, new creatures rise, 

A moving mass at first, and short of thighs. 
Till shooting out with legs, and imped with wings, 
The grubs proceed to bees with pointed stings.” 

Yot there is much of superstition still clinging to us. Hyen 
in far more modern days the ideas so poetically expressed by 
Virgil were entertained in England by one who was called the 
‘“oreat husbandman of Cornwall, old Mr. Carew of Anthony.” 
Here ave his directions:—‘ Take a calf, or rather a sturk (steer) 
of a year old, about the latter end of April; bury it eight or 
ten days till it begin to putrefy and corrupt ; then take it forth 
of the earth, and opening it, lay it under some hedge or wall, 
where it may be more subject to the sun, by the heat whereof 
it will—a great part of it—turn into maggots, which, without 
any other care, will live upon the remainder of the corruption. 
After a while, when they begin to have wings, the whole putre- 
fied carcass should be carried to a place prepared, where the 
hives stand ready, to which, being perfumed with honey and 
sweet herbs, the maggots, after they have received their wings, 
will resort.”,—‘‘ Boes, their Habits and Treatment,” by the 


Rey. J. G. Wood. 


208 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


But we need not go back to the days of old Mr. Carew, for 
even in our own Canada, with all its boasted light and know- 
ledge, and even in our immediate vicinity, not five years since, 
I heard an old lady remarking that ‘‘ the drones are bees that 
have lost their stings and grown fat.’ There are those, too, 
among us, who still hold that her majesty the queen bee is a 
“he,” and they continue to proclaim her ladyship a “king,” 
also believing that the drones are females, and lay all the eggs. 
By the experienced bee-man it will be seen at once how a bee- 
keeper holding this long-exploded theory must fail in his 
management of bees. But among us there are other equally 
gross errors, such as that drones are required to nurse the 
brood ; that young bees ordinarily elaborate wax, construct the 
comb, nurse the brood, and do all the internal work of the hive; 
that a certain class of bees are appointed to attend the queen, 
constituting the ‘‘queen’s train;” that only certain bees gather 
honey; that young bees never gather honey till three weeks 
old; that another class are appointed as guard, and are relieved 
in regular order and at regular hours; that old bees do not 
build comb. These are all errors—relics of superstition, if I 
may so speak—and whoever adheres to them is still in the fog. 
—J. H. Tuomas.—(Toronto Globe.) 


Srroup Rapgrr SHow ScHEeDuLe.—This is the very best and most 
impartial schedule for Rabbits yet issued by any committee. It is 
framed to suit both the Lop and variety fanciers, and I should advise 
its adoption by other committees. There is offered in all £17 10s.— 
five classes for Lops, first prize, £1; second, 10s.; third, 5s.; to the 
varieties four classes, prizes as above, and a special selling class for 
Rabbits of any variety; and, above all, the moderate entrance fee of 
2s. 6d. in all classes. I understand this is the first time that prizes 
have been offered for Rabbits at Stroud, and I trust the entries will be 
so numerous that the Committee will not have to regret the money 
offered.—J. Bote, Jun. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


OUTRAGE ON Prize Brrps (4 Lover of Poultry).—Send us your name 
and address, notfor publication. We cannot insert specific charges from 
anonymous correspondents. 

Hen Eoe-bornp (Wellingborough).— Repeat the application of the 
sweet oil, being careful that you apply it to the egg-passage ; and give the 
hen a table-spoonful of castor oil at the same time. 

PouLtTRY TRESPASSING.—‘ Opposite our house is some land belonging 
to another person ; it is fenced off with rails, but there is no close fence, 
and, of course, my hens go into the field. I want to knowif the rails con- 
stitute a fence, and if Iam liable to be sued for the hens going on my 
neighbour’s land ?—J. R. G.” 

[We think you would be liable; for even in unenclosed lands, and in 
adjoining grounds where there is enclosure, it has been decided the keeper 
of cattle must take care that they do not trespass.) 

CurinG EGG-ratinc Hens (G. T.).—Hens generally eat their eggs from 
want of lime or the material necessary for forming the shell. They eat 
it first for the sake of the shell, in order to form that which is in course 
of being produced. Nothing is so good as to throw some baskets of 
bricklayers’ rabbish about in their haunts. Itis from want of this that 
hens in their laying season eat the mortar from between the bricks. 
When they eat the shell they learn to like the yolk, and then take to the 
egg. Thereis no real cure, but if they are watched when they lay, and 
driven from the nest after the operation is complete, they sometimes give 
up the habit. Another less troublesome plan is to obtain some very hard 
artificial nest eggs and put them in the nests, and to lay them about 
ae haunts. They peck at them, and finding it fruitless give up the 

abit. 

BrauMa Hens FEATHERLESS (W. J.).—You are perfectly right in your 
explanation of bare backs at the end of the summer, but we do not think’ 
it is the case in the first week of March. Closer observation will show 
you the attentions of the cock are much more violent in the summer 
than they are now, and in a well-managed yard the number should be 
reduced as the season becomes more advanced, and the weather warmer. 
Perfect breeding is from the largest possible hen, and from a moderate- 
sized cock possessing every desirable point. The very heavy cocks cause 
the lacerations you mention. We kad the last week one of the best La 
FPléche hens we ever had torn fearfully. Judging from your description 
you have too many cocks, one to twelve hens will be enough now. 

Cuickens DyING IN THE SHELL (4. B.).—The six chickens hatched in 
spite of you. Your eggs sre too dry. and the young cannot make their 
way out of the shell. The eggs should be wetted every day for ten days 
before hatching. When they are within two days of hntching they should 
be put in a pail of warm water for ten minutes. Their movements will 
tell you which are alive, and the moistening of the shells will facilitate 
the exit from them. 

Buive Game Cocks (A Young Beginner).—There are no real blue Game 
cocks, but some years ago there was a breed called the Blue Duns. We 
have seen few of them lately. They were very valuable on account of 
their hackles, which were much used for salmon flies for fishing. They 
had light blue bodies, with darker saddle and hackle. They were kept in 
the neighbourhood of Liverpool. We do not profess to tell the sex of an 
egg. Those who do, tell you the pointed eggs produce cocks, the round 
ones pullets. We cannot explain the cause, but our experience tells us 
more cocks are hatched from early than from late eggs. 

Bouyine Cuickens (Subscriber)—Chickens are easily distinguished 
from hens by the fineness of their faces, the delicacy of their legs, by the 
absence of wrinkles in their skins, and by the want of rotundity in their 
figure. Buy of some one you can believe, and do not be above asking 
particulars of the birds you areaboutto buy. You will find your question 
about eggs answered previously. 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ March 16, 1871. 


Various (H. H.).—It is not in any way injurious for fowls to run toge- 
ther if their eggs are not wanted and the cocks are not too numerous+ 
There will be no security unless they are separated for a month. The 
houses and runs you name will answer your purpose very well for a short 
time. They are better adapted for four than for six fowls. No covered 
place is necessary or even desirable. You may safely double the number 
of hens if you wishit. Sitting hens should be by themselves, and pro- 
tected from intrusion. 

PARASITES ON Fowts (JI. R.).—You may destroy the pests by putting oil 
at the back of the head, on the backbone, and under each wing. Supply 
your fowls with a heap of road grit, and mix some black brimstone with 
it. They will dust in it, to the discomfiture of their inhabitants. 

WHITE-NECKED CrEAaLs (J. B.).—We think if you substitute barley for 
wheat you will do better. You will improve more if you give a daily meal, 
or even two, of ground oats slaked with water. Your birds should all be 
double-combed. The cock should be light all over with a dark tail, each 
feather silvered on each side. All must haye double combs and white 
deaf ears. 

PIGEON Nor Parp For (R. Key).—We cannot insert your letter. The 
transaction is not clearly fraudulent. a t- 

ARCHANGELS AND TuRBITS (4 Subscriber)—The principal points in 
Archangel Pigeons are—beak pale brown, the eyes grayel or orange red, 
the head rather long and narrow, tail as black as you can get it, tuft 
pointed. As to colour, the head, neck, and breast of coppery red, very 
glossy, and reflecting an orange tint. In Turbits—beak, the shorter the 
better ; the eyes large and of a dark hazel colour; head broad and some- 
what angular; shoulders of one colour, the rest of the body white ; gullet 
well developed ; tuft pointed; size, the smaller the better. In Archangels 
we are not aware that size is a point, but we like to see them of a good 
size; they look best as fine birds. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN, 5QUARE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Date. 9 At. | In THE Day. 
| g Radiation 
: Valse Overcome 4 Shade Tem- Tempera- a 
1S71. | 229) HYSTO Diree- | Temp. ture. a 
B2%9| ter. ltion oflof Soil| PS |_ ture. | & 
March.|% .,3.9|___| Wind.| at 1ft. | On 
a227|Dry. Wet. gTass 
Inches. | deg. d deg. 
We. S| 29.899 42.4 Ww. 42.2 38.3 
Th. 9 | 30.293 0' 41.3 | S.W. 4 29:9. 
Fri. 10 | 5 3 | 41.9 S.W. 41. B41 
Sat. 11 | | 49.0 S.W. 41.3 | 38.7 
Sun.12 | | 46.5 | S.W. 42.3 42.7 
Mo. 13 | 44.8 Ww. 42.8 40.2 
Tu. 14 | 41.3 Ww. 42.5 34.3 
Means 46.5 | 43.9 42.1 36.9 
| 
REMARES. 


8th.—Rain in afternoon. 
9th.—Gale from S.W. from noon to 5 P.M. with heavy rain. Lunar halo 
after midnight. 
10th.—Fair in the morning, slight shower between 7 and 8 p.m. 
11th.—Rain in very early morning, fine afternoon. 
12th.—Rather dull in the morning, but beautiful afternoon. 
13th.—Hailstorm at 9.10 a.M., only lasting twelve minutes. 
14th.—Fine morning, sharp shower at noon, another between Sand 4P_M., 
about 5 P.M. very dark, followed by another heavy shower, colder at 
night. ’ 
The temperature again considerably above the average, with S.W- 
winds and moderate rain.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Makcu 15. 

Tue late improvements have been maintained, and general rates rnle 
much as last week. Cornish produce has now largely increased, and a 
consequent reduction has taken place. Cucumbers have also been very 
abundant during the last few days. 


FRUIT. 
s.d. 8s. d@ d. s. d 
6 to3 0) 0to9 0 
0 00 0 00 
0 00 0 we 
0 18 G 0 00 
00 00 Coa O: 
00 00 0 so 
00 00 0 100 
0 0 2 0 0 O00 
20 26 0 oo 
Gooseberries 00 00 o oO 
Grapes, Hotho: 6020 0 560 
Lemons.......- 60 10 0 0 16 0 
Melons........- 10 0 15 0 0 20 
VEGETABLES. 
8 
Artichokes. to to 
PEpAra pe ° 2 100 1 
Beans, Kidn 100 
Broad 


WOCOWOSCMH DOOM WONONISD 
CMMMoCDOMORODOSOSOOSCSO™ 
ADSOSCCONANMNSCON RH BOROS 

ecoscoosc ooo mOSDSaSOOOOm 
COC OWHOOHWSOSHORSHHOD 
enoconosenoooueoRowcomm 
COSCON HH RROR GD ONONNW OD 

eomsooconososooossgaccA 


Turnips 
Vegetable Marrows..doz, 


March 23, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 209 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s| Clock | Day 
en Tae MARCH 23—29, 1871. ture near London. |48 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets Age. petore noe 
Day. |Night-|Mean.| Days. |m. h.|m. h.|m. h.| m. h.| Days. |m 38. 
23 | TH | Meeting of Royal Society, 8.30 P.u. 50.7 | 83.1 | 41.9 18 59 afd | 15 af6 | 18 af7 | 49af8 2 6 46 | 82 
24 | F 48.7 | 81.7 | 40.2 16 57 5/17 6/86 7/58 9 3 6 28] 83 
25 |S Lapy Day. 50.9 | 82.8 | 41.9 16 54 5/18 6/55 7] 5 11 4 6 19); 84 
26 | Sun | 5 Sunpay In LENT. 51.8 | 82.6 | 42.2 16 | 52 6/20 6{|20 8] morn. 5 5 51] 85 
27 |M Meeting of Royal Geographical Society, | 54.1 | 84.1 | 44.1 14 50 5/22 6/48 8/11 0O 6 5 82] 86 
28 | Tu [8.80 p.m. | 538.0 | 84.0 | 48.5 17 48 5124 6/28 9/18 1 7 5 14] 87 
29 | W_ | Meeting of Society of Arts, 8 p.m. 53.7 | 88.4 | 48.6 18 45 5/26 6] .8 10/11 2 »)) 4 55 | 88 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 51.8°, and its night tem- 
ae 831°, The greatest heat was 75°, on the 27th, 1830; and the lowest cold 14°, on the 25th, 1850. The greatest fall of rain was 
.68 inch. 


SUMMER CUCUMBER GROWING. 


= 7 PART from those gardens possessing houses 
or pits specially adapted for the growth of 
Cucumbers, there are others, and by far the 
greater number, where such conveniences do 
not exist ; still Cucumbers are there required 
to be produced for as long a period as 
possible with the ordinary means at hand. 
Where frames and fermenting materials are 
forthcoming a goodly quantity of Cucumbers 
can be grown, but where there is a pit or an 
ordinary small house commanding a little warmth, a very 
plentiful supply can easily be produced; and to explain 
my method I cannot do better than describe a structure 
in which I have succeeded in producing abundant crops of 
Cucumbers by very simple means. 

The house, a lean-to, 30 feet in length, by 9 feet 6 inches 
wide, is heated by a flue, resting on the ground, running 
along the front, and returning at about 8 feet from the 
back wall. There are two tables composed of oak planks, 
3 feet wide, extending the length of the house, and divided 
by a narrow walk of 18 inches in width, and there is a 
2-feet walk at the back. On the table nearest to the back 
the Cucumbers were planted, whilst the front table, as well 
as the space at liberty on the back one, was filled during 
the early part of the season with stove plants grown for 
furnishing and dinner-table decoration. From the back 
wall to half the width of the house, a wire trellis is fixed 
at about a foot from the glass. 

In the first week in February the seeds of Masters’s 


Prolific Cucumber, an excellent variety, were sown singly | 


in 2-inch pots, and placed in a warm position at the end of 
the house where the flue entered. As the young plants 
came up and showed rough leaves, they were placed close 
to the glass, and grown very steadily. They were shifted 
when necessary into 6-inch pots, taking care that the pots 
were thoroughly drained, and replaced close to the glass. 
As soon as they were rooting freely to the sides of the 
pots they were placed in large Sea-kale pots, taking care 
not to bury the stem deeply in the soil. They were then 
placed on the table at 2 feet 6 inches apart, and allowed to 
grow very steadily so as to become sturdy, and were trained 
to the trellis, which is just 3 feet from the table. They 
were allowed to grow until within 18 inches of the back 
wall, when the small point of the shoot was nipped out, 
after which the fruit was soon produced. The plants were 
always stopped at the first leaf after the fruit, as soon as 
the point of the shoot could be laid hold of by the finger 
and thumb. 

In the first week of April other Cucumber seeds were 
sown, the kinds being Hamilton’s Market Favourite and 
Telegraph, both of which are first-rate Cucumbers. The 
plants were grown exactly as the former ones until they 
were turned out of the 32-sized or 6-inch pots. Then, on 
_ the table and between the pots containing the plants being 

forced, some rough sods of peat or fresh-cut turf, with a 
little rough charcoal, were placed, to the depth of 4 or 
5 inches, over a space about 15 inches square ; on this was 

No. 521.—Vou. XX., New SERIES. 


put more loam, the plants were turned out of their pots, 
and placed on this soil, and the ball of roots just covered 
with soil. As the roots gradually work to the outside of 
the mound more soil is added, always using rough sods 
and charcoal upon the table. The soil for the additional 
earthings, which must always be warmed, should be as 
rough as possible and without manure; and merely add 
about 2 inches in thickness at a time at the outsides of the 
mounds only, as the surface of the bed is not raised above 
the original height, which is about 1 foot from the table. 
By this method the plants do not rush into rampant 
growth at first, and when fruited quickly do not decline, 
as I have frequently seen them do, but the growth from 
first to last is sturdy and short-jointed; the additions of 
soil given them keeping the strength and fruiting powers 
of the plants in due proportion to the number of Cucumbers 
produced. 

As the plants of the second sowing require space on 
the trellis, those in the pots are reduced, and ultimately 
removed, after having yielded a heavy crop of Cucumbers, 
every fruit that showed being taken from them. As the 
pots are removed, earthing is continued until the mounds. 
join and form one continuous bed about 2 feet 6 inches 
wide and 1 foot in depth, after which time very slight top- 
dressings of: sheep or deer dung, mixed with the loam, are 
given, and occasional waterings of liquid manure. I have 
had Cucumber plants continually fruiting in abundance 
for six months, although each plant throughout the season 
only received a barrowful of soil to grow in. 

The heat required for the young plants whilst in the 
6-inch pots is 60° at night; and when planted out, and 
throughout their fruiting, 65° at night will be sufficient ; 
in fact, with the long bright days of summer, the tempera- 
ture may be suffered to decline a few degrees below this 
at night, rather than use fire heat, provided the plants are 
not subjected to a continued depression of temperature. 
A slight amount of air should always be admitted, especially 
when fire heat is used, and be careful to introduce fresh 
air as early as possible in the morning, allowing the tem- 
perature to rise, but gradually, to from 85° to 90° whilst. 
the sun strikes fully on the house. Keep the atmosphere 
always moist by continued dampings, but only syringe the ~ 
plants once .a-day, shutting up and syringing very early in 
the afternoon, in fact as soon as the sun ceases to shine 
fully on the house or pit. This syringing should consist 
not of a slight damping only, but be a judicious saturation 
of everything within the house.—T. C. Sacz. 


CALCEOLARIAS FLOWERING LATE. 


I po not think it necessary to make any practical’ re- 
marks about taking off and putting in the cuttings, and 
their treatment during the autumn and winter months, as 
Mr. Eames, at page 179, has already given my practice 
during that time, with the exception that I put a little 
sand on the surface of the cutting bed. . 

About the end of March I prepare a trench 8 feet wide, 
and put 8 inches of dung along the bottom; I then mix 
with it about 4 inches of the soil. I lift the young plants 

No. 1173.—Von. XLV., Oup S5RIES, 


ar Hee 


210 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 23, 1871. 


——o——o——————————— errr ee 


with great care, and plant them in the trench at about 5 inches 
apart. After haying put in a number, I give them a good 
watering, and so proceed till the trench is filled. They remain 
until the 20th of May, and I have known it later. I never 
allow them at any time to become the least dry in the trench. 
Very often they show flower on some of the shoots; these I 
pinch off. I pinch all the shoots, once in the cutting bed and 
once in the trench. 

When I remove the plants to the flower garden, after plant- 
ing I give as much water as I think will saturate the ball, in 
order to prevent flagging, which is almost certain to follow if 
no water be given. In a short time they begin to show some 
more flowers, these I pinch off; no more pinching after that, 
but whenever I observe the surface of the soil becoming dry I 
have them watered. In very hot weather I often in the after- 
noons just damp them over with the waterpot and rose; 
they seem to like it, and they well repay me for the trouble. 
They continue flowering till the end of September, and if the 
weather at the beginning of October were not quite so wet and 
stormy they would look well later than that. Last year Mr. 
Eames’s favourite Kayii, atthe end of September, was as finely 
flowered as it was in August. For the last ten yearsI have 
never failed to have a good show of Calceolarias ; I have never 
had disease among them. Any plants that I lose after plant- 
ing out are lost through accidents. Ido not suppose out of 
a thousand plants I lose thirty, and these I make good again 
from a reserve stock kept for that purpose. 

Ido not believe that coddling, as it is called, has anything 
to do with the disease, as I have treated a few in that way 
once, but after I took them in hand I allowed them to receive 
no check, and they succeeded just as well as the others that 
were not coddled. I remember that about sixteen years ago, 
when the greenhouse varieties took the disease, the men who 
aged to grow some fine specimens before that time, afterwards 
entirely failed to procure anything like a specimen, and with 
just the same treatment that they gave to the fine plants they 
used to have. Ido not think the secret of the disease is yet 
found out.—James Surru, Fynone. 


THE SEXES OF FIGS. 


Some time ago I heard of an Englishman at Smyrna, who, 
on leaving home one morning, ordered that a large barren Fig 
tree which stood in his garden should be cut down. On re- 
turning he found the Kadhi and a large concourse of people 
round his house, and was told by the Kadhi that the tree must 
not be cut down, as it was a male one, and fertilised all the 
trees around. This story recalled to my mind a communication 
made some years ago to the Gardeners’ Chronicle, by M. Lennep, 
Dutch Consul at Smyrna, wherein he stated that the Aideen 
Fig, which produces the dried fruit of commerce, and also the 
Cassobar, were dicecious, while the Bardadgik is monecious. 
On the latter male flowers grow on the younger branches, and 
female on the older. When the tree becomes aged no more 


male flowers are produced. The male flowers open twenty or | 


thirty days before the female. Wild plants are said to produce 
no female blossoms until they are cultivated. 

Now, all this agrees with what Tournefort and all eastern 
travellers assert as to the necessity of caprification. In Eng- 
land this practice is thought unnecessary, and it is maintained 
that near the eye of the common receptacle, which we call the 
fruit, there are a few male flowers which fertilise the females 
lying below them. I ask, then, have no dicecious varieties ever 
been introduced into England, or is the casting of fruit, of 
which we have heard so much, sometimes owing to want of 
proper fertilisation? Or is the habit of the plant modified by 
our climate and culture? It is to be remarked that the genus 
Ficus is mostly dicecious. 

In order to get some further information on this subject, I 
wrote to a relative, now of Naples, but formerly of Smyrna, 

d the subjoined extract from the reply may probably be in- 
Pyentite! 

After stating that both in Italy and in Smyrna wild plants 
are male, and describing the well-known process of caprifi- 
cation, the letter says—‘' The wild Fig here has a partiality for 
stones and old buildings, which it soon converts into a heap of 
ruins. When the cultivated or female Fig has swollen to nearly 
its full size, they take a pointed stick like a toothpick, dip it 
in olive oil, and prick the Fig in the eye. This operation is 
performed on every fruit. Some say they are better flavoured 
without this operation, but I approve of it, for the unassisted 
Figs ripen later and become insipid from the rain which then 


falls. The variety most liked here resembles that most es- 
teemed in Smyrna, and probably came from the same country, 
as its name is Trojano. Its pulp is very light, and large 
quantities can be eaten without indigestion. But these Figs are 
impatient of climate. Inrainy weather they are watery, in dry 
weather they fall off immature. (Large Brown Ischia of Miller?)” 
“The only advantage which Smyrna has over Italy in the 
way of fruit, is in the Melons of Cassobar. There is also a 
village not far off which produces a honey far superior to the 
classic Hymettus. It is perfectly white, resembling an ice- 
cream, for which I took it the first time I saw it.”—G. S. 


MISCELLANEOUS NOTES. 
“ Variety’s the source of joy below, 
From which still fresh revolving pleasures flow.” 

i HAVE several times wished to make a few remarks on 
current topics in THe Journat or Horricuntrure, but have 
been so fully occupied, that I have not found time, but I send 
a few short notes. 

I feel nearly confident that Verbena disease, where it exists, 
is generally from too cold or too damp treatment. Verbenas 
require light and air sand warmth in the winter months, with 
moisture. A shelf in a medium-temperatured stove close to 
the light is as good a place in which to winter Verbenas as can 
be found. Spring-struck cuttings make better plants for bed- 
ding than any that have been kept over the winter, and it is 
better to have good-sized stock plants established in pots by 
early striking, than to wait for autumn to strike for winter. 
One good well-established plant in a 7-inch pot kept warm on a 
shelf, will produce more cuttings in spring than half a dozen 
store pots of cuttings, even if there are six or seven cuttings in 
a pot. 

A cold treatment of bedding plants is advocated on two 
accounts—one om account of economy, the other on the score 
of hardening the plants. I question both these points. Hun- 
dreds and hundreds of Geraniums have been lost this winter 
by keeping them in cold pits, when alittle fire heat would have 
saved the value of the plants. 2ndly. Plants are not hardened 
by the bare keeping-alive process; on the contrary, it takes 
weeks and months for them to recover. Geraniums, Verbenas, 
Ageratums, &¢., are not deciduous shrubs, and cannot but 
suffer both root and branch from being kept damp and cold, and 
shut up in brick pits covered over with boards and straw, &c. 

With fruit trees (to touch upon another point where there 
seem differences of opinion) it is different; being deciduous 
they can stand the winter out of doors in pots, provided the 
roots are covered, and not exposed to the action of frost. I have 
just brought in some fruit trees— Peaches, Nectsrines, and Plums 
—which had been plunged in a sheltered corner of the kitchen 
garden, and within ten days they were a sheet of beautiful 
bloom, and seem likely to set well. 

I quite agree with Mr. Kingsley, that the rule with all hot- 
water boilers should be, never to use anything but soft water. 
It is very easy to have a water-butt to catch water from the 
nearest building, and to have a self-feeding cistern regulated 
by a ball-cock to supply the boilers, so as to keep a steady 
supply without requiring attention. 

It is a common error to suppose that it indicates a rapid 
circulation in a boiler for the return-pipe to be much colder 
than the flow. This is a fallacy, because the easier the cir- 
culation, the quicker will the water return, and if the return- 
pipe is cold and yet the flow quick, it must require the furnace 
to be kept at an extreme heat for that difference to be obtained 
in the temperature of the water during its passage through the 
boiler. Whenever there isa very marked difference in the 
temperature between the flow and return, it is a sure sign that 
the boiler is overworked—i.c., there is too much area of piping, 
or else that it is badly set or inefficient, and there cannot be a 
worse sign for a boiler for night purposes, than to find the 
average difference between the flow and return is great, be- 
cause as soon as the fire begins to slacken the pipes would cool 
down rapidly. Another common error, is to see 2-inch pipes, 
and even less, used for the junctions into the boiler both flow 
and return. It ought to be borne in mind that four times as 
much water could be run through a 4-inch pipe in a given time 
than through a 2-inch pipe, and there is no greater check for 
the circulation than this sudden change from a 4 toa 2-inch 
return-pipe, as the whole circulation of the water depends 
merely on the, difference of weight between heated and super- 
heated water. 

A word as to lapsin glazing. Last spring I built a double 


March 23, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


211 


mL 


span house with the glass slipping up in grooves without laps, 
and without putty. Ihave had no breakage from frost, and no 
drip. I took into the house an architect, who was incredulous 
on the subject, when it was raining fast with gusts of wind, 
and he could find no drip. If the slope is too flat, there will be, 
but if it is anything over 1 in 3, then any water which finds its 
way between the butted joints runs down inside, and the lower 
pane ought always to be free from the woodwork at the bottom, 
a space of one-quarter to half an inch being left for air, This 
adds also to the health of plants in the house, by causing a 
constant circulation of air. Breakage is caused from the iaps 
being too wide, not from the glass being wide. The wider the 
glass the more play it has, and it bends without breaking. I 
have had no breakage from frost in panes set 20 inches wide, 
even though their glass is only fourths, which Mr. Pearson con- 
demnsg. I would never use glass less than 21 oz. 

I have had a very practical proof this winter of the little 
frames described by Mr. Luckhurst. Cauliflower plants pricked 
out under them have never been in the least injured by frost, 
while Cabbage plants sown at the same time alongside, and not 
pricked out but left in the seed bed after thinning, are severely 
injured. The frames, glass included, only cost 8s. a-piece, 
10 feet long, 2 feet wide. I have had over a bed of Violets 
another frame, which has auswered thoroughly. Some earthen- 
ware seed pans sent me by Mr. Looker, on trial, with glass 
over them, have also effectually kept some cuttings of Calceo- 
larias in the open ground with very little other protection, and 
I think they would be very valuable for small gardens. I still, 
however, prefer wooden frames with moveable glass, as the 
frames can be moved from one place to another without dis- 
placing the glass, and there is not the liability to breakage. 

Can any of your readers inform me how many spikes of bloom 
a Medinilla magnifica now in its third year, in a 10-inch pot, 
can carry with liberal treatment? Every shoot on the plant has 
shown flower-buds. I counted thirty-eight qn it. I have re- 
moved several, but many are now showing their racemes of 
flower, and I hardly know how many it is safe to leave. I 
have keen trying the Darwinian theory of natural selection, 
thinking the weakest would go to the wall, but it seems to me 
as if too many are staying on. 

I can strongly recommend Thunbergia Harrisii for winter 
blooming in the stove, and Linum trigynum for the greenhouse. 
The latter began to open its blooms with me in October, and 
the last are only just over now. Thunbergia Harrisii has been 
in bloom for three months, and I have had as many as twenty- 
eight fully expanded blooms at once. It has more buds on it 
now than ever, and it seems to me to be likely to be in bloom 
for two months more. Those of your readers who may not 
know it can best picture it to themselves by the flowers of 
Gloxinia Madame Schmidt, but the flowers are larger than any 
Gloxinia I have ever seen, of a soft pale blue, with a white 
throat, the blue something of the colour of Plumbago capensis. 
It is striking even when only four or five blooms are expanded, 
but when from twenty to thirty are open at once, it is one of 
the prettiest stove climbers I know. My plant is about 3 feet 
6 inches high, and 18 to 20 inches through, and is only a little 
more than a year old. 

I wish Mr. Pearson would give us another chapter or two 
on horticultural fallacies; there are plenty which are being 
perpetuated, and many prejudices to be overcome—as, for in- 
stance, syringing spoiling the bloom of Grapes; damp may do 
so ina cold house, but I syringed some bunches of Alicante 
hard with a hydronette every day for weeks, and never saw 
bunches with finer bloom; and some Prince of Wales Peach 
trees in a pot having become dusty, I syringed them as hard as 
I could for two or three days, when they were nearly ripe, with- 
out ever injuring the bloom. Many persons allow their Peathes 
and Nectarines to be infested with red spider, fearing lest the 
use of the syringe when the fruit is ripening, should injure the 
bloom. If only pure soft water is used no harm will be done.— 
C. P. Pzacu. 


RAISING AND PLANTING-OUT SUCCESSFULLY 
EARLY PEAS. 


Tue article at page 157 gave me great pleasure, as I have 
had my early Peas more or less injured for several seasons by 
rats, mice, pheasants, pigeons, or the inclemency of the weather. 
This season I have, so far, surmounted these difficulties by 
adopting a similar method to that recommended hy Mr. Mackel- 
lar, differing only in a few minor points, which may be of use 
to some who cannot procure boxes. 


On the 13th of January I had a lot of tough slightly decayed 
sods cut about 24 feet in length and 6 inches in width, and 
placed closely together on a vinery border where the tempera- 
ture was about 65°. After having a sufficient quantity conveyed 
to the vinery, I had the inverted turves raked with a sharp- 
toothed rake to loosen and prepare the surface for the seed. 
After the Peas were sown on the turf, I had the whole covered 
with suitable soil and lightly pressed with a spade. In about 
ten days the young Peas were through the soil, and when about 
2 inches high (January 30th), I had them removed to a turf 
pit, where they were kept close for a few days, and then gradu- 
ally inured to the ccld. On the 15th of February I had them 
planted on a well-prepared south border, and staked, at the 
same time having a few twigs of Silver Fir outside the stakes 
to protect the Peas. They now seem quite out of danger, and 
are looking remarkably well. The variety is Dickson’s First 
and Best. I think where narrow boards can be procured, they 
are preferable to boxes.—W. Osporne, Fota Island, Co. Cork. 


A FLORIST’S NOTES AT SOUTH KENSINGTON. 


Manrce 15ra. 


No such show of Hyacinths as we have been accustomed to 
see; the Society’s prizes were not so liberal as in former years, 
and the Dutch growers had not offered any this season, 80, a8 a 
necessary consequence, the display was by no means so great, 
and had it not been for the very extensive collection beautifully 
staged by Mr. William Paul, would have been very small in- 
deed. But the quality was admirable; it was something to see 
Mr. Cutbush, who has won his laurels so very often, thoroughly 
and well beaten by a new competitor, Messrs. Veitch & Sons, 
of Chelsea. Anything finer or more beautifully finished than 
their group of eighteen I have never seen. Garibaldi was mag- 
nificent, as were also La Grande Resemblance, Koh-i-Noor, and 
Grand Lilas. Messrs. Cutbush had a beautifully-grown group, 
but certainly not equal to the preceding. Macaulay was the 
finest specimen I have ever seen of this variety, so apt often to 
throw its head on one side; but this was exceptionally grand. 
The class for eighteen white Hyacinths failed, as I thought 
it would ; in both collections were flowers which were certainly 
not white, while I believe it would have been impossible to 
have shown the difference between some of the varieties, so 
exactly alike were they. Of new varieties there was nothing 
to my mind at all worthy of notice, though several of them 
received first-class certificates; why, I cannot say. It seems 
to be somewhat absurd to ‘‘ decorate ” flowers which are inferior 


| to those already in cultivation, and which, moreover, pass away 


from notice for many long years to come. My friend, Mr. 
Douglas, came forward as an exhibitor of Hyacinths, and took 
the place he invariably does when he essays anything, carrying 
off the first prize. I had thought of competing, but the trouble 
of bringing the plants up to London would have been so great, 
that I abandoned it, and I certainly should have been beaten. 

I believe I have already somewhere mentioned Marquise de 
Castellane as one of the best Hybrid Perpetuals of last year; 
any doubt as to the correctness of such an opinion would have 
been dissipated by the sight of a beautiful set of plants of it ex- 
hibited by Mr. H. Bennett, Manor Farm Nursery, Salisbury. I 
should, probably, best describe it as a pink Baronne de 
Rothschild, a little fuller than that variety. It is very free 
flowering, and of a capital constitution. It was amusing to 
see growers asking one another how their stocks of it were, 80 
much did it strike every one as a variety of sterling merit. 

It can hardly be said that the Amaryllis is a florists’ flower, 
yet it was asa florist that I regarded a fine seedling exhibited by 
Messrs. Veitch & Sons. It is called Chelsoni, a most brilliant 
crimson, shaded with scarlet, and with petals of the very finest 
form and substance. It received deservedly a first-class cer- 
tificate.—D., Deal. 


Messrs. Cursusn’s SHow oF SPRING-FLOWERING Puants.—We 
have again to direct attention to one of those pretty exhibitions of 
spring-flowering plants with which Messrs. Cutbush annually gratify 
the visitors to the Crystal Palace. This year the arrangement is 
different from that of previous years, less formal, and more pleasing. 
The Hyacinths and Tulips, which are the leading feature, are inter- 
spersed among plants of suitable height, the whole forming a sloping 
bank on both sides of the middle of the tables, of which there are two, 
each 50 feet long, with a circle between them, making a neat centre. 
The middle of the oblong stages is occupied with a row of pyramidal 
Tvies, Azaleas, and taller-growing subjects, and the interval between 
these and the front is filled up with Epacrises, Spirea japonica, 


212 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 23, 1872. 


Deutzias, Gueldres Roses, Ferns, and a great variety of other subjects. 
The centre is appropriately crowned with a Dicksonia in an elevated 
vase, and rising to this from the front are circular bands of Ferns, 
Hyacinths, Tulips, Spirea japonica, Narcissus, and erect-growing 
Arbor-Vitz. The exhibition commenced on Saturday last, and will be 
continued till the 1st of next month. 


ROYAL BOTANIC SOCIETY'S SPRING SHOW. 


Tue first spring Show of this Society commenced yesterday, and 
will be continued to-day. As before, it is held in the samelong narrow 
tent under the lee of the conservatory, and the Roses, Hyacinths, 
Tulips, and Cyclamens which constitute the larger part of the display, 
present a very gay appearance. There are, besides, forced shrubs, 
greenhouse plants, and miscellaneous collections giving considerable 
variety ; and the Conservatory, in which the Orchids and some other 
subjects of exhibition are placed, lends no inefficient aid, as it is more 
than usually well furnished with flowering plants. It may here be re- 
marked, that the new wing of this building, long contemplated, is now 
completed. 

In Hyacinths, Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, had no competitors; after 
their recent triumphal début at Kensington no one was willing to enter 
the lists against them, and, as a matter of course, they carried off the 
first prize with splendid examples of Vuurbaak, General Havelock, 
Alba Maxima, Ida, King of the Blues, Leviathan, Haydn, Lord 
Byron, Macaulay, La Grandesse, Feruck Khan, and Garibaldi. They 
send in addition a very fine collection, for which an extra prize was 
awarded. In the amateurs’ class the prizes went to Mr. Weir, gar- 
dener to Mrs. Hodgson, Hampstead, Mr. Douglas, gardener to F. 
Whitbourn, Esq., and Mr. Stephenson, Bow, all of whom have for the 
most part good spikes. The schedule stated simply ‘12 Hyacinths,” 
without stipulating that these should be of distinct varieties. The 
first-prize twelve contained two Charles Dickens S.B., and the third- 
prize twelve four Grandeur a Merveille, two Charles Dickens, and two 
Gigantea. Surely such cannot be the intention of the schedule, what- 
ever the letter of it may be, but by the letter of the schedule the Judges 
had to award the prizes. It would be well in future years to add 
“* distinct sorts,” otherwise some one may exhibit twelve pots of one 
Kind. Only two new Hyacinths are shown, both named Princess 
Louise, one being a single white from Messrs. Veitch, the other a 
double red from Mr. William Paul. Each had a first-class certificate. 
Mr. William Paul also exhibits, not for competition, a very extensive 
and fine collection of Hyacinths, Tulips, and Narcissus, for which 
extra prizes were awarded. 

In Tulips, Messrs. Veitch are the only exhibitors in the nursery- 
men’s class for twelve pots of four kinds, taking the first prize with 
Rose Applati, White Pottebakker, Cramoisie Royal, and Vermillon 
Brillant. In the amateurs’ class the prizes go to Messrs. Searle, 
Weir, and Stephenson. 

Cyclamens from Mr. James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., Mr. 
Goddard, gardener to H. Little, Esq., Twickenham, and Mr. Ed- 
monds, nurseryman, Hayes, are fine, and prizes were awarded in the 
order of the names, Mr. Edmonds in addition receiving first-class cer- 
tificates for a large-flowered rosy-purple variety called Giganteum, and 

diflornm, white. 

Roses in pots from Messrs. Paul & Son consist of Céline Forestier, 
Duke of Edinburgh, Elie Morel, and Dr. Andry excellently bloomed, 
especially the first two. For these the first prize was awarded. Messrs. 
Paul & Son likewise have several new kinds, of which one called 
Climbing Victor Verdier, of very vigorous growth, had a first-class 
certificate. Roses in pots are likewise exhibited in the miscellaneous 
class by Messrs. Paul & Son and Messrs. Veitch; those from the latter 
in small pots are exceedingly beautiful. 

Chinese Primulas come from Mr. Goddard and Mr. James, who each 
take a place in the prize list; and Mr. W. Paul was awarded a first- 
class certificate for his fine white variety called Waltham White. For 
Cinerarias Mz. James and Mr. G. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Gold- 
smid, Bart., are prizetakers; and so are Messrs. Goddard, Weir, and 
Searle for Lily of the Valley. 

Of Deutzias Messrs. Lane, of Great Berkhampstead, have plants of 
D. gracilis 2 feet in diameter and the same in height, beautiful masses 
of blossom. For these a first prize was given, the second going to 
Mr. G. Wheeler; and for other forced shrubs the same exhibitors 
take the same relative positions, Messrs. Lane haying along with Ber- 
beris Darwinii, Rhododendrons Prince Camille de Rohan and Fayour- 
ite, forming fine masses of floyers though in small pots. Of Azaleas 
excellent specimens are shown by Messrs. Lane and G. Wheeler, and 
the latter also receives a first prize for twelve greeenhouse plants in 
flower, including a well-bloomed Acacia Drummondi, and a large Eri- 
ostemon and Chorozema. 

Miscellaneous collections come from Messrs. Veitch, Mr. Williams, 
of Holloway, Messrs. Rollisson, of Tooting, Messrs. A. Henderson and 
Co., Mr. Wheeler, and Mr. Ware, and comprise Palms, Dracenas, 
Orchids, Azaleas, Camellias, Amaryllids, &e.; and as extra prizes are 
awarded to the whole of the exhibitors we need not particularise. 

_ Botanical certificates were awarded te Messrs. Veitch for the Abys- 
sinian Primula Boveana noticed last week, and Acropera species; to 
Messrs. A. Henderson & Co. for Ficus lanceolata ; to Messrs. Rollisson 
for Davallia clavata; and to Mr. Williams for Aucuba Iuteo-carpa. 
First-class certificates were awarded to Messrs. Veitch for Hippeastrum 


Chelsoni, Leopoldii, maculatum, and Brilliant; the first two have 
been already noticed in our pages; the last two are also very fine 
scarlet varieties, with somewhat of the spotting of H. pardinum te- 
wards the base of the petals. 


VARIEGATED NATIVE PLANTS. 


SEDUM ACRE AUREUM.—This, the most beautiful of all the 
British Sedums, is a Kentish variety, and originated in a sport 
of one small shoot in a cottage garden at the base of Shooter’s 
Hill, near Blackheath. I wintered it in a cold frame, and it 
grew rapidly during last summer. It wiil be one of the most 
charming companions possible for Sedum glaucum in miniature 
alpine scenery, being throughout the season of a yellow tint, 
and will look well and keep its character all the year round. 
The variety usually called Sedum acre aureum will certainly 
have to abdicate in its favour; this, Sedum glaucum, An- 
tennaria tomentosa, and Thymus citriodorus aureus with its 
rich golden yellow tints, are four plants it will be difficult to 
match for special purposes amongst all the numerous families 
of alpine plants now in cultivation. Antennearia tomentosa 
and Sedum glaucum are suitable plants to represent snoweappea 
mountains. Sedum acre aureum, with the deeper golden- 
tinted Thymus citriodorus aureus, may be said to be fit to give 
a warmer colouring to the sunlit slopes of alpine valleys; and £ 
think we may congratulate ourselves on securing for this 
charming style of gardening such valuable acquisitions as these 
new plants. I must confess to a weakness for the natural 
style of gardening so ably carried out at Battersea under that 
prince of decorative gardeners Mr, Gibson, who is introducing 
some still bolder imitations of natural scenery in the shape of 
rugged crags, which will adda grand feature to that Mecca of 
the flower gardener. 

HELIANTHEMUM VULGARE VARIEGATUM.—On the sunniest banks 
and the most arid crags may be found luxuriating that beauti- 
ful British plant Helianthemum vulgare; it will also grow well 
in any ordinary flower border. It is very easily propagated in 
sandy soil, in a cold frame, during the months of July and 
August, along with the many beautiful double and single gar- 
den varieties ; but the variety to which I wish to call attention 
is a form of the ordinary wild H. vulgare, and it is certainly a 
gem of the first water. The foliage is evenly margined with 
bright yellow, and it will prove one of the very best plants for 
the sunny rockery or any other very exposed and arid situa- 
tion. I discovered this plantin Buckinghamshire last summer ; 
it is a sport, but from what I can see, it will be permanent.— 
W. E., Cromwell House. 


HINTS ABOUT HEATING WITH HOT 
WATER. 


I wovxp say to those who may contemplate changing their 
boiler, whether from its being worn out or not being large 
enough—perhaps through adding a greater length of piping— 
before you purchase a new boiler be sure you have the correct 
measurement of the pipe. In measuring, if you have 2-inch 
pipes, the quantity must be divided by 2 to bring it to the 
required length of 4-inch pipe, if 3-inch pipes, deduct one- 
fourth. Should there be any likelihood of additional houses 
being built, it is well to have a larger boiler than is absolutely 
required, for I find from my own experience here that it takes 
proportionally less fuel to heat a lerge boiler than it does for a 
small one. I therefore prefer one large to two small boilers. 
In many cases the cause of boilers not giving satisfaction, is 
their being too small: a boiler sent out by the maker as cal- 
culated to heat 300 feet of pipe, cannot be expected to heat 
500 feet of pipe. I had a boiler which was sent out as capable 
of heating 350 feet of pipe, and the length of this was 570 feet > 
the consequence was that when the frost was severe or likely to 
be so, a man had to be up all night; and I remember that on 
geyeral occasions during December, 1869, though the water 
was boiling, there was not sufficient power to keep up the re- 
quired heat. E 

In setting the boiler give the flue plenty of room; in my 
ease the flue over the boiler is 5 inches, running intoa flue 
12 inches by 9 inches. b 

When putting up a Jones’s terminal saddle boiler I made what 
Ieonsidered a decided improvement, by adding a dead plate 
5 inches in width in front of the bars, and striking an arch of 
firebrick level with the boiler inside, this being independent of 
the flue over the boiler. The improvement is at once visible, as 


March 23, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


213 


Tam enabled to have a larger fire, and the fire heats the water 
with greater ease than it would otherwise do, for it plays on 
the boiler at once. Without my dead plate I could not have so 
large a fire; the boiler could not be heated so well, because 
however much fire were put on, the kody of it could not be 
made to play on the front of the boiler as by my plan. This, 
of course, will make no difference as to the amount of fuel 
g@onsumed, as when once the heat is obtained the draught can 
be reduced by closing the damper, but it certainly brings the 
heat up to the requisite degree much more quickly—a great de- 
sideratum, besides retaining the heat much longer. I consider 
Jones’s terminal saddle boilera boon to gardeners; certainly 
T have found it so, though I do not say it is the best boiler, but 
it can be set where many others could not. § 

Another of my additions is a damper in front of the boiler, 
besides the four side ones, as I hold that it is very essential 
to keep the top of the boiler free from soot. The damper in 
the flue is placed 6 feet from the back of the boiler, the frame 
of the damper being securely set in brickwork to make it firm; 
and I find, after several experiments, that it acts better to have 
it at that distance than nearer the boiler. Certainly I would 
not be without this damper, though I have a slide in the ash- 
pit door. My reason for haying a damper in the flue is, that 
on a frosty morning, after the fire has been raked clean and 
stirred up (adding a little fuel) assoon asthe fire is fairly burning 
I gradually push the damper in, so as to concenirate the heat 
about the boiler. When making up the fire for lasting all 
night, I first of all secure the required heat, and when this 
is done, I put on a few shovelfals of fuel, shutting both the fire 
and ash-pit doors, and, lastly, regulating the damper and the 
slide according to the weather. 

The-slide in the ash-pit door is another useful adjunct to the 
boiler. When fully open the space is 3 inches square, and when 
Tleave the fire at night I put double the quantity of draught 
on the flue as compared to that at the slide. Thus, if I leave 
3 inches of slide open, which I do on a severe night, I leave out 
the damper in the flue 6inches. Both the fire door and the 
ash-pit door should fit as closely as possible, and the ash-pit 
should be kept clear. I find that it is most convenient in the 
morning, when the fire is started, to have a basket and put the 
ashes in at once, and by that time one can see how the fire is 
going on. When once the fire is thoroughly started, rather 
than put the poker in to stir the live fire about, I would with 
the poker gently prick the dust oui from between the bars 
underneath. 

The bars, being tubular, add to the heating power, and reduce 
clinkering to the lowest point; in fact, I might without ex- 
aggeration say there are no clinkers. I would advise those 
who have the old style of bars to make their ash-pit waterproof 
by cement, and to keep regularly 1 or 2 inches of water in it. 
When a fire clinkers, half of the heat is lost. Itis of the 
utmost importance to keep the boiler clean outside and inside 
by clearing soot away regularly, and running off a portion of 
the water every week. Great care is needed to keep the side 
flues of the boiler free from all obstruction, but this will soon 
be found out by those who have to work a boiler of the de- 
scription referred to. I make up the fire at 9.30 p.m., and 
deave it without further attention till 6 o’clock next morning; 
and though we have had a long continuance of severe frost, 
T always find a good fire in the morning, and plenty of heat in 
the pipes. 

The fuel used by me in winter is generally coal slack 
and gas coke in equal proportions, as I believe I obtain a 
‘stronger heat from this mixture than from coke alone, and a 
fire quicker. In summer, when firing is but little required, I 
use coke, the smoke from slack being objectionable, though I 
‘believe the fames from coke are more injurious to vegetation 
than those from coal. ; , 

I also attach great importance to having air taps at the 
highest points of the different houses. I will only say that I 
have had no less than six such air taps put in since I came 
here, believing it to be impossible to heat a long range of 
houses on different levels without the aid of such taps. - 

I now come to the quantity of fuel consumed in four months. 
From September 9th, 1870, to January 9th, 1871, I burnt six 
tons of slack and coke, the price of which delivered was 8s. 4d. 
per ton. For the corresponding period of 1869-70, with a 
double boiler—that is,!one boiler flat above the other—I do not 
know the exact name of the kind, but it is square; some call 
it a Dutch-oven boiler—I consumed eight tons of fuel. Sol 
have saved two tons of fuel besides obtaining extra heat, not 
0 mention the increased comfort in working the boiler. The 


lowest temperatures which I have maintained in my houses this 
winter, have been in the fernery, 55°; in the early vinery, 40°; 
in the late vinery, 38°; in the Melon pits used for keeping 
bedding plants, 36°. I give the above readings as the lowest 
there have been for the last month. I feel confident Jones’s boiler 
is capable of doing more than I have yet required of it. The 
SouseryatOry, being adjoining the house is heated from its own 
oiler. 

In conclusion, I may remark that however good a boiler may 
be, it will not be satisfactory if it be not large enough for the 
work required. Also, that such a boiler cannot be kept going 
without sufficient fuel__Srrruun Castur, Bent Hill Gardens, 
Prestwich. 


CALCEOLARIA CULTURE. 


In August I commence propagating ; for this purpose I use 
shallow boxes or trays 2 feet long, 18 inches wide, and 3 inches 
deep, with twelve holes half an inch in diameter, bored through 
the bottom. The soil I employ is a mixture of equal parts of 
turf two or three years old, and well-decayed cow dung finely 
chopped with the point of the spade, not riddled or sifted, the 
whole well mixed, placed in the boxes, and pressed firm, 
crocks and sphagnum moss being put into the box previously. 
About half an inch of river sand is spread over the surface, 
leaving a space of about half an inch from the surface of the 
sand to the edge of the box for watering. The cuttings are 
next inserted, and well closed with a small dibber kept for the 
purpose of propagating; they are then watered and placed in a 
cold frame with ashes at the bottom. They are kept during 
the day slightly shaded, and air is allowed to pass freely 
through the frame, except at night. 

When the cuttings have struck and made about an inch of 
growth, I stop them; this stopping very soon produces three 
or four side shoots, and as soon as they are perceptible, I re- 
move the plants to the orchard house (span-roof), and place them 
on a shelf in the centre of the house, at about 2 feet from the 
glass. They require to be stopped again about Christmas. As- 
soon as March has set in, I again remove them to the cold 
frame, and gradually harden them till the beginning of April, 
when I take off the lights entirely, and expose the plants to 
the weather night and day. If the plants are in the least 
inclined to be leggy, I head them again, but never after the 
middle of March. In the size of boxes mentioned, I put five 
dozen cuttings for bedding ont, or three dozen for pot culture. 
I never stop them more than twice, and not after Christmas. 
I use liquid manure to plants for both purposes. 

The kinds I grow are Amplexicaulis and Aurea floribunda. 
The latter is my favourite variety, it has so many good qua- 
lities, and it is the best for pot work. 

The plants are bedded out from the boxes, and generally 
take all the soil from the box with them. The turf should be 
gritty, such as is obtained from road sides; if it is not suffi- 
ciently so, river sand may be added.—Joun C. Lewis, Sudbury, 
Derby. 


Wees’s Iupertsn Porato.—In the article on Potatoes by 
“D., Deal,” Webb’s Imperial, alias Dawe’s Matchless, alias 
Glory of England, are mentioned. I tried some once, in 1865 ; 
my experience entirely coincides with that of “D., Deal,” 
excepting in the flavour, which I found excellent, it being so 
considered by many friends who partook of them. I found one 
decided disadvantage, their being very much blighted on being 
dug up. The crop was enormous, the tubers immense, for the 
most part, but nearly helf rotten. My soil is chalk and rock, 
with but little mould, though that is very rich. A SuEscRIBER 
or Twetye YEARS. 


PEACHES IN THE NORTH. 


A CORRESPONDENT, at page 163, says, ‘‘ We haye now a 
smallish white Peach sent as a Noblesse (which it is not), that 
is delicious.” Iam rather interested in Peaches doing well in 
the north, and would like to ask Mr. McCulloch if the Peach 
noticed above is not the Malta? also, What is the altitude of 
the place where they are grown? I have a fow Peach trees 
here on walls (the general altitude of the place is about 600 feet 
above the sea-level); amongst others I have Acton Scot and 
Malta. The Acton Scot I consider very valuable, as it just 
ripens in time to prevent a blank between the house Peaches 
and those grown outside; while the Malta is the very latest, and 
is of as good flavour as the Acton Scot. I had dishes of very 


214 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 23, 1871. 


a 


good-flavoured Peaches of the former up to the 15th of last 
October. The remarks on the other varieties I can quite en- 
dorse, as they are all grown here.—J. W. K. 

[The white Peach referred to in ‘J. W. K.’s” letter does 
not agree with the description of the Malta given in Dr. Hoge’s 
‘« Fruit Manual,” being neither ‘large’? nor ‘‘ blotched with 
dull purple next the sun.” 

The garden here is about 30 feet above the level of the sea, 
distant one mile as the crow or the bee flies, but considerably 
protected from the breeze by a hill between the garden and 
the sea which rises to the height of 250 feet above its level. 
The tide here flows in from the north from what is called the 
Galf Stream. By the ‘‘ Weather Report” of the Times it will 


be seen that from February 25th till March 3rd inclusive, the 
temperature at the towns in the north of Scotland was milder 
than at those on the south coast of England. At Thurso, on 
the 3rd of March, the thermometer registered 60° at 2 p.m. 
Here, on March 2nd, it stood at 62° at 12 noon. Nairn, about 
twenty miles distant, is the nearest town to us from which the 
Times gives a report, and our climate is considered a little 
milder than that of Nairn. The atmosphere is usually very 
dry. White Wheat is the staple produce of the country. 

Perhaps unfortunately, some Apricot trees in this neigh- 
bourhood have been in blossom ever since the 3rd. We have 
had a large Rhododendron atrovirens of great beauty in blos- 
som for ten days.—Joun McCuuuocu, Duffus, Elgin. ] 


GROUND LEVELLING AND PRACTICAL GARDEN PLOTTING.—No. 14. 
DRAWING PLANS. 


To draw and transfer fig. 37 to the ground, erect square 
ABCD, and draw the diameter lines EF and gc 8, also the 
diagonal lines 4candsp. Draw lines connecting points & G, 
GF,FH,anduHe. Drawlines1 2, 23,34, 41, also 5 6, 67, 
78,and85. Draw lines 910, 1011, 1112,and129. There 
are four squares drawn within each other; the space between 
the lines is 4 feet. On the diagonal lines ac and B p draw the 
squares as shown 
in the following 
manner: — Where 
line F H crosses dia- 
gonal line B c place 
one point of the 
dividers ; open the 
dividers and place 
the other point as 
in the point m; on 
the diagonal line 
BC prick the paper 
lightly, turn the 
dividers round and 
prick the paper as 
at points n and ik; 
draw a line from 


5, 10, and 15 feet, and insert pegs as at points 2, 6, and 10. 
From the stake Fr measure 5, 10, and 15 feet, and insert pegs 
as at points 3,7,and11. From the stake at point H measure 
5, 10, and 15 feet, and insert pegs as at points 4, 8, and 12. 
Lay lines connecting the pegs at points 12, 23, 34, 41, also 
lay connecting lines between points 5 6, 67, 78, 8 5, and be- 
tween points 910, 1011, 1112,and129. The four squares 
are lined one within 
the other. Where 
the line laid from 
the stake at point 
F to the stake at 
points H crosses the 
diagonal line B D, 
insert & peg as 
shown by the smalk 
circles. On each 
side of the stake at 
points F H measure 
12 feet, and insert 
pegs as at points k 
and mj; measure 
12 feet on the dia- 
gonal line towards 


point k& to point m, 
and from point m 
to pointn. Where 
line 3 4 crosses the 
diagonal line BD 


B, and insert a peg 
asatpointm. Lay 
lines joining points 
km, m n, the line 
is H& mn and F. 
Where line 3 4 


place the dividers 
as before, and prick 
the paper as at 
points g, h, and 7; 
draw lines from 
point g to h, and 
from h to i. Where 
line 7 8 crosses the 
diagonal line BD 
place the dividers 
as before, and prick 
off points d, e, f. 
Draw lines de and 
e f. Where line 
11 12 crosses the 
diagonal line B D 
place the dividers 
as before, and mark 
off points a, b,c; 
draw lines a b and bc; draw the inside square, allowing the 
sixth part of an inch, or 4 feet for the walk. Draw the corre- 
sponding squares in the same manner, then draw the four 
rectangular beds in the centre, also the square, and to make 
the design complete, draw lines 13 14, 15 16, 17 18, 19 20, and 
lines 7 s,t u,v w, and zy. 

To transfer the plan to the ground, construct the square A B 
CD, the distance between A and being 84 feet. Lay the dia- 
meter lines r F and G4, algo the diagonal lines acandz ov. 
Lay a line from the stake at point = to the stake at point c, the 
distance between which is 67 feet; also lines connecting c F, 
FH,andHE. From the stake at point £, on line H F, measure 
5 feet, and insert a peg as at point 1; again, on the same line 
from the stake at point = measure 10 feet, and insert a peg as 
at point 5; also from the same stake measure 15 feet, and 
insert a peg as at point 9. From the stake at point c measure 


Fig. 87. Scale 24 feet to the inch. 


crosses the diagonal 
line B D insert a 
peg; on each side 
of that peg on line 
34 measure 10 feet, 
and insert pegs as 
at points g and 7; 
on the diagonal line 
measure 10 feet, 
and insert a peg as 
at point h; lay 
lines connecting 
pegs g h, h i, the 
line is 4g hi3. 
Where line 7 $ 
crosses the diagonal 
line BD insert a 
peg; on each side 
of the peg measure 10 feet, and insert pegs as at points d and f; 
measure 10 feet on the diagonal line towards the centre, and 
insert a peg as at point ce; then lay a line from peg d to peg e, 
and from peg e to peg f, the line is Sdef7. Where line 11 12 
crosses the diagonal line B p insert a peg; on each side of the 
peg measure 11 feet 6 inches, and insert pegs as at points a 
and c; on the diagonal line measure 11 feet 6 inches, and 
insert a peg as at point b; lay a line from peg a to peg b, and 
from peg 0 to peg c, the line is 12abc1l. Find the square 
in the centre, the side of which is 10 feet. In the same 
manner find the corresponding points on the same line next 
top. Also on the diagonal line a c insert a peg at each point, 
and lay lines as before. On each side of the diameter lines 
E Fand G 4H, as from points 1, 3 and 2, 4, measure 2 feet, and 
insert pegs as at points 00 and oo. Lay a line connecting 
these pegs, which will cut the end of the beds and leave & 


March 23, 1871. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


215 


space of 4 feet for the walk. Oa each sido of the stake at 
point 4 measure 6 feet, and insert a peg as at point 13, also at 
point 19. On each side of stake B measure the same distance, 
and insert pegs as at points 15,20. From c find points 16 ana 
18, and inserts pegs; also from p find points 14 and 17, and 
insext pegs. Lay lines connecting points 13 14, 15 16, 17 18, 
19 20, also points 7s, tu, vw, andaz y; the latter lines will be 
found to cut the ends of the side beds. Find the centre square, 
the side of which is 7 feet; also find the four rectangular beds, 
the sides of which are 7 and 15 feet respectively. Insert pegs 
at the corners, and lay lines completing the figure. The lines 
arg intended for Box edging; B, beds; w, walks; v, vase.— 
M. O’Donnetu, Gardener to E. Leeming, Esq., Spring Grove, 
Richmond. 


PUZZLING THE SPARROWS. 


Liyvine in the outskirts of Oxford, having a garden of about 
an acre, and being surrounded by houses,*my greatest enemies 
have been house sparrows. The cooks at these houses make the 
practice of feeding the birds, so, of course, I have more than 
wanted to visit me. When my Peas, Radishes, &c., have been 
up, these young gentlemen soon make their appearance and 
destroy everything. Of course I have no netting to go over all 
the garden. I have tried everything that can be mentioned, 
such as sawdust, cotton rags, glass, &., but this year I am 
pleased to say I have beat them. 

I make a practice of sowing Peas between Potatoes, so, there- 
fore, they are far apart. I bought some crow-string, of which 
you get twelve balls for Is., and I have a small can with a 
spout. In this can I place the ball cf string, drawing the end 
of it through the spout. I first of all seo if the string will 
come out, s0 as not to get entangled; then I put in three sticks 
af one end and thres at the other end of a row of Peas. I 
commences my work by pouring some gas tar that has not 
been boiled into the can. I tie the string at one end, carry 
the can to the other, twist the string round the stick to and fro. 
After that I go away with comfort. 

My fruit trees have been subjected to the same protection by 
putting a tall stick at each end end each side, taking the string 
to and fro from top to bottom, and you would be surprised to 
sec a sparrow who has settled on the string! He flies away to 
the rest of them, and seems to mo to inform them of such 
treatment—the gas tar sticking to his feet, and not easily to be 
removed !—A F'Rrinnp Nor To SrarRows. 


HAND BOUQUETS. 

Ir is not without some misgivings that I address myself to a 
subject on which many opinions ‘exist, especially as my own 
may be at variance with much that is met with in actual prac- 
tice; but I am emboldened by the fact that on a former 
occasion several years ago, when I ventured to differ from what 
was almost the generally received opinion on a matter of orna- 
ment, and was condemned for doing so, I had the satis- 
faction of finding much that I said then was afterwards ap- 
proved of. I therefore venture once more to appear as a 
censor in s matter of which your fair readers, doubtless, think 
they ought to be considered the best judges, andI may, perhaps, 
suffer for my temerity. 

T shall commence the attack on what may be termed neutral 
ground. The architect and builder of a house, if it be a good 
one, are generally allowed some share of the credit, as well as 
tho owner, and they must expect to share the blame if it is 
otherwise than good. In alike manner, we, as directing the 
arrangement of some of Nature’s choicest ornaments, must not 
expect to come off scatheless, if we do our work in a clumsy and 
distasteful manner. Now, the very mention of the word taste 
carries with it so much that is controversial, that no one has 
yet been able to define properly what that term really includes, 
everyone setting up a standard for himself, for with the ex- 
ception of certain features of ornamentation derived from 
nations that have disappeared centuries ago, which features 
are but rarely attacked, there is nothing of modern date but 
what is made the subject of dispute. The buildings of the 
last century, however substantial and convenient they may be, 
are almost invariably condemned as defective in ornament, 
or where the latter has been attempted, it is said to be of an 
improper kind ; while, on the other hand, old castles, churches, 
and other structures of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, 
are almost worehipped, until, perhaps, it is accidentally found 
out that their erection took place at 2 more modern date; then 
their condemnation is ensured. Now there is something very 


much akin to this in gardening matters as well. A sort of 
compact scems to have been entered into of late years to expel 
from the flower garden and exhibition tents all but a tew 
orthodox members, and as a congequence a certain degree of 
sameness pervades both. This cannot justly be called taste, 
though it may be fashion; the one is like the laws of the Medes 
and Persians unalterable, the other may claim extraordinary 
consistency if it remain the same for twelve months, the laws 
that govern true taste being the same in all time—the same 
in 1871 as in 1831, or centuries before. 

Of late years flowers have been considered a necessary 
feature wherever other fine things xre. Churches on festive 
occasions are often decked with flowers, and in the graveyard 
flowers also play a conspicuous part. In the decoration of the 
rooms of the effluent flowers are ag much in request in some 
cases as furniture, and their ameliorating influence in our large 
towns is not sufficiently recognised. Witness the pleasure with 
which the ragged urchin from some confined garret gazes on 
the beantiful flower beds that adorn the London parks and 
many of those connected with other large towns, aud yet he 
does not injure them, although the innate desire he has for 
mischief would have found vent had these flowers been some- 
thing else; but to him they are sacred, he gazes at them, and 
admires them in his way, and passes on. Let us hope their 
presence may bring better things into his mind. Certain it is 
that wherever flowers make their appearance in a window, the 
visitor is sure to find peace and good will in that room; but I 
must not dwell further on this subject here, as my purpose is 
to find fault with flowers being placed where they ought not to 
be, or in a way not to be approved of. 

For many years, I may say centuries, before horticultural 
and other societies gave encouragement to well-arranged 
bouquets, these tokens of good feeling had existed under the 
modest but expressive title of nosegays :and if we searched 
into their early history it would most likely be found that they 
originated with children. No one who bas watched the play- 
ful actions of the young can have failed to observe the fondness 
they display for flowers, collectiug them with great assiduity, 
and evidently admiring them with all the relish of a connoisseur 
almost as soon as they can toddle alone ; years afterwards when 
their turn comes to attend the village school the girls may 
often be met with on a spring morning making up for their 
governess a nosegay that a royal gardener carnot excel. Prim- 
roses and Violets, with an outside bordering of the foliage of 
the latter, make one of the prettiest of all bouquets, and ex- 
ceeded by none in point of sweetness. The agreeable contrast 
these two flowers offer to each other cannot be surpassed, and 
their quiet and unassuming beauty is never excelled by the 
riches of tho flower garden in adyanced summer. I have often 
instanced these flowers as being the best from which a nosegay 
could be made, and one confined to them alone as a model of 
what a nosegay ought to be, not only because of the beautiful 
combination of colours, but from the fact of their seldom ex- 
ceeding those moderate dimensions to which I think all bouqnets 
intended to be carried in the hand ought to be confined. Here 
I expect to meet with much opposition from the fair sex, who 
assume to be the only jadges in such matters, but I nevertheless 
make the attack on those huge artificial bundles of flowers 
which they affect to prize so much, and some of which as ob- 
jects of manufacture are certainly deserving of great praise, 
but as objects of beauty there may be some difference of 
Opinion. On the equaily important point of utility there can 
be no question that the gize of hand bouquets often renders 
them an unwieldy appendage, but as fashion has ordained 
#0 they have to be, and one can only have the privilege of 
grumbling about them. Let us now endeavour to see in what 
way they can be made to serve the purposes for which they are 
required, and at the same time present the best appearance 
the materials will allow. 

At most horticultural shows of late years it has been the 
custom to offer prizes for the best bouquet for the hand, as 
well as one for the table; and here I shall confine myself to 
the first named. I have on some occasions acted as one of the 
judges in this department, and there is nothing, perhaps, ata 
show on which the judgment is more likely to be criticised. 
An experienced friend told me he would rather undertake a 
judge’s duties in avy department than in that of bouquets and 
Grapes, the difficulty in discriminating between the rival merits 
of specimens of the latter being as unpleasant as that arising 
from the different views which each one takes as to what should 
guide the censorship of bouquets. The critical eyes of the 
many {oir lookers-on in the after part of the day show that the 


216 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULLURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ March 23, 1871. 


bouquets are amongst the most attractive features at the show, 
and it is almost sure to happen that some—very possibly a 
large number—differ in opinion from the judges; sometimes, 
I believe, a protest has been entered against the decision—al- 
though I have not known any case of such being made—and 
of course where this is the case some unpleasantness is the 
result. Now, if bouquets were judged by some code of laws 
like that attempted to be laid down for judging Grapes, some 
reasons might be given for the decision. 
will be good enough to put forth a few ideas bearing on the 
matter, and by way of an introduction I beg to submit the 


following crude notions as to what I think ought to be borne | 


in mind when such things are placed before a judge. 


1. A hand bouquet must be made so as to be easily carried in all | 
positions in the hand withont any of its parts being disarranged when | 


it is turned upside down; and to prove this the judge to be at liberty 


to swing it sharply about in all directions in his hand, and if it will | 


not bear this ordeal, to reject it. 

2. The bouquet to be shown without any paper or other guard or 
bordering, excepting that of flower or foliage; the handle also not to 
be too thick, for the reasons given in Rule 1. 

3. No flower having a disagreeable smell to be used for a hand 
bouquet; where such exists the bouquet to be disqualified. N.B.—This 
rule need not be enforced in a stand of flowers for the table, unless it 
be thought advisable to do so. 

4, The quality of the flowers used—7.e., their rarity not to be taken 
into consideration unless the arrangement be equally good, or better 
than where common ones are used. 

5. No bouquet to be exhibited under a glass shade unless all are 
provided with this appendage, but the exhibitor may be allowed to 
keep one over his bouquet until requested to remove it prior to judging, 
not afterwards. 

6. Dried and Everlasting Flowers not to be mixed with fresh ones, 
and the same may be said of foliage. 

7. Flowers may be mounted on wire or other substance, but too 
much wirework ought not to be used, so as to indicate its presence by 
the weight of the bouquet. 


It is not assumed that the foregoing rules embody all that 
may be necessary, but I throw them ont as a sort of outline to 
be added to or amended as may be thought proper. At the 
same time let it be borne in mind that they are intended for 
guidance in judging hand bouquets, and not those for the table. 
The latter may have a more feathery outline, as they are not 
expected to be turned upside down, but the hard usage those 
for the hand have to undergo necessitates their being some- 
what formal and compact, and the overspreading sprig of 
Maiden-hair or other Fern which may be merely stuck in 
amongst the flowers of the table-stand ought to be firmly fixed 
in its place in the hand bouquet, otherwise it will be speedily 
displaced when the latter is brought into use; the judge ought, 
therefore, to ascertain this, and if it or any flower fall out 
when the bouquet is turned upside down, or subjected to such 
trials as a bouquet will in ordinary usage have to undergo, he 
is not expected to replace them, but to lay them by the side of 
the bouquet to show its defects to the public. 

Great size having been already spoken of as objectionable, 
the other extreme must also be avoided; but much weight 
ought to be given to an agreeable combination of colours, and 
in general the best effect is produced by the fewest varieties ; 
about three, or at most four, kinds of flowers with the necessary 
foliage, be it Ferns or anything else, are sufficient for most 
nosegays, and I am not certain but one or two kinds of flowers 
only would be better still. Formality, however objectionable 
in other combinations of flowers, is indispensable in a nosegay, 
otherwise it will not endure hard usage, and such flowers only 
as have stiff stems and are otherwise capable of enduring hard 
usage should be allowed to project beyond their fellows; the 
same may be said of foliage. The judge should be guided by 
what he would expect the bouquet to be after an hour in a ball- 
room, and not merely by what it is at the moment. 

Perhaps one class of bouquet may be in some degree exempt 
from the rather severe ordeal I have advised for the others, 
and that is the bridal bouquet; for a greater amount of care 
and gentle treatment is likely to be accorded to it, and it need 
not undergo the five minutes’ gyration [have sometimes thought 
others ought to do on the vanes of a windmill. Still I would 
insist on its veil of Fern, which seems an indispensable accom- 
paniment, being fixed so as not to come out when turned up- 
side down; and as custom has established the rule to confine 
this bouquet to white flowers only, I will in this instance find 
no fault with it, but may say that a liberal allowance of green 
is an improvement. Asa censor one must handle the bridal 
bouquet as well as the others, and if any of the contrivances 


Perhaps some one | 


used to mount the flowers be visible, or the handle too thick, 
or the whole too heavy, I would be disposed to judge unfavour- 
| ably of it, for no surroundings of lace, be it from Brussels or 
| still further off, can compensate for a bad arrangement of 
Nature’s choicest ornaments.—J. Rosson. 


| THE EFFECTS OF THE WINTER. 

WE are now, after some fine weather and sunshine, able to see 
| to the full extent the effects of the past winter upon vegetation 
| generally ; and I conclude, from what I have seen and read, 
that at other places though the cold has been as severe as in 
| the winter of 1860-61, there has not been so much damage done 
| among large trees of the Fir tribe. and large evergreens of dif- 
ferent kinds, as in that winter. The principal reason of this 
difference is, no doubt, from the winter of 1860-61 having 
occurred after a very wet summer and autumn, while last sum- 
mer was exceptionally dry, so that most plants would be more 
perfectly at rest, and, consequently, better prepared to bear the 
effects of a hard winter than in the winter of 1860. At this 
place (Hatfield), I have not known the thermometer fall below 
4°, or 28° below freezing, nevertheless this temperature has 
proved too severe for many things except evergreens; these 
and all the Fir tribe are as fresh as ever, and in the kitchen 
garden the most tender of the wall-fruit trees, such as Peaches, 
are not in the least injured. These and most other trees on 
walls are showing for bloom as well as anyone could wish; but 
many stools of Raspberries have been killed outright. 

Of green vegetables there is very little left alive; whole 
quarters of Broccoli have been killed to a plant, especially the 
plants which were large and growing luxuriantly, but a few 
that were planted late haye escaped, such being so dwarf as not 
to show any stem above ground. I have before noticed the 
fact, that late-planted Broccoli will often withstand the severe 
weather better than that planted early, owing, I conclude, to its 
being dwarf and compact, and the tender part of the stem just 
under the leaves which the frost attacks first being so well pro- 
tected by leaves. Those sorts of Broccoli which have stood the 
winter best are Parple Sprouting, Melville’s Dalmeny May, 
and Wilcove. Among Kales are Melville’s Variegated, Dwarf 
Green Curled, and Buda Kale. Brussels and Dalmeny Sprouts 
are uninjured. I may mention that a bed of some hundreds 
of the little Rosette Colewort, although growing close to some 
Watercress beds, and therefore always surrounded with water, 
have passed through the winter almost uninjured, while in a 
large bed of spring Cabbage standing on a dry bank there are 
hundreds killed. Again, there were two beds of Spinach sown, 
one in the early part of September and the other early in 
October ; the former has borne the severe weather well, and is 
now producing some good dishes, while the later-sown bed is 
worthless. For years I have practised sowing my principal 
bed of Winter Spinach in August ; it then yields a good pro- 
duce till the winter is far advanced, and at the same time gains 
strength to pass through the winter and yield again long 
before the later-sown bed. It is, however, always well to sow 
in October also, for besides providing against an extra demand, 
picking from this bed saves the other or winter bed from being 

‘exhausted so much as it would otherwise be. Celery has not 
been much injured, as it was earthed-up well and carefully, 
which is a great security, and the tops of the ridges were pro- 
tected with Fern and rough litter. The hardiest Celery has 
proved to be Veitch’s Silver White and the Incomparable 
Dwarf White, and among Reds Cole’s Defiance. If it were 
possible to always obtain the above sorts true, gardeners would 
require to grow no others. Veitch’s Silver White is a first-rate 
early Celery, next comes Defiance Red, and lastly, Incomparable, 
which is the hardiest of the three sorts—indeed, of any that I 
have grown. Henderson’s Conqueror is also a first-rate white 
sort. 

Doubtless, the severe winter will leave behind some valuable 
lessons to gardeners; one of the principal will, no doubt, be to 
provide some safer way of protecting the Broccoli crops—it is 
the one thing needful to gardeners. Ido not like the system 
of laying Broccoli which is practised at many places. I never 
could save so many in that way as by letting them stand as they 
grew. I say let them stand and receive the benefit of sun and 
air to harden their stems, and if much wet weather come before 
frost, which is often the case, they have a chance to dry, and 
will bear it better and longer withoutinjary. I never practised 
laying Broccoli until last autumn, and I am sorry for it, as they 
are all killed; itis among those not laid that any which have 

survived the winter are to be found. If a bed of Broccoli were 


March 28, 1871. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 


217 


growing too luxuriantly in autumn, I would rather cut the roots 
with a spade to check the growth than bury the stems in earth 
to become blanched and tender, and soddened with wet at the 
time frost comes on. What is the opinion of others on this 
point ?—Tuos. Recorp, Hutfield Park, Herts. 


Accorpine to Mr. Adderley’s remarks on the severe frost 
(seo page 66), it appears to have had more effect on vegetables 
in Kent than in some parts of Westmorland. My reason for 
delaying sending these notes has been that I wished to give the 
plants a fair trial with the heat of the sun upon them before 
coming to a conclusion as to which of the varieties have stood 
the winter the best. 

Shrubs are not in the least injured here. Asparagus Kale, 
Cottagers’ Kale, Cabbage Sprouts, and Brussels Sprouts have 
stood remarkably well. I commenced gathering Brussels 
Sprouts on the 16th of October, Cottagers’ Kale on the 20th of 
November, and Curled Kale on the 9th of December; I have 
done £9 daily ever since, and have still a plentiful supply. 
Veitch’s Late Curled Kale is very good, has borne the frost well, 
and does not seem any the worse, but the Dwarf Green Curled 
Kalo is killed. Of the various sorts of Broccoli which we grow, 
Knight’s Protecting, Dalmeny May, and Cattell’s Eclipse have 
stood the best. The soil in which they are growing is very 
light, they are exposed to the north winds, and have not had 
any artificial protection. The Broccoli is all standing as when 
planted, not laid-in. 

One of the most useful vegetables to me this winter has been 
the Leek, and it can be highly recommended when cultivated 
in the mode adopted here, which is as follows :—Dig a trench 
18 inches deep, allow 1 foot between the rows, and 6 inches 
between the plants. By earthing-them up, a length of about 
8 inches of the Leek is beautifully blanched, and makes a 
useful vegetable for winter, especially in a season like this. 
The most severe frosts, as registered by Negretti & Zambra’s 
thermometer, were, on January Ist, 20° of frost; on the 
26th, 18°; on the 27th, 20°; and on the 28th, 19°.—E. E., 
Windermere. 


GARDENERS’ MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT 
SOCIETIES. 


Ineap with much pleasure the article in this Journal re- 
specting the Maidstone Gardeners’ Mutual Improvement So- 
ciety, more particularly as at the time I, and several others, 
were endeavouring to organise a similar one at York. 

York stands high in respect to the patronage it bestows on 
horticulture. It has one flower show, or, as it is termed, a gala 
every year, and the liberal prizes offered are such, that they 
gather together specimens whichin quantity and quality can 
scarcely be surpassed, even at the metropolitan shows. It also 
boasts of an ‘‘ Ancient Society of Florists,” said to be the oldest 
of the kind in England. This society, which had its origin 
upwards of a century ago, has undergone many vicissitudes of 
depression and prosperity, at times counting its members by 
units, but at present with an enterprieing secretary and tren- 
surer, and an intelligent committee, at the head of affairs, it 
can almost count as many members as it is years old; but 
though praiseworthy, it can scarcely be called a gardeners’ 
society. It has been felt a great want by many of the gar- 
deners in and around York, that there is no properly organised 
society to meet and discuss matters connected with their pro- 
fession. Several enterprising men took the matter in hand; 
amongst the more active may be mentioned Mr. McInnes, gar- 
dener to the Hon. H. Lascelles, Middlethorpe Manor, and Mr. 
Cowl, Burton Nursery, York. Several meetings were held, and 
it was at first proposed that a deputation should wait on the 
“Ancient Florists,” to see if an arrangement could be arrived 
at, to connect such rules with those of that Society as would 
meet the want felt. But the majority thought it would be too 
much like “going a begging.” So it was resolved, that they 
should form themselves into an independent society for the 
present ; and should an amalgamation be felt desirable at any 
future time, both societies could treat then on an equal basis. 
Circulars were issued to several gardeners in the neighbour- 
hood, and a meeting was held. Upwards of twenty members 
signed their namer, when a president, secretary, and treasurer, 
were elected, also a committee was formed to draw up rules for 
the guidance of the society. These were formed on the basis 
of the Maidstone rules. One important resolution passed is, 
that the meetings shall not ke held at 2 public house. A great 


many more persons have signified their willingness to join, 
likewise several honorary members, and at present the Society 
promises to be popular. From the hearty manner in which all 
present wished it success, there is ne doubt that it will prosper, 
if the members will but act up to their promises. 

My motive in drawing attention to the subject is to induce 
other provincial towns to do likewise. There is no reason why 
every town and village in the kingdom that holds a flower 
show, should not form a society of this kind, and not for each 
to hold an isolated position, but all to join into one general so- 
ciety. Then subjects connected with gardening and gardeners 
could be discussed, and the conclusions arrived at put into 
operation with better results than at present. If a few enter- 
prising gardeners in various districts would take the matter 
np, I believe in the majority of cases the movement would 
be popular, consequently successful. Although the Maidstone 
Society has not been the first to start a movement of this kind, 
still the state of prosperity which it has attained should be 
imitated by every town in the kingdom. Ifgenerally organised, 
what a grand holiday gardeners might have once a-year, ifa 
day and place should be appointed for an excursion to the 
Crystal Palace—like the Foresters or Oddfellows—or to Kew 
or Hampton Court, &c. ‘Young men from the country” 
would have an opportunity of seeing the London parks, and 
other places of interest to them in the metropolis. Gardeners 
are £0 migratory, that it is not uncommon for them to have 
acquaintances all over the kingdom. What congratulations 
and shaking of hands there would be! How many old friends 
would meet who had not met for years! This is but one view 
of the benefits; but before pleasure business, and while I was 
led away by the pleasing dream, I forgot that a great deal of 
business must be done before that pleasure ig arrived at.—A 


YorEEY. 


NEW BOOK. 


The Forester, or a Practical Treatise on the Planting, Rearing, 
and General Management of Forest Trees. By J. Brown, 
LL.D., Wood-surveyor and Nurseryman, Stirling. Fourth 
Edition. W. Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh and London. 


Aurnoucu a fourth edition it is a ‘‘new book,” for we can 
testify to the truth of this passage in the preface, ‘ The author 
has carefully rewritten the volume, and added nearly one hun- 
dred new sections upon important subjects, which were neces- 
sary to bring it up to the advanced state of the times.” Nor is 
this all that claims approval, for Dr. Brown shows that he is a 
trustworthy guide, by acknowledging when later experience has 
convinced him that former opinions which he published were 
erroneous—such wrong opinions are not many, and one instance 
will suflice. 

“ At one time I considered the timber of the Q. sessiliflora inferior 
to that of Q. peduncnlata; but from more extended observations on 
the subject of oak timber within the last ten years, I am now led to 
state that the timber of the one sort is for all purposes as good as that 
of the other. In some experiments which I made recently in regard 
to the comparative strength of the timber of the two kinds, I found 
that a beam of the segsiliflora bore fully a greater strain under agiven 
weight than one of equal dimensions of the pedunculata. Indeed, for 
all purposes to which oak timber is applied, that of the sessiliflora is 
used as plentifully as that of the pedunculata, and in old buildings its 
durability has been found to be equal to the timber of the other kind.” 


The increased size of the present volume also sustains its claim 
to consideration as a ‘“‘new book.” It occupies altogether 
850 large 8vo. pages, whereas the third edition contained but 
700, the second edition about 500, and the first only 215 of a 
12mo. size. That first edition was published in 1848, and ap- ~ 
peared very opportunely. Great complaints had been published 
of the mismanagement of the Royal Forests, and attention was 
aroused to the fact that, although forest trees need attention 
to the soil they prefer, the arrangement of their roots when 
planted, draining, thinning and pruning during their early 
growth, yet that all these needs were neglected, and the care of 
woods and forests was committed to men who were more capable 
of cutting down a tree than cultivating it. 

Mr. Brown, when he first published ‘‘ The Forester,” held 
that situation on the estate of Mr. Dundas, at Arniston, near 
Dalkeith, andit evinced sucha sound knowledge on the subject, 
that when the commotion about the Royal Forests war made 
effectual, he was appointed to the surveyorship of Dean Forest. 
This was in 1854, a testimonial was presented to him on the 
occasion, and a Foresters’ Association instituted, of which he 
was chosen chairman. In 1861 he was wood-manager to the 


218 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 


{ March 28, 1871 


Farl of Seafield, and he became and continues one of our best 
authorities on woodcraft. 

There had been small works, and of equally small authority, 
written on forest management by Monteatb, Pontey, Main, 
and others, but Mr. Brown’s volume, even when it first ap- 
peared in its diminutive form, and still more decidedly now, is 
the best and fullest authority on the management of trees, 
whether in forest, plantation, or hedge-row. We shall make no 
quotation, but we can assure our readers that they will find in 
the volume every information they may need relative to forest 
trees, from the sowing of their seeds to the time of felling, 
selling, cutting into timber, and keeping woodland accounts ; 
information not only including our older epacies of deciduous 
trees, but also the newest-introduced Conifers. 


LIQUID MANURES. 


Att plants grown in small pots, and which are expected to fruit or 
bloom in little space, will be benefited by the application of liquid 
manure, if the kind is varied, and the water clear and not given too 
strong. I have tried most of the concentrated manures which have 
been advertised, and they are all useful, but I would not use them quite 
so strong as the dealers recommend. 

As a top-dressing for plants in pots, superphosphate of lime is good; 
as much as can be held between the thumb and two fingers may be 
put on # 6-inch pot, and if the colour is disliked light soil may be 
dusted over it. ‘The virtues will be washed in by repeated waterings. 
If guano were used, less than half the above quantity would be enough 
to be safe. Itis best used asa liquid manure, and if the vessel is 
large three ounces to two gallons will be sufiicient; if it be allowed to 
stand half a day previous to use, and then the sediment be left, about 
half the quantity will do for the future mixings. An overdose will do 
mischief. At such strength the watering is very effective for plants in 
small pots, either for fruiting or blooming. In the latter case the 
manure-waterings should rarely be given until the flower trusses 
appear. 2 

Although I have not a word to say against such concentrated ma- 
nures, I have quite as great faith in home-made manures. I know 
there are great virtues in house sewage, and I would use it largely if, 
when too strong, I could always dilute it; but I have been forced to 
use it too strong, and the alternative for the plant was either to be 
injured by excessive dryness or by the application of the too rich 
sewage undiluted. Ona small scale it is easy to take away the smell 
with gypsum, sulphuric acid, or powdered alum. It is often anything 
but pleasant to use sewage in its natural state. I do not like men to 
have anything to do with it until they have broken their fast in the 
morning. I would place most reliance on made liquid manures, which 
it is open to every one to use. Horse dung [ do not use very much, 
as when fresh the liquid is very heating. Cow dung, if slightly dried, 
affords a rich manure water of a cooling character; it does admirably 
as acorrective to guano. Sheep dung and deer dung aro also very 
good when well soaked. There is nothing better than scot when the 
water is well cleared and not given too strong, fcr if strong it will tend 
to parch and burn the roots. Strawberry plants in pots are easily 
injured by too strong a dose. ; 

‘A bushel of horse, cow, sheep, or deer droppings, and half as much 
of pig droppings when the animal is well fed, will be suflicient for fifty 
gallons of liquid, and when that is drawn off to the bottom about half 
the quantity will do for the next brewing. hese should be steeped a 
few days previous to use; a little quicklime added will help to clear 
them. 

One bushel of good dry soot will make a strong liquid for sevezty 
gallons. ‘There is a simple method of making it which should be taken 
advantage of. The drier and better the soot the greater the necessity 
for mixiug it up first, with a little water, into a stiff paste, just as if 
you were making fine lime plaster. Unless this be done no after-care 
will enable you to make the soot and the water mingle freely. This 
done there is no difficulty, the soot and the water commingle. When 
the vessel is filled a broom is used to stir all nicely together; then a 
small spadeful of powdered quicklime is sprinkled over the surface, 
and the broom is used again. In twenty-four hours, with all this 
care, there will lo a sooty scum on the surface, which it is desirable to 
remove just us you would take the cream of milk. Underneath, with 
the exception of the sediment at the bottom, the water will be as clear 
and bright as dark-coloured sherry. At the above strength of a bushel 
to seventy gallons, soot water would be too strong for anything in pots. 
About one-quarter to three-quarters of soft water would be enough 
when of such strength. Tor syriuging purposes—and in this way it is 
a great deterrent to all insects—it must be used much weaker, say one 
gallon of the soot water added to five gallons of clear soft water. 

‘I must now make a few remarks on the receptacles for manure 
water of varicus kinds. Many simple makeshifts may be resorted to. 
Phe best plan is to have brick and cement tanks where they can be 
ensily tilled with fresh soft water, and enough of them to have some 
with the liquid fermenting whilst others are in use. At one time I 
had some barrels aboveground near a rain-water tank, but they soon 
wore out. I found I could have some other large barrels equally worn 
out and unserviceable as to holding any liquid. Instead of keeping 
them aboveground, where they were useless, I had a large trench dug 


out, so that the tops of the barrels stood merely a few inches above the 
ground level; I then had all the holes and cracks stuffed with old rags 
and clay, and packed the outside firmly with clay for an inch or s0, 
and then with tar and clay in the spaces between. The old useless 
barrels have never leaked, and the layer of clay has kept the tar from 
affecting the water, whilst the latter, mixed with the clay, prevented 
leakage. What was ouly fit for burning has thus done many yéars’ 
good service, and though the staves are in many cases rotten they keep 
the barrel firm, and answer the purpose as well as if the barrels had 
been good and useful for their allotted purpose. With a little trouble 
cottagers might easily make old useless barrels watertight for liquid 
manures. 

In the case of all droppings of animals used for liquid manure, it is 
well, when it can be done, to soak the droppings at first in very hot 
water. This will kill the eggs and larve of insects.—R. F. 


ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S MEETING. 


Tue second February meeting of the Entomological Society was 
held at Burlington House, A. R. Wallace, Esq., the President, being 
in the chair. Mr. Frederick Bond exhibited a hybrid silk Moth reared 
by Dr. Wallace, the parents being Bombyx Pernyi and B. Yama-Mai. 
The antenne were very broad; the wings dark chocolate-coloured, but 
like Yama-Mai in form ; the eye-like spots of the wings round and like 
those of the latter species, but the cocoon was of the ordinary colour 
like that of B. Pernyi, and not of a pale green like that of B. Yama- 
Mai. He also exhibited a specimen of the common silk Moth, B. Mori, 
also reared by Dr. Wallace, the head of which was enclosed within 
the head of the larva, which the insect had not had the power to throw 
off. Mr. McLachlan mentioned that the first recorded instance of 
such a monstrosity had been described by O. I’. Miller in “‘ Der Na- 
turforscher,”’ in which the monster was a Hypogymna dispar. 

Mr. F. Smith exhibited a common Egyptian Wasp, Rhynchirm 
brunneum, communicated to him by Dr. Birch, of the British Museum, 
which he had found within the folds of the covering of a mummy, 
showing that the species had inhabited Egypt for many ages without 
haviag undergone uny change. He alao stated that this insect built 
its nest in the excavations formed by the inscriptions on the ancient 
monuments of that country, which were by that means filled up and 
rendered invisible. Mr. F. Smith also communicated a passage from 
Pepys's Diary dated in May, 1665, in which the writer narrated that 
he had seen in the garden of John Evelyn, near Hatton Garden, a 
glass hive, in which the bees could be seen at work, proving that obser- 
yatory hives were not a modern invention. 

Mr. Miller read a paper on the dispersion of non-migratory insects 
by atmospheric agencies, in which he had collected together 2 number 
ot records of showers of insects after violent storms, and at sea at long 
distznces from land; and he was of opinion that these agencies played 
a considerable part in the geographical distribution of insect life, 
though no doubt in many cases the species thus involuntarily dispersed 
died out from inability to cope with the pre-existent denizens of the 
localities to which they were driven. 

Mr. H. Jenner Fust communicated a supplement to his treatise on 
the geographical distribution of British Lepidoptera, on the plan of 
Mr. Watson’s work on the distribution of British plants. 

The fifth part of the Transactions of the Society for 1870 was an- 
nounced as ready for distribution among the members. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 
KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Tue present is the best time for putting in the general crops; 
the season, the weather, and the state of the ground are in every 
way favourable. Carrots, Leeks, Onions, Parsnips, Potatoes, 
Parsley, early Turnips, and almost all garden seeds may now 
be sown whenever the ground is sufliciently dry. Manure and 
dress Asparagus beds. Plant-out in 2 deep rich piece of ground 
Cauliflowers that have been wintered under protection. When 
the ground will permit, it will be found a very good practice in 
transplanting these at this uncertain season to throw-out 
shallow trenches, placing the removed soil on the north side, 
and putting the plants in the trenches, which will be thus 
sheltered from the north winds. Forward Celery plants for a 
very early supply, by pricking-out on a slight hotbed, and sow 
on the same for succession crops. Stir the soil among growing 
crops—as Letiuce and Spinach, and prevent weeds from making 
their appearance. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Where it is intended to head-down old trees for grafting, this 
should be done at onco, and young stock should be grafted ag 
speedily as circumstances will permit. Planting, pruning, and 
nailing should now be forwarded as much as possible. Theso 
operations cannot be finished too soon. The sap having now 
commenced its ascending course, broken flower buds and in- 
jured shoots will be the certain consequerice of neglect and 
delay. Continue to protect the bloom of Peach, Nectarine, 
and Apricot trees. 


March 23, 1871. ] 


FLOWER GARDEN. 

Sweep and thoroughly clean lawns, and give them a double 
rolling with a heavy roller to render the turf smooth and solid. 
This is sometimes put off until dry weather sets in, after which 
the roller makes comparatively little impression ; whereas, if 
done at once while the turf is in a wet spongy state, it will be 
greatly consolidated and improved for the season. If any 
alterations or planting still remain unfinished, all avuilable 
hands should be concentrated on this work so as to complete it 
as soon as possible. Planting done after this time will requixe 
much attention in watering, and this at the very busiest season 
of the year, especially if large plants are removed, and it is too 
common a practice to put off such work to the last. Look over 
the beda planted with bulbs, and where necessary stir the 
surface soil go as to keep it open and friable, and to give a 
clean, neat, fresh appearance. If the soil of any beds or clumys 
for masses requires renewing, or enriching by the addition of 
animal or vegetable manure, it should be immediately applied 
in order that they may be ready to receive plants or seeds. 
Where the same or nearly the same plants are grown for a 
number of years successively on any of the beds, it is advisable 
once in four or five years to remove a large portion of the old 
soil, and to fill up again with fresh material ; this practice, 
bowever, for some plants, Scarlet Pelargoninms for instance, 
would be rather injurious, for the latter generally grow more 
luxuriantly than is desirable, even in the poorest soil. Many 
bedding plants, however, particularly annuals, take more from 
the soil than can be supplied to it in a moderate top-dressing, 
and where we find a certain kind of plant exactly suited to e 
particular situation, we do not change it every year, but prefer 
changing the soil. Perhaps no kind of flower garden is more 
generally interesting than one of mixed herbaceous plants, if 
they are tastefully arranged as regards height and habit of 
growth, colour, and season of flowering, and it is owing to a 
want of attention to these matters of detail that flower gar- 
dening of this description is so little in repute. The beds are 
too generally planted with little regard to system at first, and 
yaps which occur afterwards are supplied with little better 
taste. As tho arrangement of the plants cannot be rectified 
during the season of growth, the best method of proceeding is 
to name them carefully as they come into flowor, and to make 
memoranda of their height, colour, season, and other pecu- 
liarities. With the assistance of this information any cul- 
tivator may make a collection of herbaceous plants both beavti- 
ful and interesting. Carnations and Picotees have suffered 
much during the past winter, those which escaped should be 
potted forthwith. I know of nothing better to grow them in 
than two parts virgin loam, one part decomposed horse manure, 
and one part sharp river sand. In this simple compost, with 
occasional doses of weak liquid manure during the growing 
season, I have seen them flourish and produce en excellent 
bloom, Tulip seed may now be sown, covering slightly. Nets 
may be kept over the main beds to preserve the foliage of the 
advancing plants from being cut by severe winds, or battered 
by hailstones. The surface of Pink beds may be moved and 
the plants top-dressed with rich compost. The same treatment 
will apply to Pansies. Polyanthus seed should be sown in 
pans or boxes, sheltering the plants as they rise, from the direct 
rays of thesun. Hanunculuses,as a matter of course, are all in 
the ground and the seed sown. Shelter both the beds and seeds 
from excessive wet. 

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. f 

Now is the time to commence ascertaining whether there is 
a sufficient quantity of plants for the decoration of the con- 
servatory during the summer and autumy. If this is attended 
to at once, very much may yet be done towards making good 
any deficiencies that may happen to be discovered, for it is not 
yet too late to provide multitudes of showy plants for blooming 
errly in autumn. Young plants of Allamandas, Clerodendrons, 
Torenias, &c., and many other things, if encouraged with a 
brisk bottom heat and other favourable circumstances, will 
form good-sized specimens in a few months; and large masses 
of Statices, than which few plants are more useful, will under 
kind treatment be obtained in a very short time. Cassia 
corymbosa is a useful plant and should not be overlooked 
when other plants are scarce, as it grows very rapidly and pro- 
duces a long succession of bright yellow flowers, Those, also, 
who possess Balsamina Jerdoniw should encourage it by every 
possible means to make wood and propagate as quickly and 
freely a3 possible, for it is just the plant that is wanted for 
autumn decoration. Then there are numbers of usefal plants 
that may be raised from seeds, as Thunbergias, Ipomeas, Cocks- 


JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTURE AND OOTTAGEH GARDENER. 


219 


combs, Balsams, Lobeliag, &c.; and cuttings of Fuchsias mado 
of young wood will root in warm sand in little more than a 
Week, and may be grown into fair-sized specimens by July. 
Give free ventilation wken cold winds ean be avoided, and be 
cautious in the use of fire heat, dispensing with it on all 
possible occasions ; indeed, it will henceforth scarcely be re- 
quired, except to ward off too sudden a depression through 
frosty nights. Where gay Azaleas, Rhodcdendrons, and Roses 
are kept by themgelves, a canvas screen should be immediately 
put in requisition in order to retain those charming flowers. 
When such is tho case a very small amount of atmospheric 
moisture will suffice, 
STOVE. 

Increase atmospheric moisture considerably, not, however, in 
sudden clouds of steam, but steadily and permanently. Some 
slight shading with the Orchids may be necessary from 11 a.m. 
to 2 P.M. on very sunny days. When, however, the sun ouly 
breaks out at intervals, profer giving more air and increasing 
in a very high degree the moisture of the air, 

PITS AND FRAMES. 

Verbenas, Calceolariae, shrubby Anagallises, Autirrhinums, 
Scarlet Pelurgoniums, Fachsias, Petuniag, and all cuttings of 
half-hardy plants will strike in little more than a week in a 
sweet bottom heat of 75°.X—W. Kranz, 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 

On the morning cf Thursday last we had rathor unexpectedly 
a heavy fall of snow; and in one respect we were glad to see if, 
as along with the frost of the succeeding morning, it put a 
stop to ground work for a couple of days, and enabled us to 
proceed with cleaning shede, washing pots, remedying defective 
glass in sasheg, potting in stokehole sheds where all was wari, 
and changing bedding plants into cooler quarters, where they 
could be almost left to themselves until planting-out time. 
We also went on propagating by cuttings what we wished to . 
increase, and pricking out lois of small seodlings in shallow 
wooden boxes, which we find the easiest to manage and the 
easiest and most economical to obtain. All such work will, as 
a general rule, be best done according to the comfort of tho 
workmen, A man, however well disposed, cannot do such deli- 
cate work as pricking off small seedlings with the points of his 
fingers like 80 many points of ice. Wo bave not yet hed a 
properly heated workshed fur euch purposes, and therefore 
take advantage of sheds where there is a furnace ; but so well 
is this matter now understood, that many of the proprietors of 
even small nurseries are quite as particular in having their 
working sheds heated by hot water in winter as in applying it 
to their glass houses. It is certain there is no excuse for dila- 
toriness, idleness, or beating hands and arms for warmth when 
such comfort is provided. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

The mild day of the 18th brought all our usual work in full 
force upon us. Where the main crops of Onions haye not been 
sown no time should now be lost, and a principal sowing of 
Carrots should also be made. Parsnips do well sown even in 
February. Beet, Salsafy, and Seorzonera may also be sown 
where a few run heads are not feared. For a uniform level 
crop it is as well to defer sowing to the end of the month or 
the beginning of April. ‘The ground is yet £0 cold ihat it is 
hardly warm enough to encourage germination except in the 
hardiest seeds, as Peas and Beans, of which successions should 
be putin. Early crops of these suffered a little from the frost 
of the morning of the 17th, bus not, we trust, enough to hurt 
them. 

We pricked off a lot of small plants of Celery into small 
wooden boxes, and placed them in a shady place in a vinery at 
work. We generally sow Celery twice or thrice, but we must 
confess that we do this more as # custom than from any ab- 
solute necessity. The general idea hes been that small plants 
which are fit to be pricked off into » little heat in the 
middle of March, are sure to throw up their flower-stalks in 
July, August, and later, whilst plants from seed subsequently 
sown, and fit to be pricked off in April end May, gre compara- 
tively safe from bolting. The result of our experience and 
observation is, that plants properly looked after, the roots kept 
from being dried up, &c., and that are pricked off now, are jost 
as safe from bolting as those pricked off two months later. Wo 
have often had in March good beds of Celery without a bolted 
head, although the tiny seedlings had been pricked off in the 
March of the previous year. When we had yery early Celery, 


220 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ March 23, 1871, 


and consequently sowed at the end of December or the begin- 
ning of January, we could have counted on our fingers all the 
yun heads in July, August, and September. The treatment 
given, so as to prevent stagnation of growth, will have more 
effect in preventing bolting than the mere time of the suc- 
cessive sowings. Very early Celery requires much attention 
befure planting out. That which is pricked out towards the 
end of March will want but little care comparatively, except to 
be gradually hardened off. We generally give the most for- 
ward the benefit of 2 glass gash for atime, before finally trans- 
planting. 
FRUIT DEPARTMENT. 

As the snow covered the roofs of our orchard houses, and as 
with all our care we discovered some traces of the Aphis per- 
sice, in comparison with which the green fly is a trifle, we 
smoked the houses well by smothered burnings of bruised 
Laurel leaves. They must have strong constitutions that 
would withstand such treatment. The scent of the smoking 
was strong and disagreeable at a good distance from the houses, 
as, notwithstanding the snow covering, some of the smoke and 
fumes escaped from the front. Care must be taken by damp 
coverings of moss, &c., that the lJeaves bruised and broken 
along with small twigs, do not emit flare or flame, as that might 
be dangerous. We have not found an insect alive after the 
infliction, but of course the smoking would have little or no 
effect on the unhatched eggs. At this early season, however, 
the young are often produced alive, or viviparous, like little 
ropes of Onions, and not from eggs deposited, and therefore 
killing the old ones is of extra importance. 

We stated lately that the floor or surface soil cf these houses 
had all been scraped cff to the depth of ssy half an inch. 
This also is so far a security against insects. As a whole the 
ground beneath was hard and rather dry. Inthe snowy and 
frosty days alluded to, the surface soil of the pots in one house 
was picked off, and a fresh rim of turf put round, and fresh 
rich compost added. The turf rims, some of them resting on 
the ground, were formed of pieces of rather thin turf doubled 
in upon themeelves, so that the grass should be inside and the 
earth of the turf outside. This prevents the grass showing 
itself, whilst it gives toughness to the rim thus formed, so as 
to last for the season. We like these very well. Where turf 
cannot be had conveniently, zinc rims are very useful, look 
neat, and take up but little room; say strips of zinc from 2} to 
34 inches deep, and cut with zine scissors to the requisite 
length, so that the ends merely cross each other where they 
meet inside the rim of the pot. One advantage of such zine 
rims is, that many of our soft-skinned molluscs decline to 
climb over the zine. Having thus attended to the pots, we 
broke the surface of the soil with the points of a fork, just a 
little less than half an inch, so that water should be absorbed 
more equally, and then watered where dry with weak sewage. 
We next covered all over with about an inch of rotten dung, in 
which a little lime was mixed, and scattered over that fresh 
dryish lozm, so as to give all a clean, fresh appearance. The 
reason for adopting these processes in succession was first to 
secure the roots from being too dry, not watering where it was 
moist enough, or where pots needing water had stood through 
the winter; and secondly, to secure a comparatively fresh, dry 
surface in the house when the trees are in bloom, as those 
against the wall are now opening their flowers. The dry sur- 
face will be all in favour of the bloom, snd also be a safeguard 
if we should have severe frost in the mornings. 

Strawberries in the fine sunny days are now of a good colour 
and fair for flavour. We have plenty of places in which we 
can bring the plants on to the flowering period, but we are 
scarce of room where there is the proper slope and light to set 
the flowers well, and therefore when the plants have set 2 
sufficient number of fruit we often move them to swell and 
ripen, but even then the flavour will be in exact proportion to 
the light and requisite ventilation given. On these accounts 
our best makeshifts in houses where the Strawberry may be 
considered az a stolen or extra crop, will not equal the results 
to be obtained in a Strawberry house set apart for the purpose, 
and built with an inclination to all the direct sunlight possible 

n March and April. For general management see previous 
weeks’ noticer. 
ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT, 

The snow has greatly benefited the new-laid turf. When we 
can manage to finish such work in March, we do not expect to 
have the turf watered afterwards. But for the damp in the 
ground we would have soaked some turf laid before the snow, 
as it had become dry from exposure after being taken up. 


This dipping is worth many waterings; and though such a 
practice is anything but to be commended, we have, by im- 
mersing the turf in a tub of water, laid it successfully at mid- 
summer. 

Turf Pots.—A lot of turf taken up from 2} to 3 inches thick 
was Cut into squares of about 3 inches each way, a hole was 
scooped out in the centre, and Geranium plants taken from 
boxes put cne in each piece of turf along with light rich soil, 
the turves placed close together on leaves, then rotten leaf mould 
strewn between them, watered, and protected with old sashes, 
mats, &¢., at first. These plants generally turn out well and 
never suffer from the removal, the roots hanging all round the 
turf. Our turf this season is rather light, sandy, and sweet— 
all the better. 

Propagating by Leaves.—In propagating, for details see pre- 
vious numbers. We repeat what some anxious ones may have 
forgotten, that the leaves of many plants will soon strike and 
form plants. Most leaves of plants will form roots, but there 
the matter rests, they will not forma stem. Many fleshy suc- 
culent leaves will form both roots and stems. For instance, 
this is not only the case with Gloxinias, fine-leaved Begonias, 
&c., but every piece of the leaves when cut up into shreds, 
especially if they have a piece of vein or midrib at their base, 
will soon form independent plants. We have thus soon had a 
dozen little plants from 2 single Begonia leaf. The fine-leaved 
Colenses are often scarce in spring, though wanted by scores 
or hundreds in summer. The cuttings, of course, strike 
freely in heat, but the difficulty often is to obtain enough 
cuttings where the keeping means of a dry heat are wanting in 
winter. In such a case every leaf becomes available. We 
have not yet tried slitting the leaves into so many shreds, and 
inserting them as cuttings; but whole leaves inserted by part 
of the footstalk and part of the base cf the leaf round the 
sides of the pot in sandy soil, soon form a protuberance, 
from which roots are produced ; ere long a little stem rises, so 
that ultimately one would not know the plants raised from the 
leaves from those raised from cuttings. There is this difference, 
that the cutting, however smal], makes # plant much sooner 
than a leaf, When the first-struck are potted cff it will be no 
long time, if growing in a moist heat, before they will bear 
topping for cuttings and leaf-propagation. Now is the time to 
secure in such cases freedom from insecte.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 

Bell & Thorpe, Paddock Nurseries, Stratford-on-Avon.—Select Seed 
Catalogue. hy 

George Yates, 31, Little Underbank, Stockport.—Descriptive Cata- 
logue of Vegetable and Flower Seeds. 

Hugh Findlay, West Netherton and West Shaw Streets, Kilmar- 
nock. — Catalogue of Forest- and Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, Fruit 
Trees, &c.— Catalogue of Florists’ Flowers and Bedding Plants. 

J. Coombs, The Ferns, Enfield, Middlesex.— Catalogue of Cuttings 
of Geraniums, £e. 

James Dickson & Sons, 102, Eastgate Street, and Newton Nurseries, 
Chester.— Catalogue of Farm Seeds. 

Downie, Laird, & Laing, 17, South Frederick Street, Edinburgh, 
and Stanstead Park, Forest Hill, London, S.E.—Descriptive Cata- 


‘logue of Florists’ Flowers. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

*,* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the “Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, &c., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. Age ; 

We also request that correspondenis will not mix up on the same 
sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry 
and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them answered 
promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate 
communications. Also neyer to send more than two or 
three questions at once. ; : 

N.B.—Many questions mustremain unanswered until next week. 

Curap GREENHOUSE (A Reader).—So say we, Why do not advertisers 

state the price of the different sized houses? In“ Greenhouses for the 
Many ” and in our pages you will find out for what houses may be put up, 
with a Jittle ingenuity and work on the part of the owner. A portable 
house is what would suit you. We can hardly tell you how best to lay 
out £20 without knowing exactly what you want. Anyone who advertises 
portable houses in our columns would give you the necessary informa- 
tion, especially if you sent a prepaid envelope forreply. It is a mistake 
to advertise and not give prices. 


March 23, 1871. ] 


WASHING Rosrk TREES (An Old Reader).—We do not recommend the 
practice of washing Rose trees in the spring, when the young buds are 
just starting, with any of the insecticide compounds, as Gishurst, Clarke’s, 
Fowler’s, Abyssinian mixture, et id genus omne, as there is more proba- 
bility of injury being done to the buds than good by the destruction of 
the eggs of insects, &c.; but we do strongly recommend constant syring- 
ing during the growing season with pure rain water, to which has been 
added a small quantity of solt soap and clear soot water. A strong 
mixed solution of the latter can be kept in an earthenware pancheon, and 
added, when it is settled, to each canful of water, whichis used in syring- 
ing. This treatment will both invigorate the plants and keep them free 
from aphis and mildew. Whenever boneydew is seen on the leaves look 
carefully on the upper shoots for aphis, as honeydew is almost invariably 
the deposit of aphis, and it is altogether a mistaken notion that the aphis 
comes to feed on the honeydew, as the aphides are seldom, if ever, found 
on leaves much covered with honeydew, but the white cast-off coats or 
skins of the aphides will be found plentifully enough. The Rose weevil 
(worm i’ the bud) requires hand-picking; the leaves are too much curled 
up by the insects for the syringe toremove them, though it will help to 
check their spread when soft soap is freely used with the water. 


Rose Currines (B. B.).—The Rose cuttings put in last autumn under 
a north wall we would take up in April, place in small pots, and setina 
cold frame, keeping close and shaded for a time, sprinkling them over- 
head every morning. When established and growing freely, plant them 
out about 18 inches apart in an open situation, in good rich soil well 
worked. The weakest we should put out 6 inches from plant to plant in 
rows about a foot apart,and in autumn you could move them to their 
final quarters. Allow them to grow at will this season. If inconvenient 
to pot the plants, leave them where they are until May, and then take 
them tap carefully and plant them where you require, watering in dry 
weather. 


Rosks In Inpra (An Old Subscriber).—The pruning and other treat- 
ment must vary with the latitude The Himalaya Mountains and Cape 
Comorin have totally different climates. An intelligent local native 
Mallee will manage the Rose—the Gul of India—better than we could 
advise. Speede’s ‘‘New Indian Gardener,” published by Thacker & Co., 
Calcutta, is the best book we know on Indian gardening, but it says 
nothing about Rose-culture. 


NARCISSUS AND JONQUIL NoT FLowERING (A Subscriber).—Probably 
they have increased by offsets to such an extent as to have become weak 
from the overcrowding, though we have not found such to be the case 
oftener than once in every two or three years. We advise you to take 
them up when the foliage turns yellow, and after well manuring the 
ground, to replant, removing the small bulbs, and planting only the 
largest size for flowering, but put in the smallest by themselves to gain 
strength. Replant the same day. It is not necessary to take up the 
bulbs every year; every second or third year. is quite sufficient. Pro- 
bably you have other plants amongst them in summer, and the effect is 
to shade the foliage before it is mature. We have known the foliage 
whilst quite green pulled off, in order to fill the ground with bedding 
plants, and yet such persons complain of the bulbs not doing any good. 


Native Guano (G.M.).—We havs no experience of the “‘ native guano,” 
but should not hesitate to use it, as your employer wishes it. We think 
Queen Pines 6 lbs. 6 ozs., 5 lbs. 6 ozs., and 5 lbs. extraordinary weights 
for plants ten months old. The Queen Pine a crown in November, 1869, 
and now in flower, we should consider satisfactory. 


ANNUALS FoR Cur Frowers (4. S. E.).—Ten-week Stocks, Asters, 
Helichrysums, Phlox Drummondi, and Scabious in great variety are all 
fine, and so are Larkspurs, especially the Branching, Sweet Alyssum, 
Asperula azurea setosa, Centranthus macrosiphon and its variety bicolor, 
Chrysanthemum Dunnetti flore-pleno, C. hybridum flore-pleno, Erysi- 
mum Peroffskianum, Leptosiphon androsaceus and its variety albus, 
Lupinus nanus, Nasturtium Tom Thumb scarlet, spotted, and yellow; 
and besides those you name, which are good, Heliotropes, Ageratum, 
Delphinium Barlowi and Bella Donna, Dianthus hybridus Marie Paré, 
D. hybridus multiflorus, Herbaceous Phlox, Salvia patens and S.splen- 
dens, Carnations, Picotees, Pinks, and Mignonette. Stokesia cyanea is 
not quite hardy, except in warm situations, and with protection in winter. 
It does well in the garden borders insummer. Michauxia campanuloides 
is a good border plant, but is apt to damp off in winter, to guard against 
which it should be planted in light soil well drained. 


Prounine Ivy (Amateur).—In pruning Ivy it is proper to remove with 
the shears every leaf and shoot, so as to cut it close, and secure aclose, 
even growth. All the leaves, whether with long or short stems, should 
he cut off. The leaves with short stalks are last year’s late growth, and 
those with long stalks are partly last season’s early growth, and partly 
the late growth of the previous year, but as a rule the long-stalked leaves 
are rendered so by their having to elongate to reach the light, in conse- 
quence of their being covered by the young growth. Ivy sheds its leaves 
about July. 


Cepar oF LEBANON TRANSPLANTING (4. EZ. F. C.).—Nowis 2 good time, 
indeed better than autumn, to move a Cedar of Lebanon, especially as 
lt has been sheltered in the kitchen garden, and is to be moved to an 
exposed situation. Take it up carefully, preserving as many of the roots 
as possible, and lifting with a ball of earth. Water if the weather prove 
dry, but do not make the soil a sour mass from frequent waterings. 
Good rich loam, especially that from decayed turf, is most suitable, or, 
failing that, the top 2 or 3inches of a pasture chopped up is excellent. 
Trench the spot two spits deep before planting, making a circle with a 
8-feet radius, or a circle 6 feetindiameter. It is well to keep that for a 
few years free of weeds. Stake securely. 


SowinG CucuMBERS, &C., FOR EXHIBITION IN AUGUST (Dynnewydd).— 
The Cucumbers should be sown at the beginning of April, the Melons 
between now and the Ist of April, the Broad Beans at the end of April, 
and the Peas in the first week of May. As these crops are dependant in 
a great measure on the weather as to the time of coming in, and the 
kinds vary in their periods of ripening or attaining a condition fit for 
table, due allowance must be made. There should be more than one 
sowing of the Beans and Peas. 


VINE DIsBUDDING (West Cumberland).—The Vines on the spur system 
being pruned to two eyes is quite right. Wait until you can distinguish 
the bunches at the points of the shoots, and then, if the lowest shoot 
show fine bunches, remove the uppermost shoot on each spur, and if 
there should be no fruit on the lowest shoot but on the upper, leave both, 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


221 


and the upper one, when it has fruited, can be cut clean out, and that 
not fruited pruned to two eyes. In this way you can keep the spurs short. 
When all the eyes are fairly started, and especially the lowest eyes, the 
rods snows be tied in the position they are to have during the season of 
growth. 


MELONS, PLANTING IN A Pit (Vicar).—One plant under each light would 
be a sufficient distance for the plants to be trained to a trellis. 


SEEDLING VARIEGATED PELARGONIUMS LosING CotourR (V. Z. P.).— 
We think it is owing, as you think, to the fierce rays of the sun, for 
during very bright hot weather under glass they lose colour. Could you 
not sfford a slight shade in hot weather, say irom 9 a.m. to 4 P.M.? 
Tiffany answers very well, and we think pits are better than houses for 
all plants of such size that they can be moved into them in summer. 
They are, as a rule, more moist, and the pots are not so much exposed 
to the sun as those in larger structures. 


SHRUBBERY BorDERs (4 Coitage Gardener).—For such a place we do 
not think you would gain anythiug by wiring your dwarf walls, as nothing 
would thrive against them. Nothing would suit better than banks of 
Rhododendrons if the soilanswered. As youspeak of Chinese Arbor- 
Vite, we think that six of such plants would be enough for each side, 
three in each triangular space, and the other side might be the same as 
you suggest. Beginning at the house, then, we would plant six shrubs 
as follows:—Three in each triangular space—thus, Chinese Arbor-Vitz, 
Cupressus Lambertiana, Thujopsis borealis, Cupressus Lawsoniana, 
Thujopsis gigantea, and Juniperus chinensis. The intervening spaces 
we would fill with green and variegated Hollies and Arbutus, fronting 
with the best varieties of Berberis mixed with Aucubas. The front wall 
of the houses to the north we would cover with Cotoneaster microphylla 
and the scarlet Pyracantha, both very hardy and beautiful, and the 
borders we would chiefly plant with Laurustinus, bordered with Cistus, 
Daphne Cneorum, and dwarf hardy Heaths, as Erica herbacea, carnea, &c. 


ABRONIA UMBELLATA (D. M.).—It is a half-hardy annual of trailing 
habit, attaining a height of about 6 inches; flowers pink or rosy lilac, 
from June to October. It is anything but new, haying been introduced 
in 1823 from California. 


ScorcH Fir, AUSTRIAN PINE, AND SPRUCE NEAR THE SEA (4 Young 
Beginner)—The specimens you sent us are certainly destroyed or 
scorched by the sea spray. Scotch Fir,though succeeding a short dis- 
tance inland and in the most exposed situations, does not thrive very 
near the sea. Austrian Pine, however, is one of the best evergreen trees 
for situations near the sea, but we have no experience of it within 2 
hundred yards of the sea and within reach of the sea spray; it does well 
in a glen on the east coast not 300 yards from the sea. Spruce is of no 
use so far as we have experience, and we have abundant testimony of its 
being unsuitable. At a few hundred yards from the sea we have Austrian 
Pine, and Corsican Pine, the latter probably the quickest growing of allthe - 
Pines, and superior to either Scotch Fir or Austrian Pine for rapid and 
straight growth). Maritime Pine and Chinese Juniper are good. Of 
deciduous trees, most of the Maples succeed, especially Sycamore. Ash 
does tolerably well, Poplar, white-leaved ; Pear (ornamental sorts), Turkey 
Oak, Elm, Thorns, Sea Buckthorn, Elder, common and scarlet-berried ; 
and Gueldres Rose. There are others that do well in more southerly parts, 
but the above are what we find succeeding north of the Humber. 


GrowinG VINEs (R. S. S.).—We approve of the principle of grafting 
Vines on hardy stocks, for which there need not be any very expensive 
border-preparation. The writer you allude tois not a grower of Vines 
for sale—i.e., not a nurseryman. You may grow Vines as well as plants 
in a greenhouse, and have good Grapes for home use. Three good 
sorts are:—Frankenthal, Trentham Black, and roster’s White Seedling. 
Being ignorant of Vine culture, the ‘‘ Vine Manual” would suit you. It 
may be had by post from our office if you enclose 2s. 73d. in stamps with 
your address. 


Som For CaLaADIUMS—CHRYSANTHEMUM Currines (J. B.).—The most 
suitable compost for Caladiums is light fibrous loam two parts, one part 
sandy peat, one part well-decomposed cow dung or hotbed manure, a sixth 
part of silver sand, and the same of charcoal in pieces from the size of a 
pea toa walnut; the whole well incorporated but not sifted. Good drain- 
age is necessary. Chrysanthemum cuttings may be struck in any house 
with a gentle heat, but with most certainty in a gentle hotbed, and at 
this time of year it is desirable. Remove them immediately they are 
rooted to a cool house or co!d frame. 


PERILLA AND PETUNIA SEED NoT GERMINATING (A Subscriber, Somer- 
set).—We can only conclude that the seed was bad, but we would try 
again. For some years past there has been a great per-centage of bad seed, 
especially of Perilla, but with last year’s fine weather we may calculate on 
finer samples with a higher per-centage of good. Do not cover the seed 
more than its thickness with very fine soil, water no more than sufficient 
to keep the soil moist, shading from very bright sun so as to lessen the 
necessity for watering, and keep the seedlings near the glass, the nearer 
the better so long as they do not touch it. 


FERMENTING MaTERIAL FoR Pir (Subscriber).—We presume you re- 
quire the pit filling to afford bottom heat to the plants grown on it. Stable 
dung properly prepared by being thrown into a heap, sprinkled with 
water or the drainings of the dunghill if at all ary, and turned over two or 
three times at intervels of a few days. Leaves are good, but they need 
not be Oak leaves ; we have found Beech excellent. 


ArunDo Donax (G. B.).—This graceful plant flowers in the conserva- 
tory usually in July, and from the strong growths of the current year. 


Boiner (F. M.).—We find all boilers have the defect you complain of— 
viz., ‘‘ Consuming coal wonderfully, and, if set in brickwork, often needing 
rebuilding.” However, there is a considerable difference. We are using 
a wrought-iron multitubular, and it answers admirably, but compared with 
yours, we do not think there is any great difference as to fuel-consump- 
tion. Ours is nota patent. Itis on the principle of the steam-boiler. 


Ficus ELASTICA PROPAGATION (Idem).—We find no difficulty in pro- 
pagating this plant by cuttings. We usually take off the points of the 
shoots at this season with two or three joints besides the growing point, 
cut below the lowest joint, and insert the cuttings singly in small pots 
without removing any of the leaves, save those on the part inserted in 
the soil. The cuttings are allowed to dry the wound before insertion, 
and then they are put in sandy peat and loam, and placed in a bottom 
heat of 75° to 80°, and covered with a bell or hand-glass. They do not 
need much water, only just keeping moist. It may also be increased 


292 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


by eyes of the ripe wood, put in the same as Vine eyes, and placed in 
brisk heat. They, also, should be allowed to dry before insertion. 

InaRcHiInG VINEs (Idem).—The best time to inarch Jast year’s can2s to 
old Vines, is as soon as the stock or old Vines have shoots a few inches 
long with leaves to attract the sap, and so prevent bleeding. The scions 
are also better of some growth. No union can take place until there is 
growth, as it is effected by the descending current or elaborated sap. 

INDIANRUBBER PLANT NoT Turivine (E. S.).—The plant is not thriving 
from its being recently repottel and kept inaroom. It would do better 
in a greenhouse, and better still in a house with a moist atmosphere, and 
a temperature of 55° to 60°; a vinery at work is what it needs. It would 
have been better had you not potted it untilit began to grow. Though 
first-rate for a room, it should be removed to a moderately warm house to 
make new growths, say from February to July, or August, and may then 
be employed for room-Gecoration the remainder of the year, giving no 
more water than enough to leep the leaves fresh. A compost of two 
parts fibrous light loam, one part leat soil, or well-rotted manure, with a 
free admixture of sharp sand will grow it well. 

Insects ON ForcED STRAWEERRY Prants (Rev. E. D. K.).—The smail 
white flies which infest the leaves of the Strawberry plants in your hot- 
house are a species of Aleyrodes, closely allied to the Aphides and Cocci 
(A. vaporariorum Westw.). As they undergo their transformations on the 
under sides of the leaves they are difficult to be reached by any fluid 
application, and we believe that only repeated smoking will kill them-in 
the winged state. Some years ago they were very troublesome in the 
houses of the Royal Horticultural Society at Chiswick, and were found 
most difficult to destroy.—I. O. W. 

Names oF Pranrs (Otter).—l, Pteris serrulata; 2, Pellea hastata; 
8, Cheilapthes hirta. (Ella, Bath).—Nephrodium molle, in a very luxu- 
risnt contition. (——).—Two specimens, ] and 2, leaves only; we require 
flowers also. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


SILVER-SPANGLED AND BLACK HAMBURGHS. 


Iwas glad to see a letter a week or two ago upon Silver- 
spangled Hamburghg, for I feel sure that the only reason why 
they are not more popular in the sonthern counties is that they 
are not sufficiently understood. Dr. More, in his letter of 
February 16:h, does not leave the matter very clear; and as 
all your readers may not have read Mr. Teebay’s exhaustive 
article in the ‘‘ Poultry Book,” to which he refers, and which 
explains the whole subject most thoroughly, I will, if you will 
allow me, add a word or two to what Dr. More has said, setting 
him right on one or two points. 

He says, ‘‘Mr. Tegetmeier (he should have said Mr. Teebay) 
is very decided as to the propriety of having pure Mooney 
blood on one or the other side if you wish brilliant plumage. 
Mr. Beldon also, I know, considers this a sine qua non in the 
selection of stock birds; in fact he has informed me he prefers 
the dark-necked cocks in all respects.” Now this is only half 
the trath, for it shouid be distinctly understood that, to produce 
the beautifully spangled pullets which we see in the post of 
honour at our exhibitions, it is absolutely necessary to have 
pure Mooney blood not only on one but on both sides. Both 
the parent birds, cock and hen, must be pure Mooneys. Not 
all Mooney cocks, however, are hen-feathered; some, perhaps 
the greater number, have fall-feathered tails. Nor is it the 
fact that all the best breeders use only hen-feathered cocks; 
but whether hen-feathered or long-tailed, they must be pure 
Mooneys. But pure Mooneys of either sex very rarely have 
pure white earlobes, or the cocks—i.e., the long-tailed cocks, 
clear tails; and hoth theso are points which the jadges con- 
sider imperative in ‘‘exhibition cocks.” So to obtain them we 
must look elsewhere, and this is the object of crossing with the 
Silver Pheasant. Our exhibition cocks. therefore, are bred 
either from 2 Mooney cock with a half-bred Silver Pheasant 
hen ([ say half-bred, for I fancy there are very few pure Silver 
Pheasants left, most of them having besn crossed with the 
Mooneys), or from this same sort of hen and a Silver Pheasant 
or half-bred—i.e., exhibition cock. Formerly, when light- 
coloured cocks were the fashion they were usually bred in the 
latter way; but since the judges have taken to give the prefer- 
ence to cocks with heavier spangling I believe the former mode 
is the more usual, it being difficult to obtain a sufficient depth 
of marking from a Pheasant cock. As to size, Dr. More is 
again only partly correct, as, though Silver Pheasant cocks as 
a rule are larger than Mooneys, yet on the other hand with 
respect to the hens the contrary holds good. 

It will be seen from the above that Silver-spangled Ham- 
burghs may be bred with success eyen by those who have not 
the convenience of two yards—viz., by keeping a Mooney cock 

and allowing him, say, half a dozen wives, part of them being 
pure Mooneys, and the others pure or half-bred Silver Phea- 
sants, At the same time, where it can be managed it is better 
to haye two yards, and keep the two strains distinct. 


[ March 23, 1871. 


It does seem anomalous that at poultry shows, where the 
judges are required by the rules to look especially for ‘ purity 
of blood” in making their awards, the prizes should be given 
to ‘‘half-bred mongrels.” Still, as long as the present fashion 
lasts I do not see how is can be helped; and there is no deny- 
ing that the pure white earlobe and clear tail greatly enhence 
the beauty of the bird. 

With regard to Black Hamburghs, I have noticed with sston- 
ishment, in your answers to some correspondents, your edvice, 
or rather encouragement, to them to breed them from a mix- 
ture of Spanish and Golden-spangled Hamburghs, or Black 
Hamburghs and Black Game. Such attempts might be interest- 
ing as experiments, but I cannot imagine anyone in his senses 
setting to work to breed Black Hamburghs up to their present 
standard in either of these ways. I should not envy him his 
task. They may be called a ‘‘ manufactured breed,” but I fancy 
they can boast of a longer pedigree than many of the present 
fashionables, Brahmas to wit. 

One of the most experienced Hamburgh breeders in the 
kingdom has told me that he remembers seeing Black Ham- 
burghs in Lancashire when he was a boy, which must be some- 
thing like forty years ego; therefore they are not birds of yes- 
terday. There is no doubt that many of them were crossed 
with the Spanish some years ago, but the same authority tells 
me that the object of doing so was to give them greater size. 
Their liability to white face is not of itself a proof of Spanish 
origin, because all varieties of Hamburghs, Pencilled and 
Spangled, are liable to this same defect, though perhaps not 
to so great an extent as the Black. JI have bred, I dare say, 
nearly a thousand chickens of this variety, and out of them all 
I never had but three with single combs. This does not look 
asif their origin had been very recent. I fancy your corre- 
spondent who is setting to work de novo will have to persevere 
for many seasons before he attains to such uniformity. 

As to hardiness, there is no question about that. They are 
much hardier than any other variety of Hamburgh. In fact, 
I believe that they are the most profitable breed anyone can 
keep; in point of utility at all events, though not perhaps as 
regards exhibition, for they do not command the same fabulous 
prices as Coching, Game, and Dorkings. Good birds, however, 
will always realise good prices; and now that they have sepa- 
rate classes allotted to them at all the best shows their popu- 
larity seems to be increasing very fast.—SunropsHire Rector. 


BLUE DUN GAME FOWLS. 


Ix reply to ‘‘A Youne Brecinyer,” I beg to observe that the 
“Dan Game fowls” are by no means extinct yet. I have four 
Dan Game hens in my own run—iwo Tassel Dark Blue Duns, 
and one Brown Red Blue Dan; also a Ginger Dan hen. One 
of the Tassel Dan hens is also from Brown Red blood. Ihave 
no Blue Dan cocks, they being more difficult to breed than the 
hens are. I have met with both Red and Blue Don Game 
fowls in Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, Warwickshire, and 
Suffolk; but they are not very common. The Red Dans in 
Warwickshire are splendid birds for high courage, and no Game 
fowl is gamer than a good white-legged, red-eyed, blood red 
Dan cock.—NEWMAREET. 


HANDLING FOWLS AT POULTRY SHOWS. 

Aut fowls at exhibitions should be carefully handled, and the 
right way to hold them, in my opinion, is to grasp the wing and 
thigh in one firm, but gentle and strong grasp, the thumb over 
the wing, and the fingers under the thigh, which is the most 
secure way cf holding any fowl, Game or not. Game fowls 
should be handled when judged, or you cannot tell whether 
they possess the requisite hardness of flesh. I quite agree with 
Mr. Hinton, of Warminster, that sticks should not be admitted 
into poultry exhibitions, though required at cattle and pig ex- 
hibitions.— Trevor. 


OUTRAGES ON PRIZE BIRDS. 


Unver this heading you have lately had several communications 
from correspondents, whose birds have lost sickle feathers in going to, 
at, or returning from various poultry shows, and I think in every 
instance the secretary and committee have been blamed for not look- 
ing better after the birds, and preventing such malpractices. Now, I 
think the blame is placed on the wrong shoulders, and the fault of 
the birds’ sickle feathers being broken rests more with the railway 
officials. When the birds are packed after a show, and delivered at 
the railway station, the baskets are opened to see that the birds are 


ee ee ee 


March 23, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


223 


alive ; they are then fastened down, or are supposed to be so fastened, 
and are forwarded to their destination; on arriving at, we will say, 
Warminster, the basket is again opened to see that the occupants are 
all right. This is the way in which I believe the mischief occurs, for 
I have had many baskets returned to me not fastened at all (and some 
of my birds have had broken sickle feathers), but I cannot believe they 
were sent from a poultry show with the hampers unfastened. As Mr. 
Hinton’s birds seem to have suffered the most, I should certainly think 
some local fancier has taken a liking to his Malay cock’s tail feathers. 
However, I can tell him that after our last Bristol show the hampers 
were certainly opened at the Bristol railway station, but I must leave 
it to him to find out if the basket was opened at Warminster before 
being delivered. What fancier will start a patent fastening for the 
baskets? One correspondent says, Padlock them, and send the key to 
the secretary, of course keeping another to urfasten the lock upon the 
birds’ return. This I hardly think would answer, but I will leave it in 
abler hands than mine to suggest a remedy.—GrorGE Tonnyy, Bristol. 


Tue letters in your last number will probably create an impression 
in the minds of your readers that there was a want of care, if nothing 
worse, on the part of the Committee of the late Show at Colchester, and 
on their behalf I trust you will give me, as Secretary, an opportunity 
to state the means we adopted to prevent any unfair treatment of the 
birds whilst under our care. Some of the members of the working 
committee were present during the whole time of the show, day and 
night, in addition we had seven trusty and experienced servants in the 
Exchange whilst the show was open. None of these men were in- 
terested in any breed of birds, as we purposely avoided having anyone 
who had @ connection with the fancy in any way. Also, when the 
public were present, we had policemen in plain clothes, one stationed 
near where the Pigeons were placed, as I could not see that part from 
the bottom of the building, and to all the instructions were not to 
allow any bird or animal to be touched or disturbed, nor any egg to 
be removed, except by an authorised person. I have every reason to 
believe these orders were carried out strictly. 

In packing and unpacking, a committee-man was present when every 
bird was removed, and marked it on his catalogue. The show closed 
at 10 p.a., but every pen was emptied, except the local ones, and the 
hampers dispatched to the railway before we left the building at four in 
the morning; the London ones being sent off by the two o'clock 
morning mail. As far as we could see, every bird, with the exception 
of some Dorking hens that fought and were placed in separate pens, 
left the show uninjured. Mr. Dean’s birds I packed myself, aud saw 
no blood on them, neither were my hands soiled with blood, as they 
must have been had his bird been injured as he describes when I 
packed it. 

We hoped, after all our exertions, that the show would have passed 
off well, and without any complaints; but if any exhibitor can inform 
us in what way we could have done more to protect the birds entrusted 
to our care we shall be obliged, as we hope to have another show next 
year, and will endeavour at any cost to carry out suggestions which 
may contribute to the safety and well-being of birds sent us.—HENRY 
Laver, Honorary Secretary. 


THE DYED BANTAM COCK AT THE 
NORTHAMPTON SHOW. 


As your report of the Northampton Show in last week’s Jour- 
nal stated that the dyed Duckwing Game Bantam cock was ex- 
hibited by us, we trust you willallow us to give a most unquali- 
fied contradiction to the charge. We fearlessly assert that the 
Bantams we sent to Northampton never had a feather touched, 
either as regards dyeing or trimming, prior to their leaving us. 
They left us on Tuesday, March 7th, at 9.15 a..t., and did not 
artive home again until Tuesday, March 14th, at noon, and of 
course it is impossible for us to say what may have been done to 
them during the week they were away. That there nas been 
some gross mismanagement or carelessness in penning the birds 
(whether wilful or not is not for us to say) is self-evident. Mr. 
Newbitt, who exhibited Pigeons, sent a post-card to the Secretary, 
and asked him to say what we had in Class 19. To this the 
Secretary wrote as follows:—“185. None came.” This was 
written on the afternoon of the first show-day, when “one of 
the committee found” our “pen empty.” All our inquiries 
have failed to draw anything further from the Secretary than 
that our Bantams were placed in pen 187. We cannot learn 
whose birds were shown in pen 185. The birds shown in pen 
187 were sent to Mr. Swift, but the Secretary says in a letter to 
us, “‘ We have found a pair of Bantams in one pen (query 185) 
and your skep opposite an empty one; and he “ decided to keep 
them until he had written” to us. Now, if these birds were 
found in pen 185, why were they not duly sent to us, when our 
hamper appears to have been the only one remaining? Why 
did the Secretary decide “to keep them?” At his request we 
sent a description of the birds belonging to us, and finished our 
description by saying, ‘‘The cock is rather patchy on the saddle, 


having a few brown feathers, not having got quite through the 
moult.’ Truly this could not be, if the eock’s saddle had been 
dyed ‘a lovely yellow.” We are prepared to send the bird for 
examination to Mr. Hewitt, Mr. Tegetmeier, or to the Editors of 
the Journal. We invite the strictest investigation into this (to 
us) most painful affair, as most assuredly we stand guiltless. We 
have submitted the bird for the inspection of several local fan- 
ciers who fail to discover, after the closest scrutiny, the least 
particle of dye, except such as has been placed there by Dame 
Nature herself. We beg to state, further, that the description 
of our birds was sent to the Secretary long before we heard or 
saw anything respecting a cock being dyed, as he (the Secretary) 
was ominously silent about it until we had acknowledged the 
arrival of our birds—Hupson & Buri, Epworth. 


[We received our information from Mr. Humphreys, the Se- 
cretary. Who dyed the cock? and was the dyed cock that 
which was returned to Messrs. Hudson & Burnip? are now 
matters in dispute.-—Eps. ] 


WOODBRIDGE POULTRY SHOW. 


THe first open Show was held at Woodbridge, in the Lecture Hall, 
on the 16th and 17th inst. There were about five hundred entries, 
for the accommodation of which there was scarcely sufficient, space. 
The pens (Turner's) were well arranged, yet they were in sfine in- 
stances three tiers high, to the evident disadvantage of some of the 
birds. Every attention was paid to the specimens placed in the hands 
of the Hon. Secretary, Mr. Drake, and they were well attended to as 
regards food and water. One or two of the cage birds were found 
dead on opening the cases, and we observed a Bullfinch pine away and 
die during the Show, and a Linnet Greenfinch Mule looking as though 
it would not get home alive, but nothing that could be done to save 
them was omitted. We should advise exhibitors not to send double 
tins attached to the cages, for with these it is impossible to keep the- 
seed dry. 

For Dorkings, the first prize was given to well-known Rose-combed 
birds, and the second to a capital pen of young birds. The class was 
of unusual merit for the time of year, when many of the best birds 
are breeding. Spanish were more numerous than the Dorkings, and 
some of the birds were of high merit, though some of them had te 
be fed by hand, being unable tosee. There were two classes of Cochins, 
and both colours were well represented. In the Buff the cup was wor 
easily, the hen being very large, and well developed in fluff and cushion, 
and the cock one of the best we have seen for some time. In the 
Partridge and other colours there were some good birds, the cockerel’ 
in the first-prize pen being perfection. The second prize went to 
Whites, and these were also very good. Dark Pramas were an ex- 
cellent class. The cockerel to which the cup was awarded was of un-- 
usual merit, and perfect in colour of plumage. Some of the other 
pens contained excellent hens, but the cocks were not of the same 
quality. Light Brahmas are looking up, and were it not for the slight 
yellowness of plumage, we might pronounce them perfect. In Game, 
the Duckwing cock in the first-prize pen was most handsome, but the 
hen not equal to him, otherwise the award of the cup would have been 
made to this pen instead of to the Brown Reds, to which it was given. 
They were about the most close-feathered we have ever handled. The 
Hamburgh classes were all good, and the cup awarded to the Silver- 
spangled, which were perfect. Gold-pencilled were first on the list. 
The first-prize pen, an adult cock and a pullet, were perfection in all 
points. The second were young birds, the pen losing only by a slight 
deficiency in the earlobes of both birds. Pen 89, highly commended, 
contained a grand cockerel, with but one fault, that of the tail, which 
was too high-coloured, though their chance was entirely destroyed by 
the openness of marking of the pnllet, which was almost as coarse as 
spangling at the ends of the feathers. In pen 82 the cockerel had- 
shrivelled earlobes, a red tail, part of which was out, and the breast 
was unevenly blotched with a lighter colour. The pullet had a plain 
tail, and not a single clear pencil mark on her, the colour of the body 
being mingled with the marking. In the Silver-pencilled only the 
prize birds were noteworthy, but the Gold-spangled were mostly good. 
the winners being only superior in the spangling on the neck and tail 
hackles of the cocks. In Polands, Silvers were first and Golden 
second, the lacing on the wings of the latter being something marvel- 
lous, though the former were superior in crest. French fowls were 2 
fair lot, Créye-Ceurs being first, and La Fléche second. In the 
Variety class 2 good pen of Malays were first, and Black Hamburghs 
second. Game Bantams were a large class. The first and cup was 
awarded to a gamey-looking pen of Black Reds, which distanced ali 
others, being faultless. The second-prize birds were also of that colour, 
the cockerel perfect, but the pullet a little mossy. In Bantams 
Black or White, the first and second-prize birds made a close run for 
the first position, both pens being all that could be wished for, the 
only turning point being the smallness of the first-prize pen, to which 
the cup was given. In the class for other varieties of Bantams, Laced 
won both prizes, the Silvers being of high merit in colour and lacing, 
although a little larger than the Golden pen. which was placed second. 
In the Selling classes the cup for cocks was given to a Brahma, and in 
hens to Silver-pencilled. 


224 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 28, 1871. 


We thought the Ducks good in both classes, but best in Aylesburys, 
the first-prize pen weighing 19} lbs. 

The Pigeon classes were the smallest in number, owing, doubtless, 
to the time of year, which is altogether inopportune for a show if 
numbers be expected. Mr. Yardley, who showed in great force, won 
the point cup, scoring thirty-eight points to Mr. Jones’s twenty-two. 
In Carrier cocks, both the winners were Blacks of high merit, but the 
Black hen shown by Mr. Yardley was the gem of the Carrier classes. 
In Ponters we were not struck with any special merit. In Tumblers, 
the first were Almonds of the highest quality, and the second Kites, 
very good in head, beak, and eye, and the first-named pen contained 
such a hen as is rarely seen, she being perfection in head properties, 
and rich in ground colour. Fantails were good, but evidently over- 
shown, and only the first pair of Owls, which were foreign Whites, 
were noteworthy. The first-prize pair of Red Jacobins were of the 
highest merit, being positively faultless, and the second-prize Blacks 
were also very good. The first prize in the Variety class went to 
Yellow Dragoons, which, in skull, beak, and colour, were one of the 
‘best pairs we remember to have seen. 

No portion of the Show was so keenly contested as the section for 
Cage Birds, Mr. Fenn-winning the point cup with fifty-four points out 
of twenty-two entries, Mr. Mackley coming second with fifty-two points 
out of twenty-eight entries, Mr. Walter thirty-two points out of 
seventeen entries, Mr. Ashton forty-two points out of twelve entries, 
and it will thus be seen that in point of quality, regardless of numbers, 
My. Ashton stood first, Mr. Fenn second, Mr. Walter third, and Mr. 
Mackléy fourth, although some of the latter gentleman’s birds, espe- 
cially the Belgians, seemed somewhat harrassed with their journey. 
Both Jongue and Mealy Norwich were well represented, the colour of 


some of the former being most intense, though several capital birds | 


were rather loose in appearance. Some of the Belgians were very 
dirty, and much more inclined for sleep than to be put through their 
paces. The gem of these classes was the Buff bird belonging to Mr. 
Walter. In Silver-spanged Lizards Mr. Mackley’s bird was good in 
all points ; Mr. Ashton’s second, although a little richer in colour, yas 
much the smaller bird, the cap not being so well defined at the back. 
{n Jonque Goldfinch Mules Mr. Ashton was unapproachable, for 
although there were many good birds in the class, none could with- 
stand these—No. 1, a four-pointed bird, evenly-marked; No. 2, four- 
pointed, but a little irregular. Both birds were a blaze of colour, and 
the gems of this department. In the class for Mealies, a smart bird, 
perfectly clear, was first, and a perfectly four-pointed bird second. 
The class for other varieties of Mules brought out the following, which 
won as placed—Linnet and Bullfinch, Goldfinch ana Bullfinch, 
Linnet and Canary, Linnet and Greenfinch, Siskin and Canary, and 
Greenfinch and Canary. In the Variety class-a London Fancy 
(Jonque), was first, and a four-pointed Yorkshire second. 


Doreres (Any variety)—1l, J. Martin, Claines, Worcester. 2, Henry Ling 
wood, Barking, Needham Market. hc, J.Smith, Shillinglee Park, Petworth (2); 
J. Frost; F. Parlett, Great Baddow (Coloured); Henry Lingwood; L. Patton, 
Hillmore, Taunton. c, F. Parlett (Colonred). 

SpPanisH.—1 and Cup, F. James, Peckham Rye. 2. Nicholls & Howard, Cam- 
berwell. he, H. Beldon, Goitstock, Bingley; J. Walker. 

Cocurys.—Cinnamon and Buff—1 and Cup, Lady Gwydyr, Stoke Park, Ips- 
wich. 2, Henry Lingwood (Buff). he, Henry Lingwood (Buff); J. K. Fowler, 
Aylesbury (Bult). Any other Variety—t. Lady Gwydyr (Partridge). 2, J. 
Conran b ates. he, Horace Lingwood, Creeting; J. Stephens, Walsall 

idge). 

Branuas.—Dark.—1 and Cup, Lady Gwydyr. 2, W. Adams, St. Clements, 
Ipswich. he, J. Watts, King’s Heath, Birmingham. Light.—1 and 2, F. Crook, 
Forest Hill. he, H. Dowsett, Pleshey: J. Pares. Postford, Guildford. 

Game.—Black-breasted and other Reds.—1 and Cup, Miss M. Fletcher, Stone- 
clough, Manchester. 2,S. Matthew, Stowmarket. lic, Miss M. Fletcher (2): S. 
Matthew (2). Any other Variety.—1 and he, S. Matthew. 2, Miss M. Fletcher. 

Haspurens.—Golden-pencilled.—l, H. Pickles, Earby. 2, H. Beldon. he, F. 
Pittis, jun., Newport, Isle of Wight. Silver-pencilled—l, H. Beldon. 2, H. 
Pickles. Golden-spangled.—1,H.Beldon. 2,J.Walker. hc,N.Marlor, Denton. 
c, H. Pickles. Silver-spangled.—1 and Cup, H. Beldon. 2, J. Walker. he, H. 
Pickles. c, Ashton & Booth, Mottram. 

Pouanps (Any variety)—l, H. Beldon. 2, W.K. Patrick, West Winch, Lynn 
{Gold). he, J. Hinton, Warminster (Silver); Lady Gwydyr (Gold). 

Frenox Fown (Any variety).—l, H.Beldon. 2, W.Burrows, Diss (La Fléche). 

ANY oTHER VaRrety.—l, Rey. A. G. Brooke, Shrawardine (Malay). 2, N. 
Marlor (Black Hamburghs). he, J. Fawcett, Whitby (Black Hamburghs); W. 
Wildey (Andalusians); Lady Gwydyr (Silkies). 

Game Banrams (Any variety)—land Cup, W. Adams (BrownReds). 2,J.W. 
Morris, Rochdale (Black Reds). vhc. W. Adams (Black Reds); E. Cambridge, 
Bristol (Black Reds). he, W.B. Jeffries, Ipswich (Black Red); T. Fenn, Ips- 
Wich (Black Reds). 

Bantams.—Black or White.——1 and Cup, S. & R. Ashton, Mottram. 2, E. 
Cambridze (Black). hc, H. Beldon; Rey. F. Tearle., Gazeley Vicarage (White). 
c, H. Pickles (Black). Any other Variety —1, Rev. G. F. Hodson, North Pether- 
ton (Sebrights). 2, M. Leno (Laced). hc, Rev. G. S. Cruwys, Cruwys Mor- 
chard. c,M.Leno (Laced); Rey. A. G. Brooke (Maltese), 

SELLING CxrAss.—Cock.—1l and Cup, H. Dowsett (Dark Brahma). 2, Mrs. M. 
Seamons, Aylesbury. fic, H. Beldon: J. Watts (Brahma). Hens.—l, Mrs. M. 
Seamons. Extra 1, Lady Gwydyr. hc, H. Dowsett (Brahma); J. Watts; J. 
Sichel; H.B. Smith, Broughton, Preston (White Dorkings); F. James; E. J. 
W. Stratford (Spanish). 

Ducks—Aylesbury.—1 and Cup, Lady Gwydyr. 2, Mrs. M.Seamons. lic, J. 
Williams, Wrath-np-Dearne; J. K. Fowler (2); Mrs. M. Seamons. Rouen.— 
1, Mrs. M. Seamons. 2, J. K. Fowler. he, L. Patton. Any other Variety.— 
1, M. Leno, Markyate Street (Viduata Whistling Ducks). 2. H.B. Smith (Caro- 
linas). ke, H. B.Smith (Mandarins); M. Leno (Carolinas) ; J. Watts (Carolinas); 
S. & R. Ashton; F. Pittis, jun. (Black East Indian). 

PIGEONS. — 

Carrier.—Cock—l, F. W. Metcalfe, Cambridge. 2 and hc, H. Yardley, Bir- 
Rae c, J. Philpott, Clapham. Hen—l and 2, H. Yardley. he, F. W. 
Metcalfe. 

PourEer.—Cock.—1 and2, P. H. Jones, Fulham. hc, J. Walker: W. Nottage, 
Nestea Hen.—l, H. Yardley. 2, W. Nottage. he, P. H. Jones; J. 

alker. 

TomMBLERS.—I and he, J. Ford, Monkwell St., London. 2, P. H. Jones. 

Fantats.—l, H. Yardley. 2,H.M. Maynard. he, P. H. Jones. 

Ow1s.—l, 2.H. Jones. 2,H. Yardley. he, J. Ford. 


TRUMPETERS.—1, P.H.Jones. 2. H. Yardley. 

Jacopins.—l, H. F. Wildey. 2, P. H. Jones. he, H. Yardley; P. H. Jones. 
é, J. Percival, Peckham. 

Nouns.—l and 2, H. Yardley. c,P. H. Jones. 

Bares.—l and 2, H. Yardley. he, P. H. Jones. 

ANTWERPS.—2, H. Yardley. he, H. Yardley; J. A. Ransome. 

,ANY OTHER VanreTy.—l, A. W. Wren, Lowestoft. 2, P. H. Jones. he, H. 
Yardley; H.F. Nalder (Turbits). c, H. Laver, Colchester (Silver Runts); J. 
A. Ransome, Ipswich (Silver Runts). 

SELLING Ciass.—l, Hon. Mrs. Paget (Starlings). 2,H. Yardley. he, Rev. A. 
G. Brooke (Brunswick). 
CANARIES. 


Norwicu.—Clear Yellow.—l, W. Walter, Winchester. 2, T. Fenn, Ipswich. 
whe, R. Mackley, Norwich. c, J. Frost; E.Lulham, Brighton. Clear Buf— 
land 2, W. Walter. vhe, T. Fenn (2); R. Mackley (2). 

Norwicu.—Warked or Variegated Yellow.—1, J. Close. 2 and c, T. Fenn. 
vhe, R. Mackley (2). Marked or Variegated Buf.—l, T. Fenn. 2, R. Mackley. 
vhe, T. Fenn; W. Walter. he, C. Drake, Ipswich. 

BELGIN. - Marked or Variegated Yellow.—l, J. Baxter, Newcastle. 2, J. 

Clear or Variegated Buf.—l, W- 


Close. vhe, R. Mackley. he, W. Walter. 
whe, W. Harley, Bow, London; J. Baxter (2); W. 


Walter. 2, R. Mackley. 
Walter. he, J. Close. 

Lizarp.—Golden-spangled.—1, R. Mackley. 2, H. Ashton, Polefield Hall, 
Prestwich. vhe,T. Fenn. he,E.Lulham. Silver-spangled.—l,T.Fenn. 2, H. 
Ashton. vhe, R. Mackley (2). 

GoiprincH MuLe.—Jonque.—1 and2, H. Ashton. vhc, T. Fenn; J. Baxter. 
he, A. Webster. Mealy.—l,H.Ashton. 2,3. Baxter. vic, H. Ashton; J. Baxter. 

MU.Lz (Any variety).—1 and 2, H. Ashton (Goldfinch, and Bullfinch, and Linnet 
Mule). vhe,H. Ashton (Linnet and Bullfinch); W. Walter (Linnet and Green- 
finch Mule); A. Webster, Kirkstall, Leeds (Bullfinch and Goidfinch Mule). he, R. 
Mackley (Siskin Mule) c, A. Webster (Greenfinch and Canary Maule). 

Canary (Any other variety).—1 and vhe, T. Fenn (Jonque and Mealy London 
Fancy, and Crested Yellow). 2,4. Webster (Evenly-marked Yorkshire). hc, E. 
Lulham (Variegated Yellow Crested Norwich); T. Fenn (Jonque Cinnamon) ; 
R. Mackley (Marked Buff Crested); T. Fenn (Jonque London Fancy). 

GoLpFINcH. BULLFIXCH, oR LINNET.—1, R. Mackley (Goldfinch). 2, W. 
Wyalten (Bullfinch). vhc, A. Webster (Bullfinch). he, T. Fenn (Bullfinch). 
c, J. Baxter. i» 

BritisH Birps (Any variety).—1, A. Webster (Bramling). 2, T. Fenn (Siskin). 
he. R. Meckley (Siskin). 

SELLING Crass (Any variety Canary or Mule).—1,T. Fenn. 2, R. Mackley 
(Norwich). vhc, T. Fenn (Norwich) (2); R. Mackley (Norwich). Z 

Forricn Birp (Any variety).—1, — Mackley (Red-faced Love Birds). 2, A. 
Webster (Java Sparrows). vhc. Miss E. A. Beles, Southwold (Crested Cardinals) 5 
W. Walter; R. Mackley (Shell Parroguets). 


The Judges were—for Hamburghs, Bantams, Pigeons, and Cage 
Birds, Mr. E. Hutton, Pudsey, Leeds, and for all other varieties, 
Mr. John Douglas, Clumber, Notts. 


PENRITH POULTRY SHOW. 


Few exhibitors would be prepared to find so greatly improved a 
Show as that just closed at Penrith. The new Market Hall possesses 
everything needful for the exhibition of such stock, and the poultry 
was well attended to under the personal direction of the Committee; 
and to the constant exercise of this necessary supervision no doubt the 
meeting owes its success. The Honorary Secretary, Mr. Pears, was 
most obliging and painstaking. 

The silver cup for Game fowls was secured by a first-class pen of 
Brown Reds exhibited by Mr. Boyes, of Beverley. Althongh in the 
general Game classes the birds proved good, strange to say in the 
single Game cock class only two birds were worthy of notice. The 
Silver-spangled breed were the best of the Hamburghs, Mr. Beldon 
taking the cup with a magnificent pen. Though the competition was 
open to all colours, the Dorking cup was secured by Mr. Ruttlidge with 
a pen of very honestly shown Silver-Greys. There was an abundance 
of excellent Cochins of every variety ; but the Spanish, though superior 
stock birds, were mostly shown in very inferior condition for the show 
pen. We scarcely ever remember seeing so good a “Variety” class, 
and reference to the appended prize list will show that the variety was 
as great as the quality was excellent. The Game Bantams were very 
indifferent, many of the best birds being in such sad health and so 
broken down by over-exhibition, that it was distressing to look upon 
them. The Local classes were as well filled as could be desired, the 
best Golden-spangled hens in the Show being entered in these classes. 
The improvement in this department of the Show was very marked. 

The Pigeons and Rabbits were a very creditable collection through- 
out, and from a fresh arrangement, which seemed to be much appre- 
ciated, they this year occupied a side room away from the poultry, &c. 

GamE.—Whites and Piles—1, C. W. Brierley. 2, J. Brough, Carlisle. Black- 
breasted and other Reds.—1 and Cup, W. Boyes, Beverley. 2,J.Brough. hc, A. 
Ainslie, Lightburn. Ulverston. Any other Variety.—l, J. Barrow, jun., Kendal. 
2, W. Boyes. c, E. Woodburn, Ulverston. Ohickens.—1, W. Boyes. 2,3. Brough. 
he, J. H. Wilson, St. Bees; T. Mashiter, Ulverston. Single Cocks.—1, C. W. 
Brierley. 2, J. Brough. c, J. H. Wilson. Cockerel—1, J. Brough. 2, C. W. 
Brierley. hc, W. Walton, Cocklake, Alston. i : 

Hampurcus.—Silver-spangled.—1 and Cup, H. Beldon, Goitstock, Bingley. 
2, Ashton & Booth, Mottram. he. A. Ainslie.- Golden-spangled—l, W. Bear- 
park, Ainderby Steeple. 2, H.Beldon. hc. Mrs. B. Sweeten. Penrith. Silver- 
pencilled, H. Beldon. 2, W. M. Mann, Kendal. hc, H. Pickles, jun., Barby. 
Golden-pencilled—1, W. R. Park, Melrose. 2, H. Beldon. he, H. Pickles, jun. 

Doreincs.—Silver-Grey.—1 and Cup, W. W. Ruttlidge, Kendal. 2, T. Raines, 
Stirling. hc, W. Jackson, Bolton-le-Sands. Coloured.—l, J. Fox, St. Bees. 
2, W. H.King, Rochdale. Chickens, (Any Nariety) 1, W. W. Ruttlidge. 2, J. 
White, Warlaby. hc, J. Watts, King’s Heath, Birmingham. t 

Gace oene tet J. Sichel, Timperley. 2, T. Stretch, Ormskirk. he, H. 
Lacey, Hebden Bridge; T. H. Readman; J. Watts. Brown and Partridge- 
Feathered.—i, J. White, Netherton, Wakefield. 2, T. Stretch. he, T. Sharp, 
Ackworth. eae cae ea hes Eins MG 

Spanisu.—Black.—1 and Cup, H. Beldon. 2, J.T. Hudson. C, a 5 
Pennant, Penrhyn Castle, Bangor. Chickens. and he, Hon. Miss D. Pennant. 


2, H. Beldon. S A 
"Brauma Poorrss.—l,.J. Sichel. 2, J.H. Pickles, Birkdale, Southport. he,H 
Lacey. 4 
aay W. Barnes, Blennerhasset, Aspatria. 2, J. Mashiter. jhe, WwW. 
Grice, Bootle; H. Beldon. Game.—Blac' -breasted and other Reds.—l, W. 
Grice. 2,G. Todd, Monkwearmouth. Any other Varvety.—l, J. W. Buckbank, 
Kirkseaton, Carnforth. 2, Bellingham & Gill. c, W. Grice; J. Anderson, 
other variety except Game.—1, M. Leno, Markyate Street (Silver-laced), 2, 
Beldon (Pekin). ho, H. Beldon (Black); Miss B. P. Frew (Silver-laced). 


a Ce eel ae 


i 
' 
\ 


Maren 28, 1971. ] 


ANY OTHER VARIETY EXCEPT Banrams.—l, H. Beldon (Silver-spangled Po- 
lands). 2, W. R. Park (Créve-Ceur). 8, T. Dean (Polands). hc, C. Armstrong, 
Carlisle (Golden-spangled Polands); J. Sichel (Houdans); H. Beldon (Golden- 
spangled Polands). c, F. Ainsworth (Black Hamburgh). 

GEESE.—1, S. H. Stott, Rochdale. 2, G. F. Statter, Carlisle. 

TUREEYS.—1 and Cup, L. Patten, Hillmore, Taunton. 2, N. Merkin, Great 
Driffield. he, Mrs. Butterfield, Penrith. 

Ducks.— White Aylesbury.—l, Mrs. J. Davidson, Greenhill, Penrith. 2, Mrs. 

Birkett, Ainstable. Rouwen—l and Cup, S. H. Stott. 2, J. Banks, Kendal. 
he, Mrs. J. Davidson; W. Myers, Ulverston; J. Banks. Any variety.—l, C.W. 
Brierley (Ruddy Shelldrakes). 2, S. H. Stott (Carolina). he, M. Leno (Man- 
darin and Carolina); J. J. Waller (Buenos Ayrean). 
» SELLING Cnass.—l, H. Lacey (Dark Brahmas). 2, J. Sichel (White Cochins). 
8, J. H. Wilson (Spanish). 4, W. W. Ruttlidge (Silver-Grey Dorkings). he, J. 
Brough (Brown Red Game); W. Linlow (Partridge Cochin); H. Beldon (Black 
Spanish); J. B. Story, jun. (Sidver-Grey Dorkings); Mrs. R. G. Pears, Penrith 
(Buff Cochins). c, Mrs. R. G. Pears (Partridge Cochins). 


LOCAL CLASSES. . 

Game (Any varicty).—1, J. Brough, Carlisle. 2,J. Davidson, Penrith. he, J. 
Bell, jun., Lazonby. 

SpanisH (Black)—1, T. Storey, Alston. 2, G.F. Statter. c, J. G. Armstrong. 

Dorxrnes (Any variety).—l, W. F. Winn, Bowerbank, Penrith. 2, Mrs. R. G. 
Pears. he, Mrs. Birkett; G. Hoadley. 

CocHtn-Cura (Any variety).—l, R. Pickering, Brampton. 2, Mrs. R. G. Pears. 

Brana Poorras (Any yariety).—l, R. Pickering. 2, Mrs. B. Sweeten. _ 

Bantams (Any variety).—1, R. Pickering (Black Bantams). 2,M. Taylor,jun., 
Penrith (Black-breasted Game Bantams). 

Any VaRsETy.—l, Mrs. B. Sweeten (Golden-spangled Hamburghs). 2, Mrs. 
Parker (Buif Cochins). hc, W. F. Winn (White Cochins); R. Pickering (Buff 
Cochins); J. Brough (Black Red Game); Mrs. R. G. Pears (Grey Dorkings and 
Partridge Cochius). c, Mrs, Birkett (Buff Cochins); Mrs. B. Sweeten (Part- 
ridge Cochims). 

Ducxss (Any variety).—1, J. Brown, jun. (Shell Ducks). 
Aylesbury). hc, Mrs. R. G. Pears (Rouen). 

PIGEONS. 

Canriers.—l, J. & W. Towerson, Egremont. 
he, H. Sawyer, Carlisle. 

Pouters.—l, H. Beldon. 2,H. Yardley. he, J. & W. Towerson. 

Runts.—l and c, H. Yardley. 2, R. Thompson, Penrith. 

Jacoprns.—l and 2, R. Thompson. hic, J. & W. Towerson. 

Fantatrs.—l, H. Beldon. 2, H. Yardley. 

TRUMPETERS.—1, J. & W. Towerson. 2, H. Beldon. 

Ow1s.—l, J. & W. Towerson. 2andc,R. Thompson. he, H. Beldon. 

Nons.—1, J. Turnbull, Melrose. hc, H. Yardley; W. Bearpark. 

TurReITS,—1 and c, R. Thompson. 2, J. Turnbull. he, H. Beldon; J. & W. 
Towerson (2). 

Bargs.—l, H. Yardley. 2, W. Jackson. 

TumBLERS.—Almond.—l, H. Beldon. 2, F. Moor, Burnley. hc, H. Yardley. 
Any variety —1, F. Moor. 2, J. & W. Towerson. 

Any Varrety.—l, H. Yardley. 2, J. Watts. he, H. Beldon; J. & W. Tower- 
son; R. Thompson. 

SELLING Cuass.—l, R. Thompson. 2, H. Sawyer (Black Trumpeters). 


CANARIES. 

BeEtermn.—Yellow.—l, J. Brown, jun. 2, W. Askins. c, R. Ryan, Penrith. 
Buff.—i, R. Carr, Carlisle. 2andc, T. Richardson, Kirkoswald. hc, J. Brown, 
jun., Penrith. 

MuueEs.— Yellow.—l, J. Robson, Bedlington. 2, W. Moor, Kirkoswald. Buff. 
—1,J.Robson. 2, R. Carr. 

Srneina Brrp (Any variety).—1 and 2, J. Brown, jun. (Yellow, with Green 
Cap). c, W. Stalker, Penrith. 

Rassits.—Lop-eared.—l, C. Gravil, jun., Thorne. 2 and he, TF. S. Arkwright, 
Sutton Scarsdale. Any variety—1l, S. G. Hudson, Hull. 2, D. P. Gooding, 
Colchester. he, C. Gravil, jun. c, G. T. Hardman (Silver-Grey); S. Green- 
wood, Hebden Bridge; S. G. Hudson. 


Mr. Edward Hewitt, of Birmingham, and Mr. Richard Teebay, of 
Preston, were the Judges. 


2, R. Sanderson 


2, H. Yardley, Birmingham. 


ec, R. Thompson. 


NOTES FROM MY CANARY ROOM.—No. 2. 


BEForeE getting any birds, a suitable house properly furnished 
must be provided for the young couple. If it be intended to 
put up a single pair in a quiet corner of the breakfast room, 
that you may enjoy the pleasure of seeing them give their little 
family their breakfast while you are having yours, then an 
ordinary breeding cage such as is supplied by the London 
dealers will suffice, and being usually made of mahogany or 
other ornamental wood, is by no means an unsightly ornament 
to the walls. Such, however, is not the description of cage 
used by those who embark more freely in Canary-breeding. My 
cages cover the walls of my room, and have from two to twenty 
compartments. The best dimensions for each compartment 
are 18 inches long, 16 inches high, and 10 inches from back to 
front, wired with No. 16 wire at the distance of half an inch 
from centre to centre—that is, if the holes are pricked exactly 
half an inch apart, the space between the wires will be some- 
what less, end just the required width for safety and strength. 
The door should be not less than one-third the height of the 
cage, large enough to admit the hand with a pot of green food, 
or to allow of free motion in the inside when a good white- 
washing is necessary, which is at the beginning and end of 
every season. Mix some common whiting with thin paste till 
it is of a consistency just thin enough to work freely with the 
brush, and thoroughly paint the interior with the composition, 
working it well into all the cracks to give the red mites, which 
often pester the Canary, no home. Let there be two stout 
perches from back to front, about 6 inches apart, and projecting 
an inch or two through the wires to admit of their being grasped 
when a change in their position may be necessary, or for re- 
moving them now and then to give them a scrape and a rub, 
for nothing is more injurious to a bird’s feet than a dirty perch. 

The nest must be hung up at the back of the cage between 
the two perches and about on a level with them, and may 


Snr 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


225 


either be a wood box about 3} inches square and 2 inches deep, 
such as can be had at any bird shop, or it may be of tin or of 
unglazed earthenware, which cannot be had in a general way at 
any shop, at least I think not. I believe the tin and pot nests 
are peculiar to the north. We, having potteries on the banks 
of the Wear, can obtain sundry little things made to order, and 
these unglazed nests among them. Very neat and pretty they 
are, snowy white, cool and ornamental withal. Supply moss 
and soft doe hair, and the hen will soon build herself a beau- 
tifal nest in the wood box. If. tin or pot nest be used, line it 
with a piece of saddler’s felt. There are two or three kinds of 
which I do not know the tradenames; but what I use is brown. 
about three-eighths of an inch thick, tough and strong, but it 
splits easily into two thicknesses. Cut this into circular pieces, 
notch the edges, and fit into the nest box, fastening it through 
the holes in the bottom if it be of tin, or with stiff paste if the. 
pot nest be used. Supply moss and hair, and the hen will 
line the artificial nest according to her own ideas of comfort, 
or, if no extra material be furnished, she will work the fels 
alone into proper shape. The advantage possessed by the arti- 
ficial over the natural nest is, that it can more readily be 
changed if infested by red mites. 

One more glance at the outside of the cage. The seed anc 
water-hole arrangement is too well known to need any descrip- 
tion; but when a cage consists of two or more compartments 
the seed-hoppers must be so arranged as to be get-at-able from 
two divisions at once. For a sitiing-room the ordinary glass 
bottle for seed and water is the best arrangement, as the 
closed-in head prevents either from being scattered on the floor, 
but on a larger scale tin water-vessels to hook on and off are 
most generally used. 

A correspondent writes me that the great art of teaching is. 
to endeavour to realise the utter ignorance of the pupil. Quite 
right. No elementary teaching can be too simple, and he is. 
the best teacher who can best adapt his teaching to the capacity 
of his pupil. Iam writing for those who, I take for granted, - 
are entirely ignorant of the subject, and learned critics must 
not say, ‘‘ Why, everyone knows this and everyone knows 
that!” Itis a great mistake; everyone does not know it. 

Having cleaned, sanded, and seed-and-watered your cage, 
hang it against the wall in a light pleasant corner; sit down 
in front of it and admire it, and next week I will tell you what 
to put in it—W. A. Branson. 


WCODBRIDGE CANARY SHOW—ANOTHER 
PRIZE LIST EXTRAORDINARY. 


A snort time ago an article appeared in the Journal relative to the 
result of the cup competition at a northern show. The arguments 
therein adduced were to my mind very conclusive. A glance at the 
margin of the Woodbridge catalogue aifords another evidence alike of 
the absurdity and injustice of giving a value to commendations in a. 
cup competition. I will present two scores, and ask any person who 
understands what high-class Canaries and Mules are which is the 
better of the two? Mr. Ashton sends twelve birds and wins sever 
prizes—viz., 3 first prizes — 18 points; 4 second prizes — 16 points; 
= 34 points in prizes. Add 2 very highly commendeds — 4 points. 
Total, 53 points. Mr. Fenn sends sixteen birds and wins five prizes— 
viz., 3 first prizes — 18 points; 2 second prizes — 8 points; — 26 points. 


in prizes. Add 7 very highly commendeds = 14 points. Total, 
40 points. The absurdity is so self-evident as to need no demon- 
stration. The injustice is equally patent. I wonder how any thinking 


body of men can commit themselves to the issue of a schedule offering 
a trophy to be competed for on such an unfair footing, virtually 
making it a gift uot to the winner of the greatest number of prizes, 
but to the man who, without winning a single prize, can still carry off 
the prize of prizes. Of all the anomalies in connection with our bird 
shows this is the greatest, and requires to be attacked unflinchingly, 
striking as it does at the root of al! meritorious competition. 

I could make a few comments, too, upon the judging, though Tam 
always inclined to be liberal in the extreme in this respect. But my 
chavity is frozen in face of the fact that a Silver Lizard which has 
been exhibited nine times this season, not only in provincial shows, 
but at the Crystal Palace, where it stood for the ninth time a peerless 
unbeaten gem, should at Woodbridge be left out in the cold; while 
another, which could approach it no nearer than by a very high com- 
mendation, and which was referred to by one of our ablest judges in 
a review of the Palace Show as being so hazy and indistinct in its 
spangles as tobe “in a cloud,” was at Woodbridge placed before it.— 
A CoRRESPONDENT. 


VENTILATION OF HIVES DURING WINTER. 


My bees are all located in Woodbury frame hives, and have 
for many years been exposed to full ventilation during the 


226 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 23, 1871. 


whole of the winter, without in a single instance sustaining 
the slightest injury even from the most severe frost. The 


hives are in the open garden, each on its own stand, protected | 
from the wet by an outer covering, consisting merely of 2 | 


square frame or box, without top or bottom, which fits loosely 
over the hive, and is surmounted with a loose sloping cover 
which cen be lifted off at any time without disturbing the hive 
or its protecting exterior covering. 

My mode of ventilating is extremely simple. I merely re- 
move the bung from the top of the hive, put a piece of perfo- 
rated zine over the orifice, and allow all the heat and vapour 


generated inside the hive to escape freely into the open air, as | 


a perfectly free circulation exists in every direction between 
the hive and its external cover. The bungs are removed in 
November, and not replaced until the winter is fairly over— 
z.é., from the middle to the end of February. On March 4th 
T overhauled two of my hives, one of wood, the other of straw, 
and found the bees and combs in both quite free from damp, 
and in excellent condition. The wooden hive, as it chanced, 
was mach the stronger, but both alike contained young bees 
and brood in all stages, and the queens seemed to be in full 
laying condition. 

With ventilation bees seem to me to do quite as well ina 
properly-constructed wooden box as in a hive made of straw; 
‘ut where ventilation is neglected straw is, without doubt, the 
best material. E. B. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


WoopEripcGe Pouttry SHow (4 Suffolk Amateur).—We cannot insert 
your letter. The judge would defend his awards, and our space would be 
needlessly occupied, for no satisfaction would be given to anyone. 


EGG-PRESERVING (C. M. M.).—We know nothing of the preparation you 
mention. 


SHELL-LESs Eees (May).—As your fowls have large heaps of lime 
rubbish to frequent, we incline to think that they are too fat,and that 
their egg-organs are over-excited. In that case the stimulants you gave 
would be injurious. Give each a dessert-spoonful of castor oil, abundance 
of green food, and less nourishing food, also less of it. 


Exctupixe Fowns (4. B.).—Your neighbour shold be compelled to 
Keep his fowls from trespassing. If you choose to be at the expense, put 
up a galvanised-iron netting 3 feet high all round, with no bar at the top. 
The widest-meshed netting would do and is the cheapest. 


AspEcT oF HEN-HOUSE (F. R.).—The more sunshine on the run the 


better, provided there is one shaded, covered part under which a heap of | 


sand and coal ashes can be kept dry, so that the fowls can have a dusty 
bath at pleasure. 

Dorxine’s ToncuE DisEAseD (H. S. F.).—The complaint from which 
your Dorking cock is suffering is an accidental thing and cannot be here- 
ditary. Feel the tongue with your finger, if there be any callosity remove 
it with thethumb-nail. You may treat it with astrong solution of alum, 
with essence of wormwood, or with any powerful astringent. You run no 
risk in breeding from him. > 

CrossiInc HawsurGHs WITH Game (G. E. A.).—It is almost an im- 
possibility to breed winning cocks and hens of the Hamburgh breed from 
the same parents. 
but we would not breed from any bird with a faulty comb. In breeding 
for exhibition, if the hens are deficient in any property they should be 
put to a cock having those qualities alniost to excess. 

CINDERS AND Fowts’ Feet (A Young Amateur).—Cinders make a very 
bad bottom for a poultry-pen. In the event of avy fowl having a tender 
Toot, the cinders perforate the skin and Jay the foundation of an ulcer. 
Another objection to them is, they afford no scratch for the fowls. Cover 
your run with loose earth, and with lots of road-grit. We presume from 
the tenor of your query, your fowls are kept in confinement. Supply 
them with large sods of growing grass cut with plenty of earth. You 
Tmust endeavour to give them all they would get if they were at liberty. 
if they are to be healthy, they must be able to scratch, they must have dust 
to bask in, and they must have access to fresh earth and growing gras. 

Bran FoR Povuttry (Puzzled).—Your friend’s success is at most only 
an exception to a rule, and the ages of the fowls might, if we knew them, 
afford a clue to it. To be able to judge, we shonld know the quantity of 
barley given at the one meal; if abundant, then bran was only needed 
for crop-filling. We cannot keep our fowls under 2d per week per head, 
and shall be more than grateful if your friend will publish some details 
of his feeding that we may reduce onr expenses. What were the fowls 
he exhibited ? Andalusians can only show in the variety class, and there 
are seldom classes for cross-breds. We consider the laying very satis- 
factory. 

Fe FoR Fowts (J. Clark).—When time permits, we make our 
infusion of camphor by putting broken camphor in a bottle, in sufficient 
quantity to fill th bottle one-quarter, we then fill-up with cold water and 
Jet it stand till it becomes that which was formerly called camphor julep. 
If it is necessary to make it in a hurrv, it can be done by breaking-upa 
jarge lump, putting it in any vessel that will admit of being closed, and 
filling with hot, almost boiling water. Whenever we see any indications 
of failing in our chickens, we always put camphor in all their water- 
vessels, and sometimes add wormwood. Camphor cures gapes and pre- 
vents coutagion \ 

SpanisH Cock’s Face WounDED ‘Black Spanish).—Rub the face with 
citron or spermacetiointment. It willsoon heal. You must not put him 
with hens, as they will pick the wounded places to his great detriment. 

Various (W. T.).—The hen was not really broody, no hen is so that 
lays five eggs in a week. Sitting hens should not be with the others. 
They should be ina plac» apart. When you buy a broody hen she should 
be put in a low basket that does not allow her to stand up, and should be 
covered so as to bein the dark. She should be put on her eggs at night, 


We do not think much of the light colour of the legs, | 


'in a box or basket, still low as we have described, and shut down in the 


| dark. She should be taken off to feed the next day, and replaced in the 

basket or box under the same circumstances. Hens have their likes and 
dislikes, and will very often decline to sit in a new place if they can 
escape. It does not matter that the eggs are three weeks old, if they 
have not been sat upon. They will hatch as well at three weeks’ end as they 
will the day after they are laid. Your Pigeon is cramped, or is diseased 
at the knee-joints, it will not get overit. There is nosuch thing asa 
rose-combed Cochin. If you keep cross-bred birds keep him, if you do 
not, put him in the stock-pot. (West View).—Lower your perches, bring 
them within 2 feet of the ground. Let the house ba cleaned every day, it 
is only the work of a few minutes. Your feeding is too liberal, you will 
improve by discontinuing the wheat, potatoes, and flour. We believe they 
have somewhat to do with the complaint. Give in the morning barley or 
Indian corn, scraps and ground oats at midday, and whole corn in the 
evening. We believe these alterations will prevent all you complain of. 
If they do not, it will be because the secretions are at fault. In that case 
| give Baily’s pills, but we do not think you will need them. 

PIGEON UNABLE TO STAND (Anzious).— Most probably the thigh bone is 
dislocated. We saw such a case in a friend’s loft. A Jacobin was unable 
to stand, but ate well. We took the bird in hand, passed the finger up 
the leg, and found the joint was out of the socket; we gently drew the 
leg down and put the leg in place, and then bound the whole limb with 
a piece of broad tape, removed the bird to a cage in a quiet place, and it 
speedily recovered. It might be well to muffle the other leg, and tie the 
wings, so as to prevent the bird struggling, and give only light twice a-day 
in order for it tosee to eat and drink. It will be quieter in the dark. 

Canary MoULTING IN THE SPRING (Vulcan).—It happens now and then 
that a bird will monlt all its body feathers in the spring, not its tail and 
flights. I have had hens do so and breed well. There is no reason why 
the cock should be useless—none whatever. Give him a trial —W. A. B. 

BrEEs In 4 Woopzsury Hrve (i. G. B.).—You may try if the bees will 
accept either ryemeal or wheaten fiour in lieu of pollen; also give them 
2 or 3 ozs. of liquid food m an inverted bottle on fine days, say about 
twice a-week if practicable. This treatment, coupled with the advent of 
spring, will probably put a stop to the mortality. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CaxDEN, SQuaRE, LoNDON. 


Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Dare. | 9 ant Ix Taz Day. 
| 
ie Radiation 
|$S2 .| Hygrome- = Shade Tem-| ‘pempera- 2 
is7l. |2eS=| 72 Direc- | Temp. s P = 
E275 ter. tion ofjof Soil erate ture. 3 
March.|/3253 Wind. | at1 ft. In On 
A227) Dry. | Wet Max. | Min.| sun. | grass| 
Inches.| deg. | deg deg deg. | deg. dez.| deg.| In. 
if iz 34.0 N. 42.2. 41.2 | 29.0 | 89.0 | 26.3 | 0.875 
85.2 N.E. 41.2 44.0 | 328 | S41 | 31.6 | 0.022 
| 370 N. 41.3 46.8 | 30.2 | 78.9 | 28.0 = 
| 441 | N: | 405 | 580 | 364 | 813 | 320) — 
| | 45.2 | S.W. 41.5 56.4 | 42.0 | 79.0 | 39.8 = 
| 43.6 S. 414 55.5 | 87.3 | 76.6 | 33.2 => 
38.8 | S. 41.3 54.8 | 344 | 94.8 33.6 = 
414 | 397 41.3 | 50.8 | 34.6 | $3.4 | 82.1 | 0.397 
H ! 
REMARES. 


15th.—Snow, large flakes between 6 and 9 a.m, fine at noon, heavy snow 

16th.—Snow and rain at 1] 4.x. ({ after midnight. 

17th.—Ice in the road in the morning, warmer in the evening. 

18th.—Dull day, very little sun. 

19th.—Fine morning, thick in the middle of the day. 

20th.—Foggy and dark in the morning, and rather thick all day. — 

21st—Rather dull in the morning, but the rest of the day beautiful and 
spring-like- 

Another fine mild week. Rapid fall of barometer from 29770 at 9 P.3ey 
on 15th, to 29 357 at 9 4.u.,on 16th, from which time it rose quickly, being 
29 462 at 11.10 am, 29.497 at 11.30 a.ar., 29.572 ‘at 0.30 P.ar., and 30.023 at 
9 p.u.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Manrcu 22. 


THERE has been a fair attendance here and prices remain nearly the 
same as last week. The Continental trade was beginning to revive, but 
has again been checked by the untoward events in Paris. Articles of 
good quality, both in fruit and vegetables, now find a ready market ; some 
good new hothouse Grapes and Strawberries are among the former. 


FRUIT. 


a da s.d. s. d 
6 0 6 Otol) O 
0 G 20 60 
0 0 80 80 
0 6} Pine Apples .. . 6 0 10 0 
0 0} Strawberries . Fee 
0 Q| Walnuts.... 100 WO 
Lemons......--..+. #100 6 @ 10 0 dO...ccccecereee M100 1:0 2 O 
VEGETABLES. 
7 dtold | Lett eee gee 
Aspara; sesceeee #100 7 OtolO O/| Lettuce ............ doz. 0 
Beuns, Kidney 2 z 20 $8 6} “ bo 26 
Beet, Red............ 7 2 0 8 0} o2 00 
Broccoli ........ bundle 0 9 1 6 56 8 0 
Brussels Sprouts..¢sieve 3 0 4 0) o4 00 
Cabbage............ doz 10 2 0} 890: ETO: 
Care bunch Q * 0 A q = z p 
Cauliflower. pec 5 0) 
16 2 0} eS: 0) e280) 
3.0 6 0} 0) (6 sotao 
06 1 6} 09 16 
20 0 0} LB era 
08 00 2/0. J880 
08s 00 66 00 
08 200) 80 50 
80 6 0} 00 «06 
04 00) Ca ee 


March 80, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 227 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day! |/Da Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun | Moon | Moon | Moon's | Clock | Day 
Month| Week. MARCH 30—APRIL 5, 1871, ture near London. |48 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets. | Age. | Pefore | of 
Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. |m. h.| m. h.| m. m. h.| Days, | m. 8. 
30 | TH | Meeting of Royal Society, 8.30 P.M. 53.7 | 84.3 | 44.0 ALS) 43 af5 | 28af6 | 3 11 Oaf3 9 4 37] 89 
BL EF Cambridge Lent Term ends. 55.8 | 83.9 | 44.6 18 41 5|30 6) after. | 41 38 10 4 19 90 
Laas: Oxford Lent Term ends. 55.0 | 84.4 | 44.7 21 38). 5)) 31. 64),15,, 1,15 4 il 4 0] 91 
2 | Sun | 6 Sunpay my Lent. Pato SUNDAY. | 57.8 | 86.7 | 46.9 pal 36 5/383 6)32 2)47 4 12 8 42] 92 
3 | M Meeting of Entomological Society, 7 P.M. 57.1 | 86.7 | 46.4 20 B4\ (be 985) GF 52) 8) 71 2 5 18 8 24] 93 
4 | Tu | Meeting of Zoological Society, 9 P.M. | 56.7 | 35.7 | 46.2 17 82° 5 |.87 6) 12 5 | 88 5 14 8 6] 94 
5 WwW Royal Horticultural Society, Fruit, Floral, | 57.0 | 36.7 46.0 21 290.5 (+389 G6yle85i- 651/535. 5 fe) 2 48 95 
[and General Meeting. | 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, 
perasares 85.5°. The greatest heat was 78°, on the 3rd, 1848; and 
19 inch. 


the average day temperature of the week is 56.1°, and its night tem- 
the lowest cold 16°,on the Ist, 1838. The greatest fall of rain was 


CELERY CULTURE. 


AVING seen such excellent Celery for sale 
in Dublin, as well as grown in various gar- 
dens near that city, I cannot believe, as 
“OnE in Trovuste” suggests, that there is 
anything in the climate to prevent as good 
Celery being obtained there as in the north 

. of Treland. 

As stated a short time ago, I do not place 

‘the same value on large Celery as I used to 
‘do; [am more partial to serviceable sweet 
heads. A huge head is all very well if it is so sent to 
table, but if the employer does not insist on its being sent 
to him as it comes from the hands of the gardener, a head 
as large as a man’s thigh, when it appears at the table, 
will be no larger than one the size of his wrist. Ihave 
known some gentlemen so fond of the bottom part of Celery 
just above the roots that they would allow neither butler 
nor cook to trim it, but did all the cutting and trimming 
themselves. I rather think the employer of ‘“ ONE IN 
Trovste” should do so, if he expects to be satisfied. I 
am convinced that moderate-sized Celery is generally the 
crispest and sweetest, and chiefly because it has not been 
afforded an extra quantity of manure, nor any which was 
rank and fresh, as such will always have a tendency to 
affect the flavour of the Celery. I have had some wonder- 
ful heads to look at by making a sort of hotbed with 
rank manure in the trench, and covering with 9 inches 
of rotten dung and soil, but I will say nothing of the crisp 
sweetness of such huge Celery. 

There are several remarks suggested by the letter of 
“OnE IN Trovuste.” First, if the soil in the field is of the 
same character as that in the garden, he will not be likely 
to succeed better in the one place than in the other. Ido 
not know what the subsoil after the first, spit is, but if 
hard and barren I would take out a portion, loosen the 
bottom, and then fill the trench to nearly the usual height 
with sweet rotten dung and leaf mould mixed with the 
best soil. It is of no use going deep into uncongenial soil. 
IT often find that late Celery succeeds best when planted 
almost on the level, the soil along the side being banked 
up to blanch it. The deep trench is of little use, except 
as affording facilities for abundant watering ; but plenty of 
water can be given if the plants are only a couple of inches 
or so below the level. 

In the second place, I certainly should not use fresh cow 
dung if I could obtain anything else. Very rotten hotbed 
dung, or leaf mould somewhat rough and rather more than 
half decayed, mixed with the best of the surface soil would 
be much better. If even such dung is put into the trench 
early, and turned and aired several times before being 
mixed with the soil for planting, the Celery will be all the 
crisper and sweeter. I like to have from 6 to 9 inches of 
such hotbed manure and leaves mixed with about an equal 
portion of the best soil. 

Thirdly, all Celery that grows freely, and especially 
when loosely tied, will have a tendency to crack the out- 
side leafstalks at the base; but as these are generally 

No, 522.—Vou, XX., NEw SERIES. Y 


removed, and if used at all, used for soups, &c., that is of 
less consequence. It would be well to see that your Celery 
is not dressed over-much after it leaves you. I knew a 
gentleman who came to his gardener to complain about 
the smallness of the Celery, and was astonished when he 
saw the fine clean blanched heads. He had never seen 
more than a bit at the heart about 3 inches in length. I 
hope your correspondent will succeed in pleasing his em- 
ployer, but the task will be a difficult one, if after thirty 
years’ experience of London he never obtained a good 
head of Celery. What say the London market gardeners ? 
I know that Celery, after being wilted at market and on 
the stands, is very different from Celery taken at once 
from the trench to the table. 

The disfigurement of the plants by worms and slugs can 
be greatly obviated, first by mixing some quicklime with 
the manure and soil in the trench sometime before plant- 
ing, by watering with clear lime water several times without. 
wetting the heads of the plants, and by using sifted ashes 
round the plants at earthing-up time. 

Your correspondent is quite correct in his estimate of 
the importance of shade, especially for the earliest crops 
of Celery. It brings us at once to the main principle in- 
volved in the cultivation of Celery. By cultivation and 
the blanching resorted to.we change the plant from an 
acrid somewhat unwholesome vegetable into a sweet and 
wholesome one; but we do not and cannot so change its 
mode of growth as to make a ditch plant flourish on the 
exposed plain, or on the top of adry mound. The Celery 
naturally flourishes better on the side of a ditch, where 
there is a little moving water than in the morass where 
the water is stationary. Hence, though a Celery trench 
can take abundance of water when the plants are growing, 
these will not do so well nor be so sweet where the water 
stands on a retentive bottom. The sides of the ditch it- 
self, and the accompanying vegetation, furnish a certain 
amount of flickering shade in which the Celery delights : 
hence when rows and beds for early use are planted, it is 
found that the Celery flourishes all the better with staked 
Peas between the rows. Without them I use a little 
artificial shade by means of laurel boughs, &c. Last year 
I kept Celery—the earliest—alive and healthy with very 
little water, by rather dense shading. Water here was 
like so much costly wine. 

T also agree with “ Onz 1 Trovstz,” and of course do 
not agree with his employer, that good Celery cannot be 
obtained without good decayed dung, or, as a substitute, a 
careful application of liquid manure. When I want a 
proof I just go back again to the ditch, and there, wherever 
the Celery flourishes naturally, if we do not find much 
depth of rich soil we shall find the stratum occupied by 
the roots a rich one, however shallow the crust may be, 
the richness being the result of the annual decay and de- 
composition of grasses and weeds. Ihave had sweet heads 
with very little manure, but unless I gave manure water- 
ings freely the heads were small. ae 

Once more. The ditch, with just the least quantity] of 
moving water, furnishes the whole key-note for the suecess- 
ful cultivation of Celery, so as to keep it as a growing 

No. 1174.—Vou. XLYV., OLD SERIES. 


228 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 30, 1871. 


plant, and not as a seeding plant, and this applies especially to 
the earlier crops. From the time the Celery is pricked out, 


transplanted to the trenches, &c., until taken up for use, the’ 


roots should never be dry. Every time this dryness occurs, and 
just in proportion to the strength and size of the plants, will an 
effort be made on their part in self-defence to throw up their 
flower stems, instead of mere extension of growth. Hence the 
whole system of gradually earthing-up early Celery a few inches 
at a time was radically wrong, as I endeavoured to show years 
ago. Every such earthing-up prevented waterings, rains, and 
dews from affecting the roots, whilst the fine foliage in bright 
weather threw off moisture so freely that ere long the roots 
became as dry as if the soil about them had been dried on 
purpose, and, as stated before, up came the flower stem in self- 
defence. The same principle applies to every plant, but it was 
overlooked in the case of the Celery. Arrest by any means 
vigorous growth, and you encourage the flowering and fruiting 
or seeding process. Hence for all early Celery, except just a little 
sprinkling of earth after watering to arrest evaporation, I pre- 
fer tying the Celery loosely, which encourages the heart to rise 
a little, watering well a day or two before earthing-up, and 
making that earthing-up the first and last, doing this earthing- 
up three weeks, or a little more, before the heads are wanted 
for use. When I used to have Celery in July and August I 
thus earthed-up small quantities at a time so as to come in 
in succession to each other. By adopting this plan I have 
rarely had a bolted bead of early Celery. As the cool nights of 
autumn come on, when loss of moisture from evaporation from 
the foliage is reduced to a minimum, the old bit-by-bit system 
of earthing-up may be followed with advantage.—R. Fisu. 


ROSES, OLD AND NEW. 


WirH regard to old Roses, what a pity that such fine and 
excellent Roses 28 Baronne Prevost, Gloire de Vitry, Duchesse 
d’Orleans, and Monsieur de Montigny, should be expunged 
from some of our catalogues. They are noble Roses here, and 
good throughout the year, andin every year. Mr. Cranston, so 
far as my catalogues go, is the only nurseryman who still retains 
M. de Montigny. It is one of the finest of the large Roses, 
very healthy, and scarcely ever suffers either from white or red 
fungus. I have sixteen plants of it on the Manetti, and have 
had them for many years. I hope it will be reinstated. It 
is a good grower on the Manetti, and a continual, and very late 
bloomer. 

One word about new Roses, or Roses of late date. I recom- 
mend the following as fine choice Roses, of excellent growth on 
the Manetii—Edward Morren, Souvenir de Mons. Poiteau, 
Mademoiselle Eugénie Werdier, and Marquise de Castellane. 
This is a lovely Rose. I was much pleased with it last trying 
season. I recommend, as a good grower and beautiful Rose, 
Madame Trifle (Tea). The blooms of Marie Sisley and Louis 
Van Houtte are most beautiful; the latter has no equal in 
its hue. I have a plant of each, but neither showed that 
vigour of growth that I like. Still, last season was a very 
trying one for juveniles on weak stocks. At present I can 
only recommend the two Roses for their blooms. I am a ‘slow 
coach ;”’ but some coaches are too fast, and upset the pas- 
sengers. The Marquise de Montmartre is beautiful, but the 
plant has not yet exhibited growth enough. Madame Levet 
(Tea) I have not yet bloomed, but it is a nice grower, and looks 
like the sister of Madame Trifle. Monplaisir (Tea) is hardy 
and an excellent grower, and I think it promising, but must 
see it another season, before I will undertake to recommend it. 

We have had a hyperborean winter here, and these Roses 
(not yet bloomed) have wintered out of doors triumphantly, 
from one to six plants each—Jules Chrétien, Nardy Fréres, 
Madame Jacquier, Comtesse d’Oxford, Madame Chirard, 
Madame W. Paul (Moss), Abbé Giraudier, Paul Neron, Dupuy 
Jamain, and Cléménce Raoux, a very fine grower. 

One word about Felix Genero. I recommended this lovely 
and admirable Rose some time ago, and my recommendation 
was pulled up by ‘“‘the fast coaches.” Mr. Cranston kindly 
sent me his new edition of his Rose book, and I see there 
‘one hundred hardy Roses suitable for growing in the neigh- 
bourhood of large manufacturing towns, where much smoke 
prevails.”” Among the fifty best is Felix Genero. Among the 
fifty best out of one hundred for the north of England and 
Scotland, also for cold localities, is Felix Genero. Among the 
best one hundred Roses for show, is Felix Genero. Among 
the selection of the finest Roses for pot culture, is Felix Genero. 
My rosery is in most beautiful condition, considering that Iam 


a ‘slow coach.” I lost only eight Roses out of 1,833 last 
winter.—W. F. RapciyFrer. 


GOLDEN CHAMPION AND BLACK MUSCAT OF 
ALEXANDRIA GRAPES. 


SrrancE it is that complaints of this fine Grape should ap- 
pear now and then in the Journal. The Muscat Hamburgh 
(Black Muscat of Alexandria], has likewise been condemned by 
many. Some have characterised it as unfruitful; others as 
weak in growth and constitution, and subject to nearly all the 
ills attacking the Grape Vine. Now, it has been my fortune to 
plant and grow the Muscat Hamburgh in three different places 
widely separated in Scotland, one place being in Berwickshire, 
another near Peterhead, in Aberdeenshire, and the third in 
Forfarshire. Under these different conditions of soil and 
climate, I have found this Grape equal to a Black Hamburgh 
in every way, so far as growth, and setting, showing, and per- 
fecting its fruit are concerned, and on all occasions the Vines 
were on their own roots. 

My experience with the Golden Champion has not been so 
extended, but so far as that experience goes I shall detail the 
results. We have it planted in two different houses here, one 
in what we intend to be the early house. This house has its 
borders heated outside and inside. Another plant has a place 
in a succession house, which is filled principally with Muscats. 
Both Vines had been planted a year last June, when each had 
grown from eyes of the preceding year to be a shoot of 3 feet 
long, and was in an 8-inch pot. Both plants made good growths 
and showed fruit freely last spring. Of the bunches, we re- 
moved all but one in the Muscat house, which bunch I ulti- 
mately reduced in size, fearing it might injure the growth. 
What remained succeeded well; the berries swelled largely ; 
colour, golden amber, with a faint russet shade next the sun. 
I attribute this red cast to the syringing. Growth being our 
object, the few bunches of fruit in the house were not con- 
sidered. If fault can be found with thin-skinned berries, this 
is one in the Golden Champion, so much s0, that one or two 
cracked, but not until the fruit had hung dead ripe for some 
time. The flavour was rich and luscious, with that pleasant 
smack peculiar to the variety. Last autumn the growth made 
by the Vine in the early house extended 24 feet, and that in 
the intermediate house 18 feet. 

Now for the promise of the present year. Our first house of 
Vines has reached the condition that makes it convenient to 
thin the fruit bunches, the Vines having all broken nicely. I 
find some instances of blind eyes on the Golden Champion in 
this house, but not to the extent complained of by your corre- 
spondent, ‘‘ Henry Nicholls.” Many of the eyes show double 
bunches on the main rod, but the laterals are certainly de- 
ficient. This, however, is not the case with the Vine in the 
Muscat house, spurs and main rods are alike bursting fruit. 
Perhaps the extra heat applied to ripen the Muscats last autumn 
may account in some measure for this difference, but so far as 
I can speak I have no reason to condemn, but rather feel most 
hopeful of the Golden Champion proving the acquisition that 
most people expected it to be. I may have more to say respect- 
ing it next autumn, when its good or bad qualities will have 
been more fully proyen to me.—A. Kerr. 


BROCCOLI FOR WINTER USE. 


THouaH much has been said showing the wreck of our winter 
and spring vegetables, very little can be done as a remedy 
against such severe weather. 

Having found Snow’s Superb Winter White Broccoli very 
useful, I feel it may interest some of the readers of this Journal 
to say a word in its favour. Early in December I had heads 
of this variety just turning-in. These plants I carefully took 
up with good roots and planted them very closely in a cold 
frame. On the first night of the severe frost I took up all the 
stock I had, including those that showed no signs of flowering, 
and consigned them to the same quarters, and my doing so 
enabled me to supply the table on an average of three times 
a-week until the 14th of February, on which day I cut my last 
dish. Though this is a very simple plan, it will amply repay 
anyone for his trouble in lifting and transplanting. I usually 
make two sowings—on the Ist of May, and about three weeks 
later; by doing this they succeed each other. 

I quite agree with Mr. Gardiner on the importance of pro- 
tecting frozen plants from the adverse influence of bright sun- 
shine, as to my surprise, on the 25th of December I found my 


March 80, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 229 


Broccoli frozen, though protected by mats and Braken. It never 
had light for some considerable time, except while I was cut- 
ting, and not one head was injured. Air must be given on all 
favourable opportunities, and decayed leaves removed, for if 
these are allowed to remain they will smell very badly. 

The minimum registered here on December 25th, was 20° of 
frost, and on the 31st, 22° of frost. 

Veitch’s Borecole I find very hardy, dwarf, and thickly 
studded with sprouts; very tender and sweet when cooked, and 
most useful now.—Wiui1am Moorman. 


PLANTS FOR TABLE DECORATION. 


Havine to provide largely for table decoration during the 
year, I send a few results of my observations. Sire 

I arrange to have as small a fire or fires as possible in what- 
ever rooms may require decorating, a strong dry heat beimg as 
prejudicial to the health of the plants as the gas. The gas should 
be kept as low as possible till it is really required. Both of these 
points, though seemingly simple matters, are, nevertheless, of 
the utmost importance. 

The rooms here in which plants and flowers are used, pos- 
sess the advantage of having a door at each end. They are 
also lofty, and lighted from above, with the exception of the 
dining-room, which, in addition to the chandeliers from the 
ceiling, has gas at each end. The doors at the ends are a very 
great help to ventilation, though they must be so managed as not 
to cause a cold draught, a strong cold draught being very injurious 
to plants and fiowers. This is a chief cause of plants suffering 
in long narrow corridors, lobbies, and passages, a draught being 
very trying even to hardier subjects. ' 

My arrangement of plants on the dinner-table is very simple, 
though it is altered occasionally. I generally have whatever 
plants and flowers I purpose using placed in a single line 
down the middle of the table, usually having a large handsome 
epergne, when filled standing 30 inches high, and consisting of 
the top glass 12 inches across, and three side brackets with 
glasses 6 inches across. Then I have three or four plants on 
each side at regular intervals. For a change, I make a double 
row. Both ways are very effective, commencing with the tallest 
plants nearest the centre. Plants are also used for the side- 
‘boards, 

I give the preference to plants being used rather than cut 
blooms ; finding that with a little extra care and labour the in- 
jurious effects of gas, fire, and the change of air are reduced to a 
minimum. 

Thave all the plants taken from the rooms every night, or early 
in the morning, according to the time of the company leaving. 
They are removed to a conservatory adjoining the house and 
gently syringed. Any plants with soft flower stems and heavy 
tops, as Hyacinths, Cyclamens, &c., are placed on their sides 
while syringing them, and a gentle shake given them to take the 
weight of the water away. 

The stakes or sticks I generally take out so as to make the 
plants appear as natural as possible, and I keep them shaded 
from bright sun for a few days. The result is, that during the 
Jast three years, though I have tried many different subjects, the 
only one that suffered was a fine plant of Gloxinia Sir Hugo, 
which I had to turn out of the pot in order to reduce the ball so 
as to make it fi ta certain vase. Attaching, as I do, the greatest 
importance to keeping the sides of the pots covered, I make use 
of vases or wine-coolers, placing a good layer of damp moss at 
the bottom, and where practicable round the sides, and covering 
the surface of the soil either with moss or damp white sand. I 
frequently have to turn plants out of their pots, and yet with the 
exception of that Gloxinia, they do not appear to suffere When 
paper covers are used I place a layer of moss on the surface, 
finishing-off with white sand. 

T am aware of the additional time and labour my mode involves, 
but it being my employer’s wish to make a good display of plants 
and flowers, I pursue this object with spirit, and there is the 
satisfaction of knowing I have done my best. 

I will begin my list of plants with what I used for parties the 
week ending February 25th. First, there was a Camellia Rubens, 
a neat variety, of good form, and free-flowering; it is in a 
6-inch pot, and about a foot high. This was a gem, and is also 
again in use for the same purpose at the time I am writing, 
March 2nd. Earlier I useda companion plant of Fimbriata, and 
I certainly cannot see that the rooms haye had any effect on 
them. I had Acacia Drummondi, 2 feet high, a very suitable 
plant for decorating, standing well; Epacris candidissima, a 
splendid flower, as also E. hyacinthiflora; E. Salmonea, smaller 


but good; and Epacris Model, true to its name. The last-named 
is a gem, the colour being very striking by gaslight; it has algo 
been in use to-day. As I before remarked, the sun myst he 
kept from them, otherwise a very sunny day, a8 WaS the case 
on February 25th, will undoubtedly spoil them. Hyacinths— 
Princess Frederick William, a noble white; Lord Raglan, a 
lavender, a fine grower; and Le Prophéte, @ splendid shade of 
red, all did well and are good yet. Erica hyemalis and Wil- 
moreana I use with good effect. One plant of Erica hyemalis 
has been used for the same purpose for five weeks with changing, 
and was turned out of the pot once, and yet is as fresh as ever. 
Prunus sinensis, a fine symmetrical plant, 2 feet high, a mass of 
bloom, is, so far as I can judge, no worse than it would have been 
had it not been taken out of the conservatory. Cyclamen persi- 
cum rubrum is as good a plant as can be used. 

The next plants which will be ready for use are the Cinerarias, 
of which I like the named varieties best, as they are scarcely so 
coarse-growing as seedlings, though seedlings, if they are good, are 
not to be despised. I have at this season used Dracena Cooperi 
and Isolepis gracilis, also Primulas. I intend trying Calceolarias 
when ready, but I am afraid they will not answer. Lily of the 
Valley grown in moderate heat makes one of the best of plants. 
It will come in very shortly. A very sweet though simple plant 
for variety is the wild blue and white Violet. I have some in 
bloom which came from the south last spring, and they are now 
in use for the drawing-room. Deutzia gracilisis good for an oc- 
casional night, but if used longer the flowers drop. Roses coming 
in flower in April are good; I have tried them before that time, 
but they do not stand so well. Fuchsias are not to be depended 
on more than a night. Farfugium grande is always good when 
not grown in much heat. Lobelia speciosa is always good. 
French and Fancy Pelargoniums in small pots are good. The 
same character is deserved by the Ivy-leaved Geranium, and the 
variegated one called L’Elégente. Selaginella denticulata 
and densa, as well as a newer kind Poulterii, make beautiful 
plants. Of Ferns, Adiantum cuneatum, Pteris serrulata, and 
Asplenium bifidum make good plants when they are at rest in 
August or September. The dwarf Chrysanthemums, where they 
can be arranged, are very fine and last a long time. About 
the last I shall now speak of is Poinsettia pulcherrima. This, 
grown for a few weeks in a cool conservatory, does not suffer by 
being used for table work. 

The above list, though not complete, gives a variety of plants 
that may be grown and used for dinner-table or house decorating, 
and what I have named I have tried here with success. 

Of cut flowers, of which I use as few as possible, Camellias 
stand first. Ihave now in water some which have been in the 
rooms a week. I put a lump of charcoal in the water, or a little 
salt to keep the water sweet, and when I re-arrange the flowers 
I cut off a small portion of the old stem. The Azaleas, Acacias, 
Tulips, and Narcissuses are also good. Narcissus Horsfieldii is 
grand as a large yellow, and Paper White for white. Hyacinths 
in pots when becoming shabby may be cut and trimmed-up, and 
will last for a few days. Deutzia gracilis and the different 
varieties of Epacris and Ericas last well, though it is a pity to 
cut them. Roses cut when about half opened are excellent. 

In summer there is plenty of variety, and therefore I prefer 
using ornamental-foliaged plants or Ferns to flowering sub- 
jects. In the autumn the various Liliums are good and lasting. 
Then come the Chrysanthemums. I have purposely left out 
stove flowers, as I find they usually do not stand room-exposure 
so well as the cooler-house subjects, though I should not omit 
the Linum trigynum, Erarthemum pulchellum, and Euphorbia 
splendens, but even these are generally grown in the conservatory 
at blooming time. At some future period I may send additional 
notes.—STEPHEN CastLE, Bent Hill Gardens, Prestwich. 


CROSS-BREEDING TRICOLOR GERANIUMS. 


I sHovtp like to see communications in your pages respecting the 
desirability of getting, if possible, something like a standard by which 
young beginners would have a chance of success, without having to 
cross-breed over a series of years before they could form for themselves 
an opinion of the relative merits of the different Zonals, and the effect 
they have when crossed with the Variegated kinds. It would be a 
great boon to many, if some of our successful hybridisers would name, 
say two or three of the best Zonals, and a similar number of Varie- 
gated kinds, with which they have been most successful in crossing. 
Then we should be able to form a rule to work from, and it would be 
a great inducement to many to make the attempt when they could 
see that others had been successful by following the rules laid down 
for them. If cross-breeding could be reduced more to a certainty 
than it is at the present time, it would be a source of pleasure to 


230 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 30, 1871. 


many to know that they could be able to raise something new and good, | 
if not superior.—G. H. Kenyon. 


CHINESE PRIMULA CULTURE. 


GENERALLY speaking, this lovely winter-flowering plant is 
not so extensively cultivated as its merits entitle it to be, nor, 
where it is grown, is a sufficient amount of care bestowed upon 
it to bring it to perfection. 

In large establishments, or where the demand for winter 
flowers is great, I would still adhere to the old practice of two 
annual sowings—one early in March, and another at the end of 
April. The first answers the call for flowers at the beginning 
of September, and fills up the gaps created by the summer 
plants ceasing to afford bloom. The plants from this sowing 
may be calculated on as furnishing continuous bloom during 
the dead of winter, while the second sowing forms a good suc- 
cession, besides affording substitutes for plants in the early 
collection killed by damp or other causes. 

While advocating this system as the best to follow, I may 
remark that when the Primula is properly grown there is no 
difficulty, one sowing blooming in profusion for seven months— 
that is to say, frcm September to April successively. In sup- 
port of this assertion I may mention that the majority of our 
plants now in a blaze of flower were staged in like condition 
along with the Chrysanthemums; at the same time the 
demand on them for cut flowers has been enormous. 

Before entering into cultural details I would impress upon 
the intending cultivator the desirability of securing seed from 
&@ nurseryman who can be depended on for supplying seed of a 
good strain, for much yexation is caused when the cultivator 
finds that his summer’s care and labour have been spent on 
trash ; and, if possible, this annoyance:is aggravated on seeing 
a neighbour’s stock of plants with flowers the smallest of 
which might put his best ones to shame. 

As regards sowing, it is important to have the seedlings in 
the rough leaf before the days, and consequently the duration 
of sunshine, become lengthened too much, so that the sooner 
in March that the seeds are sown the better. The soil which 
T have found to answer well for sowing in is a mixture of leaf 
mould and silver sand in about equal parts, with a small pro- 
portion of light, friable loam added, then sifted through a 
fine riddle. Pots of 6 inches in diameter, after being suffi- 
ciently drained, should be filled to the rim with this soil; it 
must then be gently pressed and smoothed, after which the 
seeds may be scattered over the surface, covered lightly, and a 
sprinkling of water given through a fine rose. The pots are 
then staged out of the blaze of the sun, with a piece of glass 
or white paper placed over them to prevent too rapid evapora- 
tion, and to avoid the risk of supplying over-much water while 
germination is going on, for too much water in the early 
stages of growth is apt to render the seedlings soft and sus- 
ceptible to the effects of sunshine, damp, and drought. Damp 
in particular causes great destruction, and should be carefully 
prevented. Tho most suitable temperature is low rather than 
high, say an average of 55° at night and 60° in the day, with, 
of course, air admitted when the weather permits. 

With respect to the general management of the plants, while 
these are in the seed bed water sparingly in the afternoon, 
giving enough water at a time to penetrate beyond the roots, 
but be careful to guard against saturating the soil. When the 
second pair of leaves are well expanded lose no time in potting 
off, using pots of the smallest dimensions, and the same sort 
of compost as that employed for sowing. Transfer the young 
plants in the most careful manner, retaining about their roots 
as much soil as will adhere to them. It is well to plunge the 
pots in shallow boxes among sand. This in a great measure 
defenas the roots against strong heat and drought, while the 
plants grow much more rapidly than when exposed in small 
pots on the open shelf. 

I will now consider the proper place for the plants to occupy. 
Undoubtedly, moderate shade, moisture, and a steady, mild 
flow of fresh air, united, are highly beneficial to rapid growth. 
Practice has fully persuaded me that at this stage the more 
closely one can conform to these principles, especially in the heat 
of summer, the better will bethe plants. The best shade for the 
purpose is a thin whitewash made of quicklime dissolved in 
water along with a few handfuls of common salt. Ihaveput salt 
into the same mixture for whitewashing the back walls of our 
vineries, &c., this spring, and find it most satisfactory. In 
{his case there was no plaster, and many of the stones are 
\ ecayed, and fall away in scales, leaving the wall blotched and ! 


unsightly. The lime and the salt have efiectually prevented 
the progress of the decay, and I believe that a strong dose of 
salt along with hot lime must likewise be very destructive to. 
insects. Let the wash for shading be of the consistency of 
milk, and apply it while the sun is shining. One application 
will last for the season. 


Should the plants prosper, pots of larger size will be soon 


wanted, likewise a change of soil. Use at this potting pots 
3 inches in diameter, and soil consisting only of light, rich, 
fibrous loam, with one-tenth of bone meal, and a small quantity 
of leaf soil. These incorporated in an unsifted state are perfec- 
tion. Pot moderately firmiy, using plenty of crocks. Displace 
the soil from the collar of each plant until the upper roots are 
laid bare at the places where they join the stem. Never mind 
if the plants fall to one side; they must be supported by small 
stakes, one at each side. The plants being again placed up- 
right, with a piece of matting to embrace the stakes, 20 per 
cent. of them will be saved from the ‘ rot.” 

I have now to advise quite the reverse of what I advocated 
early in the spring—namely, water in abundance during 
the summer, afforded both at the roots and by sprinkling 
overhead in the evenings after strong sun heat. This prac- 
tice ought to be steadily followed up throughout the sum- 
mer till the commencement of September, when it must be 
discontinued, and water supplied only when the soil becomes 
dry, and then with the greatest caution not to wet the foliage 
or stems of the plants. As much air as possible must be 
given, in order to harden the plants and enable them to with- 
stand the changes that occur in a conservatory in winter. See 
that all flower stems that start up are removed before the end 
of August. These only stunt the growth; the flowers that 
succeed may be allowed to grow. As the plants advance in 
growth, provide pots two sizes larger until they ultimately oc- 
cupy pots from 6 to 8 inches in diameter. 

With respect to the succession plants, the same routine of 
cultivation ought to be pursued, with this addition—namely, 
that their flowers should be removed constantly as they appear 
until the new year, which will be soon enough to permit flower- 
stems to start, in order to succeed the plants from the first 
sowing.—A. Krrr, Carbet Castle. 


DEATH TO THE WIREWORMS. 


“ We drenched them with a draught so deadly cold, 
It soon congeal’d * * * * * 
The channel! of their blood and froze them dry.” 

“J, B.S. C.” (page 180) closes an interesting article on the 
wireworm with what I believe to be one of the grossest popular 
delusions that beguile the horticultural mind, “the oddest 
remedy ’—viz., ‘‘cramming it to death with luxurious food,” 
an insidious generosity which I tried to exercise in vain. 
Having a piece of newly-broken-up grass land much infested 
with wireworms, I invoked every one’s aid to exterminate or 
diminish this pest, and ‘‘cramming to death” became a part 
of my horticultural education in this wise. Finding no marked 
result from any of the suggested remedies, I conceived the 
idea, being able to submerge the land in question, of drowning 
my enemies, and, to try the experiment on a small scale, first 
collected about two hundred, and kept them in water for two 
days and nights; not one succumbed to this treatment, though 
all were affected by it. They were then transferred to a small 
wooden tub half full of earth, and after allowing them two or 
three days to recover from their cold-water cure, I mixed two 
large handfuls of rape cake with the earth, and planted a 
potato, and the wireworms had peace and luxurious plenty for 
gome six monthg, till Dr. Hogg visited me, and we proceeded 
to examine the results of the repletion theory. The tub was 
inverted, and out came the most fat, golden, and active wire- 
worms that ever worried a crop or a gardener. The potato had 
been attacked in divers places, yet had produced two small 
tubers, and, as we thought somewhat remarkable, these had 
not been touched. After half-an-hour’s absence we returned to 
have another look at our enemies, whom we had left on the 
ground so proyokingly well, and behold they were all dead as 
Julius Cesar; a thermometer at 32° had finished them. My 
conclusion was that rape cake is a delusion (I had tried it pre- 
viously drilled in), and that wireworms cannot stand cold: 
hence we find them in winter in the second spit, and deep 
digging in winter is good, because it exposes them to cold and 
death. 

Potato traps—i.c., slices on pointed sticks, placed about 
4 inches deep, are most useful.» I have constantly taken from 


‘ 


March 30, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


231 


twenty to thirty worms from one trap, and in this way destroyed 
hundreds weekly. I know of nothing so fatal to them as 
plenty of these traps and a strong thumb nail.—C. C. E. 

P.S.—Many may be caught feeding on the roots of the com- 
mon Dandelion. 


HOP CULTIVATION FOR ORNAMENT AND USE. 
No. 3. 

Insgeots and Digeases.—No plant with which I am ac- 
quainted so often falls a prey to the attacks of enemies as the 
Hop, for frequently the set has scarcely been put in the ground 
ere the wireworms find it out, and injure if not killit. Asa 
preventive, a Potato is often cut in two, placed in the ground 
near the set, and examined frequently for the larve, which 
adhere to it in preference to the Hop. 

A more formidable enemy attacks the plant when its shoots 
are emerging from the ground; it is the Flea, or jumper beetle, 
which, by eating into the young leaves and shoots, does much 
harm. Some growers endeavour to catch it, by using acommon 
glass bottle with a funnel in it, and sweeping the fleas from the 
plant with a hand brush or a fowl’s wing. They thus catch a 
large number, as the insects, when once in, cannot easily escape 
from the bottle. Making the ground fine round the hill also 
deprives them of the shelter of the rough lumps, and when the 
plant has fairly made a start up the poles, it is usually safe. 

A worse enemy comes next—the Aphis, or fly, which has on 
many occasions entirely destroyed every prospect of a crop. 
This makes its appearance, more or less, every year, usually 
from the middle to the end of May. It begins on the under 
side of the young leaves near the top of the plant, and follows 
up the growth as it is made, sucking the juices out of the 
foliage and stem, and leaving young in the shape of ‘‘ lice” or 
“‘ nits,” as they are called, beneath every leaf, their excrements 
creating that blackness which is often called blight. Honey- 
dew is also created by the same means. The plant, if vigorous, 
will for a time struggle against the attack, and if the weather 
be dull it will outlive it, but if a dry, hot, sunny period set in, 
then comes a trying time. The plant very often seems to be- 
come scorched, further hopes of a crop being then out of the 
question, and, on the other hand, it sometimes recovers in a 
remarkable manner, and a fair crop is the result. This evil 
was one which until recently was supposed to be beyond the 
control of the grower; but the exertions of a few planters in 
Kent have certainly given a stimulus to others, and the means 
adopted to counteract this formidable foe deserve to be noticed 
by all gardeners who have green fly to contend with. 

It is unnecessary to describe in a gardening paper the mis- 
ehief which aphides are capable of inflicting; Peach walls as 
well as Hop plantations too often experience their destructive 
powers. The limited area of the Peach wall often enables the 
grower to devote the necessary attention towards arresting the 
progress of the evil, but a hundred acres of Hops are more difii- 
eult to manage; nevertheless, of late years the attempt has 
been made, and the crop in many instances has been saved. 

Before entering into the details of the mode of cure, I will 
state the opinion of Hop-growers regarding this persistent 
enemy, which in some respects differs considerably from the 
aphis, so troublesome to the gardener—the Hop-grower affirms 
that however severe the blight of aphis may have been one 
season, the plant is rarely, if ever, attacked in the same way in 
the next year. This is certainly not the case with the Peach 
tree, which is often persecuted to death; but I am not sure 
whether the Hop-grower’s once-passive treatment of his plants 
did not tend more to prevent the recurrence of the evil in 
the following year than the activity of the gardener. The 
latter, in all probability, goes over his trees several times, 
removing all curled and affected leaves, while the Hop-grower 
let his plants alone; and although the leaves were so blackened, 
shrivelled, and deformed as to scarcely resemble leaves, I be- 
lieve they still fulfilled the office of supplying the root with 
that food which foliage only has the power of giving. The 
Hop plant when in an insect-ridden or diseased state was never 
cut down till much later in the season than it would otherwise 
have been, so that, whatever semblance of leaves there might 
be left, they could do their duty to the last. I therefore par- 
ticularly call the attention of gardeners to this fact, and ask 
them whether they do not too hastily condemn and remove the 
diseased part of a plant before it ought to be taken off, especially 
in the case of various exotics, thus weakening the plant, and 
xendering it likely to be attacked again. 

The day, however, of allowing the fly to run its course has 


passed by, and expensive and energetic remedial measures 
are now adopted by the bulk of growers where necessary; 
neither must Hop-growers be harshly censured for not having 
done so sooner, for peculiar features in the Hop trade deterred 
them. The buyers of Hopsimposed certain rules which checked 
experiment ; indeed they may be said to have tyrannised over 
the grower, and some years ago a gentleman who, in order to 
counteract the effects of threatened mildew, had the temerity 
to break through the laws which that body thought fit to im- 
pose, found himself mulcted in several thousands of pounds by 
a lawsuit which followed the sale of his crop. Fortunately the 
light that was thrown on the matter at the time, and since, has 
partly removed the oppression of which the grower had just 
cause to complain, and he can now use what remedy he likes 
to prevent the scourge of aphides, instead of being obliged, as 
he formerly was, to trust solely to that most useful natural one, 
the Fly Golding, or Ladybird as it is sometimes called, which 
is found in Kentin much greater numbers than elsewhere; and 
being the Hop-grower’s especial friend, it is, like the favoured 
birds or animals of some eastern countries, never killed on any 
account by him or his family. I fear the same consideration 
is not shown them by housewives, whose window-frames, &c., 
are often lined with them in autumn. Their utility in destroy- 
ing the fly is unquestionable, and the abundance or otherwise 
of fly goldings in spring is often taken as a token of the crop ; 
but there have been seasons when the severity of the attack of 
aphis was beyond the power of the ladybird to combat, and a 
failure, or next to total failure, was the result. Several years 
might be mentioned as being more fraught with blight than 
others, and there have been seasons when the Hop plant has 
recovered from the attack, and a moderate crop followed almost 
unexpectedly ; yet unless this change takes place by the 20th 
of July it is thought too late to do any good that season. The 
period alluded to is the turning point, as it is called. 

Before any attempt was made on the part of the Hop-growers 
to prevent the ravages of the aphis, attention had been drawn 
to another evil of equal extent, and one for which, unfortu-. 
nately, there did not seem to be any natural antidote like the 
ladybird or fly golding; this was the Wildew, or what in local 
phrase is called the mould. This enemy does not attack the 
Hop till much later in the season, when the plant begins to 
show flower, or burr, when mildew is suddenly perceived. Every 
plant, healthy and vigorous as well as weak, is alike attacked ; 
and as it attacks the Hop itself, and more especially the stalk 
which supports it, the growth of the crop is checked, and in- 
stead of swelling, as it otherwise would have done, it attains 
no more than one-fourth of its size, being often not worth pick- 
ing. The mould on Hops and the mildew on the Vine are re- 
markably alike, only the Vine mildew is more under the com- 
mand of the grower. The severe losses caused by the Hop 
mildew, some grounds being entirely useless year after year, 
led to experiments with sulphur, but in too many cases when it 
was first applied it was used too late to be of service, and the 
outery raised by the Hop-merchants prevented many from 
employing it. At last some spirited individuals called public 
attention to it, and challenged those who asserted it was in- 
jurious to Hops for brewing purposes to prove their views. 
The lawsuit above alluded to, although unfortunate to the 
party engaged in it, enlightened the public on the matter, and 
experiments with sulphur became common. It soon became 
evident that its influence in arresting the progress of the mould 
was so important, that its use is now general. While all this 
was going on, the attacks from the aphis were as numerous ag 
ever, and it was found that the dusting with sulphur for the 
mildew was of no avail in arresting the progress of the fly; 
on the contrary, many affirm that the fly thrives and fattens 
amongst the sulphur. Here, then, is another pill for our gar- 
dening friends to digest, and the question arises, Are we justi- 
fied in mixing sulphur with anything that is intended to kill 
green fly? Does the sulphur neutralise the effects? However 
this may be in the Hop garden, it is thoughi the best practice 
to destroy the fly first, and then apply the sulphur.—J. Rozson. 


Macniricent RaopopENDRoN.—In the centre of the great con- 
servatory of the Royal Horticultural Society there stands at this 
moment what is probably the most magnificent floral object that has 
eyer been beheld in Europe. This consists of a plant, or we should 
rather call it a tree, for it is upwards of 20 feet high, of the old 
Rhododendron arboreum which is now covered with innumerable 
trusses of deep blood red flowers, realising all that the late Dr. 
Wallich ever wrote of the glorious effect produced by it on the northern 
slopes of the Himalaya, where vast tracts are entirely covered with 


232 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 30, 1871. 


it. The specimen in the conservatory, which is daily thronged by 
admirers, is now in its very highest beauty. 


GARDEN DRILLS. 


We do not remember a single garden crop that cannot be 
better cultivated if sown in rows thanif sown broadcast. Rows 
allow the hoe to be more efiectively used, and to have gutters 
between them for the application of liquid manures, a mode of 
manuring not nearly so well appreciated as it deserves. 


For large extents of ground a wheeled drill, on the same 
principle as the agricultural drill, 
has been invented, but delivering | 
only one row at a time. 

For smaller beds, and for small 
seeds only, a soda-water bottle | 
with a quill through a cork was } 
devised. 

Now we have one patented and 
on sale under the name of the 
** Sidney Seed-sower.”’ We thought 
that this was in memory of Alger- ee Ss SS 
non Sidney, who was for levelling z = 
all things in the State, but we are = 
better pleased to find that it isa 
ribute to the inventor’s wife, who, 
way is another instance justifying 
the Persian monarch’s invariable 
query, ‘‘ What woman has had to 
do with this?” 

This neat little implement is in- 
tended to obviate ‘‘ the difficulties 
sowers have to spread seeds with 
any regularity, particularly in wet 
or windy weather—it will distribute 
with equal regularity Peas, or the 
very smallest flower seed, in any 
required quantity, either broad- 
cast or in drills or pots.” This is 
effected by the slide being raised we : 
or lowered as desired, which is a very marked and effective 
characteristic. 


we have no doubt, in some 


PRINCESS LOUISE'S WEDDING BOUQUET. 

Ty an old volume now before us we read, ‘‘ Lady Ver, the 
Spring, is come, the nosegay-giver to weddings,” for in those 
days such flowers as Maiden-blushes, Primroses, Pansies, and 
Violets were alone attainable. 

“The bride 
Made holy these, all others lay aside.” 

But in our days of richer floriculture the bridal bouquets are 
of more costly and more rare combinations. Princess Louise’s 
was chiefly of Orchid flowers—Phalenopsis grandiflora, Odon- 
toglossum Alexandr, Odontoglossum pulchellum, Cymbidium 
eburneum, LLycaste Skinneri alba, Calanthe yestita alba—Rho- 
dodendron jasminifloram, Bouvardia longiflora, Adiantum cu- 
neatum, Gleichenia flabellata, white Roses, Gardenias, Orange 
blossoms, and Myrtles. The Orchids were in sprays, as being 


more effective than single flowers. The whole bouquet was 
margined with Honiton lace, white ribbon, and silver tassels. 

The bouquet was furnished and presented by Mr. Charles 
Turner, Slough. 


SYRINGING GRAPES. 


Ir is a long time since I read anything so like a fallacy as 
that put forth on page 211, to the effect that syringing is not 
injurious to the bloom of Grapes, and I shall be much sur- 
prised if a man of such practical experience as Mr. Pearson 
commits himself to the support of Mr. Peach’s assertion. The 
bloom of the Black Alicante Grape is thick and tenacious, and 
not so easily rubbed off as the bloom of some other kinds; but 
nothing is so likely to destroy the bloom of Grapes of any 
kind, or to utterly spoil their appearance, as the continual 
syringing of the Vines, not to speak of scouring the bunches 
‘with a hydronette every day for weeks,’ as any of your 
readers can prove to their complete satisfaction by making 
the experiment. Further, the cleanest and softest water that 
can be procured for daily practical purposes will leave a dirty 
scum over the berries that will in itself make the fruit unpre- 
sentable at table. When a constant scouring of the foliage by 
the syringe is required, something is wrong that such treat- 
ment will not cure. Robust health and splendid crops of fruit 
can be secured without syringing after the bloom has come- 
upon the berries, and such treatment is, therefore, not needful, 
nor to be reeommended.—J. Stueson, Wortley Hall. 


FRENCH HORTICULTURISTS’ RELIEF FUND.. 


TERE can be no doubt that the efforts in this direction have 
received a rude shock by the melancholy events that are now 
taking place in Paris, and yet surely nothing can be more il- 
logical than to hold back the aid contemplated on this account. 
The insurgents of Belleville and Montmartre are not to be con- 
founded with the quiet hardworking horticulturists in the neigh- 
bourhood of Paris. And what, after all, is the principle of 
giving? for some people say, ‘‘ What little thanks have we!’ 
When a vote of thanks to England was proposed in the Assem- 
bly it was shouted down, and some French people look upon 
our gifts as an insult.” Now, I have read that we are to give 
hoping to receive nothing again; and even although gratitude 
may cost the receiver very little and be pleasant to the giver, 
yet we do not give expecting to receive it. May the time never 
come when we in England shall be looking to aid from others. 
But we have, let it be borne in mind, an element in London 
as dangerous and disorderly as that which has revolutionised 
Paris ; and we should think it very hard then, if any outbreak 
of violence took place, that the sins of Whitechapel and Seven 


| Dials should be visited on the quiet gardeners of Isleworth and 


Twickenham. 

Nothing in this matter has been more gratifying to me than 
to see a class which I have always respected for their intelli- 
gence and good conduct—the gardeners of the various private 
establishments throughout the kingdom—coming forward, out 
of their not very large means, to help their brethren of the 
spade in France. Itis the fashion with some to decry them. 
Their conduct in this matter will strengthen the hands of those 
who, like myself, have taken the opposite view.—D., Deal. 


DINNER-TABLE DECORATION. 


I PREFACE my suggestions by observing, that I prefer the 
simple to the elaborate in this art, considering fruit, flowers, 
china, crystal, lamps, and candelabra, as the available and most 
elegant materials (with the exception on a sultry day of a block 
of Wenham-Lake ice, with a little greenery for a centre piece), 
and objecting to the effect of rockwork, tanks of gold fish. 
fountains, or the canal-like appearance produced by laying 
mirrors along a dinner-table. RS. 

We never put the fresh summer fruits on the table; it is 
difficult to find flowers which harmonise agreeably with the 
colour of Strawberries, &c. They are shown to full advantage 
when handed round after the ices, a sprig of ice-plant being 
laid on each dish. : 

For the centre, if high, whether silver or glass, nothing excels 
the beauty of the leaves and long tendrils of Aristolochia Sipho,. 
with or without a wreath of full-blown Roses in a tin circle laid 
flat round the stand. 

The wine-coolers, Minton or Parian vases, or baskets corre- 
sponding, I would fill with full-blown Roses; or edge both the 


March 0, 871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


233 


centre and accompaniments with Fern or Lily of the Valley 
leaves, pinched so as to make them droop downwards, and put 
Roses or other flowers within, or Fachsias in all; or Wild 
Marguerites, Buttercups, and Grasses; or Asters, &c., during 
summer. 

For autumn we use Bignonia radicans for a centre; also 
leaves of large Funkias, Dahlias, Azalea leaves when changing 
tint, variegated Laburnum or Plane, Mountain Ash berries, 
with sprigs of white Holly, and Ivy wreaths either for the 
centre or all. 

The dishes containing dessert should always be garnished 
with something to suit the centre and vases. 

We find pots of Primula, Solanum Capsicastrum, and Cine- 
yaria convenient for variety, but we should gladly use stove 
plants and flowers if we could command such. I only aim, 
however, at giving, from successful experience, a few hints 
which may benefit those, who, like ourselves, require and 
enjoy a great amount of table-decoration yielded by very 
moderate garden establishments, and, perhaps, some other 
correspondents will resume the subject for the advantage of 
the numerous class which it interests.—H. C. 


SOME PREDATORY INSECTS OF OUR 
GARDENS.—No. 5. 


Tue amiable poet Cowper, when describing one of his rambles 
near Olney, takes occasion to refer to an object familiar enough 
to most country folks, little as they may be acquainted with 
the dweller beneath :— 

‘ Hillocks green and soft, 

Raised by the mole, the miner of the soil. 

He, not unlike the great ones of mankind, 

Disfigures earth, and plotting in the dark, 

Toils much to raise a monumental pile 

That may record the mischief he has done.” 
So might it be said, in a measure, of a humbler creature still 
bearing the same name, with an addendum, only he does not 
raise a pile, but casts up slight ridges, or satisfies himself by 
producing such an effect upon the vegetation above, that it is 
obvious some enemy is at work beneath. The elevations he 
causes have been compared by some to those of the field mouse. 

The mole cricket is a species historically interesting, and 
both its structure and habits deserve remark; nor is it, at 
least in this country, sufficiently numerous to cause us any 
very serious damage, though where it does occur it shows no 
want of ability and inclination. In France and other Conti- 
nental countries mole crickets are familiar garden pests, the 
French name, courtilligre, indicating the locality they most 
prefer. Though Wheat fields, and even grass lands, are the 
occasional resort of these insects, the kitchen garden and the 
nursery are their chosen spots. The species, scientifically 
called Gryllotalpa vulgaris, has an abundance of vernacular 
pames. The churr worm, eve churr, fen cricket, and earth 
crab are the principal of these; the last, though owing its 
origin to the singular forelegs of the insect, is scarcely appro- 
priate thereto. About Oxford also, Loudon informs us that it 
is called the ‘‘croaker.” Though tolerably common in some 
counties, it is apparently unknown in others; the southern 
districts of England seem especially exposed to its incursions. 
I have not succeeded in detecting it in the vicinity of the 
metropolis. Its habits would have led one to suppose that it 
would be commoner in the fenny and marshy districts than it 
appears to be usually, but though partial to a swampy wet soil, 
and delighting to frequent the edges of streams, it is by no 
means aquatic, and is easily destroyed by pouring water in its 
hole when this is detected. Abroad they have also tried the 
expedient of burying vessels of water at different distances 
with some slight success. The three years stated to be re- 
quired for it to complete its transformations also tends to 
cause an irregularity in its occurrence, and it is checked by 
various parasites, one in particular, noted by Rennie, a coleop- 
terous insect, which contrives to make its way to the egg nest, 
and commits devastations amongst the embryo mole crickets. 
And if the extraordinary story related by Nérdlinger is authentic, 
another check upon their multiplication might be imagined. 
He states that in a garden some person finding a mole cricket cut 
it clean in half with his spade. Some little while afterwards 
he looked round towards the spot, and to his surprise and dis- 
gust saw the head section had turned to the right about, and 
had commenced devouring the tail half! Remarkable, cer- 
tainly, yet do not reject the tale, worthy reader, since it comes 
from Germany. But if a mole cricket would eat a portion of 
itS own body, it would not, assuredly, be very scrupulous about 


taking a bite out of a relative, especially in the larval state 
and there is no doubt at least that they are not solely vegetable 
feeders in the imago condition, and part of their tunnelling is 
done in the pursuit of underground insects and other root- 
feeders. Gould relates that he fed a mole cricket for a time 
entirely upon ants. 

The anatomy of the mole cricket, when investigated, shows 
that the insect is exactly adapted to the mode of life it leads. 
Unlike crickets and grasshoppers, the insects are unable to leap, 
the structure of the hind legs disqualifying them for exploits of 
this sort. The abdomen is heavy, and serves as a counter- 
poise, which prevents them from taking extensive flights in the 
air, though the wings are broad and delicately reticulated ; in 
fact, they have no particular occasion for wandering far from 
their homes, except a vigorous process of digging and earth- 
ing-up has been set a-going, which would be by no means con- 
genial to them. The first pair of legs serve at once to identify 
the species, even when it isin the hands of atyro. They are 
furnished with very powerful muscles, and are broad and in- 
dented, the claws at the extremity of each being four in 
number, and directed outwards, corresponding to the mode of 
excavating pursued by the mole cricket. The body is also 
suited to a life so largely subterranean. Rennie adds that 
‘« the breast is formed of a thick, hard, horny substance, which 
is further strengthened within by a double framework of strong 
gristle, in front of the extremities of which the shoulder blades 
of the arms are firmly joined: a structure evidently intended 
to prevent the breast from being injured by the powerful action 
of the muscles in digging.” C 

Another remarkable circumstance in the internal economy 
of this creature was first referred to in White’s ‘‘ Selborne,” 
and has thence been often re-copied. From the position and 
form of the digestive system, physiolegists supposed that the 
mole cricket ruminated as some quadrupeds. A description of 
the stomach by Professor Owen leaves the point doubtful. He 
compares the arrangement of that portion of the insect’s 
interior to that of the graminivorous birds. There is a cavity ~ 
(or crop, as it might be called) at one side of the gullet. Be- ~ 
yond this is a canal, which connects it with a small gizzard, 
into the lower part of which there open two pouches of some 
capacity ; but as no one has yet been able to see the internal 
economy of the mole cricket in working order, the uses of the 
different parts thereof remain as conjectural as are the stories 
concerning its luminosity. The first inkling of this peculiar 
property is given by Kirby and Spence, resting upon a rather 
slender foundation. Some farmer of Norwich brings to a Dr. 
Sutton a mole cricket, and tells him that one of his people 
seeing a jack o’lantern pursued it, and knocking it down found 
he had got a mole cricket, as the specimen proved. I believe, 
in different forms, a story of a similar character has been re- 
peated in some natural history periodicals, but I have not seen 
one go circumstantially set forth as to give full conviction on 
this point, though prima facie the thing is possible. The 
vocal powers of the mole cricket cannot be called in question. 
Yet, though I thus speak of the sound, it is nota stridulation 
proceeding from organs in the head of the insect, but results 
from a friction of the wing cases with the hind legs, and it is 
thought that the males of the species are chiefly employed 
thus, being most noisy at the vernal season. The note is low 
and monotonous, and would, no doubt, be variously described 
by different individuals. Not having heard it myself, unfor- 
tunately, I cannot give my testimony, the predominant com- 
parison being to the note of some of the owl species. It is 
during the present month that the larve come nearer to the 
surface, the rapidly advancing temperature reviving them from 
the torpidity in which it is supposed they pass the winter. 
They emerge from the egg during July or August, though 
whether there is a hatch every season is doubtful; probably 
not, if the larval life lasts through two years and some months 
more. The greater injury is done to the gardener by the larve, 
as I conceive, because their destructive powers must exceed 
those of the mole cricket matured, though the latter, through 
its tunnelling operations, may exhibit more markedly traces of 
its subterranean labours. 

A yery decidedly unpleasant insect is the cockroach, which, 
in its Latin name—viz., Blatta orientalis, keeps before our 
notice the fact that it wes originally a foreign visitor, and has 
found our island such agreeable quarters, that its stay is likely 
to be prolonged indefinitely. Strange, indeed, some may 
hastily say, to name this as one of the enemies of the horti- 
culturist, yet corroborative evidence in abundance ceuld be 
produced. Out of doors, as well as in those regions of houses - 


234 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 80, is71. 


and shops where fires are constantly kept up, and fragments of | ensuing anniversary dinner of this Society, and has named 


food are to be picked up by day or night, does the cockroach 
make itself busy, keeping as far as possible out of human ken, 
and evidently also regarding the light of day with a particular 
dislike. It is, perhaps, in Orchid houses that these insects do 
most harm, artfally secreting themselves near the boiler or 
under the pipes, also resorting to corners where flower pots are 
piled up. THqually gatisfied, indeed, are they with the roots 
and leaves of those plants as with the varied provender yielded 
by the kitchen. Mcelntosh suggests that plunging the plant is 
an effectual way of ‘‘ settling” the juveniles of the species, for 
they have an aversion to much water, though by nature, like 
the cricket, inclined to be thirsty, and their powers of swim- 
ming must be put down at a very low figure. Before Orchids 
are packed abroad for exportation into this country, some of 
the female cockroaches take the precaution to visit them, leav- 
ing a memento behind in the shape of certain eggs, which, 
during the voyage, yield an abundant progeny, the result being 
that whole cases are opened and found to be almost worthless 
on arrival. 

I believe, however, that the cockroach does not confine its 
attacks to hothouses. Like the cricket, it migrates occasionally 
to the garden, when ié can gat there—for relaxation and change 
of diet probably! Tuaat cockroaches are not more frequently 
seen in the little plots which we denominate ‘‘ gardens” in the 
vicinity of London, I attribute to the circumstance that so 
many of our kitchens are below the level of the ground, and 
the cockroach is not at all nimble in ascending or descending 
stairs. In certain suburbs of towns where the kitchens are 
built on tke more sensible plan, I have noticed cockroaches 
about the gardens and squares in too great numbers to allow of 
the supposition that they had been dropped from a baker’s 
barrow, or carried on the skirts of some female’s dress. But 
warmth is so congenial to them, that I do not think it at all 
probable they will breed in the open air, and I have not seen 
them roving thus in their preparatory stages. Tho annoyance 
we experience from these insects is increased by the fact that 
all the year round, as I have proved by personal observation, 
they will come abroad, becoming rather inactive in very cold 
weather. The pups, as is usual in the Orthopterous order, 
are to be known by rudimentary wings, but they are not 
quiescent, and eat, drink, and flourish as much as the larvz or 
imagos. The former of these cast their skins five times ere 
they have reached their fall size. The female,asis now pretty 
well known, deposits her eggs in a curious case or pouch, out 
of which the young larve make their way by means of a solvent 
fluid, which dissolves the coating. Some French observers 


state, however, that they have noticed the parent cockroach | 


assisting the young to extricate themselves. I fancy the period 
of emergence is about August—at leastin September or October 


I have noticed many little fellows of diminutive size hurrying | 


about, and now there are a number of larve about half grown 
mingliog with the adult insects, which one always sees about 
in greater or less number. No doubt they live some months 
in the perfect state, and, indeed, it is possible the cockroaches 
of one season Jive on until those of the next have passed 
through their different stages. 

This is one of the insects exposed to continual experiment 
on the part of man, and were if not for the numbers that are 
annually slaughtered by poison or by traps, or the still more 
simple method of crushing with the foot, no doubt they would 
increase so as to become 2 considerable annoyance, even to the 
gardener. Some of the plans for their destruction which 
answer in the kitchen are less available in the Orchid house, 
though the plan of entrapping them there by various recep- 
tacles of sume sweet fluid (one writer recommends beer, or 
warm water with a little ginger or nutmeg—swindling them, in 
fact, with a supposed glass of toddy), will answer in both, and 
once precipitated into this compound, be it what it may, they are 
not likely to get out againif the sides are perpendicular. Access 
to the edge of the vessel must be given; but, says one, not by 
strips of paper, because cockroaches dislike the sound of their 
own footsteps! All I know is that in a closet in my house con- 
taining loose paper, the rustling they make there at certain times 
does not indicate mach alarm at noise of that sort. Amongst 
the various poisons tried are the leaves of the Elder and Poppy, 
plaster of Paris, red wafers, and tolerably efficacious phos- 
phorus peste, and the ‘insecticide’? powders, each having its 
advocates.—J. R, 8. C. 


GARDENERS’ Royan Brenevotent Instivorion.—His Serene 
Highness, the Prince of Teck, has consented to preside at the 


Tuesday, the 20th June, for that purpose. 


TREE-KILLING SOLUTIONS. 


Tur editorial remarks made at page 124, to the effect that 
the cause, or at least the probable cause, of the death of six 
Vines out of thirteen in a vinery arose from the solution with 
which they were dressed being of too strong a nature, will 
derive additional force from the following facts. 

It was the custom of the gardener under whom I served 
some years ago, to apply to his Vines and Peach trees a dress- 
ing formed of water, sulphur, lime, soot, end tobacco liquor, 
boiled together for some time, and then mixed with clay, in 
quantity sufficient to render the whole cf the consistency of 
paint. One year it was made stronger than usual, the early 
vinery getting the first of it, then the late vinery, and the re- 
mainder was used for the Peach trees. Now, as to the effects 
produced, the Vines in the earliest house ‘‘started” without 
causing the least uneasiness as to there being anything wrong, 
owing, perhaps, to the wood being better matured when the 
paint was applied, or to the latter being washed off with the 
syringe before mischief was done. When the time came for 
the Vines in the second house to commence growing, affairs 
looked anything but promising, for although the syringe was 
used without stint, and everything that could be thought of 
was done to induce them to start, a very large proportion of 
the buds remained as they were when painted. Matters were 
still worse in the Peach house, which contained a Royal George 
and a Noblesse Peach and one Nectarine; this and the Royal 
George came in for the worst of it. Excepting two or three 
shoots, the upper half of these two trees was completely 
killed. The Noblesse escaped almost scathless. Very probably 
the reason of the difference of the effects produced on those 
trees growing side by side, was the Royal George producing 
shoots of a grosser nature than the Noblesse did. As a proof 
that the trees were all right otherwise, the Royal George com- 
pletely filled up the trellis during the same season. It need 
scarcely be added that the usual dressing was dispensed with 
the next season. Whether the trees are painted now or not I 
cannot say. but it is very probable that the old proverb holds 
good here, that ‘‘ Once bit, twice shy.”—R, P. B. 


THE PENALTIES OF RASH DEEP TRENCHING. 


Tuar trenching is one of the most important of garden 
operations is well known. No practice has afforded more 
successful returns upon the outlay; no garden is properly ma- 
naged where the practice is not adopted. It brings into action 
the latent powers of the soil. Excellent and indispensable, 
however, as the routine undoubtedly is, if indulged in to excess, 


| like many other good things, it will result in evil and not good. 


But why pipe a tune which every gardener knows by rote? 
Well, not quite everyone, but those who do will be the first to 
tolerata the refrain for the sake of those who are not prac- 
tically acquainted: with the penalties attached to trenching, 
which is sometimes thoughtlessly or incorrectly carried out. 

Not long ago I saw a young gardener breaking up a piece of 
pasture; it was for a Strawberry bed; he worked with a will, 
nerved by the hopefal prospect of having his reward and 
triumph—his hopes were vain. A foot of this soil was excellent, 
the foot beneath was hungry and heavy. The good foot was 
being put down to the bottom; the bad foot was brought en 
masse to the top. Instead of the soil being thus managed, if it 
had been worked 18 inches deep, 5 or 6 inches being dug over 
at the bottom of the trench, with some sound manure added, 
he would have had fine Strawberries, with not much more than 
half the labour he gave in producing failure and disappoint- 
ment. This gardener wasa reader of the Journal, and reckoned 
he was improving on the advice there given. 

Another case more serious than the last. Three years ago 
an amateur erected a large vinery. My advice was solicited as 
to the border-making. The soil was good for about a foot deep. 
Beneath this was a nasty, heavy, hungry loam, approaching to 
clay. I advised this not be touched, but counselled the addition 
of another foot or more of turfy loam, mixing it with the sur- 
face foot of good soil, hich would have produced good Grapes. 
“ But why not trench 2 feet deep?” quoth the amateur, Igave 
the reason, and lent him some Journal evidence confirmatory. 
He gave as his judgment that it was ‘‘gardener’s fuss,’ on 
which I left him to his own resources. The ground was turned 
over, the good foot going to the bottom, with loads of Cabbage 


ene ae 


Mareo 80, 1871, 


Stalks and similar refuse collected from all the cottage gardens 
in the village, the bad soil being brought to the surface. This 
was to show the gardener how to grow Grapes without fuss. 
Tho trenching was finished, and the Vines purchased. Would 
T plant them? No. I would plantoneasasample. I did so, 
pegging 6 or 8 inches of the cane on the surface of the border, 
and covering with 5 or 6 inches of manure. What was the 
result ? Why the roots of the Vines died absolutely. The Vines, 
however, did not quite die, but emitted roots into the surface- 
mulching from the few inches of the canes which were pegeed 
on the surface of the border. This was much as I anticipated. 
Since my refusal to plant the Vines, what was to be done next? 
Tf I would only tell him, my advice should be carried out to the 
letter, at whatever cost. It was my turn now. I had the loamy 
erumbs of the trenched ground taken quite away, and had in 
every particular a good border made. Some of the old Vines 
I planted again, entirely cutting off the old roots, relying on 
the roots emitted from the canes for sustenance, the other 
Vines were thrown away, and new ones bought. The Vines 
are now in 2 fine state. They were quite to my satisfaction 
until I saw the record of the last and best of Mr. Thomson’s 
efforts. The loss resulting from this stupid example of deep 
trenching is, putting it at a ridiculously low computation, at 
least £50, there being nearly a two-years loss of crop from 
fifty Vines, besides the cost of labour. A tangible penalty for 
deep trenching, surely. 

I have yet another instance involving a larger pecuniary 
penalty than this. About fifteen years ago a gentleman bought 
a small estate. A portion of this was to be devoted to garden 
purposes. He persisted, in spite of urgently pressed remon- 
strance, in having it trenched from 2} to 3 feet deep, vainly 
supposing thereby to eclipse his neighbours in the excellence 
of his produce. About a foot of the surface was fairly good 
soil, the rest of a character which would probably have made 
very good bricks. This piece of land was less than an acre 
in extent. The cost of the deep trenching was over £60. This 
expense had been incurred in burying what bit of good soil 
there was, and in bringing to the surface 18 inches to 2 feet of 
soil, sour and hungry in the extreme. When finished the plot 
would have been dear to buy at half the money it cost to trench. 
The first year it would grow nothing; the second ditto. What 
was to be done? Trench it over again was the advice given, 
but of course rejected. It was sound advice, nevertheless, and 
would have been cheap in comparison with years of after-outlay 
and loss of crops. Tons upon tons of lime, soil, manure, &e., 
have since been added. To this day it is far from being good 
garden ground. Had this ground been worked 18 inches deep, 
it would not have cost one-quarter the amount in labour, and 
would have afforded one hundred times the produce. Instead 
of loss it would haye brought profit, and instead of disappoint- 
ment pleasure. I narrate these examples which have come 
under my immediate notice, as warnings of dangers to be 
avoided. They tell their own tale, and teach a lesson which 
may be profitable.—J. W., Lincoln. 


RAISING EARLY PEAS. 


Tue following plan I have practised for fourteen years with- 
out a single failure. 

I make use of a Cucumber frame 6 feet by 4 feet, filling it 
about the middle of February with strips of turf 3 inches wide, 
and cut so that three of them stretch the width of the frame. 
T place the turf grass-side downwards on about a foot thick of 
horse dung, which produces a gentle heat; then with a small 
peg I make for the Peas four rows of holes in each strip 
3 inches wide, the holes being about 1 inch apart the other 
way. When the Peas are sown and the frame is full, I put 
over them an inch deep of soil, and the plants will be fit to 
plant out in a month. 

In planting out I lift off the frame, take out the lengths of 
turf, through which the Peas will have rooted, and place them 
ina barrow. I dig the ground and plant as I go on, sticking 
the Peas the same day. I have known them take to the sticks 
in four days. I have this year eleven rows on a 12-feet border, 
from a frame of the above dimensions.—G. Fox, Knowle Hall, 
near Birmingham. 


Fatan Foncorp Parasire.—We regret to learn that the fine 
specimen of Pandanus odoratissimus in the Botanical Gardens 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND OOTTAGE GARDENER, 


at Glasnevin, near Dublin, has been completely destroyed by 
the attacks of a fungus, in all probability the same that has | 


destroyed the Screw Pine in the Breslau Gardens. The Glas- 
nevin plant was nearly fifty years old.—(Nature.) 


A FEW WORDS ABOUT HOLLYHOCKS. 


Txr Hollyhock is not so generally grown as its decorative 
qualities entitle it tobe. When grown amongst shrubs in situa- 
tions moderately sheltered, few plants produce a finer floral 
display during the autumn months. The great drawback to 
its cultivation is the liability of the plants to get broken with 
the winds; but if secured when 18 inches high to suitable 
stakes, this objection is at once got over. At planting time 
give each plant a few spadefuls of rotten manure, and if possible 
a little fresh soil; press the earth firmly round the plants; and 
if the ground is dry, give a good watering. In due time stake 
each plant, and as the stems advance in growth, secure them 
thereto with strong ties of matting. If the above simple hints 
are attended to, the result in most instances will be satisfactory. 

When Hollyhocks are grown for exhibition, they must have 
2 plot of ground devoted to themselves; let the situation be ag 
sheltered as possible, but never near to anything that would in 
the least obstruct the noonday sun or a free circulation of air. 
To produce spikes such as are seen at some of our horticultural 
shows, requires a rich soil. To secure this, let the ground be 
trenched in autumn, adding, as the work proceeds, a liberal 
supply of good manure. When the trenching is complete, 
give the surface a dressing 2 or 3 inches thick of the best 
manure procureble; the winter rains will wash the best parts 
of it into the soil, and when planting-tirae comes, a slight 
forking is all that is required to make the bed in readiness to 
receive the plants. The plants should not be put out until all 
danger from severe frost is passed, say the end of March or 
beginning of April. Let the plants stand 3 feet apart in the 
lines, and 5 feet from line to line. When finished planting, 
if the ground is moderately dry (which it should be, as if is a 
bad plan to plant when the soil is over-wet), make the surface 
rather firm by giving the whole a gentle treading with the feet. 
Place at once over each plant some Spruce or other evergreen 
branches, as a protection against frost and cutting winds; as 
if they get frozen to any extent, the spikes are never so fine. 
As soon as all danger from frost is past, remove the protection, 
examine each plant, and see thet allare firm in the soil. 

Let only one stem rise from a plant, and nip out all laterals 
as they appear. Never allow the plants to suffer for want of 
water; and as soon as flower buds are formed, mulch the beds 
with rotten manure. I prefer this to giving manure water, as the 
latter, unless applied with judgment, has a tendency to make 
the plants grow by fits and starts, thereby causing irregularity 
in the build of the spikes, a fault which neither length of spike 
nor size of blooms will compensate for. In most instances two 
flower buds will start from the axil of each leaf; nip out the 
smaller of the two; and in any case of crowding, thin to the 
requisite number. During the three weeks preceding the show, 
the spikes must be protected from rain and strong sun. This, 
in the case of the Hollyhock, is not so readily accomplished, 
but itis necessary to the production of clean spikes; and the 
cultivator must not neglect it, as by doing so he will destroy 
his chance of attaining the endin view.—J. H.— (The Gardener.) 


THE PRIZES AT SOUTH KENSINGTON. 


_ARE ORCHIDS INTRINSICALLY BETTER THAN OTHER PLANTS ? 


AxrnovcH I exhibited Jargely at the last meeting of the Royal 
Horticultural Society at Kensington, I did not compete for the 
prizes. I didnot even enter my collections for competiticn, and 
I marked my collections, ‘‘Not for competition.” Nevertheless, 
I was surprised to find my large collection of Hyacinths marked 
“gecond prize.” On passing to the only other large collection of 
this flower, I found them also marked ‘second prize.” Where, 
then, was the ‘first prize?” In this dilemma I appealed to a 
friend who replied, ‘‘Oh! it is quite right, the Orchid is placed 
first, the Hyacinths second, and the Camellias third.” — Now, 
with all my respect for authority, I cannot, after fully weighing 
the matter, perceive the logic of this. How can an Orchid be 
judged against a group of Hyscinths, or the latter against a 
group of Camellias? As well might a bullock be judged against 
a sheep, or the latter against a flock of geese, giving the former 
a first prize on the ground that it was bigger or more costly, or 
that beef was better than mutton. I do not object to receive 
an extra prize, or a special prize, whenever the judges may 
think it deserved, but I do object to a first-class production 


236 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. [ March 30, 1871. 


being labelled second or third prize, because this conveys to | a mere matter of fashion that make some people consider them 
the public the impression that the object is second-rate, or | s0? A, who is a luxurious man, fond of warm climates and 
third-rate. This I apprehend injures rather than promotes | delicate perfumes, says ‘‘ Awkids”’ are the aristocracy of the 
the interest of the exhibitor. Why not in these cases label the | vegetable kingdom, and all other plants are ‘‘cads;” but my 
objects *‘ extra prize,” or ‘‘special prize,” as the case may be? | neighbour Z, who is a bluff stalwart Englishmen, who could 

But are Orchids intrinsically better than other plants? I hardly be tempted to put his head into a hothouse, says the 
have no wish to depreciate those plants. I admit their variety | Rose is the first of flowers. As these are both educated men- 
and beauty, and admire them greatly, and the plant in question | and men of sense, to whom shall we appeal? What I depre- 
was in my judgment worthy of a medal. Bat are they in- | cate is the efforts made to build-up one flower at the expenso 


trinsically better than other plants, or is it their costliness or | of others.—Winu1AM Pavt, Paul's Nurseries, Waltham Cross, N. 


CROFT-EN-REICH APPLE, OR GALLOWAY PIPPIN. 


A Few weeks ago Messrs. Backhouse & Son, of York, sent to | town, since laid out as a grass field, and all the trees cut down. 
the Fruit Committes of the Royal Horticultural Society, an | Irecollect the two old trees on which these Apples grew nearly 
Apple which they called the Galloway Pippin. It was so named | seventy years ago, and then they had the appearance of being 
from having been brought from that province in Scotland. | at least a century old. The fruit is of the shape, and when 
The Apple was so highly ripe much the colour of 
approved of by the Com- an Orange; a well-fla- 
mittee, that it received voured dessert Apple, 
a first-class certificate but its principal quality 
as a cooking Apple. is its keeping, as I have 

The fruit is large, seen the fruit, or rather 
roundish, obscurely an- had them, in perfect 


gular round the basin of ff aN preservation up to the 
te genishy yell ae: No tS Bee 
eolour on the shaded / \ were used here in pre- 
side, and of a palethin / \ ference to every other 
red, eredually blend: i \ Bind of Apple, and open 
ing into e yellow, | . orty years ago they 
on that exposed to the ! became go _ generally 


\ 
sun, strewed with russet {known and appreciated, 
dots, and here and there { that grafts were sent to 
traces of russet. Eye i all parts of Galloway, 
large and open, like that and even to a greater 
of Dumelow’s Seedling, / distance, and there is 
with short depauperated f an increasing demand, 
segments set in a pretty although the old trees 
deep basin, which is un- are long since gone. 
even. Stalk very short, ‘‘TIn the present year 
imbedded in the deep this Apple gained a first- 
eavity, which is smooth. class certificate at Ken- 
Flesh yellowish with a sington, under the name 
greenish tinge and some- Lm of the Galloway Pippin, 
what perfumed, tender, Croft-en-Reich Apple, or Galloway Pippin. so that it may now he 
briskly flavoured. It considered famous. 
cooks admirably and hes a fine flayour. A first-rate kitchen 
Apple, in use till the end of January. 


“The grafts now sent are from trees in my own garden, where 
they have been for more than forty years, and have hardly ever 

Since the fruit was exhibited we have received the following | failed to bear acrop. The trees put out very strong branches, 
from our friend, Rey. William Kingsley, of South Kilvington, | and with me do best as standards. Their greatest fault is 
to whom if was communicated :— liability to canker at the joints. I think the Apple may be 

‘The Croft-en-Reich Pippin grew from time immemorial in | traced to monkish days, the orchard being close to the ruins 
an orchard now called Croft Angry, adjoining the town of Wig- | of the old church and monastery.—J. S., Wigtown.” 


NOTES MADE DURING A TOUR IN IRELAND.—No. 7. 
POWERSCOURT, CO. WICKLOW. 


PowrRscourr—one of the noblest residences of one of Ire- | Driving along the avenue on the ridge of the hills for about 
land’s most noble families, the Karls of Powerscourt, and situ- | a mile we pass some grand clumps of fine old Beeches, catch- 
ated in one of the most charming of Irish counties, Wicklow. | ing glimpses there of the lovely valley of the Dargle, lying far 
The county of Wicklow is very mountainous, and, consequently, | below embosomed in richly verdured woods and meadows 
presents much diversity of character; in many places it is | rising up the slopes of the hills on either side, the view being 
truly noble in its wild grandeur, reminding one very much | closed in by the bleak sterile summits of the North Wicklow 
of good Scottish scenery, only that of Ireland ig far more | mountains, the most conspicuous of which are named respec- 
richly clad in verdant green. Round Powerscourt there are | tively the Great and Little Sugarloaf. Approaching the Castle 
many lovely spots, much frequented by the good folks of Dablin. | we pass remarkably fine Beech trees, and a little on one side a 
Powerscourt is about four miles distant from Bray, a highly- | giant old Ash—a real monarch of the forest, although now 
fashionable, cleanly little town, the Brighton of Dublin, and | somewhat decayed, but still possessed of a good deal of vigour. 
the great resort of the Dublinites, who reach it in about an | It is here cared for, surfaced, and top-dressed like one of Mr. 
hour’s ride by rail. Dunn’s prize Azaleas, and with such care it may last a few 

Setting out from Bray, then, per Irish car, the universal | generations yet. There is something very noble in a grand 
mode of travelling in Ireland, we are soon at the gates of | old patriarch like this, with a trunk about 28 feet in girth and 
Powerscourt. Here we pass between two lines of the loveliest | 90 feet in height. How aged it must be! Quite suddenly we 
of all the Fir tribe, Pinus insignis, so beautifully green, and | have to pull up in front of the Castle—a noble structure of 
graceful Deodars, ranging between 25 feet and 30 feet in height. | hewn granite, having in front a fine, broad, sweeping lawn, 
How very effective these trees are now, and in timo to come | with the view expanding over many rich meadows and green 
how much more so will they be! The gate, surmounted by | woods, with the mountain peaks in the distance. A little way 
the arms of the lords of Powerscourt, is very tasteful, and | further on the left onearrives at the gardens; and here being 
immediately gives one the idea of something grand within, | met by Mr. Dunn, Lord Povwerscourt’s able gardener, one 


March 380, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


of the foremost men in his profession, Mr. McDonald, from the 
Phoenix Park, Mr. France, forester, &c., before inspecting the 
gardens I took a drive out a distance of three miles to see the 
far-famed Powerscourt waterfall, which is situated at the head 
of a deep and well-wooded glen in Powerscourt deer park, and 
iz one of the great sights of the county of Wicklow. 

This splendid waterfall is formed by a mountain stream, 
the Glenislorane, its waters being collected from the sides of 
the adjacent mountains. When in flood the waters pour over 
the tremendous precipice, upwards of 300 feet in height, in 
one unbroken sheet of white foam and spray, sublimely con- 
trasting with the dark overhanging woods and rocks, forming 
one of the grandest sights to be seen in Ireland, or, perhaps, 
in the three kingdoms. The valley through which the river 
flows after the fall is beautifully wooded, ihe steep, almost per- 
pendicular rocks on one side being clothed to their summits 
with many beautiful trees, growing out, it would seem, of 
nothing but the 
solid rock. 

Returning, all 
along the route 
were many single 
specimens, lines, 
and clumps of the 
choicest Conifere, 
which seem to 
have been planted 
with the greatest 
profusion every- 
where about the 
place during the 
last few years, and 
nearly all seem to 
be thriving well. 
How beautifal is 
the appearance of 
Pinus insignis in 
its bright lively 
pea green colour 
in contrast with 
the darker shades ! 
In a very few 
years, if taken care 
of, the trees will 
form a sight of 
themselves worth 
going all the way 
to Ireland to see. 

Essaying now to 
speak of the gar- 
dens proper, where 
the high cultural 
ability of Mr. 
Dunn is fo well 
displayed, I will 
take a hurried run 
through the vari- 
ous ranges of glass 
houses, which ara 
rather extensive, 
and present many 
special features of 
attraction. The collection of stove plants, &c., iy altogether 
splendid, winning as they do for Mr. Dunn many prizes at the 
Dablin exhibitions. Fruit, also, is extremely well attended to. 

But, to particularise a little, I have to notice first a range of 
half-span ho uses, some 160 feet in length, about 14 feet wide, 
and 12 feet high, of new and superior construction. This 
range is in four divisions, No. 1 being devoted to Figs but 
recently planted on a raised bed in the centre, 4} feet wide and 
18 inches deep, the trees trained to a wire trellis along the 
roof. Nothing could be more promising than the appearance 
of these trees. Ona the shelves were numerous small plants, 
grown for the decoration of the conservatory. I noticed here 
a good batch of young Chamerops excelsa and humilis, which 
itis intended to plant out in the pleasure grounds, they being, 
as Mr. Dunn stated, quite hardy here. Division 2 was devoted 
to Melons and Cucumbers on one side, and on the other wag a 
sort of propagating pit. The former seemed to be doing well, 
although the house is far too lofty for such things. In the 
winter this house is used for the forcing of Asparagus, Sea- 


kale, Dwarf Kidney Beans, &c., the bed being heated with | 


The Powerscourt Waterfall. 


hot-water pipes. Along the front shelves were fine lots of 
plants for winter decoration, such as Poinsettias, Euphorbia 
jacquinisflora, Dracenas, Crotons, &e. The third division is a 
plant stove, in which I noticed many fine specimens of fine- 
foliaged plants, Ferns, and Orchids. Amongst the former 
Anthurium cordifolium stood out well, having leaves 84 inches 
by 26 inches; Cyanophyllum magnificum, grown as it ought 
to be from cuttings annually, was very fine, upwards of 7 feet 
in height, and clothed with splendid leaves, 39 inches by 25, to 
the very surface of the pot; Spherogyne cinnamomea, over 
5 feet high, equally perfect and beautiful; Spheropyne Jati- 
folia; a huge plant of Dieffenbachia, picta, 8 feet in height and 
9 feet in breadth ; Alocasia macrorhiza variegata, A. Veitchii, 
Pandanus Veitchii, Pandanus javanicus, nine or ten varieties 
of those now popular plants, Marantas, amongst which Veitchii 
showed up well; Diazella purpurea with its graceful blue 
berries, Caladiums in variety, Nepenthes, Dracenas, snd 
Crotons. Twin- 
ing about the roof 
some of the climb- 
ers looked exceed- 
ingly well, such as 
Hoya imperialis, 
just a mass of 
bloom, Allamanda 
Schottii, A. gran- 
diflora, Vanillas, 
Ipomeas, &c., and 
along the front a 
few good Orchids, 
as Dendrobes, Cy- 
pripediums, and 
Odontoglots. Di- 
vision 4 is another 
plant stove, and 
in this there were. 
likewise many fine 
plants — a noble 
plant of Theo- 
phrasta imperi- 
alis, 9 feet high, 
clothed to the 
ground; Panda- 
nus elegantissi- 
wus, very large; 
Cyeas  revoluta, 
good; Fittonia ar- 
gyroneura, Gym- 
nostachyum Ver- 
schaffelti, Crotons, 
Dracenas, Ma- 
rantas, and a fine 
collection of Ly- 
copods doing well 
in 14-inch pans. 
Cissus discolor, 
hanging in loose 
festoons all over 
the roof, inter- 
mixed with Clero- 
dendron Thom- 
sone, Bougainvil- 
lea, Allamandas, Passiflora princeps, and Stephanotis, looked 
exceedingly pretty. 

Leaving this range we cross over a large, open, gravelled 
yard, where it is intended to have pits for Melons, Cucumbers, 
and bedding plants. Here were placed a great quantity of 
Strawberries for forcing, Keens’ Seedling being the principal 
early sort used. Around this yard are all the usual garden 
offices, beginning with Mr. Dunn’s house, which, with all due 
respect, I say is not wortby of Mr. Dunn (although a bachelor) 
nor of Powerscourt. All the other buildings are very complete, 
and well adapted for their intended purpose; gas and water 
are at command wherever required, affording great convenience 
at all times. This ought to be far more frequently the case 
than we find it, even in the best gardens of this country. 

Passing on I entered the principal range of glass by the back 
of the conservatory, which forms the centre of the range, being 
flanked on either side by two vinerie:—lean-to’s, and haying at 
each end a span-roofed plant house. The conservatory is s 
fine, large, roomy house, 50 feet long by 35 feet, and about 
20 feet high. The roof is in three spans, supported by eight 


238 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 


[ March 80, 1871. 


metal pillars, against which climbers of all kinds are planted, 
and trained up over the roof, from which they hang in graceful 
festoons in great profusion. They are apparently allowed to 
ramble almost at will, although still completely in order, and 
they haye thus a very pleasing effect. Amongst others, Tac- 
sonia Van-Volxemi, Ipomea Leerii, and Mandevilla suaveolens 
were extremely handsome; of Passifloras there wero Belottii, 
ererulea racemosa, amabilis, cardinalis, Colvilli, edulis; also 
Rbynchospermum jasminoides, Tacsonia manicata, ignea, mol- 
lissima, Lapageria rosea, Plumbago capensis, Kennedyas, Rose 
Maréchal Niel, and Bignoniss—eecidedly the best display of 
climbers I have seen. In the centre of the house there is a large 
bed, in which many of the larger plants are growing planted 
out; round this there is the pathway, with shelves against the 
sides. The whole house was replete with blossom and fine gay 
plants. In the centre bed, directly opposite the entrance was a 
very handsome specimen of Dicksonia antarctica, with a 7-feet 
stem and immense spreading fronds. Other permanent occu- 
pants of this bed consisted of some fine Palms, Camellias, 
Oranges, Luculias, and Brugmensias, with smaller flowering 
plants in pots placed aiong the edges of the path, the whole 
surface being covered with a beautiful green carpet of Sela- 
ginella denticulata, which wonderfully freshens up the appear- 
ence of the house. 

On tho right hand and on the left there are two vinories, 
which we pass through at present, and note first the west-end 
plant stove. This is span-roofed, 86 feet by 18, and about 
14 feet high, having a bed in the centre much in the same 
style as the conservatory. Here there wero mavy fine plants, 
with which Mr. Dunn makes such a grand display at the Dublin 
exhibitions, and carries off so many honours. First I noticed 
a perfect Medinilla magnifica, 8 feet high, and as much in 
diameter, which Mr. Dunn stated had in April last 187 of its 
beautiful racemes of rosy flowers upon it at one time—that 
was a sight; Stephanotis floribunda on a balloon-shaped trellis 
6 feet by 4 feet, shown at Dublin last year with 220 trusses of 
flowers upon it; Clerodendron Balfourianum, 6 feet by 4; 
Allamanda Hendersoni, Schottii, and cathartica—fine plants 
on large balloon trellises ; Franciscea calycina msjor, F. eximia, 
Meyenia erecta; Croton angustifolinm pictum and variegatum, 
all very fine, large, show plants, besides many other smaller 
plants interspersed, such as Dracenas, Begonias, Ferns of all 
sorts, and on the side shelves numerous Gardenias, Txoras, 
Epiphyllums, and Gesneras growing for early spring display, 
for which they are in great demand. The rafters, columns, 
and roof were nicely draped with climbers growing and flower- 
ing with great luxuriance, such as Stephanotis, Clerodendron 
Thomsonge, Thunbergia Harrisii, Ipomma Horsfalliw, Passi- 
floras cardinglis, kermesina, and priaceps. Great tufts also of 
Epiphyllum appeared here and there, as if springing out of 
the bare refters; this was worked on a long thin stem of the 
Pereskia, which was scarcely seen, and when seen appeared 
scarcely capable of carrying such a weight. How charming 
this must look at Christmas when in flower! At the warmest 
end of tho house Passiflora quadrangularis was Inxuriating, 
flowering and fruiting freely. This is one of the best edible 
Passifloras. The fruits (Granadillas) are rather prized at 
Powerscourt, although not by the writer. 

Passing on to the extreme end I entered a span-roofed green- 
house corresponding to the stove just noted. Here there were 
fine Acacias, Epacrises, Hricas of sorts, Chorozemas, Aphelexes, 
Phenocoma prolifera, Genetyllis, Pimeleas, Polygalas, and all 
the usual selection of cool greenhouse hardwooded plants, which 
are far too much neglected at the present day in the fashion 
for big, easily grown, leafy plants. Hers also isa fine Arau- 
caria excelsa, a most elegant congervatory trea, likewise A. Can- 
ninghemi; and placed just under tho stage, growing under 
large ball-glasses, were three splendid specimens of that most 
lovely Filmy Fern Tcdea superba, with fine large fronds, show- 
ing that it was thoroughly at home in such a situation. On 
the side shelves were numerous greenhouse plants, fino ex- 
amples of Lilium auratnm, Cordylines, Pleromas, Kalosanths, 
Statices, &c.; and again a profusion of climbers, such as La- 
pagerin rosea, Clianthus Dampieri, Mitraria ecccinea; Passi- 
flora amabilis, P. Neumanni; Kennedya Marryatte, and several 
of the new kinds of Clematis, almost exhausting the whole 
stock of climbing hothouse plants, in which Mr. Duan seems 
well posted up. 

This completes the circuit of the plant houses; and on 
passing on to the terrace in front to look at the range I was 
informed that it is yet unfinished, it being intended to add a 
Peach house 56 feet long to each end, so that when completed 


this will certainly be one of the noblest ranges of glass in Ire- 
land, orcs the management of one of the best of gar- 
deners.—B. 


GARDENERS’ COMPANY. 


From the “ City of London Directory” we have the follow- 
ing particulars respecting this Company :— 

Charters.—This Company was incorporated by the 3rd JamesJ. 
September 18th, 1605: re-incorporated by the 14th James I. 
November Sth, 1616. The bye-laws for their gocd government 
were confirmed by the Lord Chancellor, Lord Treasurer, and 
Chief Justice of the King’s Bench, July 1st, 1606. 

Arms.—The field a landscape, the base variegated with flowers; 
aman proper, vested round the loins with linen argent, digging 
with a spade, all of the first. Crest: on a wreath, a basket of 
fruit all proper. Supporters: two emblematical female figures 
with cornucopia, representing Plenty. Motto: ‘‘In the Sweat 
of Thy Brow shali Thou Eat Thy Bread.” 

Fees Payable.—Upon taking up the freedom; by patrimony 
or servitude, £1 10s.; and by purchase, £1 17s. 6d. 

[This Company has ceased to exist. ] 


REMEMBER SOILS, SITUATIONS, AND 
SEASONS VARY. 

Ler me say a few words on the differences of opinion amongst 
writers to the Journal about the good and bad qualities ci 
bedding-out plants in general. 

One writer praises up the good qualities of the Golden 
Pyrethrum, and says what a valuable plant in the flower garden 
it proved to be with him. This it has proved with me, and it 
was much admired by all who saw it last summer. In the 
following Journal another writer says, ‘‘ Away with it to the 
rubbish heap, he would not grow such rubbish again.” I can 
only say IT intend growing much more of the “ rubbish ” than 
I did last year, the ladies go liked it. 

Some differ in opinion as to the qualities of bedding Gera- 
niums; some condemn one sort, others praise it to the skies. 
In my opinion some sorts do well in one place, and may bea 
failure in another, because the climate is different, or the soil 
too rich, too poor, too dry, or too shallow, and my advice to 
those interested in such things is not to listen always and 
believe for trne what is written, but to give all such bedding 
plants as they may have a feir trial before casting them away 
iv the rubbish heap. Iwas told by a lady, who saw my Py- 
rethrums last summer, then looking so fine and yellow, that 
where she had just been at the sea-side the Pyrethrum was as 
green as grass, thus showing it does not avswer so well near 
the sea as it does farther inland. Much allowance must also 
be made for differences of season. 

In conclusion, let me ask of gardeners snd other writers to 
your valuable paper to give us their advice in future, and show 
how plants about which they write can be grown and managed 
in the best way possible in a garden where there is only 
small quantity of glass, with limited time to look after them. 
It would be very useful to a great many amateurs, and to gar- 
deners like myself.—Rozrr1 Gipp1nas. 


JOTTINGS IN AMERICA. 


AMERICAN agricultural papers are numerous, and mostly 
prosperous. One feature that, marks them peculiarly is the 
amount of attention given to improvements in menial opera- 
tions. Descriptions, often with illustrations, of little contri- 
vances to lighten or soften such Jabours as sifting ashes, 
making fires, cleaning stables, carrying water, &., are among 
the most favourably commented on, and most highly valued. 

This is not surprising, when we think how scarce domestic 
help is here, and how little to be depended upon. Those who 
are hired soon find their way from the position of a servant to 
the state of an independent owner; but, this attained, they are 
obliged still to be servants to themselves. Thus it is that well- 
off farmers, or town-dwelling mechanics and tradesmen, whose 
wages or gains enable them to supply their homes luxurionsly, 
and who do go, ave in most cases obliged to be their own drudger, 
especially if they are out of the way of the influx of emigrauts. 
To this large class every device that will help them through 
their ‘‘chores” is an object. The necessity of doing person- 


ally all the dusty and dirty jobs that so discomfort tender hands 


and tidy clothes, and of doing it without oecupying too much of 
the time that is wanted for other affairs, and without leaving 


March 3), 1871. | 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


239 


damaging marks, is the trial of life which meets those who 
would avoid that greatest trial—the using and managing of 
domestic servants in America. The whole world of American 
house-mistresses has been excited by the accounts given by 
their sisters in California, of the docility and aptness of the 
Chinese who have been crossing the Pacific to San Francisco 
in search of better wages. These Chinamen are reported to do 
washing, ironing, sewing, baking, et id omme, with a neatness 
and quietness that is in strong contrast with the ways of stormy 
uncertain Bridget or clamsy Gretchen. Whether these Chinese 
will make gardeners does not yet appear, but it is likely that 
they will. he negroes do nothing of that kind, but rough 
slow hoeing. They have no taste for tidying up. Litter and 
flauntiness are their states of Sunday perfection. 

Gardeners in America have generally too hard a position to 
be long endured where independent ownership of land is so 
easily attainable. Whoro a gardener can be afforded there are 
horses. The gardener must attend to the stable, and at times 
be coachmen ; between this and the kitchen and the sun he is 
well sweated. ‘he sun brings up rapid weeds, and drinks away 
moisture to a degree most afilicting to 2 gardener. It even 
affects the temper of the parlour, and thus reacts on him; for 
there is naturally far less of that real gentleness and gracious 
benignity among the wealthy of America than among the old 
and true noblesse. The States nowswarm with nouveaux riches, 
who do not lose their push and petulance, when they have built 
up an establishment with some of theiz war-gotten wealth. The 
management of this establishment is usually found too harass- 
ing, and as a resourca, hotel-boarding is tried. This hotel 
system ignores gardening almost altogether, and it is a great 
misfortune that circumstances should have rendered it so popu- 
lar as it is among the monied families of America. It culti- 
vates in-door comfort, convenience, and splendour to a superb 
perfection; but out-door embellishment is nothing but a path, 
and sometimes a shade tree, and a surrounding wild. The eli- 
mate has much to do with this. Both the blazing heat of sum- 
mer, and the piercing cold and deep snow of winter check out- 
door enjoyments during much of the year. All this helps to 
continue, and even aggravate the raw, broken, scattered ap- 
pearance of every road and field, excepting some weil-kopt 
private grounds and public parks—little oiises in a vast desert. 
This littery tumbling appearance of things, and the more or 
less burnt condition of everything that is green in June, and 
often only in June, is more picturesque than pretty, and very 
nncomfortable-looking to one accustomed to value tidiness.— 
PENNSYLYANIA, 


FRUITERERS’ COMPANY. 


Frou the ‘ City of London Directory” we learn the follow- 
ing particulars respecting this Company :— 

Charters.—James I. upon a petition being presented to him, 
granted this Company Letters Patent of Incorporation, January 
9th, 1606, in the third year of his reign. Re-incorporated by 
2ad James II. Jane 19th, 1686, but this was in the next reign 
annulled. Bye-laws for their guidance were allowed by the 
Lord Keeper and Chief Justices, April 7th, 1759. 

Arms.—Azure: on a mount in base vert, the tree of Paradise 
environed with the serpent between Adam and Hive, all proper. 
Motto: ‘' Arbor Vite Christus, Fructus per Fidem Gustamus.”’ 

Fees Payable—Upon taking up the freedom: by patrimony 
or servitude, £4 10s.; by purchase, £7 7s.—Upon admission of 
the livery, £20.—Upon election to the court, £1 11s. 

Charities.—Mr. Badford left £5, the interest to’ be distributed 
to the poor of the Company. 

James Frankland gava by will, the 30th November, 1826, 
£100 in trust, the interest to be given to the poor of the Com- 
pany, on the 25th of January in each year. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Let the Asparagus beds be well forked over if not previously 
done. As soon as completed throw a thin sprinkling of salt 
over them, and dig into the alleys as much raw manure, leaves, 
or weeds as can be spared. This plant feeds more by the 
extreme points of the roots than at the surface. Continue to 
plant out the strongest of the Caulijlowers kept through the 
winter. Those which have been brought on under hand-lights 
will be sufficiently advanced to be benefited by the application 
of liquid manure to keep them in a free-growing state, other- 
Wise we may expect some of them to bution. Take care that 


the slugs do not devour the Horn Caryots; strew over them 
sharp sand, ashes, new sawdust, é&c., once or twice a-week. 
Sow a nice Celery bed for the latest crop. Raise it high, dig it 
deeply, and then spread on it 2 inches in depth of rotten ma- 
nure. On this sow the seeds, previously sorked for three hours 
in tepid water, and cover them with finely-riddled stiff loam to 
a depth equal to the thickness of a halferown. Sow succession 
crops of Peas and Beans ; the Marrows are in the estimation of 
many the best summer Peas, but the sorts mustin a great 
measure depend on the taste of those for whom they are grown. 
Let all Potato planting bo finished by the middle of the month. 
Another sowing of Brussels Sprowls, Savoys, Scotch Kale, and 
Broccoli may be put in about tha middle of the month, like- 
wise a succession of Horn Carrots, Lettuces, and Radishes aa 
soon as the last-sown crop is above ground. Sow a little 
Red Beet, but not much, as the chances are that it will rum 
to seed. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

The disbudding of Peaches and Apricots must be commenced 
forthwith by removing all the foreright wood shoots, and a 
portion of thoge on the lower side of each shoot. Keep a sharp 
look-out for the aphis on the young shoots. After high winds 
fresh-planted trees in the open quarters should be finally looked 
over, and tbe earth pressed firmly around them. As the trees 
advance in age and acquire a full complement of wood and cir- 
cumference according to the space allotted to them, it will be 
found necessary to pursue the system of disbudding with still 
greater severity, in order that the trea may bo maintained in a 
healthy fruit-bearing condition, and not be weakened by crowd- 
ing with too much wood. With this object in view, we must 
encoruage only the young shoots nearest tho base of the fruit- 
bearing shoot, but as the terminal shoot will be necessary for 
the proper maturation of the fruit, is must be closely stopped 
at the last thinning, and any attempt at growth afterwards 
must be carefully removed so ag not to injure the leaves. The 
Strawberries break very slowly this spring. A rigorous winter. 
is always a most serious meddler with the Strawberry beds. I 
have no doubt the impolicy of mowing or close-dressing Straw- 
berries in the autumn will this spring be rendered apparent. 
Those who posgess strong young plants of the Hlton, by re- 
moving them now to a half-shady bank, perhaps on the north 
side of a garden wall on elevated ground, may with a little 
attention secure a good crop in August and September. 


FLOWER GARDEN. 

Commence in earnest with mowing, and cut down closely, 
grass will mow better all the season afterwards. Finish edging 
walks, clip Box edgings. Plant Gladioluses and Ferrarias. 
Plant evergreen shrubs if you are obliged, and if so, take care 
to preserve every fibre carefully. Have great balls of earth 
and holes dug much larger than the ball will fit into, attend 
well to watering, and fix the stakes to prevent the injurious 
effect of the plants being wind-waved. With Auriculas it will 
be necessary as the trusses rise to thin out the pips that are 
too crowded, selecting those where distinguishable which are 
malformed or injured. The plants will be benefited by an 
occasional application of liquid manure, Persevere in stirring 
the surface of beds after watering or heavy rains. Propagate 
Pansies for succession, and fill-up vacancies that occur in the 
beds, as the Pansy frequently dies-off before the grower is 
aware that it is diseased. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Specimen plants, whether for exhibition or not, should hava 
very particular attention from this period forward. Those 
which haye not had their final shift and require it should re- 
ceive a liberal one, using much lumpy charcoal and coarse 
crocks in the bottom, taking care also that the drainage which 
covers the hole is hollow and well protected. Attend very fre- 
quently to trellis climbers, stopping, training, and arranging 
their shoots. Look well after Azaleas for next year’s flowering ; 
use heat liberally to bring their growth forward, and if any 
over-luxuriant shoots arise pinch them direotly. In ghifling 
drain thoroughly ; use chiefly a sharp sandy peat, heath soil, 
and much charcoal of the size of peas. A few of the young 
shoots thinned out from the Pelargoviums should be put out for 
cuttings; these will flower in September and October. Follow 
up successions of Achimenes, and draw out, examine, or repot 
all resting roote, such as Begonias, Erythrinos, Oxalis, Lache- 
naligs, &c. In the mixed greenhouse remove such plants as 
have passed their flowering season, pruning them back and roe- 
turning them to the store pit. Largo plants of Brugmansies 
that have been kept dry and resting through the winter should 


240 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 80, 1871” 


now be pruned, shaken out, and repotted in readiness to be 
turned out of doors in a prepared sheltered situation, where 
they form beautifal objects late in summer and in the autumn 
months. Give such plants as young Boronias, Dracophyllums, 
Pimeleas, Polygalas, Dillwynias, Leschenaultias, Hriostemons, 
&2., a tolerably close corner of the house. Keep them clean, 
and repot them when necessary. Attend closely to stopping 
the young growth as it requires it, but as roots and branches 
act reciprocally, it is nota bad plan to allow delicate plants to 
ramble a little after they are first potted, to encourage the roots 
and have them well established. 


STOVE. 

The plants here are now in vigorous growth, and therefore 
they must be assisted by a lively bottom heat and a brisk grow- 
ing temperature, with plenty of moisture and air, supplying 
weak liquid manure to such plants as require it. Cleroden- 
drons should now be in vigorous growth—at least the first lot, 
and therefore must be assisted, and the younger stock of theee 
plents must also be encouraged. Schubertia graveolens, Alla- 
mandas of all sorts, Gloriosas, Rondeletias, young Ixoras, Dip- 
ladenias, Francisceas, and miny more free-growing plants must 
be encouraged by potting when necessary, and due attention to 
cleanliness. A fresh stock of Gesneras, Gloxinias, and Achi- 
menes must be started. Apply the syringe with caution to all 
Orchids growing on blocks or baskets. Plunge in tepid water 
all such ag require it, to secure proper moisture throughout 
the entire materials in which they are growing. Water well at 
the roots all strong-growing plants of Cyenoches, Mormodes, 
Galeandra, Chysis, &c. All Dendrobiums that want shifting 
must be attended to as soon as they are done flowering, and 
must be grown in very porous materials. When they have 
made 3 or 4 inches of new growth they commence forming new 
roots, and must then be liberally supplied with water both at 
top and bottom, and:set in a warm part of the house. 


PITS AND FRAMES. 

Let all annuals or exotic seedlings be pricked out in good time, 

and watch them closely if in frames or pits for fear of injury 

by snails, &e. This is a good time to make a liberal sowing of 

the German Siocks, China Asters, Balsams, &c., and, in fact, 
annuals in general.—W. Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


AnotHER most brilliant week of bright sunny weather, which | 
will be very beneficial in the cleaning and preparation of the | 


soil, seed sowing, &2. The week’s work has been to a great 
extent a repetition of that of the preceding week, as in sowing 
successions of Peas, Beans, Spinach, Radishes, and Tarnips, 
pricking off seedlings, watering Strawberry pots, potting-off 
and making cuttings, and proceeding with changes in ground- 
work, so ag, if possible, to finish turfing before the end of 
March; therefore, instead of taking the several departments, 
we will maks a few remarks on some things which have come 
prominently under our observation. 

Peas.—We have some intended to be forward growing in the 
orchard house, where, for a short space in front, they will fruit 
on the ground without stakes, and the plants will be cleared 
off as soon as the pods become too old for parlour use. After 
the snow lately noticed, and the smoking with laurel leaves 
that we gave the house, the Peas looked very indifferently for 
a few days, the points hanging their heads, and being half 
inclined to wither. Various were the surmises as to the cause, 
most attributing it to some soot interfering with root action, 
but on examining the roots nothing could look more healthy 
and sound. We attribute the result partly to a frost before the 
snow came, but chiefly t> the smoking with the rcof so closed 
up with the snow. We mention this as a warning that such 
smoking, if dense and strong, should notbe practised where there 
is young and very sensitive growth. Lots of Strawberry plants, 
Wallflowers, Roses, &c., were notin the least affected. In about 
the third day, all traces of any suffering in the case of the Peas 
had whoily disappeared. 

Owing to the Peas just now referred to, we had partly made 
up our mind to do without a transplanted crop, but as those 
sown in the open ground did not grow so quickly as we wished, 
owing to the coldness of the soil, about sixteen days ago we 
sowed a lot on turves, and placed them on a mild hotbed. The 
turf pieces were about a foot long, 2 inches thick, and 3 inches 
wide. Some 2 inches of rotten rough leaf mould were placed 
on the surface of the bed, the turves with a little trench in the 
middle of each placed closely together on the leaf mould, the 


Peas sown thinly in the trench, covered half an inch over the 
turves with rich compost, and watered well with water at about 
150°. The Peas very soon peeped through the turf and elon- 
gated fast, and after having had fall exposure during the day 
for several days, and air at night, they were transferred to a 
well-aired and pulverised south border on the forenoon of the 
25th, and never felt the moving. The roots were hanging out 
all round the turf, clinging to the rough leaf mould, and each 
turf was carefully deposited without breaking a root, with the 
nice warm soil of the surface beneath and around it; when 
the roots were well covered, we watered with warmed water, and 
the common earth was placed over the turf as the planting ras 
finished. The staking was done as the work proceeded, and a 
few laurel twigs stuck in by the sides of the rows, so that all the 
border should be left open without a footmark to unnecessarily 
compress the soil. These details are essential to success. With 
this little trouble we shall be disappointed if we do not gather 
ten days earlier than from similar sorts sown in the open 
ground some time ago. 

We must in candour state that these Peas thus forwarded 
under glass in a frame were red-leaded before sowing, and not 
a single Pea was touched by mouse or rat; bui the same kind 
of Pea treated in the same way and placed in a rather open 
earth pit was considerably disturbed, the Peas being pulled out 
of the turves nnd some nibbled and eaten, though we are not 
sure whether mouse or rat was the transgressor. This is the 
first instance in our experience of red-leaded seeds having been 
meddled with, but having felt so indebted to the system as to 
praise it highly it is only fair that this one instance should be 
recorded. 

It is very difficult to get rid of these mica depredators. Itis 
not uncommon to pick up from six to a dozen flattened large 
mics in a morning, and still the number does not seem to 


| decrease much. We do not like the idea of poisoning, nor yet 


of keeping the little things in tortare for hours in traps. Hence 
our partiality for the old figure-4 trap, as with a slate at the 
bottom and a heavy tile hanging over it, it is either a miss or 
instant death. 

Deep Planting and Deep Potting —We have several times 
alluded to the impropriety of deep planting, even as respects 
hardy trees and shrubs. We examined some little forest trees 
lately that had died, and we traced the death to planting the 
young trees from 3 to 6 inches too deep. Inexperienced 


| planters are almost sure to do so, the plants are so much more 


easily firmed. The collar of the plant—the point whence the 
stem goes one way and the roots another—should only be 
slightly covered; and if earth is added afterwards it should be 
given by degrees, only a littleatatime. The same rule holds 
good as respects planting in beds or frames, or potting in 
general. We haye lately seen a lot of fine plants that owed 
their premature decay to planting their soft succulent stems 
too deeply, as the heat and the damp soil together rotted the 
stems through. Even when matters do not go so far as this, 
many plants are greatly injured from being potted too deeply, 
and when inexperienced lads have to do such work they must 
be looked after, so as not to bury the stem of the plant. We 
have noticed such strong-growing plants as young Searlet Ge- 
raniums fog or damp off merely from haying been too deeply 
otted. 
Ripened and Unripened Cuttings—This is a matter which we 
have intended to allude to for some time, as the kind of cutting 
makes a great difference in the time of the young plants bloom- 
ing—more than is generally imagined. This has prominently 
come under our observation for two orthree years. Previously 
to that, from doing much bedding in the flower garden we had 
a larger space to go over in selecting cuttings, and could cull a 
good many more cuttings from near the top of the plant, where 
they received their due proportion of sun andair. Latterly, 
from the space being less, and the desire to keep the outlines 
of the beds as little broken as possible, and having no reserve 
ground for plants from which cuttings could be taken, we have 
been forced to go over our beds several times and to slip off 
small side shoots as near the base of the plants as possible, so 
that their removal should not be noticed. These little bits 
taken from the shaded parts of the plants strike and grow very 
well, but they will not bloom so early in the cutting boxes as 
those which were taken from nearer the tops of the plants. In 
previous years we could, if we had wished it, have had numbers 
of blooms of Geraniums from boxes where they were struck, 
say, from 1} to 2inches apart. The plants used to show bloom 
pretty freely after Christmas. For two or three years we have 
had scarcely any bloom. We could not find room to pot these 


March 30, 1871. | 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


241 


young plants separately, but even before we thinned out the 
plants in the boxes we had plenty of bloom for cut flowers, &c. 
In a large bank, on a stage, of these boxes of fine-lcoking plants, 
though small in the autumn, very few flowers have as yet 
shown themselves. We find that this habit of late flowering 
makes no difference as respects the free blooming in the beds 
in summer, but it does make a great difference as to obtaining 
bloom from small plants crowded in boxes before they are 
thinned out. To some of us a few handfuls a-week of such 
flowers would be invaluable. 

* Where beds are to be kept as long full and trim as possible, 
there should be a reserve garden for cut flowers, and obtaining 
cuttings for next year’s supply. We know that many are 
forced to imitate our example, and content themselves with 
small shaded side shoots for cuttings. Would they kindly state 
if they have noticed such results as to the early blooming of 
these young plants? When we took cuttings from nearer the tops 
of the plants, and where, of course, they were more indurated 
by sun and air, we have had boxes of these young plants so full 
of bloom after the turn of the year that they might have at 
once been turned out in large pieces, or the box entire into 
ornamental vessels. For two or three years, from depending on 
the lower more shaded cuttings, we have been deprived of early 
bloom so as to cut from them for months before it was safe to 
turn them out of doors. 

We have just had afresh confirmation of this idea. Wa 
found that it would be desirable to have more plants of Madame 
Vaucher white Geranium, and having some old rather straggling 


plants, we cut them down, keeping the points by themselves, | 


then those that could command a leaf, and those that could 
have 2 or 3 inches of bare stem. Ina fortnight the first were 
wellrooted and showing bloom buds, in sixteen days the second 
were rooted and breaking from every Joint, and a few among 
them that had a growing point, but taken from near the base of 
the old plant, grew but showed no signs of flower buds. The 


third bare-stem lot have rooted and broken all over, but we shall | 


not expect them to show bloom for six weeks. All have just 


been potted-off with good roots, many with excellent little | 


balls in less than three weeks from the time of inserting the 
cuttings. 

These cuttings were set on a mild hotbed, about 20 inches 
from the glass, and scarcely ever had any shading. We will 
tell exactly how these cuttings were treated. ‘‘ Doubtless you 
had some of those new earthenware propagating boxes adver- 
tised in our pages?” Not atall. We admire them for their 
simplicity, and would wish our cottager friends had some to 
raise favourite seeds and cuttings. We desire still more that 
they would acquire the habit of using that which lies close to 
them: hence, though we admire pans, boxes, and pots of 
earthenware, on the score of economy we prefer shallow wooden 
boxes, and we hardly dare tell how little they cost when gone 
about in the way so as to cost less than the value of the wood. 
But for striking cuttings quickly, and where they will not stand 
long, nothing comes up to old iron spouting. Iron is fair, 
galvanised iron better, tin better still, but zine is best of 
all. If the spouting is so worn as to have a number of holes 
all through it, all the better, not at all the worse, though 
with such shallow spouting drainage is a matter of little 
moment. Our pieces of spouting, generally a yard in length, 
were of tin or zinc, some 2 inches deep and 3 inches across. 
A pole, the diameter of two of these spouts put together, sawn 
across in pieces about linch wide, and split in the middle, 
makes nice ends for the spouts, with room for extra water to 
escape. Well, in the bottom of these spouts a little rough 
noduled loam and charcoal was scattered, finer sandy ioam 
above, and a little sand on the top, and the cuttings inserted 
about 1} inch apart. Now, there are many simple modes of 
doing anything, but search the world through and you will find 
no really more successful propagating vessel than these old 
troughs. Of all metals zinc is the best. We believe there is 
a beneficial chemical action between the zinc, the soil, the 
water and the roots. Were it not for the first expense we 
would prefer zinc vessels for plants in pots to any other ma- 
terial. Many of our readers we know sigh after costly materials 
and expensive vessels, and then would they not do wonders ! 
Very possibly they would, but we should have greater faith in 
their ultimate abundant success if we saw a better use made of 
the materials, simple though they be, that were close at their 
elbow and ready to be used. We like to see the highest style 
of gardening, with every requisite appliance. We also dearly 
love to see every makeshift made the most of. 

For general matters allow us to commend especially the 


articles of Mr. Keane for several weeks past. It would bea 
pity even to try to spoil them by mere reiteration.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


Kirk Allen, Brampton, Huntingdon.— Catalogue of Geraniums, Cal- 
ceolarias, Verbenas, Fuchsias, &c. 

Charles Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough.— General Spring Cata- 
logue for 1871. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 


*,,* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, &c., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 

also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same 
sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry 
and Bee subjects, if they expect to get. them answered 
promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate 
communications. Also neyer to send more than two or 
three questions at once. 

N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. 


Prizes AT THE RoyaL HorTICULTURAL Society (4 Customer).—Write 
to J. Richards, Esq., Royal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, and 
he will send you a prize list. 

BED oF SuB-TROPICAL Puants (J. D.).—We cannot undertake to plant 
beds, we can only criticise any planting that is proposed. 

LicHENS oN APPLE TREES (C. J. S.).—They indicate there is too much 
moisture about the trees. The soil should be drained, and the trees and 
their branches gradually thinned if too thick. This is the only preven- 
tive. Scraping off the lichens, and then brushing the stems and branches 
with a strong brine of common salt, is a temporary remedy. 


PHALENOPSIS SCHILLERIANA.—That exhibited by Mr. May, gardener at 
Melchet Court, at South Kensington on the 15th inst., which we stated 
had 80 flowers, had on when exhibited 286 fully expanded flowers and 12 
not expanded. 

IrtsH SHAMRocKE (I. W. B.).—The specimen you enclosed is the Wood 
Sorrel, and we incline to the opinion that it is the true Shamrock ; but it 
is disputed. The name Seamar-ogh applies to any three-leafleted plant. 
If you refer to the “ Border Magazine,” i.148, published at Edinburgh in 
September, 1863, you will see a collection of evidence in fayour of the 
opinion that the Wood Sorrel is the Shamrock. 


Porato AppLes (A Constant Reader).—All Potato berries if covered with 
earth change their colour, and acquire more or less that of a tuber. That 
one you had, and the plants from it, are merely the produce of the berry’s 
seeds. 

CoNIFERE FROM SEEDS.—‘I have sown for the last three or four years 
a few pans of Thuja orientalis, and put them into the frame, and haya 
reared numbers with the greatest ease, which also bear transplanting, and 
grow in any soil as well as the commonest weed. Aneighbourhas raised 
Cedars in the same way, the seeds of which seem not so prolific, though 
we each picked our own seeds. My success has led me to seek Thujopsis 
and other seeds, but in yain. Can ‘A.B. C. help me ?—VicaRk.” 


Tra Roses HAVING BuinD SHoorts (EZ. C.).—Tea Roses haying blind 
shoots should have all laterals well shortened back to twe or three eyes, 
all weak shoots entirely removed, and have a liberal top-dressing, if in 
large pots, or be repotted into rich soil if the pots are small. Malt dust, 
bones, and horse droppings form a good top-dressing if mixed with leaf 
soil. Myosotis dissitiflora is the earliest of the Forget-me-nots for spring 
blooming. The young shoots are apt to come pink at first, especially if 
the soil is too light or sandy. A little well-decayed manure will help to 
invigorate the plants. 


PeacH PruNING (Slay Neb).—The best system of pruning Peach trees 
is that of the Rey. T. C. Bréhaut, as given in his work, ‘‘ The Modern 
Peach Pruner” It may behad by post from our office for 3s. 8d. - It treats 
of long and close pruning. The long-pruning system is only available 
where large spaces are to be covered; and for small spaces, low walls, and 
trellises, the short system is best, and is generally most suitable for an 
amateur. 


WorsTED ON GOOSEBERRY TREES (Idem).—The black worsted to scare 
birds is easily placed on the bushes; all thatis necessary is to take it from 
branch to branch, crossing it so as to form apparent meshes about 
2inches wide. The birds are more effectually scared by it than by any- 
thing we know. 

SroppInc PELARGONIUMS FOR JUNE EXHIBITION (Shooters Hill).—The 
plants should haye their final stopping at once, or not later than the first 
week of April. 


Bev or VERBENAS (M.S. B.).—We would stir the ground between the 
plants lightly, and then give a top-dressing of light rich soil. The worst 
of these plants surviving the winter is that they grow weakly, and their 
flowers are small and of short duration. You will see by bedding-out 
time whether they are likely to do any good. If they thrive well, mulch 
with equal parts of well-decayed manure and loam, and water freely in 
dry weather. 

GeRANiIuM Leaves (Inquirer).—The leaves sent appear to have been 
punctured by some insect, but what we are unable to say. It is very 
common this year, and we think it mainly arises from a cold moist at- 
mosphere, and too rich and wet soil. Afford more warmth and admit an 
abundance of air, watering carefully. 

Roses Frostep (G. F., Suffolk).—The Roses cut_down by the frost to 
the mulching, we would prune to the live parts, and those that are only 
mottled prune in the usual way. 


242 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 80, 1871. 


ANTs IN A CucUMBER HovsE (G. S. H.).—They are very troublesome 
andinjurious. Syringe them and their haunts with a solution of Clarke’s 
compound, 3 ozs. to the gallon, or you may poison them by feeding them 
for a few days on honey, and then mixing arsenic with the honey in equal 
proportions. 


BIGNONIA JASMINOIDES NoT FLOWERING (A Subscriber).—We can only 
attribute the non-flowering to the plants not being trained sufficiently 
near the glass, or to want of air and light. You do not state any particu- 
lars, and therefore we cannot advise. 


EVERGREEN SHRUBS FoR A Lawn (WU. G.).—There are few flowering 
evergreen shrubs suitable for a lawn—Arbutus Unedo and its variety 
rubra, Berberis Darwinii, Double Furze, and Laurustinus. Grown for 
their foliage, the following are beautiful:—Aralia Sieboldii, Tree Box, 
Portugal Laurel, Nex Hodginsi, I. maderensis, I. altaclarensis, I. Aqui- 
folium pendula, and gold and silver variegated varieties, Sweet Bay, and 
Yucca recurva. There are Conifers, but you only ask us to name flower- 
ing evergreens, and we know of nothing finer than those named, except 
Rhododendrons and Kalmia latifolia, with Andromeda floribunda, which 
require peat soil. For planting them, the present is the next best time 
to the end of September or beginning of October. 

EVERGREENS FOR BEDS IN WINTER (Idem).—Aucubas of sorts. all very 
fine, Green and Variegated Box, Common and Portugal Laurel, Green 
and Variegated Hollies, Laurustinus in warm situations, Skimmia 
japonica, common Yew, Taxus elegantissima, Thujopsis borealis, Thuja 
aurea, Juniperus Sabina variegata, and Cupressus Lawsoniana. They 
should be procured early in autumn, and: be placed in pots sufficiently 
large to hold the roots without cramping; plunge them in the beds 
deeply enough to cover the pots. In spring remove them, and plunge 
them in an open situation, watering during dry weather in summer. Any 
irregularities should be regulated in spring before the growth com- 
mences. 

PEACH TREE’s DEFECTIVE GRowTH (Idem).—The tree will no doubt 
recover this year if freely syringed in dry weather, and abundantly 
watered in hot, dry periods. If you ware to mulch it with short manure 
it would be an advantage. Disbudding and stopping will need to be 
attended to,and do not allow it to bear more than one fruit to every 
square foot of wall covered. 


CITRUS JAPONICA TREATMENT (A Subscriber).— This, the Otaheite 
Orange, ought now to be repotted, if necessary, in a compost of light 
turfy loam, with one-fourth of decayed manure, and a free admixture of 
sand. Good drainage is requisite. If you could give the plants a mode- 
rate temperature, say 50° to 55° at night, with a moist atmosphere for a 
few weeks after potting, all the better. It is not necessary to remove the 
fruit now ripe; it will fall off, but it may be done. Let the small oval- 
shaped green fruit remain; they will ripen in due time. Now is its 
season of flowering, and probably the#plant will flower shortly. They 
make young wood along with the blossom. Do not overwater, but be 
moderate in that respect, not giving any until the soil becomes dry, then 
enough to show itself at the drainage, and it ought to be given before 
the plants suffer from the want of it. The time to bud Orange trees is 
in summer as soon as the growths are made, usually in June and July. 


GERANIUM LEAVES SPOTTED (A Monthly Reader).—The leaves sent are 
spotted or blistered, partly from want of air, and partly from being kept 
too cold and wet. Afford a temperature of 45° to 50° at night, and admit 
air freely, not watering so long as the soil remains moist. They will 
improve with finer weather. We think the soil rather too rich. The 
“black” on the Myrtles is probably scale. It may be destroyed by 
syringing with 3 ozs. of soft soap, and about ten drops of turpentine to 
the gallon, using the mixture at a temperature of 140°, laying the plants 
on their sides and turning them round, so as to wet every part. The 
“black” may be removed from the leaves with a sponge and the soap 
solution. Oranges and Lemons from seed bear fruit, but not generally 
until they are of considerable age. They are best grafted or inarched. 
We do not know of a dark-leayed plant more suitable for a shady north 
ribbon border than Perilla The Pelargonium leaves sent have been at- 
tacked by green aphis ; fumigate the house with tobacco. 


SULPHERING VINES (St. Brigid),—The best time to apply sulphur to the 
stems of Vines is when they are at rest. It is not advisable to peel the 
loose bark too much at any time. It ought not to be done nov, so as to 
make asingle incision in the wood. At this period we would use no 
tobacco liquid, but make a wash, or rather thin paint, say a pound of 
sulphur and $3 ozs. of soft soap, dissolving the soap, and making the 
sulphur into a stiff paste. If you do not like the colour, add a little clay, 
and apply the paint to every bit of the wood, but not warmer than from 
70° to 80°. 

VINE IN GREENHOUSE (Young Amateur).—We do not think the Black 
Prince Vine in the barrel beneath the greenhouse stage will do much 
good unless you make a border and plant it out. If you cannot make a 
border inside, though we would do so if convenient, you may be able to 
have one outside, and introduce the Vine through an aperture in the 
wall. If you cannot have a border we would move the barrel from 
beneath the stage, and place it where the Vine can be watered, &c. A 
good compost for Vines is four parts of the top 3 inches of a pasture 
where the soilis a good light loam, one part old lime rubbish, one part 
stable manure, half a part half-inch bones, half a part lump charcoal, 
and half a part calcined oyster shells, the whole well mixed. It answers 
well either for a border, for pots or tubs, and for top-dressing. We advise 
you to top-dress the Vine at once, and to see that the drainage is good. 


Prat (Idem).—That used by gardeners is from high ground, brown and 
fibrous, and full of particles of white sand. It is generally covered with 
heath or ling. That from low ground is tormed by gardeners ‘ bog soil.” 
It is to be avoided for all potting purposes, and we fear that the remainder 
of the stack of bog soil will not be of any use for compost, though it 
pied be useful for beds of Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and other American 
plants. 

Frouit TREES FoR SMALL GARDEN (Ignoramus).—We would have pyra- 
mids or bushes if your garden is exposed, and we would plant them in 
borders along the sides of the walks at about 6 feet apart, and 2 feet 
6 inches from the walk edging. Apples on the Paradise stock—Kitchen : 
Lord Suffield, Cox’s Pomona, Dumelow’s Seedling, Gooseberry Apple. 
Dessert: Early Harvest, Cox’s Orango Pippin, Pitmaston Nonpareil. 
Pears on the Quince stock: Bon Chrétien, Beurré Bachelier, Beurré 
Hardy, Beurré d’Amanlis, Beurré Dicl, Bergamotte Esperen, Comte de 
QHamy, Alexandre Lambré, and Marie Louise. Plums: Oullin’s Golden, 


Prince Englebert, Belgian Purple, July Green Gage, Victoria, Early 
Rivers, Orleans, Kirke’s, and Jefferson. Loam is of three kinds—viz., 
1, strong; 2, sandy loam; and 3, loamy sands. Strong loam contains 
about 50 per cent. of clay, and not less than 80, lime 5, and the same of 
humus or vegetable matter, or 5 per cent. of each, and the remainder 
sand and other matters. Sandy loam, contains 20 and not more than 
30 per cent. of clay,and not more of lime or humus than5d per cent., the 
remainder sand and other matters. Loamy sands contain 10 per cent. 
and not more than 20 per cent. of clay, and not more than 5 per cent. of 
lime or humus, the remainder sand and other matters. Loam, as a term 
employed by the gardener, means all soils not peat, bog, sand, or clay. 


MANDEVILLA SUAVEOLENS AND Cobm@A SCANDENS (Idem).—The pots 
or pans containing the seeds we suppose are in a hotbed; continue them 
there until the seedlings show the rough leaf, then pot them off singly in 
8-inch pots in a compost of light fibrous loam two parts, one part leaf 
soil, and one part sandy loam, with a free admixture of silver sand. 
Return them to the hotbed, shading them for a few days until established, 
and alter hardening them off remove them to the greenhouse, and grow 
them in a light, airy position, shifting them into pots a size larger as 
soon as those they are in become filled with roots. You are no doubt 
aware that they are climbers, therefore train them near the glass. 


ALOCASIA METALLICA (J. R. B.).—The Alocasia metallica should haye 
less water in winter, but uot be allowed to become quite dry. We do not 
quite understand the questions about the hothouse, but it would bea 
great advantage to have a bed with bottom heat in one part, and an open 
stage in the other. 


TricoLoR GERANIuMS (H. G.).—Write to J. Richards, Esq., Assistant 
Secretary, Royal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, and tell him 
the information you need about exhibiting. The price a florist would 
give depends entirely on the novelty and excellence of the variety. 


ScALE ON Pear TREE (4. G.).—It is the worst case of scale that has 
come to our notice. The insect is closely allied to the Coccus, andis the 
Pear-tree Oyster Scale (Aspidiotus ostrewformis). Those on the shoots 
enclosed to us are dead, but we would, nevertheless, dress every part of 
the tree with paraflin oil, taking care that it does not touch the swelling 
buds. 

CoNnSTRUCTING A Co~p Pir (A Constant Reader).—Double walls are of 
ereat value for their non-conducting properties. The cavity should be 
not less than 2 inches, and need not exceed 8 inches. It is not necessary 
to tie them together except at the base to the extent of two or three 
courses, and the same at the top. The base avd top should be built solid, 
so as to make the cavity air-tight. It is well to bed the foundation in 
asphalt; boiling coal tar poured on dry sifted coal ashes answers well; 
it answers nearly as well to bed the base for a few courses in cement. 
We like the pits sunk in the ground, not having more than 2} feet of the 
back wall above ground. We have them 3 feet deep in front, and 5 feet 
deep at back, they being sunk 24) feet. The best material for the floor 
is cement and fine gravel brought to the consistency of mortar, and then 
run on a bed of concrete, formed of stones and lime rubbish rammed 
firm. The cement should berun level, and smoothed over so as to form 
a level even surface. The best wood for the lights is sound, well-seasoned, 
red deal. Pitch pine, however, is most excellent, more durable, and, of 
course, more expensive. For pit lights we do not consider large squares 
desirable, as they are more liable to breakage than in a fixed roof; squares 
of 15 inches are quite wide enough, and they may be double that in 
length. They should be glazed lengthwise—that is, the sash-bars 15 inches 
apart, or nearly so. The lap should not exceed a quarter of an inch, nor 
be less than one-eighth of an inch. No putty to be placed in the laps. 
21-oz. 8rds quality sheet is most suitable for pits and frames. 15-oz. is 
too light.) 

CAMELLIAS AFTER FLOWERING (4 Lady in Cheshire)—After flowering 
it is well to place them in a house with a temperature of from 50° to 55° 
atnight, and maintain a moist atmosphere. They will do admirably in a 
vinery not started until the beginning of March; but in an early vinery, 
say one started in February or Januiry, the temperature is too high. 
Ours are shooting strongly in the greenhouse, and we shall not moye 
them until we start a late vinery, removing them to a cooler position as 
soon as the buds show. 


Hxpycurum Treatment (4 2Z. H. C.).—The stalks that flowered last 
year areof no further use, but we should leave them until they turn 
yellow; then cut them away closely. The new shoots from the base are 
those required for future flowering. You may let the seed remain until it 
is ripe. Two parts rich turfy loam, one part leaf soil, old cow dung, or 
well-decomposed manure, with one part sandy peat, and a free admixture 
of sand will grow it well. It requires an abundant supply of water 
when growing and flowering, but at other times requires to be kept dry, 
but not suffering the leaves to flag. 

INTERMEDIATE Stock SowineG (Rathmines).—If sown now in gentle 
heat, forwarded, and planted out in May, it will flower in autumn. It 
may be sown out of doors in an open situation in July, the seedlings 
pricked off about 8 inches apart, when large enough to handle, in good 
rich soil, taking up the plants in autumn, potting singly in small pots, 
and wintering in a cold frame, affording abundance of air, with the pro- 
tection of mats in severe weather. When they are growing freely shift 
them into larger pots, and continue to do so as soon as the roots show at 
the sides, and until the flowers appear. They are fine either for green- 
house or flower-garden decoration early in summer, 


Insnors IN Ducayinc Cow Dune (H. V.).—The yellow grubs are the 
larve of one of the species of two-winged flies belonging to the extensive 
genus Anthomyia, very similar to the common house fly. There was also 
a smaller grub or larva of one of the midges of the genus Sciara, or 
Molobrus. The long thin ones are a species of worm (Vibrio), and there 
was a small white spring-tailed insect (Podura) inthe box. None of these 
are materially injurious to vegetables, living ordinarily in decaying vege- 
table matter.—I. O. W. 

Names oF Puants (W. S. Lee).—A leaf of Salvia argentea. (J. H. B.). 
—Dana racemosa, more commonly known as Ruscusracemosus. (J. B.). 
—Your Alternanthera amona is quite correct. Certainly it will bear 
bedding-out; it is quite an acquisition for small beds, and in what is 
known as “carpet bedding.” (G@. S.)—1, Pulmonaria angustifolia ; 2, Saxi- 
fraga crassifolia; 3, Pellaea hastata; 4, Pteris longifolia; 5, Aspidium 
falcatum; 6, Adiantum «thiopicum. (JV.).—Euonymus europmus, com= 
mon Dogwood. (Z. 4.).—The flower you found in the wood is Erythro- 
nium Dens-canis, Dog’s-tooth Violot. It must have come from somo 


March 380, 1871. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


246. 


garden, being a native of Italy and Hungary. (Edward J. Ensor).—Your 
shrub is the Cornelian Cherry, Cornus mascula. (LZ. B. A. H.).—Libonia 
floribunda. (J. Z.).—Zygopetalum Mackayi. (C. B. G.).—Your plant is 
the Bog Aphodel, Narthecium ossifragum, a plant very closely allied to 
the Rushes. (J. B.).—The Ribbon Grass is Phalaris arundinacea varie- 
gata. The flower is that of Scopolia carniolica. (B. H. W., Bitterne).— 
Triteleia uniflora. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


THE LANCASHIRE MOONEY—BREEDING FOR 
POINTS. 


Tue Journal of a few weeks ago contained a letter from Dr. 
James More upon the Lancashire Mooney fowl, which inci- 
dentally raises a question of very great interest, complaining as 
he does of the judges giving the preference to Spangled cocks, 
which are produced by the crossing of two distinct breeds, the 
true-bred Lancashire bird being inadmissible in the show pen 
on account of his stained deaf ear and darker tail. 

With regard to the disgust experienced by amateurs who may 
purchase prize birds and find afterwards that they are useless 
for pullet-breeding, I have myself had occasion to observe this 
result; and it may serve to point a piece of advice I have often 
given to those newly smitten with our fascinating hobby—viz., 
to acquire some sound knowledge of the matter before spending 
very much money upon it. The contrary course is too often 
followed, and frequently leads speedily to general disgust with 
the fancy itself. The tyro takes the complaint rather badly, 
and forthwith rushes in to buy the best pen of whatever breed 
has tickled his imagination, with the probable result of bitter 
disappointment when he comes to breed from them; for all 
breeders know well that far more depends upon the judicious 
mating of birds than on their intrinsic excellence, and better 
results will be obtained by very mediocre stock mated with 
judgment than are likely to be bred by the best birds in the 
kingdom paired by chance. This is a fruitful cause of suspicion 
quite undeserved. I have known a man buy a noted breeder’s 
‘‘ best pen,” and feel aggrieved because the vendor beat him 
in the chicken classes at next year’s show, averring that he 
‘‘ gould not have sold first-class birds ;” the simple truth being, 
that the judgment of the skilled breeder had enabled him to 
produce better stock with what was left than the other could 
hatch from the very pick of his yard. 

Success in the fancy is not obtained in this way. The breed 
fancied must be carefully studied, and it will be well to study 
it as far as can be some time before any purchase is made. 
Nearly all fanciers are pleased to give valuable information for 
the asking, and it is of no use being shy in asking it. There 
is about many a truly fraternal spirit which makes it a pleasure 
even to ask a favour, and no real amateur need have much fear 
of a rebuff. Some will devote much time and trouble to help- 
ing even total strangers, and there is positively no excuse for 
anyone beginning the pursuit in the total ignorance of all its 
essentials, which many do. By thus learning something about 
a breed in the first place, by securing the aid of some friend 
in the selection, by beginning in a modest way till more expe- 
rience is gained, and, most of all, by careful reflection, obser- 
vation, and study of the birds when obtained, more or less 
success will always be secured, where the rash, or what may be 
called the ‘‘any price” system, will only end in disappoint- 
ment and failure. 

But to return to the Spangled Hamburghs. The facts men- 
tioned by Dr. More are fully stated in every standard poultry 
book, and no amateur need therefore be without the necessary 
information. I think that the system as actually carried out 
was a most foolish one, but it will be interesting to recall 
its origin. Years ago the true-bred and hen-tailed Mooney 
was exhibited, and won the prizes, as the hens frequently do 
still from the richness of their marking; and the change evi- 
dently arose from some genius who had noted its defects in 
the tail and deaf ear, exhibiting as a ‘‘ spec” the product of a 
Pheasant cross. Now it is only needful to put side by side a 
Mooney cock and one of these show birds to see at once why 
the cross hit instanter. Not only the tail and the deaf ear, 
but the breast, and the fine, high-bred-looking head of the new 
bird, are infinitely superior; and it was almost a matter of 
course that the judges should give it the preference, as the two 
breeds are too alike in general characters to show any glaring 
sign of a cross, which could alone prevent the handsomest bird 
from winning. Others soon discovered the secret, and finally 
the Mooney cocks stood no chance, and were virtually discarded. 


T haye stated through other channels that I thought the in- 
genious expedient a clumsy one after all, and that the proper 
course would have been to perfect the Mooney by patience and 
care. By this time it might have been done, but that the 
effect of the actual system pursued has been all bad I cannot 
admit. Much uncertainty still remains, but some approach to 
a composite breed combining the excellencies of both and 
breeding true has by degrees been made; and I know that Mr. 
Beldon, for instance, has now a strain which very often pro- 
duces both cockerels and pullets fit for exhibition. Sooner or 
later this is always the case; and so far as a ‘neatly chiselled 
head” is superior to a coarse one, &c., I do think that while 
time has been wasted over it which might have been saved by 
better procedure, something has still been gained. 

As regards the judges, they have simply given prizes to birds 
whose heads, tails, &c., manifestly presented a higher type or 
standard of beauty with no glaring evidence of a cross. Can it. 
be maintained that they should have done otherwise? I do 
not think it can. Some disappointment is caused to those who 
rush into breeding the birds without first learning how to do it, 
but the result is a better type of bird, which in a very few 
years will breed pure, and I cannot think this resulé an un- 
desirable one. f 

It is in this way many breeds have been perfected and raised. 
That Dorkings owe very much to Cochins and Brahmas is well 
known. Both size and stamina were improved by the cross ;. 
and so long as the product showed no evidence of it I think 
the judges were right in giving prizes to the largest-iramed 
birds, though well knowing at that early time that much of the 
size was then owing to the large eastern breeds. The gain has 
now been perpetuated, and all sign of the cross is long lost. 
An evidently cross-bred bird of course ought not to win, but 
this does not really touch the matter in hand. 

Ti always seems to me important to remember that there is 
no such thing as finality in poultry-breeding. Taste improves, 
and breeds improve with it; and it is a most singular fact that 
judges have only to show their preference for any point, how- 
ever rare, and the skill of the experienced breeder speedily 
produces it. He may perhaps use a cross at starting—oftem 
he does and often not; but he obtains the point somehow, and 
if it is a desirable point the breed is so far raised in value. 
Cochins lately have been bred with decidedly fuller breasts, and 
this is unquestionably an advantage. I should certainly regret 
that any breed should ever become so fixed in character as to. 
leave no room for such modifying process; and I have there- 
fore taken occasion by Dr. More’s interesting letter for a few 
remarks on a process which is little understood by many ama- 
teurs, but which in one breed or another is constantly going 
on in the poultry world.—L. Wricut. 


HANDLING FOWLS AT POULTRY SHOWS. 

“R.D.,” at page 149, raises the pertinent question of hand- 
ling poultry at shows. 

We hold an annual poultry show at Shepherdswell, and, as 
one of the committee, I volunteered last year to pen the birds 
ag they arrived at the show; but one worthy who was entrusted 
with a valuable pen of Game fowls, particularly wished to pen 
his employer’s birds, remarking, ‘‘ It was not everyone who 
knew how to handle a bird,” or something to that effect. Of 
course I very respectfully consented, thinking that by watch- 
ing his manipulation of the birds I might possibly ‘gain a 
wrinkle,” and so the performance commenced by the expert 
thrusting his hand into the hamper, and drawing out the cock 
bird by one leg, and the bird, as soonas clear of the hamper, com- 
menced a series of gyrations, forcibly suggesting to my imagina- 
tion a fractured limb instead of a first prize. However, after 
describing sundry eccentric circles, the bird was safely penned ; 
but I thought if that was the proper way to handle a bird I 
had much to learn, and thinking that perhaps such manipula- 
tion, to be successful, required a good deal of practice, I for 
the time gave up the idea of becoming proficient in it, and fell 
back upon my old-fashioned method. 

I think in taking birds from a hamper, the better plan is to 
span the birds well with both hands by the shoulders or centre 
of the body, keeping the wings closely folded; this effectually 
prevents the birds from struggling, and consequently injuring 
themselves or their plumage. In the case of removing them from 
pens this plan will be found rather more difficult, as the size of 
the opening in the pens is generally too small to admit both arms 
comfortably, but with care I think it might be practised ;- the 
bird should always be held in such 2 manner that the head may 


244 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULI'URE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ March 30, 1871. 


be in the direction in which it is being moved. Nature has 
intended the head always to go first, and in this case I do not 
think it polite to oppose Nature; at all events, the plumage is 
much less likely to suffer displacement by pursuing this method. 
In the case of Brahmas and Cochins, the primary feathers are 
very apt to get temporarily displaced by handling; these should 
always be adjusted as soon as the birds are vlaced in the pen. 

As a rule, I think the less a bird is handled by the legs the 
better ; Ducks certainly never should be. It is a common prac- 
tice to carry Ducks by the head; but I think the persons who do 
so should be performed upon inthe same manner. In the case 
of exhibition birds weighing 8 or 9 lbs. each, it is evidently cruel ; 
a firm hold of the wings at the shoulders with one hand, and the 
abdoraen supported with the other, is much more humane. 

In conclusion, I think it is due to exhibitors that the com- 
mittees of poultry shows should appoint a responsible and 
practical person to pen the birds as they arrive, and also to 
pack them after the show, in which case I believe we should 
hear less of damage done to plumage, which is certainly very 
annoying, and in some cases unwarrantable.—W. J. 


PROTECTING EXHIBITED POULTRY. 


Arter the number of outrages and accidents to poultry, 
Pigeons, and Rabbits in transit, it is high time that some 
means of prevention should be devised. Should things go on 
as at! present, the exhibition interest will be serious]y injured. 
Such occurrences are not only very expensive but extremely 
aggravating. Asa means of reducing their number, I would 
suggest that exhibitors should provide themselves with baskets 
made either of small-meshed wire netting or wickerwork let 
into a morticed hardvood frame, with a door at the top fastened 
by a lock and key. The exhibitor should provide himself with 
two keys to the lock. Two or three days previous to the show 
he should forward one of his keys by post to the secretary— 
they can be sent for a penny stamp—by tying them on a cloth 
label, on the back of which should be written the sender’s 
name, the class, and number. The secretary would on the 
arrival of the cases go round and unlock them, Jeaving the key 
in, and after the exhibition was over and the specimens returned 
to their respective packages, then lock them up and force the 
key through a small hole in the case provided for that purpose ; 
by so doing no one could interfere with the stock. Of course 
when arrived home the exhibitor would unlock the case with 
his other key, and the second one can then be secured. The 
extra trouble to the secretaries of having keys, and the locking 
end unlocking business, will be much better and time-saving 
than the string nuisance, which is very insecure and tedious 


work, especially if there are only two hours to catch the next | 


train after the close of the exhibition. I shall have a case in- 
tended for Rabbits at the Stroud Show, and anyone on appli- 
cation to the Secretary can see it: 

I cannot help giving the Stroud Committee great credit for 
their schedule of the forthcoming show. The prizes for Rab- 
bits, though not so large as at Colchester, are well arranged 
and give every variety a chance. Rabbit fanciers one and all 
should enrol themselves members of the United Kingdom 
Rabbit Club, head office, Collargate, York. By its influence 
we may expect to see a great reaction in this class of domestic 
pets.—Davip P. Goopine, Colchester. 


In reply to Mr. Tonkin’s letter in your Jast number, allow 
me to suggest the use of letter-padlocks for locking exhibition 
thampers. They require no key, and can be obtained through 
ary ironmonger at a trifling cost. The password to unlock 
them could be sent by post to the secretary of a show. This 
would in a great measure prevent the mutilation of birds in 
transit to and from an exhibition; andif each member of a 
committee would undertake the personal supervision of a given 
number of pens during the time the show was open to the 
public, and leave a person of well-known respectability in charge 
during the night, I cannot see how any damage could arise to 
the birds, providing competent persons penned and unpenned 
them. 

If the padlocks above mentioned would not answer, why not 
have the lids of the hampers secured with wire instead of 
string? Isent a cockerel to the Northampton Show, and it 
came back with every feather in its tail broken. Iwas at the 
Show on the first day, and when I left the feathers were perfect. 
I wrote to the Secretary about it, but he assures me it was not 
done at the Show. The lid of the hamper was only slightly 


tied down; and when my man reached the station to bring it 
away a number of porters were round the hamper with the lid 


half opened, and no doubt they helped to do some of the damage. 
—AN ExHIziTor. 


MALAYS—CUPS—PACKAGES. 


Durine the year 1870 Malays were not deemed worthy by 
most committees of a separate class; however, it is gratifying 
to find in this age of improvement, that in the year 1871 they 
are sometimes allowed to compete in the form ofa ‘‘ Sweep- 
stakes.” Northampton kindly set the example; Stroud pur- 
poses, I believe, doing likewise. I trust that every important 
show will henceforth allow Malays to figure in the prize-list; itis 
far preferable to competing with ‘‘Silkies” in the Variety class. 

If committees could possibly arrange that their shows should 
not terminate so late in the week as Friday, I believe the 
entries would be far more numerous. For instance, the late 
Woodbridge Show closed on the Friday night—my Malays 
arrived home on the following Tuesday morning. Being raven- 
ous, they had devoured most of the ticket enclosed in the ham- 
per, announcing the fact that they had won the first prize. I 
have not yet been able to pay the carriage, as the waybill has 
been lost—no wonder, after being so long on their journey; 
perhaps they ate that also. 

If silver cups were abolished, and the money prizes in each 
class made larger, would it not be a step in the right direc- 
tion? When a silver cup is, as is often the case, offered for 
the best pen in the Polish, French fowl, and Variety class, you 
may generally notice that it is awarded to the Polish. Again, 
when there is no separate class for either Polish or French 
fowls, and they have to compete in the Variety class, the 
Polish are mostly victorious. I often wonder that there are 
not more exhibitors of Polands, on the strength of it. 

Allow me also to suggest that a secure way of sending valu- 
able fowls to a show, is to have the lid of the hamper fastened 
with a puzzle padlock, having letters round it, which can only 
be unfastened by knowing the word fixed upon, and which 
could be communicated by letter to the secretary.— A. G. 
Brooke, Rectory, Shrawardine, Salop. 


EGG-EATING HENS. 


I sHouLD recommend ‘G. T.,’’ or anyone else who is troubled 
with hens eating their eggs, to break an egg and dust the con- 
tents nicely with fine Cayenne pepper, afterwards turning the 
egg round so as to get the pepper below the yolk if possible, 
and leave the egg in the offender’s nest. Or, if he catches her 
in the act of eating an egg, let him drive her away quietly and 
place pepper in the remainder of the egg, endeavouring, as 
stated above, to get the pepper underneath. He will very socn 
see her running furiously about with distended beak. If one 
dose is not sufficient, administer another a little stronger; but 
I think once will be enough, for I saw the remedy tried, and 
it turned out to be—A Prrrecr Cure. 

P.S.—Does ‘*G. T.” throw his old shells back to the hens 
when he has eaten the eggs? That is the best way of learning 


hens the bad habit. 


THE POULTRY JUDGING AT WOODBRIDGE. 


I wise to avail myself of your columns to ask the name of the 
judge, who at the recent Exhibition at Woodbridge has rendered 
himself conspicuous by reversing the decisions of many of the tried 
and acknowledged judges in poultry matters? How is it it has not 
appeared in any of the reports, or in the catalogue, as is customary, 
and indeed necessary to the due responsibility of the judge and the 
satisfaction of the exhibitor? Im my own case I should think this 
gentleman's vision must have deceived him, or else my birds must have 
been put in some dark corner, as I sent two pens of Buif Cochins such 
as should have caught the eye of any Cochin judge, as they have never 
failed to arrest attention before in the best company in England. 
Indeed, one pen, containing the Manchester first-prize cock and a large 
beautiful lemon-coloured hen, has taken first prizes at Wolverhampton, 
Northampton, Portsmouth, and numerous other leading exhibitions, 
yet here it was never noticed; and the birds in the other pen were 
winners of first and second prizes. In my Dark Brahma pen I showed 
the first-prize Birmingham pullet, which also took the first prize and 
cup at Wolverhampton, with a splendid Black-breasted cock which 
has never been shown before without gaining a first or second prize. 
This pen does appear to have drawn the attention of this excellent 
judge, as he gave it a high commendation. Now, as a test of this 
gentleman’s judgment, I am prepared to show my Buff Cochins and 
Dark Brahmas against any fancier in the kingdom for £50, to be 
judged by two judges of the highest standing, say three pens of Cochins 


March 30, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


and three pens of Dark Brahmas, each pen to consist of a cock and 
one or two hens, the birds to be bond-fide the property of the com- 
petitor, and any trimming to be a disqualification—James Warts. 

(The names of the Judges were published with our report of the 
Show last week. We have had various complaints on other subjects 
connected with this Show.—Ebs. | 


GAME FOWLS. 


I mosr fully coincide with the opinion of ‘‘ Corxisa Duckwina,” 
as every really good judge of Game fowls must thoroughly despise 
‘“‘the fashionable half-bred Malay exhibition type,’ with their long 
bodies and their drooping whip tails. They are the most spiritless 
‘Game fowls ever bred. 

I think that Manchester and Wolverhampton have quite as good 
birds as Nantwich, though not so many in proportion to the relative 
sizes of the towns.—NEWMAREET. 


OUTRAGES ON PRIZE BIRDS. 


WE sent two pens of Game Bantams to Colchester Show, and 
besides arriving too late for competition, after twenty-seven hours’ 
travelling, they were returned to us in a state which unfits them for 
exhibition for at least six months. The two cocks had somehow got 
to each other and fought to such an extent that one bird had lost 
almost all his head feathers, and a great many from his neck; the 
greater part of his bars and much of his tail were damaged, to say 
nothing of being blinded in one eye. The other bird was damaged, but 
not to so great an extent. They certainly were sent in the same 


hamper, but with a formidable partition between them, which would | 


have defied the attempts of the strongest Malay to break through; but 
having carefully examined the basket we can find not only not a single 


feather in either division, but not the least drop of blood can be found | 


on the canvas, and had these birds fought in the basket, the amount 
of blood they must have lost would have left a trace not easily to be 
overlooked. We have written to Mr. Laver, the Secretary of the Col- 
chester Show, on the subject, and he satisfies us that there were no 
birds which had sustained the least injury to be seen in the whole 
Show. We come, therefore, to this conclusion, that some evil-disposed 
person must have put them together for a combat during some period 
after the birds had left the care of the Exhibition Committee, or that, 
very likely, the porters at the station, where the basket was detained 
during the night of their return, must have thought fit to relieve the 
tediousness of their night-watches by a ‘‘cock fight.” Be the mode of 
injury what it may, it seems very curious that so many birds should have 
been maltreated after this particular Show ; it would lead one to sup- 
pose that a party of scoundrels had waylaid a great many birds for the 
purpose of doing them some injury. If this maltreatment continue 
we shall merely keep our birds at home, for we prefer looking at them 
n good feather.—Buriiincuam & Gutu, Lancashire. 


A Cocutn cock belonging to me at the Whitehaven Show had his 
neck hackles on one side broken off with the nail. The bird had taken 
the second prize. I also exhibited two Cochin hens, which also took 
a second prize ; one of these was spoilt by having some of the feathers 
of both wings cut. I sent one of these hens afterwards to Carlisle ; 
she had a perfect comb when she went, this was spoilt by having the 
centre of the comb cut out. Now all this malicious injury must have 
been done in the show rooms, and by persons skilled in such work.— 
Mary Witkin, Bootle, Carnforth, Cumberland. 


A PIGEON-CARRYING CASE. 
GRAHAM versus LonDoN AND NortH-WestERN Rattway Company. 


Mr. Frank Grawam, 13, Market Place South, Birkenhead, was the 
plaintiff in this action, and the defendants were the London and 
North-Western Railway Company. Mr. Anderson appeared for the 
plaintiff, and Mr. Preston for the defendants. The claim was for 
£6 8s. 4d., compensation for loss sustained by the plaintiff, owing, it 
was alleged, to delay on the part of the servants of the defendants in 
delivering two baskets containing Pigeons, entrusted to them for 
delivery at Sydenham. The claim was £2 1és., fees paid for entry, 
10s. 4d. for carriage paid to defendants, and £3 33. for a cup which 
the Pigeons would certainly have won had they been forwarded in 
time. Mr. Anderson said that he was somewhat dubious about being 
able to maintain his claim to the last item. The Judge remarked that 
Mr. Anderson’s would be a very convenient way of winning the blue 
ribbon of the turf—to bring forward, after the race was run, a horse, 
and say it would have been quite sure to win if only it had arrived in 
time. Plaintiff failed in proving the non-delivery, and consented to 
a nonsuit. 

Mr. Graham says, “‘I should certainly have gained the day had the 
Secretaries of the Show answered my letters and sent me particulars as 
to the time of receiving the Pigeons, so that I might obtain a witness 
to prove the non-delivery. The only information I could obtain was 
through the kindness of the Judge, Jones Percivall, Ksq., who rendered 
me every assistance in his power. The conduct of the Secretaries is 
so strange that I, as well as my solicitor, Mr. Anderson, now think the 


birds must have arrived in time, and through some negligence were 
not penned. Perhaps the Secretaries will state the reason in your 
columns.” 


THE UNITED KINGDOM RABBIT CLUB. 


Tats Club, I am happy to say, is now a reality, which will, I am 
sure, be hailed by all interested in the rearing and exhibition of fancy 
Rabbits as a powerful help to their being placed in that position to 
which their worth entitles them. Iam glad that so much interest has 
been manifested in the formation of the Club, and that we have had 
s0 many expressions of opinion from those whose experience both of 
Rabbits and exhibitions entitles their opinions to respect. One result 
is certain—viz., that the committees of the various shows and this 
Club will be able to work together for mutual advantage; and if com- 
mittees will study their own interests, the Club will tend to the further- 
ance of those interests, and also carry out the intention of placing 
Rabbits in a better position amongst their neighbours for competition. 

It is very important that a competent judge should be provided for 
each show, and that the Rabbits alone should be his work, and not 
that a judge’s almost exhausted energies should be entirely spent upon 
them after bestowing the strength and vigour of the early day upon 
other parts of the show. Can we wonder that at times such unsatis- 
factory results follow? After several hours of nice and careful ex- 
amination of feathers, it may be a judge is not generally much in the 
mood to turn his attention to fur and award the prizes. I think one 
object of the Club should be the selection of judges whose knowledge 
of the various points of Rabbits, from long experience as breeders and 
exhibitors, is unquestionable; also that a code of rules as to the 
points to be adopted should be drawn up for the guidance of such 
judges, so that some uniformity may be found in their decisions. A 
register should be kept of the names and addresses of the members, 
the Rabbits in stock when such return is made, the number of entries, 
and the prizes received at the shows. This register might contain 
the rules, and any other information of importance to fanciers, and 
be sold at a reasonable price to each member to protect the Club from 
loss by its publication. There are many, I doubt not, who are neither 
breeders nor exhibitors, yet would be glad to become honorary members, 
and I see no reason for refusal. The subscription is small enough, 
yet I am glad to learn a great proportion of the members, so far, have 
not thought the 2s. 6d. a sum commensurate with the expenses in- 
curred in the formation of the Club, and so have placed the Treasurer 
in a more comfortable position. 

Iam glad so much information hag been spread through the pages 
of ‘our Journal ;” and the affair is taken up by the best men for 
the purpose, who have gone into the affair con amore. I know the 
Secretary will have had much to do, and will yet have to do more, in 
order that success may be secured, therefore I suggest to all corre- 
spondents the advantage of their enclosing a stamped and addressed 
envelope for a reply when such is needed. 

The register alluded to, I think, might be brought out in July next; 
but that is a matter for the Committee to determine.—CHARLES 
Rayson, Ivy Lodge, Didsbury, near Manchester. 


BrruincHaM CaTrrLE AND Poutrry SHow.—The annual meet- 
ing of the Council to revise the prize lis is fixed for April 6th, 
previous to which suggestions as to any alterations deemed 
advisable, and any offers of special prizes, may be sent to Mr. 
John B. Lythall, Secretary. 


NOTES FROM MY CANARY ROOM.—No. 3. 


Bear in mind these notes are not intended to apply specially 
to any one of the numerous classes into which Canaries are 
divided, but must be understood as being general in their ap- 
plication. Further, readers will please consider them as a 
friendly hand-in-hand chat as we go along, not entering into too 
much detail, as at no distant day the Canary will be presented 
in a way which will exhaust the subject. 

The best Canaries you can put in your cage are a pair of 
Norwich birds, a yellow cock and a buff hen, or vice versd. I 
will not here enter into any explanation of the reason why it 
is best to do this, or indulge in any ‘‘ Diversions in Breeding.” 
This and other matters will be fully treated upon by-and-by in 
another form. My hints are for those who never put up a pair 
of birds before. If you wish to breed clear birds pair them as 
I have just now said; if you wish for marked birds, let either 
the cock or the hen be marked; and if you desire to breed 
crested birds, pair a crested cock and a plain-headed hen, and 
vice versa. Clear birds will produce clear crests, and dark 
markings on either side will produce a fair proportion of vurie- 
gated crested young ones in every nest—i.e., if the cock be 
clear or grey-crested pair him with a marked hen, and if dark- 
crested put him to a clear hen. 

One cannot remember everything, and last week I was so 
hurried that I forgot to say that if your breeding cage consists 


246 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ March 30, 1871. 


of two or more compartments they should be connected by a 
moveable partition, or a circular hole which can be closed at 
will by 2 door suspended in front. This arrangement will 
admit of your running one cock withtwohens. Keep him with 
the first till she goes to nest and lays at least her first egg, 
when you can pass him through to the other. By the time 
No. 2 has built and laid her eggs the first hen will be about 
chipping. But there will be time enough to talk about this 
next week, by which time I daresay some will have eggs. Till 
then feed on a mixture of Canary, summer rape, linseed, and 
a little hempseed, giving a teaspoenful of chopped hard-boiled 
egg and bread crumbs every morning. Supply such green food 
as may be in season—chickweed, groundsel, watercress, or 
lettuce—W. A. Buaxston. 


THE BUSTARD. 


Our friend ‘‘WiutsHire Rector” hag given. us some account 
of the capture of the specimen belonging to the Rev. G. T. 
Marsh. Possibly some account of the recent captures may 
interest some of your readers. 

As the story is told in our little Wiltshire town, three of 
these birds were seen on Salisbury Plain, also by a boy, who 
was ‘‘bird-tending.”’ He, seeing such large game, loaded his 
old gun with a marble, and made a random shot at the trio at 
some 130 or 140 yards distance, wounding one of the smaller 
birds, which he captured. This bird is at the present time in 
our little town, being set up by our local bird-stuffer, King by 
name, and by nature in his art, having few equals. The speci- 
men is not much damaged, and 2 little time since formed one 
of our locai ‘ lions,’’ if it be possible that a bird can ever make 
a quadruped. 

The remaining pair of birds were descried by a gentleman in 
the neighbourhood of the Plain with a telescope, and a party 
made to capture them, Fortunately for bird No. 3, the pair 
came within gunshot of the only single barrel of the party, and 
one thus escaped; the other paid the penalty to the single 
barrel._Y. B. A. Z., Warminster. 


A JUST REMONSTRANCE BY THE WIFE OF 
A CANARY FANCIER. 


Mr. Eprror, 

Sir, | There has been such a stir | and such a commotion | 
with this new-fangled notion, | that I really don’t know | what 
on earth I shall do. | Birds are all very well | to rear or to 
sell | in a moderate way, | but these mad schemes don’t pay. | 
T’ve talked till I’m hoarse, | and just made matters worse ; | so 
at last I decided | if in you I confided | (for of course you’re 
A.1), | the thing might bedone. | You’renot to take what I say | 
cum grano salis: Nay, ney! | ’Tis true every whit, | ’m not 
romancing a bit. | If 1 want a new dress, | and my wishes con- 
fess, | it’s ‘‘Haven’t you heard? |T’ve bought such a grand 
bird ; | 2 magnificent crest | and ;’ you guess the rest. | 
If Iventure to say | ‘It’s such a fine day, | we might go fora 
walk.” | ‘My dear, how you talk! | P’'ve John Young to seo; | 
and if I’m not there to tea, | or at least before school, | I shan’t 
see his clean Mule.” | He did once say ‘‘ Yes,” | and I ran off 
to dress, | thinking, ‘‘ What a rare treat | to stroll down the 
High Street! | I'll perhaps get a bonnet | with a nice feather 
on it.” | But when I walked down | in my very best gown, | he 
said, (wasn’tit mean ?) | ‘‘ Now we’ll go to the Dene; | the birds 
want some fresh moss.” | I declare I felt cross. | If I go soon 
to bed | to recrnit a sick head, | my lord’s sure to come | with 
some new ‘‘ wonder” home; | and he tears up the stair | witha 
rush of cold air. | ‘‘ Bessie, are you asleep? | Do just take a 
peep! | I’m sure you ne’er saw | suck a beauty before!” | And 
if ever I choose | in the morning to snooze, | if I’m not first 
turned out | I’m aroused with a shout | in the voice of a Sten- 
tor, | orsome gruff old precentor, | ‘‘ Percy, runtothestation,”’ | 
(yow’ad think the whole nation | was rising, but no). | “‘ Now 
come, don’t dawdle so, | or the birds will be dead, | for they'll 
want to be fed!’ | If he stays in the house | I must sit like a 
mouse, | for ‘‘ the Judge” wants to write | or a letter indite. | 
And if I dare speak, | the long silence to break, | ‘‘ I’ve got an 
idea, | just keep quiet and hear.” | Or if I turn weary | of a 
stillness so dreary, | andrun off for a while, | ’t would make Mel- 
pomene smile | to see him rush to the stairs. | ‘‘ Ma, are there 
two f’s in affairs?” | or, what’s still more absurd, | “‘ Bessie, 
what’s that French word? | I wish you'd stay here ; | youknow 
I want you, my dear.” | And then, oh! the washings, | the 
soapings and splashings, | the ransacking of drawers, | against 


all wifely laws, | and (which he sees no sinin), | the waste of 
good linen; | because, ‘‘ You know, dear, | birds require so 
much care; |a bit of cambric’s not much, | and it’s soft to 
the touch.” | He raves about ‘‘ feather,” | and pros and cons 
whether | he’ll mate Buff with Buff, | and all sorts of stuff. | 
Then there’s making of cages, | and such comic rages | because 
‘‘ Jack”? borrows his tools, | or runs off with his rules; | or his 
nails are all done, | or his chalk line is gone; | or his wood is 
too wet, | or his saw isn’t set; | or his chisel’s no edge, | or his 
plane wants a wedge. | And such buying of brushes, | and such 
frantic rushes | after whitewash and blue | as youneyer knew. | 
Then think of his outings, | his judgings and routings. | He 
never feels dull ; | his head’s far too full | of all kinds of things | 
both without and with wings. | If his nose is pure Grecian | and 
his profile patrician, | he need’nt have all | life’s pleasures at 
eall. | Now without any joking, | isn’t all this provoking? | 
Don’t you pity the wife | that leads such a strange life? | ’m 
always expected | to go out unprotected, | and never to frown | 
when he “runs up” to town. | But when he next turns his 
feet | to the honse in Fleet Street, | if you'll just say a word | 
(for I know you'll be heard), | toimprove my hard case, | in my 
prayers you'll find place; | and I shall evermore be | yours 
most grateful—B. B., 


VENTILATION OF HIVES DURING WINTER. 

Ix compliance with the request of ‘‘R. §.,” in page 191, re- 
garding the ventilation of hives during winter, I may say that 
in practice it much resembles that which our leading horti- 
culturists impress so much on amateurs and young gardeners 
in the heating and ventilating of their greenhouses and 
vineries. They must study the weather, and in a great measure 
be able to foretell what is likely to occur during the next twelve 
hours ; thus they are able to apportion with certainty the proper 


; amount of heat or ventilation: so also must we study the weather, 


and so must we regulate our hives. 

As it is a description of my mode of ventilation that ‘‘ R. S.’” 
requests, and not the advantages derived from it, I will confine 
myself principally to describing the former. In the first place, 
therefore (and I hope he will, if 1 am wrong, pardon the sugges- 
tion), I may review the case described by ‘‘R. S.,” by cutting 
small holes in the block of wood sufficient to prevent the egress 
of bees, and opening a hole in the top only an inch in diameter. 
In the case of 2 straw or even a wooden hive with a solid crown 
it is possible that this supposed ventilation might actually have 
been closed with comb and propolis, and so instead of a draught 


| being the means of killing the bees—as, when we take into con- 


sideration the case of a hive being turned topsy-turvy, and re- 
maining all night with the thermometer within one degree of 
zero without receiving any harm, I am almost certain could 
not have been the case—it must, in my opinion, haye been a 
case of suffocation. The partial closing of the doorway, leaving 
only the small holes in the block of wood, was, if I am correct, 
the very worst policy to pursue. With the hole in the top 
possibly closed (and if not, the milk pan and extra covering 
were sufficient to prevent proper ventilation), the bees would 
naturally come to the doorway, and in their endeayours to get 
out would entirely close the entrance, and raise a general com- 
motion. Next would occur clusters of dead bees, and thus the 
whole would become a total wreck. 

The great secret with regard to bees during snow, is to entirely 
close the entrance, and ventilate at the top or back of the hive, 
or both combined. I have my hives made with the doorway 
running nearly the whole width of the hive; this is regulated 
by a slide, either to shut quite close or give a doorway nearly 
the whole width. If I have any suspicions that the doorway 
admits the least ray of light I cover it with a piece of cloth ; 
then I ventilate according to the state of the weather and num- 
ber of bees. The ventilators are placed at the back of the hive, 
about 1} inch from the top, and are either sliding or revolving, 
similar to the ventilators in kitchen ranges or those used under- 
neath the floors of buildings; they are holes bored in the hive 
between every comb, and opposite these are holes bored in a 
thin piece of wood covered with perforated zinc, which may be 
either the whole width or less as required. The revolving ones 
haye one screw nail in the centre to turn upon, and the sliding 
ones haye two or three with small mortices ent out to allow 
them to travel. Should I consider this too little ventilation, 
my crown-board being all bar and slide, with the feeding place in 
the centre, the latter being at all times covered with perforated 
zine, I have only to remove what stops the hole. If this is not 
enough I run in one or more slides of perforated zinc in place 


a 


March 80, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 247 


of the wooden ones, and remove the covering. The wooden 
slides ought to be removed in the antumn, and the top covered 
with some woollen material. The bees thus closed in make no 
attempt at getting out at the door—they naturally draw them- 
selves to the ventilators, and as the heated air ascends if keeps 
the bees near them quite comfortable and quiet. A little prac- 
tice with the sound of the bees gives one a very good idea what 
amount of ventilation is required. 

These ventilators in the back of the hive are not for winter 
only ; I use them to a groat extent in summer, when they are, 
in my opinion, a great preventive of foul brood, and add 
greatly to the weight.of supers, doing away also to a great extent 
with the necessity for nadirs, and preventing clustering outside. 
Whenever the weather is suitable during the honey season and 
the hive becoming crowded, the super is put on; the doorway 
is then extended the whole width, and tho ventilator is drawn 
—this keeps the stock hive cool. The super or supers are well 
wrapped up and kept warm, so that comb-building goes on un- 
interruptedly and with but very few bees, whilst the stream of 
bees at work is far greater than when the stock hive is over- 
heated. Such contrivances and tho study of the nature of the 
bee, together with plenty of white clover and bean blossom, are 
the means whereby we got so fine and so many supers, notwith- 
standing the calumnious, nay, false accusations made by your 
esteemed correspondent, Mr. Pattigrew. I may add that the 
whole of my hives are kept in a bee-house, which is as well venti- 
lated as the hives themselves, besides being insect-proof.—A 
DanarksHire BEE-KEEPER, 


THE LARGEST APIARY IN THE UNITED 
STATES. 


Captain J. E. Heruerineton is stated by the American “Bee- 
keepers’ Journal’’ to control, perhaps, the largest apiary in the 
United States. Purchasing his first swarm at the age of eleven 
years, with 5 dols. earned for the purpose, he so increased it by 
purchase and natural swarming that the spring of 1859 found 
him with sixty-four stocks, from which in the succeeding autumn 
he sent to market 3500 lbs. of fine box-honey besides nearly 
doubling his stock. When the civil war broke out he left to 
the management of others three hundred swarms of his winged 
favourites, and entered the service as a private in the first regi- 
ment U.S. sharp-shooters, in which he served till 1864, when he 
received his discharge on account of disability, arising from haying 
been thrice wounded, and retired with the rank of Captain. We 
have said that he has the largest apiary in the United States, 
and do not think it can be denied. In the autumn of 1868 he 
had nine hundred hives, and his present number is seven hundred. 
This honey is all sent to market in beautifully made boxes, never 
containing more than four pounds each. Many thousands of 
these boxes find their way annually to the metropolis from his 
aplaries in Cherry Valley in New York, and always command 
the best prices. : 


MR. PETTIGREW’S BALANCE SHEET FOR 1870. 


i My garden is on the immediate south of the black, but not mean 
city of Manchester. Our position is too near the city for honey- 
gathering. Hence we send most of our hives of bees four or five miles 
into the country, where they are placed in cottage and market gardens 
during the spring and summer months. Any out-of-the-way or rub- 
bishy corners of such gardens answer well as a stand or home for bees. 
We gladly pay rent for a small space in such places; and our items 
of expense for rent and carriage are always heavy, and astonish those 
whose bees are never removed from their own gardens. 

The present year, like 1868 and 1869, has not been favourable for 
honey-gathering. Owing to the long-continued drought and easterly 
winds, honey was but scantily secreted in and yielded by flowers. 
Easterly winds seemed to prevent or stanch back the secretion of honey 
which is so abundantly found in the nectars of flowers when the wind 
is warm from south or west. The month of July, which is usually 
the best of the season, was this year quite a failure, as hives lost 
weight then, instead of gaining it, in this part of England. 

In 1868 our income from bees was £32; expenses, £5 ; profit, £27. 
In 1869 our income was £43; expenses, £13; profit, £30. This year 
our income is £70; expenses, £20; profit £50. Of course, the income 
is derived from the sale of honey, honeycomb, wax, and hives. Our 
honey is sold at 1s. per 1b., honeycomb at 1s. 3d. and 1s. 6d. per lb., 
hives in autumn are sold at their honey value. Our expenses this 
year were swelled up by these items:—carriage, £5; rent, £5; empty 
new hives and boards, £9; feeding, £1; total, £20. 

But how many hives do you keep? TLast autumn we had forty-two, 
which were valued at an average of 23s. per hive, which is 7s. a-piece 
Jess than really good hives are worth. Owing to the protracted winter 


and cold spring months five of the weakest hives died, and six or seven 
more were so reduced and weakened that they never swarmed at all. 
Nine swarms became fugitives and were lost from want of time on our 
part to look after and hive them. One hive of bees and lots of little 
presents of honey and honeycomb were given to friends. 

The number of hives kept as our stock this autumn is forty-five, 
which are in fine condition, averaging 6s. a-piece better than those of 
last year. If 1871 be a good honey year they will enable us to present 
amore favourable balance sheet next time. We value them at 28s. 
each. We use no wooden boxes of any kind as domiciles for bees, con- 
sidering them objectionable from almost every point of view. Hx- 
pensive hives, too, are out of the question, as they consume and waste 
money and serve no good end to the purchaser. We use nothing but 
well-made straw hives of large dimensions, which we think answer and 
look better than any other kind of hive. Our bees are the common 
sort—the true honey bee—Apis mellijica, which can never be surpassed 
for industry and real work. Only think of a working man having 
2,000,000 of servants working for him, and not one lazy creature 
among them, save a few drones which are produced at certain seasons 
for important purposes! We think highly and wish to speak. well of 
our insect servants, for they require but little attention and cost 
comparatively little for food. What lessons of industry, economy, 
cleanliness, sociality, contentment, and loyalty are taught by them! 
Whoever introduces to the notice of working men anything more pro- 
fitable or more easily managed than afew swarms of bees will be hailed 
as a benefactor.—A. Prrricrew, Rusholme, Manchester. 


HERMAPHRODITE BEES. 


I ENcLOosE a specimen of a drone which has the peculiarity of 
possessing part of the worker and part of the drone. You will 
see that one of the hind legs or tibiw is formed like that of a 
drone, while the other is like a worker, although not quite 
perfect. The antenne and proboscisare slightly different, while 
the eyes are like those of a worker. I shall be glad if anyone 
can explain this aberration which I have often seen. I have, 
however, only once met with the black bees spoken of by 
Huber, it occurred in an Italian hive last summer, and a great 
many were expelled in one day. Leollected anumber and stored 
them in a box for examination, but several earwigs got in and 
devoured them, although they left untouched a number of 
workers placed beside them. They appeared to be part queen 
and part worker, possessing the legs and abdomen of the queen, 
while other parts resembled the worker, the sting being slightly 
curved. Bees here are far advanced for the season, and for the 
past two weeks drones have been flying about. On the morning 
of Wednesday the 15th inst. the thermometer in a sheltered 
position stood at 80°, consequently much damage has béen done 
owing to the advanced state of things. Raspberries are com- 
pletely destroyed, also the most forward Gooseberries, and it is 
to be feared other fruit blossoms, although not so forward, will 
fail to sef their fruit.A LanarxsHine BrE-KEEPER. 


[We have submitted the bees which accompanied your letter 
to Mr. F. Smith, the distingnished hymenopterist, who says :— 
“‘T have examined the two honey bees—one is pure male; I 
detect nothing of the other sex init. The other is as follows : 
—size of worker bee, antenne and eyes worker. Left anterior 
leg malo, right intermediate and posterior leg both male. The 
left posterior leg is true worker, having the first joint of the 
tarsus covered within with rows of stiff hairs. The abdomen 
has the silky gloss of a male, but is the same size as that of a 
worker ; at the samo time it is of the blunt form of the male 
at the tip.” ] 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


SpanisH HEN’s Crop (J. S.).—The erop is only the receptacle for the 
food, whence it passes into the stomach, where it is digested. We cannot 
pretend to give you the reasons that guided the creation of a fowl, but 
the crop is a convenient and necessary appendage to an animal without 
teeth. Your Spanish hen is probably crop-bound. If she is you must 
pour hot water down her throat until you can feel her crop full, and 
ascertain whether the lump in the crop softens; if it do not, you must 
open the crop and take it out. It is not difficult. Pick off some feathers 
in front, and cut it open with a very sharp knife, remove the undigested 
mass carefully, sew up the crop with coarse thread, and rub the suture 
thoroughly with grease. You must sew the crop first, and then the skin, 
be careful not to sew the two together. Oatmeal alone is better food 
than it is if mixed with peas or maize. As you have lost five, your fowls 
are either poisoned, or there is something very unwholesome lying about. 
Spanish chickens require no particular food except stimulants at times, 
and the best of these is beer. The hens should be with the cock a fort- 
night. 

Cocutns’ Comp Droopine (James).—The complaint you make is a com- 
mon one, in many cases it results from over-feeding ; thus, you may take 
a bird with a comb hard and erect as though cut out of a sheet of metal; 
put him up to fatten, and as the process goes on you will see it first 
become flaccid, then lop, and then fall oyer entirely. Much has been 
said and written about supplying them with bone dust, and thereby 
affording the material for greater strength; but we believe it is only 


248 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ Mfarch 30, 1871. 


necessary to choose birds that have unmistakeably erect combs for 
breeders, and to discard all others, in order to banish faulty ones from a 
yard. You may find the greatest encouragement and inducement to try, 
in the fact that formerly all the Spanish had falling combs, but as soon as 
such were discarded by the judges they disappeared, and are now neyer 
geen. 

Friavour oF Eaas (4. C.).—You do not state the breed of the fowls; 
some eggs are unquestionably richer than others. Spanish have always 
been considered the best, having the largest proportion of yolk. Cochins 
are often so full of flavour that they are called strong. Créve-Cceur and 
Houdan eggs are both good. Hamburghs are sometimes thought poor. 
Weather affects eggs; they are thought to have more flavour in mild and 
hot, than in chilly weather. We have no doubt that a liberal supply of 
grass, in the shape of large sods{cut with plenty of earth and given daily, 
wili improye the eggs. Your food is good. 

FatrentnGc Hens (Idem).—We think a hen too old to fatten after six 
months. When a hen has done laying she wants to sit, unless she is of a 
non-sitting breed. If you are bent on fattening your hens, the best plan 
is to do so in the winter. They will want keeping to make them tolerably 
tender, and you will only be able to do it in cold weather. We have no 
doubt the mixture will keep eggs, but we have always foand salt com- 
municated its flavour to the eggs. We keep them in plain wetted lime. It 
is slaked, so as to admit of its being poured over the eggs, and of its 
hardening in a few hours. 


DuckKWING AND BLAcK RED GAME FowLs TOGETHER (R. P.).— The 
best way to introduce Duckwing blood into your yard, is to turn down 
one hen. The cross then is so small you can easily get rid of it at any 
time, whereas, if you puta cock, the strain may run through the whole 
yard, Duckwings, if true-feathered, are great favourites on account of 
their beauty, and generally distinguished in the prize sheet, but they are 
not always preferred to the Black or Brown Reds. 


Waitt Dorxgines’ Ecos (J. H. C.).—You should buy some eggs of the 
prizetakers at the large shows. 


Earty Dorginc Cuickens (4 Monthly Reader).—The reason of the 
failing of vour Dorkings is that you do not keep supplying your yard with 
pullets. We haveat the present time Dorkings with chickens eight weeks 
old. Hens will not sit early, pullets will, but only for the first season. 
They are hens afterwards. Chickens hatched now should lay in October, 
and be broady in January, such will sit well. The only advantage in 
Brahmas will be, they lay at an earlier age. We know no better mother 
than a Dorking. These have been much mistaken as to the climate 
necessary for them. They are hardy, but will not bear confinement. We 
have seen as good birds bred in Lancashire and Scotland, as in Surrey 
and Sussex. ‘he outer skins cannot be removed without injury to the 
bird. You should not breed from him. 


Brauma Cock (Clericus)—If he continues ‘“ bullying” the hens, buy 
some others, pullets preferably. If he is not more courteous to them, 
you had better sell him, though he has taken two first prizes. Buck- 


wheat is’sown in April. If you refer to page 187, you will see notes onits 
culture. 


Cost oF A Pountrry SHow (7. M.).—Our correspondent wishes for a 
balance-sheet of the receipts and expenditure in connection with holding 
a show; being desirous to know whether there are any shows which are 
self-supporting, if not, how the deficiency is made up, and what is the 
most popular amount of entry fee; also the cost of fitting-up, advertising, 
management, and prize money, the fee given to judges, &c. 


SHancHse Eces (H.).—Shanghae is synonymous with Cochin-China: 
If you refer to our advertising columns you will see many vendors to 
whom you can apply. 


SmaLuL Ece (4. Knowles)—Such miscarriages are very common. We 
have seen eggs not much bigger than a pea. 


Hen Cock (W. J. W.).—It is not uncommon for a hen to acquire the 
plumage of a cock, and even to crow. Such a bird is worthless, we have 
seen more than one. It was formerly said, 

“ A whistling woman and a crowing hen, 
Foretell evil to the men.” 

PoULTRY-KEEPING IN A LiwiTED SpacE (4. D.).—You have not had the 
Hamburgh long enough to say whether or no it will prove a good layer. 
Although laying when you bought it, the change of home, food, and habits 
would account for its ceasing to do so. We think Brahmas, Cochins, 
oz Créve-Cceurs would suit you, or Spanish. Perhaps the last two will be 
best, as they do not sit, and broody hens are nuisances in small spaces. 


SILV2R-PENCILLED HAMBURGH CHICKENS—CHITTEPRATS (Chitteprat). 
—The chickens hatch out darker, and moult lighter and more correctly 
as to markings as they grow older. The Pencilled Hamburgh was and is 
known in many parts of the north as a Chitteprat. 


Various (G. 1.).—You may keep twenty-four hens and two cocks with- 
out trouble in your run 63 feet by 15 feet, with one-quarter of an acre of 
grass. By painstaking you might increase the number, but it is in every 
way better to be understocked than overstocked. In such a space as you 
name the dust need not be under cover. At this time of year, during the 
cutting easterly winds, it is better that the chickens should be sheltered 
for three or four days, but in fine sunshiny weather they should be put 
out after afew hours. Change the food by substituting meal for whole 
corn, and sometimes maize instead of barley. Scraps of any kind are 
also good. 


SorE oN Cock’s Come (R. W.).—The hens in all probability first made 
the sore by picking the comb. Separate him from any others, and rub 
the sore with citron ointment. When houses are kept clean no powders 
are required. We have never tried that you mention. Most of them 
affect the nostrils and eyes of the birds. 


WooperinGe Pouttry SHow.— Please note the following printer’s 
errors in the catalogue. R. F. Nalder, Croydon, first prize Jacobins; 
J. W. Collinson, first prize for Antwerps.—C. DRAKE, Hon. Sec.” ‘‘ My 
attention has been called to the remarks of your reporter on pen 82 (Golden- 
pencilled Hamburghs). The birds alluded to have been exhibited six 
times, and have been awarded the undermentioned prizes—2nd at South- 
ampton, lst and cup at Ipswich, 1st at Lowestoft, 2nd at Oakham, 2nd at 
ColenbeteE: and highly commended at Portsmouth. —THE OWNER oF 

EN 82.” 


AxLEsBury Decks (J. W. S.).—We believe the early eggs will belong to 
the old drake. 


Bee Hives (4 Subscriber).—Write to the dealers in hives who advertise 
in our columns and tell them what you need. Write to them all. 

Begs DEAD IN THE Comes (W. Steward).—The bit of comb sent was 
old, but we could detect no evidence of disease, and can therefore only 
surmise that in those cases wherein the bees have died, leaving a store 
of honey, the hives were either insufficiently protected from cold and 
wet, or that their inhabitants dwindled away owing to the deaths of their 
queens during winter. Where no honey was left the inference woald, of 
course, be that the bees perished from starvation, 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERYATIONS, 
CAMDEN, SquaRE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0’ W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Dare. 9 a.m. In THE Day. 
Lae \Shade Tem- Radiation iu 
1s71. |$2,2--| Hygrome- | pireg. Temp. | ‘perature. || Lemeeraalae 
Bezel ft |tion ofloe Soll memes 4 
Mareh./3,65 Wind. | at 1 ft. In | On 
Ase Max. | Min.| gun. | grass! 
deg. | deg. | deg.| deg. | deg.| In. 
E. 41.6 55.2 | 818 | 86.6 | 28.8 = 
HB. 42.0 65.5 | 344 | 948 | 32.8 = 
E. 42.6 68.4 | 38.2 |100.1 | 33.2 = 
S.W. 43.8 66.6 | 89.2 |107.6 | 34.8 | 0.040 
S.E. 44.2 ¢8.7 | 48.5 |110.0 | 49.0 | 0.038 
N. 44.3 51.2 | 45.5 | 87.1 | 414 — 
N.E. 44.8 46.8 | 30.3 | 98.0 | 27.8 = 
43.4 60.8 | 37.5 | 97.7 | 84.0 | 0.078 


REMARKS. 
22nd.—Fine spring-like day, but misty in the evening. 
23rd.—Fine morning, rather dull about noon, but very fine afternoon and 
evening. 
24th.—Cloudless nearly all day. and extremely hot for the time of year. 
25th.—Very fine warm day, cooler in the evening, rain after midnight. 
26th.—Rather dull morning, fine afternoon, rain during the night. 
27th.—Much cooler, though fine. 
28th.—Very cold all day, though fine and occa:ionally sunny, and very 
bright at night. 
The period from 28rd to 26th inclusive one of extreme warmth. Higher 
temperatures have been recorded, but I do not know of an instance of four 
consecutive days in March with maxima exceeding 65°.—G. J. SYMONS. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Marcu 29. 


A sTEADY demand, with the supply about equal to it, has enabled the 
dealers to obtain the same rates during this week as in the previous one. 
Winter fruits, however, now begin to assume a very perishing character, 
and considerable quantities of ordinary Apples are offered at very low 
rates. Dessert Pears are nearly over. The Potato trade is heavy, and 
Jarge arrivals are to hand. Importations of French salading and Aspara- 
gus are tolerably regular. 


FRUIT. 

8d. 5. d s.d.s. da 
Apples........ 6 to8 0 | Mulberries............lb. 0 Ot00 0 
Apricots. i 0 O 0| Nectarines. doz. 00 00 
Cherries.... .-lb. 0 0 O 0} Oranges.. 100-6 0 10 0 
Chestnuts. . bushel 10 0 18 Gj Peaches.. doz, 00 00 
Currants -..-¢8ieve 0 0 O 0} Pears,kitchen. doz. 20 60 
«do. 0 0 0 0 dessert... doz 3 0 8 0 
- 0 0 O O| Pine Apples. -Ib. 6 0 10 0 
- 0 0 2 0} Plums.... 00 00 
. 2 0 2 6} Quinces.. . 00 00 
0 0 O Oj} Raspberries. 3 OO Ww 
Ib. 10 0 20 Q| Strawberries Srozsean0 a. 0 
#100 6 0 10 0 | Walnuts... bushel 10 0 16 0 
Melons...........-..each 0 0 0 0 GO....csecceeeee P100 10 2 0 

VEGETABLES. 
; s.d. 8. a s. d. 8. d 
Artichokes..........d0z. 4 0to6 0 0 4to0 & 
Asparagus ....... 1 ,008810)5.0; TO ete 0 
Beans, Kidney 2°70 88-40 Ho Eh 
Broad.... Ops Oise OK. 02 00 
20 80 56 8 0 
BaCion 8) al 0006€«008/ 9 
Brussels Sprouts..tsieve 8 0 4 0 80 60 
Cabbage..!..... doz. 10 20 09 10 
Capsicums .... #100 00 00 00 0090 
0 4 O 8j| Potatoes... 20 40 
20 50 Kidney.... 2...do. 8 0 4 0 
Woeete Je 1 6 2 0| Radishes..doz.bunches 0 6 1 0 
Coleworts..doz. bunches 3 0 6 0} Rhubarb... . dlaa09 16 
Cucumbers ........each 0 6 1 6| Savoys. .. ‘doz. 16 2 0 
pickling 00 O 0| Sea-kale... basket 2 0 8 0 
Endive\ 2 0 O 0} Shallots seit isk Gh 1) 
Fennel 0 8 0 0} Spinach... bushel 38 0 5 @ 
Garlic ....-lb. 0 8 0 0] Tomatoes --doz. 00 00 
Herbs.:..... . bunch 0 8 0 0} Turnips .......... bunch 0 6 0 9 
Horseradish ....bundle 3 0 6 0} VegetableMarrows..doz. 0 0 0 0 


POULTRY MARKET.—Marcn 29. 
WE nave a yery small supply of young poultry, and are not without 
indications of scarcity. Not only has it been an unfayourable winter for 


breeding, but the absence of a regular supply from abroad has caused a 
diminution of our usual stock. Prices are high. 


gs d. 8s. d gs. d. 8.0 
Large Fowl!s ... 4 Oto4 6 Pigeons .............. 0 9 to 0 10 
Smaller ditto . 8 6 4 O | Rabbits ... . 2b) i es: 
Chickens . 8 0 8 6 Wild ditto yee 1) 2) 
Ducklings . BM wo Hares ..... - O 0 -0: ‘0 
Goslings . SHON 920) Guinea Fowl. 5 Se htOh seOaano, 
Pheasants... 0. 0) 510) 0, | Gromge)cccetecceescee 0 (0) 10970 


4 
; 


April 6, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 249 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon's | Clock | Day 
Rn pare APRIL 6—12, 1871. ture near London. |43 years.| Rises. | Sets Rises. | Sets: Age. petore mo 
Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. |m. h.|m. h.| m. h,| m. h.| Days, | m. 38. 
6 | TH | Meeting of Linnean Society, 8 P.M. 57.0 | 36.9 | 47.2 14 27 af5 | 40 af6 | 59 af7 | 87af6 16 2°81] 96 
ok Goop Fripay. 57.7 | 86.8 | 47.3 21 24 5/41 6/25 9] 4 7 17 2 13] 97 
8 s 56.1 | 85.8 | 46.0 23 22 =«+#5 38 6)]50 10| 86 7 18 1 56 98 
9 | SUN | Easter SuNDAY. 55.0 | 85.3 | 45.2 22, 20 5/44 6] morn. |17 8 19 1 39) 99 
10 M 55.9 | 33.5 | 44.7 16 18 5)|)45 6:12 0 Ghia) 20 1 22] 100 
it | Tu 56.0 | 85.2 | 45.6 290 |15 5/46 6|24 1) 14 10 21 1 6} 101 
12 | W Royal Botanic Society’s Spring Show. 55.8 | 86.4 | 46.1 27 18 5/48 6] 23 2) 24 11 (¢ 0 50 | 102 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 56.2°, and its night tem- 


perature 85.7°. 
0.73 inch. 


The greatest heat was 79°, on the 7th, 1859; and the lowest cold 20°, on the 10th, 1860. The greatest fall of rain was 


THE CULTIVATION OF THE GRAPE VINE. 


es 
 O) 


) 


Vines and Vine-culture ; more able writers 
and more experienced cultivators than I can 


experience in these pages, and it seems need- 
less to go over the same ground, if the nume- 
rous questions which are contained in the 
“ Answers to Correspondents” did not show 
that information is still required on this 
subject. 

As a wall fruit in favourable seasons and positions, the 
Grape is well worthy of cultivation out of doors in the 
south of England. My experience with this method of 
culture is rather limited, but it does not seem that many 
varieties ought to be grown in this way. The Black Ham- 
burgh and even the Muscat of Alexandria have ripened 
out of doors when the season has been unusually favourable, 
but under such circumstances the well-known variety Royal 
Muscadine, when placed in competition with them, has 
generally been placed first for flavour; it is the variety 
usually grown in this neighbourhood trained to the walls 
of cottages, and sometimes carries immense crops of fruit. 

At is not my intention to enter into all the details of 
Vine-culture, but merely to make a few suggestive remarks. 

In the first place, as regards varieties, there are so many 

now in cultivation, and few growers require more than at 
the most half a dozen, that it is'a matter of much anxiety 
to know what sorts to plant. It is best to plant the largest 
proportion of black Grapes, and there is none so generally 
useful as the Black Hamburgh. This variety succeeds in 
positions and under circumstances where many highly- 
lauded sorts would be comparative failures, and there is no 
other Grape, black or white, which would so well of itself 
keep up a supply all the year round. 
, Royal Ascot, sent out a few years ago, I would place 
in a higher position than is sometimes accorded it, and 
Iam inclined to believe that this sort will yet be grown 
to a large extent when it is better known, being robust in 
growth and free-bearing, the berries setting as freely as 
those of the Hamburgh, of the most intense black, covered 
with a dense bloom, having a flavour to which no one can 
take exception, and ripening in a cool house as early as 
the Hamburgh. 

Alicante requires rather more heat to ripen it well; it 
does not hang in good condition so long as Lady Downe’s, 
but when in season is much to be preferred to that variety. 
It was exhibited in good order at South Kensington on 
March 1st, and gained the first prize against very excel- 
lent examples of that variety. 

Lady Downe’s is the variety generally grown along with 
Black Hamburgh, but to do it justice it requires rather 
more heat than the Hamburgh. It keeps better than any 
other sort of Grape; I have had it ripened in August, and 
kept it in pretty good condition until June. To keep well, 
the fruit must be thoroughly ripened; it ought to be ripe 
by the first week of September. A high night temperature 
is not required in all the stages of its growth; from 60° to 

No. 623.—Vou, XX. NEw SBRIES. 


F late years much has been written about | 


pretend to be, have recorded their matured | 
| surface twice a-day. Under such treatment nearly all the 


65° is a good temperature until the first flowers are observed. 


| to expand, when it should be increased to 70° by night, 


with a proportionate rise by day, say 15° more from sun heat. 
An atmosphere either too moist or too dry is to be avoided ; 
I generally allow the evaporating troughs to become dry, 
merely sprinkling the paths and syringing all the wall 


varieties of Grapes set well, and in the case of shy-setting 
sorts the bunches should be gently shaken twice a-day—at 
9 ant. and 1 p.m., which will facilitate the process. After 
the flowering period a lower temperature is advisable. 
Another peculiarity of the Lady Downe’s is the liability 
of the berries to scalding. ‘The time when most danger is 
to be feared from this is after stoning, and immediately 
before the Grapes show signs of colouring; a rather dry 
atmosphere, with abundant ventilation in the day, will 
entirely prevent it. As the Lady Downe’s Grape 1s gene- 
rally required to keep late in the spring, the berries should 
be well-thinned out, for if they are too close the bunches 
will not keep well. It is injurious to the Vines to allow 
the Grapes to hang till spring. I generally cut all the 
bunches in January, removing as much young wood as 
will allow the end of it to be inserted in a bottle of water ; 
if they are hung up in a frost-proof room, and the bottles 
filled with water as often as it is required—about once or 
twice a-week—the bunches draw up a large quantity of 
water. A few pieces of charcoal should be kept in the 
water to prevent its becoming offensive. Under such cir- 
cumstances the fruit will keep sound, and the stalk fresh, 
until May. I have had the bunches in tolerably good. 
condition in the middle of June, five months after they 
were cut from the Vine. : 

The Alicante is a very desirable variety. It is a mag- 
nificent Grape, requiring a rather higher temperature than 
that recommended for Lady Downe’s; it keeps in good 
condition until March, and is large in bunch and berry g 
its colour is the most intense black, and the berries are 
covered with a dense bloom. If you ask for the Alicante 
in the nursery it is just as likely as not that the Morocco 
will be sent. The latter is a good Grape, but not to be 
recommended for general culture. It does not acquire 
such a fine colour as the Alicante; the berries are of a 
different shape, being long oval, and when the two varie- 
ties have once been seen together there is no difficulty in 
distinguishing them from each other. ! 

Of white Grapes adapted for a cool house there 1s none 
as yet sent out so constantly good as the Black Hamburgh. 
Of sorts not having a Muscat flavour Buckland Sweet- 
water, when well grown, is a splendid Grape. It has been 
stated that this variety succeeds im a house not artificially 
heated, under such circumstances it has not done very 
well with me; the berries contain too much water, and 
decay very soon after they are ripe, whereas when the ; 
fruit is well ripened the berries are firm in the flesh, and | 
will keep for three months. I prefer to grow Buckland 
Sweetwater grafted or inarched on the Black Hamburgh. 

White Frontignan is a very good Grape with a distinct 
flavour much esteemed by some. The bunches are not 
generally of a large size, but the berries are rather above © 

No, 1175.—Vou. XLY., OLD SERIES. 


250 


the medium size; it is a very free-bearing variety, and in 
every respect preferable to the Troyéren Frontignan, which is 
inconatang, and the berries of which soon change to a bad 
colour. 

In the Golden Champion we were to have a white companion 
to the Black Hamburgh; it is not as yet universally acknow- 
ledged as such, although when well managed itis the best white 
Grape we possess not having a Muscat flavour. Some growers 
of it complein that it shows none or but few bunches; I have 
no fault to find with it in this respect; in the early vinery 
here a rod of it about 12 feet long showed one or two large 
bunches on almost every spur, and the bunches are as large on 
the old wood as on the new. It is like the Canon Hall Muscat 
in one respect—the flowers are too close together, so that it is 
well to thin a number of them out before they expand. 

Where if can be cultivated, there is no white Grape to equal 
the Muscat of Alexandria; it requires rather more heat and a 
longer period to ripen than any of the other sorts [have named. 
It succeeds well in the same house as the Alicante. When I 
was in a situation north of the Forth we found it necessary to 
start the Muscat house on the Ist of February, using artificial 
heat from that date, shutting up the house early in the day, 
and maintaining a night temperature of 50°, increasing to 
55° and 60° as soon as the Vines showed signs of starting into 
growth, and rising to 70° by the time they were in flower. In 
the south of England it is not necessary to start a Muscat 
house by artificial heat. I wait until the Muscats start 
naturally, which is abont the middle of March, when, if the 
weather is cold and unfavourable, a very little artificial heat is 


This temperature should be gradually increased until it rises 
to from 65° to 70° at night by the time that two leaves are 
formed beyond the first bunch, and when the first flowers are 
observed to expand a further increase of 5° is made. Under 


such treatment, in the south of England, Mascat of Alexandria | 


Grapes will be perfectly ripe by the first week of September. 
As a very late-keeping Grape there is to be found a very 
excellent variety in the White Tokay; it is not generally so 
large in bunch nor is it so robust in growth as the Trebbiano, 
but a large, close bunch is no recommendation in a late-keep- 
ing Grape. The Tokay requires the heat of a Muscat house to 
ripen it well, and this, of course, is against it; but where a 
late Grape is required not having a Muscat flavour, I would 
plant this in preference to any other white sort. For a cool 
house, to ripen with Lady Downe’s, there is the new white 


variety of that name raised by Mr. Thomson, of Dalkeith ; in | 


bunch and berry it is exactly similar to the black variety, except 
that the berries are perhaps larger and of a beautiful golden 
colour. It succeeds well under the same circumstances as the 
black kind. 

Nearly all the above varieties of Grapes are adapted for pot- 
culture, and for this purpose it is best to grow fruiting canes 
in one season from the eye. I have now most of the sorts I 


haye named, strong plants in 12-inch pots, showing three times | 
as many bunches as the plants could finish properly, and the | 


eyes were put in only thirteen months ago.—James Dovenas. 


ROSE FELIX GENERO—ROSE PRUNING— 
SYRINGING GRAPES, &c. 


I am sorry I ventured to impugn Mr. Radelyffe’s decision with 
regard to Felix Genero, asI presume lam the fast coach alluded 
to. In this case I rather think I was the slow coach and Mr. 
Radclyfie the fast. I merely said, if I remember rightly, that 
Felix Genero had not with me at all come up to the character 
which Mr. Radclyfie gave it, and having judged in several 
shows, I only once saw it exhibited last year (though, of course, 
it may have escaped my observation), and that was in twenty- 
four new Roses at Oxford, and I think, if 1 remember right, by 
Mr. Cranston. I hope I may be mistaken, and that it may 
come to the fore at the exhibition stands this year. It is cer- 
tainly hardy and a good grower, but—I will not enter into 
the buts—I have said my say on this point already, and time 
will prove who is right. - 

I can certainly endorse what Mr. Radclyfie says with respect 


to Baronne Préyost, Gloire de Vitry, Duchesse d’Orleans, and | 


M. de Montigny, as Iam slow coach enough to be sorry if old 
Baronune Préyost is discarded from the garden, and there are 


few better Roses of that shade of colour than M. de Montigny. | 
I haye always seen Souvenir de M. Poiteau very rough. I 


should like to know what the experience of others have been 
in regard to it. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB. 


[ April 6, 1871. 


In pruning Roses after this severe winter it is curious to 
notice how uncertain and unequal the effect of the frost is; in 
some cases succulent unripe growth has been quite uninjured, 
while old wood on the same plant has been killed. In many 
cases young strong buds have pushed from last year’s wood, 
while the old wood below is dead. In other trees old wood is 
alive and the young killed; but in by far the greatest number 
of cases the old wood has suffered much more than the young. 
By old wood I mean two or three years old, as I never, on 
Manetti stocks, allow older, for young and more vigorous wood 
pushes up each year from the base, and the old is cut away. 
Ihave hardly any injury on those shoots which pushed from 
the base last summer and autumn. The only Roses killed 
with me have been Céline Forestier, America, and Maréchal 
Niel, but they will all push again from the root. Maréchal 
Niel on its own roots seems to bloom freely in pots. I have one 
now in a 7-inch pot with seyen well-developed buds on it, all of 
which seem likely to open. 

I fully expected to be called over the coals for saying that 
syringing did not spoil the bloom of Grapes. I do not wish to re- 
commend the practice; I merely stated what was my personal 
observation. I have tried it with Mrs. Pince, Black Hamburgh, 
and Muscat of Alexandria, as well as with Alicante, and have 
not found any injury, and my object in stating my experience 
was that gardeners, who may be unlucky enough to have red 
spider or other insect pests, as mealy bug, on their Grapes, 
should not be afraid of the free use of the syringe. No doubt 
Mr. Simpson is right, that very good, and perhaps the best 


; | Grapes, can be secured with proper treatment without the use 
applied, so that the night temperature does not fall below 50°. | 


of the syringe, but I have seen many a house suifering after 
the bloom was set from want of it. Of course in cold and late 
houses it would never answer to try the experiment. Many 
persons, again, are afraid of syringing Grapes when they are 
in bloom, and recommend a dry atmosphere for the sake of 
the pollen. I haye never found syringing injure the setting 
of either Vines or fruit trees, so long as the temperature was 
not too low, and I know one of the best Vine-growers in the 
south of England, who is especially successful with pot Vines, 
syringes twice a-day all through ihe growing season. 

I am very glad ‘“‘C. C. HE.” has upset another horticultural 
fallacy with respect to wireworms. He told me his experiment 
some time ago, and I was in hopes he would publishit. Of 
all absurd crotchets it seems.the most absurd, to iancy a tough- 
skinned grub like a wireworm, which requires, as ‘-C. C. E.” 
says, a strong thumb nail, would “ kursten hissen”’ (as a York- 
shire man seys) with an overdose of rape cake. Even the frog 
in the fable could not surpass this feat. The only good rape 
dust could possibly do would be to give the grub something it 
liked to feed on, and keep it from other food, and also asa 
manure it might give the plant additional power to fight against 
the insects’ ravages. 

I am glad Mr. A. Kerr has spoken up in fayour of Golden 
Champion. With me it has made stronger growth the last two 
years than any Vine I have, and every shoot on the only plant 
I have is showing either one or two bunches. I fancy it re- 
quires an intermediate temperature, and will not stand either 
forcing or starving. Ivzipened five very fine bunches last year. 
It has certainly a decided tendency to crack, which may be 
obviated by nicking the stem of the bunch, so as to check the 
flow of sap. There are other Grapes with finer flavour, but I 
know none handsomer, and when well ripened it is a first-rate 
Grape. I know of no one who manages Muscat Hamburgh so 
well as Mr. Pearson. His bunches last year were wonderful ; 
but I dare not at present state weight or size, and hope Mr. 
Pearson himself will do so. His plan is to give plenty of leaf- 
action. I had the curiosity to measure a leaf of a seedling 
Vine in one of Mr. Pearson’s large houses; he cut it off 
the plant for me, it was 22} inches across the widest part, 
and 21 inches lengthways; and to give an idea of the size, I 
had a Times newspaper and rolled it up in it to take it away, 
and when laid on the full sheet of The Times it extended 
beyond it on each side either way i placed it, and very nearly 
touched the top and bottom at the same time. A sheet of The 
Times is about 24 inches by 20.—C. P. Pracu. 


THE GROS COLMAN GRAPE. 


I morrep this grand Grape from the late M. Vibert about 
twenty years ago. It is the largest of our purple Grapes, and 
when thoroughly ripe is exceedingly rich and good, keeping 
well till December or later. The slow progress that an unknown 
Grape, or any kind of fruit not English, makes is very rema:k- 


April 6, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


251 


able. I planted my first Vine of this sort in one of my hedge 
orchard houses. The climate was too cool, and it did not ripen, 
but its berries and bunches were enormous. It is only within 
these few years that its good qualities have been discovered. 


T tasted it last autumn in the vineries of Mr. Miller at Bishop | 


Stortford, and found it of high excellence. I have also heard 
of it from several growers as being very large and very good. 
Like all fine Grapes it requires a little heat.—Tuos. Rivers. 


WILD GERANIUMS. 


of plants, particularly in respect to their foliage. Such species 
as Geranium molle, lucidum, and columbinum, from their neat- 
ness of growth and extreme hardiness, are well calculated for 
winter and spring gardening. What we want in these Gera- 


niums are decided and striking forms of variegation which will | 
come true from seed; and these Geraniums are very prolific | 


in seeds, every one of which will vegetate. These species are 
of the easiest cultivation; the seeds may be sown in July or 


August, and the seedlings pricked out where they are to remain, | 


or potted singly in small pots and repotted as they may require. 
They are charming plants for the cold frame or greenhouse. 

Of Geranium molle I have found several very distinct varie- 
ties, but the best is Geranium molle aureum. It delights ina 
rich sandy soil, and looks well during the whole of the winter 
and spring. This plant was sent to a London nursery of note, 
but owing to my moving here I have been unable to inquire 
how it has been treated; however, it is a fine edging plant 
when managed as it ought to be. 

I have not yet discovered any variegated forms of Geranium 
lucidum through not having met with it in any quantity in a 
wild state. I have no doubt but numerous variegated varieties 
might reward some careful observer in the head quarters of 
Geranium lucidum. The whole family seem to me inclined to 
sport into variegation repeatedly. I shall never forget first 
meeting with Geranium molle aureum ; 2 nice little colony in 
the middle of a pasture field in Kent, amongst a host of the 
plain green-leaved variety, no doubt the progeny of a single 
plant growing there the previous season. I have had six dis- 
tinct varieties of Geranium molle, which I may call aureum, 
albo-reticulatum, striatum, luteo-striatum, marginatum, and 
one with a clouded or spotted foliage. Striatum only comes 
occasionally from seeds; the others seem to reproduce them- 
selves freely from seeds, but by far the best of allis G. molle 
aureum. 

Geranium columbinum I have also had with an irregular 
variegation, and it likewise comes occasionally true from seed. 

The only variation I have as yet noticed in the flowers of 
Geranium molle is a variety with white flowers. I must look 
out for one with larger petals than usual to breed from, for I 
find as yet Iam only at the beginning of the wild Geraniums 
of England.—W. E., Cromwell House. 


DINNER-TABLE DECORATION. 


Tur decoration of the dinner-table with beautiful plants is 
an art now receiving increased attention. It is my lot to have 
much of this kind of work at present. Ihave both on tables 
and elsewhere in-doors a fine display of showy Tulips, Crocuses, 
Cinerarias, Primulas, Azaleas, white Lilacs—which are very 
useful, and of which I have had a succession in small pots since 
about Christmas, in plants about 18 inches high and half that 
in diameter, and in full flower—Lily of the Valley, Epacrises, 
and Roses. Of the last I have a beautiful lot of little specimens 
of Tea varieties in 6-inch pots, and nothing can be finer for vases 
or most decorative purposes than their beautiful fresh foliage 
and eyer-pleasing flowers. I put these plants into a pit with a 
little bottom heat a little more than six weeks ago, giving them 
something like an average summer temperature, and as they 
advanced I kept them free of green fly by fumigating as soon 
as the insect appeared, and they have well repaid the trouble. 
When the larger plants were put into the different vases I 
usually decked their surfaces with the best green moss that 
could be gathered in the woods; but lately I have introduced 
with benefit into that material a lot of the smaller bulbous 
plants in flower, such as Snowdrops, Crocuses, &c., and carrying 
out the same plan in plant stands for the other rooms has also 
been of advantage. Round the edges of the stands, where we 
could not put in a pot plant, a pot of Tulips, for instance, was 
taken, the bulbs singled out, and these put in all round amongst 
the damp moss. 


It is of too frequent occurrence that stands which have to be 
filled with plants for the rooms have but very little space for 
good-sized pots with plants in them, and under these circum- 
stances I have at a former time frequently put in flowering 
spikes of Tritomas, Gladiolus, and heads of Eucharis amazonica 
in bottles of water hidden amongst the moss, so as to make the 
best arrangement with the other things. 

In carrying out the work of decorating the dinner table in a 
satisfactory manner it is indispensable to have a good collection 
of growing plants to choose from. This, of course, will be 


| regulated according to the different seasons in which they are 
Tu wild Geraniums of England are a very interesting family 


required. Our last season, so to speak, began with, and has 
continued since, the beginning of winter. Our best plants then 
were Weatherill’s Solanums, Gesnera exoniensis and G. ma- 
crantha, which were really beautiful. Soon after these I had 
Azalea amcena, a fine-coloured species, and although its flowers 
are not large, they are produced in great numbers. Itis a first- 
rate plant for general decoration, and forces well. All the 
winter we had nice pots of Iresine, which, with its transparent 
red colour, has a beautiful effect at night. We had also a 
collection of Ferns to choose from, though flowering plants 
were most in demand, and the best of these we found to be the 
common stove Maiden-hair, Adiantum cuneatum, Nephrolepis 
pectinata, and Lomaria gibba. As soon as the new year came 
in Thad pots of Lily of the Valley. Shortly afterwards came 
in a host of the other spring-flowering bulbs. Towards 
February I was using pretty little plants of bright Rhododen- 
drons with large heads of flower, Thyrsacanthus, Dielytras, 
successions of Lily of the Valley, and some of the other plants 
already named. Now we are using good-looking little plants of 
the common Hydrangea with large heads of rosy flowers. We 
have also in vases young specimens of fancy Pelargoniums well 
flowered, plants of the native Primrose procured from the 
woods, Violets lifted from the open border, and, as I always do, 
I try to make the best of the materials around me. Much can 
be done in this way—more than most people imagine. 

In making up glasses of cut flowers, some of which have 
always been on our table, I have lately, in the case of some 
of the spring-flowering bulbs, been putting in perfect speci- 
mens—that is to say, with their leaves as well as flowers, 
end it gives a much better appearance than when the glasses 
are filled with flowers in the ordinary way. There is some- 
thing in the leaves of a plant accompanying its flower which-can- 
not be well described. A Rose, for example, never looks so well 
as when accompanied with Rose leaves.—Ropert MackELbar. 


TWO HINTS FOR FRUIT-GROWERS. 


I am not a fruit-grower, have no wall, and the only thing to 
which I can lay any pretension in the shape of fruit culture 
is a miniature fruit garden, for which I am indebted to my 
friend Mr. Rivers; but ‘‘ nihil horticulturanum a me alienum 
puto,” which freely translated means, ‘‘I never turn up my 
nose at anything connected with gardening,” and asI generally 
walk about with my eyes open, I occasionally light upon some- 
thing which not only interests me but may be found useful to 
others. 

I was the other day at Petworth, Lord Leconfield’s noble seat 
in Sussex, and had a leisurely walk through the garden with 
my good friend Mr. Jones, than whom I know not a better 
specimen of what a thoroughly good English gardener ought to 
be. Well, it is not much of a time to be gardenising, butin an 
establishment like this there is always something to be seen; 
and I can safely say that I have never seen two such houses as 
the early Peach and Grape house. The Peach trees are trained 
over an arched trellis, and others are trained against the back 
wall; all the trees were evenly cropped with fruit about the 
size of a pigeon’s egg, and would be ready in May—not a red 
spider to be seen, notwithstanding the vast amount of fire heat 
required in such a winter as the past to bring trees so forward. 
Mr. Jones attributed this result in a great measure toa plan 
I have seen nowhere else. Hurdles were placed over the pipes 
which run round the house, and of course underneath the Peach 
trees which cover the trellis; on these hurdles was laid a good 
thick layer of short hotbed dung, and this was watered two or 
three times a-day; the heat from the pipes passed up through 
it, a gentle moisture charged with ammonia was produced, and 
as a consequence red spider could not exist. Now I do not 
mean to say this was the sole reason of the fine appearance of 
the trees, but I believe it had something to do with it, and may 
be worth recording by those who have similar work. 

In regard to out-door fruit, the protection of walls from earl 


252 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 6, 1871. 


spring frosts is a matter of great importance, but the expense 
and trouble of doing it deter many, while there is the danger 
of leaving the cover up too much, and go coddling the trees. 
Mr. Jones’s plan is simply to place long poles in a slanting 
direction against the wall, and on these to fix horizontally about 

~ a foot apart loosely-twisted straw ropes, roughly done, so that 
the straws project, and sometimes nearly pass from one rope 
to the others.” This is left on at all times. I can testify that 
Apricot trees covered thus suffered nothing during those severe 
days we had the week before last, and that it is a simple, cheap, 
and effective proteciion to wali-fiuit trees when in blossom. 
—D., Deal. 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 


Aprin 5TH. 

AurHoucH not one of the principal shows, there was on this occa- 
sion a peculiarly attractive display, not so much of the subjects for 
which prizes were offered as of those not specially invited. The Roses 
formed the chief attraction, and the lovely banks of these rivetted the 
attention of every visitor, and of such there were many. They hada 
beauty, a freshness, a charm all their own. The splendid plant of 
Rhododendron arboreum, noticed last week, formed the brilliant 
centrepiece to the whole. 

Class 1 was for six distinct Odontoglossums. The only exhibitor 

~ was Mr. Bull, who had a first prize for O. Alexandre Triane, O. tri- 
umphans, O. cordatum, O. gloriosum, O. luteo-purpureum, and a 
variety of O. nebulosum. The plants were not large, but in good 
bloom. 

Cyclamens were shown in Classes 2 and 3, the former being for col- 
lections unlimited as regards the number, the latter for collections of 
twelve. Mr. Goddard, gardener to H. Little, Esq., Cambridge Villa, 
Twickenham, was first with a collection of upwards of one hundred 
pots, many of the plants forming fine masses of blossom, and several 
of the varieties very beautiful in colour. The second prize went to 
Mr. Edmonds, of Hayes Nursery, who had also a numerous collection ; 
and the third prize to Mr. James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., 
Isleworth, who was also first for twelve in profuse bloom, Mr. Goddard 
being second. For six Cyclamens shown in Class 4, Mr. Goddard was 
first and Mr. James second. 

Cinerarias came next in order in the schedule. The best nine came 
from Mr. Lacey, gardener to C. S. Mortimer, Esq., Wigmore Park, 
Dorking. These were compact, well-grown plants, not large, but full 
of bloom. Compactum, with a white eye and broad rosy purple edge ; 
Delicatum, white, with a narrow edge of the same colour; Ne Plus 
Ultra, purplish crimson self ; and Empress were the most noticeable. 
Mr. James, who was second, had Blue Bell, always conspicuous by its 
beautiful dark blue colour, and Miss Smith, a pretty blue-edged free- 
flowering kind. 

Class 6 was for six Amaryllids, Mr. Baxter, gardener to C. Kieser, 
Esq., Broxbourne, the only exhibitor, taking .a first prize with Olga, a 
beantiful pale crimson variety edged and streaked with white; Robert, 
bright scarlet; and four other kinds which do not call for special 
remark. Mr. Baxter also exhibited a fine collection of seedlings, 
among which Kieseri, blood red, and Duke of Cambridge, scarlet, were 
striking. 

For boxes of six hardy Primroses, shown in Class 7, the first prize 
was withheld, and a second was given to Mr. Ware, of Tottenham. 
Golden Chain, yellow with an orange eye, was very free-flowering. 
Among the others were the double white and double lilac varieties of 
Primula acaulis. 

In Class 8, for six bulbous plants in flower, Mr. Ware had a. first 
prize for the blue Grape Hyacinth, yellow and red Crown Imperials, 
Triteleia uniflora, the pretty little Narcissus juncifolius, and Fritillaria 
pyrenaica, with pendulous bell-shaped flowers, dull purple mottled 
with yellow on the outside. 

The miscellaneous subjects were very numerous, and of them the 
magnificent collections of Roses shown by Messrs. Veitch, William 
Paul, Panl & Son, and Lane & Son, constituted a show of themselves. 
We shall not attempt to mention the names of the varieties of which 
fine examples were shown—they were so numerous, including most of 
the well-known kinds. Charles Lawson in Mr. W. Paul’s collection 
was most splendid, perfection in bloom and freshness of colour. Facing 
this was another fine plant of the same variety from Messrs. Veitch, 
with Madame de St. Joseph, very fine, just beneath it. Marquise de 
Mortemart in Mr. W. Paul's collection was exquisite, and Beauty of 
Waltham and Mdlle. Marie Rady were also remarkably fine. Mr. 
Williams, of Holloway, sent a collection in which were Palms, with 
Chamedorea Ernesti-Augusti bearing its catkin-like inflorescence, 
several Orchids, Tillandsia Lindeni, Camellias, and several other 
plants. Messrs. Lane sent Rhododendrons and Azaleas in pots, to- 
gether with cut blooms of the same, and of Roses. Irom Mr. Turner, 
of Slough, came a fine basket of Mrs. Headly Golden Tricolor Pelar- 
gonium, together with baskets of Mrs. Turner, Mr. Rutter, and several 
other kinds ; also collections of Alpine and Show Auriculas bloomed 
in his usual excellent style. 

Messrs. Veitch sent a fine miscellancous collection, including Den- 
drobium Farmeri and the Golden D. chrysotoxum in fine bloom, to- 
gether with several other fino Orchids, Anthurium Scherzerianum 
with large and extremely brilliant spathes, the white Rhododendron 


Sesterianum, &c. Mr. Needle, gardener to the Comte de Paris, sent 
three boxes of Ophrys and Orchids, including numerous species. For 
this fine exhibition we believe the award of a Lindley medal has been 
recommended to the Council. Mr. Robert Veitch, of Exeter, sent hig 
White Azalea Lady Poltimore, forming a fine pyramid of bloom. 
Messrs. E. G. Henderson, of St. John’s Wood, sent Rudgea macro- 
phylla with large heads of its white flowers, which it appears to pro- 
duce freely. From Messrs. Rollisson, of Tooting, came Epacris hya- 
cinthiflora carminata, a free-flowering variety ; a collection of Alpine 
Auriculas ; and a collection of Palms, stove and greenhouse plants, 
and Orchids—among the last, Arpophyllum squarrosum in fine con- 
dition. Mr. Bull also sent a collection of Odontoglossums, including 
O. Pescatorei and Ceryantesii, likewise a miscellaneous collection 
of Palms, Orchids, stoye and greenhouse plants, fruiting Aucubas, 
&c. Mr. Noble, of Bagshot, sent a collection of his beautiful new 
Clematises—as Miss Bateman, white, very fine; Albert Victor, 
bluish lilac ; Lord Londesborough, a very distinct slaty purple, with a 
bronze-red band in the centre of each segment. Mr. Ware exhibited 
six double Wallflowers in excellent bloom, Dielytra spectabilis well 
grown and bloomed,. Spirea japonica, and a collection of spring 
flowers. Extra prizes were awarded to uearly all the above exhibitors. 
Mr. Baxter, gardener to C. Kieser, Esq., sent Tropolum tricolor 
trained on a flat trellis, in fine bloom; Messrs. Standish & Co., of 
Ascot, a box of very fine blooms of Maréchal Niel Rose; and Mr. 
Williams a specimen plant of the large-fiowered Mignonette admirably 
grown. 

Special certificates were given to Mr. Needle for his collection of 
terrestrial Orchids; to Mr. Turner for his collection of Zonal Pelar- 
goniums ; to Mr. Williams for his group of plants, also for his plant 
of Mignonette; and to Messrs. Standish for their box of Maréchal 
Niel Rose. —= 


Fruir Commrrrre.—G. E. Blenkins, Esq., in the chair. Mr. Lockie, 
gardener to F. W. Berger, Esq., Court Gardens, Great Marlow, sent 
six Cucumbers Blue Gown. Mr. Cadger, The Gardens, Luton Hoo, 
sent two handsome seedling Cucumbers, which were considered by the 
Committee of good quality ; but a desire was expressed that the variety 
should be shown in a younger state. Messrs. Carter & Co., of High 
Holborn, also sent a seedling Cucumber, named Marquis of Lorne, 
28} inches long. The same gentlemen also sent specimens of the 
Sandringham Celery, which in the opinion of the Committee is the 
same as that which is known as Turner’s Incomparable White and 
the Blane Court of the French. 

Mr. Fowle, gardener to Sir H. Mildmay, Bart., Dogmersfield, sent 
two dishes of Strawberries, one of which was President and the other 
Dogmersfield Seedling. A special certificate was awarded to them. 
Mr. Cadger, The Gardens, Luton Hoo, sent a dish of Keens’ Seedling 
Strawberry, and Mr. Sage, of Ashridge Park Gardens, also sent a dish 
of the same variety. Both of these were very meritorious examples of 
cultivation, and both received a special certificate. ; 

Mr. Hepper, gardener to C. P. Millard, Esq., The Elms, Acton, 
sent two Queen Pines in pots. Mr. C. M. McCrow, The Gardens, 
Nash Court, Faversham, sent a nice specimen of Ripley Queen Pine 
weighing about 4 lbs., which received a special certificate. 

Prizes were offered for the best braces of black-spined, white-spined, 
and smooth Cucumbers. The best black-spined were a fine pair of 
Blue Gown, about 2 feet in length, from Mr. Lockie, gardener to 
F. W. Berger, Esq., Court Gardens, Great Marlow. The second prize 
went to Mr. Douglas, gardener to F. Whitbourn, Esq., Ilford, for the 
same variety. he first prize for white-spined went to Mr. Lockie 
for Gillett’s Recruit, the same exhibitor also sent Berkshire Challenge. 
Telegraph from Mr. Lockie and Mr. Douglas was first and second in 
the smooth class. 

For salading, Mr. Hepper, gardener to C. P. Millard, Esq., The 
Elms, Acton, was first with a varied assortment, some forced, some not, 
consisting of Celery, Endive, Lettuces, Australian, Curled, and Water 
Cress ; Dandelion, Radishes, Mustard, Beet, Sorrel, Tarragon, &e. 
Mr. Record, gardener to the Marquis of Salisbury, Hatfield House, 
was second with Telegraph Cucumber, Endives, Lettuces, Radishes, 
Mustard, and Cress. 

Fuoran Comamrree.—Robert Fortune, Esq., in the chair. Mr. J. 
Linden, of Brussels, sent a specimen of Odontoglossam Hallii with 
two fine spikes of large flowers, for which a special certificate was 
awarded. A special certificate was also given to Mr. Stevens, gardener 
to G. Simpson, Hsq., Reigate, for a magnificent plant of Dendrobium 
fimbriatum oculatum, clustered with rich yellow and dark crimson 
flowers. Mr. Green, gardener to W. Wilson Saunders, Hsq., sent Lycaste 
fulvescens blooming yery freely; also a variety of Odontoglossum 
nebulosum nearly white, with orange spots in the lip. From Mr. 
Ware came an Iris, the species of which was doubtful, and named 
iberica on the Continent. It appears to be Iris pumila. Messrs. 
Carter & Co. exhibited a pan of Peristrophe angustifolia aureo-varie- 
gata, showing its beauty for bedding purposes. Messrs. Veitch sent 
Darlingtonia californica in flower, a singular North American Pitcher- 
plant, extremely difficult of cultivation. A special certificate was 
awarded; also from the same firm came Amaryllis Meteor, a glowing 
carmine, most splendid in colour. Messrs. Bell & Thorpe, Stratford~ 


| on-Avon, exhibited Rhododendron Jenkinsii, closely allied to R. Dal- 
| housiw, bearing numerous trusses of its large white and pale pink 


flowers. ‘This was remarkably fine, and received a special certificate. 
From the same firm came garden labels formed of an alloy of 90 parts. 


April 6, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


253 


of zine and 10 parts of lead. These are said to be very cheap and 
durable. A basket of a dark kind of Polyanthus called Early Ad- 
mirable came from Mr. Porter, gardener to E. Benham, Esq., Isle- 
worth. It appears to be free-flowering. Mr. Record sent berries of 
Aralia japonica from the gardens at Hatfield House; and G. F. Wil- 
son, Hisq., Weybridge, a plant of Fritillaria imperialis grown by Mr. 
Turner, nurseryman, Walton-on-Thames, showing fasciation of the 
flower stem to a remarkable extent. 

Messrs. Rollisson & Sons had a first-class certificate for Torenia 
auriculefolia, a pretty little plant with light blue, white, and. orange 
flowers. A similar award was made to Mr. James Atkins, of Pains- 
wick, for Saxifraga valdensis, a pretty, very dwarf, almost Moss-like 
species, with white flowers; also for Cotyledon spinosum, forming a 
beautiful, very regular rosette, and the plant is perfectly hardy. 

Mr. B. S. Williams, of Holloway, sent a variegated form of Deutzia 
gracilis; also Amaryllis Prince Henry, a variety of good form, cream 
white, feathered with purplish crimson. To thisa first-class certificate 
was given, and a similar award was made to Messrs. Paul & Son for 
Climbing Victor Verdier Rose. A number of seedling Cinerarias 
were shown by Mr. George Smith, Messrs. F. & A. Smith, and cut 
flowers by Mr. Marcham, gardener to EK. Oates, Esq., Iver, Bucks. 
No awards, however, were made. Mr. Jones, gardener, Buckhurst 
Hill, exhibited several new golden and other Coleuses ; and Mr. Lee, 
Arundel, forcing Pink Princess Louise, a showy red variety. 


Gryerat Meerinc.—J. Bateman, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. On 
this occasion no less than fifty-three new Fellows were elected. The 
Rev. M. J. Berkeley having read the Committee awards, called atten- 
tion to a cut specimen of the Jonesia Asoca of ‘‘ Paxton’s Flower 
Garden,” to which Saraca indica is given as a synonym, and to that 
name of Linneus he believed Bentham and Hooker had gone back. 
The plant figured in the ‘‘ Flore des Serres” appeared to have more the 
habit of a Brownea, to which Jonesia is nearly allied, but there were 
five or six kinds of Saraca in Java, and probably the plant of the, 
“Flore des Serres” was one of these. The gentleman who had the 
finest collection of Browneas in the kingdom was Mr. Crawford, of 
Lakelands, Co. Cork. Mr. Berkeley then produced specimens of the 
Wellingtonia from the Marquis of Huntley’s, at Orton, near Peter- 
borough, showing that the tree was undoubtedly moneecious, the male 
and female flowers being found on the same individual. Mr. Lee, of 
Clevedon, had sent, but too late for the Fruit Committee, a box of 
Morels in beautiful condition, and it was remarked, of those sold in 
the shopsa great many came from Cashmere. A Chinese Primula, 
with all the petals green and leaf-like, and metamorphosed in almost 
every conceivable manner, and a Calla «thiopica brought by Mr. 
Reeves, with the leaf assuming the colour and character of a spathe, 
were next pointed out as morphological curiosities. 

Mr. Berkeley remarked, with reference to Mrs. Lloyd Wynne’s prize 
for Narcissus, that it had been given this year to a collection of varie- 
ties of N. Tazetta, which was not her intention, as her object was to 
bring together species, not mere varieties. She had again offered the 
same prize, but for species, and as these could not be all shown at one 
meeting, it was proposed to commence at the next one and to continue 
the competition to the first April meeting next year, cut specimens to 
be admissible. 

Major R. Trevor Clarke expressed a hope that in the future a prize 
given for a special scientific object, would not be given to bulbs to be 
found in eyery seedsman’s window. 

Mr. Bateman congratulated the meeting on M. Linden, of Buussels, 
having sent Orchids for exhibition, and trusted that Belgian horticul- 
turists would follow tho initiative. M. Linden’s plants had come too 
late for the previous meeting, and, with the exception of Odontoglossum 
Hallii, had not improved ; of it, however, the specimen was the finest 
he had ever seen. There had lately been some controversy as to how 
Odontoglossums should be grown. A writer had recently stated that 
they were always found growing in moss, and he had no difficulty in 
lJassoing them from the trees, whilst with other Orchids it was fre- 
quently necessary to cut off the limb, and sometimes to cut down the 
tree. His own conclusions were—Ist, that they should be kept gene- 
rally cool; 2nd, that it did not do to put them on blocks, but that they 
should be potted and covered with moss; and 3rd, with regard to heat, 
that experience alone must decide, a few degrees making all the dif- 
ference between healthy and unhealthy growth, between life and 
death ; and he instanced a case in which during the late winter out of 
a collection of Orchids half a dozen were killed. These came from 
Costa Rica, whereas they had been supposed to be from Peru. 

With regard to Vanilla, referred to at the last meeting, he had 
hoped to have been able to glean more information than he could 
offer in answer to Mr. Hanbury’s letter. He had found that the best 
Vanilla had long and comparatively thin pods, and there was an in- 
ferior kind with pods like Bananas. He remembered that in this 
country J. Dillwyn Llewelyn, Esq., of Penllergare, used to grow 
Vanilla to great perfection. There were other plants, however, which 
yield scents similar to the Vanilla; for instance, a species of Cypri- 
pedium from Chiriqui had pods more fragrant than the true Vanilla, 
and instead of scrambling over a house, would yield when only half a 
yard high. 

Mr. Berkeley remarked that nowhere had he seen Vanilla so success- 
fully grown as at Lord Fitzwilliam’s, where it was superior even to 
that of foreign production. He mentioned also in connection with the 


subject of sweet-scented plants, that lately he had seen children in the 
woods picking Violets not with the stalk, but merely the heads, and on 
inquiry he found that these were for sale to the chemists and druggists. 

Major Clarke, having been asked for his experience on Vanilla, said, 
though accustomed to crossing plants, he neyer could get it to sel. 
He believed there were bad-sctting varieties, for he had set V. plani- 
folia year after year without result. 

The proceedings closed with the announcement that the next meet- 
ing would be held on the 19th inst., when there would also bea bazaar 
in aid of the French relief fund. 


ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY’S MEETING. 


Tue March Meeting of this Society was held at Burlington House, 
the chair being taken by Mr. A. R. Wallace, the President. The 
Baron Selys-Longchamps was elected a Foreign Honorary Member of 
the Society. 

Mr. J. Jenner Weir exhibited a small collection of Butterflies from 
Madagascar. It did not contain any new species. Mr. Butler, with 
reference to the question as to the effect of mountains in limiting the 
range of species of insects or their varieties, exhibited distinct varieties 
of the Butterfly Cenonympha Satyrion, which he had taken on the 
Sppesite sides of the Gemmi Pass in Switzerland, at Lenk and Kan- 

ersteg. 

Mr. I’, Smith exhibited some small branches of young Ash trees 
communicated by the Rey. Mr. Hellins, from which the bark had been 
stripped in various parts by Hornets. He stated that the paper of 
which Hornets’ nests are composed varies in its strength, being some- 
times quite tough, but that it is always made of decayed tinder-like 
wood. Reéaumur had observed the same fact, and had considered that 
the bark was removed, not for building purposes, but to enable the 
insect to get a supply of sap for food. 

Mr. Dunning exhibited species of the bird Louse which infests the 
peacock, and which he now finds is named Goniodes faleicornis, al- 
though Linneus had more correctly applied to it the name of Pediculus 
Pavonis. 

Mr. Lewis exhibited some monstrosities occurring in Lepidopterous 
insects, in which the antenne differed in size in the same insect; also 
a Noctua satellitia, in which the right antenna was entirely wanting. 
Mr. F. Smith communicated a statement he had met with in a work 
of travels affirmative of the luminosity of Fulgora, recorded in the 
“Reveu Zoologique”’ for 1844. Dr. Sharp sent some notes on British 
species of Oxypoda, a genus of Rove Beetles; and Mr. A. Miiller an 
account of some galls made by a species of Cecidomyia upon the leaves 
of Campanula rotundifolia received from Glasgow. 

Mr. Lowne read a paper ‘On Immature Sexuality in Insects,” 
which he had written in consequence of haying observed in the Holy 
Land wingless specimens of a Grasshopper, which he considered as 
productive larve. Hence he was induced to think that species origin- 
ated occasionally from the maturity of the sexual organs before the 
acquirement of the adult characters, in consequence of the early develop- 
ment of these organs in the embryo and larva. He further stated that 
in his opinion the larva and pupa were states of development which 
had been acquired during a long series of ages, and added, in the dis- 
cussion which took place, that possibly ten millions of years ago insects. 
were developed in their perfect state !—a proof that in the mind of Dar- 
winian naturalists development is not always identical with progress. 

Mr, Briggs detailed experiments which he had made upon Liparis 
dispar and B. Crategi, with the view of determining whether the 
numerical proportion of the sexes, and even the sex itself, were depen- 
dent upon the alimentary treatment of the caterpillar. Such suppo- 
sitions were, however, completely negatived by his observations. 


DerataH or Baron HucEen.—This gentleman’s name is associated 
with so many plants, that it will be familiar to many of our readers. 
He was founder of the Imperial Society of Horticulture at Vienna, and 
was Austrian Ambassador to the Court of Belgium. His death has 
recently been announced. 


ORMSON’S PATENT SYSTEM OF HOTHOUSE 
VENTILATION. 


Waar a triumph it is for British horticulturists to bring 
under artificial culture in an unfavourable climate the denizens 
of the sunny south to greater perfection than they attain in 
their natives climates—to make them yield flowers finer and 
more abundantly, fruits larger and richer in flavour, than in 
their native lands! The Vine bears freely in the open air in 
France and Germany; Spain, Portugal, and Italy are highly 
favourable to it, but’ who ever saw Spanish, or Fortuguese, or 
Italian Grapes equal to, or even approaching, those from Combe 
Abbey, Garston, Dalkeith, or Castle Kennedy? Who ever saw 
West Indian Pine Apples equal either in size or flavour to those 
grown in many an English and Scottish garden? And yet all 
this, and much more, is done despite the rigours of frost and 
the gardener’s still more dreaded enemy damp. It is possible 


254 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 6, 1871. 


to guard against the one by using more fire heat, and happily 
where that is most wanted there the necessary material is 
generally to be found in the greatest abundance, but much fire 
heat brings with it the necessity for much moisture, otherwise 
numerous evils follow in its suit, and in any case, and especially 
in the latter case, ventilation must be insured. 
that ventilation may be simply to afford a supply of fresh air, 
without which plants, like animals, cannot live, or it may be 
to dry up damp, or lastly, it may be to lower the temperature; 
but whatever be the object, there can be no question that the 
admission of large bodies of air is extremely injarious to plants 
growing in an atmosphere heated to a great degree above that 
of the external air, as in hothouses in winter. Accordingly 
great care has to be taken in ventilating at that season to 
avoid exposing the plants to sudden chills and draughts, 
much watchfulness of the weather has to be exercised to seize 
favourable moments for admitting air, and many devices are 
adopted to prevent that air striking directly on the inmates of 
heated structures. It is sifted through netting or wirework, 
and made to pass over the hot-water pipes or other heating 
surfaces, and it has even been carried by air drains through 


heated borders, before being allowed to come in contact with | 


the foliage. By such means, with care and judgment, excellent 


results have been obtained, but still an efficient mode of winter | 


ventilation, one which would render the cultivator tolerably 
independent of the state of the weather, has long been a de- 
sideratum, and this Mr. Ormson, of Chelsea, claims to have 
achieved. Last July he exhibited at Oxford a model of his 
system, which was noticed at the time in the pages of this 
Journal, and which was highly epproved of by those who saw 


it. It was, however, only a model, though sufficient to show | 


the principle, but now he has erected at his works at Stanley 
Bridge a house of which the following is a brief description. 
The dimensions are not 2 matter of consequence, as they, of 
course, may be varied according to circumstances ; however, 
the length of the lean-to is 28 feet 2 inches, the width 16 feet 
9 inches. The rafters, 4 feet apart, are hollow, to carry off the 
heated air to ventilators in the back wall, the amount permitted 
to escape being regulated at will. The hollowin the rafters is 
concealed by an iron grating of an ornamental character, through 
the perforations in which the heated air passes. The whole is 
glazed with large squares of very strong glass, that which Mr. 


Ormson employs for such houses being 32-0z. The squares in | 2 ‘ 
front are 2 feet wide by 19 inches long, those in the roof about | Whole system of embellishment by flowers in rooms needs 


1 foot 10 inches by 1 foot 9 inches, and they overlap about a 
quarter of an inch ; grooves in the rafters and sash-bars carry 
down the condensed moisture to a gutter in front which is en- 
tirely concealed; and in glazing the whcle of the putty is 
under the woodwork, and, therefore, not exposed to the action 
of the weather. The house is very light, from the large squares 
and small amount cf woodwork employed, at the same time its 
appearance is elegant, and it is evidently very strong. The 
great features, however, are the means of heating and venti- 
lation. Summer ventilation is secured by the front sashes 
opening outwards simultaneously by a rod and lever arm, and 
similarly those at the apex of the roof are lifted up by a lever 
with a balance weight, which is so adjusted that the touch 
of the finger will open the whole of them to any extent. 
aed balance weight is intended to be concealed beneath the 
oor. 

At is, however, the method by which ventilation is secured iu 
winter that constitutes the important difference between this 
house and all others. The heating medium in front consists 
of hollow cylinders 3 feet long, with an outside diameter of 
1 foot, and an inside diameter of 6 inches ; the hot water cir- 
culates in the interval, the heating surface being more than 
equal to that of four 4-inch pipes. The circulation is main- 
tained by 3-inch pipes connecting the cylinders with each other. 
We now come to the mode of admitting air in winter, which, 
aiter the foregoing explanations, will be easily understood. 
Passing from the centre of each cylinder is an airway to the 
outside, into which the external air can pass on a sliding yen- 
tilator, similar to those used in railway carriages, being pushed 
back. The cold air has therefore to pass through the centre of 
the heated cylinder and up among the four connecting pipes 
before entering the house, and can be heated to such an extent 
that fresh air may be admitted without perceptibly lowering 
the temperature. Moreover, it is not admitted in a direct 
current, but is forced to take a course at right angles to that by 
which it enters the cylinders, again to pass out of these at 
right angles, and then, being in the centre of the intervals 
between the rafters, must turn laterally right and left before 


The object of | 


| Scillas, and other beauties—but we have no Violets. 


| Hyacinths. 


passing up the hollow of the rafters to the ventilators in the 
back wall, which are opened and closed together by a rod. 

In addition to the heated cylinders in front, ordinary piping 
is used to obtain the requisite temperature, the quantity of 
such piping employed at any time being regulated by valves; 
and to afford the requisite amount of moisture, evaporation 
troughs are provided, both on the cylinders and ordinary piping. 


ADVICE TO YOUNG VIOLET-GROWERS. 


Wit1 you tell me and my sisters how to grow Violets? We 
have had for more than two months lots of Crocuses, Hya- 
cinths, Tulips, Cinerarias, Primulas, and other early-spring 
flowers in-doors, and our spring flower garden is already be- 
ginning to look bright with Hepaticas, Primroses, aR 
This 


seems a mistake. A friend of ours brought us the other day 2 


| nice bunch of Czar Violets, plucked from the open ground, 


and they filled our sitting-room with such a delightful per- 
fume, that since then we have determined to try to grow them. 
Last autumn we bought a few plants of Russian Violets, put 
them in pots, and placed them in a pit where we keep our 
Geraniums in winter, but they have all died. We did not 
mean them to die, but they did. Can we grow them from seed 
in the same way as we grow mixed Pansies for our flower gar- 
den? We believe our ‘‘old Gooseberries,” which we hope to 
preserve for a long time to come, will tell us in their usual 


| good-natured way the best way to proceed.—Saran Ann, Chars, 


anp Amy ALICE, Geranium Cottage, Beulah. 

(Oh! for a peep in and about Geranium Cottage in the 
delightful region of Beulah! We daresay our good friends 
may wonder, but it is no less a fact, that for something like a 


| month past, though rejoicing in, we have been heartily and 


actually weary of Violets. We love them dearly in moderation 
—delight to inhale their odour as we pass by solitary plants or 
eyen borders of them; but it is anything but a pleasure when 
vases and vessels of various forms are to be filled with them 
in a confined place, to be scattered afterwards in large rooms. 


| Eyen there our opinion is that itis very easy to have too much 
| of even a sweet perfume. 


We have a strong belief that sweet- 
scented flowers in rooms, or, indeed, flowers of any kind, that 
are not growing in a healthy manner, are injurious. The 


thorough examination. What more common on festive occa- 
sions than to find rooms unduly crowded with plants and ever- 
green wreeths, as if the crowds of reasoning beings did not 
enough pollute the air which for the time they were forced 
to breathe. We haye been obliged to go into the open air 
when dressing epergnes with lots of Violets. A few will ever 
be agreeable, and do no injury—masses of them in a confined 
space are very trying to many people. We have no doubt our 
readers will know well how to enjoy the rich scent without being 


| injured by too much of it in a limited space. 


There is a great diversity in different individuals as respects 
scent. We have known some who declared that their hichest 
idea of luxury would be to lie among a mass of full-blossomed 
We never could manage to regulate a good-sized 
bed in full bloom without experiencing a headache. 

One word here as to Violets, and especially to those who 
love their rich perfume without its being at all overpowering. 
Keep the flowers dry, and let them dry in a shady place. The 
flowers will become like mummies, and still the scent will re- 
main. We have known clothes mildly scented for from six to 
twelve months by a few dried Violets. When gathered Violets 
are placed in water, they will retain their apparent freshness 
long after the scent is gone. They will actually have a scent 
the other way, even when they look seemingly fresh. As stated 
above, fresh blooms dried will retain their sweet scent for 
months. 

We mention this because the best plan for haying a moderate 
scent of Violets in rooms is to have a few blooming plants in 
a window, where they can enjoy the sunlight. Cut flowers, 
and even sweet-scented plants, set in shady places—entrance 
halls, staircases, &c., are sO many sources of unpleasantness 
and disease to the human residents. We feel for plants in 
such positions, much as we should for a man deprived of light 
and pure air. A small posy of Violets will be very pleasing 
where a greater number would be nauseating and depressing. 

But to our task. We cannot tell how the young ladies failed 
with the Russian Violet, except it be that they killed it from 
oyer-kindness. It requires a certain amount of intelligence 


April 6, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. ‘ 


Bis) 


wo 


for people to act on the fact that too much nursing is as danger- 
ous to some plants as too much cold and exposure are to others. 
It could not be such ignorance on the young ladies’ part. Of 
all Violets, there are none sweeter to us than the retiring blue 
and white sweet blooms, though small, that in many places 
are found on our hedgebanks and woodlands in spring. This 
may be partly owing to the fact that we never see such retir- 
ing sweetness without thinking of the times when in our young 
days we timidly presented a carefully culled posy to the bright- 
eyed maiden we dearly loved, and dreamed about bundreds of 
times, without ever being able to summon up the courage to 
say a word of the love which we felt. Ah, there have been to 
numbers of us many a monitor to conscience, many a green 
spot in memory, many an incentive to keep a youthful ever- 
green heart within us—even though we are now, as our friends 
tell us, becoming ‘‘ old Gooseberries ”—that have been the con- 
sequences of agencies that the agents themselves never knew. 
The next sweetest, though individually small, is the Russian 
Violet. It may be raised from seed; in general it comes very 
true, and in a bed we have seen thousands of seedlings self- 
sown. The only objection to them is that they do not bloom 
so early or so profusely as plants raised from cuttings of 
runners, or, better still, by division of the plant. We would, 
therefore, advise procuring some plants, either now or as soon 
as they are out of bloom, then tearing the large plants to pieces, 
and planting every bit which has a little root, say 4 inches 
apart, in rich, rather light loamy soil, shading them a little till 
they are growing freely, and afterwards giving all the air and 
sun possible, with waterings when necessary. Such plants in 
a mild winter would produce flowers all the winter. Here let 
it be remarked, however, that though it would require a strong 
frost to injure the plants, a frost of no great keenness will rob 
the blooms of their scent: hence, when an opportunity offers, 
every alternate plant in the rows, and every alternate row, 
might be taken up and planted under glass, or potted in 4 or 
5-inch pots,for the window. Ifthis is not done, and the blooms 


are valued, they must be protected with mats, &e., in severe | 
The plant is so hardy that scarcely anything | 


frosty weather. 
will much injure it, except excessive moisture. We have a bed 
that will do little good until late, if then, from being twice 
flooded during winter. We put a bank up to prevent the water 
from a slope of gravel flowing over it, but the mischief was 
effected before we did so. We had plenty more, otherwise we 
should have missed them. 

On raised banks, wherever there is no stagnant moisture, the 
Russian Violet will flourish, but it likes change of soil. 
the whole it may be said to do best the second season; but 
little pieces planted in April, attended to during summer, and 
free irom excess of moisture in autumn and winter, will pro- 
duce in abundance in the following winter and spring. From 
such plants, say from 5 to 6 inches in diameter, we would 
hardly venture to say the number of scores of blooms we have 
counted in March. To have the flowers large for the sort, the 
plants should not remain long in the same ground—not more 
than two years, though moderate-sized flowers may be obtained 
from plants that have so stood for a number of years. Keep- 
ing in view what is said above of the effects of frost on the 
scent, we have often been surprised at the number of gather- 
ings which could be had from one or two lights in a frame or 
pit filled rather closely with small plants which had been well 
exposed during the previous summer. We do not know of any 
sort that will yield in winter and early in spring such a quantity 
of bloom in a small space, and the scent is rich, though the 
individual flowers are small. 

The next best Violet, in point of earliness, and far superior 
in size, is a triple-sized Russian—The Czar. The whole plant, 
leaves as well as flowers, is much larger, and the plant is 
equally hardy, though with us if-does not bloom in general so 
early; but out of doors we had some gatherings at the end of 
February, and we have had them fine throughout March. We 
had some in a cold pit that did tolerably well in winter, though 
the quantity of flowers would not equal that from the Russian. 
Besides the size and richness of the bloom, the strength and 
length of the stem or footstalk of the flower is a great ad- 
vantage, With all lovers of the Violet it is well worthy of a 
place, planted out in a cold pit or in pots for the winter, to 
precede those out of doors. It is very common to have under 
glass large flowers on footstalks from 6 to 8 inches long without 
other artificial heat than the glass covering—a matter of im- 
portance when using mixed flowers for an epergne or vase. We 
have noticed no seedlings of The Czar coming naturally, and, 
indeed, we haye not noticed any seed pods, though that might 


On | 


| Czar. 


be owing to not looking for them; but here, as in the case of 
the Russian Violet, we would advise obtaining a few bulky 
plants, and from April to May tearing them into as many 
pieces as it is possible to make, with a little bit of root attached 
to each. The pieces which have no roots should be placed at 
firs} under a hand-light. Plant the former 6 inches apart if 
you purpose to take up every alternate row, and every aiternate 
plant in the row left, to be potted or put under glass. This 
kind wants at least a foot of space when allowed to grow in the 
open ground, as the plant is a free-grower. Little pieces 
planted out last May a foot apart nearly cover the ground now, 
and have yielded in great abundance. This kind succeeds best 
in a rich rather loamy soil; and if our soil were light we would 
not only give it a fair portion of manure, but we would make 
it as firm as possible. One of our contributions to the garden- 
ing of the hereafter would be this idea, of consolidating soil light 
and sandy, and manure top-dressing. By so doing we could 
grow plants having that preference whilst securing many of the 
advantages of a compact loamy soil. We have had The Czar 
blooming beautifully in pots, taking up the plants in October 
with good balls, and potting them firmly, not loosely ; but, like 
most Violets, it will not stand much heat. Our short expe- 
rience would lead us not to keep it longer than two.years in 
one place. Our actual practice has been with one-year-old 
plants—that is, the little bits of last May have flowered most 
freely this spring, and those under glass moderately in a cold 
pit in winter. But for the dark winter, they no doubt would 
have done better. The litter over the glass was several times 
not removed for three weeks. A good plant in a 6-inch pot, 
potted in October and protected until the New Year, ought to 


| yield many fine blooms in a window after the middle of Feb- 


ruary. 

Of white Violets, after trying a number of single and double 
varieties, we have actually fallen back on what we consider to 
be the single white of the hedgerows. We have just now 
(March 25th) a short row, 15 inches wide, a white cloud of this 
sweet-scented variety, and it comes in well to relieve blue and 
lilac kinds. Cultivation greatly improves the common white. © 
The flowers range between the sizes of the Russian and The 
It, too, is the better of frequent changes of soil, and 
may be easily increased by runners and division. All the 
double whites which we have been able to see and grow have 
been rather dirty in their white, have not bloomed freely, or 
had very short, slender footstalks. 

We lately stated that we had not seen the many new Violets, 
and requested information respecting them. Since then a 
gentleman highly praised a double one, The Queen, and sent a 
couple of pot plants, small, but showing flower. What it will 
be when it has more room to show itself we cannot say, but 
the flower at present, though double, is a sort of mixture of 
white, pink, and grey—neither one thing nor another. How- 
ever, we cannot give a character to it, for if fairly tried it may 
be a very fine variety, and worthy of its name. The flower 
promises to be about the size of the Double Blue. 

Of all hardy double varieties, the Double Blue is perhaps the 
best. There are many varieties of it, such as the Tree Violet, 
the flowers smaller and more orbicular in form than the old 
blue, which has flowers flatter and larger. So far as the tree 
form is concerned, one can make eyery kind of Violet into a 
tree Violet by growing the Violet to a single stem from 4 to 
10 or more inches in height, and leaving a head like a littie 
Palm or tree Fern. These do best in pots, and well treated 
with rather clese loam and rich manure produce blooms freely. 
Out of doors this fine double blue Violet does not flower so 
early as the Russian or The Czar. It will always repay the 
attention given toit. It is greatly improved by fresh quarters 
every two or three years, and a loamy or compact soil well en- 
xiched with decayed manure. Anything like standing moisture 
is its abomination. When well cultivated, the flowers of this 
kind are large, and are valuable for distillation, also, as already 
stated, for drying. For bouquets and vases the shortness of the 
flowerstalks is a drawback, but great quantities of rich-scented 
blooms may be obtained from a small space. It is propagated 
by runners, but best by division of the plants. ' 

With regard to our favourite, the lilac Neapolitan, to succeed 
well out of doors it requires a warm place, free from stagnant 
moisture. It is well worth the protection of a cold pit or 
frame. It will do very fairly for two years, but it succeeds best 
when the plants are taken up, divided into little pieces, planted 
say 8 inches apart in rich loamy light soil, watered during the 
summer, not 2 single runner allowed to grow, and then the 
plants taken up and potted firmly, or planted firmly in a bed 


256 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ April 6, 1871. 


of rich soil in October or November, with glass sashes over 
them. This rich Violet does better in a cold pit than in a 
window, though of all Violets it stands a little forcing best. 

If some of our’readers can further help our Geranium 
Cottage correspondents we shall feel obliged, and the more 
especially as we know but little of the new Violets, though as 
anxious to know about them as if we were not confirmed ‘old 
Gooseberries.” | 


SOME PREDATORY INSECTS OF OUR 
GARDENS.—No. 6. 


GARDENERS, like anglers, ought, I think, to be meditative 
men. In their occupation there is nothing that need put 
them in a hurry, and many departments of horticulture give 
abundant opportunities for thought; yet it would not do for 
them to be pondering too frequently over their insect enemies, 
seen and unseen. How the gardener thinks about the latter 
will depend very much upon his natural temperament. He 
may, if of a genial disposition, congratulate himself that it is 
a very good thing some of those insects that are most trouble- 
some in the garden are not visible, and are chiefly known by 
their results, because, as they could not be effectively reached 
and operated upon, it is just as well not to know annoyances 
which cannot be remedied nor effectually checked. But if he 
be of a pensive cast of mind he may ruminate over insect pests 
until the seen effects of their jaws seem as nothing compara- 
tively to the ravages which may be going on through the 
agency of insidious enemies lurking in the twig, or within the 
curled-up leaf, or burrowing in the ground to‘devour the root and 
bulb, or emerging therefrom at night to work, side by side, 
with snails and the like upon the young leaves and the buds. 
Nay, carrying the reflection a little further, he may drop a tear 
amongst his early Lettuces as he considers that this is very 
nearly the same thing that occurs in human life, where a man’s 
worst enemies are so often found not to be those who openly 
oppose him, but those who as neutrals or as seeming friends win 
his trust, or at least do not awaken his suspicion. But let me 
not moralise any farther. I should not, perhaps, have fallen 
into this strain had not my attention been called this very day 
to a tolerably well-known garden enemy, which we really 
cannot somehow be angry with in spite of the harm it has 
done us. 

Making a ‘‘ tour round my garden ”’ I observe just now that 
sundry branches and twigs on my Currant bushes give evident 
marks of the destructive influence put forth by the caterpillar 
of the Currant Clearwing (Sesia Tipuliformis). It is only now 
and then that this 
caterpillar will ac- 
tually kill a bush, 
though I have 
noticed some die 
which have had re- 
peated attacks made 
upon them through 
a series of years. 
The effect to be 
generally noted is 
the dying-off of 
certain branches, 
the rest of the bush 
flourishing, and ap- 
parently not having 
its fruit-bearing powers at all interfered with by the insect ; for, 
indeed, were the boughs mined by the caterpillar to die off at 
once, it would be unfavourable to the continued existence of 
the species, since its nutriment is only the living pith. Nor, 
so far as my own observations go, do the shoots in which it 
has penetrated die the year in which they have suffered; I 
believe that they manage to put forth leaves the next season, 
and perhaps another. The Black Currant, it is notorious, 
suffers more from the attacks of this Clearwing than do the 
Red and White Currants. I have some suspicions that it may 
occasionally be found mining in the canes of the Raspberry, as 
the moths not unfrequently settle on Raspberry bushes. When 
it has once gained a footing in a garden this species is not 
easily eradicated. In Chelsea it has been well known for many 
years, and some of the earliest recognised British specimens 
were taken there. I have seen signs of its presence, however, 
in various market gardens about London. Many localities 
have been named throughout England and Scotland ; whether 
it occurs in Ireland I cannot gay. 


Sesia Tipuliformis. 


I used to imagino that the eggs were deposited by the females 
on the terminal twigs, but recent observations do not confirm 
this, the mines of the young caterpillars being seen in a 
variety of positions, and at all ages they may be found working 
both upwards and downwards in the shoots and boughs, it being 
noticeable that they prefer the latter as they increase in size. 
At the commencement of the winter the caterpillars are small; 
they continue, however, to feed throughont the cold season 
with little or no intermission. Under certain circumstances 
they will mine down a twig or branch which hes been tenanted 
before by a more juvenile individual, or by an individual of the 
preceding year; this is, however, unusual. Some tracks will 
be found in which a caterpillar has worked along for a time, and 
then turned and retraced its course. The external air these 
caterpillars have a decided objection to, nor do they ever 
emerge in order to migrate from one bush to another, as is said 
to be the case with some internal feeders. 

Ordinarily, the caterpillar of the Currant Clearwing is pre- 
pared to become a chrysalis by the end of April; I have seen 
seasons when the change has been much later, through growth 
having been retarded by a chilly spring, but even then the moth 
was not at the usual time. This year I find the species is 
pretty forward, considering the length of the winter, though 
there are some differences of size amongst those I have turned 
out of ‘‘ house and home.” Not a particularly pleasant-looking 
caterpillar, certainly, white and flabby, yet of a form adapted 
to its tunnelling life. 

Tho chrysalis is most usually placed at some node, and a 
portion of the wood is removed by the caterpillar ere it changes, 
only such a film being left as the chrysalis can force its way 
through, the segments being furnished with hooks ; and throngh 
the hole it makes when the moth is ready to emerge the empty 
case is left as a relic, and an intimation to the gardener that 
the particular individual has done his work and taken himself 
off to enjoy the June sunshine. The moth, indeed, is not at 
all moth-like, the transparent wings and slim body, coupled 
with the circumstance that it delights to fly in bright weather, 
would lead many to suppose it some species of fly, and at the 
same time it so happens there are several species of Diptera 
on the wing rather resembling it in appearance. Though fond 
of sunshine, this insect takes short flights, and it is notable 
during their season how soon a passing cloud will make all the 
moths settle down on the Currant leaves. Occasionally in the 
evening specimens will come to flowers, but this is not a fre- 
quent occurrence. Rarely do they fly far from the bushes in 
which they have been bred. A singular account appeared in 
one of our entomological journals some years ago, stating that 
a number of these moths had been taken ina kitchen. The 
only explanation in this case, if the name was correctly applied, 
must be this, that somewhere adjacent to the place indicated 
chippings of Currant bushes had been put, and from these, 
which had contained pupe of the species, moths emerged at 
the usual time. The only way to check the ravages of this 
Clearwing is to capture as many of the moths as possible, and 
the sooner after their appearance the better, ere the females 
have had time to deposit eggs. 

There is another species of Clearwing not at all infrequent 
in some of our London suburbs, and which is pretty generally 
distributed in the south of England. This is the Red-belted 
Clearwing (Sesia Myopzformis), and as it appearsin the winged 
state at or about the same date as the preceding, they may be 
sometimes seen sporting together in our gardens. This species 
has a red belt, which at once separates it from the Currant 
Clearwing with its yellow bands. Another red-belted species is 
known, however, a feeder on Birch wood, occurring in different 
spots from Myopeformis, and being a larger species. I should 
hardly have supposed that the species before us could have 
done material injury, but a market gardener assures me that 
in his orchards to the south of London in certain seasons these 
moths are numerous enough to afiect the fruit-bearing powers 
of some of the Pear and Apple trees there. That they actually 
kill trees, or even saplings, I do not believe; the latter do not 
seem to be usually objects of the attack. The caterpillar, 
like that of Sesia Tipuliformis, lives from antumn to spring, 
and feeds with little or no intermission. When occurring on 
Pear trees.it is found most frequently in the wood of the trunk. 
Newman states that he has seen ‘' between sixty and seventy 
in a pieco of Pear-trea wood about 3 inches long,” so that they 
must be pretty closely packed sometimes. Jeeding on the 
Apple, it prefers the branches. I do not see that any effectual 
means could be devised for destroying the caterpillar of this 
species, and the moth is not go easily netted as its relative. 


April 6, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


257 


The Lackey Moth (Bombyx Neustria) passes the winter in the 
ege state. Each mother moth deposits her eggs in one batch 
in the form of a ring round a branch of some tree or shrub 
where they defy all changes 
of weather, through their 
being coated with a sub- 
stance secreted for the pur- 
pose. An _ entomologist 
who has dissected this moth 
found in the lower part of 
the body two pear-shaped 
‘glands, filled with a liquid 
secretion; this flows out 
by degrees as the eggs are 
deposited, and envelopes 
them. Itis quite insoluble 
in water. In the centre of 
each egg is a depression, 
out of which the caterpillar 
issues soon after the first appearance of leaves in the spring. 
The shells of the eggs remain, not being eaten by the young 
caterpillars, as is the case in other species. 

The Lackey caterpillar shows little or no inclination to attack 
the produce of the kitchen garden ; in former years, however, 
it was very injurious in orchards, and occasionally an unweleome 
visitor to wall-fruit trees; the unpleasant webs are also to be 
seen extended upon various shrubs in gardens, especially where 
they are flanked by Hawthorn hedges. It is even said to feed 
on the unpalatable leaves of the Laurel. Now, from many 
places we find it reported that the species is scarcer than 
formerly ; near London there are few localities where it occurs, 
though once very abundant in its vicinity. I fancy the species 
has of late shown a tendency to increase, and a season or two 
favourable to its development would be very likely to render 
the ‘lackeys”’ so troublesome as to necessitate their destruc- 
tion in spite of their beauty, for they are really handsome 
creatures when nearly adult. The body is striped with black, 
white, orange, and blue. On the head are two spots just in the 
position we generally expect the eyes of an animal would oc- 
cupy ; they are not these organs, nevertheless, the eyes being 
small and unnoticeable. This caterpillar is also clothed with 
black and rust-coloured hairs. Directly a brood have issued 
from the egg they unite their labours in the construction of a 
web, at first, perhaps, so small as only to occupy the top of a 
twig. Then they migrate a short distance and spin a larger 
tent of silk, or sometimes, instead of migrating, they content 
themselves by inereasing it, so as to embrace within it other 
twigs which may happen to be within reach. This habitation 
serves them for a shelter in bad weather; contrary, however, to 
the practice of some others, when casting their skins, they do 
not retire within it, but fix themselves on the exterior, in order 
to throw off their old garments, which remain attached to the 
web. Bonnet’s description of a party of these ‘ lackeys ” issu- 
ing from their nest is rather imaginative. ‘An agreeable sight 
is it,” says he, ‘‘ to see several hundreds marching after each 
other in straight lines, others in curves of various inflection, 
resembling from their fiery colour 2 moving cord of gold stitched 
upon a silken ribbon of the purest white; this ribbon is the 
carpeted. causeway that leads to their leafy pasture!” 

After the last change of skin the caterpillars scatter, and 
each feeds alone. Shake a bush on which they are feeding, 
and on which you will notice that when in repose they lie quite 
extended, and down they fall, not rolling into a ring, but im- 
mediately regaining tLeir feet endeavour to regain the branch 
they left. The cocoon is very much of the size and shape of 
that of the silkworm, though the silk is of a very different 
nature, and intermingled with a yellowish powder. The chry- 
salisis hairy like the caterpillar. The moths are not on the wing 
in July and August, and they have an insane partiality for im- 
molating themselves in lights when these are accessible. Un- 
questionably the best way to diminish the number of the cater- 
pillars of this species is to seek out and crush during the winter 
the sufficiently conspicuous zones of eges.—J. R. S. C. 


Bombyx Neustria. 


CUCUMBER CULTURE. 


I was very glad to read Mr. Sage’s excellent notes on summer 
Cuacumber-growing. I know no one better qualified to write 
with authority on this matter, for I have seen the practice he 
describes carried out in its integrity season after season with 
invariably the same results—vigorous, sturdy, short-jointed 
growth, an abundant and continuous succession of perfect fruit 


fully developed, and foliage so healthy and green up to the day 
the plants were destroyed, as to cause one to regret the neces- 
sity for their removal. 

Supplementary to Mr. Sage’s paper, I wish to offer one or 
two observations concerning the soil most suitable for Cucum- 
bers, and its application. Young Cucumber plents are fre- 
quently encouraged to make a luxuriant growth as quickly as 
possible. This is done by subjecting them to a brisk, close, 
moist temperature, and by letting the roots ramble into a large 
quantity of soil at once ; the result of this treatment is generally 
a few fine fruit at first and afterwards a few occasional imperfect 
fruits, but nothing like the steady supply, increasing in quan- 
tity, and of that uniform excellence throughout to which proper 
treatment leads. Now, as Mr. Sage has clearly shown, the 
right method of culture is not at all difficult, for the practice 
which he followed in the stove at Surrenden is applicable in 
principle to Cucumber culture in all other kinds of houses. 

From certain instances of failure which have come under my 
notice I am led to conclude that young Cucumber plants are 
frequently planted in soil of a close heavy texture, which, placed 
in large quantities over the medium for supplying bottom heat, 
gradually settles down into an inert sodden mass, almost im- 
pervious to the action of the air, therefore unfit to promote 
healthy root action, and so the plants soon lose their pristine 
vigour, becoming sickly unsightly objects, fit only for the rub- 
bish heap. It may be thought I have quoted an extreme case 
—it may be go, but such instances are by no means uncommon ; 
and as such faulty practice can only lead to disappointment 
and annoyance, it must be best to understand the evil and 
apply its remedy. 

The soil, then, for Cucumbers should be of a coarse fibrous 
character, broken roughly to pieces and given to the plant in 
just sufficient quantities to maintain its vigour unchecked. If 
this rule be followed no rich stimulants will be required until 
the plants become somewhat exhausted, when, as Mr. Sage hes 
explained, dressings of pure rich manure sre substituted for 
the fibrous soil, and even these dressings are carefully applied, 
not in overwhelming quantities, but in layers of moderate 
thickness. 

Given to the plants thus, soil never can become sour; the 
multitude of roots seize hold of every varticle of it, acting as a 
capital index of the plants’ requirements, for, as the soil be- 
comes crowded with roots, these may be seen on all sides peer- 
ing out of the soil with a pert inquiring air, asking for more 
food in an unmistakeable manner. 

It is frequently stated in seed catalogues that certain kinds 
of Cucumbers are fine exhibition varieties; but these are in 
most instances just the sorts to avoid. What we want is abun- 
dance of crisp fleshy fruit, growing about 1 foot in length, nnd 
not much piven to seeding. Cucumbers are not generally giown 
to be looked at; they are not sent to table entire, but are sliced 
up and handed round in readiness to be eaten, therefore the 
kind producing fruit freely and of a sufficient size for such a 
purpose is the best. Masters’s Prolific is a sort which fulfils 
these requirements better than most others; so truly prolific 
is it, that when well grown its fruit is produced in clusters of 
two and three at every joint, and every fruit becomes fully 
developed. To those who prefer larger fruit I can recommend 
Pearson’s Long Gun as an excellent variety in every respect.— | 
Epwarp LockEvrst. : 


NEW BOOKS. 


Handbook of Hardy Herbaceous and Alpine Flowers. By 
W. Surpernanp. W. Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh and 
London. 


“ Herpaceous and alpine.plants have been so long banished from 
gardens of all grades, that they have become unfamiliar to those even 
who once knew them well; and the mass of those who have embraced 
gardening as a business pursuit or a means of recreation within the 
past twenty-five or thirty years, have had few opportunities for ac- 
quiring any but the slightest knowledge of them of either a practical 
or theoretical kind. For until within the past few years, so little 
general interest had been taken for long previously in these old useful 
tribes of plants, that even the periodical press, on which we depend for 
guidance in our tastes and objects, has rarely been encouraged to 
make any but passing allusions to the introduction of new species, 
while the names of the older ones have been of the rarest occurrence 
in its pages. There are, however, many signs of a reaction in their 
favour at the present time.” 

All this is quite true. We are well pleased to notice the 
reaction, and Mr. Sutherland ig the right man to promote it. 
He is gardener to the Harl of Minto, and formerly he was 


258 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 6, 1871. 


manager of the herbaceous department in the Royal Botanic 
Garden at Kew. He has a ‘‘bias ”—a fondness for herbaceous 
plants, yet he is not prejudiced against other tenants or arrange- 
ments of our borders. He observes— 


“* Any unbiassed mind will, however, admit that ‘ bedding-out’ was 
a step, and a long one, in the way of progress, and that it still con- 
tinues to advance in that path in the hands of those who understand 
its value best, and keep its proper aims in view, notwithstanding loud 
asseverations to the contrary from many quarters. It is undeniable 
that it is the most artistic style of garden embellishment that we can 
practise in our climate; and that, had its adoption been limited in 
every case by considerations of fitness and harmony with contingent 
circumstances, we should have had little reason to complain of the 
vulgarity and sameness and deprivations that a too inconsiderate prac- 
tice of it has entailed. 

““ Experience has, however, taught many that the exclusive adoption 
of ‘bedding-out’ in their case was a mistake; that it was never 
adapted to either their requirements, means, or tastes ; and that along 
with its adoption came a limitation of enjoyments. Many have come 
to see that a fashion in flower gardening, unless it is expansive, and 
adapted to gratify the craving for flowers at all times which is inherent 
in every mind, is an error, and ought to be curtailed.” 

There is no doubt that herbaceous plants may be employed 
in the massing of flowers, and Mr. Sutherland annotates wisely 
on this and on their adaptability to spring flower gardening 
and in mixed flower borders. He enters fully into the modes 
of propagation and culture, and concludes with a systematically 
arranged descriptive list of the species, and a copious alpha- 
betical index. In one of his sections he says— 

‘Harmony of colour and harmony of form, and agreeable contrasts 
of both, are of equal importance in mixed planting as in massing. 
An outrage of the one or the other may be more easily discernible in 
the latter style than in the former, but if often repeated it will have 
the same bad effect, although the cause may not be always easily 
defined.” 

He offers some good advice upon this point, but a still faller 
assistance will be obtained from the next volume we are about 
to mention, and we recommend our readers to purchase both. 


Manual of the Science of Colow, &c., with Coloured Frontispiece 
and other Illustrations. By W. Brnson, &c. Chapman and 
Hall, London. 


One extract will show the practical use of its contents, but 
it enters fully into the science of the subject, although a small 
volume. 

“Rule VII.—Gradatins, Contrasts, and Single Colours should 
correspond.—There should be a correspondence or equivalence be- 
tween the gradations and contrasts which occur in the different parts 
of the composition. If there is only one colour which is striking for 
its depth or clearness, that colour should occupy the middle parts to 
which the eye is naturally mainly directed, so that it may form ba- 
lancing gradations and contrasts with all the less striking colours 
around it; or else it should surround the less striking colours as a 
background to them, so as to form the like gradations and contrasts 
with the less striking colours towards the middle. At any rate it should 
be disposed so as to secure in some way or other a certain symmetry 
of colours in the diifereat parts of the composition. 

‘‘ The advantage of this may be easily seen by comparing the effect 
of a composition in which this rule is attended to with that of another 
of the same colours with which it is disregarded. 

“Again, if there are two or more striking colours, they should be 
disposed so as to balance each other across or around the central parts 
of the composition, either by one or both of the colours being repeated 
on each side of the middle, or by one being on one side, and the other 
on the other. 

“Landscapes, where the clear colours on the sky are retiected from 
water in the foreground, afford approximate examples on the former 
variety ; while landscapes, where those clear colours are matched by 
the deep reds, greens, or other hues, and dark shades of the foreground, 
do the same for the latter.” g 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 

TrstimoniaL To Mr. W. THomson.—In our advertisement 
columns to-day will be seen an announcement of a movement 
to demonstrate how much appreciated is one of the best of 
gardeners, and of truly worthy men. He fally deserves it. 


— Puant Ais Acaryst Smann-pox.—At a time when the 
small-pox is so prevalent, and vaccination has become, so to 
speak, fashionable, it is surprising that we do not hear some- 
thing of the many reputed remedies of foreign countries, either 
as a cure for this disease or as an eradicator ofits effects. The 
Sarracenia purpurea is well known for its supposed eflisacy, 
and it was even introduced into this country eome few years 
back. Bata plant not so well known in Europe is the Melia 


» Azadirachta, L., of India, the leaves of which are used by the - 


natives to cover the bodies of patients recovering from small- 
pox, as they are supposed to prevent the mark becoming per- 
manent. Dr. Wright says of this tree that ‘‘ the leaves beaten 
into a pulp, and externally applied, act like a charm in re- 
moving the most intractable form of Psora and other pustular 
eruptions.” —(Nature.) 

—— Uses or Sawpusr.—The sawdust of various woods is 
now turned to good purpose. That of box wood is used for 
cleaning jewellery, whilst mahogany sawdust is employed for 
smoking fish. Birch and rosewood sawdust is used by furriers 
in cleansing furs. In Paris, common sawdust is very in- 
geniously utilised. A method has been discovered of forcing 
the material into solid moulds by the aid of heat and the hy- 
draulic press. The sawdust thus pressed is said to present a 
brilliant surface which possesses great durability. Logwood 
chips, as is well known, are used by the manufacturers of fine 
fruity British port wine, 1 1b. of logwood chips going to twenty- 
six gallons of cider, together with Elderberry juice and other 
horrors.—(Builder.) 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

As the time for sowing the principal crops of winter and 
Spring Broccoli and Greens has arrived, select, if possible, an 
open piece of ground rather poor than rich, let the seed be 
sown thinly, and when the plants are large enough to handle, 
prick them out in similar soil. A crop of Globe Artichokes 
should now be planted for producing a late supply. The side 
shoots should be taken from old stools, and planted in lines 
4 feet apart and 18 inches between the plants, or trenches may 
be dug 18 inches wide and the same in depth, and some well- 
decomposed manure should be dug into them, and the plants 
put out as above. Seedlings of Cauliflowers, Cabbages, dc., 
raised this spring should be pricked off when large enough, to 
get stocky for final transplanting. Sowing the main crop of 
Carrots should no longer be delayed if the ground is in good 
order. Continue to make periodical sowings of the different 
culinary vegetables of which a successional supply is required. 
Spinach should be sown once a-fortnight, and Peas, Beans, and 
Turnips once in three weeks. Sowings of ull Salads should be 
made with strict regularity, and proper attention should be 
paid to protecting all kinds of seeds from the ravages of birds 
and insects. In sowing Peas, it is the most workmanlike 
method to put the stakes to them at once, as by so doing the 
barren appearance of the ground is removed, and no more 
trampling onit is necessary for a long time ; besides, they afford 
a slight shelter to the young plants on their first appearance 
above ground. If the crops of Onions, Leeks, Parsnips, Beet, 
Salsafy, and Scorzonera are not yet sown, doing so should be 
no longer delayed. A sowing of tall Kidney Beans may now be 
made in early localities; the early sowing of this useful vege- 
table is frequently cut off by late spring frosts, but when this 
happens the ground skould be left undisturbed, as that part of 
the plant beneath the surface of the soil generally throws up 
shoots from which a crop will be produced nearly as soon as if 
the leaders had remained uninjured. 

FLOWER GA..DEN. 

Look well to recently-transplanted trees and shrubs. Do not 
allow anything to suffer from want of water at the roots, but 
one good soaking after planting to settle the soil will be snfii- 
cient in most cases until we have more sunshine, The soil 
should be kept moist but not saturated or run together by oyer- 
watering them at the root. Patches of some of the more showy 
of the hardy annuals should now be sown in the vacant places 
which usually exist in the herbaceous beds, and at the edges of 
clumps and borders in the shrubbery. Among the many kinds 
adapted for this purpose, I may mention the following :— 
Double Poppies of various colours, Lupines, Sunflowers, African 
and French Marigolds, Godetias, Erysimum, Clarkia, Gilia, 
Collinsia, Silene, Eschscholtzia, Nemophila, Nolana, Kaul- 
fussia, &c., not forgetting the old favourite Mignonette. A 
sufficient quantity of cuttings and seedlings of half-hardy 
climbers should now be potted for planting out in May. With 
such plants as Cobmwas, Maurandyas, Lophospermums, Calam- 
pelis, Loasas, and Tropolum canariense many bare places on 
the walls and trellises which otherwise would be blemishes on 
the general appearance of the place, may be covered and made 
ornamental. Violets are everybody’s flowers, and to have them 
fine and in abundances they require and will merit some share of 
attention, particularly where they do not naturally succeed well, 


April 6, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


259 


In some situations they grow so strongly and flower so abundantly 
that they merely require at this season to be taken up, parted, 
and replanted, and if kept free from weeds all will go well; while 
in other places they frequently cause more trouble than a col- 
lection of Auriculas or Polyanthuses. A frame on the north 
side of a wallis the most likely situation for preventing the 
attacks of red spider to which they are very liable, and which 
cause them to lose their foliage during the winter. About the 
beginning of September they should be planted in a frame upon 
a spent Melon or Cucumber bed, where they will have time to 
become well established before winter, and if frost is excluded 
and plenty of air given at all times, perfect success may be 
expected. 
GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Where hardy shrubs are annually forced select the most suit- 
able when removed from the houses, and give them some kind 
of temporary shelter to gradually harden their foliage. Those 
cramped for pot room shift into large pots, using rich turfy 
loam; towards the end of the month plunge them in an open 
situation in order that the wood may ripen early. From having 
been previously forced these will bloom earlier than new stock, 
of which a portion should every year be pctted to replace 
plants become useless for further work. After they have done 
flowering, cut down and place in a cold frame the most choice 
kinds of Cinerarias in order to produce suckers, and put in a 
stock of Chrysanthemum cuttings for autumn display. 


As) 


spring-flowering plants for the stove and for cutting I know of | 


none more useful than Begonias. Now will be a good time to 
begin with a stock for next season’s display. As they go out 
of bloom allow them a short rest in a rather dry house, where 
they may be partially disrocted and repotted, pruning in any 
straggling shoots. Keep them close and syringe frequently, 
when they will soon commence growing. Abundance of light 
and a tolerable share of pot room are necessary to insure fine 
plants. 
then be given. Keep specimen plants in beds or borders pro- 
perly supplied with water at the roots, and see that everything 
is clear of green fly and other insects. Heaths and other hard- 
wooded greenhouse plants should be potted as they require it. 
Generally speaking, the most suitable time is after they have 
done flowering and commenced a new growth, but the operation 
may be performed with propriety at any season when the roots 
are making progress without being induced to do so by unna- 
tural excitement. Before potting take care that the old ball is 
sufficiently moist, for if it is potted in a dry state it will be 
impossible afterwards to moisten it properly without souring 
and saturating the new soil. The Epacris family is now so 
numerous, so beautiful, and so valuable for winter flowering, 
that for country establishments they outrival Heaths. 


kept rather close and moist until they have commenced fresh 
growth. As soon as the flowering is over the future shape of 


the plants should be adjusted by removing a portion of the old | 


As the plants advance liquid manure may now and | 


Let | 
them have all possible attention in repotting, and let them be | 


flowering stems, that their energy may be devoted solely to the | 


growth of the plant. 


Let climbers both in pots and borders — 


have due attention with regard to training, and retain no more | 


shoots than the allotted space will afford room for. A succes- 


sion of Achimenes intended to flower late in the autumn skould | 


now be placed in heat and treated according to the directions 
given in former calendars. Some of those of former successions 
may be potted in suspended baskets, for which A. longiflora 
and cupreata are particularly adapted. Pans or broad shallow 
pots are preferable for their general cultivation, and, as they 
require an abundant supply of moisture when they are in flower, 
let the drainage be very perfect, that they may be freely watered 
without stagnating the soil. Besides the permanent plants in 
the conservatory, many choice plants in pots will be required 
to keep up a succession of gay flowers throughout the summer. 
Among the finest for this purpose are Brugmansias, Erythrina 
Crista-galli, Thunbergia, Stephanotis, Mandevilla suaveolens, 
Allamanda, Hchites, Achimenes, Ipomeas, with Heaths and 
Pelargoniums. Let these have all possible attention, and bring 
them forward in several lots, so that one set may succeed 
another. Pay particular attention to the Lilinms now in pots 
by giving them a liberal supply of water and by neatly staking 
them. A top-dressing of turfy peat, sand, and well-decomposed 
cow manure will be of great benefit to them, and they will be 
very useful for conservatory or drawing-room decoration late in 
the autumn. Let Fuchsias, which are very useful for summer 
and autumn flowering in the conservatory, be repotted as they 
may require in rich compost, watering them occasionally with 
liquid manure. Nearly all the varieties have a tendency to 


form conical bushes, and by a very little attention they may be 
guided into this appropriate form. One strong shoot should 
be selected to form a leader, and should be trained perfectly 
upright, the remaining shoots being regulated by stopping any 
which are growing more luxuriantly than is consistent with the 
proper shape of the plant. 


PITS AND FRAMES. 

Lose no time in potting off or pricking out into frames or 
boxes young cuttings as soon as they are sufficiently rooted, 
and seedlings as soon as they will bear handling. As the 
potted-off plants become established with new roots they should 
be gradually inured to the open air. The hardier kinds, if in 
pots, may be set upon a bed of coal ashes, or plunged in the 
open air and protected at night by hoops and mats. If plunged 
in old tan, ashes, or other light material, much of the labour 
of watering will be saved, and the plants will be in a better 
state when the planting-out season arrives; but the most eco- 
nomical plan is to plant them out in frames, and at the proper 
season to remove them to the beds with balls.—W. Kranz. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 
AnoTHeER fine week for out-door work. Planted more Pota- 
toes, the ground being in excellent order, and sowed more Peas 
and Beans. We have to calculate this to a general nicety. We 
seldom can sow borders or quarters at atime, but must be 
satisfied with a few rows, so as to have a succession, though a 
small one. We have frequently alluded to the common prac- 
tice of expecting so much from an acre or two of kitchen 
garden, even when the land round it brings in a very small 
sum as rent. Without liming, &., ground that never has a 
chance to rest a little becomes next to inert, and will not pro- 
duce as when fresher. However, rotten dung and a little lime 
do wonders, 
Our first Potatoes in pots are very fair, but smaller than 


| usual, which we attribute to the fact of having to move them 


frequently ; however, ripe tubers, clean and sweet, at the end 
of March, look almost as well as if they were larger. A 

Cauliflowers and Cabbages.—With the exception of the Cauli- 
flowers under hand-lights, which, from being covered in the 
severe weather, have done well, we saved ultimately few others, 
even when they received a little protection; very few Cab- 
bages were left to us, and of the Coleworts on a north bank, 
though they stood, yet we fear a good many willruntoseea. We 
have a nice lot of strong stubby Cauliflowers and Cabbages that 
were raised on a slight hotbed, pricked out, and then hardened 
off by degrees; but well as they look, we expect we must wait 
some weeks for hearted young Cabbages. We have put a 
cordon of ashes and lime round the rows to keep intruders at 
bay. We find that woud pigeons are interfering with our Peas, 
nibbling off the tops. We would like to know what will keep 
them away if there is to be no noise from a gun. 

We mentioned the other week some seeds of Peas and 
Beans being disturbed by rats or mice, though red-leaded. 
That, however, is the only case. All sown before and since are 
thoroughly unmolested. Some years ago we had no chance 
with Peas, unless they were securely netted until they were 
a foot in height, or we planted them out when fully 6 inches 
high. Thanks to the red-leading, we have been saved the 
annoyance of raising and transplanting. Even pheasants, which 
used to clear-out the rows, fight shy of touching the. tops, 
partridges the same; but wood pigeons are not so particular, 
as we have started a bevy of them from the Peas at early morn. 
When staked, as they will be presently, the wood pigeons will 
not get so easy access to the top, and they are rather afraid and 
suspicious of the stakes. 3 

Hotbeds.—Thesé are sometimes rather uncertain in cold 
weather. We lately stated that beds put up for Cucumbers did 
not heat as we expected, but when the weather became close, 
muggy, and warm they heated rather too violently, and we had 
to take corresponding measures. In all such beds intended for 
Melons and Cucumbers it is well to have the heat well up and 
regular before the soil is added. The soil then is soon heated, 
and the plants when turned out will push along at once. To 
save all future trouble and checks from moving and exposure, 
we prefer giving the necessary amount of soil at once. 

We used to have a sort of pitched battle every year here 
between the rough dung frame and the hot-water pit as respects 
early spring Cucumbers, and generally for a long succession of 
years there was little to choose between them. This year, 


260 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 6, 1871. 


owing to the beds not heating kindly, partly owing to a lot of 
leaves merely beginning to heat being placed at the bottom 
instead of the top, there will be no contest nor comparison, as 
those in the small pit heated by hot water, and planted in pots 
plunged overhead in a small bed, have yielded profusely, and 
if we be not careful will hurt themselves with excessive fertility. 
After many years’ experience we have never found any plan 
to excel that lately described for obtaining a great number of 
Cucumbers in little room. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

For large establishments there has nothing appeared of late 
so interesting and instructive as the articles by Mr. Robson on 
table decoration. Still, we consider that there is much force in 
what is stated by Mr. Giddings in page 238 as to making the 
most of limited means. This can hardly be taught by preceot, 
but the managers of large places have but.a faint idea of the 
work, the changing and shifting, and the constant care required 
to make the most of every foot of glass at all seasons of the 
year, and where even forcing and fruit houses must turn out 
ever so many borrowed crops, as it were, of different things. 
Many a man may wish and sigh in vain for a place for every- 
thing, and everything in its place, when he finds he must have 
80 many temporary crops in one place, and still the main 
point be kept in view. We believe with more resources as to 
room, much labour and time would be saved. Few employers 
have any idea of the labour involved in succession crops of 
Beans, Strawberries, &c., in Peach houses and vineries, not to 
apeak of myriads of bedding plants before much heat is applied. 

Now even as respects Strawberrics, we have often wished for 
a house to grow them only for early crops. In other houses 
they succeed as borrowed crops, chiefly in proportion to the 
light and air given to them. In such houses the borrowed 
crops of Strawberries heve often in value paid all the expenses 
of fuel and management for Peaches and Grapes. Where many 
plants besides the Strawberries are grown in such houses, there 
is apt to be too much humidity for the swelling and ripening 
of the fruit. When once a roof is nearly covered with foliage, 
Strawberries will do little good underit. There is alsoa draw- 
back where there is rather too much moisture. Our Peach 
house is the best place we have for a free setting of carly Straw- 
berries, and hence when swelling freely we remove them to 
other places. We took a lot to the front shelf of a vinery, 
where they swelled fast, though we would rather avoid the 
moving if we could. But here, owing to the stage and floor 
being filled with plants that rather liked subdued light, the 
necessary moisture to them was too much for the swelling and 
ripening fruit. Morning after morning as we passed along we 
had to pick off several fine fruit beginning to show signs of 
ripening because of damping off; and as we could not afford 
this we had the plants removed to a temporary stage in a brick 
pit, where they could have drier heat as well as a freer current 
of air. In sucha pit, before some Vines required the space, 
a lot of our old favourite Black Prince Strawberry did excellent 
service,» producing good-sized fruit freely and in succession. 
This early kind is impatient of much heat. It does best when 
the artificial heat is little above 55° until the fruit begins to 
colour. 


In all places heated by hot water where Strawberries aye 


grown, it is well to smear the pipes with flowers of sulphur. 
mixed with a little soft-soap water it will adhere all the better. 
If there is a shelf near the back wall, the wall may also be well 
sulphured to keep red spider away. 
ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Proceeded with work out of doors as previously detailed, and 
with cleaning, potting, pricking off, and cutting-making. Many 
tender plants, as Coleus and Iresine, may still be struck in 
time for having fine plants by the end of May. 

Those who intend doing much with hardy annuals should 
sow now without delay. In general they will come up at 
once, and do better than those sown earlier, and, except in the 
ease of the very hardiest, will bloom assoon, For regular beds 
it is best to sow in rows or rings, not too deeply, and thin when 
up. When the seeds are sown in patches, it is a good plan to 
cover with pots until the seedlings are fairly up, and then to 
expose them by degrees. For symmetrical beds that cannot 
well be sown now, seeds may be sown in rows in a little bed in 
rich compost, and then be lifted in patches, and transplanted 
at once at the requisite distances. Now isa good time to sow 
Stocks, Asters, Zinnias, and half-hardy annuals in general 
in a mild hotbed. They generally do better than if sown a 
month earlier, unless there be plenty of room and convenience 
for pricking them out and keeping them in a growing tempe- 


rature. Checks are great drawbacks to their doing well after- 
wards.— ki. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED. 


Downie, Laird, & Laing, Stanstead Park, Forest Hill, London, S.E.,. 
and 17, South Frederick Street, Edinburgh.— Descriptive Catalogue of 
Florists’ Flowers, &c. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 
N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. 


Marine AspHatr WALES (EZ. S.).—It is best done in dry weather, but 
you may asphalt them at this time of year during dry days. It is well to 
have a good bottom of rubble, and then cover with 3 inches of asphalt, 
formed by pouring boiling coal tar over cinders, bringing the whole to the 
consistency of mortar, and when this is spread on the walks and stiffens 
a little, sprinkle with gravel—spar is best—and when it will bear the 
roller, rollit firmly. Coal tar answers quite as well as pitch, and may be 
had at a cheap rate from gasworks. At some itis given away. 


FLOUNDER Potato (4. D. C.).—We have known the Fluke sold under 
that name, evidently because of its flat form. For a damp climate we 
should prefer the earliest-ripening varieties. 


WHOo Is AN AMATEUR? (J. Poole).—It is as impossible for us to say 
what ‘the Horticultural Society’s definition of an amateur” would be as 
it was for a former Chief Justice to extract from witnesses a congordant 
answer to “Whoisagentleman?” Our definition of an amateur gardener 
is—one who cultivates, or has culivated for him, a garden for his own use 
and pleasure. He may sell that garden’s surplus produce, and yet be an 
amateur, for gardening is neither his profession nor livelihood, 

SEEpLine Fucusta (J. Garnett).—The flower of the Fuchsia enclosed to 
us haying petaloid anthers, is not very uncommon, having noticed the same 
in casual blossoms many vears ago, and occasionally since; but even if 
constant in its feature throughout the year, eminent florists thinkit would 
not become popular. 


ConIFER SEEDS.—In reply to “ Vicar,” ‘A. B. C.” has procured seeds 
of various Conifere from Haage and Schmidt, of Erfurt, in Prussia. 
Macintosh, seedsman at Hammersmith, advertised himself this year as 
the agent of another Erfurt firm, which also supplies tree seeds. Seeds 
of the Deodar may be had direct from Simla. “ A. B. C.” forgets the name 
of the commission agents there who supply them; but any Indian in the 
habit of spending the hot season there, will know the name ofone. Deodar 
seeds are only ripened once in two yearsas arule. They can therefore 
be the better relied on when obtained direct from Simla. They are only 
supplied there fresh after the harvest. 


CHINESE ARBOR-ViT= HEDGE CuTtine (H. B. M.).—The best time for 
cutting it is before growth commences, but it will be well to defer it 
until milder weather than we have lately experienced, or say about the 
middle of April You may cut it back to any extent, both at the top and 
sides, and it will push freely. It makes a capital screen, but is not strong 
enough for a fence. 


VINEs FoR A Coon Vinery (C. R.).—You cannot without fire heat in a 
vinery grow successfully Lady Downe’s, Alicante, Grizzly Frontignan, 
and Mill Hill Hamburgh, except in an unusually warm season. They all 
require fire heat, and are good kinds. We have no experience of applying 
sulphate of iron to Peach trees, and have no faith in its application. 


Vines on Harpy Srocrs (R.S. S.).—Some kinds may be had grafted 
on hardy stocks, but, as a rule. it is little practised by nurserymen, and 
we do not know of any nurseryman carrying on the practice. They ought 
to advertise. Water from barrels coated inside with tar will not be suit- 
able for watering plants either in pots or borders. It isinjurious. The 
barrels should be emptied, dried, and fired inside with a bundle of straw, 
by which means the tar will be burnt off, and the wood charred, rendering 
it more durable. 


PicoTrE SEED Sow1ne (G.).—You may now sow the seed in pans of 
light rich soil, and place them in a gentle hotbed, and when the young 
plants are well above ground remove them to a cold frame; when large 
enough to handle prick them out in a bed in the open ground, and in 
autumn you may take them up and pot, wintering them in a cold frame. 
They will not flower until the following summer, and we question their 
value for flowering at Christmas, or, indeed, being of any use for forcing. 
They and Carnations, to be of value for winter, require to be of the Per- 
petual class, and require to be grown specially for the purpose, being 
kept pinched back early in saummer—in fact, kept from flowering, and the 
growth should be made early in summer so as to induce autumn and 
winter flowerin#. Early-layered Carnations are of no use for forcing 
but Pinks answer well. 


CYDONIA JAPONICA PRUNING (dn Old Subscriber).—We should be un- 
willing to interfere in any way with the plant’s future flowering, and we 
fear such will be the case if you cut-in the spurs 9 inches in length, as 
we should, to within an inch or two of their base. The young shoots you 
may shorten back to within an inch of their base, and they will form 
spurs, or you may cause them to do so by pinching-out the points of the 
shoots from them at the third leaf. The pruning should be performed as 
soon as the flowering is past. Keep the shoots well stopped during the 
summer—in fact, treat it as you would a close-pinched pyramid Pear tree 
on the Quince. 


GarpENIA CuLtuRE (C. M.).—G. florida will do tolerably well in a 
warm greenhouse, but to succeed well requires to be grown in the coolest 
and most airy position in a stove. G. radicans requires a stove. We can 
only account for the plants’ not flowering from the circumstance of their 
being grown in a cool house, and, therefore, not perfecting their growths. 
The plants are very free-flowering; we haye them in full bud now, though 
only a few inches high. They will flower this month, and they may be 
had in bloom in May by placing them in a greenhouse. The plants 
require to be potted after flowering in a compost of two parts fibrous 
loam, one part sandy peat, and a free admixture of sharp sand. En- 
courage growth by a free use of the syringe, and maintaining a moist at- 
mosphere, and, if it can be given, a mild bottom heat. Water freely, 
especially when growing and flowering, and at no time should the soil 
become dry. We have grown them very successfully by placing them in 
a hotbed in March for a short time to start them into growth and flower, 


April 6, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER, 


261 


and then setting them in a vinery to complete the growth, continuing 
them in a house at a temperature of from 40° to 45° from fire heat in 
winters They are the better, however, of a cool stove temperature at all 
imes. 

CYCLAMEN HEDER2=FOLIUM CuLturE (T. W.).—We conclude your plant 
is C. repandum (C. hederzefolium of some). It flowers in April, producing 
bright red flowers, or it may be C. neapolitanum, also C. hederzfolium of 
some, which has bright rosy pink flowers in September. The corms of 
the former, and, indeed, all Cyclamens out of doors, should have a cover- 
ing of not less than 1} inch in thickness, and we give ours a top-dressing 
of partially decayed leaves. We find the following do well on the slightly 
elevated parts of rockwork, shaded from the direct midday rays of the 
sun, east aspects being most suitable, though they do well in the west— 
C. coum, bright red, flowering in February and March; C. europeum, 
Tred, flowering at the end of summer, and fragrant; C. neapolitanum, 
rosy pink, September; C. repandum, April; and C. vernum, red, like 
C. coum, but with a slightly marbled leaf. Of these C. neapolitanum is 
the most free-growing, doing well in not very shaded woods, particu'arly 
on their margins, where there is a deposit of vegetable matter. We have 
seen corms nearly 6 inches in diameter producing hundreds of flowers. 
Such plants as these by walks in woods are as much gems in autumn as 
Primroses are in spring. It is remarkable they are not more extensively 
planted. The ground must be free of stagnant water. 

List oF RosEs (A Cottage Gardener).—All the Roses in the list are 
Hybrid Perpetuals, except Charles Lawson, which is a Hybrid Bourbon, 
and one of the finest summer Roses grown. We do not know John Grier 


or Due @’Anjou;‘all the rest are rightly spelt except Duchesse.de Medina- |- 


Coli and Madame Charles Crapelet. 


Prounine Ivy (W.W. M.).—There are two sides to most questions, and 
yours relative to the Ivy is not an exception. The advantage of cutting- 
in pretty closely now Ivy on a wall is, that the Ivy is kept near the wall, 
and you will have a mantle of beautiful fresh green ina few weeks. The 
disadvantage is, that for a short time the Ivy will look rather bare and 
stunted. Where this would be a drawback, we would shorten-back for 
one season. But where there is not a pretty close trimming, the Ivy in 
time would get too heavy and come too far from the wall. We should 
prune now. 


EDGING FoR YELLOW CALCEOLARIA BED (J. W.).—If there is room we 
would prefer a narrow fringe of Cerastium, and then Purple King Verbena 
in front of the Calceolaria. Good plants of Lobelia would do equally 
well. A fine edging would be formed of Iresine Lindeni kept low. 


Heatinc A Pir py a Five (A Subscriber).—There can be no question 
as to heating sucha pit bya flue. For a small place like it, we would 
have the flue all round, and place it on the floor of the pit, sinking the 
stokehole all that more, so that the fire-bars of the small fireplace should 
be 18 inches beneath the level of the bottom of the flue. If you studied 
economy in materials, the present front wall and, back wall might form 
the outer sides of the flue. You would not obtain so much heat as if the 
flue stood detached. For 2 feet from the furnace we would make the flue 
of brick-on-bed, all the rest we would make of two bricks on-edge, and 
just so wide as to be covered with a 9-inch tile, or evena brick laid across. 
If you have the means we consider that a chamber a foot or so oyer the 
flue would be best. The cheapest mode we have ever tried was using 
rough slabs of wood to go across, and then filling-in the rather open 
spaces between them with brickbats and very rough mortar. These 
allowed the heat to rise pretty freely. Where slate or stone cannot be 
used for chambering, we would, however, dispense with the chamber, and 
as you propose, fill-up the space with clinkers, brickbats, kc. We once 
had a pit that did such service asnever was beaten with hot water or any 
other mode of heating. In this case the flue, instead of being close to 
the sides, was fully 18 inches from the sides, back and front. That space 
back and front, as well as the space between the flues, was filled-up with 
bats and clinkers in as loose a state as possible, so as to form in reality a 
chamber. On this rough rubble, a little above the level of the flue, at 
back and front in the centre of each light we set an upright drain-pipe 
of 4 inches in diameter, the lower end resting on a common house-slate, 
but raised above it half an inch by three pieces of tile placed beneath it. 
The object of this was not merely to let the heat up, but by pouring 
water down to set that water spreading over the stones near the flue 
without ever drenching the flue itself. With a wooden plug in these 
pipes ary top heat or moist heat could be had at will. Over the bottom 
of these pipes and the top of the flues more open rubble was placed, 
finishing with a layer of clean-washed small gravel as the bottom of the 
bed of earth, small enough on the top to permit the earth being taken 
clean away without disturbing the bed. As your pit is divided bya brick 
wall, you might have a moist atmosphere in one division for Cucumbers, 
@ moist atmosphere also in the division for Melons when growing, and a 
dry atmosphere to give them flavour when ripening. If you can contrive 
openings at the end for cleaning the flue, we would prefer the fiue, if 
small, to go all round, as thus less heat would he lost. If you cannot 
well do so, we should be satisfied with a14-inch flue along the middle of 
the pit. We have seen splendid crops of Cucumbers with flue heat. If 
you had a little house, say 10-feet in width and a rather steep roof, so 
that you could walk inside, then we would say have a strong flue round 
the house, shut in the front by a wall, make a clinker bed as above below 
the soil, and leave the back flue exposed for top heat. 


ANNUATS FOR FLowER BeEps (A. C.).—Annuals will do very wellin such 
beds if you take the trouble to pick off the seed-pods. The following would 
look well, anda penny or twopence worthof each would do. For the large 
centre bed or border :—Centre with Prince’s Feather, a ring round of Love- 
lies-bleeding, a ring round of Erysimum Peroffskianum, then Clarkia pul- 
chella, and finished with Clarkia pulchella alba. The two side beds would 
look well filled with Saponaria calabrica, and Silene pendula, or Silene 
pendula in the middle, and an edging of blue Nemophila, sowing rather 
thinly, and sowing again at the end of June. For a lower bed in the 
centre you might have the Erysimum mentioned above—that stands well, 
then Clarkia pulchella, Clarkia pulchella alba, finishing with Silene rnber- 
Tima. These may be sown among the bulbs now, and the bulbs will 
suffer little from being left in the ground, but you will make a better job 
and more regular beds by allowing the bulbs to ripen, or taking them up 
carefully so as to ripen elsewhere, and sowing at once. If you allow the 
bulbs to ripen in the beds, then fix on a piece of ground, make it rather 
rich for 2 or 3 inches on the surface, cover witha little fine soil, and 
sow the seeds thickly in little drills; then when the beds are empty 
and all ready, lift the little plants with a trowel in little patches, and plant 


these little patches regularly in your beds. You may turf now, but hardly 
with safety, unless the turi be taken up pretty thick and you place itina 
tub of water to soak before laying it down. If you cannot do this, you 
had better defer turfing until the autumn. 


Compost FoR GERANIUMS, &c. (A Subscriber).—Geraniums succeed 
well in a compost of two parts light loam from rotted turf, one part leaf 
soil, or one part of thoroughly decayed dung, with a free admixture of 
sand. The compost for Cinerarias may consist of two parts light fibrous 
loam, one part leaf soil, half 2 part each of sandy peat and old hotbed 
maaure, and one-sixth of silver sand. For Fuchsias use three parts 
loam and one part each of old cow dung and leaf soil, with a free ad- 
mixture of sharp sand; for Balsams, two parts light loam and one part 
old hotbed manure ; for Primulas, tivo parts fibrous light loam, one part 
leaf soil, half a part of old cow dung, one part of sandy peat, and half a 
part of silver sand. The whole of the materials should be well mixed, 
and the loam chopped fine but not sifted. As regards the propagating 
house, write to some of the horticultural builders who advertise in this 
Journal, stating what you require, and asking for an estimate. 

EVUCHARIS AMAZONICA TO FLOWER Four Tres IN A SEASON (A Lady 
in Cheshire)—We know some who flower this plant by placing it for a 
time in bottom heat until it makes a good growth, and then remove it 
for about six weeks to a drier and cooler place, and afterwards re-intro- 
duce it to bottom heat and a moist atmosphere. This is said to cause it 
to flower as required. We have no experience, however, of that practice, 
and anyone having successfully flowered it four times in a season would 
oblige us by particulars of treatment. 


QuEEN ANNE’s PockEeT MEtLon (W. W.).—It may be had through any 
of the seedsmen who advertise in our columns. 


THYRSACANTHUS RUTILANS FOR DECEMBER (Idem).—The cuttings you 
insert in a few days will no doubt form plants which will flower in Decem- 
ber, but these will not be fine. You will, of course, place the cuttings in 
bottom heat, and when struck transfer them to larger pots as soon as the 
roots in the cutting pots reach the sides, again place the plants in bottom 
heat, and continue them in it until they are rooting freely, then withdraw 
them by degrees, and remove them to a late vinery or other house where 
there is a brisk heat and moist atmosphere, and by August they will need 
their final shift, which will be determinable by the size and condition of 
the plants. Large shifts are not to be commended. In September afford 
a light, airy position in a warm house, giving no more water than enough 
to keep the foliage fresh. In October they should be placed in a house 
with a temperature of from 60° to 65° at night, and from 70° to 75° by 
day ; and if bottom heat be at command, plunge the pots, and the plants 
may flower at the time yourequire. Old plants would serve you betier, 
and flower under ordinary treatment in a stove at the time you name. 


RHODODENDRON FLOWER Bons Insurep (W. H.).—The bud enclosed to 
us is eaten by the larva of some insect, but what we cannot determine 
in the absence of a specimen. The bud sent was not destroyed. It 
would have flowered had the damage proceeded no further. 


BETA BRAZILIENSIS TREATMENT (H. C.).—We should prick off the 
plants just coming up, as soon as they are large enough to handle, into 
other pans about an inch apart, and continue them ina frame with a 
gentle heat until they have recovered from the removal, and then plant 
them out in the open ground in May after being well hardened off ina 
cold frame. They should have deep rich soil and an open situation. On 
their full-leaf development depends their effect. Good ordinary garden 
soil answers well. 


SEEDLING CrnERARIA (EZ. P. Y.).—The flower is large and showy, but 
is altogether defective as a florists’ flower. 


Surton’s RED-SKINNED |FLOURBALL—PRESIDENT LiIncotn Porato 
(G. G.).—We do not kuow the American variety youname. We sent your 
inquiry to Mr. Fenn, and he replies:—‘‘I can perceive no difference 


between Sutton’s Red-skinned Flourball and the American Red Potato. 
Whether one or the other is sailing under the synonymy of President 
Lincoln I cannot say, further than that it is very likely to be the case; 
but this I do know, if the renaming of the American Red goes on as it has 
begun, it bids fair soon to outdo, in the matter of aliases, our old English 
“ Grammar,” and that will tend to confusion worse confounded. Ibelieve 
there is a Potato called President Lincoln, and I trust it is bettor than 
any of those Amevican sorts which I have proved, more worthy than them 
to commemorate the name of so great a benefactor of his species.” 


GRAFTING WITH WEEPING AsH (4 Novice in Gardening).—The main 
point is to procure some nice common Ash stocks with clean stems, and 
of the required height (9 to 12 feet), and stout, so as to stand without 
support. Take the scions from the Weeping Ash, the moderately strong 
growths of last year before they begin to swell the buds, and insert their 
ends in damp soil in a shady place. When the buds of the stock begin to 
swell, cut off the head down to where you wish to graft, choosing a smooth 
part of the bark, and put on the scion there in the same way as you would 
an Apple or Pear, tying and claying in the same way. Whip grafting is 
perhaps the most eligible method. You will find full particulars respect- 
ing grafting in the ‘Science and Practice of Gardening,’ which may be 
had free by post from our office if you send 3s. 84d. with your address. 


RED-LEADING PEAs (Idem).—Steeping the Peas in train oil and sulphur 
not proving effectual, we advise you to try red lead. Moisten the Peas 
thoroughly with water, dust over them red lead, and then stir them 
with a piece of wood until every Pea is covered with red lead. We putin 
about three pinches of red lead to a quart of Peas, a pinch being as much. 
a3 can be lifted between the finger and thumb. It does not in any wa; 
interfere with the growth of the Peas. wi 


OTAHEITE ORANGE INFESTED WITH SCALE (F. E. P.).—The brown 
spots on the leaf sent are the Orange Scale (Coccus), and their secretions 
are the honeydew you speak of, which in time is possessed by a black ‘ 
fungus. If you remove the scale, the honeydew and black mould or fun- 
gus will disappear. Pick off the brown spots whilst young or soft with the 
point of a knife, and wash the leaves on both sides with a solution of soft 
soap, 20zs. to the gallon, as hot as the hand can bear, dropping into the 
solution about twenty drops of spirits of turpentine. 


Puzzuine Ants (Q_).—If the fruit trees in your orchard house are in pots, 
set them on bricks in saucers full of water. Iinot in pots, have small vessels 
of water, say formed of zinc, an inch wide and an inch deep, to set round 
the plant. A little wadding, the outside dipped in oil and soft soap, and 
tied on the stem, will prevent them rising. If on a wall outside,.the best 
plan is to syringe the wall well with a clear solution ‘of lime_and soot 


262 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ April 6, 1871. 


water, beginning at the top and washing down, going over the wall a 
second time, and then painting the bottom of the wall with a cordon, 
say 3inches wide, of tar and oil. Strong lime water and guano make 
them go off with us. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


WHAT ARE THE USES OF POULTRY SHOWS? 


THERE is no doubt whatever that good, poultry shows have 
done for the breeds of fowls in general—that is, as far as con- 
cerns their economic value, they are practically of little use. 
They encourage the various breeds to excel in the apparently 
useful qualities peculiar to each; but it is in the paying so 
much attention to these very points that the fowl itself be- 
comes deteriorated. Of course, I am speaking of the prize fowl, 
the upper ten thousand of the feathered race. I do not deny 
that shows have some advantage, for they do keep up races de- 
scended from ancestors of real usefulness, so that by crossing 
with birds of lower pedigree or different variety, the good qua- 
lities may be regained. 

This deterioration is occasioned partly by the judges and 
partly by the prize-devouring exhibitor. 

The judge, perhaps, sees certain points that want developing; 
he lays stress on, and unduly encourages them, till he, perhaps, 
gets beyond what he originally expected to be attained, and at 
the expense of other properties. To supply the demand for 
the prize fowl, the ardent or covetous fancier rears a fowl for 
the judge, and all minor considerations are laid aside. 

The lordly Dorking may only rear half its brood, it may 
scorn the noble art of laying, and die in great honour with a 
bumble foot; but if it has only won a silver cup that is enough. 
The haughty (exhibition) Game fowl stalks about in most 
brilliant attire on legs admirably adapted for running away, 
propagates a roupy but prize-winning set of chickens, goes the 
round of a number of shows with great success perhaps, in 
intervals of health, and dies at last of some mysterious disorder. 

Dare I couple the Brahma with these typical exhibition 
fowls? when its enthusiastic patrons tell us ‘‘ here we have a 
fowl fit for exhibition and everything else we can desire; it is 


large, handsome, amiable, contented and industrious, hardy | 


and prolific, delicious eating, if eaten at exactly the proper 
time of its existence” (which is hard to hit on)—fowls, they 
say, that come home victoriously from a fatiguing show only to 
lay admirable eggs with redoubled energy, and to rear in an ex- 


utterly destitute of feathers in an early part of their existence, 
by wearing a superabundance where they are of no earthly 
use in after life. 

The Brahma, however, being a new and still improving 
variety, has not arrived yet at a standstill, for in many of the 


breeds, both in fowls and Ducks, the limit of weight seems to | 


have been attained, and in the feather varieties where weight 
is not of such importance, constitution is lost by in-breeding, 
while the Game fowl is no longer that hardy, compact bird with 
fighting qualities, and constitution which also made it useful 
as a farmyard fowl, but is bred likea cage bird. So that my 
opinion is, that poultry shows, beyond being a means of grati- 
fying a pleasant hobby, are of no real value in encouraging the 
breeding of poultry in its development as a source of food for 
the nation at large.—Cuaryppis. 


[We read the foregoing to a well-known poultry exhibitor, 
and he exclaimed, ‘‘ You surely wo’n’t publish tbat!” and he 
put on his hat and departed when we replied that we should 
place it first in the ‘‘ Poultry: Chronicle.” There is much 
truth, but not the whole truth among ‘‘ Cuaryppts’s” clever 
sgarcasms, and the whole truth, had he told it, would have been 
the Scylla to those sarcasms. 

“ Errors like straws upon the surface flow, 
He that would search for pearls must dive below.” 
It is quite true that many of the finest Brahmas and Cochins 
are vulture-hocked; many noble Game fowls have legs not 
agreeing in colour with the plumage; many pure Dorkings 
having diverse combs ina pen; many good Hamburghs haying 
hen tails, have been on account of those trivial peculiarities 
disqualified by judges, and rightly disqualified, because certain 
rules are laid down declaring all those peculiarities defects. As 
a matter of taste we admire vulture-hocked Brahmas, and the 
other disqualifications are trivial—but what then? Certain 
characteristics must be rendered peremptory, or the breeder for 
exhibition and the judge would be more eccentric even than they 


occasionally are. But let us ‘‘dive below” and seek for an 
answer to this query—Since poultry shows have largely ex- 
tended, is not the supply of eggs and market fowls largely in- 
creased ?—EDs. | 


MY POULTRY BALANCE SHEET FOR 1870. 


Pouurry is my hobby, and I make it pay. I am sure others 
may do so, and in many cases poultry-keeping may make a 
very nice little addition to the yearly income. Let everyone 
praise the bridge that carries him over the river. I find it 
pays me, and I am not ashamed to say so—nay, on the con- 
trary, by doing soI hope to lead others to become poultry- 
keepers, as my experience has led me to the conclusion that 
anyone with attention and a nice grass run can make a very 
useful addition to his income, if limited ; if not, there are others - 
who have plenty, and still want something to occupy their 
time. What more delightful than their breeding and rearing 
poultry, and letting the poor reap the fruits of their endea- 
yours ? 

To beginners I say, and to all who keep poultry, Read Mr. 
L. Wright’s letters. He is a perfect stranger to me; therefore 
1 may be allowed to say that his communications have in them 
that which we rarely meet with—a thorough practical know- 
ledge, and from no one have I ever found such useful hints as 
from him. 

I have mentioned a grass run: all poultry are better for it. 
There are sorts that may be reared without it, but I keep 
Dorkings solely, and to them a grass run is indispensable. 

In January, 1870, my stock consisted of eight hens and two 
cocks; from these I reared seventy-seven chickens. Many of 
these were weeded out, and sold for the table. Birds sold and 
prizes won left me £6517s.11d. The whole of my expenditure, 
including entrance fees, &c., amounted to £15 17s. 10d. The 
clear balance was therefore £50 ld. . Hyerything is entered 
in my book, except the eggs used in my house. 

I am also a bee-keeper, but let me warn poultry-keepers about 
having bees near their fowls. I have had several chickens 
stung to death; therefore I am determined to be rid of them. 
I do not find them pay anything like poultry, and I find them 
a great nuisance in very hot weather to ladies or people un- 
accustomed to them. In fact, although having had twenty 
hives at a time, and, therefore, having had some experience, I 
have had to go to town on important business twice with an eye 
swollenup. Not pleasant. Ifound when I went to an hotel the 


| waiters looked with great suspicion on me, and I felt anything 
emplary manner chickens, which make up for going about | 


but comfortable.—T. E. Kein, Wetherby. 


A POULTRY EXPERIMENT, AND AN ODD 
MOUSETRAP. 


Just now poultry fanciers are dreaming of broody hens and 
of coming chickens, counting the latter, perhaps, before they 
are hatched, in spite of the old proverb. As to Canary fanciers 
they are all in a flutter with whitewashing, and nest-material 
collecting, and putting this bird into that bird’s cage, and 
thinking they will make a nice pair, and then altering arrange- 
ments and forbidding tenderness about to begin. Some are re- 
reading Blakston’s ‘‘ Commentaries,’ vide vol. xiy. of “our 
Journal; some shaking the maw-seed tin, and peeping into 
the box that contains nest baskets, extra perches, sulphur, tar, 
cage-divisions, &c. Some, if we are to believe ‘‘ B. B.,” which 
I for one do not, are teasing their wives with their arrange- 
ments for their pets. But good wives are never teased, but 
pleased to join-in with their husbands’ innocent recreations. 
And the bad ones are like people really intending suicide; they 
do not talk or write about it. Well, considering then this time 
of year, and all that is going on in poultry-house and in bird- 
room, in all sorts of in-the-way and out-of-the-way places, I will 
relate two circumstances that occurred last season, the first for 
the benefit of the poultry people, and the second for the class 
of Canary lovers. 

First, then, for the poultry experiment. I remoyed two hens 
from a cock bird of quite a different breed, and placed them 
with a cock of their own breed, making a note of the date. I 
then sent into the kitchen every egg laid until that day six 
weeks, and then saved a sitting of eggs and placed them under 
ahen. Every one came true, and in no chicken was there a 
trace of the breed of the former cock. So now it need not be 
“about six weeks, or, probably, a little more than six weeks’ 
separation ;” but the fact is established, that six weeks are 
sufficient. Such was my experiment, and such its results. 


April 6, 1871. ] 


Now for fact No. 2. A lady near me ‘ put up,” as it is called, 
a pair of Canaries. The breeding-cage was placed near the 
eeiling for fear of ‘‘ puss,” but could be moved up and down, 
and brought near its mistress’s eye by means of pulleys and 
cords, the cords running along the ceiling. All seemed right for 
a time ; the nest was duly made, but the hen did not appear to sit. 
Down was brought the cage, the nest examined, and in it (oh! 
horrors !) was a tribe of young mice, cozy and comfortable, and 
ofjrecent birth. The old ones must haye reached the cage at 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 263 


night, running along the cords Blondin fashion. The Canaries 
were removed and some poison put in the cage, and next morn- 
ing there were sixteen corpses of adult mice on the cage floor. 
Mice are the worst troubles I know to a Canary fancier, and 
cause most excusably, the—not anger—but little waves of 
trifling displeasure to arise now and then in the minds of our 
‘“B, B.s.” May they all meet, not the ‘B. B.s,” but the 
mice, with like expeditiously-killing poison.— WiursHIRE 
REcToOR. 


THE TURBIT. 


Anone the many varieties of fancy Pigeons, there is scarcely | neat and elegant appearance. There is a doubt as to whether 


one more charming than the Columba Turbita. It is almost 
universally and certainly deservedly admired, not only for the 
pleasing contrast2and beauty of its plumage, but also for its 


ih 
Hi 


iN 
IN 
a 


and points, than it is in Germany; and from the comparatively 
_ small knowledge of the bird exhibited by the modern Teutons, 
it might not be rash to say that its home is France. 

The variety is classed by some ornithologists as the Columba 
fimbriata, or Fringed Dove, from its flounced and sealloped 
feathers, and in many respects it differs entirely from those 
classes of fancy birds that seem to come very near to it in 
appearance. . 

The head of the Turbit is something more than peculiar, and 
therefore very difficult to describe. In the front it should be 
broad and full, while the top ought to be rather flat. The 
profile view bears a very striking resemblance to that of the 
frog, and is one of the most important points to be observed. 
The beak, though not unlike that of the Jacobin, Columba 
cuculata, should be shorter and thicker, while the strictly ortho- 
dox colour, white, is not to be departed from. The eye should 


France or Germany is its native place, since both countries 
claim it as their own. Itis, however, foundin a much more 
perfect state in the south of France, both as regards plumage 


be large and full and of a dark hazel colour, having the pupil 
black. A point of great merit is for the eye to be encircled by 
a buff-coloured lash or cere. / 
The peak or turn crown is now considered to be an essential 
characteristic, though of the two the former: is generally pre- 
ferred, as it has‘a much neater and more finished appearance. 
It must not, however, be confounded with the tuft or shell 
crown, as seen in other Pigeons, since this—technically termed 
head dress—would be as much out of place there as it is in cha- 
racter here, being unique. This peakis formed by the feathers 
rising from the back of the head in a horizontal line with the 
eye and beak, which terminate in a prettily pointed curvature 
a little above the head. If this is found placed lower down the 
neck it detracts very much from the unbroken outline, and 
spoiling an important point of excellence. In good specimens 


the neck feathers on both sides incline backwards, and, meeting 


264 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ April 6, 1871 


together, form a fringe or mane similar to the hog mane in a 
Jacobin. 

Another great point, by no means to be lost sight of, is the 
gullet. This should be well developed, and the frill below it 
should extend downwards nearly the whole front of the neck, 
and at the same time stand well out. The ruffle or frill can 
scarcely be too large; indeed, the larger it is the more it is 
admired. 

The shoulders.of the wing are the only parts of the bird that 
ought to be coloured, and these should be of a sound uniform 
hue. The prevailing and more generally-known shades are 


those of Blue, Silver, Red, Yellow, and Black, the Blue and. 


Silver being distinguished from the others by the addition of 
black bars, distinctly and clearly marked, which show to ad- 
vantage when the wing is at rest. The other part of the 
plumage is pure white, including the ten flight feathers and 
tail. The thighs also should be equally unspotted and free 
from dark feathers—a by no means easy point to obtain. 
Taking the colours separately, it may be noticed that the shade 
of the Blues should assimilate as nearly as possible to that 
known as the light sky-blue, or what might be called a bright 
slaty-blue. The hue of the Silvers should not be that of the 
washed-out blue type, but thoroughly of the argentine shade, 
and must be seen in order to be known. Good Keds, like the 
Yellows, are very difficult to obtain, those usually seen are 
generally inferior both in colour and points, consequently are 
not exhibited to the same extent as the Blues and Silvers. 
The Blacks are scarce, and those of a good rich colour are 
rarely met with except in their own climate. 

As regards size, the birds should be small, neat, and com- 
pact in form, having the chest broad and full; the flight fea- 
thers and tail must be rather short, and the feet of a bright 
coral red colour. 

The Turbit is not naturally a delicate bird, but, on the con- 
trary, is very hardy, and quite 2s prolific as any other variety. 
It is entirely owing to the caprice of those who are anxious to 
obtain the smallest possible size for exhibition that the con- 
stitution of the bird in this country has suffered so much. 
This, of course, is brought about by the system of breeding 
in-and-in, a system which it is to be hoped will soon die ont, 
or it will in the end have a strong tendency to destroy the 
original beauty of the variety altogether.—BiruincHam Conum- 
BARIAN SOCIETY. 


EXHIBITION MISMANAGEMENT. 


At Great Harwood Show, on Thursday last, I was an exhibitor. My 
best Carrier hen and my best pair of Barbs were not in the pen when 
the birds were judged. I sent Yellow Dragoons, but a pair of Blues 
were put in my pen, and were highly commended ; Yellows being first 
and second. Strange to say, when the birds were returned mine were 
all right, showing, I think, that they had been put into the pen of 
some one else purposely. My birds left Birmingham at 11 a.m. on 
Wednesday, and were not penned until after 11 on Thursday morning, 
and some of them not then, being without food and water over twenty- 
six hours. Again, the Show closed at 4 0’clock, p.m., on Thursday, and 
the birds did not reach Birmingham until 7.40 p.m. on Friday.— 
H. Yanpiry. 


vee Show must be an obscure one; we never see it advertised. 
—Ebs. 


POULTRY-KEEPING IN CONFINED SPACE. 


Berne a lover of poultry and Pigeons, also of gardening for nearly 
twenty years, it may interest many of your readers to know the result 
of my poultry-keeping for last year. Three sets of fowls were in a con- 
fined space—viz., in run No. 1, about 12 square yards, four Game 
Bantam hens and one cock; in run No. 2, about 40 yards, nine 
Houdan hens and one cock; in run No 3, payed house yard, passages, 
and coach house, akout 120 yards, ten Hamburgh hens and one cock. 


Run No.1. Run No. 2. Run No. 3, 
4 Bantams. 9 Houdans. 10 Hamburghs, 
JANUATY --+-eeeeee Eggslaid 3 d00 3 oc06 24 
February .......-.- 2 12 eee, 7 elstere 17 
MWarchiterer metric x 32 42 noo 57 
Apnea enetemerteice a 23 133 133 
WES? o6ada00nbo0>00 ff 22 141 113 
June.. CF 28 a 42, 117 
July ... - 12 O 39 oe 124 
August.... oy 13 39 84 
September .. on 5 12 36 
October .... ” 8 11 
November .. 30 5 10 . 0 
December ........ 7 OM ts. 2 
Otel eeclateisecieistes Boon yi 511 715* 


My object being to obtain eggs, the Hamburghs show the largest 
ee eee 
* 8th October allthes n No.8 killed by a dog. 


average. My system of feeding is alike with all, but those in the house 
yard, probably, have had more. scraps to pick among. All the potato 
peelings are well washed and boiled three times a-week, poured boiling 
on to equal parts of Indian corn, meal, and bran, mashed up into a 
good stiff consistency, and given each morning warm. About 2 P.M. we 
give a feed of corn mixed—oats, barley, wheat, and maize. All house 
scraps and shells of shell fish are thrown to the fowls, also green meat 
—cabbages, &c.— as it can be procured, sifted ashes, old mortar, and 
plenty of clean water; houses well cleaned and sanded twice a-week. 
With this treatment I find my fowls as healthy and well as any I ever 
see.—A SUBSCRIBER. 


PRESERVING EGGS. 


WE recommend the following to the attention of our readers, 
for we have reason to believe that oiling eggs is the best mode 
of preserving eggs from the summer until the following spring 
without their becoming tainted. The following trial seems to 
have been judiciously conducted. Flaxseed oil is commonly 
known as linseed oil. ‘‘ Continued immersion in lime-water 
gives the egg a peculiar taste, not agreeable: some advise salt 
water, but it penetrates the egg; ashes, bran, and sawdust do 
not preserve it; varnishing has been practised, but abandoned 
on account of the odour and taste which itcommunicates. The 
following experiments with pure oil will show their value :— 
Ten eggs were rubbed with the finger dipped in flaxseed oil, just 
lightly covered with the oil, which dried in a few days; ten 
other eggs were oiled in the same manner with the oil of the 
French poppy, to ascertain the comparative effect of the two 
oils; ten eggs were not oiled, and received no preparation; the 
thirty eggs were placed side-by-side, but not in contact, in a 
vessel, the bottom of which was covered with sand enough to 
keep them standing upright, three-fourths of each egg being 
exposed ; they remained thus for six months ; they were weighed 
when, first put into the tub, and weighed in six months after. 
The following will show the result :—Tirst, the eggs not pre- 
pared lost 18 per cent. of the primitive weight, were half empty 
and exhaled an odour of corruption; the eggs rubbed with oil 
of poppy lost 4 per cent., were full, without cdour or bad taste; 
the eggs rubbed with flaxseed oil lost 3 per cent. of primitive 
weight when it was full, and had the odour and taste of an egg 
perfeetly fresh. Hence, flaxseed oil maybe deemed preferable 
for preserving eggs.—(English Mechanic and World of Science). 


CANARY JUDGING AT WOODBRIDGE. 


How is it that the judge of Canaries at the recent Woodbridge Show 
has rendered himself conspicuous by reversing the decisions of many 
of the tried and acknowledged judges in Canary matters ? 

I sent birds there, to which different judges in London, Yorkshire, 
Lancashire, and elsewhere have always given prizes, and they are 
passed over without notice. I sent a Silver Lizard, amongst others, 
which had never been beaten, for which I refused £4, and it is not 
looked at; but a wretch of mine, which I will sell for 4s., is placed 
second. To make matters worse, having been beaten (as was stated, 
T saw, in last week’s Journal) for the cup by birds receiving very high 
commendations that were not worth giving a prize to—haying had 
my crack Lizard so insulted that he had to be put up with two hens to 
get his temper right again—I receive the following from my agent in 
London :—‘‘ Your birds arrived from Woodbridge without previous 
notice; one best Mule dead, the lot queer; it is a scandalous shame.” 
Fair thee well, Woodbridge! No more birds from—H. A. 


Fowis versus Ducks as Eac-propucers. — The question 
whether fowls or Dacks are the better investment for the pro- 
duction of eggs has to some extent been settled experimentally. 
Tt was found that on choosing three chickens and three Ducks 
hatched in February of the same year, the Ducks took the lead, 
laying 225 eggs in autumn while the fowls laid none. All were 
liberally fed with various kinds of food. The Ducks recom- 
menced the next February, and laid without interruption until 
August. They showed no inclination to breed, became thin at 
first, but gained afterwards. The following table gives the 
details of the season :— 


Eggs laid pyihe Fowls By the Ducks. 
2 


SJANUALY eis clelsiewicic's sie clsipisinicclete te cn 2 Ole coin 'elnialelsinfs elo ieininielnistae none 
February 387 -- 2 
March .... 39 63 
April Ao spiciscteininplale inielelsiate 68 
May . 89 cece ccc cnn sccamesiones 82 
June BS cecceeecccecerecncccce 72 
Chih? 6ororcboconadctosnosopae BBE Tee vciekiele wee wlevidenvs 70 
ATI BUBtiay-\ cinccie nie(sleimeinisinisieieleleis wing Alpin nine. upp feinloip cia \a'e ninloym eae 28 
IDOLE Sareiaiatctelaisieleieteisieiereln 257 892 


This is at the rate of 86 eggs per fowl, and 131 per Duck. 
100 fowls’ eggs weighed 12.1 lbs., and the shells, 1.44 lbs, 


April 6, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 265 


100 Ducks’ eggs weighed 11.8 Ibs., and the shells, 1.541bs. The 
solid substance of the former was 26.01 per cent., and of the 
latter 28.98. The fat amounted to 11.27 per cent in the fowls’, 
and to 14.49 in the Ducks’ eggs. The Ducks thus appear to be 
the winners in the competition.—(Food Journal.) 


STROUD CANARY SHOW. 


I wis to draw the attention of Canary-fanciers to the fact that 
there will be a show at Stroud at the end of May. I have had a 
schedule forwarded to me, and I find that the committee have arranged 
a most liberal prize-list, by far the best I have seen at any show in its 
infancy. There is alsoa cup, value £3 3s., for the exhibitor who gains 
most points, and very high commendations are not to count. Nothing 
will have such a damaging effect to shows in general than this intensely 
stupid plan of giving points to very highly commendeds, and I most 
earnestly hope that exhibitors will set their faces against it, and 
decline altogether to have anything to do with shows where this plan is 
adopted ; I for one certainly shall. And again, [think it would be a good 
plan if, when entering for a cup, exhibitors were made to sign something 
to this effect. ‘I solemnly declare that the birds entered by me to 
compete for the cup No. are solely my property, and that I have 
not borrowed a bird from anybody.” It is easy enough to win if you 
haye the pick of half a dozen studs, but borrowing is surely not fair, 
and ought to be put a stop to, both in Canaries and poultry. 

I hope exhibitors will enter largely at Stroud, for if the Show succeed 
this time, I have good authority when I say that ‘it will become a 
permanent association, and the exhibition next year and in future will 
be on a much more extended scale.” —Howarte Asuton, Prestwich. 


NOTES FROM MY CANARY ROOM—No. 4. 

_How are the birds getting on by this time? In all proba- 
bility they have had a few quarrels on the amantium ire prin- 
eiple, and are now good friends. Here the weather has been 
very cold indeed, which has its effects in retarding their matri- 
monial and house-keeping duties ; but in more favoured situa- 
tions, and specially in rooms where there is a fire, matters 
ought to have progressed more rapidly. Some, I daresay, aro 
thinking about building, carrying stuff about, putting it in the 
nest box very carefully, and taking it out again as carefully. 
Have a little patience and you will find things will go on very 
pleasantly in the course of a day or two. Others will havo 
settled down to the duties of their position in an old-fashioned 
way it is good to see, portending a due attention to parental 
requirements: will be sitting on the edge of the nest talking 
matters over and making love in whispers, while the young 
wife shows her spouse how prettily she has lined her berceau- 
nette. When the hen lays her first egg remove it, and put it 
away in @ spare nest or any convenient receptacle having a soft 
lining. Continue to do this till she has laid her third, and on 
the evening of that day or on the morning of the fourth give 
her the eggs, when she will at once begin to sit, unless, as is 
sometimes the case, she be going to lay above the average 
number, in which case she will most likely not commence 
sitting in earnest till she hag laid more than four. 

All hens do not commence to sit when the first ege is laid, but 
some do; many do, and if such be the case, all the young ones 
will not chip at the same time. It is to remedy this that I 
recommend the eggs to be removed till the hen hag laid what 
may be considered an average nest. The young ones will make 
their appearance on the morning of the thirteenth day, follow- 
ing that on which the hen began to sit, and it is desirable to 
have all of the same age in the same nest. A day makes a 
world of differénce in the size, strength, and take-care-of-your- 
self character of a young Canary. 

But Iam counting chickens too soon. The hens must lay 
the eggs first, and in performing this duty they sometimes give 
cause for uneasiness. A little observation and experience will 
soon indicate when a hen may be expected to lay, the lower 
part of the body being much distended. It may possibly be 
announced by the hen’s being geen in the middle of the day 

apparently in robust health, bustling about in a matronly 
fashion, and being found an hour or two later at the bottom of 
the cage with closed eyes and outstretched wings, the very picture 
of misery, and apparently hastening rapidly to her end. This 
need not cause any alarm. Itis allasit should be, and as Mrs. 
Gamp would say, ‘‘ Betsy ’Arris, she’ll ’aye to be worse afore 
she’s better.” Do not molest her in any way. She will manage 
eo find her way into the nest, and next morning the egg will be 
ere. 

But, if such should not be the case, and the hen be “ Epp. 
bound,” unable to lay, take her gently but firmly in the left 
hand, with the tail projecting between the thumb and first 


finger, and expose the vent freely to the steam of boiling waters 
by holding it over the neck of a jug about three parts full, which 
will generate vapour hot enough to make even the exposed part 
of the hand uncomfortable—a very good gauge. Give her two 
or three minutes of this vapour bath, and then let fall one or 
two drops of sweet oil on the vent, which by a spasmodic action 
will absorb it. Place the hen gently in her nest, and in nearly 
every instance she will lay almost immediately. 

Continue to supply fresh water daily, and if the hen feel dis- 
posed to have a bath, let her indulge. It will do good rather 
than harm. She will not often leave her nest to feed, and a 
little egg given now and then will be carried to her by the cock. 

When the hen has begun to sit, or sooner if need be, the cock 
may be passed through to the second hen if second hen there 
be. The loss of her mate may make her just a little restless at 
first, but her love for her eggs, and the instinct which leads her 
to sit on them will soon overcome this.—W. A. Buaxsron. 


VENTILATION OF HIVES. 


Tue prosperity of bees is dependant to some extent upon ihe 
material of which their hives are formed, but whether straw is 
greatly preferable to wood may admit of debate. Many give 
their verdict in favour of straw, because it possesses the excel- 
lent property of being a good non-conductor of heat or cold; but 
in the hot summer of last year the combs of several straw hives 
melted and fell down, whilst those of wooden boxes in the same 
situation sustained no injury. It is also alleged that hives of 
wood are much more liable to be afflicted with internal moisture 
than hives which are made of straw. De Gelieu, however, who 
had long experience in the use of both tells us, in effect, that 
he never could perceive any difference between them; and Mr. 
Lowe, who is a high authority, mentioned to me some time ago, 
that in his boxes, which are well protected by sheds, internal 
moisture isa thing unknown. Now this immunity which his 
bees enjoy from an evil with which our apiaries are occasionally 
visited is not due to ventilation or any of those appliances which 
have been recommended for carrying off vapours, and I am 
inclined to think that when these vapours are condensed, it is 
oftener to be ascribed to some peculiar state of the bees under 
unfavourable conditions of atmosphere than to the wood of 
which hives are made. 

The mode of ventilation employed by ‘‘ J. HE. B.” is a very 
good one, and I quite approve of the period when he begins to 
put it in practice; but the question I wished the ‘ Lanarx- 
SHIRE BEE-KEEPER”’ to answer referred to the propriety or non- 
propriety of having recourse to ventilation after the fall of snow, 
in order to prevent the exodus of bees. If the ventilating pro- 
cess is applied in November, will its virtue extend to early 
spring and operate in counteracting the evil influences of warm 
rays and reflected light which so often allure bees to destruc- 
tion? For several winters my unventilated boxes, whether 
wholly or partially protected, have been exempt from dampness, 
and I have had no reason for complaint since the winter of 
1864-5, when its presence was manifested in every kind of hive. 

The superiority of straw over wood is certainly not very great, 
and as there are many who would like to have boxes, but are 
deterred from getting them on account of the expense, they will 
perhaps be pleased to learn that this need be no longer an 
obstacle in their way; for bees will thrive well in any kind of 
wooden boxes, and it is not at all essential to their well-being 
that the boards of which the boxes are made should be an inch 
or an inch and a half in thickness, asis generally recommended. 
It is now seven years since I first made use of half-inch wood, 
and in domiciles made of this thin material, I have found that 
swarms wintered nearly, if not quite as well as in those which 
were made 1 inch thick, and of the best American yellow pine. 
Packing cases—such as those in which litchis are sent from 
China to this country make excellent hives. I have no doubt 
that plenty of them can be had in London for 6d. or 1s. each, 
and any person who can use a saw and hammer may with very 
little trouble reduce them to the dimensions required. I speak 
advisedly, having fully tested them. rao 

But whilst affirming that boxes of the description referred to 
will be found to answer the purposes of the apiarian very well, 
it must not be supposed that I regard them as in any degree 
superior to the more substantial and costly. The results, how- 
ever, which they give are very different from what their appear- 
ance would at first sight lead us to expect. 

As showing how capable bees are of passing successfully 
through a severe winter in thin wooden hives, I may relate an 
experiment which I made in October last. Having a small box 


266 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 6, 1871. 


made of 31-inch pive, I put into it six frames that were half 
filled with sealed honey. A swarm was then driven into it, and 
the entrance made to face the north. As the cover was only a 
quarter of an inch in thickness, I spread a small piece of carpet 
on the top, and surmounted the whole with a broad slate to throw 
off the rain. No other protection was given, yet on the 2ad of 
March, when I made an examination, I found that scarcely any 
of the bees had perished, although the thermometer during the 
winter had been several times within a few degrees of z2ro. The 
little hive was as strong and healthy as the best protected in my 
apiary. Its food, as I expected, was nearly exhausted, but then 
it is to be remembered the supply to begin with was deficient. 
The defect was easily remedied—I had only to remove the 


exterior frames, and put two well-filled ones in their places.— 
B.S. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


PoULTRY-YARD PLAN (J. K. O.).—We do not think you are undertaking 
too much. We presume the run marked & for tha chickens is grass. It 
should be. A cart shed is a good place for chickens to runin; still better 
if they can be put near to hayricks. Many of the fowls will roost in the 
cart shed; let them doso. If your roosting places c had the doors in 
one corner it would be better than in the middle. Let the open shed be 
some inches deep in road grit, and if anv runs have no grass, supply 
them with sods cut with plenty of earth. You will do better if you feed 
on ground oats mixed with water in the morning, with maize at mid-day, 
and oatmeal in the evening. 


No Eces—FeEepine (A. A. C.C.).—The cold winds and the unkind 
weather have had much to do in checking laying. Among the good 
things you provide for your poultry, we see no mention of any green food. 
If they have no grass they must be supplied with large sods cut with 
plenty of earth. We advise you to feed as we have recommended to 
“J. K. 0.” Discontinue potatoes, rice, and pearl barley. Instead of 
the mid-day meal of maize give your house scraps. You may sometimes 
vary the meal of ground oits by substituting Indian corn. The hen with 
the pendant crop should be confined for a time without water, and be fed 
with water having wormwood in it. By the term “take their food 
away,” we fancy you feed from a trough. If you do, discontinue it. It 
is an unnatural way to feed an avimal that has no means of masticating, 
and has caused the pendant crop of which you complain. The food 
should be thrown broadcast, that the birds may be occupied in picking it 
up in a natural way. 


BrauMA HENs not Lavine (4 Lancashire Subscriber).—Many hens have 
not yet begun to lay. If they were pullets you might have cause for com- 
plaint. The weather has been very unfavourable for laying. Now it 
seems changed we have no doubt you will have eggs. We shall not he 
surprised if yon have them before you read this. Discard all such 
notions as putting fowls before the fire. 
and lazy, and hinders laying. 


CocHIn Dyinc SuDDENLY (Subscriber of Many Years Standing).—lIt is 
not uncommon for a Cochin cock to drop off his perch dead at this 


season of the year, and the red appearance of the breast bone has nothing | 


in it contrary to perfect health. The empty state of the crop merely 
shows death took place some time in the morning, but before daylight. 
He died of rupture of the liver; but in such cases there is generally 
much coagulated blood in the heart. The eggs will be good for a fort- 
night oreven more. Eggs may be set safely after 2 hen has beenrunning 
a week with a cock. In January a cock should have only four hens if the 
eggs are for incubation. The number may he increased every month. 
Now he may have ten or twelve. Buenos Ayrean Ducks do not pair. 


Ducx-FooTeED DorxKInG (C. M.S.) —A duck foot isa disadvantage. but 
it is not a disqualification in a Dorking cock. We should, nevertheless, 
prefer a breeding bird without it. 


Brack INDIAN AND RovEN Ducks TOGETHER (Iendal).—You were mis- 
informed when you were told Buenos Ayreans will not cross. 
so freely. We have known a drake desert all the Ducks of his own breed 
and pair himself to a wild Duck. 


PRESERVING Eces (S.S.).—The usual mode is to bury eggs in slaked | 


lime and water. Be sure their shells are entire, and put them down when 
very fresh. Place them in layers, and as fast as a layer is completed pour 
on enough of the slaked lime to hide them. It will harden in a day or 
two, and then you may put a fresh layer, and so till the panis full. See 
what is said to-day about oiling eggs. Oatmeal, green food, and shreds 
of meat put in water are good food for young Ducks; they should be fed 
four times per day. 


Hens FIGHTING (Subscriber).—Take away the strangers, they willnever 
agree. The safest plan when you wish to introduce fresh birds is to put 
them on the perch with the others at night when it is quite dark. In 
time they would become reconciled, but it is not worth doing during the 
laying season. 

Fowzis TREspAssinc (F. Wood).—It would be illegal to shoot them. 
Your neighbour is bound to keep his fowls from trespassing; send him a 
written notice that if he do not you will sue him in the County Court. 
Galvanised-iron netting, 2 feet high, without any bar at the top, placed 
above the wall would prevent the intrusion. 


Pounttry Kereprme (E. Robinson).—As you do not understand how to 
manage them, enclose seven postage stamps with your address, and order 
the ‘‘ Poultry-Book ;” you will have it sent post free,and find init the 
information you ask for, and much more that you ought to know. 


Pouttry JUDGING AT WoopBRIDGE.—We have received a long letter 
from Mr. Douglas in reply to Mr. Watts. The essence of the reply is that 
Mr. Watts’s birds were out of condition, and the prize birds were hetter. 
We can insert no more on the subject of this Show, and regret to find so 
many complaints abont it. 

Mr. F. Granam’s P1cGEons.—We hear from one of the Secretaries of 
the Crystal Palace Show, that Mr. Graham’s Pigeons did not arrive there 
until the judging was nearly over. 3 


It tends only to make them fat | 


They do' 


Drones on Lapy-Day (E. Mills)—Your drones are early, and their 
appearance probably predicates an early disposition to swarm. You may 
certainly put on a super in April, if the hive appears crowded and the 
weather be favourable. 

Bees FIGHTING (R. M.).—If the hives are too close together the bees 
may mistake their homes on returning, which would account for the 
fizhting of which you complain. The remedy in this case would be to 
shift them gradually farther apart, little by little, until the quarrelling 
ceases. Or the same end would be more quickly obtained if you could 
move one of them for a few weeks to a new position not less than a mile 
and a half distant, taking care not to again place them too close together. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CaMDEN SquaRE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° S’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Date. In THE Day. 
1871. Temp. | perature. Tempera | 
Of) Soul [een | LI ES 
March. at 1ft. In | On 
Max. | Min. | sun. | grass 
deg. | deg. | deg.| deg. | deg. | In. 
We. 29 | 45 | 488 | 81.1 | $3.1 | 27.6 | 0.010 
Th. 30 43.7 F 89.6 | 87.2 | 866 | — 
Fri. 31 443 40.0 | 98.6 | 36.9 | — 
Sat. 1 45.2 38.2 | 92.4 | 36.7 | — 
Sun. 2 44.8 36.6 | $3.2 | 31.2 | 0.020 
Mo. 3 45.2 42.1 | 90.4 | 89.2 | — 
Tu. 4 45.4 87.6 |102.2 | 36.3 = 
Means 44.7 87.9 | 91.0 $4.9 | 0.030 
REMARES. 
29th.—Cloudy and damp in the morning, and slight rain at 8 p.m, heavier 


in the city. 
3)th.—Dull morning, but fine in the after-part of the day. 
3lst.—Fine and warmer, but windy at night. 
April 1st.— Overcast in the early part of the day, but finein the afternoon. 
2ad.—Dull morning, brighter about noon, but cold and dull at night. 
ord power in early morning, fine, but not much sun, except at in- 
tervals. 
4th.—Dull in morning, fine at noon, beautiful evening, occasionally very 
warm sun. Fine sunset. 5 
Another dry week, only three-hundredths of an inch of rain having 
fallen. Temperature very near the ayerage.—G. J. SYMONS. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Apriz 5. 


Some very good new Grapes have made their appearance, at from 20s. 
to 25s. per Ib. Of Strawberries there is a much larger supply than is 
wanted, and they are a drug on the market, not bringing more than from 
1s. to 1s. 6d. per oz. There is a better supply of French vegetables this 
week. We have no further alterations to report. 


Cucumbers ........ each Savoys.-- 
pickling -. doz. Sea-kale.. 
Endive.. -. doz Shallots . 
Fennel . «bunch Spinach... 
Garlic seen dD. Tomatoes . 
Herbs.... .. bunch Turnips ... . bunch 


FRUIT. 

8, da. is.0d s. 4. s. d 
Apples............48ieve 1 6 to3 0 | Mulberries...........- Ib. 0 Qto0 0 
Apricots ., ---. doz. 0 0 O 0} Nectarines doz. 0 0 OO 
Cherries.. -...lb. 0 0 0 0} Oranges. yYlo 6 10 0 
0 18 G| Peaches.. doz. 00 09 
0 O O| Pears, kitchen doz. 2 0 6 0 
0 00 dessert... doz. 8 0 8 0 
0 © 0} Pine Apples .-lb. 6 0 10 0 
0 62 0} Plums... }sieve 0 0 O98 
0 2 6) Quinces. doz. 0 0 00 
0 00 .lb 00 O00 
0 20 Q| Strawberries Oz 
Lemons... 0 10 0| Walnuts.... bushel 10 0 16 0 
Melons.... 00 00 GO..-cccsescesce 4100) 1 0) (2 0 

VEGETABLES. 
s.d. 8. da gf. d. 8. d 
Artichokes .........doz. 4 0to6 0 0 4%t00 6 
Asparagus ... #100 7 0 10 0 10 20 
Beans, Kidney .... 20 38.0 10 36 
road..... 00 00 02 00 
Beet, Red. PP) bh Gc? kt) 
Broccoli ........ bundle 0 9 1 6 00 00 
Brussels Sprouts..gsieve 3 0 4 0 Si 0956510 
Cabbage...... Ho Gee Tn) PD) 01:9" a1 0 
Capsicums . F100 00 00 0) ‘OS ¥0! (0 
Carrots..... -bunch 0 4 O 8 20 40 
Cauliflower. ---doz, 20 5 0 ° se. 3S 0 4 0 
Celery............bundle 16 2 0 doz.bunches 0 6 10 
Coleworts..doz. bunches 8 0 6 0 ee re 
ONG. 1-16 to) 20 
00 00 20 80 
2).0)) 5080, 06 00 
08 00 30 50 
08 00 00 00 
08 080 CP eee) 
80 60 00 00 


Vegetable Marrews..doz. 


POULTRY MARKET.—Aprit 5. 


THERE isa great scarcity of young poultry, and prices are very high. 
It will no doubt last for some time, as we are paying the penalty of the 
long winter. The laying and sitting were nil for some weeks. 


s. d. 8. d 8 d. s.d 
Large Fowls ........ 6 Oto6 6 | Pigeons .. 0 g tod 10 
Smaller ditto .. {ode \OMMIDI ED, Rabbits . L Sete 
Chickens .... - 4 0 4 6G | Wild ditto . 0. SS aD 
Ducklings .. “6 S80) S GiaKG: 0; SOs 0% 
Gostings .. 8 0 9 0 8) (Qieit8l 6 
Pheasants............ 0 0 0 0 Oe) 


April 13, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 267 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 

Daya} Da, Avera: ini x Clock | Da; 
ge Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun M M Moon’s iy 

Roan hiiot APRIL 13—19, 1871. ture near London. /48 years.) Rises. | Sets. Rises | isetse Age. Beton e ork 

Day. |Night’|Mean.| Days. |m. h.| m. h.| m. h.| m. h.| Days 8. 
13 | Ta | Royal Botanic Society’s Show closes. 55.6 | 83.9 | 44.7 17 llaf5 | 50af6 | 8af38 | 24al1 23 0 34 | 1038 
14 |F Princess BEATRICE Born, 1857. 57.0 | 86.1 | 46.6 17 9 5}52 6] 42 8) after. 24 0 19 | 104 
15 i) 58.4 | 87.8 | 48.1 21 7 5)53 6/11 4/54 1 95 0 4) 105 
16 | Sun | 1 Sunpay arrer Easter. 57.4 | 87.1 | 47.3 27 5 5|/55 6/381 4; 7 8 26 after. | 106 
17 M 58.2 | 35.8 | 47.0 15 2 5/57 6/50 4/19 4 27 0 25 | 107 
18 Tu | Meeting of Zoological Society, 9 p.m. 56.8 | 38.0 | 47.4 16 0 5/59 6} 6 5|29 5 28 0 89 |} 108 
19 W Royal Horticultural Society’s Spring Show, | 59.0 | 85.6 | 47.3 10 58 4/ 0 7] 22 5/387 6 @ 0 53 | 109 
[ Fruit, Floral, and General Meeting. 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 57.5°, and its night tem- 
perature Ree The greatest heat was 77°, on the 18th and 19th, 1854; and the lowest cold 20°, on the 15th, 1862. The greatest fall of 
rain was 0.56 inch. 


GREENHOUSE PLANTS.—No. 1. 


treat of some of the plants which, from the 
profusion and beauty of their flowers, or the 
colours and forms of their foliage, are desir- 


PRE able for the decoration of the greenhouse. 
p) The structure, however, having considerable 
@ effect on the plants grown in it, I must first 
a allude to that. 


A greenhouse, as we accept the term, is a 
s i glass structure devoted to plants not requir- 
ing a higher temperature than is sufficient to secure safety 
from frost; but we have a variety of plants to cultivate— 
some of these flower in summer, and therefore require to 
be kept from undue excitement in winter, and others flower 
in winter, and need a temperature of not less than 40°, 
though in very severe weather 35° may not be attended 
with injury, and from 40° to 45° isthe temperature which I 
consider should be kept up for the safety and well-doing of 
a mixed collection of greenhouse plants. Beyond this, 
fire heat is injurious. 

As distinguished from a conservatory I think a green- 
house is a plain structure of glass, with timber or iron, or 
a combination of both, and walls of brick or stone. No 
structure in the end is so dear as a frail one. Neither 
inside nor outside do you look for any attempt at orna- 
mental architecture, and the size and form are variable, 
being determined very often by the means. In a conserva- 
tory we look for something more than a plain glass struc- 
ture; we expect it will be in size proportionate to the 
mansion, and of a style, as regards its architecture, to 
harmonise with that mansion. Conservatories as a rule 
have considerable elevations—high upright fronts, and roofs 
very much higher than greenhouses, and this loftiness, com- 
bined with the greater obstruction to the light by the use 
of much more massive timbers, &c., renders them unfit in a 
great measure for the most desirable of greenhouse plants, 
except such as attain considerable size, and succeed, as 
do some remarkable for their foliage, in a not very light 
structure. However, conservatories of late years have 
been very much improved both in appearance and suita- 
bility for plant growth; and there ought not to be any 
material difference as regards light and ventilation between 
a conservatory and a greenhouse, though the former may 
be very different in size, loftiness, and architecture from a 
greenhouse. 

As regards the form of a greenhouse, there is no dis- 
puting the fact that a span-roof is the best; but the lean-to 
form is the more economical one, as very often advantage 
is taken of a wall already built, which is a great saving of 
first cost, and enables many to have a small greenhouse 
who otherwise could not have one. The great drawback of 
lean-to houses is that plants are inclined to become one- 
sided, but they may nevertheless be grown very well in 
such structures, yet not so good in form as in span-roofed 
houses, which admit light on all sides of the plants.. Ad- 
mitting light to the fullest extent consistent with a sub- 
stantial structure is perhaps the most important part of 

No. 524.—Vou. XX., New SERIBs. 


Nts this and subsequent papers I purpose to | 


greenhouse construction. Light on all sides of plants is 
the way to have them symmetrical. 

The next essential of a greenhouse is the means of 
admitting abundance of air, and to effect this the whole of 
the front lights should be made to open to an extent equal 
to half their height. For instance, the whole height being, 
say 4 feet, and the lights being hinged at top, they should 
open 2 feet at bottom, which will admit half the amount of 
air that there would be were the lights entirely removed, 
and just half that of lights hung on pivots. The latter, 
when the side lights are very high, is a good mode of open- 
ing; the front being divided into two parts, and the lower 
opening on pivots, as much air will be admitted as if the 
whole height were formed into lights hinged at the top, 
and half opened. 

At the highest part of the house provision should be 
made for openings quite equal to those in front, and these 
being provided throughout the length of the house, enough ~ 
air will be admitted for successful practice. If the house 
is a span-roof it is desirable that both sides should be 
formed so as to admit air; though this is not always done, 
yet it is very desirable. 

As regards the construction, the front wall of a lean-to 
or the side walls of a span-roofed house ought not to be 
more than 2 feet 3 inches high from the floor line, and the 
front lights of a lean-to or the side lights of a span not 
higher than 3 feet, nor less than 2 feet 6 inches. Along 
the whole of the front, and along both sides of a span, I 
prefer a stage of laths, their upper surface level with the 
bottom side of the wall plate, and 3 feet wide, taking the 
stage all round—along both ends of a lean-to and a span, 
wherever there is glass, except across the doors. The roof 
I would have at an angle of 45°, irrespective of width. 
This will give sufficient head-room over the pathway next 
the 3-feet stage along the front and both ends, and all 
round if a span; and in the case of a lean-to of considerable 
width there is no objection to a walk at the back, leaving a 
foot or 18 inches of space for a border, so as to utilise the 
back wall for plants. The remaining part not wanted for 
the walk, which walk need not be more than 3 feet wide for 
a greenhouse, may be disposed of as a step stage, the first 
shelf being on a level with the front or side stage, and the 
steps may be from 9 inches to a foot high, and as wide as 
you like, only I think 1 foot quite wide enough for the first 
shelf of the stage, and 6 inches increase for everyone, and 
the top the width of the steps on one side, or one-third 
the width of the central staging. Along the whole length 
of the front I would have a border 2 feet deep, and staging 
3 feet wide, for climbers for covering the roof. 

The front or side lights and the ends should have sup- 
ports to correspond with the roof timbers, and though they 
must be framed for opening, I should dispense with sash- 
bars altogether, and employ extra thick uprights and rafters, 
and instead of two, three, or more panes, have but one. 
The roof rafters to be 3 feet apart, with one sashbar be- 
tween each; panes thrice as long as wide, to have no 
lap, but straight joints, and immediately under each a 
small cross-bar of wood chamferred, and half an inch wide, 
, let into the rafter and sashbars level with the rebate; bed 
No. 1176.—Vou. XLV,, OLD SERIES. 


268 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 13, 1871. 


the panes there on white lead, fill the space between the cuts 
of the glass with it, and cover the joint outside with leai lead; 
glass 26-oz. to the foot, and thirds quality. Each rafter to 
have three wires for climbers, one immediately under the rafter, 
and the others on each side 7 inches distant, and 9 inches from 
the glass. 

Provision should be made to retain the water from the roof; 
a brick tank cemented is good. As to its size, that depends on 
the size of the house, but I find one with a content of a cubic 
foot for every 6 square feet covered will be sufficient for all but 
very dry periods. 

As regards heating, that will depend on circumstances—some 
heat with hot-air flues, some use a stove, but most now adopt 
hot water. For houses not over 15 feet wide a 4-inch flow-and- 
return pipe along the front and one end will be sufiicient for a 
lean-to, or for a span of that width two 4-inch pipes along both 
sides, adding two for every 9 feet of width. This will main- 
tain a sufficiently high temperature.—G. ABBEY. 


TAP ROOTS. 


‘‘ Axp what about them ? The less we hear or see of them the 
better,” many will say; but everyone is not of that opinion, 
and I am one of them; for, where the subsoil, as well as the 
surface soil, is suitable, and the plant sends down tap roots, 
it is only obeying one of those laws of Nature which we 
cannot amend, excepting, perhaps, in the case of some of the 
tenderest fruits. That these may or may noi suffer injury by 
a single root or fwo descending perpendicularly from the collar, 
Tam not prepared to give a decided opinion; but all our orna- 
menial and forest trees must be benefited by it, otherwise 
Nature would not prompt them to do so. Iam not sure that 
some of our failures in transplanting certain subjects do not 
arise from the fact of their tap roots haying been ruthlessly 
severed, and thus more injury is, perhaps, inflicted on a plant 
than is ever apparent the first year. 

Let us take, for instance, some of the Cypress tribe, whose 
dense heavy tops present an obstacle to the wind, but cannot 
always withstand it, and a blow-down is the result. Now, are 
we sure the same effect would have been produced had there 
been a good hold of mother earth by means of a formidable tap 
root? Most assuredly this would have offered a resistance to 
the wind, which otherwise the tree was unable to give. Let us 
look at trees that are blown down, and we shall generally find 
the tap roots have decayed, or there has not been any. Cer- 
tainly there are some trees not prone to produce tap roots, as 
the Ash and Sycamore, but many do make this growth when 
not thwarted by anything in their way, and most likely if the 
best examples of trees we have were examined, a great pro- 
portion of them would be found with this essential fastening to 
their position. 

Considering how beneficial a part a tap root has on the well- 
being of single plants, and how desirable it is in removing 
them to another place to take care and place it in a similar 
position again, there are certainly cases where this rule must 
be accepted with some modification, as in the case of seedlings 
crowded together. We all know that the first instinct of a 
plant just bursting from its seed vessel is to send its root 
downwards in search of food and maintenance; and if that seed 
be thickly surrounded by others like it, each must do the same, 
and, further, continue to do so for the very reason that there 
is not space for the roots to travel laterally, the ground being 
fully occupied with these; consequently the root becomes more 
elongated then it would be where there is more space for each 
specimen. In removing these seedlings a portion of the root 
is almost, as a matter of necessity, cut off, so as to induce the 
formation of laterals. This cutting off, however, is only to be 
recommended as making amends for the injuries caused by the 
former artificial mode in which the plant has been treated, for 
assuming # case of Nature’s sowing, we there have the seeds 
wide apart, and no check to the production of lateral roots any 
more than there is to these becoming vertical, and the plant, 
suiting itself to circumstances, makes both as the nature of the 
ground and other conditions permit. Our noblest trees have 
all, doubtless, had such an origin, and what can exceed them 
in beauty and interest? In the greater number of cases, there- 
fore, I say let tap roots alone, for if the ground be suitable for 
them they will do good service, and if not, they will cease to 
act; but in the latter case there is much doubt of the specimen 
doing well. Perhaps those having most reason to find fault 
with tap roots are those who have large trees to grub up; they 
find a good tap root more troublesome than they would wish, 


and even in their case the tree. maintains an upright position 
longer than it otherwise would.—J. Rozson. 


THE GOLDEN PYRETHRUM. 


I BELIEVE that fewer plants among the many novelties which 
have been recently introduced for summer flower-gardening 
have obtained a greater notoriety, or obtained a wider circulation 
than the Golden Pyrethrum. This I consider very good evidence 
of its general adaptability for the purpose. Still there are 
situations in which if planted it will fail to give satisfaction, 
and this will, I think, account in some measure for the tco 
sweeping condemnation it has received from some of your cor- 
respondents. 

For instance: if planted on an inclined surface, where in all 
probability it will receive little water during the summer, I 
know of no plant so ill-adapted for such a position. It would 
be an eyesore all the season. Again, when unevenly matched 
with a larger and a grosser-feeding plant, it is never seen in 
its true character, its bigger neighbour appropriating to itself 
the lion’s share of the ground’s fertility. But the case is 
different when this Pyrethrum is planted in ordinary soil that 
has been well worked and moderately manured during the 
winter. With a modest grower like itself for a companion, 
and the necessary attention paid it during the summer, in 
picking all flower buds off as they appear—a process which 
involves very little labour, as a man can easily go over a 
thousand plants in a couple of hours—if a fair trial be given 
I venture to say that this plant would establish itself in the 
estimation of those who now despise it. My object in noticing 
it is, however, not so much to advocate its summer cultivation 
as to draw the attention of your readers to its excellence as a 
spring bedder. I have grown it extensively as such for the 
last two seasons, and can unreservedly recommend it as one of 
the easiest-grown and most efiective plants for that purpose. 

To procure plants for the spring I allow the summer ones to 
remain in the ground all the winter, until about the middle of 
March, when I take them up and divide them, retaining as 
many roots attached to the ofisets as possible—Owen THouAs. 


CULTURE OF STRAWBERRIES IN POTS. 


A CORRESPONDENT complains, that though he has fine plants, 
he obtains little fruit, and these no better than water. He 
places his pots on a stage under the shade of climbers and 
Vines. Even with abundance of air, the bloom will set imper- 
fectly, and though the fruit will swell when set it can have 
little flavour without unobstructed light. 

Another correspondent has tried a narrow hot-water pit with 
a temporary stage, so that the pots may be 1p or 18 inches from 
the glass; but here, though the plants grow well and show fine 
flower trusses, these often set badly in dull weather, as the leaves 
and flowers are covered with condensed moisture. In this re- 
spect low flat-roofed pits are greatly inferior to a steep-roofed 
house for early forcing. Later in the season such pits answer 
very well. For early work I have found every corner of the 
green leaf and every notch in the bloom, as well as the parts of 
fructification, glistening in the morning with large bright dew- 
drops. A little of this is all very well, but too much of it 
makes the fertilising pollen as much inert paste. In such 
places a whole day with air on, and a little additional heat 
when the weather is heavy and muggy, will hardly be sufficient 
to dry the plants, and especially the parts of fructification. If 
the pit is sunk below the ground level this will be all the more 
likely in early forcing, however the pots be placed on a stage. 
The best remedy in such cases is to give a little more dry heat, 
leave air on, if onlya quarter of an inch at the top and bottom, 
ali night, and cover the glass at night with mats, ealico, or any 
thin covering. This covering, however thin, as it arrests the 
radiation of heat, will greatly prevent the condensation of 
yapour and the deposition of dew freely on all parts of the 
plants. For early forcing I prefer to a pit a larger steeper- 
roofed house. 

Though using saucers for Strawberry pots when on shelyes 
over other plants that would be injured by the drip, I do not 
approve of them when they can be dispensed with, and when 
used, the water, after watering, should not be allowed to stand 
in them. Hence I have used thin turf reversed for setting the 
pots on, which answers very well if one can fruii the plants 
where thus set, but it does not answer well when the plants 
have to be moved from place to place, Moss covered with a 


April 13, 1871. ] 


little leaf mould algo answers very well, and such pots may be 
moved with a little care, taking the moss with them, and along 
with it the roots which have protruded through the bottom of 
the pot. These modes are chiefly resorted to to save watering, 
and to have a moist bottom for the pots without the chance of 
standing water. The result, however, of some experience leads 
me to the conclusion that with extra waterings Strawberry 
plants in pots never do better than when the pots stand on a 
hard substance, as a wood, stone, or slate shelf, and where 
the roots have no enticement to come out at the bottom. The 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


269 


dditional watering then required, sometimes|twice on a bright 
day, appears to give a greater strength to the plant and a larger 
size to the fruit if weak manure water be frequently used. I 
am certain that many an amateur who tries Strawberries in 
his little house often comparatively fails, because he makes the 
Strawberry a marsh plant by allowing the saucers to stand 
nearly full of water. Let me advise a fair trial of dispensing 
with the saucers and watering oftener, using a little rich com- 
pear at the surface of the pot and weak manure waterings.— 

. FISH. 


GROUND LEVELLING AND PRACTICAL GARDEN PLOTTING.—No. 15. 
DRAWING PLANS. 


To draw and transfer 
fig. 38 to the ground, 
draw the rectangle AB 
c p, and the diameter 
lines EF andGH; draw 
lines 1 2, 8 4, also lines 
5 6, 7 8, 9 10, 11 12, 
13 14, 15 16, 1718, and 
19 20. From centre o 
draw ares 7 and &; from 
point g draw arcs u, v, w 
and the circle g; from 
point e, on line cu, draw 
ares 7, 7, s, t. Draw the 
corresponding side in the 
same manner. 

To transfer the plan to 
the ground, erect the 
rectangle a Bc D, the 
length of the side a B 
being 53 feet, and Bc 
89 feet Ginches. Insert 
stakes at each point, and 
lay lines connecting 
them; line cp is equal 
to line A B, and line 
A D equal to line Bc. 


a string 9 feet long, trace 
are 7; reduce the string 
4 feet and trace the circle. 
As the lines are traced, 
insert pegs 6 or 7 inches 
apart. From the stake 
at point = measure 4 feet 
on line EF, and inserta 
peg as at point gy. From 
the peg at point g, with 
a string 17 feet long, 
trace are w; reduce the 
string 4 feet, and trace 
are v (the width of the 
walk is 4 feet); again re- 
duce the string 5 feet, 
which is the width of the 
beds, and trace arc w ; re- 
duce the string 4 feet, 
and trace the circle g. 
From the stake at point 
F, on line F E, measure 
4 feet, and insert a peg 
as at point 2; points h 
and g are equal. From 
the peg at point h trace 
the ares corresponding 


Lay the diameter lines 
EF and aH. Where the 
two lines cross each 
other insert @ peg as 
at centre o. From the 
stake at point A, on 
line A D, measure 15 feet 
6 inches, and insert a 
peg as at point 5; from 
the same stake measure 
19 feet 6 inches, and in- 
sert 2 peg as at point 7; 
from the same stake 
measure 24 feet 6 inches, 
and insert a peg as at 
point 9. Again, from the 
same point measure 
28 feet 6 inches, and in- 
sert a peg as at point 11. 
Find the corresponding 
points on line 8c in the 
same manner, and insert 
pegs asat points 6, 8, 10, 
and 12. On each side of 
line = F measure 2 feet, 
and insert pegs as at 
points a, b,c, d. From 
the peg at centre 0, with 


Fig. 88. Scale 16 feet to the inch. 


to u, v, and w, and also 
the circle as traced 
from point g. On each 
side of centre o measure 
20 feet on the line c H; 
insert a peg at each point,. 
as at e. From the 
peg at e, with a string 
20 feet long, trace are f, 
meeting line 5 6; reduce 
the string 4 feet, and 
trace are r, meeting line 
7 8; yveduce the string 
5 feet, and trace are s, 
meeting line 9 10; again 
reduce the striug 4 feet, 
and trace arc t, meeting 
line 1112. Lay lines by 
the pegs inserted at the 
ares traced. Find the 
corresponding gide in the 
same manner. Insert 
pegs and lay the lines. 
Lines, Box; 8, beds; w, 
walks; v, vase. — M. 
O‘DonnELL, Gardener to 
E. Leeming, Hsq., Spring 
Grove, Richmond. 


RED-LEADING SEEDS—RATS AND MICE. 


I wave been much interested in the communications which 
have from time to time appeared on the subject of red-leading 
seeds with the view of saving them from the attacks of pre- 
datory vermin. Of the value of red lead for coating seeds before 
Sowing, I have long held a high opinion, having for many years 
found the results of the practice very satisfactory. Cireum- 
stances, however, must have altered, for I have of late had 
many evidences of the non-protective property of red lead. 
The first imstance was laet year—whole rows of Peas were 


cleared at night as cleverly as it could have been done by 
hand in daylight; the Peas were carried off as soon as 
sown, and taken some distance away, I presume to be eaten at 
leisure. SRR 
“ Ah, but if the rats devour red-leaded Peas it will kill them, 
some one will say, as I know many have said, ‘‘for it is 
poison.” It may have done so in some instances, but in my 
case it does nothing of thekind. They feed on what they get— 
finer and heavier specimens of the true Hanoverian rat I have 


270 


not seen; indeed, they are fat, sleeky fellows, more like half- 
grown rabbits than rats. 

The Hanoverian rat is a perfect gourmand. Nothing comes 
amiss—flesh raw or cooked, grain, Peas hard as bullets, and 
Peas softened by moisture and just sprouting; and his dex- 
terity is shown in ascending Pea sticks, and nibbling off the 
pods, taking them to a place where he can eat them at leisure. 
Greens, especially young Cauliflower plants, he eats to the 
stump, and salads are his delight, Lettuces being cut over as if 
be were showing how to cut Mustard and Cress. To the juice 
of the Vine many know to their cost his liking, and to Grapes 
he is partial; mounting the Vines he makes a point of more 
than tasting, and generally prefers the Muscats ; of the Black 
Muscat of Alexandria, or Muscat Hamburgh, he is peculiarly 
fond. Apples and Pears please him well; and Strawberries 
must have been studied, for Black Princes are passed over, but 
not so anything with the Queen flavour. Of his cunning I 
could say much, of his skill more, while his sagacity is great. 

Bats and mice have taken the whole of four rows of Peas 
well red-leaded before sowing, and what is most remarkable 
have selected for their early depredations the wrinkled Marrows. 
They evidently know the flavour of Peas, having left early sorts 
until the last. Tom Thumb under walls, and Dickson’s First 
and Best, they did not touch so long as there was a row of 
wrinkled Marrows left. Last year, as already stated, they took 
the Peas as soon as sown, and some of the rats I saw crawling 
about during the day apparently repenting of what they had 
eaten in such haste; but this year they wait until the radicle 
is from 1 to 1} inch long, and the plumule commencing its 
upward journey ; then, and not till then, do they take the Peas, 
leaving the outer red-leaded covering behind as evidence of their 
skill in manipulation, indicating that they know what is in- 
jurious to them as well as I do, or, at least, letting me see that 


they have found out a way of obtaining what they want without | 


partaking of the repast I had provided for them. If I set traps 
in the rows they take all the Peas except where the traps are, 
being very careful not to put their feet on the ‘‘ table.” There- 
fore, the older the wiser they are. The same is true of mice; 
traps they will not take, and newly red-leaded Peas they will 
not eat except when the radicle is taking hold of the soil, then 
they split the Peas. 

Against the mice our cat does excellent service, and I have 
hope, for I occasionally hear an owl. 
ally ; weasels came to our aid, but by accident they haye come 


to their end, being caught in the traps set not for them but the | 


rats. It was pleasing to see them running about, stopping 
every now and then to listen, advancing if no noise, retreating 
if anything betokened danger. It was especially gratifying, for I 
knew they were enemies of the rat. Weasels and owls area 
-boon to any gardener. They injure nothing belonging to his 
charge, and it is a pity we do not find such helpers preserved. 
Passing over such considerations, however, I have come to the 
conclusion, that though I have hitherto found red lead a de- 
terrent, it is not infallible against rats and mice. They are too 
cunning for traps, know how to split Peas, and have proved 
proof against poison so called, eating enough to kill all there 
were. But still, on they come. Query, Is there any poison 
rats and mice will take when food is plentiful and when it is 
scarce? The chemist must tell—G. AnBery. 


VERONICA CHAMADRYS. 


I rane that this is a charming British plant, and as far as 
I can see, the whole family of Veronica are inclined to give us 
something in the way of variegation. I have four varieties of 
Veronica Chamzdrys—namely, three Kentish, and one which I 
found in Buckinghamshire last autumn. Two of the varieties 
from Kent are inconstant, but one of a self colour—of a creamy 
yellow tint—is very pretty in the spring, and I think itis the 
most striking of the variegated forms of Veronica Chamedrys. 
It is of the easiest propagation, and is at its best in March and 
April. When better known this plant must become a favourite. 
Cuttings taken in November, seven or eight of them placed in 
a 48-sized flower pot, struck in a cold frame, and planted out 
entire in February, will make a very attractive edging for a 
spring flower border, or may be planted out in patches in the 
mixed herbaceous border. This Veronica loses its variegation 
during the summer, but regains it during the autumn and 
winter. There is also a very pretty white-margined variety in 
the nursery trade, but in the mass the self-coloured kind beats 
it by far, particularly at a short distance. 

I hope young gardeners will study British botany when they 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


Last summer we had an | 


[ April 13, 1871. 


are out on their evening walks. There is nothing very difficult 
about it. Collect, name, and mount, say, two hundred species 
during each season; for a beginner dried plants are much better 
to refer to than trusting to memory or even coloured engravings, 
for gcod engravings, well coloured, are very expensive, and gene- 
ely out of the reach of the ordinary run of young gardeners. 


HOP CULTIVATION FOkK ORNAMENT AND USE. 


No. 4. 

Tue antidote to the mildew was parent to one for the aphis. 
An active body of intelligent and wealthy individuals like the 
Hop-growers, were not likely to sit down quietly and see their 
hopes blighted year after year; and as they had by dint of 
perseverance gained their point with the Chancellor of the 
Exchequer in freeing Hops from the imposts of the Excise, 
they tried to obtain tobacco duty free for the purpose of de- 
stroying green fly, and to 4 certain extent succeeded. In the 
meantime, however, the spirit of inquiry was aroused, and 
experiments were made. Soft soap was a likely ingredient to be 
distasteful to the aphis, if not fatal to it, and trial was made by 
mixing it with tobacco; the result being satisfactory, smaller 
quantities of the dearer article were used, until it was found 
that soft soap alone answered the purpose, and as the duty-free 
tobacco did not act well as an addition to the soft soap, and 
was still more inconvenient when employed alone, its use has 
been in a great measure abandoned. The demand for soft 
soap, especially in 1869, was so great that it is not unlikely to 
influence the price in future years; thousands of casks of it 
were used and with good results, for, as a Hop-grower justly 
observed to me many years ago, that if he did not save his 
crop the season he dressed his plants, still by keeping them 
healthy he felt he was doing his best to secure a crop in the 
next year, and this has often been the case. Timely and 
judicious washings, however, have not unfrequently been re- 
warded with a fair crop the same season, where, in the absence 
of such measures, a total blank would have been the result. 

I have stated that a season rarely occurs in which the aphis 
does not make its appearance more or less; if the insects are 
only in moderate numbers and the ladybirds are about, the 
grower is satisfied, provided the plant pushes on in its growth ; 
nevertheless, he watches them daily. Taking off a leaf one 
day he counts, perhaps, thirty lice on it, and on traversing his 
grounds he finds that number about equal to the average. 
The next day he repeats his visit of inspection, and finds he 
can on an average count ten more enemies on each leaf than 
he did on the previous day, and probably another day brings 
another increase—he becomes uneasy, goes home, consults his 
barometer, and looks at the sky to see if there is any prospect 
of a thunderstorm, and very likely consults an old servant who 
has the reputation of being a good judge of the coming weather ; 
but if there is no hope of thunder, which is a great preventive 
of insect depredations, he seriously prepares for the washing. 
The materials he has by him. Some of the soft soap is boiled 
in an extemporised copper, for it will not readily mix with cold 
water, although the latter is used to dilute it afterwards. The 
strength of the mixture is generally 10 lbs. of soft soap to 
100 gallons of water. Engines somewhat resembling a small 
fire-engine have been manufactured for the purpose, the most 
common being made with two injection points, with a few feet 
of flexible hose to each, and one working handle. One man 
works the latter while other two guide the discharge. The 
machine being on wheels and having to be moved very often, 
other men carry the liquid to it in pails from some supply near 
at hand. Of course, the men are directed to syringe only the 
plants that are affected, and they quickly get into the way of 
discerning those attacked. The consumption of soft soap on a 
dozen acres is considerable, especially as the washing is gene- 
rally repeated once or oftener ; nevertheless, the good effects of 
the application are so generally admitted, that its use is all but 
general. Those not employing soft soap do not deny its utility, 
but are simply deterred on the score of expense, or it may bs 
in a yery few instances from prejudice. : 

Having described the mode adopted to combat the aphis 
scourge, I now come to a not-less serious evil—the Mildew or 
Mould, which, unlike the aphis, is much more difficult to 
encounter, and in its visitations is both partial and mysterious = 
one Hop garden may be attacked with it, so that not a single 
Hop will be worth picking, while another but a very short 
distance off will not be affected; and yet both may have been 
alike in every respect as regards site, cultivation, and other 
conditions. Some grounds have been affected with mildew for 


April 13, 1871. ] 


‘several years in succession. Itis also more injurious to the 
cultivator than the aphis, for while the latter lessens the crop, 
it often happens that what is produced is of good quality, and 
commands a fair price, but buyers will not look at a sample 
that has been mouldy. 

Moist warm seasons are said to encourage mould, and some 
varieties of Hops are more liable to it than others, the Golding, 
the most valuable Hop, being most so of any; and well-culti- 
vated grounds are as liable to suffer as those which are not so. 
Remedial measures have been adopted of late years, and al- 
though it is too much to say the disease is entirely preventible, 
it is in a great measure so, and the acreage that has been 
affected to a serious extent during the last three or four years 
is certainly smaller than it used to be twelve or fifteen years 
ago. There is reason to infer that the measures adopted to 
arrest the progress of the disease have done much good. The 
modes of doing this have certainly been less varied than those 
adopted with the aphis, for sulphur is used now ag it was twenty 
years ago, but the mode of applying it has been improved, and 
sulphurators are amongst the implements met with at agricul- 
cultural shows in the Hop districts. The most approved are 
strong and heavy, requiring a horse to draw them along the 
alleys between the Hops; the movement given to the wheels 
turns the machinery, which is very much like that of an ordin- 
ary corn-winnowing machine, only instead of the sulphur being 
plown out at one end asit is in the winnower, itis blown straight 
upwards in the sulphurator (flour brimstone or sulphur vivum 
is used), the feeder being at another place, A boy leads the 
‘horse, and a man behind, protected by suitable clothing, guides 
the machine, a cloud of sulphur falling on the foliage all round, 
and a considerable share on the man who guides the apparatus ; 
but so beneficial are the results that most large growers apply 
sulphur prior to the time mould is expected, and there is little 
doubt that as a preventive it is of great value.—J. Ropson. 


THE CUCUMBER DISEASE. 


ArrEeR having had my share of the Cucumber disease, and 
sonfessing my perfect ignorance of the cause or cure, I regret to 
find that some of the best Cucumber growers in the country 
have been baffled with this disease for several years, and, like 
myself, are as ignorant of the cause asever. I could do nothing 
by way of remedy, except by sowing and planting often, for by 
the time a few fruit were produced the disease would appear, 
and then no treatment was of any use. 

Ihave had several applications for a remedy. Sorry I am 
to repeat what I have frequently stated—that I know of none, 
and but one alleviation, and that is frequent planting. I have 
many suggestions before me as to change of seed and soil, 
composts, temperature, air-giving, watering, &c. All I willsay 
is, that it is proper to try every means; but I tried all, and all 
were in vain. I had seed from all parts of the country; I had 
maiden loams and soils of all kinds, including heath soil pure 
and unmixed, and all conceivable mixtures of the same; and 
whether in a pit heated by hot water or ina dung-bed frame, 
in ridges under hand-lights, or in the open garden without 
anything, just when the plants began to fruit the spot on the 
‘leaf, and sometimes a gummy exudation from the fruit, would 
appear, and then all was about over. That I am not troubled 
with the disease at present is no merit on my part. There are 
old friends of mine, one of whom I have noticed years ago in 
this Journal as perhaps one of the most successful Cucumber 
growers I ever met with, who have been plagued with the disease 
for several years, whilst neighbours are perfectly free from the 
disease whether they plant in a house, frame, or ridge. 

I have several times alluded to this perplexing subject, and 
T would not have done so at present but for the fact that the 
disease is making some good gardeners uncomfortable with 
their employers, who ascribe the failure to want of skill and 
attention. Although everything possible should be done and 
tried, stil], were I at liberty to give the names of successful 
Cucumber growers who have suffered from the disease, and 
feeling my own inability after many experiments to find out 
the cause or cure, I hope that employers will be inclined to 
sympathise with their gardeners on this subject, and not make 
it a source of more unpleasantness than they already feel. 
Some of the most successful Cucumber growers made light of 
the disease until their turn came. One of them last season 
found that in a fine span-roofed house heated by hot water, in 
a lean-to heated by a flue, in a brick pit with fermenting mate- 
rial beneath the soil, in a ridge under hand-lights, in the open 
ground without anything, and also in the-open air with the 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. a7 


plants trained against a wall—anywnhere and everywhere—the 
disease showed itself; and after trying every mode to arrest its 
progress he felt himself powerless. I should, therefore, feel 
sorry if any good gardener were rendered uncomfortable and 
obliged to leave his situation because he could not conquer this 
disease, for as yet, from the highest to the lowest, we know 
nothing at all about it. That is a good reason for finding a 
remedy, but it is no reason why those who are suffering under 
the misfortune should be unduly depressed. The same prin- 
ciple would have applied to the Potato disease, only so far, un- 
fortunately, that was more general than the Cucumber malady. 
It will be of no use for those who have never had their Cucum- 
bers diseased to give their opinions and speculations. I used 
to have much of such well-meant kindly help, but it was of no 
use, as some of my advisers found to their cost before many 
months were over. The great thing is to find out from those 
who have been tried something like cause and effect, malady 
and cure.—R. Fisu. 


ROYAL BOTANIC SOCIETY'S SPRING SHOW. 


Tuis Show commenced yesterday on a day which offered a cheerful 
contrast both in its warmth and brightness to those which we have so 
long experienced ; and the exhibition which will close this evening is 
not less bright than was the opening day. Roses form its principal 
feature, and when we say that the principal exhibitors are Mr. Turner, 
of Slough, Messrs. Paul & Son, Mr. W. Paul, and Messrs. Veitch, 
these names will be sufficient guarantee for the excellence of the spe- 
cimens placed before the public. Mr. Turner is first and Messrs. 
Paul & Son second for nine, and in the collection of the latter is a 
magnificent specimen of Madame de St. Joseph, which was awarded a 
special certificate for excellence of cultivation. Extra prizes were 
given to Mr. W. Paul and Messrs. Veitch for their extensive and beau- 
tifully bloomed collections. Among amateurs the prizetakers are Mr. 
Baxter and Mr. James. The latter also shows fine examples of Ama- 
ryllis, including the varieties sent by him last week to Kensington. 

Azaleas are shown in excellent bloom by Messrs. Lane, and we par- 
ticularly noticed Minerva, a free-flowering orange scarlet, and Princess 
Alice, pure white. A first prize was awarded to Messrs. Lane, the 
second going to Mr. G. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart., 
the former exhibitors being also first for twelve compact finely-flowered 
Rhododendrons, for six plants of Deutzia gracilis in excellent bloom, 
and for a collection of forced hardy shrubs, consisting of Rhododen- 
drons, Azalea pontica, and Deutzia. 

The best collection of hardy herbaceous plants in flower comes from 
Mr. Ware, of Tottenham, who has the lilac-flowered variety of 
Primula cortusoides blooming very freely, double Wallflowers, Dielytra 
spectabilis, Spirea japonica, Lily of the Valley of the ordinary and 
variegated kinds, and Triteleia uniflora well bloomed. Mr. Wheeler 
is second. Mr. Ware receives also an extra prize for a collection in 
which the little heart-leaved white-flowered Smilacina bifolia is very 
elegant. Dielytras and Lily of the Valley are but of moderate 
quality. Mr. Wheeler takes a first prize for each, and a second prize 
for Cinerarias, Mr. James, gardener to W. F'. Watson, Esq., Isleworth, 
being first. A similar award was made to Mr. Goddard, gardener to 
H. Little, Esq., Twickenham, for well-grown Mignonette, and to 
Messrs. Paul & Son for cut Roses. 

Mr. Wheeler is the only exhibitor of twelve greenhouse plants in 
flower, and takes a first prize for a collection which does not call for 
remark, and also obtains extra prizes for fine-foliaged plants and 
exotic Ferns. Messrs. Lane contribute a large collection of Roses, 
Azaleas, &c; Messrs. Rollisson, Mr. Williams, and Messrs. A. Hen- 
derson, groups of Palms, Orchids, and mixed stove and greenhouse 
plants; Mr. Goddard and Mr. James, Cyclamens, and the latter an 
excellent stand of Pansies; Messrs. Carter & Co. baskets of their new 
Tricolor and Bronze Pelargoniums ; and Mr. Needle the collection of 
Orchids and Ophrys shown last week at Kensington. For all the 
above extra prizes were given. 

Botanical certificates were awarded to Messrs. Veitch for Acer poly- 
morphum palmatifidum, with beautifully cut bright green foliage, and 
very elegant in its appearance ; to Messrs. A. Henderson & Co. for 
Malortica speciosa ; to Messrs. Rollisson for Euterpe antioquensis, a 
graceful slender-leayed Palm suitable for dinner-table decoration ; and 
to the same firm for Tillandsia argentea, with narrow greyish leaves, 
a rather graceful-looking plant. A floral certificate was given to Mr. 
Williams for an Amaryllis called hybrida gizantea, with white flowers 
feathered with crimson, and said to be a hybrid between an Amaryllis 
and Lilium giganteum, the flowers haying long slender tubes like the 
latter, but it has been suggested that it is more likely to be a hybrid 
between Amaryllis yittata and solandriflora. Mr. Little also received 
a floral certificate for his fine white Cyclamen Snowflake. 


GLADIOLI. 


How well I remember years ago being the first to introduce these 
lovely bulbs into the neighbourhood in which I then resided—the 
intense interest with which I watched the first break of the green 
spike through the ground—how spasmodic was their arrival—how I 
despaired in many instances of their appearing at all, and with what 
joy I welcomed their advent when I had finally abandoned all hope! 


272 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


I may, perhaps, be permitted to tell how I treated them, as I certainly | its pleasing colour. 


was eminently successful in growing them. They were planted in 
March, in one of the circular beds on the lawn, in a rich compost of 
light sandy loam mixed with thoroughly decayed horsedung, the whole 
well sifted through an ordinary gardener’s sieve. They were then 
planted about 3 inches, or rather less, beneath the soil, and 8 inches 
apart; but I believe their success was mainly attributable to their 
being watered twice a-week with the diluted sewage from a cesspool. 
Certainly I have never seen the Gladiolus attain such a size either as 
to the stalk or bulb, and I did not follow the usual course now adopted 
of taking them up in the autumn, but I covered the bed with a coating of 
leaves 6 or 8 inches thick. I never lost a single bulb, and what giants 
they were! Eventually they became so numerous that I was com- 
pelled to take them up and divide them. 

I have lately been shown Appleby’s fumigator. What a boon it is 
to the gardener! What a saving ‘of time, of health, and of incon- 
venience !—Horrartor. 


PORTRAITS OF PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND 
FRUITS. 


Costus Matorrinanus (Malortian Costus). Nat. ord., Scitam- 


nacew. Linn., Monandria Monogynia.—Native of northern 
Costa Rica. Flowers yellow, striped with scarlet.—(Bot. Mag., 
t. 5894.) 


GILIA LInIFLoRA (Flax: flowered Gilia). Nat. ord., Polemoni- 
aces. Linn., Pentandria Monogynia.—Hardy annual, intro- 
duced by Mr. W. Thompson, Ipswich. Native of California. 
Flowers white.—(Ibid., t. 5895.) 

Nornoscorpum aurrum (Golden-flowered Nothoscordum). 
Nat. ord., Liliacex. Linn., Hexandria Monogynia.—Native of 
California. Flowers yellow.—(Jbid., t. 5896.) 

Brconia crinita (Slender-haired Begonia). Nat. ord., Be- 
goniacee. Linn., Moncecia Polyandria.—Native of the Bolivian 
Andes, South America. Introduced by Messrs. Veitch. Flowers 
pale rose.—(Ibid., t. 5897.) 

CuLorocopon Waiter (Mr. White’sChlorocodon). Nat. ord., 
Asclepiadacer. Linn., Pentandria Digynia.—Native of Natal, 


where it is called ‘‘Mundi-root.” A lofty climber.—(Ivid., 


t. 5898.) 

AZALEA INDICA VARIETIES.—‘' Fanny Tillery was obtained 
at Welbeck as a sport from the variety called Triomphe de 
Gand. The other, Acme, is, we believe, a seedling. The rais- 
ing of seedlings is very interesting, but with the greatest care 
and judgment in selecting the parents, it is a lottery with a 
great number of blanks to one prize. Mr. Kinghorn, whose 
name is s0 intimately associated with these plants, informs us 
that he finds in his own experience ‘that it is of the first 
importance to select as the seed-bearing parent one that has 
attained every point of excellence, particularly form and sub- 
stance of bloom, and a good habit of growth; while in the 
pollen-bearing or male parent it is equally important to choose 
one that has some desirable quality of colour or marking. 

“Fanny Tillery is, a8 we have just said, a sport from that 
called Triomphe de Gand, obtained some three or four years 
since by Mr. Tillery of Welbeck. It has, we hear, a strong 
healthy habit, and is a profuse bloomer, the flowers keeping 
perfectly true as to colour and marking. ‘None of the varie- 
gated section which I have seen,’ observes its fortunate pos- 
sessor, ‘equals it for bright colour and effect.’ The flowers 
are of average size, of a bright rosy-pink colour, the upper 
segments vichly spotted with deep crimson, sometimes nearly 
over the whole surface of the central one, and the edge being 
of a pure white breaking inwards in an irregularly feathered 
manner. The flowers which were sent to Mr. Fitch were six- 
lobed. Its bright and showy character places it in the first 
rank in the variegated group, and we believe it will be found 
to be the best of its class; certainly it isa very fine and valuable 
Azalea. 

** Acme, the second variety for which we are indebted to 
Messrs. Veitch & Sons of Chelsea, is a self-coloured Azalea of 
good quality, and is remarkable for the great substance of its 
blossoms, and for its rich deep rosy-crimson colour, a peculiar 
tint which we have not seen in any other variety.”—(Florist 
and Pomologist, 3s., iv., 73.) 


NOTES ON A FEW FINE BEDDING PLANTS. 


Ageratum Imperial Blue.—Lively lavender, with more of a 
dash of blue in it than has the real lavender colour, which 
renders it more lively and effective; 8inches high. Produces 
its immense bunches of flowers in the greatest possible pro- 
fusion—so much go, that it covers a bed with a perfect sheet of 


[ April 18, 1871. 


It is a most valuable plant for masses, 
scroll-work, edgings, and for forming ground-work in panel- 
planting, or for pincushion beds. Since the introduetion of 
Lobelia Erinus speciosa and Gazania splendens into our par- 
terres, we know of no other plant so serviceable as this. It 
deserves more said in its favour than was said of it when 
brought before the public; and the coloured plates we have 
seen of it do not do it justice, and this is not generally applic- 
able to new plants. 

Heliotrope Surprise.—What Imperial Blue is among Ager- 
tums this is among Heliotropes. A lively purplish blue. Grows 
about 9 inches high, and having a first-rate habit. In some 
localities, where for the last few years purple Verbenas have, 
owing to the drought, not been satisfactory, it has been decided 
to substitute this Heliotrope, the effect produced being similar. 
This may apply most to dry soils. 

Tresine Lindenii.—This is a very decided improvement on 
I. Herbstii, being of a brighter colour and much better habit ; 
less lumpy and ungraceful-like, from its being dwarfer, more 
twiggy in growth, and from the more pleasing outline in shape 
of its leaves, which are acuminate or taper-pointed. When sent 
out, we got a character with it of much more hardiness than 
I. Herbstii; we think it slightly more hardy, but not much. 
It has the same liking for moisture and rich soil, is as easily 
propagated, requires intermediate heat to keep it safely over 
the winter, and tobacco-smoke to keep it free from green-fly. 
More than likely it will supersede I. Herbstii. It bears pinch- 
ing well for edging, and for dotting in light groundwork of suck 
as Pyrethrum Golden Feather (a most useful plant, likely in 
great measure to cause a decrease in the number of Cloth-of- 
Gold and Golden Chain Pelargoniums) and Alyssum variega- 
tum, &c. Excellent also for contrasting-lines to yellow Calceo- 
larias, Centaurea ragusina, Cineraria maritima, and C. acanthi- 
folia. 

Cineraria acanthifolia.—The same beautiful silvery white~ 
ness as C. maritima. Fully more compact in growth, the leaves 
being in shape intermediate between C. maritima and Centaurea 
ragusina. Grown with a stem a foot high, this is a very hand- 
some plant, beautiful either for panel-plants or for dotting. Te. 
some extent this should supersede the Centaurea, being much 
more easily wintered, and quite as if not a more handsome 
plant. It is an excellent dinner-table plant. In hardiness it 
is the same as C. maritima, but we have not found it so easily 
propagated. It can be raised easily from seed, but, like its 
companion, we suppose it will scarcely attain its full coat of 
silvyeriness the first year. We have not yet had experience ofit 
from seed. 

Senecio argenteus.—From what we have already seen of this 
plant, we regard it as the finest silvery-foliaged plant for general 
usefulness out-doors that has ever been introduced. When it 
can be said of it that it is a hardy perennial, and a miniature, 
as nearly as possible, of Centaurea ragusina, forming lovely 
compact specimens 6 inches across, with compact stiff leaves ag 
white as those of the Centaurea, and like them in all respects 
except size, little more need be said in its fayour. It was 
brought from the Pyrenees by Messrs. Backhouse, of York, who 
sent a special expedition for it, and who seem to think it does best 
in loamy soil, though it grows wild in a loose shaley soil. It 
multiplies itself by its ‘‘ woody stem branching and rooting as 
it travels on.” At present our stock of it is in pots, and from 
what can be seen of it in that state, and from what we have 
heard of it out-doors much farther north, it cannot fail to bea 
great favourite. 

Pelargonium Vesuvius.—Brilliant scarlet; flowers produced 
in largish trusses in wonderful profusion. Habit compact and 
dwarf; lively green leaves slightly zoned. We regard this, 
from our experience of it in two different soils and localities, 
as, taken as a whole, the most useful Pelargonium that ever 
came under our notice. It has not a fault that can be named. 
It is brilliant, free in growth, and for keeping up a continuous 
profusion of telling blooms we haye seen nothing in the Pelar- 
gonium way to equal it for bedding. It is excellent for pot-cul- 
ture, and in intermediate heat blooms profusely all the dull 
months of winter. At present we have a quantity of it ina 
temperature of 55° to 60°, that were lifted out of the beds in 
October, and since the middle of November they have been 
studded with bold trusses of bloom; and this in the case of 
plants that were late in September denuded of every growth 
that would make a cutting. The more vigorously it grows, the 
more blooms are produced. 

Pelargonium Glorious. — This for beds is second only to 
Vesuvius. It is more of a crimson scarlet, and not so lively 


April 13, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 


273 


a colour for distant effect, but in all other respects it is the | other 130 feet, or thereabouts. This deviation from the con- 


equal of Vesuvius. : 

Pelargonium Grand Duke.—This well deserves its name as a 
pot plant, in which condition only have we yet proved it; but 
we have its character from a reliable friend in the midland 
counties of England as one of the most effective of bedders. It 
belongs to the Nosegay section, and has immense trusses of 
orange-scarlet blooms on very stout footstalks. Habit compact. 

Pelargonium Fire-King.—Bright scarlet. Immense truss ; 
free and fine bedder. 

Pelargonium Lucius.—Very bright rose; very large trusses in 
great profusion. We have not proved this variety on an exten- 
sive scale, but from what we saw of it last season, and heard of 
it at Kew and in the midland counties, it must prove to be the 
finest of all our rose-coloured bedders, and in a potit is splendid. 

Pelargonium Jean Sisley—This is a fine zonal variety, its 
form and substance being much like Lord Derby, with a richer 
colour. Much is expected of this variety. 

Pelargoniums Bayard, William Thomson, Douglas Pearson, 
and Dr. Murat.—Theso are crimson varieties, of which we think 
very highly as bedders, more especially the two first-named, 
which are both excellent in habit, having immense trusses pro- 
duced very abundantly. Bayard’s character is well established, 
and William Thontson, though we had only two plants of it 
planted out this year, we think quite equal to it. 

Pelargonium Blue Bell.—Bluish-lilac ; very pleasing colour ; 
large truss; moderately-profuse bloomer; well worth growing 
in beds on account of its lively colour. Should be plunged in 
6-inch pots, when it flowers more freely. Fine pot variety and 
late winter bloomer. 

Pelargonium Maid of Kent.—We have not proved this variety, 
but from reliable authority learn that it has been superior to 
Christine—to which class it belongs—in England these last dry 
summers. It has not run so much to seed as Christine; but 
for wet seasons and northern districts we suspect Christine is 
not easily conquered. 

From among numerous varieties we have selected several 
other sorts, of which we prefer not to speak confidently at 
present. 

Growers who do not possess Glow and Violet Hill, the former 
a scarlet, the latter a dwarf rose-colour, should add thom to 
their collections. Glow is a very fine bedder, and Violet Hiil 
the best dwarf rose we have ever seen.—D. T.—(The Gardener.) 


A LARGE GRAPE HOUSE. 


Many years ago, when on a visit to Liverpool, f went through 
the far-famed Grape houses of Mr. Meredith, of Garston, and 
I was astonished at the size of two span-roofed vineries each 
144 feet long by 32 wide, but a subsequent visit has revealed 
the fact that even these large houses have been eclipsed by still 
larger ohes erected near them. We now and then hear of 
orchard houses of unusual size being put up, but not many 
days ago I accidentally discovered a glass house intended for a 
vinery of which the dimensions exceeded those of all that I 
had previously seen, although I cannot affirm there may not 
be larger. It is 385 feet long by 16 feet wide, and has recently 
been erected by an enterprising gentleman in the suburbs of 
Maidstone on a piece of ground which apparently had been 
quarried, and was lying waste. This large glass house, for 
until it is planted it cannot properly receive a specific name, 
is a lean-to with a north light, and a low front light also. The 
main rafter of the lean-to is of great length, owing to the steep 
descent of the ground where the house is built; a row of posts 
or pillars inside, at intervals of about 8 feet, support the ridge, 
and the main front roof is fixed. The north lights and front 
upright ones are moveable for ventilation. 

The structure of the house presents nothing peculiar beyond 
the size and the steepness of the ground on which it is built, 
the site shelving rapidly to the south. This circumstance, how- 
ever, tends to increase the size of the house, for the floor, I 
believe, descends about 3 feet, necessarily increasing the length 
of Vine-rafter nearly 5 feet, for the roof was of a steep pitch— 
possibly 50°—giving ample space for the longest stretch of Vine 
rod that could be desired. ‘The back light is about 4 feet, 
the front upright light about 2 feet, and both open to admit 
air. There is nothing peculiar in the glazing; perhaps the 
squares were larger than some would have recommended, but 
this is a mere matter of taste. The only drawback to the house 
presenting a noble appearance was its not being in a straight 
line, a slight angle of 3° or 4° occurring at about one-third of 
its length, one portion appearing to be about 250 feet and the 


tinuous straight line was, I believe, rendered necessary by the 
nature of the ground. Another feature in the house was the 
cheap construction of the back and front walls; the front wall, 
of course, was on arches, but both were of concrete, formed 
of the débris of the quarry on the site of the house, along with 
cement, or rather stone lime. The ground having ail been 
quarried, probably rendered it difficult to make a foundation 
for a brick or stone structure, but it is not unlikely that the 
same cause may be beneficial to the Vines eventually, and if it 
ever should happen that one plant did duty for the whole of this 
house, the advocates of the one-Vine system might have 
something to point to. As it is, the house presents a noble 
example of the enterprise of its builder, a Mr. Goodwin, who, 
I believe, is about building behind it another house of similar 
dimensions, the rising ground allowing of this without any 
danger of the border being in the shade. A crop of Cucumbers 
occupied in the past season the house already built, and I was 
told the number cut was enormous. Some wires stretched 
against the back walls were occupied with Cucumbers, as well 
ag the floor of the house, but Vines were about to be planted, 
and I hope to report favourably on them some day. A vinery 
128 yards long without a division is a sight not met with every 
day.—J. Rosson. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


Dr. Hooxenr has just started on a botanical expedition of 
eight or ten weeks into the interior of Morocco, a hitherto al- 
most untried field. Ho is accompanied by Mr. BR. Ball and 
one of the gardeners from Kew to assist in collecting plants.— 
(Nature.) 


Tue report of the Mancnzster Frexp Narturaxists’ 
Soctrry for 1870 has, according to the secretary, ‘little to say 
except that the year’s proceedings have been marked by smooth- 
ness and success, with no particular incidents to give it distinc- 
tion above preceding years, and certainly without any of an” 
infelicitous kind.” The meetings have been well attended; 
there has been a considerable entry of new members; and 
the treasurer’s report is satisfactory. The report is taken up 
with brief réswmés of the proceedings at each meeting, and a 
summary is given of a useful paper by Mr. R. B. Smart “On 
the Variation of Species” in the vegetable kingdom. Wemuch 
regret that, from asociety numbering its members by hundreds, 
we cannot obtain a proportionate amount of work; indeed many 
of the smaller bodies put the field clubs of our large towns to 
shame in this respect. Mr. Grindon’s ‘ Flora of Manchester” 
is not only out of date, but also out of print; and a complete 
fauna and flora of the district would be both useful to natural- 
ists and creditable to the society. Surely among so many 
members some may be found both able and willing to under- 
take such a work. We observe that the secretary, in the pre- 
sent report, speaks of plants by their English names, some of 
which are of his own invention. As their scientific equivalents 
are omitted we are left in the dark as to some of them; 
“Dimplewort” is, we believe, Cotyledon umbilicus, but ‘* Blush’ 
wort” baffles our ingenuity. The president for 1871 is Mr. 
Thomas Turner, F.L.S., and Mr. Grindon continues to act as 
secretary.—(Nature.) 

— Tuer Trepwortu Consrryatory.—The late Mr. Assheton 
Smith was told by medical authorities that his wife must go to 
Montpellier ; hereplied, ‘‘ No, I will bring Montpellier to her.” 
To enable her to have daily exercise in a genial temperature 
he built the vast conservatory at Tedworth. The cost was very 
large, and it was stocked with trees and plants that were ever 
verdant and refreshing; but the current consequent expense 
was large, so, not being needed by the present possessor, it was 
put up to public competition by Mr. F. Ellen on Wednesday 
last, and purchased by Mr. W. Gue, Mayor of Andover, for the 
sum of 265 guineas. 


—— Tue following are from the American ‘“ Gardener’s 
Monthly :”— 


HorticuLure IN BeRiin.—It is proposed to hold a grand exhibi- 
tion at the end of June, in Berlin, open to all the world, similar to 
those held at Hamburgh and St. Petersburgh a few years ago. 

Horrrcuuture In PorruGAL.—At a meeting held under the auspices 
of the Royal Portuguese Agricultural Society, at Lisbon, last autumn, 
Jose Martino Pereira de Lucena Nortrona a Faro, the leading nursery- 
man of Lisbon, exhibited one hundred and fifty species and varieties of 
Begonia. This beats Philadelphia collections of this interesting plant. 

Harpy Parms.—M. Naudin, at Montpellier, in France, has found 
Pheenix reclinata withstands the severe weather which sometimes 


274 


occurs at that place, making no less than thirty-one species in the open 
air there. 

PHYLLOXERA VASTATRIX, the insect which is so alarming European 
Vine growers, is said to be an introduction from the United States, but 
it appears more is laid to its charge than it deserves. Another, Dac- 
tylopius longispinis of Targioni, M. Planchon says, is the cause of the 
“Black evil” (maladie noire) in the Grape Vine. 

Botany ty Arrica.—They have a thriving Botanic garden at Natal. 
Mr. McKean is the director. They have just started a Society of 
Natural History. Its first publication gives much attention to botany. 
Anew climbing Scrophulariaceous plant, to which order our well-known 
Maurandya Barclayana belongs, is described in it, under the name of 
Buttonia natalensis. 

THE AMERICAN AREA OF GRAPES has been put at 2,000,000 acres, 
of which California claims 200,000, or one-tenth of the whole. 

Stamens AND Pistits oF THE GRAPE VinE.— There are three 
distinct kinds of flowers on the Grape Vine. Some time since, Dr. 
Engelman wrote to us to know if any one had ever seen a purely pistil- 
late Grape. He never had. We now think it does not exist. But 
there are certainly three forms :—First, purely staminate, in which 
there are no trace of the ovarium ; secondly, small ovaries, with defective 
stamens, which never produce seeds, though often swelling enough to 
make small Grapes with no seeds; thirdly, hermaphrodite, which we 
believe alone produces fruit. We suspect all the male flowers throw 
their efforts away. 


CANNELL’S REGISTERED ECONOMISING 
BOILER. 


Tue long sharp weather of last winter, and the immense 
consumption of fuel to keep up the necessary temperature to 
preserve my plants, caused me to ponder much about heating 
our horticultural buildings, and at the same time to see if it 
was not possible to utilise the great amount of heat which has 
been up to the present time allowed to escape by the chimney. 
I determined to put my ideas together, and see if I could not 
combine all the qualities that a boiler should possess, and the 
annexed engravings, and the following particulars will show 
how I have succeeded. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ April 18, 1871. 


by pipes with castings Nos. 2 and 3 respectively, and at the top 
on each side with casting No 11, which will be afterwards de- 
scribed. The front casting, No.5, must be of such a height 
that the top will be level with the top of No. 6, forming the top 
of the furnace. 

The front is built up with brickwork, with three sliding soot 
doors to allow the flues to be properly cleaned out. This front, 
or No. 5 casting, is connected at the bottom by pipes with cast- 
ings Nos. 2 and 3, and at the top on each side with casting 
No. 6. Upon the top of castings Nos. 2 and 3 is placed a sixth 
further and separate hollow fluted casting, forming the top of 
the furnace, haying a space left at the back opening upwards, 
to allow a free passage for the fire to pass out of the furnace 
under a separate and hollow casting (No. 7), which when fixed 
forms two flues communicating, by means of other flues formed 
by similar castings, and terminating in a rectangular opening 
at the top for regulating the draught, and for the passage of 
the smoke into the chimney. 

The circulation of the water from and into every separate 
hollow casting is effected by means of four sets of pipes affixed 
externally to the castings, two sets being placed on each side of 
the apparatus. If desired the crown or top casting with the 
flow-pipe can be placed upon No. 2 or 3 casting, and worked 
without the flues urtil required. The flame or hot air from 
the fire placed on the hollow bars will pass between castings 
Nos. 2 and 3, until it arrives at the opeuing, described to be left 
at the back of casting No. 6, where it will divide, and pass 
upwards towards the front through the two flues formed by 
casting No 7. It will then return towards the back through the 
two flues formed by casting No. 8, again uniting and passing 
upwards into the flues formed by castings Nos. 9 and 10, the 
heat thus continuing to travel through castings Nos. 9, 10, and 
11 in the same way, so that the hot air will pass six times 
through the internal length of the apparatus before escaping 
into the chimney. 

It will therefore be seen that this boiler is so constructed 
that all the caloric which the fuel contains is extracted and 


Fig. 1. 
The boiler (fig. 1) consists of nine or more separate hollow cast- 


ings, placed one upon another. Upon brickwork is placed the 
basement or No. 1 casting, consisting of a hollow rectangular 
frame, into which are fixed eight (more or less, according to the 
size of boiler) circular hollow fire-bars, placed at such a distance 
from one another as to allow sufficient space for the draught. 
At the back or further end of this casting are the return pipes, 
and in the front the discharge pipe for cleansing the interior of 
the boiler at any time. The ashpit is formed by the brickwork 
supporting the first or basement casting, and is enclosed by a 
door hung on a solid cast-iron frame builtinto the brickwork or 
otherwise. The furnace door is to be hung in the same way. 
Upon the first casting are placed four other separate hollow 
castings, of which Nos. 2 and 3, forming the sides of the fur- 
nace, are fluted and placed parallel with the hollow fire-bars, 
and are of such a length that ihe two remaining castings, Nos. 
4 and 5, which form respectively the back and front of the ap- 
paratus, may be flush with the ends of the first castings. The 
back, or No. 4 casting, is large enough to cover the whole or 
part of the end of the apparatus, and is connected at the bottom 


conveyed to the water, only just sufficient to take away the 
smoke being allowed to escape. Any length of fine can be 
added, or the boiler can be worked without any flue at all; and 
as the glass houses or buildings are extended so can heating 
power be added. It requires no brickwork beyond its founda- 
tion to form the ash-pit, and a wall round, as in almost all 
stoke-holes, to form a frontage; the latter can, however, be 
dispensed with. There are no dead-plates, solid bars, or bricks 
in this, as in most other boilers, to burn and crack, thereby 
admitting a quantity of cold air which tends to cool the water 
instead of heating it. 

In order that there may be confidence in a boiler, there mus 
be uniform strength in the castings. It is well known that the 
more complicated the castings the more difficult is it to procure 
an equal thickness, while inequality causes unequal expansion 
and contraction, and occasions fractures and leakages. But in 
my boiler all the parts are in square sections, and easily cast ; 
consequently a regular thickness can be guaranteed, Any of 
the compartments can be renewed or replaced without destroy- 
ing the remaining parts, as the boiler is made in sections, and 


April 13, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


275 


is put together with patent joints. All that is necessary is a 
small spanner, and with this two or three ordinary labourers 
can dismantle and replace it ina few hours. These joints do 
away with all fear of fracture from expansion or contraction. 

Tf the damper is carefully worked, it will keep up an intense 
heat, and the small amount of fuel required will be almost in- 
credible, yet it will be found capable of heating a very large 
quantity of piping in sharp weather with less waste of heat than 
any other boiler. 

Fig. 1 shows that it can easily be removed from place to place, 
or a new section put in, so as to be easily converted to any 
length of pipe. : 

Fig. 2 shows that it can be worked in a similar form to the 
old saddleback boiler, with the advantage of the hollow bars, 
and the return flue above, and the two ends can easily be added 
at any time by simply removing the plugs which connect them 
with the main part of the boiler.—H. Canneuu, F.R.H.S., 
Woolwich. 


APRIL PEARS. 


Isenp for your inspection three or four Pears—viz., 1, OLIVIER 
DE Serres; 2, ForTUNSE DE Printemps; 3, Lovisr BoNNE DE 
Printemes ; 4, Bercamorry (Esperen). 

No. 1 was raised by M. Boisbunel, and fruited here in 1869. 
It is a Pear to be depended upon for March and April, as it is 
a good bearer, is quite Lardy, and ripens well. Its flesh is 
melting, with a fine aroma, and is nearly or quite as good as 
Winter Nelis in December and January. It was raised from 
Fortunée de Printemps, or, as we call it, Fortunée. 

No. 2, from a wall in the garden of my son at Harlow, ripens 
in February, and is of most excellent flavour, with an agreeable 
acidity, very refreshing. The specimen sent is froma pyramid 
here, and not of so high a flavour. 


Prd SS 


Olivier de Serres. 


No. 3 is a sort raised by M. Boisbunel. It is handsome, and 
-much like its namesake, Louise Bonne d’Avranches, or of 
Jersey. This sort keeps well till May. It is simply melting or 
half melting, and sweet without any aroma; it is, however, 
handsome, and worthy a place in a spring dessert. 

No. 4 is a well-known and deservedly-esteemed February 
Pear. In my cool dry cellar it keeps well all through April. 
It is the hardiest and most abundant bearer of all our late 
Fears, and deserves, like No. 1, universal cultivation.—TxHos. 

IVERS. 


[The fruit of Oxtvier DE Serres, referred to by Mr. Rivers, 
is represented in the accompanying figure. Unlike many of 
the Pears which are recommended for their late keeping, it is 
one of unusual excellence, and is really worth growing in every 
collection. Hitherto Beurré de Rance has been the variety on 
which the maintenance of alate supply depended, but its coarse 
and frequently gritty flesh contrasts unfavourably with that of 
Olivier de Serres. 


The fruit of Olivier de Serres is of good size, round, and 
Bergamot-shaped, a little uneven in its outline. Skin entirely 
covered with cinnamon-coloured russet. Hye rather deeply 
sunk, rather large, and half open. Stalk short and stout, in- 
serted in a small cavity. Flesh half buttery, sweet, richly 
flavoured, and with a high perfume of musk or ambergris. 

This is a delicious Pear, and unusually richly flavoured for 
a Pear at this late season. It was raised at Rouen by M. Bois- 
bunel, who has been so successful in adding to the treasures of 
the fruit garden. The seed from which it sprung was taken 
from Fortunée d’Angers. The seedling tree first produced 
fruit in 1861.] 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

As soon as the principal crops are in the ground, and the 
supply of dung for the season has been wheeled to the main 
quarters, proceed to make good any part of the edgings not in 
order, either (supposing they are Box) by taking the whole up 
and replanting, or filling up such blanks as may have occurred 
during the past season. Thrift and similar edgings require 
taking up and replanting every two or three years. Although Box 
edgings look neat, and help to set off a kitchen garden, yet as 
forming a harbour for slugs, &c., and from the annual repair 
which even with the best care Box always requires, I decidedly 
prefer stone or earthenware for bordering, for though more ex- 
pensive in the first place, it will in a few years repay for the ad- 
ditional outlay, besides giving an appearance of stability. After 
the edgings are put in order turn over or regravel the walks, and 
after rain let them be well rolled till they again become firm ; 
the garden will then present throughout the season a clean, 
well-regulated appearance, premising that the quarters as well 
as the minor paths and alleys are kept in an equally neat state 
for which purpose place scrapers at each intersection of the 
paths or walks, or, in fact, wherever they may be necessary. 
As soon as young Asparagus is from 3 to 6 inches high let new 
plantations be made. Let a sowing of all the winter and spring . 
Broccoli be made forthwith. Cape Broccoli and Cauliflowers 
for Michaelmas may, however, be sown a week or two later. 
Sow Silver Beet where it is required. Prick out Celery for 
succession crops, and attend well to the early plants with water, 
and if they are under glass see that sufficient air is given to 
keep them stocky. Celery is best kept in a rapid-growing state ; 
the manure should be fat and rich, and there should be plen- 
tiful applications of liquid manure, with a small portion of salt 
dissolved in it. Keep the surface deeply stirred amongst the 
open rows of Cauliflowers, and look out for slugs; continued 
hoeing and surface-stirring greatly disturb them, and will now 
be continually necessary for all advancing crops. Sow succes- 
sions of Horn Carrots—indeed, sow a bed of them every month: 
from January to September. This is the best way to be in- 
dependent of the grub. The Carrots, Onions, and Parsnips, 
just coming up may have the teeth of an iron rake passed 
among them to lcosen the surface. Ridge Cucumbers should 
now be forwarded. See that Capsicum, Basil, Knotted Marjoram, 
Vegetable Marrows, and Tomatoes, are in a proper state of 
forwardness for planting out when the time arrives. A few 
Kidney Beans may be sown in a box of sandy soil and placed 
in a cold pit or other convenient place for protection, to be 
transplanted after a time. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

The disbudding of Peaches and Apricots should be proceeded 
with ; this should never be the work of a second person, but 
should be put into the hands of one who thoroughly under- 
stands the principle on which he works, for it is a delicate 
operation, and will require all his powers of thought and ob- 
servation to do it well, and must be carried on through several 
weeks, even up the final disbudding and thinning. The most 
expeditious way is to commence from the centre, and take 
every shoot as it comes, not leaving it till all that is required is 
done; at that time a quick practised eye accustomed to the 
work, will see in a moment what to do, so that there need be 
no hesitation. If any of the early Plums are expanding their 
blooms, it would be well if a little protection could be afforded 
them at night for a time. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

The continuance ot cold drying winds, and occasional bright 
sunshine, will have been trying to large-sized evergreens that 
have been recently transplanted, and the attention and ex- 
pense in watering, &c., which they will have required to carry 
them safely through, may probably convince many persons of 


* the impropriety of remoying large plants in winter or spring. 


276 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ April 13, 1871. 


Atall events, those who have an opportunity of judging between 
September and winter or spring-transplanted shrubs and trees, 
will agree with me, that early in autumn is the best time for 
effecting the removal of plants of any size. Nothing but the 
most careful attention will saye those which have been re- 
cently transplanted, and besides keeping the roots regularly 
moist, watering the plants overhead with the garden engine to- 
wards evening will be necessary in the case of suchas may 
appear to be suffering from the drying weather, and every plant 
should be examined daily and carefully, so that nothing may 
be allowed to suffer through neglect. Take advantage of the 
present favourable weather for the destruction of weeds, é&c., to 
get shrubbery and herbaceous borders cleaned; indeed, it will 
be advisable to run the Dutch hoe over them, if merely to 
lighten the surface. Bedding plants must not be rashly ex- 
posed for the present, as the weather we are experiencing 
would soon effectually dry the tissues of plants which have 
been growing in a moist rather warm atmosphere. The season 
is, however, far advanced, and the process of hardening should 
be commenced as soon as the weather will admit, but for the 
present shade slightly during bright sunshine, and expose freely 
to air such plants as are well established, carefully avoiding 
old drying currents. 
GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Any attention which will serve to prolong the beauty of the 
Azaleas and New Holland plants, &e., with which the show 
house should now be gay, will be well bestowed, as when these 
are over it will in most cases be impossible to furnish the 
house with equally handsome specimens, and the samo variety 
of colours which these afford. Use shading without loss 
of time. Also carefully examine the plants on the forenoons 
of bright days, and see that none of them are suffering from 
want of water, for with bright sunshine, accompanied with 
drying winds, it will be no easy matter to properly supply 
plants with water, particularly specimens which may be rather 
potbound. In ventilating endeavour, while parching winds 
prevail, to avoid allowing currents to blow through the house, 
especially near recently-potted specimens, or plants recently 
brought from the stove. Take care of the young leaves of 
Camellias, and apply shading the moment it is perceived to be 
necessary. Continue to repot, and place the plants in a moist 
growing temperature as they have done blooming. Use the 
syringe freely on those in vigorous growth, and assist them 
with plenty of clear weak manure water; and Azaleas, if at all 
potbound, will be benefited by similar attention. Orange trees 
in middling health, which, owing to the neglect they are gene- 
rally treated with is too commonly the case, will require 
attention to prevent the young leaves being eaten up by red 
spider. The readiest and most effectual method of clearing 
them of this pest is to lay the plants on their sides, and well 
wash the under parts of the leaves with the engine; but unless 
the trees are kept in health this will be but a partial cure. 
Afford them plenty of liquid manure and a moist, somewhat 
shady situation, and see that the drainage is perfect; also 
repot when necessary, using a compost of two parts of rather 
strong, rich, mellow, turfy loam, and one part good, strong, 
fibrous peat nicely broken up, and well intermixed with clean’ 
sharp sand and bones broken small; there will then be no 
trouble from red spider. 

STOVE. 

Many of the Orchids being now in active growth will require 
careful shading, to protect the tender foliage from the direct 
rays of the sun, and also to keep down the temperature without 
admitting currents of air, which, during the present state of 
the weather, would render the atmosphere altogether unsuitable 
for them. Keep the atmosphere as moist as possible by fre- 
quently sprinkling every available surface, and shut up early in 
the afternoon after syringing, giving the plants a good steam- 
ing. The specimens should be individually examined, fre- 
quently watering those that require it, and avoiding syringing 
heavily and promiscuously overhead until the young growths 
become somewhat firm. Give every necessary attention to soft- 
wooded plants in free growth, keeping them near the glass and 
regularly stopped, so as to secure close, compact growths. Also 
attend to supplying them with plenty of pot room and manure 
water. Give air freely on every favourable opportunity, but 
guard against drying currents.—W. Krane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


_ On the nights of the 6th and 7th we had severe frost for the 
time of the year, on the former date reaching trom 5° to 8° 


below freezing point, according to the position of the ther- 
mometer, and the following night was a few degrees lower 
in temperature. Fortunately the atmosphere, though clear, 
was dry, and therefore we think but little injury was done to 
anything. Apricots and Peaches out of doors appear to be 
saie, and Peas ard Beans seem untouched. 

KITCHEN GARDEN. 

The figure-4 trap, which we lately described, has caught more 
sparrows than mice. Though neither of them had formed a 
hole, both, as well as wood pigeons, had attacked the tops, and 
of course that, if allowed generally, would affect the early time 
of blooming. The frosts of the late few days will arrest vege- 
tation, aud thus far be useful tolate produce. Most of our fresh- 
planted vegetables, as Cauliflowers and Cabbages, have had a 
few laurel twigs between the rows, so far protecting them from 
winds and frosts. The spring-sown Cabbages, owing to the 
adoption of such means, now look strong and well, and one 
thing is in their favour, there will be no danger of bolting or 
throwing up the flower stem. There will, however, with us be 
no fine cuttings of Cabbages in April and the beginning of 
May, and therefore Scotch Kale, Brussels Sprouts, and even 
Sea-kale must be prolonged as far as possible. 

Sea-kale-—What we had in-doors has been very good, and 
that will shortly be cut to pieces and transplanted. The pieces 
of roots without any crowns proved the best last year, and 
have now massive heads. This plan, as far as we recollect, 
was fully explained last season, and is valuable to those with 
little room, as the roots taken up to force in any dark place with 
a temperature of from 50° to 60° will, when cut into pieces of 
4 inches in length and planted, yield fine plants for forcing in 
the second autumn after planting. On the whole we prefer 
every bit of root, if less than the size of the little finger, to 
the best seedlings, and the trouble is much less. We will have 
alot turned out as soon as we can find time. Meanwhile, let 
us state that the beds out of doors, covered with ashes and a 
little litter over them, have done very well, yielding strong 
heads from 6 to 7 inches long—we never wish them longer—and 
almost as white as driven snow. This plan is an excellent one 
for those who have not, and care not to go to the expense of 
pots or boxes. Of course dry earth would answer as well as 
ashes; but of all earth, peat-moss earth is the best for securing 
sweet white Sea-kale. 

Sea-kale unblanched or partially blanched is very fair, but 
far from equal to white blanched heads, with just a streak of 
purple at the points, and therefore to all beginners let us say, 
that if you resolve to blanch in spring you must cover up as 
soon as the buds begin to show above ground, as, if these grow 
an inch or two and acquire the purple colour, no mode of 
shading afterwards will ever make them white enough to suit 
one of our first-rate cooks. It is rather a singular fact as 
regards Sea-kale, but it is no less true, that you cannot make 
Sea-kale white after it has grown 2 or 3 inches with its natural 
purple colour. When covered over, therefore, in the open 
ground, whether by pot, box, ashes, peat, or earth, the cover- 
ing should be put on early—as soon as the bud shows. An 
amateur wrote to us lately, that, thanks to us, he had beautiful 
white Sea-kale from 12 to14inches in length! To have choice 
Sea-kale, 6 inches should be the medium length. If the base 
should be as thick as your wrist, all the better. Heads half 
that in diameter, however, are not to be despised, and will be 
more easily cooked than larger ones. Such heads, after being 
washed and cooked, should be sent to table as they come 
from the garden. All cutting and trimming spoils them. We 
have seen a fine dish of heads 13 inch in diameter at base and 
6 inches in length reduced to a very small affair by nipping out 
the heart some 23 inches long. In many cases it would require 
a whole kitchen garden to yield a supply at that rate. If acres 
are not to be grown as a supply, let it be clearly understood that 
the whole, short, stubby head, as sent from the garden, is to 
be cooked. Just think of a lady taking home a nice stubby 
dish from Covent Garden, and then haying a few little dots sent 
to her table instead of a dish! 

As was stated in an article on Celery, much disappoint- 
ment is owing to the way in which vegetables are sent to table. 
We know of a case where a gardener was harassed about the 
inferior quality of carly Potatoes. The cook was spoken to and 
said she would not trouble, the scullery girl must attend to 
that. The gardener boiled a dish and showed it, and that 
ended the matter. Such things, however, are very unpleasant ; 
and to their credit be it spoken, most cooks, male and female, 
make the most of what iscommitted to them. Let it be clearly 
understood, however, that the finest produce may be easily 


April 13, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


27% 


spoiled in cooking, or presented in infinitessimal quantity when 
more than enough was sent. 

Sea-kalo and Asparagus are in our opinion the best of spring 
vegetables, but in a small garden considerable room raust be 
allotted to them when the gathering is to be continuous day by 
day. We are no advocates for huge walled-in gardens, but 
there are comparatively few establishments where the ground 
allowed for kitchen cropping is ample enough; and one great 
source of mutual dissatisfaction and discomfort is, that the 
proprietors of a kitchen garden of an acre or two in extent 
expect their table to be nearly as amply supplied as that of 
their neighbour, who gives double or four times the ground for 
the production of vegetables, and working power in proportion. 

We sowed a portion of the Kale, Broccoli, and Savoy seed 
intended to yield a supply for winter and spring use; also Cauli- 
flowers and Cabbages for succession in summer and autumn, as 
well as Beet, Salsafy, and Scorzonera for the main supply, and 
Onions and Carrots to be drawn when young. Tarly-sown 
Onions, Carrots, Lettuces, &c., are growing strongly, and we 
hope we shall have no frost to interfere with them. Tarly 
Potatoes that were peeping through the soil have had a little 
earth thrown over them to keep them from the frost. Potatoes, 
Radishes, and Carrots under protection were watered with water 
a little warmed, and first crops of Kidney Beans and successions 
of Turnips were sown. Of the latter Veitch’s Red Globe is a 
very sweet Turnip, white inside, and stands long before it runs 
to seed. Very early Turnips are much better of a little protec- 
tion from frost, as when the young plants are much frosted the 
check given greatly predisposes them to throw up their seed- 
stalks, and then the tubers are worthless for the table. Itisa 


common remark that such and such a thing is no better than | 


a Turnip, but a sweet juicy young Turnip is not to be sneezed 
at. Where wanted very early Turnips should have the protec- 
tion of glass, and for this purpose the Harly Dutch and Snow- 
ball are rather the best. When sown in rows there may be 
rows between of the White Turnip Radish, as for a time it 
will serve many of the purposes of early small Turnips. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Vineries and Peach houses required a good deal of moisture 
on the floors, shelves, &c., to counteract the dry cold air when 
not actually warmed by tho sun. Air given early at the top of 
the house, reducing fire heat as the sun heat increases, and this 
damping of floors, &c., are better in every way than large 
openings for air in such weather and much fire heat to make 
it suitable. Economy and healthy growth greatly depend on 
the simple circumstance of allowing the heating medium to 
become cool as the sun gains force and brightness. When 
much fire heat is used the best mode for supplying the requi- 
site amount of vapour is by having evaporating pans cast on 
the pipes. In very bright days that would not be so available, 
as the pipes would be comparatively cool, and therefore damp- 
ing floors and stages come in as very desirable and useful. 
There can be no worse plan for giving vapour than sprinkling 
very hot pipes or flues. The danger will bein exact ratio to 
the high temperature of the pipes and fiues, and the nearness 
of the plants to the hot vapour thus thrown off. We haveused 
such means in emergencies, but when freely resorted to there 
is a danger of scorching and scalding, and of weakly instead of 
robust growth. 

The sunny days have been very favourable for giving flavour 
to Strawberries. In previous volumes we have described vari- 
ous modes of standing the pots so as to get rid of saucers, and 
the water standing in them. Where the watering can be well 
attended to we believe there is no plan better than keeping the 
roots entirely inside the pot, and setting the pot on a hard 
substance, as a shelf of deal, slate, &c. The plants thrive well 
and produce good fruit under such treatment, but in bright 
weather they need watering oftener. 

In the orchard houses the shutting-up has kept all safe, 
though the ice was rather thick on the front of the glass. This 
was assisted, too, by the dryness inside, as, after cleaning and 
giving the requisite watering, the surface was covered with 

- fresh dry soil. Peaches, Apricots, &c., set best in a rather dry 
atmosphere. Even here, however, extremes should be avoided, 
as great continued dryness is apt to starve the delicate parts of 
fructification, and therefore, in a continuance of such bright 
Sunny weather, though we would not water the dry soil placed 
on the surface after securing the requisite amount of moisture 
beneath, we would gently sprinkle it with a misty dew from 
the syringe, which would soon rise as fine vapour. In some 
extreme cases we would have no hesitation in gently dewing 


the blooms in bright weather, but that requires a practised 


; hand at the nozzle end of the syringe, the misty dewing being 


a very different affair from a forcible application of the syringe. 
We have known early Peaches much injured from the latter cause 
when the bloom was fully expanded, before setting had taken 
place. A little will give strength to the pollen cases and the 
point of the future young fruit, too much of it and too forcibly 
given will injure both. The fruit is mostly set thickly in cur 
earliest orchard house, and the bloom is fuily developed in the 
second, but without being set. Out of doors Apricots are for 
the most part set thickly, and will be secure, except from frost, 
accompanied by wet, as we have merely protected with laurel 
twigs. Peaches, too, on walls are safe as yet, though not set 
but setting. In borders neither Plums, Pears, nor Apples 
are yet opening, though a very few blooms of Cherries have 
done so. In lower warmer positions the bloom is, no doubt, 
earlier. 

We find in the case of some bush fruit trees the truth of the 
old adage, ‘‘ Heavy crops of fruit one year, followed with wood 
erowth the next year.” On the whole, the trees look well for 
bloom, but some that bore very heavy crops last year, and 
which were not thinned as they ought to have been, are show- 
ing comparatively little blossom this year. Some good Plum 
bushes in pots that bore too heavy crops last season in the 
orchard house, showed so little bloom that we plunged them 
out of doors. We have no doubt they will be well stored with 
fruit buds next year. They will require but little trouble out 
of doors in comparison with what they would do in-doors. We 
have had to take out little in this way hitherto, and we could 
spare them well, as the plants were becoming too crowded ; but- 
we mention the matter more particularly in order to advise 
those who thus like to grow fruit trees in orchard houses to 
have a few more than are actually wanted. For instance, if 
they have room for a dozen, let them have thirteen or fourteen 


| plants, so as to be able to select the best for inside treatment. 


ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

We proceeded with out-door work, and getting empty beds 
turned over in this fine weather. We hope that there will be 
heavy warm April rains, otherwise we shall be in a sad plight 
for water in this district. Means are being taken here to save 
much more of what falls from the heavens. We continued. 
potting, cutting-making, and hardening-off; we likewise planted 
out Calceolarias in temporary beds with a little protection. 
With us most plants which make fibrous roots are never potted ; 
they are struck and stand thickly in wooden boxes, and then 
transferred to these temporary beds, and, when strong plants, 
are taken up with balle. If we can obtain it, we work a little 
rough leaf mould and sandy loam amongst the roots, and these 
cling to the soil at planting time. The Geraniums put singly 
in pieces of turf, as previously detailed, are now making a net- 
work of fine roots outside the turf, and we fear will need 
moving before planting-out time. Camellias done blooming we: 
shall endeavour to place under the shade of Vines for a time, 
to make growth and set their buds, as then they will bloom 
early without any forcing. Azaleas we would treat the same, 
so as to secure early growth and early setting of the buds, as 
then they force early with little trouble. For late blooming 
they do not much require any such treatment, but for early 
blooming this early growth is essential to success. 

These matters are apt to be overlooked by the owners of one 
house, where the plants must be grown as well as bloomed. In 
such a, case all that can be done is to set plants in groups, and 
by regulating moisture and air, make their. treatment some- 
what different. It is very common to hear the complaint made, 
“ My conservatory is about the same size as that of Mr. H., but 
mine is seldom so gay as his.’”” The complainant chooses to 
forget that his conservatory is his only plant house, and a bad 
one too, whilst his friend H. has several little houses, whose 
chief duty it is to provide for the conservatory. To expect 
equal results under such circumstances is quite out of the 
question. A house to be always gay must have supply houses 
and pits for growing, blooming, taking out, and taking back. 
Our gardening writers too much overlook such things, and 
much unpleasantness is the consequence. We once, to our 
mortification, heard a lady upbraid her gardener in a public: 
show-room, and repeatedly inquire why her plants were not of 
so good kinds as those of a neighbour. The gardener, perhaps 
prudently, pocketed the affront, merely stating there was no 
secret as to the reason, and that night gave notice, and soon 
had a place worthy of his talents. He might have told her 
publicly, in reply to her frequent ‘‘ Why is it?” that she would 
do nothing to make the tumble-down houses wind or rainproof ;. 
and whilst. the owner of the superior kinds of plants had 


278 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ April 12, 1871. 


‘ought all the best plants sent out every year, she had never 
spent a single penny except on the mere wages of labour. 
Winter-blooming Heaths pruned pretty freely will be bene- 
fited by being kept in a cold pit rather close and warm until the 
young shoots are progressing freely, when the plants must 
have more air to escape mildew and secure robust growth. 
Epacrises may be treated in the same way, but they will bear 
more heat and rather more shade to induce them to break 


freely. Care should be taken not to prune too far back; only | 


the shoots of last year should be cut back. When once the 
young shoots are made, expose them well to sun and air to 
ripen the wood and set the buds, preventing the pot at the 
same time from being too much heated. We potted Caladiums, 
Gesneras, &c., and set them under the shade of Vines.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED. 


William Paul, Waltham Cross, London, N.—Spring Catalogue, 1871. 
New Roses, Pelargoniums, Camellias, dc. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

*,* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘ Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, dc., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 

We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same 
sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry 
and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them answered 
promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate 
communications. Also neyer to send more than two or 
three questions at once. 

N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. 


Waces InsuFFicient (4 Head Gardener).—If they are not enough to | 


sustain you and your family, then leave. Avoid any proceeding such as 
you intimate. What Chantrey said (and he could remember when he 
mowed an acre a-day to obtain a livelihood), is quite applicable to gar- 
-dening and gardeners—“ A breach of truth or a subterfugeis not to be 
endured amongst men who illustrate the beautiful and the pure.” 


Poor Man’s Prrk (J. B.).—This is the name in Lancashire of the Datura 
Stramonium, or Thorn Apple. The seed is smoked by those who are 
asthmatical or otherwise troubled by breathing with difficulty. It is a 
native plant, and the seed may be sown now. : 


RHODODENDRON SHOW AT THE RoyaL HorTIcULTURAL Socrety’s GAR- 
DENS (J. N.).—It will be held in June, but the date of opening will in a 
great measure depend on the forwardness of the plants for blooming. It 
lasts several days, and will be advertised in due time. 


SrpnEy SEED-SOWER (Inqguirer).—We have used this extensively and 
found it the best sower either in drills or broadcast that we ever em- 
loyed. An alteration in the slide has removed the objection you mention, 
that it would not sow Peas. 


THRIPS ON AZALEAS (A Constant Reader).—You can do little with 
Azaleas as respects thrips whilst they are in flower, except sponging the 
jeaves with weak tobacco or glue water. When out of bloom smoke with 
tobacco, and use clear soot water freely, with a close moist atmosphere. 


Paums (G. W. T.).—There is no such book as you mention. 


Various (F. G.).—Auriculas and almost all kinds of flowers may be dried 
and then gummed in books, but glue is better. 
gathered when thoroughly dry, placed between sheets of blotting paper, 
and eyery day be changed to fresh dry sheets. They will need pressure 
to keep them firm. This should be continued until they are thoroughly 
dried, and they may then be placed in the book or on separate sheets of 
paper. Magnolia grandiflora, 5 feet high in pots, is too small to flower. 
Turn the plants out in a sheltered situation out of doors, and they will 
ower in due time. If your situation is exposed, plant against a wall 
with a south or south-west aspect. The ground should be well drained. 
Poinciana Gilliesii is only hardy in warm situations far south. A wall 
with a south or south-west aspect is required. We do not think Magnolia 
glauca could be grown in large pots so as to flower satisfactorily. 
Plant it out in a situation sheltered from strong winds, and it will thrive. 
We do not perceive the propriety of dwarfing such subjects as these. 
Eurya latifolia variegata, so far as we know, has not flowered in this 
country. It is one ofthe finest nearly hardy evergreen variegated shrubs, 


HYACINTHS IN THE OPEN GROUND (P. R.).—The spikes have no doubt 
been eaten off by the lary of some insect, probably wireworms, which 
are uncommonly active this season. Place a few pieces of Carrots in the 
soil about an inch deep, and examine them daily for a time, and after- 
wards at longer intervals. You may thereby clear away a great many. 
They will be found eating into the baits. 


QUEEN VicToRIA GRAPE (F. Townsend).—The Queen Victoria Grape is 
the same as Victoria Hamburgh, which is a synonyme of Frankenthal. 
The bunches and berries are large and black. 


GRAPE FOR INARCHING ON BARBAROSSA (A. J.).—Barbarossa (Gros 
Guillaume) is a strong grower and makes a good stock for almost all the 
late kinds. It answers well as a stock for Alicante, Lady Downe’s, and 
the Museats. 

AucuBAS ImMPREGNATED—PEACH TREE ATTACKED WITH RED SPIDER 
(W. H. S.).—It is not unusual for them to be naturally impregnated. The 
male plant near the female is sufficient to account for it 


The flowers should be: 


It is now too | 


late to dress the Peach tree liable to be attacked by red spider with any 
composition as a preventive, but we would after May syringe forcibly on 
the evenings of hot days, and give copious supplies of water at the roots in 
dry weather, continuing to do so till the fruit takes its second swelling. 
If red spider attack it, syringe the tree, so as to wet both sides of every 
leaf, with a solution of 2 ozs. of soft soap to the gallon of water. The 
watering and syringing will improve the health of the tree, and improve 
the size and quality of the fruit. 


PLANTS FOR A CONSERVATORY (A. P.).—We presume you wish for plants 
not only for summer, but also autumn, winter, and spring; we shall 
therefore name some of the most desirable plants for a greenhouse or 
conservatory, such as we have in ours found the most free both in growth 
and flowering. Acacia armata, pulchella, oleifolia elegans, Drummondi, 
and longiflora magnifica; Acrophyllum yenosum, Beaufortia splendens, 
Cassia corymbosa, Chorozema cordatum splendens, Citrus japonica, 
Correa Brilliant, Cytisus racemosus, Eutaxia floribunda, Kalosanthes 
coccinea superba, K. miniata grandiflora, Lilium auratum, L.lancifolium, 
Libonia floribunda, Myrtus communis, M. communis angustifolia, Nerium 
rubrum plenum, Polygala Dalmaisiana, Rhododendron jasminiflorum, 
R. Princess Royal, R. Princess Alexandra, and Vallota purpurea. Camel- 
lias Alba plena, Fimbriata, Bonomiana, Bealii (Leeana superba), La Pace, 
Leopold I., Mathotiana, Mrs. Cope, Storyi, Valtevaredo, Wilderi, and 
Rafia. Azalea indica Admiration, Brilliant, Chelsoni, Criterion, Duc de 
Nassau, Etoile de Gand, Fxtranei, Gledstanesi formosa, Kinghorni, Mars, 
President Claeys, Queen Victoria, Stella, and Vesuvius. Epacrises Car- 
ininata, Eclipse, Hyacinthiflora, Miniata splendens, The Bride, and Vis- 
countess Hill. Of plants with variegated or ornamental foliage—Aga- 
panthus umbellatus fol. variegatis, Agave americana aureo-variegata, 
Arundo Donax variegata, Chamerops excelsa, Dracena australis, Hy- 
drangea japonica variegata, Isolepis gracilis, Phormium tenax, Sedum 
carneum variegatum, S. Sieboldi variegatum, Veronica Andersoni yarie- 
gata, Yucca aloifolia variegata, Y. filamentosa variegata. Fuchsias Ava- 
lanche, Beauty of Clapham, Blue Boy, Empress, Enchantress, Heather 
Bell, and Sunshine. Pelargoniums, Show—Archbishop, Charles Turner, 
Congress, Consul Cameron, Emperor, Lady of the Lake, Menilek, Trou- 
badour, Mr. Rassam, Elvira, Envoy, and Lord Napier. Fancy—Belle of 
the Season, Brightness, Fanny Gair, Lord of the Isles, Mrs. Mendel, 
Princess Teck. Spotted (French and English)—Argus, Boileau, Cybele, 
Monsieur Le Play, and Monsieur Prévot. You perhaps have the Gold 
and Bronze-leaved variegated sorts: if not, they are fine for house work— 
Achievement, Edward George Henderson, Excellent, Lucy Grieve, Jetty 
Lacy, Lady Cullum, Mabel Morris. May Queen, Mrs. John Clutton, Sophia 
Dumaresque, Sunray, Italia Unita, and Picturata. Some of the Zonals 
are also fine for their flowers, which you no doubt have, but we never- 
theless name a few—Beauty of Dulwich, Blazer, Crimson Perfection, 
Duchess of Sutherland, Duke of Edinburgh, Fire King. International, 
Lord Derby, Mdile. Nillson, Seraph, Lizzie, and Princess Dagmar. Chry- 
santhemums are indispensable for an autumn display. Large-flowering 
—Jardin des Plantes, Countess of Warwick, Golden Beverley, Hermine, 
Miss Maréchaux, Mrs. Huffington, White Christine, Princess of Teck, Dr. 
Sharpe, Fingal, John Salter, and Purpurea elegans. Pompon—The Little 
Gem, Prince Victor, James Forsyth, Brilliant, Golden Cedo Nulli, and 
White Trevenna. You can raise from seed Cinerarias, Calceolarias, Pri- 
mulas,and Cyclamen persicum. You will find particulars of the treatment 
of conservatory and greenhouse plants in Keane’s ‘‘In-door Gardening.” 
It may be had by post from our office for 1s. 7id. 


LInUM TRIGYNUM CULTURE (W. W.).—‘It requires more warmth and 
moisture than is generally given to it while making its growth, and one 
of the best positions it can have is a light and airy place on a raised stage 
or shelf in a stove, and I think that in general red spider is the result 
of too cold or too dry a treatment. After it has made its growth it is 
better to remove it to a colder house, but still to a house where it is not 
too cold to give it a syringing every day. If I find red spider inclined to 
attack it I add a little soft soap to the water before syringing, and apply 
it to the under sides of the leaves with nearly the whole force of a syringe. 
Your readers will most probably think Iam a great advocate for warmth 
and moisture, and I confess myself guilty to the impeachment, for so 
long as moisture is not stagnant and warmth is not too close I believe 
nearly all plants are benefited by it. In other words, I believe if plants 
are grown in double span-light houses with plenty of ventilation, that 
heat and moisture are necessary adjuncts. Linum trigynum likes plenty 
of pot room and good treatment. A top-dressing or mulching of manure 
such as would be applied to Peach and Nectarine trees in pots seems to 
suit it well, and it ought to be daily syringed till it begins to open its 
flowers. Red spider is its only drawback, but a large plant in a good-sized 
pot is invaluable, as with good treatment it will remain in bloom for six 
months of the dullest season of the year—from October to March.— 
CICS PY 


THRYSACANTHUS RUTILANS CULTURE (G. S.).—Insert the points of the 
shoots now singly in small potsin a compost of two parts sandy loam, one 
part sandy peat, and one part silver sand. Place them in bottom heat, 
and keep them moist and shaded. In the course of two or three weeks 
they will be rooted, and in about six weeks should be shifted into larger 
pots, using the same compost as before; then place them in the stove, 
They require a light airy position and a moist atmosphere. Shift the 
plants into larger pots as required, but not after August. After Septem- 
ber give no more water than enough to keep the foliage fresh. When 
they show for flower, water more copiously. They require a stove at all 
times, but will do in a heated vinery in summer. 


EUCHARIS AMAZONICA TO FLOWER IN W1NTER (Idem).—The plant should 


at once be potted if necessary, and be placed in a bottom heat of 70° to 
75°, continuing it there and watering as required for the next three months. 


At the'end of that time it will have made a good growth, and should be- 


gradually withdrawn from the hotbed and the watering lessened, yet giving 
enough to keep the foliage fresh. It should havea position near the glass, 
combining plenty of light with abundance of air. Keep it here with a 
diminished water supply until six weeks before you desire flowers, and 
it will probably throw up for flowering after it has been that time in the 
hotbed, to which it should be returned. It requires a stove, and a com- 
post of two parts turfy loam. one part fibrous peat, and one part leaf soil, 
with a free admixture of sharp sand. Good drainage is necessary. 


Fowrs’ MANuRE—CucuUMBERS AND MEtons (Amateur).—The dung of 
fowls is beneficial.to all kinds of plants, and may be used like stable or 
farmyard manure, but only one-fourth of the quantity should be given at 
one time. For plants in beds or borders it should be sprinkled on the sur- 


4pril 13, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


279 


face, and pointed in with a fork. If used as a liquid manure, one peck to 
thirty gallons of water is sufficiently strong, but not too strong for Vines, 
Cucumbers, or Melons. In no case let it comein contact with the foliage. 
At the above strength it is suitable for all plants to which liquid manure 
is usually given. For a house, Cox’s Volunteer, Telegraph, and Dale’s 
Conqneror Cucumbers are excellent and large; Masters’s Prolific is 
smaller, but avery free-bearing excellent sort. Of Melons, grow Heckfield 
Hybrid, Meredith’s Hybrid Cashmere, and Dr. Hogg, green-fleshed; and 
Wills’s Oulton Park Hybrid, Mounsden’s Moreton Hall, and Golden Per- 
fection, the former two scarlet, and the latter yellow-fleshed. 


PERENNIAL Asters (B. B.).—Aster Amellus major, A. grandiflorus, A° 
dumosus, A. tanacetifolius, A. Novi-Belgii, A. hyssopifolius, and A. sik- 
kimensis. A. tenuifolius is also good. 


VERBENAS BLIGHTED (R H.).—The newly-struck cutting sent us shows 
the ravages of the thrips, and the black on the leaves is due to the attacks 
of those insects or green aphis. Fill the house with tobacco smoke on a 
calm evening, shutting up closely, and having the atmosphere tolerably 
moist, but the foliage of the plants dry. Repeat the smoking on the next 
night but one. In the course of a few days we would remove the plants 
to a cooler house or frame, and they will succeed much better than in a 
heated structure. (J. F. B.).—We have no doubt yours are affected with 
the disease that has taken such hold on Verbenas this season. We believe 
it arises from propagating them for so many generations from cuttings, 
and we adyise cuttings to be taken from the most healthy plants, and 
from those grown a distance—ie., change the stock. We would also 
direct attention to the desirability of raising from seed, and propagating 
from the kinds so raised. Indeed, some very good sorts can be obtained 
eased, and they do not exhibit any traces of disease for some time. 

PRUNING A NEWLY-PLANTED ORCHARD OF DwaRF AND PyRAMID TREES 
{W. I. T.).—As you justly observe, opinions differ widely as to this, and 
we are not surprised at your being puzzled. Perhaps our advice may 
differ from that of all others, for if we had planted such an orchard during 
the past winter, we should not prune at all till next year, but would take 
care to secure every tree in its place by proper stakes and tying. In 
planting all kinds of deciduous trees and even quickset hedges, we make 
it a point not to head them down till the following season, when they are 
cut in rather severely. This mode of proceeding we think is more especi- 
ally necessary with fruit trees that are worked, as a too-close heading in 
the first year is apt to produce suckers, which are better avoided, The 
mode which you have marked of cutting them in may do very well the 
second year, but we would not cut them in so severely, as bush and 
pyramid trees require the Enife less than standards. Keeping the 
head within bounds, while the stem is enlarging to bear it, renders 
cutting-in the head essential in the case of standards, but the necessity 
for this is not so great where the trees are bushes or pyramids. Some 
judgment, however, is required in cutting the latter, in order to obtain a 
well-formed head; but we have more faith in hot summers restricting 
growth and promoting the formation of fruit-bearing buds, than in any 
skilful manipulation with the knife. Assuming the position you have 
chosen to be asuitable one, itis very likely you will besuccessful. By an 
accident this answer has been delayed a week. 


Evaporatine Liquip Manure (Amateur).—You may use the strong 
liquid manure that flows from your stable for placing in your evaporating 
pans in a Cucumber house, if the liquid has been collected and stored 
ten days to ferment, and then mixed with, say, four times its quantity of 
water. Guano water may be used in the same way at the rate of from 
2 to 3 ozs. of guano.to a gallon of water. If you use either much stronger 
the fumes may be dangerous in a close house at night. 


Cucumber Leaves, &c., ScaLDED (J. A. Jeffrey’—We have not the 
Slightest doubt that the leaves of the Cucumbers and other plants are 
scalded by hot vapour and a deficiency of air, attended with too much heat. 
From 70° to 80° is a good temperature for Cucumbers during the day in 
sunshine, and with a little air on at top; 70° should never be exceeded 
with artificial heat from a flue. Watering the flue every day to produce 
the dense steam is altogether wrong; such hot steam, and then the sun 
beating on the leaves, with deficient ventilation, will quite account for 
the scalded appearance of the foliage. It will be in every way better to 
have evaporating pans on the flue, and to touch it directly with water 
but seldom. Your next remedy is to give air at the top so early as to 
have the foliage dry before a bright sun beats upon it. Less heat, less 
direct steaming, and, if not more air, at least giving it earlier at the top 
of the house, will be your means of getting out of the difficulty. Better 
damp the walls and floor instead of the flue. 


Vine Roots DisEAsED (J. GC. S.).—The roots are infested by the myce- 
lium of some fungus, and that we think must have found its way into the 
border with dead woody matter; probably there was some in the loam 
or in the burot earth that had escaped the action of the fire. A good 
soaking of lime water applied to all the border would no doubt be de- 
structive to the fungus in a certain degree, but we fear it has too deep 
hold of the roots to be so arrested. Lime is, however, a good remedy for 
fungus, and we should give it atrial. Take care to have the lime water 
heated to the temperature of the border. We would also try a solution 
of 2 ozs. of salt to the gallon of water, giving a good dressing, and it is 
likely the fungus will be subdued, and the Vines may form fresh roots 
that may be proof against further attacks. We think the border is very 
rich and the Vines vigorous. The moister the border the less the fungus 
will spread, and it is not unlikely a thorough soaking of water would 
destroy it; and such may also cause its full development. in which case 
the roots of the Vines will speedily die off. In case the Vines do not go 
oa satisfactorily we would lift them and make entirely new borders, cut- 
ting away all the diseased roots, and dusting those left with quicklime. 
If you could shade the house for a few days we would remove the surface 
soil down to the roots, dust them with quicklime, put over them about 
3 inches of soil, and cover the border with hot dung, and this we think 
would effect a cure. If there is any woody matter in the border you have 
no remedy but to remake the border. 


VINE-GRAFTING—PLANTING—DREssING (R.).—There can be no objection | 
to grafting the Vines as you suggest, or inarching in summer instead of 
grafting. The planting the Vines under an arch is purely a matter of 
taste. Unless for grafting and inarching purposes we would prefer one. 
We cannot say that by selecting the best and cutting out the inferior one 
the roots of the latter would produce mildew, &c., if the plant were cut so 


far back that the stem would send outno shoots. We have, however, met 
with some cases where not only decaying roots but decaying organised | 


matter produced a dangerous mildew or fungus in the soil. It is of little 
importance when you plant Vines inside of a house. If when at rest in 
the autumn, you may lay out the roots. If the Vines are growing, and 
planted in April, May, or onwards, the mode lately adverted to by Mr. 
Thomson is the best. Ifa growing Vine were in a pot we would merely 
extricate the roots at the surface of the ball, and not greatly disentangle 
the roots. Houses should be painted inside when Vines, &c., are in a 
state of rest. Ee y growing plant will feel the effects of the paint until 
the smell of lead and oilhas gone. If not quite gone you must give more 
heat and afford a circulation of air both by day and night; little woula 
do at night. Your wall we consider to be of a very good height for trees 
to be easily managed. To fill it quickly and yet give the trees somewhat 
free scope, we would plant them at from 12 to 14 feet apart. You might 
have the permanent plants double that width apart, but were we planting 
to-morrow we would give them lessroom. We could limit extra growth 
by root-pruning, and if anything happened to a tree there would not be 
such a gap on the wall. On the whole, we should be inclined to restrict 
room instead of dwelling on the many square feet or yards a tree occu- 
pied ; we should thus have more variety. 11} feet will be ample for a 
border for such trees. 


Ivy aGatnst WIRE NErtinG (Old Reader)—We have never tried Ivy 
against wire netting, but we have a very good screen of that plant sup- 
ported by sturdy posts 6 feet apart, with a rather thick rail at the top, the 
Spaces being filled in with slender poles put in diagonally, so as to divide 
the whole into diamond-shaped openings of about a foot or so wide. By 
tying the Ivy to this framework for a year or two it soon reached the top, 
and hangs over, covering the sides effectually. The siteis far from good, 
and at one place, where some buildings created a violent current from 
the coldest quarter, the Ivy was longer in getting up, and even now suffers 
at times, losing some of its foliage in severe winters. Assuming yours 
to be a case like this, could you not manage to put up some shelter asa 
backing on the windy side for a few weeks in winter until your plants 
were established? Perhaps fixing up some Russian matting would serve 
the purpose for a time, taking care not to let it flap backwards and for- 
wards, and so injure the Ivy. When the latter becomes older it will with- 
stand the cold better, for we think it is the unripened state of the plant 
in autumn that renders it unable to bear the rigour of winter, but when 
once established it will be safe. Most of the varieties are hardy enough, 
but the very hardiest is the common wild one, which is also about the 
best climber; but its appearance is not so good as that of some of the 
others, nor does it grow go fast. 


Guass (IM. C. Z ).—We should not hesitate about glazing a vinery with 
the glass you enclosed. It is very stout, translucent, and the ribbing has 
atendency to prevent scorching. 


APPLEBY’s REGISTERED FUMIGATOR (Sussexensis).—We believe it to be 
efficient and self-acting. “D., Deal,” reports of it very favourably. 


Liquip Manure For Roses (F. H. G.).—There are so many ways of 
applying liquid manure to Roses, that it is difficult to say which is the 
best. Asa general rule the greater varieties there are of chemical ingre- 
dients in the liquid manures the better, provided they are not applied too 
strong. One very good plan is to have a large barrel sunk in a corner of 
the kitchen garden, or where there is a range of houses at the back of 
the sheds, and to keep it constantly filled with a strong liquid manure 
made of sheep or deer droppings, soot, and superphosphate ; the whole to 
ba stirred up occasionally, but allowed to settle previous to use. Add one 
can of the strong solution to three of pure water, and put some fresh 
guano into the liquid manure—about a handful to five gallons—at the 
time of usingit. It is a good way to mix the guano ina separate water 
can, and then ada fromit to each can as it is applied to the trees. Wherever 
there is a cow house or a fold yard to fly to, there a liquid-manure tank 
ought to be made to take the drainage from the cow house and middens, 
and this liquid manure, previous to use, would require little more than 
to be diluted according to the strength, which, of course, will be much 
affected by the time of year or quantity of rain that falls. Asa rule it is 
better to apply often and weak than to risk the use of liquid manure in too 
strong a state, as such is apt, especially if the soil is at all heavy, to make 
it soapy, and to stop up the particles of the soil, rendering it impervious 
to air. We cannot too strongly impress upon all persons the advantage, 
we might almost say the necessity, of storing up all the liquid waste from 
the house, as soapy water, the drainings from the scullery, &c. There 
is as much good liquid manure wasted by not taking the precaution be- 
forehand of securing these drainings from houses as would secure good 
kitchen garden crops against drought, even in the most unfayourable sea- 
sons, and would be of the greatest value to the gardener, both in the floral 
and vegetable department. We can fully endorse the warning lately 
given in the Times, by Mr. Bailey Denton, about the probable scarcity of 
water this season. The rains at the end of last year did not bring the 
rainfall up to the avera ge, and every month of the present year has been 
much under the average, only 1.09 inches of rain having fallen in March, 
and up to the 10th no rain in April. The springs are nearly as low now 
as they were last summer, and after this month is over scarcely any rain 
finds its way into the springs, on account of surface evaporation and the 
moisture taken up by growing plants. Itis scarcely necessary, for in- 
stance, to point out the difference between an inch of rain falling on a 
fallow field in winter, or the same field in May or June when covered with 
a growing crop of corn ready to take advantage of every drop of moisture. 
We are induced to make these remarks as we find, not only that the 
springs are weak for this time of year, but also that the rain-water 
supply is short; for where the soft-water supply is dependant (as it 
generally is), upon what falls on the roofs of houses and outbuildings, it 
does not get material benefit from snow, which generally when it begins 
to thaw slips off in great masses from the roofs (often to the detriment of 
the heads of passers-by), and seldom finds its way into the soft-water 
tanks. What makes us refer to this is, that by far the greatest amount 
of rainfall this winter has been in the shape of snow, which, for the most 
part, has been accompanied with a good deal of wind, so that very little, 
if any, has found its way to the soft-water supplies. We feei sure that 
one of the important problems of the present day will be how to supply 
the country as well as towns with water, not only for sanitary purposes, 
but for the growth of vegetables and agricultural produce. Land is being 
drained, trees cut down, hedgerows grubbed-up, and everything is being 
done to increase the power of evaporation, but little or nothing to store- 
up against a time of drought what is taken off the land during the winter 
months. 


InsEct oN PEACH TREES (E. W. R.).—The leaves of the trees in your 


280 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 18, 1871. 


orchard house are eaten by a weevil, Otiorhynchus tenebricosus. They 
feed at night ; then go with a light, place a white cloth beneath a tree, 
shake it, and dispose of the marauders which fall upon the cloth. 


Insects (C. C. E.).—Your “ gentleman” is the larva of one of the 
ground beetles (Harpalide), and his “occupation” is that of eating small 
worms and other soft-bodied underground creatures. Some of his 
brethren occasionally indulge in the tender shoots of cereals.—I. 0. W. 

NaME OF FLOWER (H. MW. I.).—The correct name is Chinese Primrose, 
Primula sinensis. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


INFLUENCE OF THE MALE BIRD. 


Tam reminded by our ‘‘Chaplain’s” letter, in last week’s 
Journal, of the almost utter want of positive knowledge amongst 
poultry fanciers as to the real time during which the definite 
influence of any given male bird extends after separation or 
change. No question is of greater importance to all breeders, 
and yet, strange to say, it cannot be said to have been as yet 
satisfactorily decided. 

About a year ago I mentioned that several American breeders 
were about to make special experiments to determine the matter, 
and I had hoped ere this to have been able to state something 
conclusive ; but the most crucial of the tests proposed were 
eitber vot carried out, or have not yet been reported. The 
subject has, however, aroused a great amount of attention in 
the United States, and several useful communications have 
come to hand, and been published in the Poultry Bulletin and 
Thave, therefore, thought it might be well at the present season 
to collect from that useful journal the principal evidence yet 
brought forward, in the hope that some of our own breeders 
may ke able to throw further light on the matter. 

A contemporary first quotes two statements of fact from the 
Massachusetts Ploughman. Fact number one concerns two 
Bolton-Grey hens, which came from a yard where only the 
pure breed was kept, but on their way were cooped one night 
only with a Dorking cock. They each laid an egg before start- 
ing next morning, and a neighbour wishing some Bolton-Grey 
eggs, these were given in full confidence that they would pro- 
duce pure Bolton-Greys. Not so: the chicks when hatched 
had all the colour of Boltons, but five toes and other marks of 
the Dorking. Fact number two concerns a hen which escaped 
alone to the woods, where she laid a clutch of eggs, and brought 
out twelve chicks, no other fowls being near: hence nearly if 
not all the clutch must have been fertilised before the escape. 
The two facts appear at first sight inconsistent, and the Hditor 
of the Bulletin thinks the first incredible. I do not, haying 
known similar cases; but let us go on. 

The writer of the article himself one day only accidentally 
allowed a Light Brahma cock to get along with some Danvers 
White hens, the latter beinga breed formed between Buff Coching 
and White Dorkings, having White Dorking bodies with bare 
yellow legs. The chicks came, some with the cross most dis- 
tinctly marked, some with very little of it, and some none at 
all, except a tendency to feathered legs. This case, like the one 
from the Ploughman, opens up several questions, which the 
writer himself states as follows :—1, Was the Brahma father 
to all the chicks showing points? 2, Was he father to any? 
3, Can a chick have two fathers? and 4, Did the unfortunate 
connection re-awaken the tendency to feather derived from the 
Cochin ancestry ? 

The next two cases recorded seem to extend the time. In 
one, 2 gentleman breeding Game, finding a neizhbour’s feather- 
legged Bantam cock come over occasionally, penned his hens 
up securely, and saved no eggs fora month after. He then 
thought them safe, but several of the chickens had feathered 
legs, though with no other sign of the cross. Again, Mr. E. 
Howlett writes that he separated a fine Buff hen, which, after 
being placed entirely alone, laid sixteen eggs, from which she 
hatched fourteen chickens. 

In the next number of the Bulletin we have an interesting 
letter from Mr. I. K. Felch, one of the largest and most careful 
American breeders, which deserves special attention. Refer- 
ring to the known fact that one visit to a Turkey cock fertilises 
the whole batch of eggs, he notes the corresponding fact, which 
I never remember to have seen before noticed in connection, 
that even in a state of nature, after the hen has begun to lay, 
she totally avoids the male bird. With the common hen this 
is not the cage, and the reflection is at once suggested, Whether 
the economy of Nature be not altogether different in the two 
kinds of fowl? He then goes on to state, that after all his great 


experience, he has arrived at and always acted upon the con- 
viction, that if the first three eggs laid after removal from a male 
companion occur within four days, they will be bis progeny, and 
that the fourth will belong to the new one. And the evidence 
he gives is very emphatic, as he allows all his young stoek for 
sale to run together indiscriminately before shipment, trusting 
to the few days on rail or steamer to counteract the evil, and 
he gives the names of many purchasers to prove that this is 
invariably done, and that the birds when arrived breed pure. 
Referring then to Mr. Howlett’s no less conclusive experiment 
with the Buff hen, he confesses himself puzzled, and suggests 
whether if may not be true, even supposing a separated hen 
may hatch for a fortnight after separation, that in case of 2 
second mate being introduced, the influence of the first is 
made void. 

In the next number Mr. Huntington, one of the best Ameri- 
can Game-breeders, corroborates Mr. Felch, from an experience 
of twenty years, that the influence of the cock ceases after the 
fourth egg. And in the next, again, Mr. Felch reports a special 
experiment. He separated two Brahma hens, but they only 
laid one egg, the change stopping them till the fifth day. Set- 
ting the eggs, one only of the third eggs, laid on the sixth day, 
showed signs of hatching, the remainder keeping clear. He 
also quotes another gentleman who had a lot of mixed Bantame 
together, and saving the eggs one week after the kinds had 
been properly separated, found the breeds pure. 

The next letter on the subject is from a Mr. Woodward, and 
goes the other way. In March he koaght some Spanish 
pullets which had run in the winter with ‘“ Bucks County’ 
cocks. No eggs were set till May, two months after purchase 
and four months after separation, yet the chicks even then 
showed ‘‘ Bucks County” points in a degree. The contradic- 
tion is, however, in this case more apparent than real, it being 
a well-known fact that the first union will often affect the 
whole future progeny, in which no actual direct parentage can 
be possible. He also states, as a proof of the influence of 
colour on the imagination of the hens, that during a period he 
had some Light Brahma hens running with his Spanish ;. the 
Spanish chicks came with white feathers mingled with the black, 
which ceased as soon as the white fowls were removed. Next 
month another correspondent gives a similar case. He puta 
single-combed Brahma hen into a fine pen of Créve-Ceurs. 
The next clutch of chicks varied in colour, most were worthless, 
and three had single combs. The Brahma was removed, and 
the chicks came all right. In these cases no alien parentage 
had anything to do with it; it was simply the influence on the 
hens of sight and imagination. 

Another correspondent separated both Dorking and Cochin 
hens, and set the eggs laid for six days; they all proved fertile. 
The last letter on the subject relates that a Light Brahma cock 
becoming ill (and finally dying), the eggs of a favourite pullet 
were set till the tenth day after he became prostrate, when she 
stopped for two or three days only. The tenth egg was fertile, 
but when she commenced again, though the cessation had been 
very brief, they were worthless. 

I have now reviewed the whole of the evidence in the Ameri- 
can periodicals. I believe the whole to be trustworthy, and it 
seems at first sight as if nothing definite could be gained from 
it. This, however, I think would be an incorrect conclusion; 
and while I am conscious that considerable uncertainty yet 
remains over much of the question, and trust some of our 
breeders may be able to throw light upon it to a much further 
extent, I venture to suggest the following conclusions as some- 
what probable. To dogmatise would be folly in a matter of 
which the very premises are as yet of such a merely tentative 
character. 

1. It seems at least in the highest degree probable, that the 
influence of a given male lasts longer if no successor be intro- 
duced, or that, in fact, it may either remain for a certain time 
if undisturbed, or if disturbed be ina less time (but how much 
less is hardly certain) neutralised or rather overpowered by the 
second. 

2. It seems nearly certain that whatever the precise time be, 
the influence of a given male in ordinary cases lasts for a con- 
siderably less time than has been generally supposed. 

3. It seems established that there is such a thing as an extra- 
ordinary influence. That the first union offen has a lasting 
effect is well known. Hens first crossed with a Polish cock have 
been known to show a tendency to breed crested chicks all their 
lives; and cases in my own knowledge have led me to think it 
extremely probable that, say a Brahma hen first crossed with a 
Dorking might throw occasionally five-toed chicks afterwards. 


April 18, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


281 


For in all these cases it is to be observed that the plumage is 
generally unaffected, and that the old taint is far more likely to 
show in some peculiar point, such as a top-knot, a pea-comb, 
or a fifth toe, which has become as it were a very component of 
the breed. 

4. But it also seems at least possible that an occasional or 
single mésalliance with such a strongly-marked variety, as say 
a Brahma, a Poland, or a Dorking, may not be sufficient to 
disturb the actual parentage or the general plumage, and yet 
enough influence may be given to impress on a portion of the 
chicks the one peculiar point. Several cases of this nature have 
come within my notice, and they may serve to account for many 
occurrences which have been attributed to impurity of blood in 
the actual parent. It appears, in short, as if in a certain sense 
a chick may ‘have two fathers.” Further light on this inter- 
esting part of the subject is much to be desired. 

Tam at all events inclined to the opinion that in ordinary 
eases, when a male bird is changed for another of the same 
breed, about a week may be relied upon to determine the 
paternity. In case of an alien or markedly inferior bird, I 
should, however, certainly allow longer ; and Iam also inclined 
to think that if there have been very few hens ithe influence 
might probably last longer than if they were numerous. I shall 
hope to hear further from some of your correspondents on this 
important question, which is, perhaps, of all others most inter- 
esting to fanciers generally.—L. WricuT. 


OVER-FATTENING FOWLS FOR EXHIBITION. 


Ar the Edinburgh Christmas Show I purchased at a long 
price a handsome Buff Cochin pullet weighing 9 lbs. She ap- 
peared in splendid feather and condition, and to avoid risk I 
fed her for two or three days on soft food. At the end of that 
time offering her grain she refused it, and this continuing day 
after day, coupled with never laying an egg, aroused my sus- 
picions of inflammation of the proventriculus, for which I 
treated her with smali doses of Plummer’s pill at intervals. 
The remedies proved unavailing ; she steadily refused any buta 
soft diet, was harassed by incessant thirst, and lost rapidly in 
weight and condition till she became mere skin and bone. At 
length I had her killed, and the post-mortem examination 
revealed that the liver was enormously enlarged, weighing fully 
52028. It was friable and pale, with yellow spots on the sur- 
face here and there; these spots were caused by lumps of hard 
fatty matter, some of them as large as a small nut. These 
lumps were of a bright yellow externally, very hard to cut, and 
internally had a dark nucleus; they were very numerous all 
through the liver. 

As a warm lover of the poultry fancy, should the publication 
of these details do something towards checking the ever-to-be- 
condemned system of over-fattening prize poultry to their ulti- 
mate ruin, I shall be more than repaid for the loss I have sus- 
tained.—F.. §. F. 


NESTS FOR EGG-HATCHING. 


WHERE a choice can be had, a nest on the floor should be 
preferred. I would not put much straw in the nest, because, 
where this is done, the eggs are very apt to become chilled, 
especially early in spring. 

A very successful and simple method is this :—Cut a tough 
grassy turf about 15 inches square and 3 or 4 inches thick. 
Hollow out the form of a nest on the lower side, then place 
it where the hen is to sit with the grassy side uppermost, and 
press it firmly on the bottom or floor. There will then be 
the form of a nest in the grassy side on account of its being 
hollowed on the other. On this place the eggs and hen. Two 
hens set in this manner have hatched all their eggs except 
one, which contains a dead chicken. Taking into account the 
severe weather we haye had for the last ten days, this must be 
considered good so far north at the present season.—J. M. C., 
Aberdeenshire. ; 


Stroup Povnrry Suow.—Exhibitors will be glad to learn 
that the committee of this Show have sanctioned the use of 
padlocks for securing exhibition hampers. A label having the 
name and address of the sender, with the number of the “class 
and pen,” must be attached to the key of each padlock, which 
must be sent by post to the Secretary, a duplicate key being 
retained by the exhibitor. There will be two self-supporting 
classes for Malays—yviz., one for cocks and the other for single 


hens, and it is to be hoped that the fanciers of this breed will 
send as many entries as they possibly can; for should there be 
a good muster of entries at this Show, no doubt there will be a 
class for Malays next year upon the same footing as the other 
breeds.—R. J.—[The Judges engaged are the Rev. G. F. Hoc- 
son, and Mr. R. Teebay, for Poultry ; Mr. W.B. Tegetmeier for 
Pigeons; Mr. C. Rayson for Rabbits; and Mr. W. A. Blakston 
for Canaries and other Cage Birds.—Eps. ] 


PIGEON-CARRYING CASE. 


Mr. GRawam requests a reply through your columns; the following 
is in explanation :—Our offices at Exeter Hall were temporarily occu- 
pied during the Show, and the business being completed at the end of 
January the offices were given up. Upon an after-inquiry we found 
two letters from Mr. Graham, the first dated February 11th, asking 
the time his birds arrived, the second requesting an immediate answer. 
We much regret we did not receive Mr. Graham’s letters earlier, as we 
think we could have given some substantial evidence upon the subject. 
My. Ford, a member of our Committee, remembers the arrival of Mr. 
Graham’s birds at 4 p.m. on the day of judging ; and further, a receipt 
was given to. the railway company for every pen of birds received, 
which, if produced, would show the day, if not the hour, of arrival. 
The result we very much regret, as we think the immense charges 
made by the railway companies for the carriage of birds should at 
least secure prompt delivery. A similar case occurred on the same 
occasion. Of anumber of pens, dispatched together and from the same 
exhibitor, a portion were delivered on the day appointed for the recep- 
tion of birds, the others arriving the following day, and ‘‘ too late for 
competition.”” We are not favoured with the merits of the case before 
us, but it appears by Mr. Graham's letter that the action was com= 
menced against the railway company without the most important in- 
formation, and that failing, Mr. Graham jumps equally as quickly at 
a conclusion—namely, that we were in fault. 

We shall be glad if Mr. Graham will favour us with some further 
information upon the subject, as we should have, though the railway 
company could have been made to produce their waybills, which would 
have shown the date and time of the transfor at the railway junction. 
Mr. Graham, finding no reply to his first letter, with a little trouble 
could have referred to the catalogue and found our addresses, together 
with those of many members of the Committee, to whom he is per- 
sonally known, all of whom would have been glad to have assisted 
him in the matter.—C. Howarp & W. J. Nicuous, Hon. Secs. 


[We forwarded Mr. Ford’s letter to Mr. Graham, and we hear from 
Mr. Jones that he has written to him.—Ebs. ] 


CANARY-JUDGING AT WOODBRIDGE. 


Mr. Asuron, in his remarks on Canary-judging at Woodbridge, 
asks ‘‘ How is it that the Judge of Canaries at the recent Woodbridge 
Show has rendered himself conspicuous by reversing the decisions of 
many of the tried and acknowledged judges in Canary matters ?” and 
I beg to reply that this did not occur, the prize being awarded to 371, 
the “crack Lizard,” but by some mistake the card was placed on 372, 
the ‘‘four-shilling wretch,’ which I left unnoticed. I found out the 
error on my return to the Show, but too late for correction, as the prize 
lists were printed ; but seeing the birds both belonged to one exhibitor 
I took no further trouble than putting the card on the proper cage. 
My book of awards is open for inspection at my residence. ; 

This explanation would haye been given in reply to one signing him- 
self ‘A CoRRESPONDENT”’ in your issue of the 23rd of March had 
the name of the writer been given, but I have a decided objection to 
reply to an anonymous communication. 

With respect to the other parts of Mr. Ashton’s letter, I have only 
to say, in defence of the Secretary, that every care was bestowed upon 
the birds at the Show. This I saw, as I did not leave till within an 
hour of its close, and at that time not a single bird of Mr. Ashton’s 
was in any way ailing.—H. Hurron, Pudsey. 


VENTILATION OF HIVES DURING WINTER. 


In continuation of this subject I will give a description of 
a hive which I had made twenty-five years ago, and of the 
manner in which I ventilated it, as well as other hives. The 
hive referred to was made to meet the requirements of those 
who could not be induced to use \:ooden hives, and although 
there are many who still believe that nothing but straw will 
answer for bees, I consider that straw hives ought to be things 
of the past. This hive was made according to my directions, 
with a hole 2 inches in diameter in the centre for feeding, with 
slits at the side similar to the ‘‘ Heonomie hive” recently 
described in “our Journal,” the whole being covered with an 
adapting board, with holes corresponding to those in the hive. 
Over the side slits slides were inserted, in imitation of the 
Stewarton hive; there were also holes in the front and back, 
near the top of the hive, 3 to 4 inches long by 2 wide, inside 


282 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 13, 1671. 


the frame, which was fitted into a hole in the hive made large 
enough to receive it. A piece of wire gauze was nailed to the 
frame, and over this was a door, so that by opening or shutting 
it the hive was ventilated accordingly. If this was not enough 
I opened the orifices in the crown, and with the doorway quite 
closed I always found this answer the purpose. 

The straw covers of these hives were made in the same way 
as the straw which we see ostlers place behind their horses in 
the stable. They were of the exact width of the hive, and tied 
with the string they were made with at the back, so that they 
could be taken off or lowered to admit the working of the ven- 
tilator at back or front without spoiling them, or causing loose 
straws to be lying about. As these covers, it will be observed, 
did not reach farther than the top edge of the hive, they were 
surmounted by either an octagonal wooden cover or a round 
terra-cotta one, or quite as often by a piece of tarpaulin. There 
was no difficulty in raising these to allow of free ventilation or 
to feed, and they were at the same time a sufficient protection 
against rain. 

I hope these instructions will be of use to your numerous 
readers, and [ shall be glad to give further details if required.— 
A LANARKSHIRE BEE-KEEPER. 


AN EXTENSIVE APIARY. 


Tuer Baron von Rothschiitz, at Poésendorff, near Laybach, in 
Carniola, cultivates bees on an extensive scale. His apiary 
numbers more than five hundred colonies, under the superinten- 
dence of a manager, who attends to them exclusively from spring 
till fall, from dawn to dusk, supplying on an average fifteen fer- 
tilised queens daily during the season. He has 6500 frames for 
his hives, of which 3000 contain comb and honey. The apiary 
is divided into seven departments—first the honey department, 
with 100 moveable comb double hives, to accommodate 200 colo- 
nies ; second, a stand with 202 colonies which supply 606 small 
or nucleus stocks, furnishing bees to accompany queens sold; 
third, 250 colonies devoted to queen raising; fourth, 250 nucleus 
hives to receive and hatch queen cells; fifth, a swarming stand 
with ninety moveable-frame hives; sixth, a stand of thirty-six 
moveable-frame model or pattern hives, to sapply the demand of 
customers promptly; and seventh, a stand of 120 provincial 
hives containing Carniolian bees, to supply those who desire to 
obtain full stocks of that race or variety of the honey bee in the 
peculiar hive used Ly the peasantry of the country.—(American 
Bee Journal.) 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


CHALLENGE.— Mr. H. Lacy, Lacy House, Hebden Bridge, has tele- 
graphed that he accepts Mr. Watts’s challenge to exhibit Buff Cochins 


ang. Dark Brahmas. They had better communicate with each other by 
etter. 


Two CHICKENS HaTcHED FROM ONE EGG (J. W. F.).—It is perfectly 
possible, and has occurred, but always from a huge double-yolked egg. 
Had you thought of it at the time, you had the proof in your own hands 
by counting the chickens and shells. We believe it to be quite impossible 
that an ordinary egg should produce two chickens. 


Goose Eces nor HarcHine (One Disheartencd) —We are very sorry 
for you, but the fault is your own. You should have inquired the nature 
of the birds you had, and you would have found that the Toulouse Geese 
do not sit. Your answer to that will probably be, ‘‘But they did sit.” 
True, bat to no purpose. They sit for three Lours, and leave for three 
hours, and so keep on The eggs become alive only to be killed; the 
four you speak of that were so weakly they could not break through a 
wetted shell, survived only to prove that under ordinary circumstances 
they would have been strong goslings. The eggs rot because life has 
been developed in them and then suffered to perish: hence decay. Had 
they been clear eggs they wou d have remained 50, though the Goose had 
sat for a twelvemonth. 


CrossING BRAHMAS AND Dorxrincs (B. B.).—The eross between a 
Dorking cock and a Brahma hen is the strongest. That between a 
Brahma cock and a Dorking hen is the best fowl. Turkeys, as a rule, 
should lay at ten months old. 


Dorxines Dyine (R. C.).—Dorkings are more tender than other fowls 
if they are kept in confinement. Children often over-feed their fowls. We 
cannot help thinking your children do. If they are Dorkings, and at 
liberty, they want purging, and you must diminish their food one-half. If 
they are Dorkings, and kept in confinement, you must change your breed. 
Cochins, Brahmas, Spanish, or Game will suit you. 


MALay CocKEREL PLUCKED BY THE HEN—HEN Nor LAyING (R. J.).— 
If the colours of feathers change to white, it is from weakness, and that 
is only the result of frequent picking. It is always advisable to separate 
a cock from the hens if they pick him bare, Did the hen in question lay 
last year? If so, she was then a pullet, and laid in due course. Asa 
hen she will lay later, but she should have laid by this time. We should 
imagine she is fat, and we advise you, if you want eggs and chickens, to 
purge her with castor oil, giving a tablespoonful every day for three days; 
if she is not cured by this, continue the treatment, but if mending 
diminish the dose one-half until laying gives proof your treatment is 
judicious. 

Great Harwoop SHow.—Mr. J. Ashworth writes to us that Mr. Yard- 


ley’s Pigeons were placed in their proper pens and before judging, that 
Blue Dragoons were second, and that his Pigeons were properly fed and 
returned in good condition. 

Waite Fanram (J. R, Y.).—If you send 3id. in postage stamps with 
your address, and order No. 512 of this Journal to be sent, you will find 
in it a drawing and all the points of Fantail Pigeons. 

ARTIFICIAL Swarm (R. 4. Jenner).—Do not attempt artificial swarming 


until next month, and then only during fine weather when honey-gather- 
ing is in full swing. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN Square, Lonpon. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Dare. | 9 AM. In THE Day. 

Qe wit \shade Tem.| Radiation a 
1871. Eas pserome: Direc-| Temp.| perature. Tempera 2 

|O eq y tion! of| of )Soil| ee ee aes 
April. |3 223 In , On 

Aso | Dry. ; Wet sun. | grass 

Inches.| deg. | deg. a g. deg. | deg. | In. 
We. 5 | 30.087 | 46.3 | 44.2 fi if 0 79.8 | 33.2 | — 
Th. 6 | 3).083 | 41.8 9. b 5. 51.2 i 901 | 39.8 | = 
Fri. 7 | 30.215 | 43.2 | 37.8 S.E. 44.8 51.8 | 28.3 | 97.8 | 249°) — 
Sat. 8 | 30.095 | 47.0 | 406 S.E. 44.2 56.2 | 36.2 |102.1 | 26.2 ae 
Sun. 9 | 29.989 | 44.9 | 40.0 | N.E. 45.0 53.0 | $2.3 | 80.0 | 30.6 = 
Mo. 10 | 30,005 | 43.6 | 40.2 N.E. 44.7 54.2 | 33.5 | 86.5 | 30.0 = 
Tu. 11 | 30.068 | 47.2 | 41.0 S.E. 44.5 54.5 | 29.8 | 99.5 | 25.0 | 0.290 
Means | 30.068 | 44.9 ) 40.5 44.9 53.4 | 32.9 | 90.8 | 80.0 | 0.290 

REMARKS. 

5th.—Fine morning, dull at noon, shower at 6 p.m, but not a measurable 


quantity. 
6th.—Dull and cold morning, cloudless but cold evening. 
7th.—A very fine bright day throughout. 
8th.—Very cold and dull, but not cloudy. 
9th.—Occasional sunshine, but very cold north-easterly winds. rs 
10th.—Dull morning, fine towards noon, very bright afterwards, but still 
very cold except in the sun. 5 
11th.—Very fine morning, less wind, and a trifle warmer, rather dull in 
the afternoon, and a wet evening 
Very dry week, with hot sun and cold winds, nights very clear. Mean 
morning temperature nearly the same as last week, but the mean of 
minima 5° less.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Aprin 12. 


BusINEss transactions have been more limited during the past week, 
owing to a much thinner attendance of buyers and the holidays. The 
continental trade by the way of Calais and Boulogne has also been much 
interrupted, not nearly the usual quantity of goods being sent at present. 
Large stocks of Potatoes are on hand, and many cargoes are held over. 
Yorkshire Flukes bring from 90s. to 100s. per ton; Regents, 60s. to 75s. > 
other varieties from 45s. to 65s. 


FRUIT. 

yep d 8.1 1d s.d. 8s. d 
6 to3 0 - 0 Oto0 0 
Apricots OZ. 0 00 00 oo 
i eel Dem OO O10; 6 6 10 0 
ushel10 0 18 6} 00 0980 
tsieve 0 0 0 0 20 60 
‘do. 10.0" =0)70) 00 00 
doz. 00 90 60 10 0 
spl Dp hOm Ona 60) OR 000. 
BPD 200 Mn 2616 Oo Welt 
Gooseberries......quart 0 0 0 0 £0) 07 {0'4:0- 
Grapes, Hothouse.... lb. 10 0 20 0 09m S 
Lemons.......-...- #100 6 0 10 0 10 0 16 0 
Melons...........-..each 0 0 0 0 10 26 

VEGETABLES. 
s.d. 8. a s.d. 8. d 
Artichokes .........d0z. 4 O0to6 0| Leeks............ bunch 0 4to0 6 
Asparagus ... 5 &E 7 0 10 0} Lettuce «= COZe ShenO EO, 
Beans, Kidney . 2 0 8 0} Mushrooms. pottle 10 26 
Broad... 0 0 O 0} Mustard&Cress..punnet 0 2 0 0 
Beet, Red. 2 0 8 O| Onions .......... bushel 5 0 8 0 
Broccoli ..... oes o9 16 pickling «quart 00 00 
Brussels Sprouts..;sieve 0 0 0 0| Parsley... sieve 8 0 60 
Cabbage..........-. doz 1 0 2 0} Parsnips. doz. 09 106 
Capsicums ..P100 0 0 0 0| Peas..... quart 0 0 0 0 
Carrots. ...- 0 4 0 8] Potatoes. bushel 2 0 40 
Cauliflower. G0) Kidney............d0. 8 0 4 0 
Celery.csscesesess 1 6 2 0} Radishes..doz.bunches 0 6 1 0 
Coleworts..doz. bunches 8 0 6 0| Rhubarb,.........bundle 0 4 1 @ 
3 OMG Solas G ae 16 20 
BAD Or Oey 20 80 
- 20 00 06 00 
03 00 80 65 @ 
» 08 00 ONOPUn0 
038 00 06 09 
80 60 00 00 


POULTRY MARKET.—Aprim 12. 


WE have real scarcity, almost famine. Prices haye not been higher for 
many years. They will Jast but a short time, but they will pay those well 
who can take advantage of them. 


8. -d. 8. da 
Large Fowls ........ 6 Oto6 6 | Pigeons ...... 
Smaller ditto . 0 5 6 | Rabbits .. 5 
Chickens . 6 4 6 |} Wild ditto 9 
Ducklings . 0 7°40 Hares .... 0 0 
Goslings .. 0 9 0 Guinea Fow! 0 8 
Pheasants....... 0 O O | Grouse .............. 0 0 0 


April 2°, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 283 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day wea ini | Clock | D 
y ge Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moo: Moon’s ay 
ape an APRIL 20—26, 1871. ture near London, |43 years.| Rises. | Sets Rises’ sates Age. ater ae 
| i Day. |Night|Mean.| Days. |m. h.|m. h.|m. h.|m. h.| Days. | m8. 
20 | TH | Meeting of Royal and Linnean Societies. 60.3 | 85.1 | 47.7 17 56af4 |) 2af7 41 afd | 46 af7 T 1 6] 110 
21 F 59.5 | 37.2 | 48.3 16 554 4 7/59 5)54 8 2 1 19} 111 
22 Ss 59.0 | 37.4 | 48.2 22 5 416 7/21 6| 59 9 3 1 31] 112 
23 Sun | 2 SUNDAY AFTER EASTER. | 59.2 | 36.8 | 48.0 21 51 4 Sil Ate 8G: 8 ll 4 1 431 113 
24 | M | Meeting of Royal Geographical Society, | 58.8 | 36.0 | 47.4 17 49 4/10 7/18 7| morn 5 1 54) 114 
25 Tu \ [8pm | 59.6 | 87.2 | 48.4 17 AT AW AI 7, 0 8); 8 6 2 5) 115 
26 W Meeting of Society of Arts, 8 Pp... 58.0 | 86.4 | 47.2 18 45 4,18 7/50 8 | 57 «(0 7 2 16) 116 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 59.2°, and its night tem- 


perature 36.6°. 
1.40 inch. 


The greatest heat was 80°, on the 25th, 1840; and the lowest cold 18°, on the 24th, 1954, The greatest fall of rain was 


VIOLETS—THEIR KINDS AND CULTURE. 


7S I grow Violets to a considerable extent for 
market, I will state my experience on their 
cultivation, which, however, only applies to 
them in the open ground. I do not grow any 
in pots. 

In the first place, I will make a few re- 
marks on the varieties, beginning with the 
white Violet of our hedgerows. This well 
repays cultivation, both by the size and the 
number of its flowers. The old Russian, too, 
although sometimes not so early in late summers nor so 
late in spring, is not always so—at least with me, for this 
season it was much earlier than any except Russian Su- 
perb, which is worth trying where there is space, on account 
of its earliness. The Czar is certainly fine, and very pro- 
ductive. There are three other varieties of single blue 
which must not be overlooked. The best of these, at least 
I like it best, is Devoniensis; it has a fine quite distinct 
purple shade. The other two are London and Crimean. 
These three have stems from 4 to 6 or more inches long, 
but not strong like The Czar or Giant, and they flower 
quite a month later than the old Russian ; and even after 
this very tiny flowers are produced throughout the summer, 
and afford a delightful scent, although, being so small, they 
are scarcely perceptible. There are some other single 
varieties, and I grow one, a dull pale red, very like the 
common white, except in colour. Another, which is white, 
a little earlier, but not so large nor so pure in colour, is 
White Russian, and another is quite as pure as the com- 
mon white, and about ten days earlier ; it is very distinct, 
having a hairy stem and spur, the spur purple or pinkish 
purple, and the plant is a profuse bloomer. - This I find 
very useful. I have no name for it. 

Now I will turn to the double varieties, and begin with 
those which are white. The old Double White I find very 
serviceable, partly on account of its long stem, and partly 
on account of its continuing longer in bloom than the 
common single one, and I have grown the Queen for some 
years. Ihad it the first year it was sent out, and although 
some— yes, the majority of the flowers are with me a mix- 
ture of white, pink, and grey, and many not very double, 
yet they have desirable qualities, for if you obtain but few 
really good flowers, yet a good one is something remark- 
able in size, colour, and scent; there is often a crop of 
flowers in autumn, and they are some weeks later than our 
hedgerow Violets. There is another double white which I 
cannot say much about, as I have not succeeded with 
it—Alba compacta. I do not think that it will do for market 
so well as some others. Lest I should omit it I must here 
observe that the Double Red is rather a favourite of mine ; 
it is anything but compact in growth, but when gathered it 
is very distinct and pretty, and continues as long in bloom 
as any that know. The Neapolitan is very distinct and 
beautiful, but requires protection in winter. The Tree 
Violet with me is a little earlier than the old blue, and 
very double. Brandyana is very distinct and pretty, and 
with me such an abundant bloomer that the flowers are 

No. 525,—Vou. XX., NEw SERIES. 


small; it is blue, purple, and white striped. I do not find 
it profitable for market, as it flowers so freely that the 
blooms are short-stemmed, and not fit to gather. I can 
manage to gather any other variety with stems of suffi- 
cient length—about an inch or so—but not this. I can- 
not say anything about The King, for I did not procure 
mine direct from Messrs. Henderson, and I rather think 
it is not true. I cannot distinguish any difference between 
it and the Tree Violet; I have fine rows of it, but some 
200 yards distant from the Tree Violet ; possibly this is not 
a fair trial. I shall pass over other varieties at present. 

I will next refer to soil. This I think cannot be made 
too rich, provided it is light and porous; with this there is 
no lack as to quantity or quality of bloom. Soil is, I think, 
much more important than aspect, although aspect must 
not be overlooked. A position to the north of high trees, 
and not subject to the drip from them, I find the best ; 
many of my plants are to the north of such trees with - 
naked stems, so that the sun shines underneath in winter, 
but they are shaded in summer. If, however, the soil is 
deep, light, and rich, they will bear a considerable amount 
of sunshine. 

Sunshine is very favourable to the increase of red spider. 
I find one of the best remedies, I might say the best, for 
the destruction of this insect is to cut off all the leaves 
about the end of August, and to give a good dressing of 
soot. The red spider is thus for the most part cleared 
off, and the insects left on the stems or hearts have but 
little chance of surviving; at least, I invariably find a 
healthy growth afterwards, and it continues throughout 
the winter. I have tried letting the leaves remain, but 
there is then a very poor weak growth, large patches be- 
coming quite rotten if the weather has been very dry; for 
the leaves that are very much affected with red spider die, 
and in wet weather cause the decay of their neighbours. 
Tf, on the other hand, you cut off the leaves, and do not 
dust them with soot, and if dry weather succeed you still 
have them covered with insects, and little or no good is 
effected. 

Perhaps I ought to say a few words about artificial 
drainage. This may be secured either in a separate bed 
or in patches in an ordinary border—for a bed by putting 
in 15 or more inches of stone or rubble as drainage, with 
at least 18 inches of soil on the top, and in an ordinary 
border by taking out a hole 15 inches in diameter, and 
about 23 feet or so deep, putting the drainage in the bottom, 
and filling up with the soil. 

I must not quite omit the time of planting. If the plants 
you procure are not in pots I think September the best 
time; but if you plant in winter or spring after growth 
commences it is necessary to cut off all the young leaves. 
I find the plants do very well planted in any open weather 
from September till April. 

I plant my Violets at 18 inches apart in beds of three 
rows each; this affords room for hoeing the intervals 
between the rows while the plants are growing. I some- 
times plant them at 6 inches apart, sometimes at 1 foot 
apart in the rows, just as I have a large stock of plants or 


otherwise. They soon spread and fill the beds; but they 
No, 1177.—Vou. XLV., OLD SEEts. 


284 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


ought not to remain more than three years in the same place, 
nnless you take off the runners and add manure liberally, 
otherwise you get the flowers small and short-stemmed. The 
outside rows of the opposite beds ought to be 2 feet 6 inches 
apart; this gives room for a 1-foot path between the beds, 
which, if the plants do well, will not be too much.—G. L., 
Market Gardener. 


[Our correspondent has sent us blooms of some of the va- 
rieties of Violets which are remarkable for the size and beauty 
of the flowers and the great length of the stalks: this is espe- 
cially the case in ‘‘ Queen,” ‘ Devoniensis,” and ‘ King.” 
The first and last are very handsome.—Eps. | 


WHEN just commencing to write a few lines on Violets, the 
Journal arrived, and brought the charming letter from what 
must be a charming spot—the land of Beulah. That sucha 
spot, that such friends of flowers as the young ladies of Gera- 
nium Cottage, should be without Violets is indeed ‘‘a mistake,” 
That an alliance so natural, suitable, and becoming as young 
ladies and Violets should not be speedily effected were a loss to 
both, and so evidently thought the ‘‘ old Googeberries.” 

Every garden worthy of the name should have Violets. 
Nothing can give 2 more pleasurable return for the outlay 
necessary to their prosperity than beds of these lovely flowers, 
chaste in beauty and redolent of perfume. They are of the 
first to answer the summous of the sun, calling on the earth to 
give up its treasures. It is asource of strength to the gardener 
to feel that his efforts are productive of pleasure. It nerves 
the arm, clears the head, and warms the heart. It lightens 
the cares of life, turus toil into pleasure, and is en ever-present 
ae Would that employers generally could understand 

is. 

But a few words practical, not cultural. As! to kinds, my 
experience is precisely that of the “old Gooseberries.”” I have 
tried and discarded Kings and Queens, and stripes, and uncom- 
mon sorts with fine names and characters. They are either 
deficient in opening their blooms, in constitution, colour, or per- 
fume. Five varieties are what I now exclusively rely on—viz., 
Single Russian, Single White (not many of these), Giant or 
Czar, Neapolitan, and Double Russian. These are enumerated 
in their order of blooming, and will give e supply, subject to 
weather in some degree, from January to May, especially if a 
portion of the Donbie Russian be planted in the coolest and most 
shaded place in the garden. 

The main plantation should be in a sheltered place for early 
bloom. Here I would sound a note of warning, not to regard a 
wall as shelter, and plant in front of it. This is 2 common 
practice and a common error. A hedge is the natural shelter 
for Violets; but no credit to me for the idea, which was imparted 
to me by my present employer, and has been acted on for many 
years with the best success. Violets have here been grown in 
the same bed for twenty years, and this spring have been as 
fine, if not finer, than ever. The border is ® narrow one by 
the side of a walk. It slopes to the south. The shelteris a 
row of espalier iruit trees running east and west. Here they 
flourish remarkably, but if instead of the trees the shelter were 

wall they would linger miserably. I know it is so because I 

tried it, and since the idea occurred to me I have observed 

result in scores of instances. Under the wall the roots are 
dried up in the summer, and, which is of even more importance, 
they lack the current of air passing over them to keep the red 
spider down. In their naturel habitat, hedge bottoms in the 
country, a draught of pure air passes over them continually. 
In towns they lack this, and are seldom seen in a healthy state. 

One half of the Violet border here is taken up every year 
and replanted. The half left produces the errliest blooms, the 
newly-planted half coming in a little later with finer blooms, 
and affording longer pickings. Tho half left last year is taken 
up this. Thus the whole bed isrenewedin two years. Nothing 
could answer better than this practice, except as to the Double 
Russian. Every two years is quite often enough to replant this, 
letting a portion remain three or four years without removal. 
At every replanting some old soil is taken out and fresh put in 
—turfy roadside choppings, no manure. 

Planting is done as soon as convenient after blooming, The 
plants are soaked with water occasionally to have them estab- 
lished, and dressed with soot frequently to ward off attacks of 
ved spider. The soil is worked deeply, and is good from top to 
bottom. This induces the roots to strike downwards, and pre- 
vents much suffering from drought. ' 

The Czar, or what I call the Giant, seeds freely enough, and 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ April 20, 1871. 
reproduces itself as truly as the Single Russian does, but it 
blooms very sparingly, and is not worth growing in this way. 
Neither it nor the Russian, however, are seeding freely this year; 
the sun being so hot has dried up the embryo seed vessels, 
which is the case with other things besides Violets, the seed of 
which, or the pulp surrounding it, is of more value than Violet 
pods. The variety I have under the name of Giant is better 
than that named The Czar, in being more free in growth and 
free in blooming.—J. W., Lincoln. 


CULTURE OF WEEDS. 
So use thy foes as to improve thy fortune.” 

I Have long been a reader of ‘‘ our Journal,” and have often 
been interested as well as instructed by the many and varied 
methods of cultivation set forth and debated in its pages, but I 
do not remember to have noticed the ‘‘ Cultivation of Weeds,” 
although it appears to me that instruction as to their culture is 
of gome importance to most cultivators of the soil—I say most, 
because I observe in the accounts given by some of your corre- 
spondents, that in the best kept gardens weeds are not allowed. 
Well, all I cam say un that subject is, that I have not seen a 
garden so kept. Weeds, says a friend of mine, ‘ will be sure 
to take advantage of the gardenex’s absence, particularly at cer- 
tain seasons of the year, so much so that it is necessary to do 
little more than close the garden door, and return to find a fresh 
batch of the pests.” 

Now, if weeds are the rule and must be endured, at least would 
it not be advisable for the gardener to include them in his cate- 
logue of plants to be cultivated, and then try to turn them to 
account? This appears to me quite within the bounds of possi- 
bility ; ifit should be disputed, we must acknowledge one of 
two facts, either that weeds, as a class, are an unmitigated evil, 
or that horticulturists have not arrived at a sufficiently advanced 
state of proficiency in their art to enable them to realise their 
intended position in the vegetable world. 

Then as to their proper cultivation, ifsuch must beadmitied, 
so a8 toenable them to fulfil their appointed place in the economy 
of Nature, it is necessary to ascertain first to what useful pur- 
pose they can be applied. My answer is, to manure the ground 
on which they have grown. If lam right in this opinion, then 
the more matured they are, short of seeding, the better, for them 
they will have drawn from the earth and air all the elements of 
which vegetation is composed, which, when dug into the ground 
and decomposed, will be within the reach of the succeeding crop. 
To accomplish this, all that is necessary is to hoe or rake over 
the ground after each crop in September or October, and allow 
the seed to strike and grow, which will not only rid us of the 
seed which would otherwise remain as @ pest for years to come, 
but also be a benefit to the sueceeding crop.—STARBECE. 


CINERARIA CULTURE. 


Amonest: softwooded spring-flowering plants suitable for 
decorative purposes in the greenhouse and conservatory, also 
for placing in various positions in dwelling-houses, there are 
few more useful than the Cineraria. The plant is inexpensive 
as regards its first cost, and when well managed nothing can be 
more striking than its dense masses of brilliant-coloured 
flowers. Admirers of this flower who have frequented the 
metropolitan exhibitions during the present season must have 
observed a considerable falling-off, both as regards the finish 
of the specimen plents sent for competition in the various 
classes, and also in the quality of the flowers, neither being 
more than second-rate. Probably this may arise from the sum 
offered in prizes not being deemed suflicient to cover the ex- 
penses of conveying large plants to and from the exhibition ; 
certainly plants with heads of flower 15 inches across are not 
what one expects to see at the London shows. Even the varie- 
ties do not seem to be improvements on those which used to 
be set up for exhibition a dozen years ago. 

Of new varieties introduced to the notice of the public 
during the present season, some of the flowers seem to be ac- 
quisitions—large in size, and of good form and substance, 
bright and decided colours being predominant amongst them. 
No certificates have been awarded to any of them; probably in 
some cases the seedling plants only were shown. Messrs. 
Standish & Co., of Ascot, haye produced some good seedlings, 
and there were some promising flowers sent to the first April 
meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society by Messrs. F. & A. 
Smith, Dulwich. ‘ 

For ordinary decorative purposes I prefer seedlings, as being 


April 20, 1871. 7 


less troublesome to manage, although named varieties are easily 
cultivated. If it is intended to grow seedlings, it is well to 
make sure that the seed has been obtained from the best- 
named and well-marked sorts, as it? is as easy to grow good 
flowers as bad ones, the difference in the price of the seeds 
being but of small moment in comparison to the disappoint- 
ment of having second-rate flowers only. { 

To haye a fine bloom of good-sized plants in March and 
April, sow the seeds about the Ist of May, using well-drained 
pots or pans, and scattering the seeds thinly in a compost of 
equal parts of loam and leaf mould, with the addition of a 
little silver sand, mixing these materials in a rough state. Fill 
the pot or pan three parts full, and pass through a sieve a small 
portion, in which the seeds should be sown, just placing over 
them as much of the fine soil as will cover them. A little 
damp moss laid on the surface will keep the soil moist until 
the seeds germinate, when it must be removed. If tho pot is 
plunged in a hotbed, or in a slight bottom heat, the young plants 
will soon appear. ‘They must not be exposed too freely to the 


sun; a slight shade is desirable during the whole of the sum- | 


mer months if the plants are grown in a frame. I prefer that 
the back part of the frame should be turned to tho south; even 
in this position shading is necessary. As soon as the plants 
are large enough to handle, pot them off singly in 3-inch pots, 
and as soon as the pots are tolerably full of roots they should 
be shifted into 5 or 6-inch pots, and again shifted when necos- 
sary. It is not easy to give instructions to those who have 
little acquaintance with gardening as to the best time to repot 
plants; the Cineraria is very impatient of being pot-bound, 
or being allowed to suffer from want of sufficient water. If the 
plants receive a check in any way, hordes of green fly are sure 
to attack them in the most persistent manner. They are also 
Niable to be attacked by thrips, which, if not destroyed, will 
soon render the plants unsightly. The best manner of destroy- 
ing thesa pests is to fumigate with tobacco smoke; this is far 
superior toany of the ‘ blight mixtures ;” for Cinerarias, Cal- 
eeolarias, and other tender-foliaged plants are easily injured if 
the mixture is applied too strong. 

The plants should be ehifted into thoir blooming pots late in 
autucn, after which they should be kept near the glass. I 
prefer a span-roofed structure for wintering them, as there is 
generally a freer circulation of air in houses of this description. 
Tho only attention the plants require during winter is the re- 
moval of all decayed and decaying leaves, and if handsome 
specimen plants are desired, the shoots should be bent down, 
either by pegging them to the surface soil in the pot, or by 
twisting a wire round the pot close under the rim, and tying 
them down to if. 

There is always 2 considerable amount of interest in wateh- 
ing the development of the flowers, to mark those with the 
most brilliant and decided colours and that approach nearest to 
the florist’s standard. The habit of the plants is also of great 
importance; those having a compact, bushy habit are to be 
preferred. Some of the varieties have a tall, straggling habit, 
so that the flowers do not form a compact head. When a 
Cineraria is well managed, ao signs of training should be per- 
esived without looking underneath the plant; all the sticks 
and pegs should bo hidden by the masses of flowers. 

If it is desirable to propagate any of the plants by cuttings, 
the plants should be cut over as soon as they have ceased 
flowering, and they will throw up numerous young shoots from 
the base of the old stem; and:as soon as the shoots have made 
three or four leaves they can be drawn out by the finger and 
thumb and potted singly in 3-inch pots, treating them in the 
same way as recommended for seedlings. When tho plants are 
repotted, a small quantity of well-decomposed manure should 
be added to the compost.—J. Douvenas. 


_ ARWM MACULATUM. 


I map often thought that a good variegated Arum maculatum 
would be very ornamental for the spring flower border, but it 
was long before I could find one; at last, during one of my 
rambles, I discovered one with an irreguler marginal varie- 
gation of white, but I am afraid it will beinconstant. My little 
boy came home one morning last spring and gaid, ‘‘ Father, I 
know where there is an Arum with a yellow edge to its leaves.” 
Away I went on the first. opportunity to the place he indicated, 
and sure enough there was a fine plant growing exactly as he 
had described it. ZI could see it a good way off. I dug it up, 
and of course brought it home and potted it, and if it preserve 
the same character as it presented last season, I shall feel rather 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


285 


proud of it. There is scmething striking about these Arums; 
the variegation is of such a bold character that they must take 
a front rank amongst hardy variegated svring-flowering plants 
when they come into the hands of the public. Ihave not done 
with Arum maculatum yet; if'all be well I shall doubtless find 
other varieties during the coming spring. Great numbers of 
Arums grow in the hedges, and almost everywhere in our 
neighbourhood.—W. H., Cromwell House. 


THE PRESERVATION OF APPLES. 


Ir has been said that ‘‘ There is nothing new under the sun,” 
and certainly, if the mode of preserving Apples, somo of which 
I send you as an example, is not new, it is, I believe, an un- 
common mode to adopt—namely, to ‘camp’ them, or, as it is 
called in this neighbourhood to ‘‘pie” them. hoe camping of 
Potatoes is so well known that I need but briefly refer to it. 
The Potatoes are placed on a smooth and dry surface, on and 
around them a layer of clean dry straw is placed to the depth 
of several inches, and over all is put a thickness of soil, say 
9 inches or a foot. This protection is considered sufficient 
to render all safe from frost. To-day, April 13th, I have been 
shown by a retired gentleman farmer on this estate a quantity 
of Apples which were preserved throughout the winter as de- 
scribed above from October last. The experiment, or rather 
the idea, struck the gentleman more owing to necessity, which 
is the mother of invention, than anything else. Last year 
Apples were very plentiful nearly everywhere, and in this 
instance all the ordinary storing-room was occupied, and then 
a quantity of Apples remained on hand to be taken care of. 
The camping system was had recourse to, and the result was 
favourable. Iam informed that in future, even if storing-room 
be available, the gentleman will not hesitate to adopt the same 
course. 

My object in noticing the matter is not because this mode of 
preserving Apples is to be adopted by those who have ample 


store-room at command, but simply to show that Apples can ~ 


be stored in as easy a manner as Potatoes. Iam informed 
that when the ‘ Apple-pie”’ was opened very few Appies were 
found to be decayed, nor had they heated. I think the variety 
is that called Minchall Crab, and if noi that, be good enough 
to say what it is.—J. Garpner, Hlsham Hall Gardens, Brigg. 


[The specimens sent to us were in very excellent condition. 
They are the Minchall Crab.— Eps, } 


GARDENERS EXCHANGING PLANTS WITH 
OTHER GARDENERS. 


A casE occurred last week at the Clerkenwell Police Court 
which deserves some comment. A gardener was charged with 
stealing his employe:’s clothes and Geraniums. Whe theft of 
the clothes was clearly disproved, the wife’ of bis employer 
acknowledging she had sold them to him, and been paid for 
them! Now, after such a false charge had been allowed to 
be brought against the gardener, we should have had some 
difficulty had we been on the bench ia convicting him of haying 
stolen the Geraniums, especially as the defence was that he 
was not taking the Geraniums in question for any felonious 
purpose, but for the purpose of giving thom to. another gardener 
in exchange for enttings of a different class. By this arrange- 
ment the prosecutor, instead of being va loser, was a gainer by 
the transaction. However, the Magistrate fined the gardener 
40s. and 3s. costs, or a month’s imprisonment. 

We notice the case for the purpose of warning all gurdeners 
never to exchange plants unless they have the clear permission 
from their employers in writing. We have before us a letter 
from a well-known head gardener, in which he says—‘‘ I have 
always stated that a gardener should depend on no custom, 
and should neither give nor take a cutting or a plaut without 
a clear understanding. ‘With some employers I should not 
consider myself safe unless the understanding were in writing. 
I know a case whee the gardener was encouraged to beg and 
borrow all he could, and then was punished because he gave 
away what was worth 3d.” 


BiruincHam Rosr SHow.—We are requested to draw atten- 


‘tion to an advertisement which appears in another column, 


announcing the days fixed for the next Show. It will probably 
be regretted by some of the Rose-growers who have been repular 
exhibitors in former years that other days could not have been 


236 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ April 20, 1871. 


CO Or  — ———SSSSSFSSSSSSSSSSSSmmmmMsseFsSSSSsSSSsSSSSSSSSSSSSsse 


selected, but the Committee had no alternative but to choose 
the days now announced, as the Town Hall, in which the Show 
bas always been held, is bespoken for all other eligible days. 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 
Aprin 197TH. 


Txovax the special subjects of the Show were not so numerous as 
desirable, there was on this occasion an excellent miscellaneous ex- 
hibition, and the attendance of visitors was much better than could 
have been expected in such mild and fitful, but truly April weather, 
though, no doubt, many were attracted by the bazaar in aid of the 
French relief fund. 

The Azaleas were, on the whole, not equal to those shown in former 
years, the specimens small, and many of them not in full bloom. In 
the open class for nine, Messrs. Lane, of Great Berkhampstead, were 
first with well-bloomed pyramidal plants about 3 feet high, of President 
Humann and Murryana; among the others, which were of much less 
size, were Rubens and Duchesse de Nassau, two brilliant-coloured 
varieties. In the nurserymen’s class for six, Messrs. Lane were again 
first—President Humann ; Cedo Nulli, purple ; Bride of Abydos, white 
flaked with rose ; and Minerva were the most noteworthy. Messrs. 
Dobson, of Isleworth, were second. In the amateurs’ class for the 
same number, Mr. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart., was 
awarded a second prize. The best single specimen was a remarkably 
fine example of President Humann, forming a mass of rosy blossom 
5 feet, or so, in height. 

For six forced Rhododendrons, Messrs. Lane were first with ex- 
cellently-bloomed compact plants of Sir Isaac Newton, purple; Sir 
Charles Napier, rose, with a fine head of bloom ; Minnie, Leviathan, 
and Exquisite, blush and white kinds, and Maculatum grandifloram, 
rosy purple. Messrs. Standish & Co., of Ascot, took the second prize; 
Roseum compactum and Charles Cranham were bright-coloured and 
free-flowering, though not yet at their best. Miss Brisco appeared to 
be a good, dark-spotted, white variety. The third prize went to Mr. 
Woodward, gardener to Mrs. Torr, for plants forming large masses of 
bloom. For twelve cut trusses, Messrs. Lane were first with fine 
trusses of richly-coloured varieties. Equal second prizes were given 
to Mr. J. Woodward, gardener to Mrs. Torr, Garbrand Hall, Ewell, 
and to Messrs. Standish & Co. The latter had among others the fine 
white Rhododendron A ucklandii. 

Prizes were offered for Auriculas, not only by the Society, but also 
by the recently instituted Metropolitan Floral Society, and the result 
was a better show of this flower than we have of late had near London. 
As, however, this part of the Exhibition will be reported on by “‘D., 
Deal,” it will be merely necessary to state here, that for collections of 
twelve the prizes were awarded to Mr. Turner, of Slough, and Mr. 
James, gardener to W. F’. Watson, Esq., Isleworth ; forsix, to Mr. James 
and the Rev. H H. Dombrain ; and for twelve Alpines, to Mr. Turner 
and Mr. James. Mr. Turner likewise exhibited fine collections, both 
of the Show and Alpine kinds. 

Of Pansies in pots, only one collection was shown. Thiscame from } 
Mr. James, and well deserved the first prize. Rey. H. H. Dombrain, 
W. B. Spiers, selfs, Robert Burns, and Beauty were excellent. Only 
one collection of Lachenalias was shown, but that was not deemed 
worthy of anaward. For a basket of spring-flowering plants a second 
prize was given to Mr. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart 
It contained Dielytra spectabilis, Primroses, Polyanthuses, Wall- 
flowers, Tulips, Pansies, &e. Mr. William Paul offered prizes for the 
best three plants of Princess Christian Rose, but no exhibitor came 
forward to claim them 

Prominent among the miscellaneous subjects, which, as usual, were 
numerous, were splendid groups of Roses, exhibited by Mr. Turner, 
of Slough, and Messrs. Veitch. The former had a splendid specimen 
of Maréchal Vaillant ; Miss Ingram, fine; Marie Baumann very fresh 
and bright, Baroness Rothschild, as well as many others, fine. In 
Messrs. Veitch’s group Princess Mary of Cambridge was very fine, and 
there were beautifully-flowered examples of La France, Morsieur 
Noman, Victor Verdier, and Duke of Edinburgh, the whole being ad- 
mirably bloomed. Messrs. Veitch likewise contributed an interesting 
group of Acers, as the bronze-leaved and variegated forms of Acer 
dissectum, Acer polymorphum, and its variety atropurpureum, the 
latter forming a good contrast with the lively green-leayed variety. A 
mixed group from the same firm contained many fine Orchids, as 
Dendrobium Wardii, D. Schreederi, Cypripedium levigatum with five 
spikes, and several flowers on each, Oncidium sarcodes, a fine Vanda 
cristata, a beautiful plant of Odontoglossam nevium, and the Lilac- 
like Epidendrum paniculatum. In the same group were the handsome 
variegated Phormium Colensoi and Anthurium Scherzerianum, with 
very large spathes. Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord Londesborough, 
sent a group of Orchids, in which were remarkably fine specimens of 
Cattleya Skinneri, the old Phajus Wallichi, and Arpophyllum gigan- 
teum. Dendrobium Jenkinsi on a block formed a fine orange mass, 
and of Cypripedium Lowii Mr. Denning had a plant with two branch- 
ing spikes, each bearing four flowers. 

Mr. Bull contributed a numerous group of Orchids, including Ly- 
eastes, Odontoglossums, Oncidiums, &c., together with Palms. Messrs, 
Rollisson, of Tooting, sent a mixed group of flowering stove and green- 
house plants and Orchids, with Palms and fine-foliaged plants. 

Mr. Ware contributed a very extensive group of spring-flowering 


| bed of Gladiolus fails to do. 


plants admirably bloomed, along with others having variegated foliage. 
The lilac variety of Primula cortusoides was here very fine. Mr. 
Osman, gardener to R. Holland, Esq., Stanmore, sent stands of cut 
Roses, including blooms of Maréchal Niel. 

From Mr. Woodward, gardener to Mrs. Torr, Ewell, came a speci- 
men of Vanda suavis with two fine spikes, also Rhododendron Countess 
of Haddington in fine bloom ; and from Mr. Stalker, gardener to the 
Right Hon. G. Hardy, Hemsted Park, Staplehurst, a magnificent 
specimen of Dendrobium densiflorum. Mr. Wheeler, gardener to Sir 
F. Goldsmid, Bart., Regent’s Park, contributed a group of fine-foliaged 
and flowering stove and greenhouse plants; and Mr. W. E. Dixon, 
Norwood Nursery, Beverley, a remarkable group of stove and green- 
house plants. In this was a splendid specimen of Anthurium Scher- 
zerianum, and a variety of the same with a duplication of the spathe 
on the opposite side to that which the true spathe occurs in the ordi- 
nary form of the species, and perhaps resulting from the partial trans- 
formation of the spadix, which was of less size. Magnificent specimens 
of Vanda suayis and Platycerium grande, together with large and fine 
plants of Adiantum farleyense, Phomium Colensoi, Palms, Cypri- 
pedium Lowii, and several Orchids. 

Mr. Turner sent several baskets of Tricolor Pelargoniums; Mr. 
James and Mr. Hooper, of Bath, stands of Pansies, the latter also 
exhibiting Sunshine, a fine free-growing orange-buff-and-brown bedding 
Pansy. -Messrs. Lane exhibited a very extensive group of Rhodo- 
dendrons, Roses, and forced shrubs, forming a grand mass of bloom; 
the Rhododendrons in particular were admirable, being dwarf plants 
with large heads of blossom. 


To myself personally this was a show of peculiar interest. Amongst 
my manias for florists’ flowers, I think that perhaps my earliest love is 
still my strongest, and much as of late years the Rose and the Gla- 
diolus have shared my attention, and, perhaps, robbed the Auricula of 
some of the warmth of devotion I used to feel for it, yet, after all, 
as the year rolls round I find the old love awakening, and the sight 
of a stage of Auriculas stirs up feelings that even a rosarium or a 
It may be that difficulty adds something 
to this feeling. Everybody who has soil suitable can grow the Rose, 
everybody can make a soil suitable for the Gladiolus; but the Auri- 
cula requires patient care and skill, watchfulness all the year round, 
but I think it amply rewards the cultivator for his pains. I had 
another point of interest in to-day’s Show, it was the first time that 
the Metropolitan Floral Society had offered prizes, and to see the 
grand old flower taken up by a new agency was a pleasure indeed. 

The season, I hear on all sides, has been unfavourable to the 
Anuricula. It delights in a cool atmosphere, and the intense heat of 


| last summer necessitated such constant watering, that the good was 
| washed out of the soil. The plants had not the vigour they ough 
| to have had. Very many plants, all the growers tell me, like my own, 


failed to send up trusses at all, and many that did so contained only 
two and three pips. The result of this was manifested to-day, for 
although the Auriculas shown were very fine, yet in some instances 
the trusses were small; they were, however, very true to character, and 
this is a great point as showing what they may be in size. I had a 
bloom of Ne Plus Ultra on my stage with three pips on it, each 
of which measured 2 inches across, but then this size was gained at 
the expense of refinement, and I should no more have dreamed of 
showing it than of flying, for, say what people will, the eye even of 
those not educated to it, is attracted more by refinement and beauty 
than size. 

Of the Royal Horticultural Society’s prizes for twelve Auriculas 
(open), the first prize was awarded to Mr. Turner for the following 
varieties :—Omega (Turner), Colonel Champneys (Turner), Unique, 
Mrs. Sturrock, Richard Headly, Miss Martin, Morning Star, Miss 
Giddings (Read), Competitor, Trafalgar, and Galatea. With the ex- 
ception of Richard Headly I regarded these flowers as somewhat 
coarse ; owing, doubtless, to very good feeding, the foliage was splen- 
did. Mr. James, gardener to F. W. Watson, Esq., Isleworth, was 
second with a seedling, Meteor Flag, Mrs. Sturrock, Bright Phebus, 
Blackbird, Royal Purple, General Bolivar, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. James, 
Meteor, Alma, and Mayfield. In the class for sixes, amateurs, the 
first prize was awarded to Mr. James for Bright Phebus, Mrs. Smith, 
True Briton, Ne Plus Ultra, Lovely Anne, and Mrs. Sturrock; the 
second to the Rev. H. H. Dombrain, Westwell Vicarage, Ashford, 
Kent, for George Lightbody, Imperator, Duke of Wellington, Hannibal, 
True Briton, and Conqueror of Europe. 

There was a smart competition for the prizes offered by the Metro- 
politan Floral Society. The first prize for six varieties, distinct, was 
awarded to the Rey. H. H. Dombrain for the following :—George 
Lightbody (very fine), Redwyn’s Metropolitan, Martin’s Mrs. Sturrock, 
Traill’s Mayflower, Miss Willoughby, and Popplewell’s Conqueror. 
The second was awarded to H. Little, Esq., Cambridge Villa, Twicken- 
ham, for Duke of Cambridge, Richard Headly, General Neill, Ne 
Plus Ultra, Lancashire Hero, and Eclipse. In the single class the 
prizes were as follows:—Green edge: First, Mr. James, for Oliver's 
Lovely Anne; second, Mr. Turner, for Traill’s Prince of Greens; and 
third, Mr. Butcher, for Mrs. Butcher. Grey edges: First to Mr. 
Turner for Richard Headly; second to Rey. H. H. Dombrain for 
George Lightbody ; third to Mr. James for Superb. In White edges: 
The first to Mr. James for Ne Plus Ultra; the second to Mr. James 
for Earl Grosvenor; the third to the Rey. H. H. Dombrain for 


Ts 


na Seale es <2 


April 20, 1871. } 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


287 


Catharina. In Selfs: The first to Mr. Turner for Bessie Bell; se- 
cond to Mr. James for Mrs. Smith; and third to Rev. H. H. Dombrain 
for Pizarro. There were also some very beautiful Alpine Auriculas 
exhibited by Mr. Turner and Mr. James. Some of the newer ya- 
rieties exhibited by the former gentleman showed a great advance 
in form, size, and colour. I must leave others to tell of the other 
features of the Show, and can only hope that as the Metropolitan 
Floral Society has made a good commencement, so it may be en- 
couraged to proceed, and that at another spring show we may see an 
accession of exhibitors.—D., Deal. 


Frouir Commirree.—G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. Mr. 
Cadger, The Gardens, Luton Hoo, sent fruit of the seedling Cucumber 
exhibited at last meeting, in a younger state than those last sent. The 
Committee named it Luton Hoo, and awarded it a first-class certificate. 
Mr. Turner, of Slough, sent a plant of his Prolific Black Spine Cucum- 
ber ina pot. The plant was only a yard high, and had seven good 
fruits upon it. It was awarded a special certificate. Mr. Rendle sent 
specimens of Endive and Lettuce grown under his plant protectors at 
Belvoir; members of the Committee remarked that they had better 
examples grown in the open air without protection. Mr. Barron 
brought from Chiswick specimens of Dandelion of the selected stock 
obtained by the late Madame Vilmorin of Paris. One was named Cour 
plein, and the other Broad-leaved. They were very large, and pro- 
duced a great profusion of leaf and root. Mr. C. M. McCrow, the 
Gardens, Nash Court, Faversham, sent two Queen Pines, produced on 
plants two years old from the sucker, each weighing 41bs. They were 
awarded a special certificate. 

Mr. C. Osman, The Gardens, Stanmore Hall, sent a dish of Straw- 


berries, and Mr. Stalker, of Hemsted Park, Staplehurst, sent a dish | 


of good Keens’ Seedling. Mr. Rivers, of Sawbridgeworth, sent shoots 
of Apricots from an orchard house densely set with fruit, and also a 
collection of March and April Apples in very sound condition. The 
Spring Ribston was a little past in flavour, but sound in flesh. Rei- 


nette du Canada was more highly flavoured, and equally sound; | 


Duke of Devonshire very rich; Brownlees’ Russet very tender in 
flesh, and with a fine brisk flavour. Cornish Aromatic was rich and 
tender; Newtown Pippin very firm, juicy, and of excellent flavour. 


Sturmer Pippin was equally firm and juicy, and rather acid; Clay- | 


gate Pearmain very good. Lord Burghley was high-coloured and 
handsome, very solid and firm, with a fine flavour; Mannington’s 
Pearmain tender-fleshed, a little past, but with good flavour; Allen’s 
Everlasting, an excellent Apple, firm, and full of juice, with a delicate 
flesh, and fine flavour; Melon Apple, rather woolly and past. Brad- 
dick’s Nonpareil was flat and tasteless; Reinette de Friesland, a fine, 
fresh, briskly-flayoured Apple. A collection of very handsome and 


well-kept kitchen Apples was also exhibited. A special certificate was | 


awarded to each collection. Mr. Rivers also sent three dishes of 

large and well-coloured Uvedale’s St. Germain Pears equal in 

colour to those usually imported under the name of Belle Angevine. 
Mr. Gardiner, of Lower Eatington Park, Stratford-on-Avon, sent a 


collection of thirty-four varieties of Apples all named, to which a | 


special certificate was awarded. 


Friorat Commirrer.—Mr. J. Fraser in the chair, On this occa- 
sion the novelties were not very numerous. Foremost among them 
was Cypripedium niveum from Mr. G. Ward, gardener to D. Berring- 
ton, Esq., Pant-y-Goitre, Abergavenny. This was remarkable in every 
sense—remarkable for its free flowering, one of the specimens having 
ten flowers, which from the compactness of the plant formed quite a 
close mass of flowers, and remarkable from its entire distinctness of 
colour from any other Ladies’ Slipper which we lnow, being pure 
white, with some faint dottings of purple, externally more marked, 
and with delicate lemon blotches in the lip. This received a first- 
class certificate. A like award was made to Mr. Denning, gardener to 
Lord Londesborough for Odontoglossum odoratum, yellow, spotted 
with brown, not, however, remarkable for its beauty. He also exhi- 
bited a Sarcopodium from Rangoon, with a large showy flower, buff 
lined longitudinally with crimson, and a pretty lilac variety of Epiden- 
drum ibaguense. 

Mr. Dixon, nurseryman, Beverley, recoived a first-class certificate 
for his singular variety of Anthurium Scherzerianum named Dixoni, 
which has been already noticed; and similar awards were made to 
Messrs. Veitch for Acer japonicum dissectum and ornatum, two beau- 
tiful-leayed varieties shown also in a collection previously noticed. 
Mr. Fairbairn, gardener to J. Noakes, Esq., Lewisham, sent seedling 
Rhododendron The Bride, with large pure white flowers, apparently a 
hybrid raised from some of the Indian species. ‘This had a first-class 
certificate and promises to be an acquisition. Mr. Chambers, gar- 
dener to J. Lawrence, Esq., Beddington, had special certificates for 
cut blooms of Rhododendrons Dalhousie and Beaumontia grandiflora, 

’ the large white flowers of the latter being especially beautiful, though 
those of the former were not considered to equal the kind figured by 
Dr. Hooker. 

Mr. Turner, of Slough, had first-class certificates for Tea Rose 
Belle Lyonnaise, a seedling from Gloire de Dijon, to which it bears 
considerable resemblance, but, as shown, of finer form and rather dif- 
ferent in colour; and for Alpine Auriculas Sultan and Marquis of 
Westminster, reddish maroon, of fine form. A splendid scarlet Pink 
called Princess Louise, from Mr. W. Lee, also received a first-class 


certificate. This was shown at the previous meeting, but not equally 
fine. Mr. Stalker, gardener to the Right Hon. G. Hardy, M.P., had a 
special certificate for his specimen of Dendrobium densiflorum already 
noticed; and Mr. Williams, Holloway, for a group of Orchids, Palms, 
&c. In this was Restrepia antennifera, a singular and pretty little 
insect-like Orchid. For Maxillaria luteo-grandiflora in another col- 
lection from the same exhibitor a first-class certificate was awarded. 
The flowers are brownish yellow, purple, and white, and more effective 
than those of many of the genus. Mr. Williams also exhibited Ama- 
ryllids and Palms, which must be seen again. 

Mr. Bull had a, first-class certificate for Azalea Marvel with small 
magenta flowers. M. Van Houtte, of Ghent, sent a beautiful collec- 
tion of new Indian Azaleas, admirably grown and flowered, and very 
striking, though deficient in some qualities. These were much ad- 
mired, and the task of selection was difticult. The Committee gave 
first-class certificates to Marquis of Lorne, salmon red; Comtesse de 
Beaufort, rosy crimson, with a dark crimson blotch in the upper petals; 
Alice, a fine semi-double, bright rosy crimson; Président de Ghel- 
linck de Warlle, semi-double, rosy crimson; and George Loddiges, 
salmon red, with a large deep crimson blotch. 

Of other subjects shown there were Ferns planted on and in im- 
ported stems of Tree Ferns, from Mr. Woodward, Ewell, after the 
manner pursued at the establishments of Messrs. Veitch and Mr. 
Williams; seedling Zonal Pelargoniums from Mr. Peeke, nurseryman, 
Tunbridge Wells; and a white variety of Azalea pontica from Mr. 
Tanton, of Epsom. Azalea obtusa, from Mr. Woodward, formed a 
pretty pyramid of red blossom. 


GENERAL Mrrtinc.—W. Marshall, Esq., in the chair. After the 
election of twenty-two new members the awards of the Committees 
were announced by the Rey. M. J. Berkeley and Mr. Wilson, Chair- 
man of the Fruit Committee. 

The Rey. M. J. Berkeley then said the Rey. Mr. Ellacombe, of 
Bitterne Vicarage, Bath, had sent a most interesting collection, al- 
though it was rather late in the season for that neighbourhood ; others 
had come from Mr. Moore at Chelsea, and Mrs. Lloyd Wynne. Mr. 
Berkeley then remarked that Helleborus lividus and orientalis, of 
which examples were produced, were good plants for shrubberies and 
planting among low trees, and that H. fotidus was also so, though 
formerly, where plentiful in Northamptonshire, it had been everywhere 
grubbed up. He also exhibited a spike of Ornithogalum nutans. 
This he said was commonly admitted, when its shoots were pushing, 
to the markets at Bath as Asparagus, for which it formed a very good 
substitute. He next referred to a very important communication from 
Mr. Alfred Smee, respecting the heating of horticultural structures. 
In this Mr. Smee stated that a double circulation of water could be 
established in one pipe, which could, therefore, be made at once a flow 
and return; that such circulation was rapid, provided the flow were 
carried in at the top of the circulation pipe, the return at the bottom, 
but not so as to cross each other; that he had tested this system in 
the case of a frame, and found it very successful ; and that on putting 
the question to Mr. Easton, the eminent engineer, whether such a 
thing had been done, the latter answered that it had by one of his 
pupils, and much to his (Mr. EHaston’s) surprise it had worked well. 
Mr. Berkeley again produced a Morel which had been sent to him, 
and said this fungus appeared to be more than usually common this 
season, and concluded by calling attention to the fact that this year the 
Vines at Melbourne had been attacked to a frightful extent by a disease 
closely resembling that which occurs on the Peaches and Nectarines 
in Kent, and which, like it, seems entirely due to climatic influences. 

Mr. Bateman having made a few remarks on the subject of the 
bazaar, and stated that Lord Londesborough had deyoted the flowers 
of his Orchids in aid of the fund for the French, the proceedings closed 
with the announcement that the next meeting would be held on May 5th. 


LIFTING BROCCOLI IN THE AUTUMN. 


Iv appears that there are various opinions about the efficacy 
of this operation, some asserting that they derive no benefit 
from it, and one writer affirming that it is positively injurious. 
My own experience is quite opposed to this. I grow upwards 
of 12,000 plants every winter, and I regret to say that there 
are not more than 2000 saved. Owing to our comparative 
immunity from frosts during the recent winters, I neglected 
lifting Broccoli, except on a small scale, and the results were 
such as to leave no doubt in my mind as to its efficacy. I had 
about one thousand plants of Backhouse’s Winter Broccoli ; 
one half I had transplanted, the other half were allowed to 
stand. Out of those which stood not one escaped, whilst of 
those that were laid-in only about ten per cent. succumbed. 
These I have been cutting for two months. This is a useful 
variety, and when it can be had true, is one of the best of 
winter Brocsolis. My other sorts were not laid in, and of these 
Dilcock’s Bride stood the best; Penzance and Ambler’s Harly 
went entirely ; Richmond Late White stood next best. Curled 
Kale and Brussels Sprouts were not in the least injured. 

The prevailing opinion is, that inclining the plants towards 


288 


the north is the means of saving them. No doubt, it is a good 
plan, especially for early kinds, but in my opinion transplant- 
ing alone is the chief cause of the operation saving the crop, 
otherwise why do the late kinds give way long before the heads 
appear? With me the largest and most luxuriant suffered most, 
the smallest and poorest suffered least; and the only con- 
clusion I can draw is, that the prevalence of juices in the 
former renders them more liable to injury; but lift them, and 
there is a timely arrest of succulence, and they become tough, 
and as it were ripened—it is well known that ripened wood 
always stands the frost best—therefore, they escape injury 3 but 
if inclined to any point of the compass besides the north, I 
believe the result would be the same. It is, however, another 
question when they begin to form heads, then the north must 
have the preference. I am so thoroughly convinced of the ad- 
vantage of lifting, that I shall always do so in future. Al- 
though it is generally but once or twice in a decade that there 
ig such an utter failure, we know not when it comes, and 
when we know the remedy we should be wise to be prepared 
for the worst.—A Yorxey. 


A LARGE CEDAR OF LEBANON. 


A FinE tree of this Cedar stands in the grounds of Barham 
Court, the residence of R. Leigh, Esq., a few miles from Maid- 


stone, situated on the banks of the Medway. There are also | 


some other noble specimens both of native and other trees. 
Although the tree referred to is only in its infaney, yet itis 
densely clothed irom bottom to top with foliage of the deepest 
green, and almost without 2 dead twig, there being none near 
the outside, and yet it will bear comparison with most of its 
kind that Ihave met with. The circumference of its trunk at 
the narrowest part between the root claws and the branches is 
23 feet. The bole is short, scarcely 6 feet high, and it is the 
smallest part of that which measures as above, and I may 
further observe that there are no projections nor inequalities 
that would give an increase to whet is fair measurement; on 
the contrary, the bole is as cireular and smooth as those of most 
Cedars. The tree appears to have lost its leader at the height 
of about 6 feet, and to have pushed out-a number of rival ones, 
several having the proportion of good-sized trees, and being of 
upright growth; others have been thrust outside, and occupy 
the position of branches, and some of these touch the ground. 
The height of the tree I did not ascertain, but it must be con- 
siderable, for the centre shot up like a blunt cone rather than 
the semi-hemispherical ontline which the tree often assumes. 
I imagine that a hundred years hence this tree will be a mag- 
nificent object, for it seems to be still growing fast. 


As an example of how rapidly the Cedar of Lebanon grows | 


in suitable situations, there was pointed out to me another 
specimen which one of the garden men had planted about 
forty-five years ago. This, in its ontline, resembled an elongated 
beehive, the top being rounded; a single upright bole was 
clothed with healthy branches to the very ground, so that it 
was not without difficulty that we could put a string round the 
trunk at about 3 feet from the giounds we found it was'there 
8 feet 10 inches in circumference. 
and thriving, it is likely at some future day to bea fine object. 
It will be well for those who contemplate planting for future 
effect to bear in mind that whatever may be the merits of 
more recent introductions, the Cedar of Lebanon, from the fact 
of its being to a certain extent established amongst us, ought 
fo be planted in greater numbers than any other tree of ia 
similar description. 

As a further illustration of the quick growth of this Cedar, 
I have been led to measure some of the trees planted in 1827 
in the grounds at Linton Park, and I find there are some even 
larger than the tree at Barham Court, forin a group of eight 
trees—all that were planted at the time just mentioned—the 
respective circumferences in the smoothest place at 3 feet from 
the ground are 9 feet 3 inches, 8 feet 11 inches, 8 feet S inches, 
8 feet, 7 feet 11 inches, 7 feet 6 inches, 7 feet 5 inches, and 
6 feet 6 inches. The spread of branches of the largest-stermmed 
tree is 69 feet.—J. Rozson. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


Payment By Postage Sramps.—We have corresponded with 
the Postmaster-General, and received a reply similar to the 
following which he sent to the Seed Trade Committee :—‘' To 
diminish as far as possible any inconvenience that may arise 
from the restricted use of postage stamps for the purpose of 


As the tree is very healthy - 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. - 


{ April 20, 1871. 


remitting small sums, the present system will be continued 
until the 30th June next; but, as so much evil has resulted 
from it, no postmaster will be permitted to purchase postage 
stamps from the public after that date.” 


Tue following Prizes For Co~tzctions or Economic 
Entomonoey, are offered by THE Royan Horricunrurnan So- 
CIETY :— 

1. A Prize of £10 for the best Collection of British Insects in- 
jurious to any one plant, as the Oak, Pine, Cabbage, Wheat, &c. The 
choice of the plant to be left to the competitor. The insects to be 
shown as much as possible in their various stages of development— 
eggs, larva, chrysalis, and perfect insect. In judging, a preference 
will be given to those collections which most successfully illustrate the 
life history of the insect, and exhibit the mischief done, whether 
shown by specimens, drawings, models, or other means. (Examples 
of the application of drawings, models, and specimens to this purpose 
may be seen in the Society’s Collection in the South Kensington 
Museum.) 

2. A Second Prize of £3 for the second best Collection. 

3. A Prize of £5 for the best Miscellaneous Collection of any branch 
of British Economic Entomology, similarly illustrated. 

4. A Second Prize of £2 for the second best Collection. 

The Collections are to be sent to James Richards, Esq., Assistant 
Secretary, Royal Horticultural Society, on or before the Ist of May, 
1872, each collection bearing a motto, and a separate sealed envelope, 
with the motto on the outside, and the name of the competitor inside. 
The Society is to be entitled to take from any of the Collections sent 
in, whether successful or not, whatever specimens or illustrations they 
may choose, at’a price to be fixed by the Judges. The Judges to have 
power to refrain from awarding the Prizes, should the Collections 
seem not worthy. 

Tue following are extracted from Nature :-— 

—— Tae Matyern Natvuratists’ Frecp Crus has issued in a neat 
volume its Transactions for 1853-70. It contains a large number of 
papers mainly illustrative of the natural history of the district, in- 
cluding catalogues of local birds, mollusca, lepidoptera, and fungi, 
with sketches of the geology of the Malvern Hills, and observations on 
the meteorology of Malvern. There is also an interesting sketch of 
the proceedings of the Society from its commencement in 1853 to the 
close of 1868, by the Rev. W. J. Symonds, F.G.S., President; anda 


| long paper on ‘‘ The Forest and Chace of Malvern: its Ancient and 


Present State; with Notices of the most remarkable old Trees remain- 
ing within its Confmes,” by Mr. Edwin Lees. This is illustrated by 
sereral well-executed engravings of some of the trees referred to. 

—— THERE is a plant in New Granada which, if our ink-makers 

could only grow in sufficient quantity in this country, would be a 
fortune to them. The plant in question, CoRrIsRri THYMIFOLIA, is 
commonly known as the Ink Punt, and it is simply the juice that is 
used without any preparation. Its properties seem, according to a 
tradition in the country, to have been discovered during the Spanish 
administration. A number of written documents destied for the 
mother country were embarked in a vessel, and transmitted round the 
Cape, the yoyage was unusually tempestuous, and the documents got 
wetted with salt water, those written with common ink became nearly 
illegible, whereas those written with “chanchi” (the name of the 
juice) remained unaltered. A decree was therefore issued that all 
government communications should in future be written with the ve- 
getable juice. The ink is of a reddish colour when freshly written, 
becoming perfectly bleck after a few hours, and it has the recommenda- 
tion of not corroding a steel pen so readily as ordinary ink. 
A xsEW WELLINGTONIA GiGAnTEA, or “big tree,’ 40 feet 
4 inches in diameter, has been discovered lately near Visalia, in 
Southern California. This is thicker by 7 feet than any other that 
has yet been found. A section of one of the ‘‘big trees” is now ex- 
hibited in Cincinnati, which is 76 feet in cireumference, and 14 feet 
high ; and, standing on the floor of the hall, it gives one a perfectly 
clear idea of the enormous size of the tree from which it was taken. 
The section was cut last year in the Mariposa grove, about two 
hundred and fifty miles south-east of San Francisco, and far up the 
western slope of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It was divided and 
hauled a hundred and forty miles to Stockton, on three waggons by 
seventeen yoke of cattle. 


«ALPINE PLANTS.” 


We have received Part viii. of Mr. Wooster’s ‘‘ Alpine Plants,” 
the previous numbers of which we noticed a few weeks ago. 
It contains three plates representing seven subjects, all of 
which are faithfully drawn. They consist of Crocus Boryanus, 
Dryas octopetala, Seutellaria alpina var. lupulina, Stenactis 
speciosa, Andromeda hypnoides, Polygala paucifolia, and Cheir- 
anthus alpinus. Well as the execution of the figures has been 
carried out, we cannot but suggest to the artist that some other 
mode of treating white flowers is desirable. In the figure of 
Dryas octopetala, for instance, the heavy shading gives an 
impure character to the naturally fine white of the flower, and 
suggests a heaviness and solidity which does not exist in 


Ee A re ae acc lara 


oe a ee 


Loney 


April 20, 1871. J JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


nature. Would it not be better to draw white flowers on paper 


tinted by lithography, the white spaces occupied by the flowers | 


being left white ? 


SOME PREDATORY INSECTS OF OUR 
GARDENS.—No. 7. 


Tr is an observation almost rabved threadbare to say that an 
object varies much according to the peculiarities of the eyes 
which contemplate it; and the only excuse which can be made 
for its repetition is, that palpable as is the truth of it to most, 
there are some persons slow to receive the explanation which 
it affords of certain seeming conivadictions. I was reminded 
of it now when considering the diverse effects produced in the 
minds of men by the appearance of the first butterflies of 
spring. The poet looks at them with rapture, and rushes, with 
@ new inspiration to his desk, to pour forth his thoughts in 
verse; the naturalist surveys them with interest, and with a 
degree of pleasure also; and the gardener, he—why, ho feels 
inclined to anathematise them as the detestable parents of a 
prospective brood of devourers, which will ere long make some 
of his Cabbages and Canuliflowers ‘small by degrees,” but 
not ‘beautifully less,” though as yet 2 moiety remains of 
those engaged in horticulture who have not learnt this relation 
between cause and effect, and who gazo at the white butterflies 
fluttering in the April sunshine, and do not connect them with 
the swarming caterpillars of a month later. 

The earliest butterflies we see in the spring are some of 
those belonging to the Vanessa family; indeed even in January 
or in February we may see a Peacock or a Tortoiseshell career- 
ing about in company with the more uniformly coloured Brim- 
stone, and locking rather unseasonable. The first species, 
however, which emerges from the chrysalis is usually the Small 
or Garden White (Pieris Rape), which may be reckoned with 
good reason amongst the harbingers of spring. That some 
individua's belonging io this species lived through the winter 
in the imago or butterfly condition, was the belief of the older 
entomologists, and it may possibly be sometimes the case, 
though I have seen no positive proof of it. The overwhelming 
maj rity of the specimens we seein April have, at any rate, 
not long emerged from the chrysalis, as is evident upon an 
examination of theic wings, which have a freshness not obsery- 
able in hybernated butterflies. This circamstance is advan- 
tageous, as affording an opportunity for their destruction ere 
they can wing their flight, since the chrysalida are not concealed 
—or at least only slightly so—as they are attached to some 
wall or paling, or, rarely, to the trunk of 9 tree. Seeking out 
and destroying these, iu the winter or early in spring, in those 
places where the caterpillars have been observed the preceding 
summer or autumn, might be regarded as tedions work, yet it 
would cerainly pay in its results in so far as cultivated plants 
of the Cabbage family were concerned. Probably each female 
butterfly deposits 150 eggs at least; then the destruction of 
each hundred in the chrysalis stage might be reckoned as equi- 
valent to the extermination of 7500 caterpillars, and though 
many out of such a number would be destroyed by various 
causes before they could do much damage, a good per-centage 
would attain maturity. Weare, it must be remarked, rather 
fortunate in these islands so far as onr butterflies are concerned. 
We have but a small number of spscies native with us—a fact 
which it has been attempted to explain by several theories, 
none. to my thinking at all satisfactory—and of these only two 
or three are at all injurious to cultivated plants. Certainly the 
species before us is markedly if not extensively so, the cater- 
pillars not only feeding on the plant which gives the name to the 
species, but attacking almost any of the Crucifere, and showing 
themselves also most years in our flower gardens to feed upon 
various annuals and biennials. In my own domain, I have 
noticed that Stocks and Mignonette are especially favoured by 
their presence. : 

The eggs of Pieris Ripe are sufficiently large to be noted by 
the unassisted eye, resembling those of P. Brassice, which 
have been often figured, only not quite so elongated. They 
are marked with ribs and also striated, being disposed on the 
leaves in patches of half-dozens or dozens. The first proceed- 
ing of the newly hatched caterpillars is generally the devouring 
of the empty ege-shells—an act.of apparent indiscretion, we 
might say, as if seems likely that so hard a substance would 
not suit very well the delicate digestive apparatus at that stage; 
however, the successful growth subsequently proves that the 


' change of skin. 


| progress, and even killing a considerable number. 


acti is by no means suicidal. The spring brood of larve appear 
within a fortnight after the eggs are Isid, the primary object 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 289 


of their attack being very often the varieties of Cauliflower and 
early Cabbage, they being at first hardly noticed from their 
small size and pale colour. Newman describes, with his usual 
accuracy, the appearance of these caterpillars until the second 
‘They are semi-transparent, the hairs con- 
spicuous, and each has a spherical head like a pin; indeed 
they much resemble so many minute pins stuck into the skin, 
or, still more exactly, those minute stalked glands which are 
commonly observed in the stalks of Ferns and other plants. 
There are a number of white warts on each segment.” The 
rate at which these caterpillars grow depends greatly upon the 
temperature, easterly winds and heavy rains retarding their 
With fayour- 
able weather they proceed very rapidly towards maturity, and 
they may be ready to become chrysalides in three weeks’ time. 
from emergence. Attaching themselves at 2 variety of angles’ 
to wooden surfaces not far from where they have fed up, these 
develope into a second brood of butterflies, which continue on 
the wing for a rather longer period than the flight we see now. 
The chrysalis, it may be noted, is of different shades, of white, 
light and dark brown, end occasionally green, and has been 
conjectured to be sdapted to the particular hue of the object to 
which it is fastened, so as to favour concealment; the suppo- 
sition is hardly sustained by experience, though we have other 
undoubted instances of insect disguises. No fixed date can be 
named for the appearance of the second brood of caterpillars, 
and in some seasons there seems to be a succession of broods, 
and caterpillars, chrysalides, and butterflies may be found, if 
nol in the same garden, at. least within a distance of a few 
miles. 

In some years Pieris Rape is comparatively scarce, it was 80 
in 1869, though in the preceding remarkably warm summer it 
abounded in most places; in fact, that year produced many 
curious phenomena both in plant and insect life. Thus, there 
were caterpillars of this species feeding at the west end of 
London up to the middle of June, which was later than usual 
for the first brood, the appearance of the butterflies having 
been retarded. by a cold April. Harly in July, near Gravesend, — 
both larve and chrysalides weve found, and the butterfly was 
also out. At Fulham, on the 220d of that month, there were 
hosts of larve crawling on the palings to enter the pupa state, 
Ow August 1st, in some places about the metropolis, the butter- 
flies flew almost in swarms, both in fields and along the road- 
sides, settling with eagerness in parties of six or eight at any 
spot where water had been spilt, and allowing the observer to 
come quite close. Three weeks afterwards they were nearly as 
numerous as at the commencement of the month, and another 
arrival of larvae were destroying the parched leaves which yet 
remained in our gardens, many of them exhibiting signs of the 
attacks of parasites. On the 10th of September some half- 
grown caterpillars were seen feeding. Many butterflies were 
flying throughout that month and October, individuals which, 
in the general way, would not have come forth until the spring, 
accounting for the scarcity which ensued in 1869; nor had the 
species recovered itself even in 1870. 

How is the species we are discussing to be kept under by the 
gardener? This admits of several answers. The hunting-out 
oi the chrysalis is a good plan, as already hinted. Capturing 
the butterflies by: means of a net has been tried, but this in- 
volves an expenditure of time withous producing an equivalent 
result, nor is it very probable that the eggs will be detected in 
any quantity just at the right moment. There are some cater- 
pillars which can readily be shaken off their food plants, but 
that of P. Rape holds on pretty firmly. When a greater force 
is applied, then they roll into a ving, soon, however, begia- 
ning to crawl again. Children mey be sometimes employed 
with advantage to pick them off, and the birds if let alone 
will render the gardener much service. Some caterpillars 
are destroyed by the same parasite which attacks the caterpil- 
lars of P. Brassice, a larger number still by the maggot of a 
dipteronsinsect. Rennie, in his interesting volume on ‘“‘ Insect 
Transformations,” states that in his researches in some fields 
at Islington (only fancy, there was actually a man living not 
loug since who had soen fields there !) he had observed that the 
caterpillars of P. Ranz selected in preference the wild brassi- 
caceous plants, neglecting the cultivated species. With all 
respect, however, I do not think that this solitary instance 
suffices to build a theory upon. There may haye been in this 
ease some means taken to prevent their attacking the Cabbages 
and Broccoli, otherwise I believe the mild flavour of the culti- 
vated species proves more to the taste of the caterpillars of 
P. Rape than the harshness cf the wild species. 


290 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ April 20, 1871. 


In April the horticulturist is looking for the appearance 
above the earth of his first sowing of Peas and Beans. So 
also are other living things, but with rather different views. 
A host of weevils infest these plants at every stage of their 
growth, and some believe them nearly as in- 
jurious as the hateful aphis. If the weather 
is dry, especially, we may expect to find some 
of the epecies of Sitona, such as lineata, the 
striped Pea weevil, and also crinata and 
canina, which nibble at the young leaves and 
stems when they first rise above the ground. 
The plants which have sprung up from the 
autumn and winter sowings are equally sub- 
jected to their attacks. As a writer upon 
the subject has observed, the gardener has 
a twofold object before him—to destroy the 
perfect beetle, and to protect the plants 
from it. Traps, such as small bundles of 
hay, have been laid between the rows, into which many of the 
beetles will creep at night, and they may be shaken or brushed 
off the plants when they have attained some size. From the 
small dimensions of these and other insect enemies, their 
capture and destruction is necessarily more difficult than is 
the case with larger speciezs.—J. R. S. C. 


Sitona lineata. 


GREENHOUSE PLANTS.—No. 2. 


A.GREENHOUSE is frequently constructed without proper pro- 
vision for climbing plants, so essential for shade in the summer ; 
and to prevent the roof presenting a bare appearance it is ne- 
cessary to cover a part of it with climbing plants combining 
elegance or gracefulness of growth with beauty of flowers. I 
shall therefore commence with climbing plants, and shall 
endeavour to give each plant its proper place. 

In all greenhouses I consider there should be borders for the 
plants which are required to cover the pillars, wall-trellises, 
and roofs, and these borders should be as carefully arranged 
and prepared as the best Vine borders, differing from these 
only in the requirements of each subject as to soil being con- 
sulted. Borders for climbers need not be so wide and so deep 
as those for Vines, and yet each plant must have sufficient 
space for its roots, z0 that it may be kept in good health for 
several years. In some greenhouses few plants would be re- 
quired if these were grown in borders instead of in pots; but I 
consider ihis a cogent reason for not continuing to grow in pots 
plants which, when so cultivated, we know can never attain 
their full development and beauty of foliage and flowers. Indeed, 


we cram and dwarf everything into so small a compass that the 
Chinese and Japanese can hardly beat us in this respect. It is 
of frequent cccurrence that two, 
three, or half a dozen climbing 
plants grown in pots occupy room 
on a stage, and yet cover no more 
space on the roof than one plant 
in a border, though the latter would 
attain the same perfection as the 
plant in its natural habitat—not 
that there are no climbers suitable 
for pot culture, and such for cover- 
ing small trellises are very useful, 
but for roof-covering I consider 
those so yrown all but useless. 
They do well whilst young, but 
when attaining their greatest beauty 
their branches are so closely en- 
twined to the wires that transfer- 
ring them to larger pots is diffi- 
cult without cutting them down 
and beginning the work over 
again. 

Greenhouses differ so much in -=7 © 
construction and form that it would 
be difficult {o show the border arrangements of {even those | 
which I have seen. I shall therefore sufficiently explain what 
I mean by one or two examples. x 

Fig. 1 is section of a greenhouse with a border, a, in front, | 
for climbers, 3 feet in depth and the same in width. There is_ 
a drain along the bottom and centre, and over it 9 inches ora | 
foot thick of drainage, leaving about 2 feet for compost. The | 
front wall is constructed with openings to allow of the roots 
going outside should there be Vines, the finest of all climb- 


BZTZa 
ELE 


ing plants. The border will need to be divided by cross walls, 
allotting to each plant the proper space for its roots, according 
to the extent of the house covered. Along the back there is 
also a border, b, for plants to cover the back wall, taking advan- 
tage of the space beneath the pathway, c, by having the wall, d, 
pigeon-holed to admit of the roots of ithe plants passing from 
b toc. This border will need to have cross walls like the front 
to confine the roots to their due limits. , 

This house being of considerable dimensions, to successfully 
cover the rocf space, the front 20 feet, exclusive of the wall 
and upright front, should be planted with the freest-growing 
climbers, and the back wall, 12 feet high, will sfford scope 
for free-growing plants; whilst for the back of the roof 
plants that grow vigorously will be suitable, as they must, in 
order to reach the roof, pass up the back wall. The house is 
27 feet wide, exclusive of the walls, and there is 4 walk all 
round, 

Fig. 2 is the ground plan of a curvilinear greenhouse with 
sides of considerable elevation, and there are borders 3 feet 
wide all round, and two beds in the central part. It is pre- 
sumed that the house is for Camellias, and thst the plants are 
planted out both in the side and central borders, and at the ends. 
Camellias being plants that require shade, no description of 
house that I know admits of a greater display of climbers, and 
these will not interfere with the successful treatment of Camel- 
lias. To whatever use the house may be devoted, if the plants 
are planted out it will be necessary to keep the rocts of the 
climbers from extending into the other part of the border by 
divisions. Slate and stone answer well, but tiles may be used, 
and take up lesz room than bricks. The divisions are shown 
by the small half-circles in the side borders, those next the 


| outside being for the plants to cover the roof, and those on the 


side next the walk for plants to cover trellis arches over the 
walk, a corresponding plant being on the opposite side of the 


7 
lil 


Fig. 1. 


path. Forfthis purpose space is taken from the two centre 
beds on tke side next the walk all round, and separated from 
the border by a 43-inch wall with a stone coping. The arches 
cross the walks, interfering in no wey with the plants, and thus 
economise space while increasing the beauty of the house. 
The four small circles are for climbers. If the sides are staged 
for pot plants, then straight cross walls, as shown by the dotted 
lines, answer for divisions. 

Enongh will have been said to show the arrangement of the 


April 29, 1871. ] 


borders for climbing plants, the essentials of which are to keep 
the roots of each separate, so that every plant can be supplied 


Fig. 2. 


with the requisites for its successful culture without interfering 
with its neighbours.—G. ABBEY. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Box and other edgings having been repaired, the gravel walks 
should either be turned over, :r a coat of fresh material added 
after loosening the old surface. Let the whole be levelled and 


JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


291 


well rolled, repeating this particularly after rain, till the walks 
become perfectly solid. In reforming them, round them 
slightly in the middle for rain to pass easily to the sides, but 
no more than this, except in very wet situations. The walks 
and edgings having been put in order, if the vegetable quarters 
have been manured for the season according to former d’- 
rections, the cropping and general management during the 
summer need not prevent any deviation from neatness ard 
good order. Run the hoe between the rows of all crops as soon 
as they are sufficiently advanced to enable the operator to dis- 
tinguish the rows. Earth up Beans and Peas as they advance, 
and stick the latter. A sowing of Kidney Beans may now be 
made ; selecting a piece of ary, light soil with a south aspect, 
draw the drills 2 feet apart, and drop the Beans 3 inches apart 
inthe row. A few may be sown in a box, to be placed in heat 
and transplanted when all danger from frost is gone. Thin 
Carrots, Spinach, and early Turnips; this should always be 
done in due time, and at twice; in the first instance leave 
double the number you intend to retain as a permanent crop, to 
meet accidents that young seedlings are liable to, and thin 
them to the proper distance when such danger is over. Sow 
| Scarlet Runners and Haricot Beans on well-prepared and dry 
| ground ; it will be as well to sow only half the quantity likely 
| to be required, and the remainder a week later, for should the 
| weather prove cold and wet they may not vegetate well in cold 
| situations. New Zealand Spinach may be sown in heat for 
| transplanting in May, and Vegetable Marrows and the Ice 
Plant, where the latter is required for garnishing. 


| FRUIT GARDEN. 

All trees on the walls should now be looked over and have 
their wood thinned while in the bud, taking off with the finger 
and thumb all foreright buds, and others that are not properly 
situated for laying in. Thin also the young canes of Rasp- 
berries to the number necessary for next year’s crop, by this 

| means the canes will be stronger, and will ripen better. 


| FLOWER GARDEN. i 
| The cultivation of annuals for garden decoration has, in 
some degree, given way to the more permanent class of bed- 
Jing-out greenhouse plants, yet some of the former will always 
find a place in the best-arranged gardens, and a pretty general 
selection should at the same time be grown for filling up 
vacancies in borders of herbaceous plants, bulbs, &c. In the 
margins of shrubberies, sown so as to occupy the space between 
the turf and the shrubs, annuals not only hide the bare soil, 
but also produce a gay appearance in summer at a trifling ex- 
pense. For this purpose the present will be a favourable time 
for sowing, the ground having previously been well dug and 
| prepared. The varieties are so numerous that itis scarcely re- 
| quisite to give names, I will, therefore, only observe that the 
| seed should be sown thinly, and as soon as the plants are 
| large enough they should be well thinned, to allow a free growth. 
| No idea of the beauty of annuals can be formed by the stunted 
patches we so generally see, owing to the common practice of 
sowing the seed in a patch, and allowing, perhaps, fifty or 
| nore plants to grow in a space where two or three only should 
have remained. Annuals intended for beds should be such 
! as continue a considerable time in flower; those of dwarf habit 
being placed near the walks, and the taller-growing ones at a 
greater distance. Among the former may be named Nemo- 
phila insignis, Clintonia pulchella, some of the dwarf Cam- 
panulas, Convolvulus minor, Brachycome iberidifolia, Por- 
| tulacas, Saponaria, Tagetes, Alyssum, Fedia, Zinnia, Tom 
| Thumb Nasturtiums, &c., besides many others, of which every 
seedsman’s list affords a selection. Stocks, as a matter of course, 
will always be grown, as well as Chrysanthemum-flowered 
Asters which have bright and distinct colours for beds, with 
the advantage of having erect flowers. Climbing annuals, as 
Tropwolum aduncum (Canary Creeper), Convolyulus major, 
Loasa, Cobsea scandens, Eccremocarpus, Maurandyas, Lophce 
spermums, &c., should be sown in pots, three or four seeds in 
each, and when strong enough should be planted to cover 
trellises, rusticwork, poles, walls, &c. Some of these require 
sowing early as formerly directed, in order to become sufficiently 
established, while the more hardy and strong-growing kinds 
will succeed now. Do not forget to make one or two sowings 
of Sweet Peas to keep up a succession of bloom. As the plant- 
ing-out season approaches take every opportunity of hardening 
off the entire stock, that the change to complete exposure may 
be gradual, and the after-growth progressive. Any plan's 
which are kept in pots, and which appear potbound, should 
either be turned out into a frame, or be watered with liquid 


292 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ April 20, 1671. 


manure, as once in a stunted state there will be difficulty in again 
inducing them to break freely. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Bring forward the stock of plants recommended for blooming 
in July and August, by shifting such ag require it, and allowing 
them more room. Kalosanths will require neatly tying out, as 
they form beautiful globular-shaped plants by a little manage- 
ment. Fuchsias will require a second shift, which should now 
be into their blooming-pots, using rich goil for the purpose. 
The same will suit Scarlet Geraniums growing for specimens. 
These three plants can be well managed together. Hrythrina 
Crista-galli is another free-flowering plant well adapted for the 
purpose, and the different varieties of Nerium, which are seldom 
seen, but beautiful plants. To grow these in perfection stout 
bushy plants should be selected, which, after being potted in 
peat and loam, should be piaced close to the glass.in a pit; let 
them have a good heat throughout the summer, and keep them 
moist at the roots while growing. About August they should 
be kept drier, and have the glass taken off every fine day or be 
placed at the foot of a south wall; by these means the shoots 
will become well ripened by the winter. Any dry airy house 
will suit them, and the following spring they may be forced into 
bloom with a little extra heat. Itfleft in a house with a mo- 
derate greenhouse temperature they will not bloom before July 
and August. Keep the conservatory as cool by day as is con- 
sistent with the health of the inmates, this will enable the 
plants to continue longer in bloom, and the house will be more 
enjoyable to parties inspecting them. Shading must be resorted 
to during this bright weather, and some pains must be taken to 
supply the waste of moisture by the dry external air. Any 
delicate plants full of roots which it is not desirable to shift 
at present, should have their pot inserted in one a size larger, 
filling the interval between the pots with moss or sawdust. 
This, if more generally practised, would save many a valuable 
plant; the action of dry air on so porous asubstance as a com- 
mon garden pot soon extracts the moisture from the mass of 
earth inside, and however carefully attended to many plants 
die from this cause alone in hot weather. 


STOVE. 

Orchids are now progressing fast, and will require attention 
in shading daily and gradually increasing the humidity of the 
house, so as to keep pace with the increase of solar light and 
heat. If the roof is covered with climbers a little management 
in training them to effect a judicious shading of the plants 
beneath will save much trouble with the canvas outside, as it 
will only be needed on very bright days, and add much to the 
appearance of the house. See that the plants on blocks or 
suspended in baskets are not allowed to become dry, which 
would have the effect of causing a check to the young growth, 
which should be encoureged as long as possible. Plants in 
bloom should be removed to a house with a drier temperature 
to prolong their period of flowering.—W. Kuanz. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 


Except in pricking-out Cabbages, Cauliflowers, Lettuces, &e.,° 


the work has merely been @ repetiticn of that detailed in the 
notices of former weeks. 

Our forced Asparagus is over, and once before the last frost, 
and now since the mild change and the rain of the 15th, we 
have had small gatherings out of doors. At this early period, 
when there is a likelihood of frost, we frequently place gmall 
pots (48-sized) over the shoots that peep through the soil, The 
hole in the reversed pot gives a considerable amount of light, 
and if the day is bright the sides of the pot act as 2 warming 
pan. When room and conveniences are limited, many of these 
little schemes must be resorted to. We have of late grown 
Asparagus in rows. We are half inclined in future to go back 
to the bed system, say beds from 3} to 4 feet in width, with 
from 2 to 23-feet alleys, or sunk pathways, between them; not 
because we think the Asparagus does better, or yields botter in 
beds thanin rows on a level piece of ground, but in these late 
dry summers, with a scarcity of water, we cannot help having 
vivid recollections of the splendid Oauliflowers we used to have 
in the trenches, when slightly shaded by the Asparagus on each 
side. It is not easy to secure all advantages. 

We may here make a few remarks for the inexperienced who 
contemplate having an Asparagus bed. 

1st, Do not be deterred by any represented difficulty, and the 
wonderful expease incurred by digging down masses of manure 


j 2or 3 feet beneath the surface, and the necessity of having 


many substances to mix besides. The Asparagus does not 
root so very deeply, and would be more benefited by decomposed 
manure a3 @ mulching, than by sinking that manure in the 
ground out of the plants’ reach. Any ground moderately rich, 
and without so much clay as to make it a very stiff loam— 
ground, in fact, that would produce good Cabbages and Pota- 
toes—ground where, owing to natural or artificial drainage, 
there is a freedom from stagnant moisture, will grow good 
Asparagus. Where the ground is very stiff it should be 
lightened by burnt clay, lime, sand, &¢.; and in such a case, 
though we would stir the soil rather deeply, we would plant 
shallow and use light mulching every year. 

2adly, The best of all times to plant is when the young 
plants are from 2 to 3 inches above the ground, and then, if to 
be had, two-year-old plants should be used, though we offen 
employ plants one year old. These plants will thrive much 
better than the roots planted before they begin to grow. 

Two conditions, however, are esseatial to success. The 
plants should be carefully taken up without breaking the roots, 
and, again, the fine fresh fibres of the roots should never be 
dried by exposure tosunand air. In planting, the roots should 
be kept in a box or basket, covered, and damped, and as the 
roots are spread out they should be damped with a fine rose 
before being covered with earth. When thus planted, a mulch- 
ing of manure after planting, a mulching on the surface every 
year, and just the slight whitening of the ground in spring with 
salt, will do more to secure good Asparagus than trenching a 
yard deep aud burying tons of manure at the bottom. It is 
seldom we have been able to do so, but we have had evidence 
enough to prove it, that the best way to manure Asparagus is 
to mulch it when it begins to grow freely, after gathering has 
ceased. A scattering of salt will then prove beneficial, and, 
provided the water passes freely, too much manure water not 
overstrong cannot be given. What we wish to impress on our 
many readers who may be intending to plant an Asparagus bed 
this season, is that good and numerous shoots of Asparagus in 
April and May, aad until Peas come in, are but little dependant 
on winter manuring, but chiefly on the help and manure afforded 
in summer. Such plants as those alluded to will yield mode- 
rate gatherings in two years. We have had fair Asparagus 
in three or four years from the seed, sown where it was to 
yemain. In the ease of a bed it should be sown thinly in rows 
a foot apart, the plants thinned a little the first year, and in 
the second to from 6 to 12 inches apart. Seed would be the 
easiest for many, but then they must wait longer. 

Red-leading Seeds, Trapping Mice, &c.—We are much inter- 
ested in what Mr. Abbey says as to the failure of red lead with 
him. As yet we have only had one instance here, and that 
was where Peas were sown under cover. Nowhere else has 
anything touched the seeds that were leaded. No doubt, as 
Mr. Abbey says, the cat is an invaluable friend to the gardener 
under such circumstances, but then with many of us, unless 
learned to run with collar and wire, it would be impossible to 
keep cats, as, no sooner does the kitten become large enough 
to be regular mouser, than the poor thing is missed and seen 
no more. There is something very singular, too, as respects 
trapping. Of all traps none with us equals the figure-4 trap 
with a good weight over it. One most destructive pest, the 
large grass mouse, we have often found to be above any sort of 
bait. This year it has been caught in great numbers with a 
bit of bread on the end of the stick, as well as the short-tailed 
and other mice. lately from twelve to fifteen in a night, 
including sparrows in the evenings and mornings, have been of 
common occurrence, and still they seem to come, but, with the 
one exception alluded to, not a pea or bean has yet been touched 
in the ground. We never caught these large grass mice with 
such a simple bait as bread before, and very likely our success 
will only be for a time. We used to let these traps remain 
unset during the day, but lately the mice seem to go to the bait 
freely in daylight. Sparrows are generally caught after five at 
night and bofore eight o'clock in the morning. Even from 
very different results and experiences we may derive some 
general advantage. 

FRUIT GARDEN. , 

We shall leaye the laurel twigs on the Apricots and Peaches 
alittle longer. The first have set very well, but a keen frost 
might easily injare them, as this year we have no coping, 
sheeting, nor netting. A broad removable coping is an excel- 
lent protection, and so is any sort of covering that will keep 
the blossom dry when the weather is wet and cold. Plums and 
Cherries out of doors are now (April 15th) in full bloom, and 


April 20, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


283 


such a warm rain as we have had will not injure them. Pears 
are not yet in bloom, though generally much more forward 
than Apples. Here it is worth remarking that the Apple will 
flourish in the smoke of London and other towns, where the 
Pear and the Cherry would fail. When gardening in London we 
used to be annoyed that nice bush Pear trees which bloomed well 
gave but paltry results in the way of fruit, whilst Apples fruited 
very fairly, and that we learned to attribute to their blooms 
opening later when the atmosphere was clearer and more free 
from soot and smoke. In dull foggy days the pollen boxes of 
the Pear became clogged with soot, and could not act. We 
have been told that there are still many fertile Apple trees in 
the most confined parts of London. 

Deficiency of Strawberry Bloom Buds out of doors.—We 
lately alluded to thoze in pote, and on the whole, notwithstand- 
ing the dry summer and shoriness of waiter, we have never had 
them showing better, there being very few misses. All those 
in pots had, however, received more or less protection from the 
severity of the frost in winter. We fear, however, that our 
out-door crop of Strawberries will not be an average one. Our 
stiffish loam just suits Strawberries, and the crops heretcfore 
haye been uniformly good, going off sometimes soorer than we 
liked,.as they did last year from wavt of moisture, Many of 
our plants, especially those turned out of pots after fruiting 
under glass and giving us some gatherings in the autumn, are 
now coming strong and looking very fairly, bu’ on closely 
examining them, there is a great deficiency of Hower trusses, 
which ought now to be seen peeping. Thuse turned out later 
are rather better. Plants which have been 2 second xear in 
the ground are likewise deficient in this respect. In ihe 
autumn we had more stocky plants in small 60-sized pots 
than we felt disposed to put in fruiting pots, and these we 
planted out in good soil at about 9 inches apart, intending to 
take them up with balls, and force them late if wanted, as a 
few lights in a frame or pit when thus filled are useful before 
the out-of-door plants bear. These young planis Bo treated 
generally show very strong bloom buds dor the sizo ot the 
plants. Many now look as if they would show well, but a 
goodly number are likely to produce nothing but leaves. Of 
similar-sized plants of different kinds potled, watered as well 
as we could in summer and autumn, and partly protected in 
winter, very few—escarcely two in a hundred—have failed in 
showing bold strong flower trusses, ihe most forward xipening 
weil, those in bloom showing fine strong iruitstalks, and those 
not started showing broad trusses. We are thus particular 
because we would wish those similarly circumsisnced to state 
the results of their experience, 2nd to exzamise the appear- 
ance of ‘their Strawberry plants. We hope we shall have a 
fair supply out of doors, bui already we can sce that it will not 
come up, so far.es bloom and fruit are concerned, to our usual 
free-blooming and our heavy crops. 

We had some forebodings last autumn that this'might be the 
cago, and it would be of little use mentioning all there details 
if we did not hope that our brother observers would help us 
to find a solution of the cause of the comparative shorlness of 
bloom buds. Now, first, such comparative scarcity of bloom 
buds, when contrasted with previous years, is not at ll owing 
to continuing a succession of barren plants, as wo believed to 
be unfortunately the cass with some of our readers last year, 
who had beautifol plants, but not. blcom,as the best and 
strongest of our plants were turned out of pots last scason 
after they had produced fruit. The few plants potied, and 
which do not show flower trusses, are at once sent to enrich the 
rubbish heap. These fine plants, which do not skow just as 
wo would like them to do, are, therefore, the plants thet fruited 
last year, and similar to those which, in all previous years, 
afterwards produced fine crops in the first season out of doors. 
Plants taken from those inclined to be barren of fruit and 
flowers aye not, therefore, the eause of the diminished number 
of flower trusses. 

Last autumn, when we had some foreboding that we mighi 
have a small crop of Strawberries out of doors this season, we 
based that foreboding on the dryness to which the plants had 
been subjected, and our inability to water them, which helred 
to starve instead of mature the incipient frvit buds. This 
idea, however, would have been more conclusive but for the 
simple fact that though ihe Strawberry plants in 1870 in the 
open ground did suffer from drought, they did not suffer nearly 
so much as in 1869, when whole quarters and beds seemed like 
so much dry tinder before the autumn rains came, and still 
from these mummies of 1869 there was a fair show of bloom, 
though not extra strong in 1870. 


This fact, taken in connection with that already alluded icy 
that young plants turned ont of small pots into the open 
ground Jast season do not show so uniformly and strongly for 
bloom as similar plants potted and receiving less or more pro- 
tection in winter, lead us to the conclusion that the dryness of 
the summer and the keen frost of the winter united, destroyed 
in many cases ‘the incipient fruit bud, though doing but little 
injury to the mere leafy part of the plant. We might mention 
some other corroborative circumstances; at present our opinion 
is, that if we should have a crop of Strawberries at ail short, 
it will be chiefly owing to the dryness of the summer and the 
coldness of the winter, and that more moisture in the one case, 
or more protection in the other, might have mitigated or ob- 
viated the evil. Even the snow, which protected for a time, 
made the plants, like the Cabbages and Broccoli, more sus- 
ceptible to the keen frost when fully exposed afterwards. 

For general details as to thinning the shoots of Peaches, 
thinning Grapes, proportioning vapour to heat in houses, and 
making the best use of sun heat when obtainable, cece previous 
numbers. ; 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

We proceeded ‘with groundwork, and rolling lawns and the 
sides of walks preparatory to edging them. Edging with an 
iron once a-year makes clipping afterwards more easy. About 
1 inch, or from that to 1} inch, is quite high enough above the 
wall for averge. Nothing looks worse than a deep edge, and 
all the more if the raw earth is at allseen. A walk conjuring 
up the ides of a ditch, or of » mere watercourse, is an abomina- 
tion. Walks much above the general level are equally an eye- 
sore. We can bring to our mind’s eye 2 broad walk in a 
public garden, so rounded and high in the centre, that everyone 
who traversed it might well keep saying to himself, ‘‘ High leg, 
low leg.” 

Proceeded with potiing, training, eutiing-making, and hard- 
ening off bedding plants, and putting out into earth pits and 
trenches lots of Calceolarias, Pelargoniume, Ageratums, &€., 50 . 
as to find zoom for Coleus, Inesines, &c., which require more 
heat to bring them on. Itis no easy maiter to find room for 
such numbers of plants now, when, from every place being 
filled, it could not be easily found out where they all could 
come from a few months hence. 

Pricked off Lobelias, and we chall try and give them a little 
heat to render them strong for planting ont. We also pricked 
off lots of seedlings of the Golden Pyrethrum, and set them in 
the orchard house, ere long to go out of doors. We havea lot 
of old plants that siood the winter which we mey be induced 
to tear to pieces.and pleut if we are forced to do so; but 
treat these old plants as you may, they will never have the 
neatness and compactness of small seedlings pricked off now.. 
Shallow wooden bexés are excellent for ali such purposes. If 
made rough and open they need no drainage, anda dash with 
a quic¢klime brush prevents ail fungus appearing.—&. F. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 


SEEDLING Crypraria (4. M.).—The colour, dark blue, is intense, the 
truss good, and the pips well-shaped. As you say the plant is of good 
habit, if is altogether a superior variety. 

PaRasiTE on Acacta (H. Balderray).—It is the common Dodder, Cus- 
cute europza, and was probably brought into your greenhouse with the 
soil. 


CAMELLIA SPoRT (P. L.).—It isnot unususl for red flowers to be pros 
duced occasionally on a white Camellia. They are all cross-breds, and, 
as in all cross-breds, will sometimes exhibit evidence of some distant 
ancestry. 


PLANTS FoR WinDOW Boxus (A. R).—There are many ways of doing 
this; some like tosow seed rather than purchase plants. Wegive a few 
simple arrangements of both. From seeds: 1, Mignonette all round at 
about an inch from the edge, and trained so as to ‘hang down the sides, 
Ten-week Stacks in the centre. 2. Sweet Alyssum for an edging all 
round, and Saponaria calebrica in the centre. 8, Calandrinia umbellata 
for the margin, and Leptosiphon androsaccus albus in the centre. Of 
plants: 1, Cerastium tomentosum all round, Lobelia speciosa at each 
corner and midway in the side lines of Cerastium, filling up the centre 
with Scarlet Geraniums. 2, Variegated Alyssum all round, the end and 
central plants of the internal line being ageratum Imperial Dwarf, filled 
in with Zonal Geranium Black Band. 3, Lobelia speciosa all round, the 
ends and central plants of the middle line being Centaurea ragusina, 
filled up with Golden Tricolor Geranium Mrs, Pollock. These willsuggest 
other modes of arrangement. 


GARDEN FoR Prorit (W. H. C.).—Your garden, 80 feet by 44 feet, con- 
taining as it does about 391 square yards, would not be more than one- 
twelfth part of the work for a man, and could only be made to employ a 
gardener by covering it with glass. It might pay if you were to construct 


a vinery on the ground, and besides Grapes have in the house bedding 


plants, which could be wintered without detriment to the Vines The 


‘Grapes would no doubt meet with a ready sale from August, and the 


plants in May. As to growing vegetables to sell wholesale, it would no 
doubt pay as far as it went, but would not employ a man more than an 


294. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ April 20, 1871. 


hour a-day or a month a-year. Were the garden 80 yards by 44 yards 
instead of feet, a gardener could well attend to it and a vinery 100 feet 
long by 20 feet wide. 


VioLEts (Viola).—No. 1 is of a very good size for its kind, and VioletS 
are smaller than usual this season. It is Queen of Violets No.2is very 
unlike The Czar; we think it is single Russian, but cannot say positively 
without leaves. 


Lity oF THE VALLEY NoT FLoweRiIna (A Constant Reader).—There 
must be something radically wrong in your treatment. It cannot be the 
fault of the roots, as each sends up a flower-stem, but does not grow more 
than aninch. We take up ours as you do, preserving a good root to each, 
and do not put in any but those which from their stoutness are likely to 
flower. The thin sharp-pointed crowns are rejected. We place them in 
pans about 4 inches deep, so as to have the point level with the surface, 
give good drainage, and use fibrous loam alone. If the soil is moist they 
are not watered, but, if not, they are gently watered ; they are then placed 
in a house with a temperature of from 50° to 55° at night. They are kept 
moist ; when they are growing freely they are well watered, and they are 
then placed in a light and airy position. When the lowest flowers on the 
spikes expand the pans are removed to a house with a temperature of 
from 45° to 5° at night, which hardens the plants and renders them 
better able to endure the cold and dry atmosphere of rooms. This is our 
practice after January; but before that time we place the crowns in a 
Mushroom house in the dark until the flower-spikes are about 4 inches 
long, and then remove them to a light position in a house with a tempe- 
rature of 55° at night. Before January it is well to place them for a fort- 
night or three weeks in a house with a temperature of between 40° and 45°, 
as when placed directly in a house at 55° they do not always grow. We 
have had them placed in a forcing house in November, and have found 
that they do not move at all—we have known them remain dormant until 
May. We had some this yearso treated; though placed in a temperature 
of 50° to 55° at night, they are now no further forward than when they 
were first put in, and we shall keep them where they are to see when 
they will start. If they were placed in a cooler house for about a fortnight 
they would start freely enough, but we want to know what is the cause of 
their not starting. Others like them flowered long ago. We require 
twelve 13-inch pans every week to meet the demand for this flower. 


Tuxips (Idem).—After they attain a full size, as they do in the course 
of the third or fourth season, they have reached the maximum of growth, 
and do not further increase in size, but they vary considerably in size under 
different conditions of soil and seasons. The age of a Tulip bulb is one 
year. It may be on record by a Dutch grower that one is three hundred 
years old, and 30it might be of Wheat or any other kind of seed that 
perishes with the new plant. The bulbs of Tulips do not become smaller 
every year, except under impoverishing treatment. 


| 


They keep good for | 


very many years, but not when subjected to forcing; then they dwindle, | 


SHrusps—Have THEY FuowerrD? (F. G.).—Eurya latifolia variegata 
has beautiful foliage. We are not aware that it has flowered in this 
country, but we do not think it worth cultivating for its flowers. Kadsura 


Viburnum Sieboldi we know nothing of, nor of Maximowiczia amurensis. 
Osmanthus illicifolius is a fine evergreenshrub. We do not know if it 
has flowered. Having chiefly been tried in sheltered positions their 
hardiness is not fully established. 


CaMELLIAS IN CoLD Pits (Idem),—They may be grown and flowered 
in cold pits and frames without heat, but the flowers are subject to spot 
and injury from frost. They should be protected in severe weather, and 
Kept in the dark until danger from scalding is past—that is, until the 
plants and soil are thoroughly thawed. The pots should be plunged to 
the rim. Magnolia grandiflora will flower in large pots or tubs, plenty of 


head and side space being afforded, but it succeeds so well out of doors 


that placing it in a house is occupying space that might be better devoted 
re more tender subjects. No variety of Arbutus is propagated by cut- 
ings. x 

CaMELLIA Currines (Wellington Road).—The Camellia is not difficult 
of propagation by cuttings, but the growth of the plants on their own 
roots is not very satisfactory, end the flowering is generally very in- 
different. The single varieties are mostly propagated by cuttings, and 
employed as stocks. The best time to put in the cuttings is when the 
wood of the current year becomes very nearly ripe, or at the end of June 
or beginning of July. The cuttings should be from 4 to 6 inches long; 
cut transversely just below the lowest bud, take off the lowest pair of 
leaves, and insert the cuttings up to the next pair of leaves in sandy 
loam, making firm. Place them in a cold pit or frame, keeping them close, 
just moist, and shaded from strong sun. In about three months they 
will be well rooted, and may be potted off singly in sandy loam, and be 
replaced in the frames, where they may remain throughout the winter 
with protection in seyere weather, or they may be housed before severe 
weather sets in. 

BovrrLe-BRUSH PLANT PROPAGATION (Idem).—There is more than one 
species of Beaufortia, so called, but that known {fo gardeners as B. 
splendens is the one to which the name is genera‘5” 4, jiied. They are in- 
creased by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots, and Sy0,"™* our plants are 
now in that condition. Take off the points of they xb a ely vigorous 

. shoots with their bases firm, and about 3 inches lo.c mantly trim off 
the leaves about halfway up, and insert the cutting to t= S¢ ab in sand, 
cover with a bell-glass, and set t in a house where the=’4, -noderate 
temperature—say 50° at night, and without bottom heat. neQhOvill strike 
in about six weeks, and should then be hardened off. Kee, them moist 
but not very wet, and shaded from bright sun. 


VENTILATION (R. T. O.).—The simplest mode of ventilating the lantern 
of the span-roofed house would be by rod and crank on each side—that 
is, if the house faces east and west. In a lean-to propagating pit the air 
should be given at the top and also at the sides. The quantity of air is as 
you manage it. For a small nouse like yours, we should be satisfied with 
an opening below the plate at the back wall, 15 inches long by 6 inches 
deep at every 4 feet, and in front 4-inch openings the size of a brick 
would be sufficient. In a Cucumber pit, now a mass of fruit, there is no 
more front air than a space 4} inches by 2} inches at every 4 feet, and 
that has never been given this season yet, as the wooden plug that fills 
the hole has merely been eased a little, so as just to let a little air 
in. There need be no infringement on a patent for opening all your 
ventilators less or more at once. There is no better cement for iron 
pipes than rough tow packing and redlead. We would use iron filings 


japonica has rather pretty white flowers in June, but is not remarkable. | Sno e romp n mori erstoRne nate VOUN WAIL 


| strong, nip out the point when 8 inches long, and thus you may have 


close to the boiler. A saddle boiler 20 inches by 20, and 17 inches in 
height, will suit you. 

PracH TREES IN Ports Faruine (Merlin).—It is not easy to tell why 
the Peach trees in pots that looked so well in autumn, and grow well in 
your orchard house now, have, with the exception of one, a Barrington 
Peach, shown no bloom, or why that one has cast its bloom without setving. 
Did you purchase these trees established in pots? If not, and you 
potted them late, that would be a minor cause of failure, as all fruiting 
plants in pots require to be well established in these before fruiting. 
Another cause might be the too great kindness you have given them. A 
lower temperature during the day, and perhaps less water after the buds 
began to swell, might have saved the fruit buds. Some time ago we saw 
plants in pots rendered barren from an opposite cause—namely, keeping 
the roots too dry in winter, and the finest buds dropped before they 
swelled much, whilst the wood buds grew very well. In another case the 
fruit buds shrivelled up from giving the trees too strong a dose of Gis- 
hurst. The one tree that opened its blossoms so well, and then dropped 
them all, might do so owing to late potting, too much or too little water, 
or too much sun. In such pots, when at all late potted, it is advisable to 
thin out freely all the weaker blooms for the first season. Afterwards 
they will generally take care of themselves. We once hada good crop of 
Cherries in May and June from piants brought in a mat package in March, 
but they were potted firmly in rather small pots for their roots, and then 
the pots were plunged over their rims in a mild hotbed out of doors, 
whilst the tops were shaded and syringed in sunny days, and kept cool 
by free exposure to air.. In three weeks there was no heat in the bed, 
but the roots had made fine fresh rootlets close to the sides of the pots, 
and then the plants were remoyed to the orchard house. Without thus 
insuring early rooting we should have expected these plants to drop most 
of their blooms. Without such care they ought to haye been potted in 
the previous spring or summer. Though we cannot clearly see the cause 
of failure, yet we do not think you can justly complain to the nursery- 
man, who, by your own description of the trees, seemed to have given 
you good samples, and all the more as the trees obtained at the same 
time, end planted against walls, have, notwithstanding the frost and 
easterly winds, retained many blossoms. Im such a case, soon after 
planting, we should not have been surprised at a portion of the bloom 
dropping ; but this simple fact of the trees doing so well out of doors 
would be a telling argument in favour of the tradesman, and also tend to 
show that there was some cause, very likely mistaken kindness, that con- 
tributed to the failure in-doors. 


FRUITING SHooTs oN PeacH TREES (Idem).—It is quite true that, on 
the common principle of fan training, it is the shoot made and ripened 
last year that yields blossom and fruit this season. This holds good even 
when the nipping-in or spur system, as in pot culture, is resorted to; it 
is the nipped-back part of this year’s shoots that will be a nest of buds 
next year. You haye shown the outline of your fan-trained tree; well, 
each of these shoots on your tree, if all of last season’s growth, will now 
be bristling with young shoots. Allow the shoot that comes nearest the 
If that should be over- 


three shoots to fill the wallinstead of one. Of all the other shoots coming 
on last year’s wood, first remove with a sharp knife the foreright shoots 
—that is, those on the front outside of the last year’s shoot, and leave 
just as many on the sides as you will find room for, but removing these 
extra shoots not all at once, but by degrees. A very simple plan of fan- 
training the Peach is to have the requisite number of leaders to fill the 
wall, then to have bearing shoots between, and in disbudding now, 
to leave only one good young shoot at the base of each bearing shoot, 
which will be the bearing shoot next year, when the one that has borne 
this season is cut away. We can confidently recommend Mr. Bréhaut’s 
little work to you, which you can have from our office post free for 8s. 8d. 


VinE TenpDRILS (Idem).—What you enclose are Vine tendrils, a pro- 
vision which enables a healthy Vine to become a climbing plant. They 
are not in any way the rudiments of the future bunch of Grapes. The 
rudiments of the bunch of Grapes will be found peeping near the front 


| of the young fruitful shoots by the time they are 2 or 8 inches long. We 


hope you have noticed them before now, as they can be seen before 
tendrils. When wood is not well ripened, or the roots are too deep, even 
the incipient bunches will sometimes run off into something like a 
tendril. Weare sorry that these little matters have escaped us, but of 
this you may be quite certain, that we shall duly attend to inquiries when 
we know what is wanted, and if we cannot give a decisive answer, we will 
acknowledge our inability to do so. From what is stated aboye you would 
see that the fruit of Peaches this year is borne on young wood made and 
mitured last year; on the other hand, the fruit of Vines is produced on 
the young shoots of this year’s growth, coming from the well-ripened 
buds or wood of last year’s growth. 

VINES BLEEDING (Idem).—That to which you allude and Thomson’s 
styptic are the best for arresting this flow of the sap. The great preven- 
tive is early pruning. There will be little or no bleeding without a fresh- 
cut outlet; Sometimes when the roots are kept warm there will be more 
disposition\to this flow of the sap. In such a case, where there is the 
least doubt, it is well to prune early, as soon as the leaves change, and 
then daub each cut with white-lead paint as thick as it will work with a 
small brush. Sometimes, when from late pruning the Vines showed 
signs of bleeding, we have deferred pruning until the shoots were 3 or 
4 inches long. We have always entertained the idea that such bleeding 
weakened the Vine and wasted its resources. Such an opinion, however, 


is hardly corroborated by experiment, for when Vines in pots were left 
on purpose we saw but little difference in the results in the case of Vines 
that bled considerably and those that, from pruning early, showed no 
signs of such ble>ling. However, it is best to avoid it, and early prun- 
ing and daubing thé>cut ends with thick paint are about the simplest 
preventives if you cannot obtain the styptic. 

the et 


As soon as the shoots take 
ning there will be no chance of bleeding. 


ERS IN GREENHOUSE (Idem).—You could not have a better place 
ber-growing than the greenhouse alluded to, when the bedding 
plants a1 xemoved in May. The large boxes or pots will do admirably, 
but in plan.ing we would not fill the boxes more than three-fourths full. 
That will always be sinking; but our object would be to add an inch or 
two of rich compost to the surface every two or three weeks—in fact, as 
the fine white roots spread over the surface, just add alittle more. The 
Cucumbers should be trained to a wire or string trellis, not less than 
16 inches from the front glass, and as far from the glass of the roof. To 


—— 


=e 


Beez 


April 20, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


295 


obtain good Cucumbers it is not necessary to resort to any mode of im- 
pregnation. To make sure of seed it is desirable to resort to it; and all 
that is necessary is to take a male flower that has dusty pollen on its 
anther boxes, remove the petals of the flower, and put the pollen boxes 
in the centre of the female flower when fully expanded. To make sure 
you must do it more than once if not experienced, so as to see that anther 
and pistil are ripe. This is not at all required for getting fine shapely 
Cucumbers. If youand your friends use this Cucumber house for smoking 
in during the summer evenings, it will be advisable to have the foliage 
dry before there is much smoking. 


Vine LEAves Fuaccine (T. Barrett)—We can assign no reason for 
your Vines flagging and the leaves dying, unless they have been frosted 
during the late severe weather, or rats or mice have nibbled the roots and 
stem. One of our best Vines never broke this season. We have no doubt 
that the stem and roots have been nibbled through. This is, however, 
less likely to be the case with your Vines planted inside. 


Bowoop Muscat Grapes IMPERFECTLY DEVELOPED (7. H. D.).— We 
think it is owing to immature wood, the result of a deficiency of heat, or 
an inadequate supply of water. Severe attacks of red spider will also 
occasion a defective formation of the buds. We advise you this season 
to give the Vines abundant waterings, plenty of heat, and an abundance 
of air to thoroughly ripen the wood, and this secured, we think the 
bunches will develope perfectly another season. We do not think Black 
Hamburgh a suitable stock for either the Bowood Muscat or Muscat of 
Alexandria. It suits the Black Muscat of Alexandria, which, as com- 
pared to the former two, is a moderate grower. With us the White 
Muscats just named are very vigorous on their own roots, and.succeed 
well in a moderately-heated house. The Madresfield Court Muscat is a 
splendid Grape, finer in bunch than Mrs. Pince, but we are not prepared 
to say that it is preferable to that variety. Both ought to be in every 
heated vinery.—G. A. 

INARCHING VINES (J. D.).—Royal Ascot would do well on Black Ham- 
burgh, and the same stock would suit the Golden Champion. For Madres- 
field Court Muscat, the Syrian and Gros Guillaume, or Barbarossa, would 
answer well. You may inarch them at any time after growth commences, 
or when there are leaves to elaborate the sap, and so prevent bleeding, 
and we should perform the operation as soon as the wood of the scion 
becomes sufficiently long and firm to bear cutting without danger of 
breaking. The younger the wood the greater will be the success, and the 
more speedy the union. On old wood the scion does not take kindly. 


IRIS RETICULATA NoT FLOWERING (G. S.).—We think the cause of the 
non-flowering this year is due to the exhaustion of the plant by the pre- 
vious year’s flowering and the dryness during summer. It would be 
much the best plan to plunge the pots out of doors in summer, and re- 
move them to a cool house before severe weather sets in. 


NEAPOLITAN VIOLETS TO BLoom IN NovemBER (W. H.).—Divide the old | 


plants, and plant the well-rooted runners early in May on an east border, 


in good rich soil, well dug, and liberally dressed with leaf soil or well- | 
Plant in lines a foot apart, and 9 inches from plant to | 


decayed manure. 
plant in the row, shading for afew days if the weather is bright, and 
watering freely if necessary. Keep the soil stirred, not going so deep as to 
disturb the roots, and give copious supplies of water in dry weather, and 
as many sprinklings overhead as you can with soot water, mixing one 
peck of soot in thirty gallons of water. In September take them up with 
good balls, plant them in a frame or pit in a warm situation, and enjoy- 
ing the full sun, and shade for a few days. Keep down the lights in fine, 
mild weather, drawing them on only in severe periods and in very wet 
weather, but at such times, though shielding the plants from excessive 
rains, admit abundance of air. The Neapolitan is not a good Violet for 
early winter blooming, but is fine for spring; and is the sweetest of all. 
The Czar and the single and double Russian are the best for winter. 


ComMMON BRAKE FERN PLANTING UNDER TREES (C. L.).—We know of 
no plan so good as remoying the top 6 inches of the spot where they grow 
plentifully but not very strongly, and in that you will secure enough 
roots for a good growth. If taken from where they grow strongly, the 
rhizomes cannot be removed without going a considerable depth, and, as 
a rule, they do not grow well. 


BorDER FOR GREENHOUSE CLIMBERS (J. D.).—The border should be 
the width of the front stage—i.e., 8 feet, and continued the length of the 
house, It should be brought level with the floor line, or not more than 
3 to6 inches above. The climbers are best planted out, and the border 
should be wholly inside the house. The border is intended to be under 
the front shelf, and the width of the shelf, whatever that may be. Out- 
side borders are of no use, except for those kinds which are required to 
cover a large space ; besides, they are only suited for the hardier subjects, 
as Fuchsias, Wistarias, and Clematises. 


PELARGONIUM LEAF SpotTeD (C. B. M.).—The leaf is spotted in con- 
sequence of the imperfect elaboration of the sap, arising, we think, from 
more being taken up than can be elaborated by the leaves. The soil is 
too rich, though if you were to give the plants a little more heat, light, 
and an abundance of air, it is likely they would become healthy and 
flower well. The soil and atmosphere we think too dry. 


Pras MILDEWeD (4. Z. F. C.).—All our Peas sown after the middle of 
May are sown in trenches prepared as for Celery, with this difference, 
that they have the soil returned level. We take out a trench 18 inches 
or 2 feet wide, and a good spade deep, and put in about 4inches of manure, 
dig it in, then fill up with soil, give another coat of manure, and dig it in. 
We then sow the Peas in a wide drill, more like one made for Potatoes 
than in ordinary practice with Peas. When the Peas show flower, if the 
weather is dry, we give a good soaking with water, mulch the ground 
on both sides of the rows to the distance of 18 inches or 2 feet, and re- 
peat the waterings twice a-week, giving a good soaking. A slight earth- 
ing-up does good. To have good late Peas it is necessary to water freely, 
and mulch so as to lessen evaporation. Dry.ess at the root is the prin- 
cipal cause of mildew in Peas. Give them plenty of moisture, and treat 
them liberally with manure, either liquid or solid, and it will disappear. 

_FERNERY ConsTRUCTION (Flora).—The principal object to be kept in 
view is nature ; but do as you may, noimitation doorways can be made to 
appear otherwise than as works of art, and rustic art may advantageously 
be employed in buildings of this character; yet it seems strange to have 
a doorway of bark or wood put together in rustic style, and have the 
roof of smooth timber showing mechanical skill. It is not the exterior 
of such places that we have to consider so much as the interior, and we 
consider it should form one scene. If it be rock, rock should everywhere 


prevail, and that rock should be of one description. We give all credit 
for the endeavour to bring together as great a diversity of materials and 
characteristics ag possible in a small space, but that very diversity is 
fatal to the natural effect, for there is no geological connection between 
the materials employed ; and it is not an imitation of nature, for there is 
no such thing as a confusion or mixture of many substances in the same 
spot. We therefore would not employ a great variety of materials for the 
construction of a rockery for Ferns. The very best imitations of natural 
rocks are, however well executed, very ill adapted to the growth of the 
plants, which is in our estimation the sole object of the structure. The 
best material for a rockery for Ferns is free grit or sandstones, we prefer 
the former; and no other material would we employ but limestone, some 
of the petrified forms of which are very suitable. The free grit or sand- 
stone admits of two forms of arrangement—the massive and boulder. In 
extensive arrangements the former is the better, though it may be practised 
on asmall scale, but small rockeries are more consistent on the boulder 
principle. Either of the arrangements will answer for limestone, but if 
the stone has been rent it must be put together as a mass, and not on the 
boulder system, which is that of large or small stones which have for ages 
been rent from the parent rock. In your case we would haye the massive 
as wellas the boulder system. The steep parts we would haye in the 
massive style, and the lower parts formed of boulders so disposed as if 
they had fallen from a height, or fallen from the massive part near. Of 
course you will so construct the rockwork that a number of openings will 
be left for plants, such as ledges, clefts, crevices, and hollows, the boul- 
ders of course forming their own openings, likewise have sloping parts 
for soil for plants. In no case need every part of the wall be covered 
with rock, though some are at great pains to hide them. It will be enough 
if they are of stone of a kind that will moss, and we would employ stones 
from a building, if we could obtain them, rather than stone newly quarried. 
The upright wall showing in parts, with projecting rocks here and there, 
and fallen boulders in other parts, will give a great diversity. In con- 
structing the walls we would not remove or strike off the mortar, but 
leave it as it is pressed out at the joints. This upright part will in time 
be covered with seedling Ferns and Moss, and will have an excellent 
effect, or it may be covered with Ficus repens. We would, however, 
syringe it well, and when wet dash against it finely sifted peat, which 
will cling to the wall, and rest on the lime projecting from the joints sufli- 
ciently for the speedy growth of moss and the spores of Ferns. The 
entrance should be concealed as much as possible. We usually have an 
archway, the stones laid so as to appear as if they had fallen from the 
two sides, and, becoming wedged, had naturally formed the arch. You 
may introduce water with good effect, as a dropping well or a spring from 
a fissure in the rock, forming a small stream, then a pool, and disap- 
pearing in a hole or fissure. It may also be brought over rock, appearing 
asa stream coming from high ground intercepted by falling over the 
perpendicular or declining rock, and forming a rill over the rock; or it 
may bea cascade if there is sufficient water and the rocks so disposed. 
The door is a matter of taste; let it be seen as little as possible from any 
part of the interior. We hope shortly to give more fully our views of a 
fernery. 

EVUCHARIS AMAZONICA WHICH FLOWER Four Timis A-yEAr.—The plants 
aze potted in loam and a littie sand, placed in a house where they have 
bottom heat all the year round, and are never allowed to become ary. 
They were potted eight years ago, and nothing has been done to them 
since, except top-dressing them with sandy loam, and occasionally 


| watering with liqfid manure.—J. Savers, Gardener to Thomas Bewley, 


Esq., Rockville, Blackrock. 

Meaty BuG oN STEPHANOTIS FLORIBUNDA (A. I’. G.).—The white insect 
on the truss of flowers is mealy bug. Itis very difficult to destroy it when 
it has taken a hold. We have freed our stove from it by syringing the 
plants forcibly and repeatedly with water ata temperature of 140°, adding 
to every gallon twenty drops of spirits of turpentine. Fumigation with 
tobacco will not destroy the insect, though it may retard its progress. 
We cannot say how it would answer in your case, as the plant being on 
the roof it is probable that the hot water dripping on the plants beneath 
would injure the young growth if they are of kinds likely to hold water 
in their centres, as Dracenas. We have not experienced any injury from 
its application, and any tender plants it is easy to remove. It is useless 
trying to kill this insect by gentle sprinklings; the water must be applied 
with force to wash off the insects. When the plants are cleared from tha 
mealy bug we give a good syringing with a solution of 3 ozs. of soft soap 
to the gallon of water, with twenty drops of spirits of turpentine, apply- 
ing this at a temperature of 140°. We find, however careful we may be 
in excluding all plants infested with it from our houses, occasionally it 
finds its way into our collection on bought plants, and from quarters 
whence we should not expect it. We would not have a plant infested 
with mealy bug at a gift. In stoves and vineries nothing does so much 
good as forcible syringings, as above indicated. 

Funecus oN Junreer Bark (W. H. M.).—The orange-coloured jelly-like 
fungus is the Podisoma Juniperi-communis, and very common on the 
Juniper, 

Nore oF APPLE (G. C., Croydon).—Marmalade Pippin: 

Names or Puants (Mary).—Saxifraga crassifolia. (Lady King).—Iris 
tuberosa, native of the south of Europe and the East. (J. B.).—Cory- 
dalis solida. (A. ¥F.).—The Holly Fern, Polystichum Lonchitis. (A.B. C.). 
—A double Anemone, A. pavonina fi.-pl. It is well known in nurseries. 
(A. C,).—Scilla sibirica. (A Young Gardener).—Amelanchier Botryapium. 
(W. Dawber).—Anemone payonina fl.-pl. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


THE STROUD POULTRY SHOW. 


Witt you allow me, through your columns, to make an 
appeal, which I trust will be endorsed by all the influence of 
Tur JourNAL or Horticunrure, to the managers of the Stroud 
Poultry Show, to alter the date of their next meeting, so as not 
to clash in point of time with the great gathering of the Bath, 
West of England, and Southern Counties Association at Guild- 
ford? The latter Society, with its great name and reputation, 
with various and comprehensive exhibitions, including the fine 


296 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ April 20, 1871. 


arts, horses, live stock of all kinds, everything connected with 
agriculture, and a specially good collection of poultry; more- 
over with ramifications extending throughout the south of 
England, with an enormous capital raised to meet its expenses, 
and with a great influx of visitors attracted, even from long 
distances, is a most formidable rival. Now, it is clear enough 
that prize poultry, like everything else, cannot “be in two 
places at once,” and the Stroud Show, which at any other time 
would be a great success, will doubtless suffer greatly in point 
of attractiveness through the absence of mary of the best pens 
of poultry in England. 

Considering the scanty number of southern shows compared 
with those of the north, it is doubly unfortunate that two ex- 
hibitions, both offering liberal prizes, should clash with each 
other in point of time. But it is not too late to convey through 
you to the Stroud authorities the feeling of many exhibitors, 
and to appeal to them, for the sake of the success of their 
show, as well as for the convenience of exhibitors, to alter the 
date of it An Oxp Exurerror. 


ROYAL DUBLIN SOCIETY'S POULTRY AND 
PIGEON SHOW. 


THE annual spring Show of this Society was held on the 11th inst. 
and following three days in the gallery of the large hall of the Associ- 
ation in Kildare Street, Dublin. There were nearly four hundred 
oat and in some of the classes the quality of the birds was very 

Ee 

Of the Silver-Grey Dorkings, most of the best birds had gouty feet, 
but in point of feather and colour they were perfect. The Dark Greys 
were much better in feet, and some of the birds were good in colour. 
There were some good Spanish fowls, but many of these were not well 
shown, and required much ‘better attention as to cleanliness in face 
and drops. The Dark Brahmas were a good class, most of the birds 
deserving notice ; but those of the Light variety were very poor, being 
quite yellow and short of marking. Tho first-prize Buff Cochins were 
afine pair of birds, and in excellent order; the second-prize birds 
extremely large, but in poor condition. Several other pens were well 
worthy of position. The Whites and Blacks were moderate, and most 
of the Partridge-coloured good in shape, but wanting in marking, 
although the first-prize cockerel was perfect in colour and marking. 
Of Game, several pens were left out on account of the trimming, 
which was something extraordinary, and carried out in the most un- 
blushing manner. [We wish our reporter had stated the names.—Epbs. ] 
There were but two classes for Hamburghs, and, excepting the prize 
birds, they were poor. Of the Pencilled Hamburghs, both the winning 
birds were Silvers, the first taking that position only through condi- 
tion, the second being more perfect, especially the cockerel, but very 
dirty. The Black Polands were very fine, as also were the Gold and 
Silvers. For La Fiéche, both the prizes were won with good birds. 
The Houdans, with the exception of the first-prize birds, were very 
faulty in comb, and this remark applies also to the single-cock class 
of that variety. All the remaining classes: of single cocks were well 
filled, and all contained excellent birds, particularly the Cochins and 
Brahmas. Inthe Variety class were Scotch Greys, Malays, and Breda 
fowls, but the latter were but of ordinary quality. Game Bantams 
wore of moderate quality, but the Black in the Variety class were very 
good. 

Among the Pigeons we were particularly struck with the first-prize 
Blue Pouters. These wore exceedingly fine in shapeand colour. The 
cock bird was 20 inches in feather, and 91 inches in limb. The Al- 
mond Tumblers, also shown by Mr. Zurhorst, were very good in skull, 
and well broken in feather. The Fantails were but moderate, but the 
Jacobins most exquisite, the first-prize Blacks being very small and 
neat in hood and chain. The Owls were poor, but the winning Barbs 
very good in skull end eye.. In the Variety class a fino pair of Silver 
Runts were first. 

Turkeys had two classes, and both were well represented, Mr. 
Cooper showing the heaviest birds, but as far as regards colour and 
condition, he was beaten entirely by Mr. Mowbray. There was one 
bird of the Crested variety. Some very large-framed (Geese were 
shown. Tho Ronen Ducks, though good, showed the effects of the 
breeding season in defective bills, although the winners were right in 
that respect. The Aylesburys were a good lot. The first prize was 
awarded to a splendid pair of young birds, closely pressed by Mr. 
Cooper's pen, but his birds were not in good order. 

Dorxwes.—Silver-Grey.—1, R. P. Williams,-Clontarf. 2, G. N. Purdon, 
Killucan. 3, Mrs. Warburton, Naas. he, W. G. Mulligan, Belfast. c, Capt. 


Downman, Kingstown; S. Mowbray, Mountrath. Any other Colowr.—tl, G. A. 
Perrin, Loughlinstown. 2,G.A. Stephens, Dublin. 38, S. Mowbray. he, Mrs. 
Warburton. 

SpanisH.—l, G. A. Perrin, Co. Dublin. 2,G.A.Stephens. 3, W. G. Mulligan, 
Belfast. hc, §. ox, Ballsbridge ; Miss de Courey Drevar, Blackrock; J. Barlow. 

BrawMa Poorra.—Dark.—1, R. W. Boyle. 2, F. 'H. Green, Windsor, Belfast. 
he, Mrs. Warburton; G. A. Stephens. “Light.—l, Dr. J. F. Duncan, Finglas. 
2, Capt. Downman. 

Cocn1n-Caina.—Buf or Cinnamon.—i. G. A. Perrin. 2, F. H. Green. he, W. 
H. Perrin; G.A. Perrin. White or Black.—1, R. P. Williams, Clontarf. 2 and 
he, Mrs. Taaffe. c, G. A. Perrin. Brown or Partridge.—l, G. A. Stephens. 
2and he, Mrs. Taaffe. Black or Brown Red.—i, G. A. Perrin. 2. T. Hafield, Bray. 


Game (Any other variety).—1, T. Hafield. 2 and he, G. A. Perrin. | 
Hampurcus.—Pencilled.—i, G. A.Perrin, 2, Hon. J. Massy, Limerick. he,L. 


Stoney, M.D., Dublin; Hon. J. Massy; Miss Hennis. Spangled.—1, ‘S. Mow- 
bray. 2,G.A.Perrin. he, F. H. Greene. 

WHITE-CRESTED Buack Fown, oR BLACK-cRESTED Wuirr Fown.—1 and 
2, Miss de Courey Drevar. fc, R. P. Williams. c, J. K. Millner, Blackrock. 

Pouanbs (Gold or Silver).—1, G.A. Perrin. 2,R.P. Williams. c, Capt. Down- 
man. 

La Frecus.—l and 2, G. A. Stephens. he, Capt. Downman. 

Hovpan.—l, G. A. Stephens. 2, J. CG. Cooper, Limerick. 

CREVE-C@vuR—1, Hon, J. Massy. 2, Lieut.-Col. C. R. Chichester. 

TurgEYs.—1 and 8, J.C. Cooper. 2, S. Mowbray. atta 

GrESE.—l, J.C. Cooper. 2and3, Mrs. Warburton. he, R. P. Williams; Mrs. 
Warburton. 

Ducxs.—Rouen.—1, W. G. Mulligan. 2, J.C. Cooper. hc,S. Mowbray; W. G. 
Mulligan 3,G. H. Stephens; Miss Simmonds, Loughlinstown; R. P. Williams ; 
G.A. Perrin. Aylesbury.—l, 8. Mowbray. 2, J.C. Cooper. he, Hon, J. Massy ; 
W.G. Mulligan; R. P. Williams; Mrs. Warburton. ty 

ORNAMENTAL WATERFOWL.—1 and 2, R. P. Williams. he, Lient.-Col. C. R. 

2, Mrs. Taaffe (Lemon Cochin-China). 


Chichester. 
SELLING Cuass.—1, J. K. Millner. 

8, Mrs. Marmion, Ashtown, Dublin (Spanish). hc, W. G. Mulligan (Dark 

Brahma Pootra); Mrs. Warburton (Silver-Grey Dorkings and Dark Brahma 

Pootra); Capt. Downman (Buff Cochin-China); G. A. Stephens; S. Mowbray 

(Dorking); J. Hyland. c, J. K. Millner; E. E. Seale; Lieut.-Col. Chichester ; 


Dr. Duncan. 
SINGLE COCKS. 

DorkinG.—1, F. H. Green, 2, G. N. Purdon. hc, Mrs. Warburton; RB. P. 
Williams; S. Mowbray; Mrs. Clay ; G. A. Stephens; Hon. Mrs. Greene. - 

SpanisH.—1, R. P. Williams. 2, Hon. Mrs. Greene, Bray. hc, W. G. Mulligan ; 
G. A. Stephens; Dr. J. F. Duncan. c, H. L, K. Harman, Ballymahon. 

Cocuin-CniNna.—l, G. A. Perrin. 2, Mrs, Clay, Killiney Road. he, Dr. Dun- 
ean. c, Mrs. Taaffe; G. A.“Perrin. 

BrauMs Peorra.—l, Mrs. Warburton. 2,R. W.Boyie. he, Mrs. Warburton ; 
G.A.Stephens. c, B.A. Seale, Kilgobbin ; Dr. Duncan; R. W. Boyle. 

La FLecuE.—1 and 2, G. a. Stephens. 
eet Stel G. A. Stephens. 2, Mrs. Clay. he,Hon. J. Massy; J. C. Cooper; 
Mrs. Clay. 

Creve-Ceva.—l, J. Carleton, Shankhill. 2, Hon, J. Massy. 

Game.—l and 2,G.A. Perrin. he, F. H. Greene. 

Gamz Banrams (Any variety).—1, Master Downman, Kingstown. 2, G. A. 
Perrin. hc, Mrs. Taaffe; G. A. Perrin; N. BE. Wallace. Xm 

Bantams (Any other variety).—1, G. A. Stephens. 2, T. Reynolds, Co. Dublin, 
he, T. A. Bond, Londonderry; F. Perrin. 

ANY OTHER VaRtety.—l, 8. Mowbray. 2, E. A. Seale. he, Mrs. Taaffe; J.C. 
Cooper; J. C. Dodwell; R. Dane. c, EB. A. Seale. t & 

TuRgEYS.—1, 8S. Mowbray. 2,J. C. Cooper, Limerick. he, Lieut.-Col. C, R. 
Chichester; Miss L. King. 

PIGEONS. 


Carrrers.—l, R. W. Smith. 2,3. M‘Donnell. he, E. A. Seale. 

Pourrrs.—l, F. W. Zurhorst. 2, J.K.Millner. he, E.A. Seale; J. MDonnell. 

TuMBLERS (Any variety).—l, F. W. Zurhorst. 2 and c, E. A. Seale. he, J. 
M‘Donnell, Dublin; J. K. Millner. z 

Fantaris.—l, 2, and c, E. A. Seale. he, J. K. Millner; J. M‘Donnell. 

JAcoBINS.—1 and 2, E, A. Seale. he, J. Dowling, Cork; J. M‘Doniell. 

Owxs.—l and 2, J. M‘Donnell. hic, J. Dowling. i 

Bargs.—l and 2,J. Dowling. he, R. W. Smith, Cahir; E. A. Seale. 

Turpits.—l, BH. A. Seale. 2,J. Dowling. he, F. W. Zurhorst; E. A. Seale; 
J. Dowling. r 4 

ANY OTHER VaRieTY.—l, F. W. Zurhorst. 2,J.K.Millner. he, J.M‘Doennell; 
J. K. Millner. 


The Judges were—Mr. E. Hutton, Pudsey, Yorkshire; Mr. G. 
Meney, Blessington ; and Mr. C. C. Hamilton, Tralee. 


THE POISON OF THE HONEY BEE AS A 
MEDICINE.-—No. 1. . 


In the first edition of my work on the “ Hive and Honey 
Bee,” published in 1853, I said :— 


“An intelligent Mandingg African informed a lady of my acquaint- 
ance, that they do not in his country dare to eat unsealed honey until 
it is first boiled. In some of the Southern States all unsealed honey 
is generally rejected. It appears to me highly probable that the 
noxious quality of the honey gathered from some flowers, is for the 
most part evaporated before it is sealed over by the bees, while the 
honey is thickening in the cells. Boiling the honey would of course 
expel it more effectually, and it is a well-ascertained fact that some 
persons are not able to eat even the best honey with impunity, until 
after itis boiled! TI believe that if persons who are injured by honey, 
would subject it to this operation they would usually find it to exert no 
injurious influence on the system. i 

“T have met with individuals upon whom a sting produced tho 
singular effect of causing their breath to smell like the venom of the 
enraged insect. ; ' 

“ YJhile the poison of most snakes and many other noxious animals 
affects only the circulating system, and may therefore be swallowed 
with impunity, the poison of the bee acts powerfully, not only upon the 
circulating system, but upon the organs of digestion. 5 

‘An old writer recommends a powder of dried bees for distressing 
cases of stoppages; and some of the highest medical authorities have 
recently recommended a tea made by pouring boiling water upon bees 
for the same complaint, while the homeopathic physicians enrploy the 
poison of the bee, which they call ‘‘apis,” for a great variety of 
maladies. That it is capable of producing intense headaches, any one 
who has been stung, or who has tasted tho poison, very well knows.” 

‘Bees often thrust out their sting, in a threatening manner, even 
when they do not make an attack; when extruded from its sheath, it 
exhibits 2 minute drop of poison on its point, the odour of which is 
quickly perceived, and some of it is occasionally flirted into the eye of 
the apiarian, causing considerable itching.” Wd. 1807. 

T have known for many years that many of the peculiar effects pro- 
duced upon the human system by honey, were owing mainly, if not 
entirely, to the poison of the bee in the honey eaten. I know of no 
one before me who has called the attention of medical men to this im- 
portant fact. ra i t 

Hyery experienced bee-keeper knows that itis next to impossible to 
remove honey from a hive without exciting the bees; the least tap 


April 20, 1871. ] 


upon the hive causes them to thrust ont their stings, and thus to bedew 
the combs with their poison, so that every disturbing influence causes 
an effusion of more or less poison, even when the honey is not, at the 
time of this disturbance, taken from the hive. This poison, adhering 
to and drying upon the honeycomb, will, for a very considerable time, 
be active in its effects.+ It is a well-known fact that some persons 
cannot eat even a very little honey without distressing colic pains; 
and I have repeatedly demonstrated that if the honey is boiled, or 
brought nearly to the boiling-point, such persons can eat it with im- 
punity, while they cannot eat safely a small quantity of loaf sugar in 
which some of this bee-poison has been put. As the bee-poison+ is very 
volatile, slightly boiling the honey seems to dissipate it entirely. 

The fact that there is almost always more or less bee poison in the 
honey of commerce, and that many of the peculiar symptoms caused 
by eating honey are attributable to this poison, opens a new source of 
inquiry to the medical world; and they can now use the vast stores of 
facts and opinions as to the medical virtues of honey, furnished by 
Aristotle, Hippocrates,} Galen, Pliny, and a host of old and medical 
authors. 

It is obvious from these remarks, that the remarkable effects claimed 
by the homeopathists to be produced upon the human system by the 
bee poison, and which they have regarded as quite a recent discovery, 
may be traced back almost to the remotest antiquity, and found to have 
equally important relations to the old schools of medicine. 

Schuckard, in his recent work on ‘British Bees,” says: ‘‘ The 
earliest manuscript extant, which is the medical papyrus, now in the 
Royal collection at Berlin, and of which Brugsch has given a fac-simile 
and a translation, dates from the nineteenth or twentieth Egyptian 
dynasty, accordingly from the reign of Ramses [I., and goes back to 
the fourteenth century before our era. Buta portion of this papyrus 
indicates a much higher antiquity, extending as far back as the period 
of the sovereigns who built the pyramids, consequently to the very 
earliest period of the history of the world. 

“Tt was one of the medical treatises contained within the temple of 
Ptah, at Memphis, and which the Egyptian physicians were required 
to use in the practice of their profession, and if they neglected such 
use they became resporsible for the death of such patients, who suc- 
cumbed under their treatment, it being attributed to their contravening 
the sacred-prescriptions. This pharmacopxia enumerates amongst its 
many ingredients honey, wine, and milk; we have thus extremely 
early positive evidence of the cultivation of: bees. That they had 
been domesticated for use in those remote times is further shown by 
the fact mentioned by Sir Gardiner Wilkinson, of a hive being repre- 
sented upon an ancient tomb at Thebes. 

“Tt may haye been in consequence of some traditional knowledge of 
the ancient medical practice of the Egyptians, that Mahomet, in his 
Koran, preseribes honey as a medicine. One of the Suras, or chapters, 
of that work is entitled ‘The Bee,’ and in which Mahomet says :— 
‘The Lord spake by inspiration unto the bee, saying: Provide theo 
houses in the mountains and in the trees [clearly signifying the cavities 
in the rocks and hollows of trees, wherein the bees construct their 
combs], and of those materials wherewith men build hives for thee; 
then eae of every kind of fruit, and walkin the beaten paths of thy 

ord.’ 
medicine for men. Verily herein is a sign unto people who consider. 

“Tt is remarkable that the bee is the only creature that Mahomet 
assumes the Almighty to have directly addressed. Al-Beidawi, the 
Arabian commentztor upon the Koran, whose authority ranks very 
high, in notes upon passages of the preceding extracts, says, ‘The 
houses alluded to are the combs, whose beautiful workmanship and 
admirable contrivance no gecmetrician can excel.’ The ‘beaten paths 
of thy Lord,’ he says, ‘are the ways through which, by God’s power, 
the bitter flowers passing the bee’s stomach, become honey; or, the 
methods of making honey he has taught her by instinct, or else the 
ready way home from the distant places to which that insect flies.’ 
The liquor proceeding from their bellies, Al-Beidawi says, ‘is the 
honey, the colour of which is very different, occasioned by the different 
plants on which the bees feed; some being white, some yellow, some 
red, and some black.’ He appends a note to where Mahomet says, 
‘therein is a medicine for man,’ which contains a curious anecdote. 
The note says, ‘The same being not only good for food, but a useful 
remedy in several distempers.’ There is a story that a man once 
came to Mahomet, and told him his brother was afflicted with a violent 
pain in his belly; upon which the prophet bade him give him some 
honey. The fellow took his advice; but soon after, coming again, 
told him that the medicine had done his brother no manner of service. 
Mahomet answers, ‘Go and give him more honey, for God speaks 
truth, and thy brother's belly lies.’ And the dose being repeated, the 
man, by God’s mercy, was immediately cured.” 


Batler, in his ‘‘ Feminine Monarchy,” speaks as follows :— 
“ Honey is hot and dry in the second degree ; it is of subtle parts, and 


* Those using the Hruschka or centrifugal machine for emptying honey 
from the combs—so named after its inventor Major Hruschka—should be 
careful to heat nearly to the boiling point all Hruschkaed honey, to be sure 
that the poison of the bee.has been effectually expelled from it. This is 
the more necessary, as the process of removing for emptying is’ more 
likely to excite the bees than the simple removal of the honey in boxes. 

qed much prefer this good old Anglo-Saxon term to Apis mellifica, the 
name given to it by the homeopathists, but which is the proper scientific 
name of the honey bee itself. + Born 460 years before Christ. 


There proceedeth from their bellies a liquor, wherein is a | 4 
| eatarrh, and that on one occasion he obtained relief from severe pain, 


| his nostrils feeling almost closed. He rubbed his little finger in some 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


| 


297 


therefore does not pierce as oil, and easily passes into the body. It has 
a power to cleanse, and some sharpness withal, and therefore it openeth 
obstructions ; it cleareth the breast and lights of those humours which 
fall from the head to those parts ; looseth the belly, and purgeth the 
foulness of the body, and provoketh urine; it cutteth and casteth up 
phlegmatic matter, and therefore sharpeneth the stomachs of them 
which by reason thereof have little appetite; it purgeth those things 
which hurt the clearness of the eyes; it nourisheth very much; it 
breedeth good blood; it stirreth up and preserveth natural heat, and 
prolongeth old age; it keepeth all things uncorrupt, which are put 
into it, and therefore physicians do temper therewith such medicines 
as they mean to keep long; yea, the bodies of the dead being embalmed 
with honey, have been thereby preserved from putrefaction.. It isa 
sovereign medicament for outward and inward maladies. It helpeth 
the griefs of the jaws, the kernels growing within the mouth, and the 
squinanci or inflammation of the muscle of the inuer gargil, for which 
purpose it is gargarised and the mouth washed with it. It is drunk 
against the biting of a serpent. . . . . All which premises being con- 
sidered no marvel though the wise king said, ‘My son eat honey, for it 
is good.’ .... Yea, honey, if it be pure and fine, isso good im itself, 
that it must needs be good even for them whose queasy stomachs are 
against it.” 

Butler refers to Aristotle, Galen, Pliny, and a number of old writers. 
Having no time now to examine what all these old and modern writers 
have said on the virtues of honey, and to show in how many instances 
the effects produced. by its use upon the human system must have 
been owing to the presence of the bee poison, a few quotations from 
the elder Pliny (born a.p. 23) on the virtues of honey, will be of 
peculiar interest. I extract from Holland’s translation, published in 
London in 1601. : 

‘‘Honeyeombs given in a gruel made of furmitie first parched and 
dried at the fire, is singular for the bloody flux and exulcation of the 
bowls,” vol 2, page 137. ‘‘In the throat the kernels of each side 
thereof called the tonsils, for the squinanci (quinsy), and all the other 
evils befalling to the mouth, as also for the dryness of the tongue 
through extremity of heat in fevers, it is the most sovereign thing in 
the world,” page 135. ‘‘ Honey boiled is singular for the inflammation 
of the lungs and for the pleurisy ; also, it cureth the wounds inflicted 
by the sting or teeth of serpents. . . . Honey, together with the oyle 
of roses, dropped into the ears, cureth their stinging and pain. ..... . 
being used simply alone, and not compounded with other things, it is 
hurtful to the eyes, and yet others give counsel to touch and anoint 
the corners of the eyes therewith, when they are exulerate.” ‘‘It is 
an excellent thing for them that be stung, to take the very bees in drink, 
for itis an approved cure.” . . ‘As touching divers sorts of vyenom- 
ous honey, I have written already; but for to repress the poison 
thereof, it is good to use other honey wherein a number of bees have 
been forced to die ; and such honey so prepared and taken in time, is 
a sovereign remedy for all the accidents which may come by eating or 
surfeiting upon fish.” Page 363. The italics are mine. 

I will close by relating a conversation I had two weeks ago with Mr. 
Eli Whitney, of New Haven (Coun.,) son of the celebrated Eli Whit- 
ney, inventor of the cotton-gin. Knowing the interest I took in bees 
and honey, he told me that for years he had suffered from acute chronic 


honey before him, which was exuding from the comb, and applied it to 
the inner nostrils as an emollient or lubricator. Experiencing almost 
instantaneous relief, he continued to use honey freely for this purpose, 
until now he is almost entirely cured. Had he used boiled honey, he 
would probably have been but little, if any, benefited thereby; and had 
he used sugar syrup with bee-poison added, I presume it would have 
proved equally curative with the honey. The use of honey for catarrh 
is clearly suggested by the above extracts from Pliny and Butler.— 
L. L. Lanestroru, Oxford, Ohio. 


SIZE OF HIVES. 


Can you inform me why Mr. Pettigrew prefers hives 16 and 
18 inches by 12 inches? I think if the hives were 20 and 
22 inches wide and 7 or Sixnches high they would be better.— 
TANCASEIRE. 

[In snswer tothe above inquiry, I have to say that the shape 
of the hives is left in the ‘‘ Handy Book of Bees.”’ to the taste 
ofitsreaders. In my eyes a hive 22 inches wide by 7 or 8inches 
high would be offensively disproportioned ; it would look like a 
great Gloucester cheese in shape, whereas.a hive 12 inches deep 
and 18 inches wide is symmetrical and pleasing. All persons 
who see my hives are as much astonished at their beauty as at 
their size. ‘ Lancasnire” thinks a shallower hive would be 
better. In what sense better? I have stated elsewhere that 
the bees in shallow hives, generally speaking, gather honey 
faster than in narrow deep ones;. but I think 7 or 8 inches too 
shallow for breeding, and that the deep hives are better for 
the purpose. Hence I adopt and recommend hives 16 and 
18 inches wide by 12 deep, inside measure; but I hope “ Dan- 
CASHIRE”’ will try the wide-shallow hive, be pleased with the 
result, and let the readers of the Journal have the henefit of his 


298 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April £0, 1871. 


————————————————— eee 


experience. Once I had a hive 24 inches wide and 7 inches 
deep, and kept it three years. The bees swarmed every year, 
and did pretty well; but ever since I have preferred hives with 
& greater depth of comb.—A. Prrricrew | 


AMERICAN BEE-KEEPERS' ASSOCIATION. 


_In accordance with an announcement made some time pre- 
viously, a meeting of bee-keepers was held at Cincinnati on the 
8th of February and following two days. This movement, end a 
similar one held at Indianapolis in December, were to a great 
extent in opposition to one another, but a strenuous effort is 
being made to effect an. amicable union among bee-keepers, 80 
as to have but one national association of the fraternity. The 
two societies organised at Indianapolis and at Cincinnati are 
each to meet at Cleveland, Ohio, on the first Wednesday in 
December, and it is hoped that on that occasion union will be 
effected. Mr. Langstroth was elected president of the assccia- 
tion formed at Cincinnati, and the Rey. H. A. King, of New 
York, secretary. 

_The convention extended over three days, and interesting 
discussions were held on a variety of topics, sach as winter 
management, swarming, hybrids, Italian and Egyptian bees, 
honey plants, the mel-extractor, the benefit of salt to bees, &e. 
A proposal to raise a sum of 5000 doles. as a testimonial to Mr. 
Langstroth for his services as the pioneer of scientific bee- 
culturein America, was adopted, but not without eliciting some 
sharp contention arising chiefly out of conflicting interests in 
patent rights. There is a certain class of apiarians who seem 
to be apt imitators of the “busy bee” in stinging those who 
annoy them ; with the exception of this ill-timed ebullition of 


jealousy, the convention appears to have been a pleasant and 
instructive one. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Great Harwood SHow.—After reading Mr. Ashworth’s letter in last 
week's Journal, I applied personally to the Judge who officiated at the above 
Show, to ascertain if my statement was correct or not. I find that the 
pens numbered 342, Carrier hens, and 358, Barbs, were empty at the time 
the awards were made, and also that both of the winning pens of Dragoons 
were both Yellows, though at that time one of my pens contained a pair 
of Blue ones, which was a colour that I did not exhibit—H. YARDLEY. 

INFLUENCE oF Mate Brrp (Turk).—Your suggestion is of an impos- 
sibility. You are not aware of the anatcmy of a fowl. 

TRIMMING SPANISH Fowxs (Inquirer).—Any judge who does his duty 
will disqualify your birds if he detects that the feathers are plucked away 
8 you propose. 

Your oF Ducx’s Eaces Dark (Constant Reader).—We do not know the 

cause of the eggs being dark. It happens sometimes with us that one in 
twenty or thirty is of that dark colour. We do not note it ; we accept it 
as a natural occurrence, and think that the evil, if it be one, will cure 
itself with fine weather and plain diet. 
- CLAWS oF Potanps (J. W. J.) —Your friend cannot be serious when he 
tells you Polands of any colour should have five claws. He is either 
jesting or he knows nothing of the subject. There are no white Dorking 
Polands, or white Poland Dorkings. 

Tarts oF BRaumas (Poussin).—It is right that the tails of Light 
Brahmas, both cocks and hens, should be entirely black. It is not a 
serious fault if the sickles of the cock are slightly edged with silver. It is 
better they should be black. It is not even an advantage for the sickles 
to diverge laterally. You may take it as a rule that a Light Brabma 
should have a light body, striped hackle, and a black tail and flight. 

Hatcuine Eae@s or Cocurn-Curnas (M. Ross).—Cochin eggs do not 
take longer to hatch than others, The reverberation from the firing of a 
small cannon would not affect the eggs. When a full-sized chicken dies 
in the shell it is because the egg has been kept too dry, and the chicken 
cannot accomplish its exit. This cannot occur if the eggs are thoroughly 
wetted every day for ten days before hatching. If the dead chickens 
were only one-third formed, it follows they lived one week and have been 
dead two. The egg should be putrid. They were fertile eggs, or no 
chicken would have formed. We believe those which have died in the 
eggs were chilled. {tis more than probable they were on the top of the 
nest, and, the hen having left them too long, they died from cold. Pro- 
fessed henwives would tell you, you could expect no luck because your 
hen sat on an even number of eggs. 

GrounpD Oats (G. D.).—We prefer No.1. Itis above the average, but 
not so good as we have seen. 

CHICKENS FROM A DouBLE EGG (Constant Reader, W. H. B.).—It was 
long said double eggs were unproductive, but it has been proved of late 
they often produce two chickens. They are generally weak, but they do 
not always die. They are equivalent to twins in other animals. It is a 
barbarous work to break the shell of an entire egg to facilitate the egress 
of the chicken, it is also unnecessary. Where the eggs are kept well 
wetted they allow the chick to escape easily ; where they are allowed to 
get hard and dry the strongest chicken suffers from its struggles. 

WEIGHT oF Bantam Cock (Sworrab).—A Black Red Game Bantam 
cock should weigh 17 or 18 ozs., the hen 12 tol4ozs. Willow legs are the 
most admired, but they are not more correct than the others. 

* PreEons (Idem).—It is detrimental to Antwerps if their wings droop 
below their tails. The exuding from the oleaginous gland of the Pigeon 
arises from its being relaxed and ont of order. Wash it with salt and water. 

PIGEON wiItH HEAD TuRNED (Old Bob Ridley).—Your Pigeon has most 
probably the yertigo. The only chance, as it is a disease thought to be 
caused by high feeding, is to separate it from the rest and feed low. Ifit 
do not improve, it will be the kindest plan to wring its neck, Pulling the 
whole of the feathers out of the tail was a good plan, as it would tend to 


lower the bird. On the same principle we have known when animals 
have had the same disease, that farriers have put the lancet again and 
again into their tail, and a cure we know in one case was thus effected. 

Bars PicEons Lavine Sorr Ecos (M. W. W.).—If your birds are in 
confinement, have you supplied them with old mortar rubbish, or any 
material to form egg shells? If you have not, that will be the cause. 
ff you have, and there is no fault there, examine your birds and see if 
they are very fat; then, if so, give an aperient pill, and so lower the 
system. Perhaps you may have been feeding them too highly. In our 
own loft we have had this spring an unusual number of clear eggs, which 
we attribute to the cold of the late winter. 

_ PorTRAITS oF PicEons (Croydonia).—The following have been pub- 
lished in this Journal:—Antwerp in No. 464; Carrier, No. 472; Dragoon, 
No. 474; Pouter, No. 483; Almond Tumbler, No. 489; Barb, No. 499; Fly- 
ing Tumbler, No. 509; Fantail, No. 512; and Turbit, No. 523. 


CaGE FOR BULLFINCH (4 Two-years Subscriber).—Any ordinary Canary : 


song cage will do for a Bulifinch. 
hemp mixed.—W. A. B. 

_Pip IN CaNanies (C. A. J.).—I am not aware of the primary cause of 
pip in Canaries—that is, I do not know of anything likely to induce it. 
It results from inflammation of the oil gland. The usual mode of treat- 
ment is to open the pustule with a fine needle, and carefully express the 
matter, afterwards anointing the part with fresh butter. This must be 
done’ te Saye: pe bird’s life, but death usually superyenes at the next 
moult.—W. A. B. 


BEE-KNIFE (dmateur).—Messrs. Neighbour or Mr. Pettit could supply 
you. 


Feed on Canary, rape, and a little 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 


zt CAMDEN SquaReE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Date. 9 aM. | In THE Day. 
mole | Radiation _ 
isi. |$88| Hygrome- | pirec-| Temp.|°parstures | Tempera- | 3 
Fs ter. ; £ : ‘ ture. Ss 
« |O Sue tion! of) of *Sol| ee ae 
April. | 3.49) _______| Wind. | at 1 #t. In | On 
98%") Dry. , Wet. | Max.| Min. | sun. | grass’ 
Inches.| deg. | deg deg. | deg. | deg.| deg. | deg.| In. 
We. 12 | 29.838 | 52.8 | 52.0 | S.W. 45.5 66.0 | 467 |122.0 | 42.3 | 0.050 
Th. 13 | 39.025 | 56.7 | 54.4 | N.W. 47.8 64.0 | 47.0 |1100 | 43.9 | — 
Fri. 14 | 29.925 | 47.0 | 46.0 | S.B. 48.3 63.0 | 43.2 |100.8 | 89.0 | 0.120 
Sat.15 | 29.810 | 62.0 | 502 | S.W. 49.0 59.2 | 47.0 | 92.6 | 44.2. | 0.070 
Sun.16 | 29.871 | 53.0 | 50.6 W. 48.9 58.4 | 47.5 |101.0 | 44.3 | 0.470 
Mo. 17 | 29,888 | 50.0 | 48.4 W. 48.7 63.1 | 46.2 |110.6 | 46.0 | 0.070 
Tu. 18 | 29.641 | 52.0 | 49.2 | S.E. 49.5 55.4 | 47.6 | 6£.5 | 46.2 | 0.710 
Means 29.643 | 51.9 | 50.1 48.2 | 61.3 | 46.5 | 100.2 | 43.7 | 1.490 
REMARKS. 


12th.—Very fine morning. noon, and early part of afternoon, rainat 7 P.M. 
but fine afterwards. 

13th.—Rather dull morning, but very fine afternoon and evening. 

14th.—Very fine and clear at 6 A.m.,rather dull at 9 a.m., fine afternoon, 
dull evening. 

15th.—Rain in the night and till noon, very fine afterwards though windy. 

16th.—Rain in the night, very fine in early morning, showery day, fine 
evening. (evening. 

17th.—Dnull morning, showery till about 2 p.m, then fine afternoon and 

18th.—Dull morning, air very heavy till noon, feeling as if there would be 
thunder, afterwards heavy rain all day and dark. 

A week of uncertain weather, at times beautifully fine and then a sudden 
shower. The fall of rain very great for so short a time, but it was much 
wanted.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Aprit 19. 


WE have still but a limited amount of business doing for the season, 
and that not at all of a high-class character, our chief customers being 
from the Midland markets for rough vegetables and Rhubarb, sales being 
effected at rather lower rates. Continental supplies are very irregular; 
the Potato trade heavy at former quotations. 


FRUIT. 
s. d ER hee cs e 
sieve 1 6 to3 0 . 0 
. 0 00 00 00 
0 00 6 0 10 0 
o 18 G 00 00 
0 O OQ} Pears,kitchen . doz. 20 6 0 
0 00 dessert... doz. 00 00 
0 O O| Pine Apples. --lb. 6 0 10 0 
0 2 0} Plums.... tsieve 00 00 
0 2 6} Quinces.. doz. 00 00 
0 1 6| Raspberries.. .lb. 0 0 O86 
0 20 0| Strawberries ........0z. 0 9 18 
Lemons.... 0 10 0| Walnuts... lo 0 160 
Melons..... 0 00 ditto.... 10 30 
VEGETABLES. 
s.d. 8. a s.d. 8. da 
Artichokes.......... 4 0to6 0} Leeks ..........65 bunch 0 4to0 6 
Asparagus ..... 40 8 0} Lettuce ..... wee Gon. 10) 529 0 
Beans, Kidney ....%%100 1 0 2 0} Mushrooms. 10 26 
Broad ushel 0 0 O 0 02 00 
20 80 76 10 0 
‘Ov ow manne : 00 00 
00 00 830 60 
Cabbage........ bt) fy 0) 09 10 
Capsicums 00 00 00 00 
Carrots... 04 08 bushel 2 0 40 
Cauliflowe: 80 80 Kidney.......-....d0, 8 0 4 0 
Celery 1 6 2 0| Radishes..doz.bunches 0 6 1 0 
Coleworts..doz. bunches 8 0 6 0] Rhubarb..........bundle 0 4 10 
Cucumbers ........each 0 6 1 6] Savoys.-............doz. 1 6 2 0 
pickling . doz. 0 0 O 0} Sea-kale..........basket 2 0 $8 0 
Endive... doz. 2 0 0 Oj Shallots... seceeeelb, O 6 0 0 
Fennel -bunch 0 8 0 0| Spinach... »bushel 8 0 5 0 
Garlic. «.--lb. 0 8 0 0} Tomatoes. «doz. 00 00 
Herbs.... bunch 0 8 0 O| Turnips..........bunch 0 6 0 9 
Horseradish ....bundle 3 0 6 0! Vegetable Marrews.,doz.=0 0 0 0 


April 27, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 299 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
) Tala 
Darul Day Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s| Clock | Day 
Tan sae APRIL 27—MAY 8, 1871. ture near London. |43 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets. Age. | ances mote 
S| Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. | m. h.| m. h.| m. h. | m. h.| Days. | m. 38. 
27. | TH | Meeting of Royal Society, 8.30 p.m. 593 | 85.7 | 47.5 18 | 43af4 | 1d af7 | 48 af9 | 41 afl yd | 2 26 | 117 
28 F 60.8 | 85.7 | 48.2 18 1) 4G e520 | 16 2 8 | 2 35) 118 
29°) S Anniversary Meeting of Zoological Society. | 60.5 | 87.5 | 49.0 | 15 89, 4,17 7| after. | 47 2 Oy aloe 44 lly 
30 | Sun | 8 Sunpay aFTER EasTER. 61.0 | 39.1 | 50.1 17 87 4/19 7 | 28 1/12 8 10 { 2 53 | 120 
1 |M Meeting of Entomological Society. | 61.4 | 99.2 | 503 | 16 |} 35 4/21 7 42 2/35 38 wo | 8 1} 121 
2 | To | 627 | 891 | 509 | 15 | 83 4) 98 7) 8 4/56 8] 12 | 3 8) ie2 
3 W Royal Horticultural Society, Fruit, Floral, 62.4 | 42.2 | 52.3 COM ol ta Rak de ee On| LOL od: 18. |) .3 1541128 
{ and General Meeting. | | | | | | | 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 61.2°, and its night tem- 
perature 88.3°. The greatest heat was 81°, on the 28th, 1840; and the lowest cold 18°, on the 29th, 1861. The greatest fall of rain was 
0.75 inch. 


RULES FOR HYBRIDISING AND CROSS- 
BREEDING. ; 


Y lengthened pursuit of the very fascinating 
art of hybridising and cross-breeding flowers 
having enabled me to reduce my practice to 
a system that is easy to follow and certain 
to command success, I feel warranted in 
offering the results of my experience for 
the consideration of amateurs, trusting that 
many will follow my example, and that they 


as I have enjoyed while riding this, my 
favourite, hobby. The hints that I propose to offer are 
applicable, with modifications, to most genera of plants, 
though they have special reference to those having flowers 
of a tubular form, which latter may, with few exceptions, 
be brought under entire subjection to the will of the ope- 
rator. Primulas, Polyanthuses, Phloxes, Petunias, Peri- 
winkles, Verbenas, Thunbergias, Achimenes, and a host of 
other genera are only awaiting the attention of scientific 
hybridists to develope a large increase of floral beauty. 

To insure success nothing must be left to chance. 


or insects. 

The system which I advocate requires the strict observ- 
ance of three rules—viz., isolation, preparation, and regis- 
tration. Theserules I will consider in their turn, and then 
conclude with a few remarks. 

Isolation can only be secured by having the seed-bearing 
plants in pots, to allow the hybridist during the period of 
fertilisation to keep them apart from the general collection. 

Preparation is effected by removing all blooms that are 
either fully expanded or more than half formed. As the 
buds arrive at this stage of growth, with a pair of fine dis- 
secting scissors cut open the right side quite to the base of 
the calyx, and then extract the anthers without shedding 
the pollen. When the mutilated flowers are almost ready 
to fall, touch the stigma with an anther from the plant you 
wish to cross with, which can be conveniently accomplished 
by using a small pair of fly-dressers’ tweezers. 

Having done this, registration becomes necessary the 
observance of which is of great importance, for by its aid 
the requisite quantity of seed of each cross can be secured, 
and excess is avoided. Again, in the case of failure, the 
operator can begin de novo, or after repeated defeats he 
can decide what species will not hybridise. 

Registration is comprehensively carried out by ruling a 
metallic paper memorandum book to the annexed pattern— 


W.T. 0.S. BT. | 
1 | blandus .... 2 3 6 | 
wr. 
2 | pictus ...... 8 
W.s. 
83 | oculatus.... 6 
4 | ruber ...... 
5 | manus ...... 
6 | fulvus ...... 


No. 526.—VoL. X¥., NEw SERIES. 


Fach | 
seed or pod of seed ought to be the result of careful thought | 
and manipulation, undisturbed by the interference of winds | 


The pocket of the book will hold scissors and tweezers, 
with a supply of white, black, and grey thread, also white, 
black, orange, and gentian silk. 

The first column shows the numbers that represent the 
various plants that are named, in the second column the 
squares record the different crosses that have been made. 


| Thus a glance at the registration table shows that No. 1, 


may derive the same amount of interest | 


| 


or blandus, has been fertilised with pictus, oculatus, and 
fulvus, and that white thread, orange silk, and black thread 
distinguish the respective crosses. By doubling the threads, 
or combining the various colours, any reasonable number 
of registrations may be recorded. 

Lastly, let me advise beginners not to be soon discou- 
raged, for even those who possess an average knowledge of 
the practice of cross-breeding require to work for two or 
three years on any species they may wish to improve be- 
fore they are able to do so to the greatest advantage. 
—A. CLAPHAM. 


EARLY-FLOWERING SHOW PELARGONIUMS. 


THERE was in a recent number of the Journal [page 157] 
an interesting article on this very useful class of conserva- 
tory decorative plants. Ihave not the number to refer to, 
but the article emanated from Drayton Manor Gardens, 
and gave practical details of cultivation in the production 
of early bloom. A list of varieties was given, Crimson 
King, if I recollect rightly, occupying a prominent place. 
Having a continuous display of flowers to keep up, and 


| having considerable demands for cut blooms for room de- 


coration, I find nothing more useful during the months of 
March and April than this very useful class of plants ; 
indeed, so acceptable are they, and so greatly admired, that 
I wonder how they can be dispensed with to the extent 
they are. No plants can be cut with less injury, and none 
give a greater variety of colours, or have a better appear- 
ance in vases, epergnes, &c. 

Without making cultural remarks, which would only be 
a repetition of the article referred to, I shall enumerate a 
few kinds which never fail to do good service with me, and 
which will do as well with others who require them. All 
the varieties named I have in bloom now, several of them 
having been flowering for some weeks past. Crimson 
King is undoubtedly one of the earliest, but it is not bright 
enough, and has a wiry habit of growth which is a draw- 
back; still, on account of its natural precocity it can hardly 
be dispensed with. A sort quite as early, and in all re- 
spects better, I find in Floribunda; it is deeper in colour, 
a better trusser, and more rigid in habit. Another in this 
line of colour is Gauntlet, a very useful variety ; and one 
a few days later, but better than either, is La Crimée. 
The old, but still good, French variety Eugene Duval is 
very useful as an early bloomer. It is rather prone to 
legginess, but the trusses are always good. Distinction 
has been in fine bloom a long time; it is one of the best. 
A few other dark varieties, better than the above in point 
of intrinsic merit, although not so early by a fortnight, 
are Leviathan, Charles Turner, Incomparable, Mrs. C. 
Binder, and Beacon. These are of bright colours, and may 
be gay in the early days of April. Diadem, fine at any 

No, 1178.—Vou. XLY., Op SERIES. 


300 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 27, 1871. 


time, is in full bloom now, but a bad habit common to this 
variety is to go blind, by the tips of the shoots terminating in 
a robust abnormal leaf. 

Of light varieties, the best of all, and the best and most useful 
Pelargonium for stage effect and cut blooms that I have grown, is 
Larkfield Rival. It is white, with a lovely tinge of pink in the 
upper petals. Its trusses are very large, and it is as sturdy in 
habit when in bloom in March as any other variety is in June; 
indeed it shows no evidence of being forced at all. Nothing 
can be finer in bouquets than this. It is a most attractive 
subject in the greenhouse, and is generally admired. It is 
hardly to be found in catalogues, being crowded out by later 
introductions—better, perhaps, in form of flower, judged by the 
fiorists’ standard, but there are few better in point of useful- 
ness to the gardener in the early days of spring. It is deserv- 
ing of more extended cultivation. Snowdrop is early and 
useful; so is Madame MLafiay, especially for cutting from. 
Patroness and Lilacina close my list; they are better than the 
others in point of form, but not quite so early, yet perhaps 
early enough to be out of bloom by the time this is in print. 

A further enumeration of varieties specially early from prac- 
tical cultivators would be of much assistance to gardeners and 
others interested, who may be adding to their collections of 
this pre-eminently useful, but partially ignored class of plants. 
Another advantage they possess is that the blooms travel well 
if they are cut—and this must be attended to—when just open- 
ing. If the flowers are expanded at the time of cutting, the 
petals will fall before they reach their destination. Iam told 
by my employers that nothing is more admired in cut blooms, 
by the family and their London friends, than these early 
Pelargoniums sent up amongst other plants for drawing-room 
decoration. 

Ti hybridists would turn theirjattention to the subject, and 
handle Larkfield Rival thoughtfully, I feel sure they would 


produce something worthy of their skill and efforts. There is | 
@ wide field open. Natural earliness, and close rigid habit, are | 


the points to be aimed at andto be attained. Points of culture 
are very simple. Ripen the wood well, and cut the plants down 
at the end of June; shake them out and place them in pots 
of about the same size, or a size smaller; grow them out of 
doors, sheltering them oniy from heavy rains; never stop the 
shoots, nor shift into larger pots until they knot for bloom at 
the turn of the year; then put them in their blooming pots, 
and the work is done, always keeping a watchful eye for insects. 
—J. W., Lincoln. 


THE CRITTENDEN DAMSON. 


Axpour a year ago, when the fruit orchards were in their 
gayest spring garb, I described the condition of a small fruit 
farm in the parish of Hast Farleigh, belonging to and in the 
occupation of Mr. John Crittenden, and subsequently in the 
autumn adverted to it again in calling attention to a very pro- 
lific Damson with which Mr. Crittenden’s name is associated. 
From some remarks then made by other fruit-growers end pro- 
pagators of trees, there appeared to be a doubt whether the 
variety might not be one that some one else might claim as 
well. Another visit to the worthy Kentish yeoman has put me 
in possession of more particulars as to the origin of this 
variety, its productive character, and I may say the fertility of 
the little plot of ground which Mr. Crittenden occupies. I 
shall give the figures as furnished to me by a nephew of Mr. 
Crittenden, who assists him in his market transactions, and I 
have waited until this could be ascertained with accuracy from 
the salesman’s returns. I believe that the total produce will 
bear comparison with that of any similar-sized plot in other 
localities, and I would certainly commend it to the con- 
sideration of those about to embark in any of the new-fashioned 
modes of fruit-growing on very small trees, as recommended 
by some authorities in such matters. I would especially ask 
them for an example of similar productiveness in their mini- 
ature orchards, or, it may be, orchards of diminutive trees. 

First of all I will state that the site of Mr. Crittenden’s or- 
chard is in no respect very different from those of hundreds of 
others surrounding it, the district being one vast orchard, with 
large breadths of Hops, and a few small fields of corn and 
grass, intermingled with irregular patches of coppice, which 
give a picturesque appearance to the whole. The soil, to judge 
from its appearance only, is far from being what a farmer in 
the midland counties would call fertile, and for many agricul- 
tural crops of only one year’s growth it is certainly not fayour- 
able : but the healthy condition of the hedges and forest trees, 


as well as the fruit trees and Hops, unmistakeably show that 
the subsoil is all that can be desired. It is remarkably dry, 


for I believe that water is only obtained by sinking upwards. 


of 100 feet. Decomposed limestone in its various forms con- 
stitutes much of the under strata, while the top is far from 
being free irom stones, but all large ones have been removed 
long ago where cultivation has been going on. The surface 
soil, however, does not exhibit that mellow, fat condition which 
is often thought the token of great productiveness. 

Having on a former occasion given an outline of the district 
of which Mr. Crittenden’s little freehold forms a part, I may 
merely say that, taken as a whole, it forms an irregular oblong. 
A parish road is the boundary on two of its sides, on the west 
it is bounded by an orckard, while on the north side there 
igs no shelter whatever, and that is the coldest side, where 
shelter would be of service, butitis not there. The farmhouse, 
a conyenient building of its class, occupies one corner, and 
attached to it there are some necessary iarm buildings anda 
garden ; there are, besides, two cottages with small gardens 
attached. I mention these buildings, as the ground they 
occupy is included in the measurement of the land given below, 
although not helping to produce the fruit. A portion of the 
ground is in grass, with some old Apples and other trees upon 
it, the rest is in tillage, a part being in Hops alone, a part in 
Hops mixed with Damson trees, and a part in Damson trees of 
from twelve to sixteen years’ growth. These are standard trees 
on stems from 5 to 6 feet high, with Red Currants beneath. 
The whole of the trees are pruned and managed in the way 
common in the neighbourhood. The pruning of the Currants, 
which, I may remark, are mostly Red, is very severe, while that 
of the Damson now consists in merely shortening some of the 
tips of the shoots growing to an unwieldy length; but when 
the trees were younger the knife was more freely used. There 
being but little manure made on the farm, most of it had to be 
purchased, and it hes been of various kinds, stable manure 
being the least used of any, as it seems to be all bespoke before 
it reaches so far from town; nevertheless, a liberal and jadi- 
cious application of manure is necessary to insure a proper 
return, and Mr. Crittenden has not been behind his neighbours 
in employing it. 

I now give the produce as derived from the figures furnished 
by the London salesman, and which are, therefore, not a mere 
conjecture or calculation. It is as follows:—601 bushels of 
Damsons, 100 bushels of Apples, 60 bushels of Currants, 
3 bushels of Cherries, 3 bushels of Gooseberries, 17} ewt. of 
Hops. The above is all from 3 acres 1 rood 30 perches, or 
rather from less than 3 acres, for the site of the farmhouse, its 
garden and yards, as well as the two cottages and their gardens, 
are all included in the measurement, which, I may observe, is 
that of the Ordnance Survey, a former survey making the 
property 3 acres 2 roods, which I believe is the area stated 
last year. Might I ask for an authentic example of a like kind 
from any other source? I may further observe that the Dam- 
sons, Currants, and Hops appear to have all been grown on 
about 2 acres; the plot could not be much more, from the space 
occupied by the other crops. 

And now for the origin of this Damson, which has been 


planted by thousands in this neighbourhood of late years to 


the exclusion of all others, and occasionally we hear of litiga- 
tion following where a spurious kind is substituted for it. 
Some time ago a writer in this Journal asked who is Mr. Crit- 
tenden ? hinting that the Damson referred to must be that which 
he (the writer) had some twenty years ago; but if he goes no 
further back than twenty years, he hes a poor chance of claim- 
ing the parentage of this fruit. Mr. Crittenden at his next 
birthday will be fourscore; and although he cannot precisely 
say to a year or two when it came into his hands, it was, 
nevertheless, when he was a very young man, between fifty and 
sixty years ago, and he and a relative of his, a Mr. Green, also 
a fruit-grower in the same neighbourhood, had it between them 
for several years, until it came surreptitiously into the hands 
of others, before a quantity of it could be obtained. It was 
some years before its reputation was fairly recognised, and then 
trees could hardly be supplied fast enough. It has of late 
years been extensively planted by most, if not all, of those who 
have planted Damsons, and, jadging from appearances, this 
fruit is likely to be more plentiful hereafter than it has been of 
late, for many trees are planted in hedgerows and other un- 
promising places, the anxiety to make the most of every inch 
of land inducing planters to economiseallthey can. As a fruit 
itis not so large as the Prune or Shropshire Damson, neither 
is it so sweet as one locally termed the old kind, but it far ex- 


; 
: 
: 
; 
‘ 


} 


April 27, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


301 


ceeds them all in its good bearing qualities, rarely or never 
missing a crop, and often yielding a heavy one, as Mr. Critten- 
dev has had more fruit in some seasons than he had last year, 
which is not given ag an exceptional season, but as a good 
average year. 

The features of the tree differ but little from those of other 
Damsons, excepting in one particular, and on that, perhaps, 
its merits may in some degree depend—it is later in blooming 
than most others. This was very perceptible durivg the pre- 
sent season, where the old Sweet Damson was grown in the 
same locality as Crittenden’s Prolific, as it is often called, the 
former being in full flower some days before the latter. The 
heavy bearing of the tree causes a partial downward bending 
in the branches, and these often break when not propped up. 
Its long and remarkable clusters of fruit are a great recom- 
mendation; another is its adaptability to almost any situation. 
If anyone has a Damson which equals Crittenden’s in pro- 
ductiveness, and has the means of showing figures like the 
above, I shall be glad to hear of it—Jozn Rozson,. 


VIOLETS—DIELYTRA CUCULLARIA. 


WHILE you are recording the experiences of your corre- 
spondents about Violets allow me to add mine. The varieties 
I have are King, Queen, Tree, Old Blue, White, Brandyana, 
Marie Louise, Red, and Neapolitan of ihe doubles; and Russian, 
Czar, Devoniensiz, White, Wilsoni, Odorata (of New York), 
Californica, Obliqua Striata, Cucullata, and Pedata of the 
singles. All are scented except the last four, aud all hardy ex- 
cept the last. The last four ars also deciduous. 

In regard to the double varieties all are good, but their great 
fault is unquestionably their short stalks; and I doubt, if a 
number of blooms were mixed together, whether anyone could 
distinguish between King, Tree, and Old Blue—I cannot. It 
is possible I may not have King true, but in growth and every- 
thing it is only the Old Blue. Queen is very fine, but not 
white. It does not do so well in a frame as the Neapolitan, 
though in the open border the full sun does not affect it. 
However, my purest blooms I always gather at the back of a 
hedge in poor gravelly soil. Marie Louise, sent out two years 
ago, seoms nothing particular, but I have hardly. had time to 
give it a fair trial. Red.I can make nothing of; it is a poor 
mniffy plant with me. 

With regard to single varieties nothing can approach Czar in 
my opinion, though it is a little tender, and its leaves are dis- 
figured by frost; but for size, for scent, and for strength of 
growth it is unequalled. Devonionsis is good for its colour, 
scent, and length of stalk. Russian and White grow much 
where they please in my garden, and to any amount. Odorata 
(of New York) Ihave not yet bloomed. Californica is a fine late 
sort with no scent. Cucullata, highly spoken of, is no better 
than Viols caninaof the hedges. Pedata is very pretty, blooming 
twice in the year, but wants a cold frame. Wilsoniis a new 
variety, late and very sweet, with a pleasing colour, but the 
flower is bad. Of course all are not now in bloom, but I send 
what I can gather. 

“GL.” and ‘J. W.” have written so much and so well 
upon the culture of Violets that little more need be said. I 
may, however, remark that seed often remains in the ground 
for twelve months before it vegetates. ‘‘ J. W.” says that The 
Czar reproduces itself truly from seed. I can only say that 
three years ago I sowed a quantity of seed gathered by myself. 
After it had remained in the ground for twelve months plants 
came up. I planted out a large bed of the seedlings, which 
bloomed last year; every one of them turned out to be the 
common white Violet, there was not a blue one in the whole 
bed. I have occasionally saved seed from the Double Blue, 
which appeared perfectly good, but I cannot persuade it to 
vegetate. 

While writing, I wish to take the opportunity of saying that 
I have at last persuaded Dielytra cucullaria to bloom, after 
haying had it in possession ten years. I remember that a few 
years ago you requested me, if ever I succeeded in flowering it, 
I would send you a bloom. i have much pleasure in now com- 
plying with your request. It isa poor thing, and utterly unlike 
the coloured plate of it, the beauty of which induced me origin- 
ally to purchase it. I think the plate appeared in one of Van 
Houtte’s works.—A. R. 


[The specimens enclosed were very superior. Those of Queen 
are always stained with blue. Many years since we grew a 
more densely purple and more densely double variety than we 


now see anywhere. The soil was light, on a gravelly subsoil, 
and the garden an old one, full of old-fashioned flowers and old 
fruit trees. 

We do not agree with you in your estimate of the Dielytra 
cucullaria. The white waxen flowers among the pale green 
foliage surely must look graceful. Do not condemn it, but 
grow it a little more luxuriantly. Your flowers are the first we 
have seen, although the plant was introduced in 1731, and is 
portraited in the ‘‘ Botanical Magazine,” t. 1127, under the 
name of Fumaria cucullaria, or Two-spurred Fumitory. $As in 
your specimen, there are six flowers on the stalk, but rather 
larger than yours.—EbDs. | 


THINNING GRAPES. 


THINNING the fruit is by no means the least important part 
of Grape culture. It requires the combination of great care 
and sound judgment, as well as patience; therefore such work 
should not be entrusted to those who do not show a capability 
for it, for it is a very easy matter to spoil the appearance of a 
bunch, and, indeed, to injure a whole crop. by a too careless or 
injudicious application of the scissors. Many cultivators con- 
sider thinning Grapes the most perplexing part of gardening, 
and are very impatient over it, owing, perhaps, principally to 
their having had many times to place themselves in very awk- 
ward and inconvenient postures in order to perform the work. 
Through such disinclination to commence, the work and want 
of perseverance, as well as the pressure of other work at the 
same time, the crop is often irreparably injured by the berries 
becoming too crowded and large; eonsequently when thinning is 
done a sudden and unnatural check is given to the flow of the 
Vine’s juices, and there is a loss of much that would have been 
directed towards, and stored up in, the berries which would 
have remained after an earlier thinning; an imperfectly deve- 
loped and an uneven crop is the result. 

When the berries commence swelling after they are set, thin- 
ning should also begin, for besides other advantages it is then ~ 
easier to select the berries for cutting out and to shape out the 
bunch than at any other time, and one berry can be cut out 
without touching its neighbour—a thing always to be avoided, 
for almost the lightest touch with the hand or a puncture with 
the points of the scissors, though perhaps not seen at the time, 
will, as the berry approaches maturity, come out as a great 
eyesore and an objection to a good Grape-grower; and to the 
exhibitor of such Grapes it may be the means of placing him a 
stage or two lower in the prize list. In selecting 2 bunch of 
Grapes for thinniag, my first operation would be to shape the 
upper part of the bunch by tying out its loose shoulders, if any, 
with finely twisted matting; and in order to hold the bunch 
steady I use a twig from a birch broom about 8 inches long, with 
a crochet at one end like a prop, and a hook at the other end, 
so that the bunch or any part of it can be pushed from the ope- 
rator or brought nearer to him without leaving a mark of any 
kind. Next comes the thinning of the berries. The distance 
at which they should be left apart depends greatly upon the 
variety aud the crop to be taken from it, also the general vigour 
of the plant, and whether young or old; for instance, the 
berries of a Black Hamburgh, Muscat of Alexandria, and others 
of that class and size, must be lefi at a greater distance than 
those of a Frontignan or Sweetwater. At some places, and on 
heavily cropped old Vines, the berries will not swell to more 
than two-thirds the size of those at another place, therefore 
such matters must be taken into consideration. However, I 
guard as much as possible against overcropping ; I believe that 
more mischief results from inattention to this than many like 
to attribute to it. 

In thinning the berries a well-formed bunch should be aimed 
at; if they have set well there will be no difficulty in this. 
Retain the largest berries with the strongest footstalks. Icom- 
mence generally at the point of the bunch first, and take care 
to leave the centre berry of every branchlet. I like to see 
vigorous strings to the berries, and consider it anything but a 
good sign when the string is too weak to support the berry in 
its place ; it is a pretty sure sign of imperfect root action, and 
most likely shanking to a large extent.—Tuomas Rucorp.- 


WILD GERANIUMS, 


Tue remarks of your correspondent ‘‘ W. E.,’ in the number 
of April 6th, have been perused by me with sincere pleasure. 
I had long entertained views in harmony with his as reeards 
the enjoyment to be derived from the cultivation of plants so 


302 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 27, 1871. 


likely to produce striking varieties of foliage—perchance also 
of flowers—as those which he has introduced to the notice of 
your readers. 

_ Passionately fond of wild flowers from childhood, I have 
heretofore been prevented from making experiments such as 
those suggested by ‘‘ W. E.,” owing to want of space in my 
little garden allotment. Last year, however, I made a start on 
a very limited scale, but the result has been such as to em- 
bolden me in prosecuting the experiment. 

Geranium columbinum is somewhat searce in this part of 
the kingdom (West Cumberland). The species which I have 
taken into fayour are G. lucidum, molle, sylvaticum, sanguineum, 
and pratense. Of the last-named I have occasionally met with 
wild specimens having variegated leaves ; others I have noticed 
bearing beautiful white flowers, instead of the normal bluish- 
purple, and I wondered much whether these forms could be 
reproduced from seed ‘‘ true to their kinds.” 

Sanguineum, from the brilliancy of its flowers, has made its 
way into many a cottage garden in this locality, having been 
transplanted from the shores of the Solway Frith, where it 
may sometimes be met with abundantly; its bright blossoms 
forming a striking contrast to the surrounding colours, espe- 
cially when seen just peeping above the surface of the closely- 
cropped green sward, level almost as a carpet, its own proper 
foliage being completely hidden among the grass.—H. 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OF 
IRELAND'S SPRING EXHIBITION. 


THERE are drawbacks connected with most of our enjoy- | : 2 
| Kensington could not for one moment bear the comparison. 


ments, and so with revisiting scenes where one has played a 
part in times past. It is pleasant to see the old places, to meet 
friends whom one has known and not seen for years; but it 
is a little drawback to be told, ‘‘Dear me! how old you are 
getting! Well, I declare, I should never have known you!” 
and such like. But yet we must be prepared for all this, and 
after the first brush one becomes accustomed to it, begins to 
think that a bald head is venerable, and that grey hairs are 
perhaps preferable to brown. 

Thad just had time to pack up my Auriculas on Wednesday 
at Kensington, see them off, and then drive as hard as I could 
to Euston Square and get off to Dublin, where I was to judge 
at the spring exhibition of the Royal Horticultural Society of 
Ireland, and the remarks that I have to make are thus made 
with both exhibitions in my mind. 

The show was held in the gardens attached to the exhibition 
building, which those liberal citizens of Dublin, the Guinnesses, 
have purchased in order to secure it as a recreation place for 
the inhabitants of the city. The plants were all staged in 
tents, of which there were five, while the building was used as 
a promenade—an arrangement infinitely better than the old 
plan of holding shows in the dark gloomy Rotunda, and with 


plan would be to hold the show in the building, with an awning 
stretched over the plants as at the Crystal Palace. I need not 
say the arrangement was immeasurably beyond Kensington, 
for one tent was devoted to greenhouse plants, &c., another 
to Azaleas, another to florists’ flowers, &c.; and I could not 
but be struck with the immense strides that had been made in 
plant-growing since my younger days. 

In looking at the plants, as compared with the London shows 
I could see very little in the Azaleas of inferiority. The large 
plants were very fine, although in some few cases they were 
not evenly bloomed; whether owing to their having been in a 
house and not sufficiently turned, or being neglected when set 
out of doors in the summer, I csnnot say, but there were a 
few plants that exhibited this defect. The smaller plants were 
perfect and these are to me more pleasing. Amongst other 
things I may say Roses in pots were very well done, and I have 
nowhere seen so good a plant of Adiantum farleyense as that 
exhibited by Mr. Watson, nor a fine An hurium Scherzerianum 
than that of Capt. Coote. 

Florists’ flowers consisted of Hyacinths, Auriculas, Roses, 
and Pansies. With regard to the first, it was of course much 
too late, yet a superb set of eighteen was exhibited by Mr. 
S. M. Tandy, who may be styled the champion Hyacinth grower 
of Ireland, as he won the cup last year and again this season. 
He had immense difficulty in keeping them back, and the 
manner in which the foliage was grown, stiff and upright, did 
him great credit. Mr. Henry Roe algo exhibited a very fine 
eighteen, but it is not fair to the Hyacinth to give prizes on 
April 20th; and although financially the Hyacinth show did 


the tents in the garden; still, I cannot but think that a better | Paul (Moss), and Abbé Giraudier. 


not succeed last year, yet I cannot but think, if held at the 
Exhibition Palace, and Cyclamens and a few other spring 
flowers were added, the experiment would be a success if tried 
again. The cut blooms of Roses were very good. I see that 
here it is allowed to show foliage not belonging to the truss. 
I cannot say I see the evil of it, andit certainly adds to the 

appearance of the stand. ° 

Auriculas, I do not hesitate to say, were far in advance of 
those exhibited at Kensington; there were more competitors, 
and the flowers were better. Here again Mr. Tandy came 
in first in both classes of eight and four; some of his flowers 
were models of good cultivation, while the sorts were those 
which are also considered on our side to be the best—George 
Lightbody, Richard Headly, Chapman’s Maria, Waterhouse’s 
Conqueror, Lord Clyde, Lancashire Hero, and others. There 
was an inclination with some growers to grow them too strong, 
and so get size at the expense of refinement. If any of them 
should read these lines, will they bear with me if I say this is to 
be deplored? I look upon the Dublin florists asin many things 
in advance of the metropolitan ones, and do not let them get 
into the vicious habit which we are endeavouring to correct by 
our Metropolitan Floral Society. Pansies were very indifferent; 
badly grown, and badly set up. 

On the whole, I think the Dublin folks are to be congratulated 
on the advance that they have made in plant and flower culture, 
while whatever difference of opinion might exist as to the 
relative merits of the two cities in floriculture, there is one 
point in which Dublin holds, as it has ever done, its pre-emi- 
nence: if one turned from the tents to the promenade, there 
was no difficulty in seeing that in the beauty of the fair sex 


I have finally to thank many lovers of flowers who only know 
me by name for their hearty welcome, and had I the time it 
would have been no difficult matter to have made out my sum- 
mer amongst the invitations showered upon me.—D., Deal. 


ROSES. 


My experience of the effect of the last severe winter on the 
wood of Roses is the same as Mr. Peach’s. The old and very 
strong wood was destroyed, and the green twigs were compara- 
tively unharmed. The plants look well at present, and are in 
forward and abundant bud. 

As no one has answered Mr, Peach’s question about Souvenir 
de Poiteau, I give my experience of it. I had only one little 
plant of it, about 10 inches high, ina pot. It produced seven 
or eight very nice blooms, presenting a level appearance, with 
nicely-arranged petals. At the fall I received two fine plants 
on the Manetti stock which testified its vigorous growth: hence 
I recommended it. 

I have not bloomed the following, but they look very pro- 
mising—viz., Comtesse d’Oxford, Paul Neron, Madame W. 
The growth, foliage, and 
buds of the first are fine. In due time I shall be able to speak 
of these and others. Louis Van Houtte, if it is a good grower, 
is very choice, I think Mdlle. Eugénie Verdier, very sub- 


stantial in the petals, will be one of the best of the new light- 


coloured. ones. It is a good grower, and free bloomer.— 
W. FE. Rapciyrre. 


TRAPPING WOODLICE—EFFECTS OF LAST 
WINTERS FROSTS. 


Axout twelve months ago some one wrote in ‘‘ our Journal’’ 
to say that a bell-glass plunged in soil up to the rim, with a 
sliced potato at the bottom, was a good trap for woodlice. I 
have to thank the writer for the information. I have at the 
present time, in a hotbed, some hundreds crawling about in 
the bell-glass. They cannot get out if the inside of the glass 
is clean. My pans used to be nearly cleared of the seedlings, 
now they are not injured by the woodlice. 

The sharpest frost we had here (near Wallingford) was on 
the night of the 24th of December, the thermometer (Negretti’s) 
on a south wall, at 4 feet from the ground, went down to only 
5° above zero. 

Broceolis laid down were all killed. They were Snow’s 
Winter, Chappel’s Cream, and Wilcove Late. Portugal Cab- 
bages, which I thought the most tender of the tribe, were un+ 
injured, while Sayoys adjoining, with firm heads, were destroyed. 
Those partly closed were uninjured. Brussels Sprouts and Buda 
Kale were not injured. Cauliflowers under hand-lights covered 
with straw were all killed. Some of the same potted andina 


April 27, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


303 


ground vinery, with litter over them, were safe. Autumn- 
sown Cabbages were nearly all killed. Celery covered with 
litter was frozen to the roots, while some planted more deeply 
in a neighbouring garden came out sound. Hammersmith 
Hardy Lettuces were killed. A few stray ones starving on a 
piece of-poor soil stood well, and are now fine. Tripoli Onious 
and Spinach were not injured. Antirrhinums, Sweet Williams, 
Golden Pyrethrum, Clarkia, Silene, Wallflowers, &c., are un- 
injured. Limnanthes Douglasii, Sedum ceruleum, and Pampas 
Grass were all killed. Laurels and other shrubs are not in- 
jured. Daring the frost there was scarcely any wind.—J. EH. 


PRIMULA AMGNA AND ITS CULTURE. 


I wise to call the attention of your readers to this lovely plant. 
i know of none more beautiful at this season of the year to 
decorate a greenhouse or conservatory. Like other varieties 
of Primula it is a compact-growing plant, but the flower-stems 
xige well above the foliage, lifting their blooms about 6 inches 
lear of the leaves, and thus showing them off to the greatest 
advantage, 

The flowers are large in size, deep rose-coloured, from twelve 
to twenty radiating from the top of each stem; and as the 
Aower-stems are produced in great profusion, there is a com- 
plete sheet of bloom, carried well above the foliage, which cannot 
Yail to strike the eye of everyone who may enter the house 
where the plants stand. I have in 6-inch pots a number of 
plants with from sixteen to twenty flower-stems on each, pre- 
senting a mass of colour which could not be obtained from any 
other plant. Better still, these plants are nearly if not quite 
hardy. Mine have been keptin a cold frame all winter without 
any covering, and at Christmas, when the thermometer was 
down to zero on several occasions, the soil in the pots was fre- 
quently as hard as the pots themselves. Notwithstanding this, 
as the warmer days of February came in the plants began to 
push through the soil (they lose their leaves in autumn) 
strongly and vigorously, and during the last four or five weeks 
they have been quite gorgeous. I would strongly advise anyone 
swho has a greenhouse or conservatory to furnish with flowering 
plants to obtain a stock of this lovely Primula, from which he 
will secure a maximum of effect with a minimum of labour. 

My mode of treatment is simple in the extreme. Just when 
the plants are pushing through the goil in February, I divide 
gach into two or three pieces or clumps, and pot them in 6-iach 
pots ; in these they remain until they have done flowering, and 
then they are shifted into 8 or 9-inch pots according to their 
‘strength, and they are left to grow all the summer. In spring 
they are again divided as before, or they may be left in the 
larger pots to bloom where there are room and convenience for 
large masses to stand, and then the effect they produce is 
beyond what can be described on paper. They stand in a cold 
frame all the year round, except just when they are in flower. 
"W-hen removed to the greenhouse or conservatory they must 
be placed in the coolest part of it, otherwise they will become 
drawn. Anyone following these simple directions cannot fail 
to be rewarded by masses of lovely flowers.—THomAs JoNES, 
Gardener to J. E, Taylor, Esq., Didsbury. 


USES OF THE POTATO PLANT. 


Can you tell me if the Potato shaw when boiled is unwhole- 
ome? I was some few years in Bermuda, where vegetables 
were very scarce. I had an experienced cook, who used to pick 
off the tops of the Potato shaws just as one pinches off the tops 
of Broad Beans, boiled them, and served them like Spinach, 
and I thought them very nice, but I have been afraid to use 
them since those days.—TrNn-yEars ReaprER. 


[Weknow from published statements that the tops of Potato 
‘stems have been used as « culinary vegetable in the mode you 
mention. As the berries, sap, and sprouted tubers contain 
solanin, a narcotic poison, we should not willingly partake of 
the tops even when boiled, although we are aware that boiling 
effects great chemical changes in vegetable produce. Another 

. correspondent asks ‘‘ What is the best mode of utilising the 
stems and leaves of Potatoes?’ We reply, Use them as a 
menure. Dug into vacant ground they impart to it more 
potash than most other vegetable manures. A soft fibre, and 
ee as flax, has been obtained in Austria from the stems.— 

DS. | 


Myosoris pissirzrLora.—Having seen such flaming accounts 
of this novelty, I procured a packet of seeds, and this morning 


(April 21st) I observe some flowers opening of a pinkish colour. 
I send you a sprig, and also one of Myosotis sylvatica, which 
seems to me the better as well as the earlier.—G. S. 


THE CUCUMBER DISEASE. 


Tur remarks of Mr. Fish on Cucumber disease, at page 271, 
being so much to the purpose, I venture to ask him and others 
if they have ever experienced a similar disease in their Melons? 
Four or five years ago I was told such a complaint had mani- 
fested itself a few miles from here, but I did not see it, nor 
have the Cucumbers been affected in this neighbourhood to the 
extent they were twenty years ago, when I believe the disease 
first broke out. I well remember being first made acquainted 
with it in the spring and summer of 1850, when every plant 
we had became affected, and scarcely any of the fruit grown 
was fit for use, for when the disease fairly established itself, 
the young fruit not larger than one’s finger was attacked and 
rendered useless. 

The next year, 1851, 1 tried all the experiments with soils 
which I could think of to arrest the progress of the disease, 
for it was as destructive out of doors as under glass, and I em- 
ployed many things which might be considered extreme re- 
medies, as soot, lime, charcoal dust, cinder ashes, and all 
descriptions of soils, thinking I might hit on something that 
might be serviceable, but all to no purpose. Some of the 
mixtures, as might be expected, only resulted in a more weakly 
vlant, which the sooner succumbed to the disease. Like Mr. 
Fish, I gave up the contest with it almost in despair, and the 
winter following I did not attempt growing any Cucumbers. 
Strange to say, my plants had very little, if any, disease in the 
following year, 1852, neither have they been visited with it 
since to any extent; but I had sufficient experience of it 
to confirm all Mr. Fish says of its refusing to yield to any 
remedy. 

I do not recollect of the foliage being so much affected as . 
Mr. Fish has described. With me a sort of amber-coloured 
jelly-looking matter issued from each of the spines, or the 
places where the spines ought to have been, and enlarged from 
the size of a mere drop into the dimensions of a boy’s marble, 
being partly embedded in the fruit, rendering the whole a dis- 
gusting mass of sores; and I think in our case the foliage was 
not much affected, but my memory may be at fault, neither do 
I wish it to be refreshed by a fresh acquaintance with the evil. 
I can confirm all Mr. Fish’s remarks as to the cultivator being 
powerless in arresting it. In this respect it resembles the 
Potato disease; both are alike intractable, no one being able 
to say he can master the latter any more than he can the 
former. At the same time it is well to try experiments. My 
opinions at the time were, that the disease was highly infectious, 
and that until all traces of it were stamped out, as in the more 
vecent case of rinderpest, there was no hope of a remedy, for 
I tried sufficient experiments in the way of soil, and I can 
hardly think the plants could be fed with the same juices under 
all the conditions to which they were subjected. Atmospheric 
influences seem also incompatible with a complaint raging at 
all times of the year, for it was as fatal to the winter produce 
as to the out-door crop in summer, soil from a distance did 
not lessen the evil, and the most robust kind of ridge Cucum- 
ber placed on a hotbed under a frame was as liable to the 
disease as any other. The idea was entertained at the time 
that the Cucumber had been bred too fine (as the expression 
goes), and I tried the reverse course of treatment. 

If itis any consolation to those now suffering from the Cu- 
cumber disease to know that others have been baffled in com- 
bating it in times gone by, I acknowledge myself one. Em- 
ployers must be unreasonable in attributing the failure of crop 
to the want of skill on the part of their gardeners, for we have 
only to look to the Potato for an example of what little avail 
the united researches of the most learned men in the kingdom 
have been in averting the disease, for although it is not so 
destructive every year as it was soon after its first appearance, 
the comparative feebleness of its attacks is not due to any 
help from professors of science, but to those natural agencies 
which I hope will in like manner check, if not remove, the 
Cucumber disease.—J. Rozson. 


THE COMPASS PLANT. 
Tur fact that the leaves of the Compass Plant always turn 
their edges north and south has long been known to the settlers 
and hunters on the prairies of the Far West, who, when lost 


304 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ April 27, 1871. 


on a dark night, obtain their bearings by feeling the position of 
the leaves. Longfellow mentions it in ‘‘ Hvangeline ” :— 
“Took at this delicate plant, that lifts its head from the meadow, 
See how its leaves all point to the north, as true as the magnet; 
It is a Compass Plant,” &c. 

Tho plant is, however, coarse and stout, and far from ‘ deli- 
cate” and ‘ fragile,’ while the leaves are, in reality, vertical, 
and present their edges north and south. The true cause of 
this so-called ‘ polarity” is the subject of a short article by 
Mr. Witney in the American Naturalist, from which it appears 
that from the statements of numerous observers there can be 
little doubt that on the prairies the leaves of this plant do 
assume a meridional bearing; and the cause assigned for this 
by Dr. Gray is undoubtedly the correct one—viz., that both 
sides of the leaf are equally sensitive to light. It only remains 
to be shown what renders its two sides thus equally sensitive. 
It is well known that two sides of a leaf usually differ in struc- 
ture, that the number of stomata, or breathing-holes, is much 
greater on the under than the upper surface, and that the tissue 
of the upper is Genser than that of the lower stratum. As the 
two surfaces of the leaf of Silphium laciniatum appeared some- 
what alike, Dr. Gray suggested that it would be well to examine 
the leaf microscopically in order to see if it corresponded with 
ordinary leaves in the 2bove respects, or with truly vertical 
leaves, the two surfaces of which are usually similar, or nearly 
so; also to compare with it the leaves of other species of 
Silphium, in which no tendency to assume a north and south 
position is observed. The results of this examination gave the 
number of the stomata of the Compass Plant leaf as exactly the 
same on both surfaces, while those of three other species varied 
considerably. The cellular structure of the leaf of S. lacinia- 
tum appears to be homogeneous throughout, and these observa- 
tions show ‘‘that the meridional position of the edges of the 
leaf is to be explained by the structure of the two surfaces, 
which being identical, at least in the important respect of the 
number of the stomata, seek an equal exposure to the light ; 
the mean position of equal exposure, in northern latitudes, 
being that in which the edges are presented north and south, 
the latter obtaining the maximum, the former the minimum of 
illumination.” —(English Mechanic and Chemist.) 


TREES AND SHRUBS versus HARES AND 
RABBITS. 


ANOTHER winter is past, and it has left its traces behind in 
frozen, destroyed vegetables, and browned shrubs. There are 
other sources of trouble to a gardener besides that caused by 
the severity of frost to the tenderest subjects of his charge, 
and amongsi them may be mentioned the damage done by 
hares and rabbits to trees and shrubs when the ground is for 
weeks covered with a deep mantle of saow. It is but natural 
that such animals should in a winter like the past have their 
appetites so sharpened by an enforced fast that they are glad 
to take what they would at other times disdain; cut off from 

their ordinary food by 2 deep and long-continued covering of 
' snow, they are compelled to take anything that will sustain 
their existence. I know it is the conviction of some, that hares 
and rabbits will eat the shoots and the bark of every tree 
coming in their wey in times of severe frost and snow. Such, 
however, I have not found confirmed by fact. With us there 
axe trees and shrubs the shoots and bark of which the hares 
and rabbits eat, and there are others which they do not touch. 
One of your correspondents, in the autumn of last year; cau- 
tioned your readers against being ‘“ misled by lists of trees and 
shrubs not liable to be attacked by hares and rabbits,” alleging 
that there are none, or very few, they will not eat in severe 
weather. Now, as I had giyen in this Journal a list of trees 
and shrubs that hares and rabbits had not interfered with, I 
felt it incumbent on me at the time to say that your corre- 
spondent’s experience was totally at variance with mine, but I 
thought it better’ to wait and see what another winter would 
do, and having had an unusually sharp one, yet not keen 
enough to make hares and rabbits eat every tree and shrub they 
could get at, Ihave the greater confidence in approaching this 
subject. 

Trees and Shrubs of which Hares and Rabbits have eaten the 
shoots and gnawed the bark during the winter of 1870-71; Snow on 
the ground fifty days ; greatest cold 8°.—Apples and Crabs; in 
many places Apple trees of considerable size and age have been 
completely destroyed. Laburnums, even those gas-tarred, were 
clean barked. Poplar, Ash, Oak, Lime, Larch, Scotch Fir, 
Spruce, Austrian Pine, the leeflets eaten close in, but neither 


the points of the shoots nor the bark taken. Holly, some of 
the variegated, 6feet high, cut down to 18 inches; leaves, 
branches, and alleaten; nota tree of less than ten years’ growth 
left without barking as high up as the hares and rabbits could 
reach, and as low as the padded snow line. Laurustinus cut 
off to the snow line, the bare shoots being as well done as. 
possible. Common Laurels shared the same fate as the Laurus- 
tinus, and Aucubas show only below the snow; Broom taken 
entirely, and Thorns, Chinese Arbor-Vite, Weigela rosea, Coto- 
neaster frigida, and C. Simmondsii. 

Trees and Shrubs which Hares and Rabbits have not eaten or 
barked.—Beech, common, purple, and copper; Syeamore, 
Horsechestnut, Bird Cherry (Cerasus Padus), Corsican Pine 
(Pinus Laricio), Portugal Laurel, common and Irish Yew, Box, 
Furze, common and double; Rhododendron, Berberis Aquifo- 
lium, Pinus excelsa, P. Cembra, Cupressus Lawsoniana, which 
makes a dense spreading tree in exposed situations, Azaleas, 
Lilacs, Snowberry, Ribes sanguineum (the Black Carrant 
spreads here abundantly, and is never touched), Gooseberry, 
Blackthorn, Sweet Briar, common Berberry, Wellingtonia 
gigantea, Cedrus atlantica, Pinus Strobus, common and scarlet- 
berried Elder, Birch, and Huonymus europzas. 

The Bramble and Briar have been highly extolled for their 
covert-making. We bad specimens of these, with Blackthorn. 
The game avoid rather than choose them; rabbits take to the 
Furze ; pheasants rise from the Portugal Laurel and Cupressus;. 
hares take to the former, and pariridges select the foot of a 
Pinus excelsa for nesting ia preference to the vaunted Bramble, 
Briar, and coarse grass covert. Not a hare, rabbit, nor bird 
frequents them one tithe so mush as they do the evergreen 
coverts; they may take to Brambles and Briars, where there is. 
none else, but give them a chance of an evergreen one with its 
warmth and dryness, and ihe greater opportunity of keeping. 
out of sight, and it will soon be apparent which is best. In 
winter Brambles and Briars afford no shelter to game, as 1s 
evidenced by the few birdsfound inthem. Besides their in- 
utility as covert, Brambles and Hazels are only a means of 
causing to be disturbed that quiet which game needs for its 
continuance at a given place. Game cares nothing about the 
nut of the Hazel, and the fruit of the Berberry does not re- 
main half so long’ as Brambles on bushes where pheasants 
are. For its formidable character the Canadian Goose- 
berry is superior to the Briar, and pheasants are very fond of 
the berries; end the Sweet Briar does so well, and lends so- 
sweet a charm to rural walks, that its presence deserves to be 
more apparent than it is. Game can, no doubt, be had by 
planting, or rather retaining, a primeval vegetation, but there. 
is no reason why coverts should not possess interest and 
beauty for the eye of the sportsman, as well as game for his 
skill.—G. ABBEY. 


ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S MEETINGS. 


Av the second March meeting of this Society, held on the 20th of 
that month, the Rev. Leonard Jenyns (with reference to the observa- 
tions recorded in the Society’s proceedings of last autumn relative to 
the appearance of large swarms of minute flies—Chlorops lineata— 


‘in the Provost’s Lodge, King’s College, Cambridge) stated that he had 


published an account of a precisely similar swarm in the same rooms 
thirty-nine years ago (Loudon’s Mag. Nat. Hist., vol. v., p. 302), and 
that he accepted the opinion that it was with a view to hybernation 
that they had entered the house. : 

Mr. Albert Miiller made some observations on specimens of the: 
Meadow-brown Butterfly, Cenonympha Satyrion, taken in different 
parts of Switzerland, which he found to exhibit a general tendency to. 
variation, without such variation being restricted to the opposite sides. 
of the mountain ranges, as had been assumed by Mr. Butler at the 
last meeting of the Society. Mr. Miiller also exhibited an undescribed 
species of gall found by Lord Walsingham on a Carex near Thetford, 
Norfolk, which was of an oblong form and the size of a grain of Wheat, 
but from which he had not succeeded in obtaining the perfect insect. 
Mr. Verrall exhibited a specimen of a Syrphideons fly (Pipizanoctiluca), 
haying some extraneous matter attached to the head, which was re- 
garded cither as a fungoid growth or as the pollinia of an Orchis. 

Mr. C. O. Waterhouse communicated a paper on a new genus an@ 
species of Stag Beetles (Apterocylus honolulensis) from the Sandwich 
Islands, allied to the genus Colophon, MWestw. _ 

Mr. Vernon Wollaston communicated a memoir “On Additions to 
the Atlantic Coleoptera,” consisting of descriptions of thirty-three 
additional species, of which sixteen were new, thus bringing up the 
total number of Beetles found in these oceanic islands to 1480. In 
the introduction to this memoir the author entered into an examina- 
of tion the question of the origin of the Beetle fauna of these islands 
with reference to the recently-published views of Mr. Wallace and Mr.. 
Andrew Murray, and which he/maintained had resulted from a former 


April 27, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


305 


general land connection between these various groups of islands, as 
well as with south-western Europe, which had subsequently been 
broken up by some gigantic catastrophe; whereas Mr. Wallace con- 
tended that they were the result of atmospheric phenomena, such as 
storms and hurricanes, which, however, Mr. Wollaston asserted were 
of very rare occurrence in that part of the Atlantic, the wind blowing 
as a moderate breeze almost uninterruptedly from the north-east, with 
an occasional storm from the south, sufficient to account for the intro- 
duction of the few African forms amongst the insects, but not sufficient 
to have caused so large a per-centage of Mediterranean forms as were 
exhibited. Mr. Bates, in the subsequent discussion upon the paper, 
objected to the idea of ‘reat catastrophes,” such as would have pro- 
duced a sinking of the depth of the ocean between the Azores and 
Europe to the depth of 12 or 15,000 feet, considering that geological 
changes were extremely slow in their operation. A protracted discus- 
Sion upon this subject took place, in which Messrs. Wallace and A. 
Murray also took part. 


Tue April meeting of this Society was held at Burlington House o0 
the 3rd inst., the President, Mr. A. R. Wallace, being in the chair 
Among the donations received by the Society since the last meeting 
was a valuable Report of the Fruit-growers’ Association of Ontario for 
1870, published at Toronto at the beginning of the present year. Mr. 
Holdsworth sent a series of carefully executed drawings of Chinese 
Moths, some of which exhibited great similarity to English species. 
Mr. F. Smith exhibited and described several singular. specimens of 
well-known British bees and other Hymenopterous insects, in which 
one side of the body and its corresponding limbs were of one sex, whilst 
the other side and limbs were of the opposite sex. One of these indi- 
viduals was the common honey bee, and it was suggested that this was 
especially interesting in connection with the lately observed facts rela- 
tive to the parthenogenesis of Apis mellifica. Other instances of 
Hymenoptera similarly monstrous were mentioned by Mr. MacLachlan 
and Professor Westwood. The last-named gentleman stated in refer- 
ence to a communication received by Mr. A. Miiller from M. Lichten- 
stein, of Montpellier, that he had not considered the insect which has 
recently proved so destructive to Vines in France and England, to be 
identical with the Vine insect described in America by Mr. Riley, the 
state entomologist of Missouri. 

Mr. A. Miiller communicated a memoir by Herr Gredier on the 
distribution of Coleopterous insects at various heights on the Alps, 
showing that Beetles taken at equal heights on the opposite sides of 
the mountains exhibited no difference, thus opposing the suggestion of 
Mr. Butler made at a previous meeting with reference to differences 
in the individuals of Cenonympha Satyrion taken at Kandersteg and 
Leukerbad. Mr. Lewis mentioned the injurious effects of Lepisme 
upon the covers of books, those insects attacking everything to which 
paste had been applied; and Mr. Horne stated that in India they were 
one of the greatest pests, gnawing the paper from the walls of apart- 
ments, &e 

A paper was read by Mr. Lewis on certain alterations which had 
recently been made in the classification of the principal groups of 
nocturnal Lepidoptera, which he considered not only as injudicious 
and unnatural in themselves, but as censurable from their having been 
introduced in mere labelling catalogues, without any explanation of 
the reasons on which they had been made. He also strongly objected 
to the practice, which has recently become common, of rejecting the 
name of well-known species which had been in general acceptation, in 
favour of names published previously in obscure publications, and 
which had never been generally adopted. He insisted that the well- 
‘mown legal maxim, Communis error facit jus—i.c., an error accepted 
by all the world becomes a law—is as applicable in scientific nomen- 
clature as it is in ethics. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


PRoPoseD INTERNATIONAL FRuriT AND FrowEerR SHow At Guas- 
‘cow.—A meeting of the Directors of the Glasgow and West 
of Scotland Horticultural Society was held on the 19th inst. The 
question of an International Fruit and Flower Show, to be held 
at Glasgow in September, 1872, was considered. The opinion 
of the meeting was that the time had now arrived when it was 
necessary for the interests of horticulture in the west of Scot- 
jand, and for the reputation of Glasgow in horticultural matters, 
that such an international show be held at Glasgow. The 
object is to bring thither collections of fruit from not only all 
parts of the United Kingdom, but also from all foreign coun- 
tries with which the Clyde ports have commerce. It was ulti- 
mately resolved that a special fund of at least £1000 be raised 
for this purpose; and a large and influential committee, com- 
prising many of the leading gentlemen in the city and neigh- 
bourhood, was appointed to organise and mature the scheme, 
with Mr. A. B. Stewart (of Messrs. Stewart & Macdonald), as 
convener of committee. 


—— Dears or Mr. W.B. Pacre.—Gardeners are a long-lived 
race, and another evidence is afforded by Mr. Page. He died 
aged eighty-one at Hill, Southampton, on the 12thinst. He 


had long carried on an extensive trade in that town, and until 
a few years since was much consulted as a landscape gardener. 
As long ago as 1818 he published a very well-arranged '‘ Pro- 
dromus, a general Nomenclature of all Plants, indigenous and 
exotic, cultivated in the Southampton Botanic Garden.” It 
contains much useful information relative to culture, soil, time 
of flowering, &c., and it is stated on the title-page to be ‘‘ By 
William Bridgewater Page (from Lee & Kennedy’s, Hammer- 
smith), Nurseryman, Seedsman, and Florist (by special appoint- 
meni), to Prince Leopold and the late Princess Charlotte,” and 
that includes the whole of his biography known to us. 

Tue culture of Bamboo for paper-making and other pur- 
poses is being promoted by the Government of Central India. 
The Indian Government is buying land in the hill district of 
the Neilgheries for a spice plantation. Col. Boddam has pro- 
posed the cultivation of the Sunflower in Mysore. It is very 
successful in France. Government has sent out six more 
Scotch gardeners for experimental colton-growing. These men 
have answered very well.—(Nature.) 


Tue Broom (Sarothamnus scopariue) is extremely 
abundant in Madeira, but is supposed to have been originally 
introduced to the island. It is now sown extensively on the 
mountains for the purpose of being cut down for ‘firing, or burnt 
on the spot every five to seven years to fertilise the ground. 
The twigs and more slender branches are alsoused commonly 
as withs for binding bundles of faggots, brushwood, Fern, &c. ; 
and numbers of country people, especially young girls and 
children, residing within reach of Funchal, gain a livelihood by 
bringing daily into the town bundles of broom for use in heat- 
ing ovens, &c. The fine and delicate basket-work peculiar to 
Madeira is manufactured from the slender peeled twigs of this 
plant. Mr. Lowe speaks of a variety with pure white flowers 
which occurs on this island.—(Nature.) 

Tue Eucauyeti, or Gum-trees of Australia, are well- 
known for their hard wood as well as for the oils and gums 
yielded by many of them. Some ofthe species have been intro-| 
duced and successfully grown in different parts of Hurope, and 
their products may become, ere long, recognised articles of im- 
port. At the present time large quantities of sticks of a species 
of Eucalyptus.are imported into England from Algeria, and are 
made into walking sticks. During the Great Exhibition in 
Paris in 1867, the leaves of Eucalyptus globulus were made 
into cigars, and recommended as being very efficient in aiding 
digestion.—(Nature.) 

—— Tue Pricsiy Poppy (Argemone mexicana), originally 
from the New World, has become naturalised throyghout the 
tropics and sub-tropies of both hemispheres. In the West 
Indies, where it is very abundant, it is called Fico del inferno, 
the reason for this name being, according to Gerarde, ‘‘ because 
of his fruit, which doth much resemble a Figge in shape and 
bignesse, but so full of sharp and venemous prickles that who- 
soever had one of them in his throat doubiless it would send 
him packing either to heaven or to hell.” Barham, however, 
gives, as an explanation, a statement that the seeds, ‘‘ being 
much stronger than opium,” are ‘‘ enough to send any that 
should take them wilfully to inferno ;” but this is much ex- 
aggerated. In India it is now abundantly naturalised in the 
eastern part of the Punjab, and is spreading over fresh districts 
year by year. It is not altogether a useless addition to the 
Indian flora, as near Delhi an oil is extracted from the seeds 
which is used for burning, as well as in the treatment of chronic. 
sores and eruptions.—(Nature.) 


NEW MODE OF GRAFTING. 


Turis method of graiting is a modification of the ‘ perfected 
graft’ of Dubreuil, and has the advantage of being easily per- 
formed when the bark of the stock will not easilyrun. Itis 
especially intended for the case of the scion being small as 
compared with the stock. 

The head of the stock is cut off by two slanting cuts, meeting 
in a ridge on one side of the centre, then a thin slip is cut 
down from the smaller half (jig. a, 1). This cutis made by plac- 
ing the edge of the knife parallel to the ridge on the top of the 
stock, a little way within the junction of the bark and wood, so 
as to cut down a slip having a smal! portion of wood in it. Next 
by another longitudinal cut divide the slip into two nearly 
equal portions (jig. A, 2), but leaving them on the stock. 

The scion is prepared as shown in the jigs. 1,2,and3. A 
cut is made with a long slope, so as to make the end of the 


306 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 27, 1873. 


scion quite a thin wedge. Then at the thick end of this wedge 
@ cross cut is made of the same slope as the top of the scion, 
and going fully half way through, and by an upward cut a slice 
is taken off to meet the cross cut, so making this end of the 
scion still thinner. Lastly, a very thin slip is cut off one 


edge, as represented by figs.p2and 3. This last cut should 
be at a right angle to the previous one, and leave the portion 
of the wood exposed of the same thickness as that of the slip 
of the stock. : 

The fitting of the scion to the stock is shown in jig.c. The 
cut edge of the scion lies against the face of one-half of the 


slip, and the other half of the slip is brought over the scion, 
and then, as usual, the whole is firmly bound together with 
bast, and the joint ccvered either with clay or grafting wax. 

Like all operations of this kind, the description is most 
easily followed by taking a small branch and cutting it as 
directed. The graft is very quickly made, and it will be seen 
that almost the whole of the exposed liber and alburnum of 
the scion must meet its fellow in the stock. 

In all grafting, three or four buds should be on the scion. 
In the figures the upper part of the scion has been suppressed ; 
one bud will be seen to be in the centre of the slip, and one 
about half an inch above the top of the stock. I am quite 
convinced that in all cases the final leader of the young tree 
should be the shoot from one of these two buds. The upper 
ones will start first, and as soon as they have made six or seven 
leaves the points of these upper shoots should be nipped off, 
and then the shoot from either of the two lower eyes encou- 
raged to grow as long as possible. For Apples and Pears this 
is not necessary, but advantageous; for stone fruits generally, 
absolutely necessary. Of course cut 2, fig. A, may be made 


first, and this met by thrusting the point of the knife down, so 
as to cut only one half of the slip; but this is not so easily 
done, and the knife point is very apt to get into a finger. Ease, 
speed, and goodness of junction are the advantages of this form 
of graft.—W. Kinesey. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 
KITCHEN GARDEN. 

ContINvE the trenching of ground as it becomes vacant, and 
during the prevalence of dry weather keep it well forked. The 
young plants of Asparagus will now be ready for planting im 
beds, which it is hoped have been kept well prepared; let the 
roots be carefully lifted with a strong fork, and after planting 
give a good supply of water to settle the soil abont them. Sow 
Early Purple and Myatt’s White Cape Broccoli, also the Wal- 
cheren for late autumn use. Sow a full crop of Red Beet, if 
not already done. Prick out the seedling plants of the earliest- 
sown Brussels Sprouts and Savoys, in order to have them stocky 
for final planting. Draw earth well up to the most forward 
Cauliflowers, and give plentiful applications of liquid manure. 
Continue to prick out Celery; this must always be kept well 
supplied with water, rapid and continual growth being essential 
in its cultivation, if it be required large. It is found by ex- 
perience that if the earliest-sown plants receive any check from 
drought, the chances are ten to one that they run toseed. Sow 
now a full crop of Dwarf Kidney Beans and Scarlet Runners, if 
it be preferable to sow in the open ground, instead of trans- 
planting, as recommended. In some soils wireworms are very 
apt to attack the cotyledons during germination; to remedy 
this, after the Beans are placed in the drills, water them over. 


with a liquid formed of one gallon of ammoniacal liquor from the 


gasworks, diluted with six or eight gallons of water, according. 
to the strength of the liquor; after which let them be covered 
with 2 inches of charred wood or refuse, and the ground levelled 
over them. The charred materials appear to be peculiarly 


agreeable to the plants, as they become of a most luxuriant- 


dark green, and are very prolific. Repeat the sowings of 
Lettuce of all sorts, and thin out and transplant those advanc- 
ing as occasion may require. Sowa good breadth of Turnips, 
the ground for which should be well dressed with wood ashes 
or charred refuse. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

“Do not take Nature by surprise,” is an old maxim, and 
may be well applied to the operation of disbudding fruit trees... 
Severe disbudding suddenly performed canses inactivity at the 
roots at the very period at which Nature has ordained the 
reverse. If anyone doubts, let him divest any plant of nearly 
all its young shoots, and observe the effect. Disbudding, there- 
fore, becomes a necessary but important operation, and if 
hurried through pressure of business, or neglected, evil effects 
will assuredly follow. See that the Peach trees are well bathed 


with tobacco water two evenings in succession, as soon as the- 


crop is set. Do not wait until you see the insects, make up 
your mind that there are some to come, and you will not be 
deceived. When the trees are quite out of bloom, apply the 
sulphur-and-clay mixture with a painter’s brush between every 
two shoots if possible; with two timely applications, no fear 
need be entertained of either the green fly or red spider for the 
whole summer. To form this mixture make thick clay water, 
add two handsful of sulphur and 2 ozs. of soft soap to each 
gallon, to make it adhere to the wall. When Vines have pushed 
eufficiently to enable us to distinguish the fruit-bearing shoots, 
let all superfluous ones be immediately removed. See that the 
soil is kept well pu verised about the roots of the trees, and that 
ell newly-planted trees are sufficiently mulched. 


FLOWER GARDEN. 

It is more than probable that where much planting was in- 
tended part of it may yet remain to be executed; some kinds. 
of evergreens may, however, yet be safely removed, taking the 
precautions to water them at first planting, and occasionally 
afterwards, to well mulch the surface, and to damp the foliage 
over in the evenings of dry days. These attentions, which are 
indispensable should dry weather occur, will enable late-planted 
evergreens to start in most cases freely. I haye found Hollies,, 
Portugal Laurels, Evergreen Oaks, Red Cedars, Arbor-Vitas, &., 
take root more freely now than when planted earlier in the 
spring, when autumn planting cannot be effected. Continue. 
to prick out into small pots annuals raised in frames, and 
harden such as are established preparatory to their being 
turned out in the open ground. Those which have been potted 
some time should have another shift rather than allow them to: 


307 


April 27, 1871. ] 


become stunted in their pots. Finish, if not already done, the 
pruning of those summer Roses which were left unpruned for 
the purpose of retarding their bloom. Insects, especially the 
green fly and rose caterpillar, will now be making their ap- 
pearance in the rosery; destroy them without delay. The 
trees are easily cleared of the former by syringing them with 
weak tobaccc water, the latter must be picked off and de- 
stroyed with the hand. A vigilant eye is requisite to detect 
them, as these pests carry on their ravages unseen. If the 
amateur is not certain as to the safety of his Carnations and 
Picotees from the attacks of wireworms, which will sometimes 
escape the scrutiny of the most vigilant, I would advise him to 
cut a Potato into four, and into each quarter a stick should be 
inserted. These portions of Potato should then be buried just 
beneath the soil. Should the pest be still lurking in the com- 
post they will be found an unfailing trap. Top-dress the beds 
of Pinks with rich, well-decomposed compost. Pansies will 
also be the better for a similar application. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

The conservatory plants are now making active growth, and 
should be liberally supplied with water. Those growing in 
prepared borders must be frequently examined to see that the 
roots are kept sufficiently moist. Take the opportunity of an 
early hour in the morning to give a good washing with the 
syringe or engine to everything excepting the plants in bloom. 
The house will then become dry and enjoyable by the forenoon; 
frequently clean over the borders, remove decayed leaves and 
flowers as they occur, let the paths, stone curbs, shelves, &c., 
be washed frequently, that the house may present a fresh and 
orderly appearance at all times. These directions should be 
enforced as far as possible in all plant houses. More gir must 
now be given, and directly the nights become warmer allow a 
little air to remain. This low night temperature will do much 


to favour the growth of short-jointed wood, which in a house of | 
this description, requiring to be frequently shaded, is difficult | 
to obtain, and at the same time it will prolong the period of | 


the bloom of the inmates. Hybrid Indian Rhododendrons and 
Chinese Azaleas will now be in great beauty, and every care 
should be taken to preserve the bloom from damp and drip, 
which materially injure them. Supovly the plants liberally with 
water at the roots, as during their blooming season they re- 
quire large quantities. 
will now either be in bloom or approaching that state. Air 
previous directions about currents of air. The great points in 
flowering plants are, in addition to a profuse show of bloom, 
clear and bright colours, and healthy foliage. The last two are 
indicative of good health, and, consequently, of good enlture, 
and are always additional recommendations to a plant. Abund- 
ance of air, a well-managed system of shading, sufficient to 
bring up the colour of the flowers without drawing the foliage 
of the plant, and proper attention to watering, &e., are pointsin 
plant cultivation which are rarely taught either by calenders or 
books, but in which a little practice and discrimination will be 
necessary, to enable plants to be bloomed in the perfection we 
see them at the great exhibitions. Plants out of bloom should 
be placed where they can enjoy a rest for a short time before 
the new growth commences, or they break weakly. It should 
be remembered that when a plant flowers profusely the powers 
of the plant are much weakened, and a lapse of time after 
blooming, longer or shorter, according to the habit of the plant, 
is necessary to enable it to recover its wasted energies previous 
to forming a new growth.—W. Kranr. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Waar a week, not only of April showers but of April down- 
pours! The changes in the pastures, gardens, and fields in 
this district are wonderful. All seemed suffering as much 
from dryness as we might have expected to have seen them do 
in the dog days. It soon became too wet to proceed with some 
work, but, then, there was plenty to be done under shelter; 
and how delightful it was to hear the rain pouring into tanks 
and reservoirs ! 

The general work has been almost a repetition of that of 
previous weeks’ notices, such as putting in successions of Peas, 
Beans, Lettuces, Radishes, and Turnips, and staking Peas, where, 
owing to Celery trenches, it was not necessary to trample on 
the ground; deferring hoeing among Carrots, Onions, &., 
until the ground was drier, as the rains have brought up legions 


Most Heaths and hardwooded plants | 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


| vantage. 


. - Bite Sopeys aya t thick. 
must now be admitted in large quantities, bearing in mind | Raa mama ee 


of tiny weeds which a scuffle with the Dutch hoe in a sunny 
day will soon settle. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

Pears are now opening their blooms, and a few hours of 
bright sun would do wonders for them and a very free bloom 
of Plums. We have never seen the Blackthorn so full of 
bloom as it is this season, and the Whitethorn seems equally 
promising. We have taken most of the laurel twigs fronr 
Apricot trees, but left a portion to break the foree of cold 
winds until the fresh Apricot leaves protect the fruit that has 
set very thickly. But for the rains we would have given a 
watering with sewage to the Apricot border, as it seemed dry, 
and the falling of the fruit we have often traced to too much 
dryness of the roots. Apricot roots like a fair amount of mois- 
ture, if it is not stagnant but passes freely. Peach trees will 
also delight in more moisture than they often receive. The 
extremes of dryness and wetness at the roots are the causes of 
many drawbacks, and so are coldness and want of action at the 
roots when the branchlets are exposed to a high temperature 
against a wall. No wonder when the leaves becomsa thin and 
sickly that hordes of insects assail them. One great advantage 
of sheeting in front of Apricot and Peach trees on walls is, 
that by keeping it on in bright days the opening of the bloom 
and wood buds is retarded, whilst the soil, being exposed, is 
gradually warmed. This warming of the soil and retarding 
the blossom is of quite as much importance as protecting the 
bloom from frost. Even in orchard houses where no heat is 
given, and where many things receive protection in winter by 
keeping the house rather close, a little retarding by shading 
and free air-giving in spring will often be attended with ad- 
In such a case it is safest to give an impetus to 
growth and early ripening after the fruit is safely set and 
swelling freely. We gave a good watering to all fruit trees in 
pots, using weakened sewage water. It is about ten days 
since they had a watering previously. Bat little water will be 
wanted in dull weather, before the swelling of the fruit and 
free growth demand more moisture. Some fly has made its 
appearance, but in the more forward house, the fruit being we)! 
set, a good and repeated syringing with clear soft-soap water 
has almost put the insects out of sight. Isis difficult to smoke. 
open orchard houses. 

We forget whether we mentioned that a great many of the 
fruit in the Peach house dropped when quite small, leaving a 
We expected this, as all the time the 
trees were in bloom they scarcely had an hour of the sun al- 
together. These young fruit, when cut open, were all black 
at the core, showing a defect in the process of fertilisation. In 
the first orchard house the free setting could not be thicker, 
but will cause great trouble in thinning, and there is no sign of 
a fruit dropping; but then these trees had days of bright 
sunshine when in bloom. 

Strawberries for the last eight days have missed the bright 
sunbeams. Even with diminished water and rather more air, 
the flavour cannot be so good. Melons have been trained and 
stopped in the mode detailed in previous volumes, but all such 


| beds are sadly crammed with other little things at present. 


Our earth-pits and trenches are giving us more room under 
glass. There is, however, much labour involved in so much 
moving. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Besides mowing and cleaning when suitable, we have com- 
menced making ready the flower beds, by regulating edgings, 
where they are to be permanent, as all that expedites work at 
planting-out time. We also had the beds that are empty 
rough-dug again. The chief work of the week, however, has 
been cleaning and potting Ferns and fine-foliaged plants for 
corridors, &c., the great difficulty being to get light enough for 
them for a few weeks. Many plants succeed very well under 
Vines, until the shade becomes too dense, and then if not 
moved they will be unduly elongated. 

The other chief work was getting bedding plants out of boxes 
into earth-pits, &c., preparatory to planting out in beds a 
month hence. When hard driven we have planted out of the 
boxes ia which the plants were struck, but they seldom did so 
well, or took root at once so freely, or made such a quick dis- 
play as when we gave them this intermediate treatment, and 
lifted them with less or more of a ball attached, the fresh roots 
ready to go at once into the pulverised soil of the beds. The 
labour is thus increased, but we think the results pay well for 
it. It is astonishing what a month of more room will do for 
such plants, if they axe protected from frost and cutting east. 
Winds. 


308 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ April 27, 1871. 


We also put in our last batch of Coleus and Iresine, as we 
think then we shall have enough to use them freely, and cut- 
tings now will form fine plants six weeks hence. Few plants 
beat the Coleus for colour, but to have it good the plants must 
be well-established and not turned out until the first or second 
week in June. We have prepared a place under glass to re- 
ceive some hundreds of potted plants. We shall most likely 
plant a large number out in a bed under glass, as both Coleus 
and Iresines make plenty of fibrous bushy roots, and, there- 
fore, will lift well. The great inducement ito us to turn out 
bedding plants in beds, turf-pits, &c., is, that with the excep- 
tion of the first watering at planting, the plants rarely need 
any more until they are lifted and taken to the beds. In pots, 
the watering must be frequent.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED. 


George White, 5, Moss Street, Paisley.—Catalogue of Florists’ 
Flowers, Greenhouse, Herbaceous, and Bedding-out Plants. 


} TO CORRESPONDENTS. 


HEDAROMA TULIPIFERA (Hedaroma).—This is now called Genetyllis 
tulipifera. It is of the natural order Myrtacez. 


PrinE APPLE CULTURE (Ten-years Reader).—As you need instruction on 
the entire management, you had better buy “ The Pine Apple Manual.” 
You can have it iree by post if you enclose thirty-two postage stamps with 
your address. 


CoRDYLINE HELICONIFOLIA (East Susser).—This is one of the many 
synonymes of Cordylineterminalis. It isanativeofCeylon. The flowers 
are white. In “The Botanical Register,” pl. 1749, it is portraited and de- 
scribed under the name of Dracena terminalis, or Sandwich Island Tee 
Plant. There is a long description of it there, and in Ellis’s ‘* Polynesian 
Reszarches.” 

GILLYFLOWER (G. C.).— Although this name is now usuaily confined to 
species of the genus Matthiola, yet it is sometimes now, and was com- 
monly by the old herbalists, applied to species of Dianthus. 

CINERARIA CULTURE (4 Lady, Cardiganshire) —A communication in 
last week’s Journal probably contains the information you need. If not, 
write again, and state the directions you need; we shall readily reply. 

RosE Gruss—MaricHan Nieuw (Howarth Ashton).—The grubs are most 
probably one of the Rose weevils. There is hardly any way of getting 


rid of them except handpicking, but syringing with soft soap and tobacco | 
water will greatly help to keep them in check. The strong shoots of Maréchal | 


Niel have probably been injured by the same grub. If the shoots are cut 
off it will most likely be found that one of the weeyiijs has eaten down 


the centre of them. We have seen them eat as far as 5 or 6 inches down | 
the centre of the shoot,and whenever the top leaf turns black it will | 


generally be found that a grub has attacked it. Wecannot account for 
the Maréchal Niel not doing so well this year as last, unless the roots 
have gone too deep, and into a subsoil that does not suitit. We should 
advise surface-dressings to encourage the roots to keep to the surface. 


RosEs For Pots (M. H. B. L.).—Iwenty-four for Pot Culture: Alfred 
Colomb, Antoine Ducher, Charles Lefebvre, Comtesse de Chabrillant, 
Francois Louyat, John Hopper, Jules Margottin, Madame Victor Verdier, 
Marguerite de St. Amand, Monsieur Woolfield, Madame Ja Baronne de 
Rothschild, Monsieur Noman, Senateur Vaisse, Victor Verdier, Marquise 
de Castellane, Elie Morel, Marquise de Mortemart, Berthe Baron, 
Souvenir d’un Ami, Madame Willermoz, La Boule d’Or, Adrienne Chris- 
tophle, Gloire de Dijon, Marie Sisley. Twenty-four for Out-door Plani- 
ing: Alfred Colomb, Annie Wood, Charles Lefebvre, Duke of Edinburgh, 
Horace Vernet, La Duchesse de Morny, Madame Caillat. Mdile. Bonnaire, 
Marie Baumann, Monsieur Noman, Pierre Notting, Princess Mary of 


Cambridge, Abel Grand, Baroness Rothschild, Dr. Andry, Elie Morel, | 


John Hopper, Lord Macaulay, Madame Clémence Joigneaux, Marguerite 
de St, Amand, Mdlle. Marie Rady, Monsieur Woolfield, Senateur Vaisse, 
Xavier Olibo. Climbers: Gloire de Dijon, Céline Forestier, Climbing 
Devoniensis, Maréchal Niel, Triomphe de Rennes, Solfaterre. The 
aboye, except Gloire de Dijon, are tender, and requirea wall. Standards 
—Summer Roses : Charles Lawson, Coupe d’Hébé, Juno, Paul Perras, Paul 
Ricaut. Hardy Hybrid Perpetuals: Baronne Préyost, John Hopper, 
Madame Charles Crapelet, Victor Verdier, Général Jacqueminot, Antoine 
Ducher, Vicomte Vigier, William Griffiths. Bourbons as Standards: 
Baron Gonella, Louise Margottin, Michel Bonnet, Baronne de Noirmont, 
Louise Odier, Modéle de Perfection. 


CAMELLIA REPOTTING (Valtevareda).—Your plant now in flower and in 


growth we would not repot until the growth is complete—about June; and | 


we would not pot then if the plant is not in a very small pot, but leave 
it until next spring, and then pot before it begins to grow, irrespective of 
the flowering. The Camellia is best potted just before it begins to make 


fresh growth. All pottings afterwards should be confined to shifting into | 


Jarger pots without disturbing the ball. 


DAPHNE INDICA TREATMENT (EZ. S.).—Repot the plant now, and do not 
give a large shift, but remove any loose soil, and repot in as smalla pot 
as youcan. Provide good drainage. A compost of two parts sandy peat, 
one part leaf soil, one part turfy loam, with a-free admixture of sharp 
sand, will growit well. If leggy, it may be cut down, and in this case 
you must not repot until the new shoots are 2inches long. Continue itin 
heat until the growth is made, and then remove it to 2 cold pit, or any 
cool, airy house. To flower, it requires a temperature of 45° in winter. 
The main point is to have the wood well ripened. 


TREE MIGNONETTE MANAGEMENT (Idem).—F or flowering throughout the 
winter, or say from September to May, we sow now; indeed, the plants 
ere just up, and when large enough to handle they are potted off in 38-inch 
pots and placed inacold frame. Here they remain with the lights off 
in mild weather, and when the pots are full of roots the plants are 
shifted into 44-inch pots and plunged out of doors in an open situation, 
affording the plants lenty of room. They have a neat painted stick, 


| season to break prematurely this season. 


about 18 inches high, placed to each, so as to keep them erect, and 
to that they are tied as required. When they show flowers these are 
pinched off, and repeatedly through the summer. They are shifted into 
6-inch pots in June, and are put into 9-inch pots at the close of July. 
Beyond picking off the flowers they receive no training, and we have 
them pyramids from 18 inches to 2 feet high by the close of September, 
and they bloom all the winter in a temperature of 40° to 45° ; indeed, they 
are nowin fine flower,and will beso until plants in the open ground come 
in. The main point is not to allow any great development of flower, but 
cut it as we do by the handful nearly every day from September to June, 
as soon as it is sufiiciertly developed. Ifthe plants are allowed to 
develope a large amount of flower they soon become poor. A compost of 
light turfy loam two parts, one part sandy peat, and one part old cow dung 
or leaf soil, with a half part of charcoal in pieces varying from the size of a 
pea to that of a walnut, will grow them well, adding sand liberally. 
Good drainage is necessary. Sprinkle them overhead every evening in 
summer, and every morning in winter, and water so as.to keep the soil 
moist. The kind we grow is Reseda odorata meliorata. It is of vigorous 
growth, and has fine flowers of an orange red colour. 


Weak GrowTHs oF AspaRaGcus (Amateur).—We think it best to cut the 
weak as well as the strong shoots, for we find it tends to make the strong 
shoots push more surely, and earlier than they do when the weak shoots 
are left. Wecut all until the end of May, and then allow two or three 
shoots to rise from each crown, depending for cuttings on those that rise 
over that number. Some let the, weak shoots grow, cutting only the 
strong, which is also a good plan, especially when the beds are thin of 
plants and the growth weak. We have, however, so few small heads, 
from the circumstance that we thin out all the weak shoots in the pre- 


vious year, that they would not be worth leaving; but if our beds in © 


general produced small heads we should leave them, cutting only those fit 
fortable. Late-continued cutting is ruin to Asparagus. 


PracHEs FALLine (Idem).—We should give the trees a good watering 
the first dry weather after May, not a dribble, buta good sosking, and 
mulch the border with short manure. A good watering should be given 
every fortnight, or every week if the weather be very dry and hot, up to 
the fruit commencing ripening, and then discontinue it. Every evening 
during dry, hot weather the trees should be syringed, commencing in 
June, and continuing until the frait begins to ripen. In moist weather 
the syringing and watering will not, of course, be required. 

VrxE BorDER UNcovERING (Idem).—The removal of the material is 
dependant on the state of the Vines. If forcing was commenced in 
January, or earlier, the heating materials ought not to be removed 
until the end of May or beginning of June; but if the material be con- 
fined to a covering of litter, the earlier it is removed after April the 
better. 


Vines (J. O. N.).—We think that you have done right in promoting 
erowth the first year so as to encourage roots, and also in cutting well 
back the first season. Why not continue such a good system? We, there- 
fore, would not at first stop the leading shoots, nor yet the laterals, so 
short as you propose. You will thus, no doubt, earlier ripen the wood, 
but you will diminish strength and lessen root action. We should say, 
let your leading shoot grow 2 or 3 feet longer than you have to prune 
back to next season. When you stop it let the lateral grow a foot or two, 
or more, without stopping, and instead of stumping-in the side laterals 
allow them to grow a joint or two without stopping at first. That will 
add to the strength of the rod. About July begin to shorten them back, 
and provided the laterals at the point of the stopped shoot are running 
by August and September, remove all the laterals downwards on the 
shoots, so that the sun may play on the large bud at each leaf, and thus 
wood and bud beripened. Your proposed plan of short-stopping in this, 
the second year, is liable to be attended with two drawbacks—first, the 
growth will be diminished, and secondly, there is a danger that from so 
much early close pinching you will induce the buds intended for next 
As to your Vine border for 
next season, depend chiefl7 on your fine fibrous sods. Your horse droppings 
to be used safely should be kept dry and mixed with enough of quicklime 
to destroy allfungus. Then to a cartload of the fibrous sods mellowed 
and sweetened, you may add a couple of bushels of your charcoal, the 
same of lime rubbish, the same of the sweetened horse droppings, and 
about one bushel of the half-inch bones. We would have nothing to do 
with ashes from wood, decayed weeds, and other garden rubbish, nor yet 
would we use soot in the compost. Good loam, lime rubbish, and a little 
charcoal, and more bones than stated above, would answer well for Vines, 


‘and you could add dung as a top-dressing, or mulching, removing it and 


adding fresh every year. Soot, and weeds, and wood ashes, &c., all tend 
to make a greasy unctuous mass, in which the roots ere long refuse to 
thrive. 

VINE MANAGEMENT THE First YEAR (1852)—We presume your Vines, 
planted last December, were pruned to the bottom of the rafters, or to 
where you wish for side shoots. As they are now pushing freely you will 
take the shoot from the uppermost eye straight up, not stopping it at all 
until it is within a foot of the extent you ultimately wish, and then pinch 
out its point. This cane will put out laterals, which we would stop at the 
first joint, and then allow any further growths to be made at will, except 
on half the upper part of the cane; the laterals there we would keep 
pinched back to one joint. Ifthe Vines are strong you may have two or 
four side shoots in addition to the principal cane, but if they are not 
strong do not allow them to grow unless you require side shoots below 
the point to which you pruned in winter; then you must leaye them at 
every 9 inches, but on opposite sides of the rod, so that they will be 
18 inches apart on each side. Allow them to grow until they show fruit ; 
if not iruiting they will have tendrils at the fifth or sixth joint, and at 
that take out the point of the shoots, or if fruiting at one joint beyond 
the bunch, and stop all laterals from these shoots at the first leaf, and 
stop to that afterwards throughout the season. All buds or shoots other 
than those mentioned should be rubbed off. 


CHRYSANTHEMUMS Stoprine (W. X. Y.).—Take ont the point of the 
plants from cuttings when 6 inches high, and stop them again early in 
June and about the middle of July. 


MIGNONETTE IN Pors FOR EXHIBITION IN JULY (4. R.).—We presume by 
four pots that four plants only are meant, one in each pot; but as you say 
there is no limit to number of plants nor size of pots we should have three 
plants, and for so early as July grow them in 9-inch pots. Sow in March 
in gentle heat, and when up remove to a house with a temperature of 50°. 


lt tat 


April 27, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 509 


Pot them when large enough to handle singly in 3-inch pots, and place 
them in the same structure, keeping them near the glass, and watering 
as required, sprinkling overhead morning and evening. When the pots 
are filled with roots transfer them to pots a size larger, and early in 
June put three in 29-inch pot, place in a cold pit, drawing off the lights 
after a few days, and use them only during heavy rains or high winds. 
Pick off all the flowers, but not later than the first week of June—i ¢., re- 
move all the flowers at that time. We know what a good specimen Mig- 
noneite is, but no one can tell whatis a good pet of it, for e plantin a 
6-inch pot may be a mass of flowers and have good foliage; or it may be 
in a 9-inch or 11-inch pot, and still be fine as regards size, habit, good 
foliage, and profusion of bloom, and a good bush may be formed by perhaps 
half a dozen plants in the like size of pot. It is not possible to tell what 
is meant in the schedules of some exhibitions ' 

GRASS UNDtR Beecu Trees (M2. EZ. K.).—There are but two Grasses 
that do with us under Beech trees—Festuca duriuscula (Hard Fescue), 
and Poanemoralis (Wood Meadow Grass), or its variety Poa nemoralis sem- 
pervirens. ‘These do well with us under some very large Beech trees, but 
it is an open grove. If very closely shaded we question whether anything 
would serve you so well as Ivy. We should, however, try the Grasses 
named. We have found Vinca minor (Lesser Periwinkle) also do well. 

TRANSPLANTING Box Trees (Idem)—We have this spring planted five 
hundred of the sizes you name (4 and 5 feet high), and no plants that 
we know move with greater safety, as they have such good balis; but if 
they have not, the ground must be very Joose, or they have been grown 
very closely together fora long time. The main point isto move with 
plenty of root, give a good watering at planting, and as occasion requires 
afterwards up to July. Trees of the size you name are very valuable, 
especially for planting under trees, than which nothing does better. 

Nour TREES Prunine (Idem).—The old branches being very long, and 
bearing not very abundantly, we would cut them away and encourage those 
from. the bottom; donot encourage all, but thin away the weakest and 
where they are too thick. Three or four good branches are snificieat, 
and they may be multiplied to any extent by shortening them. It is bad 
practice, however, to encourage crowding. Have ull the branches, if 
possible, starting from above the surface, and remove ali suckers as they 
appear. 

CucumBeERsS ImpREGNATING (Cuwrator).—It is not necessary to fertilise 
Cucumber flowers to have fruit in the best condition for tuble; the 
flowers impregnated produce fruit with seeds, and when these much pre- 
vail in a fruit it is of no use for table. We never impregnate the flowers 
of those fruits we require for cutting, and we consider it well to remove 
the male flowers as they expand. Tho fruit will swell quite as well 
without them. Indeed fertilising Cucumber flowers is not practised by 
gardeners except to produce seed of any kinds they requive. Ona seeding 
Cucumber impoyerishes the plant more than a score of seedless ones. 

Disconoration oF Leaves by Syrtncine (Idem).—It is entirely owing 
to the water. Clear soft or rain water leaves no sediment on the leayes, 
nor does any kind of water after it has been in an open tank a few days 
and used clear. 

_ Apricor Leaves Curtine (H. G. MW ).—Itis caused by asmall yellow- 
ish green caterpillar, that does great injury to the foliage by feeding on 
it and tying the leaves together for a habitation. After atime, or when 
at its full size, it fastens together fragments of leaves and changes to a 
brown pupa, from which the perfect insect emerges in July. There is no 
remedy so good as hand-picking, giving all the curled leaves 2 squeeze 
between the finger and thumb, and this should be practised: up to July 
A syringing with tobacco water, that of the shops being diluted with six 
times its volume of water, will also destroy all it touches; but they are so 
screened from attack by the curled leaves, that hand-picking and squeéz- 
ing are by far the best riddance. The caterpillars are the lary of a 
small moth, Ditula angustiorana. ‘ 


GERANIUMS NoT Rootine (H. H. R.).—The cuttings put in last autumn 
and potted-off singly in March, we think have not rooted owing to the 
check given in potting, the weather not being very favourable. If you 
could give them.a gentle bottom heat, in a frame ona dung bed for a 
fortnight or three weeks, we have no doubt they would root well in that 
time. They will, however, root in a greenhouse, but then do not give too 
much water, but keep them moderately moist, sprinkling overhcad rather 
than making the soil very wet by frequent watering at the roots. 

H2EMANTHUS CoccINEUS To FLOWER IN AUGUST (An Amateur).—You do 
not Say in what condition the plant is at present, but we presume it is 
growing freely or hus made a good growth, and in that case you will need 
to give water and afford alight airy position up to June, then withhold 
water and place the plaatin a warm situation in a greenhouse, aud in 
July place it out of doors—that is, if you do not wish for flowers until the 
end of August—for three weeks; then place it ina hotbed at 70°, and it 
may start for flower, and you can remove it to a greenhonse, or continue 
it in heat so as to time the flowering as you require. If you want flowers 
early in August, then you will place it inthe hotbed early in July, but if it 
show by that time you may need to retard the flowering by keeping it under 
a north wall. Thunbergia alata would not be admissible as a stove or 2 
greenhouse plant. We fear it would not tell, though a good specimen is 
very fine. Lomaria gibba can be shown ina collection of six exotic Ferns. 
It is from New Caledonia. : 


_PLANT FoR NEAR A Ponp (Duckery).—In the well-raised bed ia a low 
Situation, stagaant water absent, we would have Pampas Grass in place 
of the Tritoma Uvaria killed by frost. 


TRITELEIA UNIFLORA TREATMENT (Idem).—It is a pretty bulbous plant 
with delicate lilac flowers in spring, and is very valuable for the deco- 
ration of borders. The bulbs require to be planted in September or 
October where they are to flower, 14 to 2 inches deep, and in severe 
weather should be covered with partially-decayed leaves about an inch 
deep, the soil being of asandy nature, and well drained. Or they may be | 
potted six or eight in a 6-inch pot, in a compost of sandy loam, peat, and 
leaf soil, and be protected in a cold pit or frame, the pots beiug plunged, 
and a covering of mats placed over tho lights in severe weather, harden- 
ing-off in spring before planting out. 

PLANTS FOR WintTeR FrLowerine (4 Young Beginner)—We name 
some both of stove and greenhouse kinds, for both of which we appre- 
hend you have convenience. Anthurium Scherzerianum, Ardisia crispa 
elegans for its berries; Begonia fuchsioides, Ingrami, insignis, erecta 
multiflora ; Bucchellia capensis, Dalechampia Roez'iuna rosea, Eranthe- 


mum pulchellum, Franciscea confertiflora, F. calycina major ; Gardenia 
citriodora, Gesnera exoniensis, Monochxtum ensiferum, Pentas carnea, 
Poinsettia pulcherrima, Epiphyllums, and 'Thyrsacanthus rutilans. These 
are stove plants. Of greenhouse plants:—Acacia armata, A. oleifolia 
elegans, A. pulchella, A. Drummondi; Azalea amoeaa, and Fielder’s White, 
Camellias, Coronilla glauca, Correa Brilliant and Harrisi, Cyclamen 
persicum, Cytisus racemosus, Erica hyemalis, Upacrises, Libonia 
floribunda, and forced plunts as Dielytra spectabilis, Deutzia gracilis, 
Spirzea japonica, Lily of the Valley, and Primulas. 

Epipie Funeus (Mrs. C.).—The fields, you say, are full of the Coprinus 
comatus, which is usually an autumn fungus, and you ask, Is it perfectly 
wholesome at this season? In reply we quote from the volume published 
at our office, entitled ‘‘ Selection of Eatable Fungi.’ In thatis a coloured 


portrait of Coprinus comatus, the Maned Agaric, which might enable you 
to be assured that the fungus you speak of is Coprinus comatus. It is 


there stated, ‘‘ The Maned Mushroom is frequently found in waste and 
gvassy places, Jawns, meadows, and bedgehanks during spring, summer, 
andautumn. If gathered when young thisis one of the most delicious 
of all the ediblefungi. Dr. Badham recommends it for ketchup.” 

TERRACE GARDEN (A Subseriber)—Tne arrangement will look very 
well, but you will observe that 1,1, and 2 ina line will have light margins. 
A slate-coloured Verbena, or even 2 dwarf yellow Calceolaria, would make 
a better margin for 2, or even a ring of yellowish-leaved Geranium. 
3, 8, Calceolaria, we would margin with purple or blue. 4, 4, could not be 
beaten ; ditto 5,5. 6 we would like to alter so'far as to put purple Ver- 
bena or Iresine Lindeni next Christine; and 7, Ageratum, we would 
borden with yellow or scarlet instead of purple. 

Merton Cunture (@. A. TV.).—Tf you enclose. five postage stamps with 
your address, and order the “ Kitchen-Garden Manual,” it will be sent to 
you by post. It contains what you need. 


Pansy Cubture (W. R. M.).—In “ Florists’ Flowers forthe Many” are 
full details, You can have it by post if you enclose five postage stamps 
with your address. 

Wuits Viouers (Lincolnshire Vicar).—They are only a variety of the 
common purple Viola odorata. We have no doubt that this occasionally 
sports into white flowers, especially on chalky soils. 

Pars (42 Amateur)—Pitmaston Duchess is a very superior Pear and 
sets well. Beurré de l’Assomption is also excellent. They do well in 
pots in the orchard house. We know nothing either for or against the 
others you name. 

PuAntTInG Hors To Cover Aw ARBooR (Arthenice\.—Altbough it is now 
late to plant the Hop for the purpose you mention, yet it may be done if 


_you can obtain a good plant in a pot, but to take one up from the ground 


will be attended with loss to it that it will hardly recover diwing the 
season. Many of the shoots of Hops are now 6 feet high, but with care in 
warding off all attacks of insects, and shading the plant fora few days ~ 
trom very bright sun, it is likely yor may yet succeed, but a month or 
six weeks sooner would have been better. 

ALLOWING TRIcoLoR GERANIUMS TO FLoWweR (Iden).—This is a mere 
matter of taste. When planted in quantity so as to furm a feature in the 
flower garden, we usually pick off the flowers, but with single plants 
dotted about amongst others we usually let them flower. We do not 
think the persistent removal of flower buds as they appear assists the 
plantin its growth, for it will make an effort to produce more. If your 
object. is to increase the growth of a particular kind, better let one or two 
flower trusses remain, and remove the rest, also cut off all seed stems. 


Waite Spot on ORCHARD-HoUSe PEacHsEs (Rus in Urbe).—We are afraid 
that the young fruit of Peaches and Nectirines are infested with mildew, 


| and this often seizes the fruit, when, as in your case, the foliage is free from 


it. Your remedy is to dust the parts with flowers of sulphur, and afford 
more free ventilation. As the fruit in the orchard house are so large, 
we should imagine that the atmosphere has been rather too close, and 
that there has been either too much or too little moisture at the roots. 
Whilst the sulphur is on the fruit shade slightly. It would also be well 
to daub any open parts of the wall with sulphur paint. We often use 
strong soft-soap water for mixing the sulphur, xs then it adheres better to 
the wall. The sulphur should first be beaten-up with a little water into a 
thick paste, otherwise you will not easily mis it with water. The fruit. 
affected should be dusted with something like a five pepper-box. 

Frowsr Garpen (D. R.).—We think your mode of planting will look 
very well. However, as you,no doubt, wint us to amend it, if we cannot. 
find a fault, we should say that simplicity would improve it. Your centre, 
No.1, cannot be improved, and you have done well in crossing 2, 2, and 
3, 3, but we should prefer to make them all alike, just as you haye done 
with 7,7, and 8,8. We are more inclined to say this, because, unless the 
Variegated Geraniums, &c., in 2, 2. are very strong, you must nip the 
Perilla edging closely. Then as respects 3,3, the edging of Golden Heather 
will not suit so well with the Pink Christine Geranium as some other 
things. Supposing you bordered the 4 beds with the Golden Pyrethrum, 
and then filled alone with Perilla and the Variegated or pink Geranium. 
One improvement here would be to substitute Iresine Lindeni for Perilla, 
the leaves are so much smaller and of 2 fine deep purple, and would need 
but little pinching in comparison. The Iresine Herbstii would be better 
than Perilla, but Perilla will do well if you use small plants, and pinch 
well-in, and yet leave small young shoots with small leaves. Then, as 
you edge all these beds, we would edge also the whole of the rest, 
Madame Vaucher with purple, the scarlets with white, the purples with 
yellow, and then let those who would beat you look out. 


Peach Frees IN Peach Uouse (jV¥. B.).—The Peach leaves seem as if 
they were thin and. suffering from want of root nourishment, but if 
growing inside the house they would not be so apt to suffer from Elm-tree 
roots. From the latter you can have no remedy, except trenching down 
beyond the roots, and either leaving the trench open or making a cement 
wall, through which the roots cannot pass—a difficult affair unless you go 
deep enough. We do not think that isthe sole cause, or even the prin- 
cipal one. We observe on the leaves spots and scalds, which are generally 
the results of two causes—first,. deficient early ventilation ; and second, 
which without further information we think has much to do in your case, 
scars and spots in the glass, which act as so many burning lenses. By 
carefully examining the vlass vou can satisfy yourself as to this, and can 
daub each scar with a little paint. If not, the roots are at fault. 


FLOWER-GARDEN PLANTING (Hazelhwrst)—We think we commended 
your flower garden long ago for its ease, gracefulness, and simplicity > 


310 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ April 27, 1871. 


Nothing can be simpler than the mode of planting the central group. 
We are a little confused as to the numbering, as we cannot find No. 6; 
but we presume it must have been intended as a couple of the four of 
No.5. Here we would like you to remark, that in the twelve clumps 
in a circular form there are just three fours that are planted alike, 
and if every one of these twelve beds round the central fountain had 
been planted differently, there would not have been the tithe of satisiac- 
tion derived that there will be from the balancing of three distinct modes 
of planting. We are not quite sure as to all the beds being edged with 
Serastium, but if they are, then we would like a double edging inside for 
some of them, such as blue for yellow, and purple for pink, &e. Then of 
the four 10’s in a parallelogram shape, we prefer those with the diagonal 
lines across done with Coleus Verschaffelti, and the angles, or triangles 
rather, filled with Flower of the Spring and Mrs. Pollock Geraniums, with 
a slight line of blue inside the Cerastium edging. Of all the pretty 
Coleuses, the only one we have met with to be depended on for out-door 
work is Coleus Verschaffelti, and we have made many trials of whites 
and yellows to group with and show off its rich colours. Let us here 
note, for the benefit of our correspondent and our readers, that Mr. Alex- 
ander McKay, jun.,of Woburn Abbey, has, so far as we are aware, beaten 
us all in finding the richest harmonious contrast for the Coleus. The 
single large bed of the Coleus at Woburn last year was edged with a 
double row of the Polemonium ceruleum variegatum, and we can only 
say that that single bed has been a thing to think and dream about ever 
since. The next best planting of that bedat Woburn was when it was sur- 
rounded with a fine uniform belt of rather old white plants of Cineraria 
maritima. We planted out much more of the Coleus than Mr. McKay. 
We know of places where, perhaps, ten times the number of plants 
were put in, and all were admired in the various combinations, but this 
Polemonium, with its shades of green, white, and yellow, and the cut 
artistic form of its leaves, seemed just fitted for the rich crimson of the 
Coleus. We should be glad to hear of a better edging. We say to the 
possessor of this fine garden at Hazelhurst, and to our readers generally, 
Try at Jeast a small bed if you can, and report to u3 the result. We 
mean to try ourselves, and we trust our plants will be strong before 
planting-ouf time. Weare ever glad to imitate when it is not given to 
us to originate. The four 8's will look well—Golden Feather Pyrethrum, 
Lobelia speciosa, Calceolaria amplexicaulis ; only the Calceolaria, if grown 
strong, will be out of all proportion to the Lobelia. Iresine Lindeni and 
Herbstii, or a line of Purple Verbena, would be better, or a line of the 
imperial Dwarf Ageratum. The four large beds of Stella Geranium 
should also have something to tone them down in height to the Cerastium 
edging. But we know we have said enough. We are alluding to plants 
grown strong. If the Geranium plants are small, then our objections do 
not apply; but»for ourselves we like to see growth as well as bloom, and 
to have the ground wholly concealed when the beds are at their best. 


EDGING For 4 BorDER (4 Cottage Gardener).—As an edging inside Box, 
Cerastium tomentosum makes a good and permanent line, enduring 
three years and more without requiring to be renewed. Allit requires is 
cutting occasionally to its proper limits, and in autumn we cut ours toa 
width of about 4 inches, and it grows remarkably well, and would flower 
well in May and June; but we cut it close down early in May, andit makes 
nice spray by the time bedding plants are put out. 

TWELVE SELECT EVERGREEN AND VARIEGATED SHRUBS (Idem).—The 
following all bear cutting well, and may be kept of the height you require 
—s or 4 feet:—Laurustinus, Aucuba japonica maculata (old Aucuba), 
A. japonica limbata (if you had a male plant they would produce berries), 
Buxus arborescens marginatus argenteus and B. arborescens marginatus 
aureus, Ilex Hodginsi, Gold-edged Holly, Silver-edged Holly, Taxus ad- 
pressa, T. elegantissima, Rhamnus angustifolius variegatus, and R. lati- 
folius maculatus. For our own part we would have Laurustinus, Gold 
and Silver-edged tree Box, Hodgins’s Holly, and Gold and Silver-variegated 
Holly, two of each. They would need to be cut-in every year before they 
began to grow. 


WEEDING MuLCHED BoRDER (Idem).—We should not do more than 
turn the mulching over with a fork, or go over it in dry weather with a 
Dutch hoe, leaving the litter light, and in either vase they would be dried 
up. If they are tap-rooted weeds that are pushing through the litter 
from the soil, you will of course need to fork them out, removing the 
litter, and when the border is cleaned replace the litter. 


WATER-CRESSES IN A GARDEN BorDER (H. Leeworthy).—Planting must 
ve done in September, in a moist, shady border. Plant slips, and the 
only cultivation necessary is to dig the earth fine, to draw aslight trench 
with a hoe, to fill this with water untilit becomes a mud, to cover it about 
aninch deep with drift sand, and then to stick in the slips about six 
inches apart, watering them until established. The sand keeps the 
plants clean. They will be ready for gathering from ina very few weeks, 
and the shoots should be invariably cut, and not picked. 


StorPInc DsaPHNE INDICA RUBRA SHooTs (H. N. O.).—You are, no 
doubt, aware that the flowers are produced from the points of the shoots, 
and if you remove them as you must do in stopping, the plant will not 
lower next year unless it make fresh shoots, which it is not likely to do, 
as those of the current year are already 5 inches long. Whatever pruning 
this plant requires should be done before it begias to grow. 


TritomMa UVARIA GRANDIFLORA SEEDS Farnine (Idem).—The seeds 
enclosed to us appear to be sound. We think if you were to place the 
pots in a hotbed of 70° to 75° the seeds would soon vegetate. No par- 
ticular treatment is required, only sow in well-drained pots or pans, and 
in a compost of two parts peat, one part turfy loam, and one part leaf soil, 
with a free admixture of sharp sand, having the surface fine, and just 
covering with fine soil. Keep the soil moist, and when the seedlings are 
fairly up harden them off, remoye them to a greenhouse, and when large 
enough to handle pot them off singly, and place them in a cold frame. 


Grogs IN Sor (Idem).—From your description we should say they are 
millipedes which infest your soil. They feed on decaying vegetable 
matter, but we do not know that they do any great injury to vegetable 
crops. They are very plentifulin ground which has been heavily manured, 
and long cropped with vegetables. A dressing of limeis very useful, both 
im driving them away and for improving that description of ground. A 
dressing of gas lime will in most cases drive them away. The gas lime 
should be applied some time before the ground is intended to be cropped. 

Coteus PROPAGATION (Idem).—The Coleus is of very easy culture, but | 
eannot well be wintered in a less temperature than 50°. The plants 
require as arule about 10° more heat than Pelargoniums. The points of } 


the shoots, taken off when about 3 inches long, strike freely if inserted in 
sandy soil and placed in a gentle heat. They strike even mora freely 
than bedding Geraniums. We winter ours in a cool stove; they are 
beautiful all the winter, and afford us an abundance of cuttings in spring. 


HEADING-DOWN Ho.uutss (A. B.).—Now is the best time in the whole 
year for cutting back Hollies and all evergreen shrubs ill-shaped or over 
grown. You may cut them back to any extent, but leave enough of small 
branches for making fresh shoots. The branches left need not have 
leaves, and may be cut inas much as you wish. The best evergreen tree 
for shelter is Austrian Pine. It stands the sea breeze well, and resists 
strong westerly blasts better than any other. The Corsican Pine, how- 
ever, resists them well, grows as straight as an arrow, and makes double 
the growth of the Austrian Pine. It is very desirable where quick growth 
is required, and yet, not having so dense a habit as the Austrian Pine, 
we prefer the latter, but where practicable we would have both. We 
should plant the Austrian Pine outside, and the Corsican Pine in the 
internal lines; indeed, we have some screens of these kinds that are 
succeeding excellently. On limestone soil inclined to swampiness we 
have seen Norway Spruce thriving. Pinus maritima would probably suit. 


FAsTENING DriepD Ferns (E. J.).—The best mode of attaching them 
to the leaves of a book is by small straps of green paper passed over the 
stem and gummed to the paper by their ends by a solution of gum traga= 
canth. Youcan have THE JoURNaL oF HorTICULTURE from our office 
in the way you mention. 

SHamRock (J. W. Breton).—No one knows what plant St. Patrick held 
up as an illustration of the Trinity. It is a mere legend that he used any 
such illustration. Consequently, whether the plant you enclose, Oxalis 
corniculata, is “ the true Shamrock,” cannot be told. 


InsEcTs oN Grape VINE Bups (R. B.).—The insect sent (Otiorhynchus 
sulcatus) is decidedly an enemy to the Grape Vine, gnawing off the young 
buds. Search for them after dark, previously spreading a white cloth 
beneath the tree, upon which they will fall, and are easily seen.—I. O. W. 


Names oF Fruits (John J. Harpur).—The small conical Apple is Coe’s 
Golden Drop, and the round one appears to be Wyken Pippin. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


A DRAKE-DUCK. 

Tue following is in reply to ‘‘ R. W.” :— 
We think Pope says, ‘‘ First, follow nature; he was perfectly 
right. There isa penalty if we do not, and the penalty is in- 
evitable. As soon as a capon is really made, and the bird has 


had the good fortune to be the subject of a masterly operator, the 


combs and gills have been removed; all signs of vitality have 
disappeared; the comb is not reproduced; the gills are things 
of the past; the tail loses its sickles; the hackles and saddles 
diminish; and the once ‘ gallant” now ‘‘ capers nimbly in a 
lady’s chamber,”’ hoping to sit on the eggs her ladyship will 
leave. This is because we have not followed nature. 

The capon is a careful and diligent nurse. It is ‘‘ extant in 
choice Italian” that most of the Italian chickens are reared by 
capons. We can vouch from our own experience that the 
authentic capon is a diligent watcher of hens when they are 
laying, that he may have the pleasure of sitting on the eggs. 
Most of our readers will be familiar with the real hybrid, the 
cross between the fowl and Pheasant. Although sex is denied 
to these birds, yet there is sufficient difference in them to 
make even the ignorant in such matters say at a first sight, 
“That is a cock, this isa hen.” We once had many running 
and flying about. Wealso keptcommon fowls. We kept them 
as nearly as possible fer@ nature. They roosted in trees; they 
laid in baskets nailed to a wall. The ‘‘male” hybrid would 
sit on a bough watching a hen that was going to lay, and when 
she got on the edge of the basket, and gave audible notes of 
joy at having produced an egg, he would immediately fly from 
his perch, slip behind the hen, and, rufiling his feathers, spread 
himself over one egg, as though it were necessary he should 
cover ‘a long score.’ When he was removed from his charge 
he clung to it with the same pertinacity, and, force being used, 
there was as much ‘cussing and swearing” as there would 
have been from one who had laid fifteen and sat on them all. 
Few poulardes were ever made in England. We are not natu- 
rally fond of these eccentricities. Esto perpetua. 

When a poularde is made by removing the egg-laying organs 
at their first development, the meek blushing pullet, that was 
only anxious to increase the number of the fowls that be, 
becomes an incipient matador. The pendant comb becomes 
erect; the round tail narrows, lengthens, and curves at the ex- 
tremities; the hackle and saddle grow; the spurs lengthén day 
by day, and, horribile dictu/ the pullet crows. To the best of 
her ability she becomes he. It may be said ‘‘ Sarve you right, 
leave the sexes alone.” Granted. 

It is said accidents will happen in the best-regulated families. 
A man may legitimately get a black eye without being engaged 
in a disreputable squabble by gaslight. Let us discourse. 
Such of our readers as shoot will know that sometimes a hen- 
cock is killed. Well, where the dimensions of the bag permit, 


=" 


wie 


i a 


April 27, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. i 311 


it is spread out before the shooters at luncheon time, and, 
if there is a hen-cock, what a number of opinions! The old 
school recitation of the Chameleon is nothing to it. One says 
she never lays; another says she lays but does not sit; ihe 
‘third says she is among Pheasants what the Cuckoo is among 
small birds; the last says she is a hen that, failing to find a 


mate, turned cock in self-defence. Mr. Yarrell and the writer 
of this made the first dissection of a hen-cock; the egg-organs 
were ruptured, the bowels were saturated with yolk, and hence 
the change. Tho truth is, when the propensities of one sex are 
tampered with and destroyed, accidentally or not, they are re- 
placed by the opposite one. This is the history of your Duck. 


THE JACOBIN. 


WE now submit a few observations on the Jacobin, or, as it 
is more commonly termed in the fancy, ‘‘the Jack.” We 
shall endeavour to be concise, in order that our remarks may 
be the more readily comprehended by the uninitiated and the 


young fanciers, for whose enlightenment we are mainly striving, 
and that they may be the means, we hope, of extending the 
cultivation of this interesting vaiety. We shall not attempt 
to deal with the questions of its origin and the manner in 


which its most striking characteristics have been produced— 
namely, the hood and chain, which impart to it such a peculiar 
and monk-like appearance. 3 

Taking it ag an acknowledged fact that the Rock Dove is the 
common ancestor of all our domestic Pigeons, we can only 
_ express our admiration at the result of the exertions of the 
fanciers of bygone days, who, by perseverance and careful 
Selection, have produced this among the many unique varieties 
we now possess, feeling grateful to them for what they have 
done, and hoping that such evidences of zeal and enthusiasm 
in the past may be emulated now and in the future, and to- 
wards no variety is this spirit more wanting than towards the 
variety to which we are now directing attention. 

Our portrait is that of a Red hen of great merit, fully testi- 
fied by the many successes she has achieved in the show pen. 

The points of the breed are as follow:—A round head and 
a short spindle bill, or what a fancier would term short-faced. 
The eye should be white, or pearl as it is generally called, 


entirely free from blotches, and be surrounded by a small red 
cere or lash. An orange eye is highly detrimental. The hood 
should be well developed, and lie flat on the top of the head, 
the frill or chain projecting from it being of such a length that 
when the bird is in ‘‘carriage’’ the eye is nearly hidden by it, 
and it should meet in front of the chest so closely as to appear 
to overlap, and the lower it extends the better. The hood, frill, 
body, and thighs should be of one uniform colour, whether 
black, yellow, or red, the ten flight feathers of each wing and 
the tail being white; and as respects the former point, the 
white should not extend below the bill. In size the bird should 
be small, with a light and erect carriage, and neat coral legs 
and feet. j 

The colours we place in the following order :—Black, Red, 
Yellow, and Blue, the first three being as rich and sound 
as possible. The Blues should correspond to the foregoing 
remarks, with the exception of the black bar peculiar to al 
blue Pigeons. We have heard from our late Hon. Secretary 


312 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ April 27, 1871. 


that a few years ago such birds were plentiful in Belgium and 
Germany, and we occasionally hear of them now; but as they 
seldom or never make their appearance at our exhibitions, we 
conclude that they are not quite such as could he wished. 

Self-coloured, or Whole-feathered White or Black Jacks are 
ofien to be met with, but they fall short in their properties as 
compared with their better-known brethren we bave described, 
Leing generally coarse in frill and hood, and the Whites, in the 
mejority of instances, showing the black or bull eye; and we 
fear that till these deficiencies are overcome such birds will 
always stand 2 very poor chance in the show pen. 

As regards breeding, they are prolific end good nurses. In 
matching, we strongly advise the crossing of no colours except 
the Reda and Yellows. 

In conclusion, we believe that there is no variety of Toys 
that has of late been so neglected by the faney. A perfect 
pair is seldom to be met with at our shows, they being generally 
ill-matched both in size and marking: the cock as largo egain 
as the hen, and coarse in every pciat, or one or the otter, foul 
in flights, or very irregularly cut. 

Well may the question be asked, ‘Where are the Jacobins 
gone?” And pleased, indeed, should we be to see fanciers take 

hem up, and with careful selection and a certain amount of 
in-and-in breeding restore them to what they have been and 
should be. This we hope to see effected ere long. BrruncHa 
CotumpBarran Society. 


INFLUENCE OF EACH PARENT. 

Mr. L. Wrienr, in his remarks.on the influence of the male 
bird, takes up x» matter which will be very difficult to decide, 
and a great many opinions will, no doubt, be formed amongst 
breeders as to its real foundation. The question is a very im- 
portant one, and should have: had the attention of breeders 
years ago. 

I will quote two cases. Two Spanish pullets, 2° Seanish 
cockerel, and a Cochin cock, had heen reared together in my 
yard. After the pnilets began to lay the Cochim waz removed, 
and after the expiration of six clesr weeks eggs from ihe two 
pullets were taken up for sitting, but feather-legced Bleck 
Spanish appeared; the plumage was’ perfectly black; aud so 
were the leg feathers. 

Mr. Wright quotes a case, that one-visit io a Turkey cock 
fertilises the whole batch of eggs. Laegree with him; and so 
with the coramon hen, as my experience willshow. I bad x 
Black Red hen; after heing broody ané laying one egg, she was 
sent to visit a Brown Red cock, was thrown down in the yard, 
allowed to remain a few hours, was taken up and: brought 
home, and laid nine eggs; each egg produced a chicken, and 
each like the male bird, which was Brown Red. I may men- 
tion that after the hen was brought home she was kept entirely 
by herself. ; 

These facts would lead us to believe that we are not suffi- 
ciently careful in mating for exbibition ; no doubt considerable 
sums are spent in purchasing stock birds, which, after being 
received, are iurned info the yard of the breeder, the eggs 
taken up at once for sitting, and the resalt is unsatisfactory 


produce, because the iafiuence of the previous male is left, and. 


in my opinion for ever will be more or less. Here the sejier I 
daresay in many cases is blamed, and is probably told that his 
prize-winning stock bird has produced nothing but rubbish, at 
the same time the fault rests with the breeder. My opinion 
is, that hens intended to be bred from should be kept in a 
yerd entirely by themeelves, at the proper season to be mated 
with the cock or cocks you wish to breed from. I believe 
the influence of the first union is never thoronghly erased.— 
Rosrr. Payne, Brierfield. 


Nor long ago I imported a trio of Dark Brabmas.to Canada, 
where I then resided. Being tho first of the variety in the 
cocniry they were very rouch admired. A psir were shown 
at the spring meeting of the Oatario Ponltry Association, 
their owner having been elected au honorary member of that 
spirited and energetic Society. Having entered the birds at 
what was considered 2 prohibitory price, I thonght myself safe 
to bring them home again, but to my great chagrin they were 
claimed. Thus I was left without a Brakma cock, and the 
short Canadian hatching season must be over before I could 
import another. My remaining pullet had not long heen Jay- 
ing, and I then allowed her to run with a Silver-spangled Ham- 
burgh rooster, and with five hens. Every egg Jaid for ten days 
produced a pure Dark Brahma chick; ihe egg lnid on the 


eleventh day brought forth a half-bred. Strange to sey, the 
Brahma pullet never liked her Spangled mate, she did not 
seem to flonrish, and ere long came to an untimely fate. — 
CHANTICLEER. 


Tue letters on the influence of the male bird, &c., are very 
interesting, and remind me of 2 somewhat similar controversy 
relative to horses, which resulted, after some hundreds of letters 
had been published, in the conviction that the male, as a rule, 
stamped the progeny with outward form and coloar, the most 
decisive argument being used by a clergyman, who reminded 
his opponents that the produce of the pony and female ass had 
the ears and shape of the horse, and hinnied like him, while 
the produce of the ass end mare had ths long ears and cross of 
the ass, and breyed. Hence I think the male stamps the 
progeny with form and colour, and I believe the female gives 
constitution ; et jeast, in horse-breeding it is looked to above 
all other things to huve a sound constitution on the mare’s 
side. 

I believe ‘‘ F. S. F.” (see page 281) was unwise in buying the 
‘‘handsome Bafi Cochin pullet, weighing 9 lbs.,”’ to breed 
from, as fowls have their constitutions ruined by training or 
feeding for shows. I recollect an anecdote of the Royal breed- 
ing stud at Hampton Court which may illustrate some of the 
views of your correspondents. A thorongh-bred mare had a 
foal bya zebra, and for several seasons afterwards she had 
foals marked partially and visibly in a similar manner to the 
mule foal striped like the zebra; it was the action of her 
imagination of course. I often thought that that myth in 
poultry, the white fowi with black topknot, could be produced 
by sewing aeblack crest on a white cock. I would try the ex- 
periment had I the time.—Lyzz. , 


WHARFEDALE POULTRY SHOW. 


Tue seyenty-third annual meeting of the Wharfedale Agricultural 
Society was held in a large field on the northern bank of the river 
Wharfe, at Otley, on the 2ist inst. Fortunately the weather was very 
fine, although rain fell heavily on every other day of the week, and 
the good old town of Otley, that favourite resort of pleasure-seekers 
in early spring, put on a gay and animated appearance. This was the 
most successfui of the Society’s Exhibitions, through the able manage- 
ment of the Secretary, Mr. Lee. The number of entries was nearly 
two hundred. in excess of those in any previous year. There was an 
exceilent display of poultry, and in some of the classes the competition 
was keen. 

Spanish came first in the schedule, but were not nearly so good as 
last year. The Dorkings, which seldom excel in this locality, were 
few in number, but the winners good. Among the Cochins were some 
good birds, but few good pens, the first-prize hen suffering from diseased 
feet. Polish fowl were very fine, and the whole class commended. 
Among the Game were some birds exceedingly true to colour. Of the 
Reds, Brown Reds were first and Black Reds second, and in the con- 
test for the Game cup, the second-prize pen was awarded the cup, 2 
separate entry being required to enable them to compete. These 
birds were, however, very fine in ail points. The Hamburghs were, as 
may be expected, the best gathering in the Show. With the Gold- 
spangled the contest was close, and the birds of high merit; but of 
the Silver-spangled, the first-prize pen stood clear of all competition, 
being perfect in spangling and rich in colour. The cup for Any 
variety except Game was won by this pen. The Pencilled Hamburghs 


of both colours-were very good, the first-prize Golden pen containing 
a male bird of great beauty. The Black Hamburghs were good as a 
class, though some of the birds were a little white on the face. The 
Game Bantam class was not good, although the entries were numeroms. 
The first prize was awarded to Black Reds, and the second to Brown 
Reds. There were some good pens of Black Bantams, but many of 
them were short-feathered, and we thought an unnoticed pen should 
have been placed first. 

There was a class for single Game Bantam cocks, in which the birds 
were much better than in the pens of that variety. The Variety class 
contained Pekins and Silver Sebrights, which we thought very good. 

The Turkeys were large, and fine in plumage. The Aylesbury 
Ducks were poor, but in the Variety class for Ducks were some good 
birds, Viduuda Whistling Ducks being first, and Carolinas second. 
The whole class was noticed. 

Some augmentation of the Piyeon schedule had been made, although 
the prizes were still but poor; yet the attempt to improve this section 
met with a ready response. The quality of the birds was unex- 
ceptionable, and we hope the Committee will make a greater recon- 
struction of the prize list, as we feel quite confident that this depart- 
ment can easily be made more than self-supporting. 

In the Cartier class the birds were pretty evenly balanced, the first 

; being Blacks, and the second Duns, these and the rest of the birds 
| being all aged. ‘The Pouters were also good as a whole, the first-prize 
pen of Blues standing quite out in the Show, and securing the cup for 


— 


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April 27, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


313 


the best pen of Pigeons. The second were White. 
good, the first prize being awarded to Duns, and the second to Blacks. 
Of Jacobins, the first were Reds, and the second Yellow, both pairs 
being nice specimens. Of Turbits, the first-prize birds were Red, and 
the second Blue, both pens highly deserving their position ; but a pen 
in this class belonging to Mr. Lund was disqualified, as a mode of 
trimming had been adopted that. displayed considerable skill and 
practice on the, part of the manipulator. The spike of the cock bird 


not being the proper shape, had been placed in the right position, and | 


there secured with starch, eum, or some other glutinous substance, and 
beautifully powdered over with Spanish white or some other article 
likely to give a frosted appearance, and we must admit that at 
first sight the effect was very good. In Short-faced Tumblers the con- 
test lay between two pairs of Almonds, the first being very good in 
skull and ground colour, but not so good in eye and marking as the 
second. Of common Tumblers the first-prize pair were the best Red 
Mottles we remember to have seen, and the second were very good 
Red Baldpates. The Antwerps were as good as could be wished, the 
first sound-coloured Duns, the second very handsome Red Chequers, 
and the whole class was well deserving of notice. The Fantails were 
good, but some of the pens too small for a proper display of their style. 
Of Owls, the foreign variety eclipsed the rest entirely, not a single 
correct Enelish Owl being worthy of notice. Blues won the prizes, 
although one pair of Blue-tailed Whites were very fine. Many more 
prizes might have been worthily dispensed in the Variety class as 
most of the birds were very good; the first position was awarded to a 
handsome pair of Black-Mottled Trumpeters, and the second to an 
exquisite pair of German Ice Pigeons. 

SpanisH (Black).—l, E. Newbitt, Epworth, Lincolnshire. 
Silsden. he, H. Beldon, Goitstock, Bingley (2). c, J. Powell, Bradford. 

Dorxrnes.—l, J. White, Warlaby, Northallerton. 2, Miss B. Peirse, Bedale. 

Cocutn-Cera.—1, E. Leach, Rochda 2, J. Rollinson, Lindley, Otley. 
he, H.Beldon; J. Dixon, Bradford; H. C. Mason, Drighlington, Leeds. Cid 
Watts, Birmingham. 

Braga Poorra—l and 2, H. Beldon. he, J. Watts; J.B. Britton, Pottery, 


Leeds. 

Ponanp.—l, W. Harvey, Sheffield. 2, H. Beldon. he, H. Beldon (2); H.B. 
Smith, Brooklands, Preston; T.S. Turner, Boroughbridge. 

Gamu.—Red.—1, J. Hodgson, Bradford. 2, J. Rollinson. he, Lund & Lam- 
bert, Silsden ; W. John dle, Leeds. ec, W. Spencer, Haworth. Cock.—1, T. 
Oldfield, Shibden, Halif 2, J. Rollinson. <Any other Varicty—1, H. C. 
Mason. 2 and Cup, J. Rollinson. 

Hampureus. — Golden-spangled. —1, H. Beldon. 2, J. Rollinson. he, J. 
Newton, Silsden.  Silver-spangled. —1 and 2, H. Beldon. he, J. Newton; 


2, J. J. Booth, 


Ashton & Booth, Mottram, Cheshire. Golden-pencilled—1 and he, H. Beldon. 
2, J. Rollinson. ver-pencilled.—i, 2, and Cup, H. Beldon. Blachk.—1, OC. Sidg- 
Wick, Keighley. W. Collyer, Dubb. Bingley. he, H. Beldon 

GaME Baw’ , F. Steel, Marsden Hall, Burnley. 2,E.Newbitt he, Bel- 


lingham & Gill, Woodt , S. Smith, North- 
owram, Halifax. he, E. Newbitt. c, J. Rollinson. 

Bantams.—Black.—l, W. Moore, Keighley. 2, J. Watts. he, J. Rollinson; 
A. Beldon. | ¢, J. Walker, Halitax. Any other Variety.—l, H. Beldon. 2, Mrs. 
R. Frew, Kirkcaldy, Scotland. he, Miss R. C. Frew, Kirkealdy. 

ANY oTHER VaRreTy.—l, H. Beldon. 2, J. Watts (Sultans). he, J. Rollinson ; 
H. Beldon; Mrs. J. Cross, Brig. c, Miss B. Peirse. 

Ducks. — Rouen. —1, ©. Leach. 2, J. Newton. he, A. West, Worsthorn, 
Burnley; J. Dixon, Bradford. c, C. Graham, Aldborough, Boroughbridge. 
slylesbury—1, B. Leech. 2, T. Carvers, Borouzhbridge. Any other Variety.— 
1, W. Binns, Pudsey (Whistling Ducks). 2, H.B. Smith, Brooklands, Preston. 
Heh ee Ashton, Mottram; H.B. Smith; J. Dixon, Bradford (Carolinas and 
Pintails). 

_,TusKEYs.—1, EB, Leach. 2, F. Steel. c, S. Beacroft, Fewston; T. Smith, 

Staveley, Boroughbridge ; M. Kew, Oakham, Rutland. 
SELLING Cuass.—l, W. Firth, Birkenshaw. 2,Baxter & Dawson, Idle, Leeds 
PIGEONS. : 

Carriers.—l, &. Horner, Harewood. 2, H. Yardley, Birmingham. he, W. 
Harvey, Sheffield. 

Pourers.—1 and Cup, J. Hawley, Bradford. 2, E. Horner. he, H. Beldon; 


. Harvey. 

Bares.—l, E. Horner. 2, H. Yardley. he, W. Harvey. 

JACOBINS.—1 and 2, ©. Horner. c, W. C. Dawson, Otley. 

Tursits.—l, H. Yardley. 2,H, Beldon. he, W. Lund, Shipley; H. G. Poole, 
Bradford. Disqualified 7. Lund. 

TomBueERs.--Short-faced._1, E. Horner. 2, W. Harvey. he, W. Lund; E. 
Horner. c, H. Yardley. Common.—ti, W. Harvey. 2, H. Beldon. he, A. Bent- 
dey, Baildon. c, W. Lund. 

AnTWERPS.—1, E. Horner. 2, W. Lund. he, J. W. Collinson, Halifax; W. 
Lund; J. Cundall, Gopt Hewick, Ripon. c, W. Firth. 

FAnvarus.—1, W. H. Tomlinson, Newark-on-Trent. 2, W. C. Dawson. he, H. 
Beldon; B. Horner. 

Owzs.—1, W. Harvey. 29,E.Horner. hc, W. C. Dawson ; H. Beldon. 

ANY OTHER VanreTy.—l, J. Cundall. 2, W..C. Dawson. vhe, H. Yardley ; 
W. Bearpark, Nqrthallerton. he, H. Beldon; J. Kirkbright, Bradford; J. Cun- 
dall; T. Speight, Bradford (Dragoons). 


The Judges were—for Poultry, My. R. Teebay, Fulwood, Preston ; 
for Pigeons, Mr. E. Hutton, Pudsey, Leeds. 


ld, Burnley; E. Newbitt. Cock.— 


PRIZE MONEY AT THE LATE THIRSK BIRD 
SHOW. 


Ar the above Show, held December 28th and 29th, 1870, I was an 
exhibitor; the Judge awarded me two first and three third prizes, and 
not receiving my prize money within four or five weeks after the Show 
closed, I wrote to Mr. Bailey, the Secretary, respecting it, and at last 
had a reply, of which this is a copy. “March 7th, 1871. Sir, I 
intend paying all prize money as soon as I get prize money call in, 
which I expect will be in about a week.—Yours, &e., T. Bamuy.” 
Although six weeks have elapsed since Mr. Bailey wrote the above 
note, and nearly four months have elapsed since the Thirsk Bird Show 
was held, I haye received neither money nor any other note from him, 
and I believe no other prizewinners from Middlesbrough have seen 
the colour of his coin, and those who haye written him haye cither 
had their letters ignored or been similarly treated to myself. If I do 
not receive my prize money by the end of this month, April, I shall 


t 


The Barbs were | 
| 94, Marton Road, Middlesbrough-on- Tees. 


| 


H 


put the matter into the hands of my solicitor.—RicHarp Hawman, 


THE STROUD POULTRY SHOW. 


Permit me to echo the wish of your correspondent, ‘“An Op Ex- 
HipiTor,” that the Stroud Poultry Show and that of the Bath and 
West of England Society at Guildford may be prevented from falling 
on the same days. As a member of the Society I am bound to sup- 
port the latter, although I should have liked to help a poultry show in 
my own county by sending six or seven pens, and I hoped to have seen 
the show also. But, as ‘‘An O_p Exurerror” incontrovertibly 
argues, neither exhibition poultry nor their owners possess the power 
of ubiquity. The Stroud Show will suffer to a greater or less extent 
if the time fixed for it cannot be altered; in fact, the two exhibitions 
will mutually injure each other, which is to be regretted.—Guouczs- 
TERSHIRE. 


GREAT HARWOOD SHOW. 


We, the Secretary and Treasurer of the Great Harwood Agricultural 
Society, have had brought under our notice a letter in your issue of 
the 6th of April, from Mr. Yardley, of Birmingham, complaining that 
his best Carrier hen and best pair of Barbs were not in the pen at the 
time of judging. On referring to our officer, who has been connected 
with our Society for many years, we are assured that all kinds of 
poultry, inclusive of Pigeons, were penned long before the Judge com- 
menced his duties. Secondly, all poultry, inclusive of Pigeons, were 
penned according to catalogue. Thirdly, Mr. Yardley’s birds were 
penned as soon as they arrived, and prior to the Judge commencing 
his labours. They were also fed as early as convenient, and further, 
they were also housed. fed, and properly cared for during the night of 
Thursday, and dispatched on Friday morning, arriving, according to 
Mr. Yardley’s letter, at their destination at 7.40 Pp... on Friday even- 
ing allright. Mr. Yardley’s letter contains a grave charge against the 
officers of this Society, and from evidence in their possession they 
require a retraction.—Jamns DEarpen, Treasurer; ASPINALL CLAY- 
ton, Secretary. 

[As legal proceedings are threatened by Mr. Hewitt and others, we 
must decline inserting anything more on the subject. Mr. Hewitt 
declined acting as Judge any more at the Great Harwood Show.—Ebs. | 


NOTES FROM MY CANARY ROOM—No. 5. 


Any eggs ‘‘chipped” yet? Little ‘raw gobbies”’ should be 
plentiful by this time. If my directions have been carried 
out, the thirteenth morning following the sitting of the hen will 
have ushered into existence the helpless little strangers, for 
with the confidence of that model matron, Mrs. Gill, you may 
back the bird ‘‘ agen Moore’s Almanack, to name the very day 
amd hour.” The young mother will have done her duty in 
fitting-up the cradle, but I am afraid I have been somewhat 
remiss in not furnishing an inventory of articles for the basket. 
It reminds me of my old friend again. ‘‘ Don’t say its you Mr. 
Whilks, and that poor creetur Mrs. Whilks with not even a pin- 
cushion ready. Don’t say its you, Mr. Whilks.” Well, it is 
rather an anxious time, especially for beginners, and I can 
enter into the feelings of a friend, who with grave countenance 
retired to the quiet of his domestic circle at an early hour the 
other evening, because he expected a hen to chip in the morning ! 

The great event over, the main question for the next week is 
to see that the young birds are well fed. But a comparatively 
small per-centage of those hatched are reared. It all depends 
upon whether the hen will feed well. The cock always will, but 
if the hen will neither feed nor leave the nest to give the cock a 
chance of popping a morsel into their gaping mouths, a conse- 
quence too familiar to Canary breeders quickly follows. 

Have ready some hard-boiled eg, which pass through the 
egg box, a simple frame about 8 or 9 inches square covered with 
perforated zinc. It is a more expeditious and thorough method 
than chopping it. Mix with some crumb of stale bread, either 
dry or soaked, and well squeezed. Let there be more egg than 
bread at first, but add more bread as the birds grow older. 
Instead of bread crumbs, sweet biscuit, arrowroot biscuit, or 
water biscuit may be used, and a little crushed hempseed 
added; but if the birds get too fond of the latter, it is diffieult 
to discontinue it. Supply this food fresh not less than three 
times a-day, with a sprig or two of nice, fresh, young groundsel 
or chickweed, or 2 leaf of lettuce when it is to bo had. 

If the hen be in good health she will almost immediately 
begin to feed, and though the young birds can live for the first 
twenty-four hours of their existence on nothing, or next to no- 
thing, I like to see the hen ask them if they are hungry as soon 
as they are chipped. Should she refuse to feed, mix a little of 
the hard-boiled yolk witha little saliva, and give it tothe young 
ones little and offen, and it will frequently happen that after 


2 


314 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. ‘[ April 27, 1871. 


assisting in this way for a day or two, seconded by the coek, 
who will always watch his opportunity to give them a mouth- 
ful, the hen seems to overcome her disinclination to feed, and 
things go on famously; but there is all the difference imagin- 
able between a nest whlch is well and regularly fed, and one 


attended to by fits and starts. Continue this diet till next 
week.—W. A. Buaxston. 


HERMAPHRODITE BEES. 


I nerEwits enclose another hermaphrodite bee of a different 
type than the last. I noticed several errors in my last article 
on these bees. It read as if it was the worker that had the 
curved sting, whereas it is the queen that possesses that pro- 
perty. Also the heat was stated to be 80°, but ought to have 
been 8°, being 24° of frost.—A Lanarxsoire Bre-KEEPER. 


[ We forwarded the specimen to Frederick Smith, Esq., of the 
British Museum, who has kindly sent us the result of his 
inspection. 

‘““With regard to the bee received, I must say that the inter- 
mixture of sex is not so marked as in the specimen I received 
a short time ago. The head is that of a male—in fact, it is 


ouly the left posterior leg that exhibits the worker form; both 
the antenn@ are male, 


‘There is a paper by Professor Siebold io Kolliker’s ‘ Zeil- 
schrift,’ 1864, page 73, ‘On Hermaphrodite Bees.’ It appears 
that a hive sometimes contains numbers of these monstrosities, 
and that the degree of mixture of sex is infinite, frequently only 
presenting itself in a single organ—the mandible, eye, antenna, 
or a single leg. The remarks are upon hives of the Italian 
bee. It is stated that ‘ these hermaphrodite bees are seized by 
the workers at the moment of their issning from the cells, and 
thrown out of the hive.’ The queen of the hive that produced 
these hermaphrodites was pure Italian, and five years old.”] 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Sane oF Pouutry (Duckling).—There are none sold in Covent Garden. 
Write to some salesman in Leadenhall Market. 


Dark Braumas (T. Rains).—You had better write to the advertiser; we 
cannot find space for the correspondence. 


PULLET NoT SEEING Foop (H. V.).—Your pullet is nearly blind. The 
complaint she has is in most cases hereditary, and used to be known in 
former years as being Jerry-eyed, becvnse a celebrated cock named Jerry, 
the property of Mr. Sturgeon, was afilicted in that way. If you examine 
the eye minutely, you will easily see the defect. It is a defect,and an 
obliquity of vision; the bird can see to avoid anything, but cannot see 
straightly enough to pick up a grain of corn. 

GUINEA Fowis not Exu1BiTep (Z£. H.).—There is nothing to show in 
Gninea Fowls. There are no distinguishing marks. They are unprofit- 
able to keep. There can be no judgment; Cesar and Pompey are so 
very much alike. 


Cock with SwotLEN Moor (Poultry).—If he is not very valuable, or if 
heis not essential to your yard, kill him. He will only lead to disap- 
pointment. 


Krepine Eees ror Srirtine (One Who Reckons Her Chickens).—We 
never trouble ourselves about the position of the eggs. We make ita 
rule to put them under the hen while they are very fresh, and do not 
believe under the circumstances it matters at all a‘ out the position in 

' which they lie en attendant. Créve-Cceur eggs are not more unfertile than. 
others. The breed differs only from many others by being non-sitters. 
At the same time we are bound to admit Brahmas and Cochins hatch 
wonderfully. While we are on the subject, we will add one word—the ex- 
perience of this season has convinced us that Dorkings are the best 
mother? of any of our large breeds. 


PREPARING Fowrs For Exnrpitien (Tally-o).—All that is necessary 
to prepare fowls for exhibition is to feed them well and keep them clean. 
In breeding Game Bantams the necessity is to, reduce the size, and the 
difficulty is to keep all the attributes and points of the Jarge bird, 
borrowing only diminutive size from the Bantam. <A crooked breast is 
always a disqualification in a Game fowl. 


Mosr ProrrraBLe Fowts (A Subscriber, W. R. H. P.).—You must be 
more explicit before we can answer your question. How do you propose 
to make your fowls profitable ?—by the sale of them at market for table 
purposes, or by the sale of eggs? If you want a good hardy fowl of all 
work, keep the Brahma Pootra. If you patronise the “upper ten 
thousand,” try the Dorking. 


Fow ts versus Ducks (——).—We do not admire your feeding, you fall 
into a common error. You give a quantity of indifferent food in order to 
satisfy the hunger of your Ducks, but there is not sufficient stay in it. 
Indian meal is bad feeding, and the thirds do not much improve it. 
They do not want their food scalded with hot water. If your Ducks are 
fed in confinement, give them oatmeal or whole oats put in a shallow 
vessel of water. If at liberty, throw them whole oats on the ground close 
to the water. 


RoyaL Dustin Socrery’s Pourtry SHow —‘ The name of the ex- 
hibitor whoze birds were disqualified for trimming in the Game classes, is 
Mr. G. A. Perrin. A large number of the backle feathers had been cut 
ont. In that part of the report which refers to Pouter Pigeons, read 
7| inches in place of 9}.—Your REPORTER.” 


Cramp IN PicEons (JV. M.).—Cramp is caused by cold or damp. Give 


youn young bird hempseed in its food, and place it in a warmer situ- 
ation. 


BLvuE JAcosBIns (R. M. Smith).—The last Blue Jacobins we saw were, if 
our memory Serves us right, at the last Southampton Show. We have 
sent your letter to more than one Pigeon fancier but without success. 
An advertisement would be the only way to bring you what you want, 
2s if Blue Jacobins are to be had, some one possessing them would either 
see or hear of the advertisement. 


PIGEONS Losine Featuers, &c. (W. T. S.).—We fear your birds are not 
moulting, but have the rot feather, which liberty, the bath, and change 
of food may help to cure. You: Barb’s disease arises from cold; put 
him in a warmer place and giye him stimulating food, such as hemp- 

eed. 

_Canary Eecs UnFertive (4 Novice).—The onus rests with the male 
bird. Try another. You can easily determine whether it be a Goldfinch 
Mule by its general resemblance to the Goldfinch, principally about the 
head, which will bear the crimson “ flourish ” in a greater or less degree. 
If it be a Mule, it is of no use except as a song bird. 


Incupators (Ignoramus).—There have been manyinyented, but not one 


has proved useful. They have been tried by many, and invariably their 
use abandoned. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN Square, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Date. | 


9 A.M. In THE Day. 
gud o | |Shade Tem- palate 
is7l. | 3° 32 yerome, Diree- | Temp. a aeratatas Tempe &i 
_ \oser aR tion |oflof Soil) == ss || une a ee 
April. |3 2358 : In | On 
ass sun. | grass 
deg. | deg. | In. 
We. 19 90.0 | 49.4 | 0.966 
Th. 20 | 890 | 89.0 | 0.050 
Fri. 21 94.0 | 42.7 | 0.040 
Sat. 22 99.2 | 43.4 | 0.020 
Sun.23 112.0 | 42.3 | 0.030 
Mo, 24 71.0 | 38.2 = 
Tu. 25 85.3. | 39.0 | — 
Means | 2 91.5 | 42.0 | 0.206 


REMARKS. 


19th.—Rain in the night and till noon, fine afternoon though there were 
slight showers, lightning at 4.15 p.u., but fine evening. 

20th.—Heavy rain from 8 to 9 s.M., occasional showers till 5 P.m., then 
fine, shower at 10 P.m., but soon over. 

21st.—Very fine till noon, then cloudy and dull, rain between 5 and 6P.M., 
and damp all the evening. 

22nd.—Rain at 850 and till 2 p.m., then clearei off, evening rather dull. 

23rd.—Fine in early morning, rain at 9.50 a.n., the fine rain again at 5.50, 
but fine evening. v 

24th.—Rather dull all day, but without rain. 

25th.—Dull and heavy, but with occasional sunshine.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—ApRIL 26. 

Some improvement has taken place in the demand during the past 
week, but not sufficient to cause any advance in prices, business being 
generally of a steady character. A considerable quantity of late Apples 
are still offered, such as Golden Knob, Deux Ans, and Gooseberry Pippin. 
Dessert varieties, however, are not so plentiful. Pears are nearly over 


for this season. Markets for old Potatoes are very beavy, and large con- 


signments of Lisbon and Maltese new ones are to hand, ranging from 
20s. to 3.s. per cwt. 


FRUIT. 

Syd5) 08.00 s.d. 8. ad 
1 6to3 0 Ib. 0 0to0 0 
7 00 00 Si Wf) te 
EO Oe) 100 6 9 10 0 
0 0 18 G doz. 40 0 60 0 
00.00 od 1) ot 0) 
yah Os Ons O00) =) OO 0s 0 
OROG FOn0 pO) et) 
ONO 2510, 00 on 
20 2 6 Z-\ 0) 0) 5 01,0 
10 1 6| Raspbe 6 lb 00 00°F 
8 0 18 Q| Strawberries -.0z. 06 1 0 
6 0 10 0 | Walnnts. shel10 0 16 0 
00 00 ditto... -p100 10 20 

VEGETABLES. 
s.d. 5s. @ s.d, 8. @ 
Artichokes...-......d0z. 4 0to6 0| Leeks ..........05 bunch 0 4to0 6 
Asparagus .. - #100 4 0 8S 0} Lettuce .. Boose ah Ww) ) WD 
Beans, Kidney #100 1 0 2 O| Mushrooms...... pottle 1 0 2 6 
Broad.... bushel 0 0 O 0} Mustard&Cress..punnet 0 2 0 0 
Beet, Red.. 2 0 8 0} Onions .......... bushel 7 9 10 0 
Broccoli ........ a Wy at @ pickling. -.-quart 0 0 00 
Brussels Sprouts..ssieve 0 0 0 0} Parsley... sieve 8 0 6 0 
Cabbage............ doz. 1 0 2 0} Parsnips ..doz. 09 10 
Capsicums . -#7100 0 0 O 0} Peas.... quart S$ 0 10 0 
Carrots.... bunch 0 4 0 8| Potatoes... .-bushel 2 0 4 0 
Cauliflower ‘SiOl Sin 0: Kidney............d0. 8 0 4 0 
Celery... 1 6 2 0} Radishes..doz.bunches 0 6 10 
Colewort: 8 0 6 0} Rhubarb..........bundle 0 4 10 
Cucumbers ........each 0 6 1 6] Savoys. .. Soooclys ol GE) i 
ickling .. -. doz. 0 0 O 0} Sea-kale..........basket 20 8 0 
Endive.... ..doz. 2 0 O 0| Shallots..............lb, 0 6 O 9 
Fennel .. bunch 0 8 0 0} Spinach.... 80 50 
Garlic «-- lb, 0 8 O 0} Tomatoes .......... 00 00 
Herbs... bunch 0 8 @ 0} Turnips .......... 096 O06 
Horseradish .... bundle 3 0 6 0! Vegetable Marrows..doz. 0 0 0 0 


May 4, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 815 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day Average Fempera- |Rainin| Sun | Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s| Clock | Day 
earn Rae MAY 4—10, 1871. ture near London. 43 years) Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | sets. Age. Cues | nou 
Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. | m. h. | m. h. | m. h.|m. h.| Days | m. 38.| 
4 | TH | Meeting of Royal and Linnean Societies. 62.4 | 88.5 | 50.5 16 29 af4 | 26 af7 | 54af6 | 36 af4 Oo | 8 22) 124 
5 | F 62.9 | 89.0 | 50.9 22, 2B 4127 28) 8) | 2B ae ie Banari 125 
Gees 62.3 | 88.5 | 50.4 16 25 4/29 7/49 9 | 32 5 16 | 8 83 | 126 
7 | Sun | 4 Sunpay aArreR EASTER. 60.3 | 89.4 | 49.8 18 24 4/30 7] noon.|10 6 17 8 37 | 127 
8 M Meeting of Royal Geographical Society, | 62.6 | 39.6 | 51.1 18 92 4/32 7/16 O|} 57 6 18 8 42 | 128 
Oe) Lu; [8.80 p.m. | 62.6 | 89.9 | 51.2 19 QU ABS a: NB PLO) es 7 19 3 45 | 129 
10 Ww Meeting of Society of Arts, 8 p.m, 62.4 | 40.1 | 51.3 21 19 4/35 7) 47 #21 | abba ts) 20 3 43 | 130 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 62.2°, and its night tem- 
ee ee: The greatest heat was 84°, on the 6th, 1862; and the lowest cold 20°, on the 6th, 1865. The greatest fall of rain was 
1.26 inch. 


FORM AND COLOUR—No. 1. 


ORM, its effect upon our minds, our lives, our 
very actions—do we, or haye we fully realised 
it in its full force and power? Who has not 
felt its subtle influence or yielded to its allure- 
ments? All bow to its sway, and follow its 
leading in one way or another, for it presents 
itself to us in such an endless variety that it 
is not at all difficult to understand why its 
power must be universal. To some it best 
displays itself in the grandeur of mountain 

scenery, where huge rocks rear high their massive crests, 
towering into the clouds, which at times rival them in the 
grandeur of their aspect, and certainly excel them in the 
varied beauty of their changing colours—or in the spreading 
landscape gently undulating, intersected by watercourses, 
and dotted with snug homesteads; the teeming fields or 
crowded stackyards proclaiming the fertility of the soil, 
and the industry of those who tend it; the entire scene 
breathing of peace, contentment, and prosperity. ‘To others 
it displays itself in the huge proportions of colossal timber 
trees, or in the elegant symmetry of plants of more lowly 
growth. The lovers of birds, of insects, or of any of the 
wonders of creation are all sensible of its beauty and power 
in a greater orlessdegree. Its influence knows no bounds, 
for it attracts us by its wonderful development in everything 
in nature, and leads our minds upwards to contemplate 
things infinite. Butit also has a more numerous following 
in those who admire works of art the result of mechanical 
skill, or whatever is just in proportion or possesses the 
requisite fitness for its purpose. The higher the finish of 
such work, the nearer the approach to perfection, the greater 
the appreciation of those whose minds are sufficiently 
cultivated to appreciate its beauty. It must be owned that 
beauty does not invariably imply fitness. A thing may be 
very suitable for its purpose, and yet be destitute of beauty, 
but I know no reason why the two may not always be 
combined. Beauty has been defined as the moment of 
transition, as if the form were just ready to flow into other 
forms, and he who can best combine efficiency and finish, 
so as to produce beauty in his work, is likely to succeed 
best in what he does. 

The subject is a wide and tempting one, and withal so 
important that I hesitate to try to grapple with it, and yet 
it is this very feeling which urges one on, giving one some 
slight idea of the great importance of a correct knowledge 
of a power so mighty, and which, when rightly understood 
and applied, must tend materially to contribute to one’s 
success in ornamental gardening. 

Passing along a magnificent avenue of noble old Fir 
trees lately, I was much impressed by the entire fitness 
and propriety of every feature of it—the dense mass of 
sombre foliage was borne high overhead, and the ample 
width of the grand drive passing along between the lines 
of these fine trees imparted an air of expansiveness, keep- 
ing the front ranks of trees on either side so far apart as 
to display their huge forms to the best advantage. 


No. 527.—Vou. XX., NEw SERIES, 


T have | 
been up the Long Walk at Windsor, and through the : 


splendid avenue of Horse Chestnuts in Bushy Park, and 
in many other avenues of fine trees, but in none of them 
was I so much impressed with the power of form as in this 
avenue of Scotch Firs. It was, doubtless, a fine sight 
when the trees were young and feathered with branches to 
the ground, but now incomparably finer—the immense boles 
like the rows of stately pillars in some old cathedral, so 
massive and yet so symmetrical, that I could not but think 
the planter must have foreseen the effect, and been able 
fully to realise the power and beauty of form when thus 
developed. 

In planting groups and belts of shrubs, the future and 
more permanent effect to be produced should be well con- 
sidered. Shrubs planted in borders or each side of paths 
of gravel or turf are almost certain to produce a pleasing 
effect for a few years if they are healthy and tolerably well 
arranged ; but if such shrubbery borders are to increase in 
beauty with the advance of time, as they ought to do, very 
much care and thought must be exercised first of all in the © 
selection of the plants, and’ in planting them so far apart 
that they may have ample space to grow naturally, or to 
be rendered, by means of skilful pruning and training, fine 
symmetrical specimens, which shall, when they approach 
maturity and their growth attains its full development, 
stand so well back from the sides of the path that each 
form may have its due effect, and its beauty be fully ap- 
preciated. The importance of this must be insisted upon ; 
shrubs planted thickly in the first instance look very well 
for a time, but if they are not constantly thinned with 
great care they soon become so crowded that all individu- 
ality is lost, the growth of each plant becomes merged in 
that of its neighbours, and a confused thicket is the result, 
not altogether devoid of beauty, it may be, because some 
of the charms of form are still present in the foliage and 
young growth. : 

There is a power of much importance in the form of 
foliage. I was much impressed at Battersea Park with 
the strong appreciation of this so evident in the selection 
of the shrubs clothing the sheltering slopes of the sub- 
tropical garden, none of them having very large foliage: 
hence the effect of the huge leaves of the tropical plants is 
much enhanced, appearing by such cleverly-managed con- 
trast to be even larger and more stately than they other- 
wise would do. It is this keen appreciation of the power 
of one form on that of another, either in the contrast or 
harmony of the foliage or growth, or, as is more commonly 
the case, in the combined effect of the two, which enables 
the landscape gardener to produce combinations of elegant 
forms so skilfully arranged and so well placed that the 
sight of them produces an agreeable effect from whatever 
point they are viewed. , 

Important as is the work of selecting and arranging 
shrubs in groups and along borders, it becomes even more 
so when they are required for planting on a lawn as single 
specimens. Unless there is a special object in view, such 
as “planting-out” offices or concealing any objectionable 
feature, all shrubs should be kept well away from the 
house, and the lawn should have a clear unbroken expense 
in proportion to the size of the building it is near; then its 

No, 1179.—Vou. XLY., OLD SERrEs. 


316 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 4, 1871. 


surface should be dotted with shrubs selected for the elegance 
of their growth and foliage, coniferous plants being best adapted 
for such 2 purpose. These single specimens dispersed thinly, 
yet in graceful order, so as to avoid all tendency to the formality 
of straight lines, should serve to lead us onward to mixed 
groups of flowering shrubs, and others grown for the beauty of 
their foliage. Here the work acquires an additional interest; 
colour, always important, and without which the most elegant 
form would appear tame and spiritless, now for a time stands 
first, and yet while we strive to produce pleasing combinations 
ofcolour, the influence of form is never absent from our minds. 
In selecting flowering shrubs, amongst the most eligible are 
Daphnes, Azaleas, Lilacs, Berberises, and many others which 
with their gay flowers tend so much to brighten the months of 
Spring ; but none of them can compare with the Rhododendron 
for producing bold gorgeous masees of colour, to which a back- 
ground of sombre-hued Pinuses serves to impart an air of 
grandeur and richness. Here, too, the Rose most worthily 
claims 2 place as pre-eminently combining in its lovely flowers 
form and colour in the highest degree of excellence. The pliant 
nature of its growth also admits of each plant being trained 
to most perfect symmetzy. 

_{t is questionable whether such groups are best liked when 
introduced to relieve the sameness of a wide expause of lawn, 
the very introducticn of them there proclaiming the general 
fondness of variety, and the dislike to the tameness of unbroken 
flat surfaces : therefore, in designing a shrubbery, an undulating 
surface is to be preferred, because it gives greater scope for the 
exercise of taste; it affords many more facilities for producing 
a series of beautiful scenes, thoroughly diversified, and which, 
if well contrived, are quite certain to ba more generally appre- 
ciated, for the very reason that all naturally most admire un- 
dulating surfaces and yreceful flowing lines: hence the im- 
portance of a thorough knowledge of the power of graceful forms 
when seen under different aspects. 

In considering this power in its reletion to the vegetable king- 
dom, Ihave given precedence to trees and shrubs, because of 
the dignity, strength, and grandeur of many of them. Noy are 
these properties usually developed at the expense of symmetry, 
for whether we look upon the huge growth and massive strength 
of the trees flourishing in our own climate, or upon the more 
slender yet elegant growth of tropical vegetation, the fitness of 
each for the position assigned it in Nature, the air of dignity 
on the one hand and of elegance on the other, must always 
impress the mind favourably.—Evwarp Lucknunst. 


FRUIT PROSPECTS. 


TuHE late severe weather has been most unpropitious for the 
fruit crop. Blossom of all kinds is most profuse, but fruit of 
miway kinds will be scanty. For three consecutive nights the 
thermometer registered 12° below freezing, each night being 
succeeded by a day of unclouded brilliancy. The crop of Peaches 
and Apricots, where unprotected, is nearly destroyed; Pears 
have suffered considerably. The present appearance of the 
trees is very fine, but very deceptive. Many blossoms have 
expanded since more favourable weather set in, but on exami- 
nation the pistils and ovaries are black and decayed. Some of 
the later blossoms, however, are sound and healthy, and a fair 
sprinkling of fruit is expected. Apples, Plums, and Cherries 
do not appear to be extensively injared; but Gooseberries and 
Currants are terribly shattered. The weather at the time of 
writing is by no means genial—wind easterly; barometer, 
falling, 29.70. A great deal of rain is due, the fall from the 
beginning of the year to the present date being only 4.30 inches, 
and half of this was from melted snaw. 

Since writing the above I have inspected the fruit garden of 
“C. C,H.” Itis just now a magnificent sight. Could some 
of the perfectly-formed bloom-laden specimens of fruit trees 
be transferred to and intermixed with the shrubs in pleasure 
grounds, how they would brighten up the spectacle of the some- 
what sombre masses,and add cheerfulness, and life, and pleasure 
to the general effec). The Apple blossom is not quite expanded, 
but the Plums, Pears, and Cherries are glorious in their lovely- 
tinted mantle of blossom; and not only is the general effect 
of the long lines of beauty striking to witness, but an individual 
examination of the several trees telle one how thoroughly good 
they are. Wver improving by carefully eliminating varieties 
which do not come up to a high standard of excellence, and 
largely increasing the number of kinds of special merit and 
usefalness, the able and energetic owner will soon be in a 
position to show what a fruit garden should be, and to give 


accurate and valuable information of the returns dezivable from 
large quantities of trees, founded not only on the multiplication 
table, but on actual practice and the incontrovertible process 
of weighing the fruit. A characteristic, and a valuable one, of 
the trees in this garden is their sturdy habit and rigid limb- 
like branches. These, from their base to their extremities, are 
crowded with blossom, and if crowded with fruit the frame- 
work of the trees is strong enough to carry it without the 
bending of branches, s0 common and so objectionable. The 
early-expanded Pear blossom is injured, but more than enough 
has escaped the frost to insure heavy crops. The Plums 
and Cherries are not hurt atall. Tho few trees of Peaches and 
Apricots are crowded with fruit, having been protected by can- 
vas blinds worked by rollers and pulleys and other effectual 
contrivances. The wind has at last shifted from the east, 
refreshing showers have fallen, and the weather is more genial 
and spring-like.—J. W., Lincolnshire. 


THE GOLDEN PYRETHRUM. 


I can testify to the truth of what your correspondent, Mr. 
Thomas, says concerning the above-named plant, and especially 
when he states that it is one of the most effective plants for the 
spring flower garden. I know it has been condemned and dis- 
carded by many people, and I think too hastily, for beyond its 
summer attractions, if the plants can be so arranged in summer 
as to come in without much interruption for spring bedding they 
give a cheerful and bright appearance to the flower garden such 
as no other plant can excel. In many paris of the country, 
however, it does not pass the winter without considerable loss, 
particularly when the natural soil is heavy and badly drained ; 
for I consider that it is from wet more than frost that the 
plants die. In a deeply cultivated gravelly soil it has, as I have 
seen in many places this spring, withstood the severe winter 
without injury, has been the most attractive and highly-praised 
plant of any for spring decoration, and is increasing in beauty 
daily. Its effect is increased, too, by the healthy green the 
lawn has lately assumed through the growing showers of April. 

I think that a dry autumn and a slow growth are as favourable 
to this Pyrethrum as any other hardy plant for passing success- 
fully through a severe winter. The plants to which I allude 
as being so beautiful now were little else than naked stumps 
last January. Some plants when commencing to grow in March 
will break more weakly than others, so that a little re-arrange- 
ment is necessary, otherwise I advise as little interference as 
possible.—THomas Recorp. ; 


HOP CULTIVATION FOK ORNAMENT AND USE. 
No. 5. 

Red Spider seldom attacks the Hop, yet it did so rather 
severely in 1868. Sulphur seems to have little effect on it, but 
this remedy has been but little tried. 

A more destructive enemy is a sort of flea or weevil, which 
eats into the Hop itself, causing it to turn black, and doing a 
great deal of damage. There seems to be no remedy for this but 
picking the crop as soon as possible, as the operations of the 


-insect are beyond the reach of anything that may be applied. 


The other insects which injure the Hop are not important. 
Two or three kinds of caterpillars eppear to give this plant a 
preference, but they are not numerous enough to create alarm. 

Hor-rrckine AND Dryinc.—I now come to the picking and 
drying—very important processes, the former requiring the aid 
of a great number of workpeople; and the employment being 
of a kind that anyone may engage in, great numbers of the 
lower class of London poor come down every year to assist in 
the operation, bringing their little ones with them. They are 
generally lodged in sheds often built on purpose away from the 
farm buildings, on account of the danger from fire, as the oceu- 
pants of such places are not always the most careful, and 
“Hopping time’ requires a more than ordinary outlook for 
dangers of thatkind. I will pass over the hubbubs which some- 
times occur at beershops at this season, as well as the crowding 
of provision shops on Saturday nights, and at once proceed to 
Hop gardens, where we shall see the pickers have commenced 
operations. A man called the pole-puller or binman cuts the 
bines of a number of poles about 2 feet or more from the 
ground, and with the aid of a tool made for the purpose of 
drawing the poles out of the ground, clears a place where the 
bins are put down. ‘These bins are a sort of skeleton frame on 
which a cloth is fixed, so as to make a trough about 6 feet long 
by 2 feet wide, and the same in depth. Into these the Hops 


er 


eR 


May 4, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 317 


are picked off separately from the vines, and measured and 
taken away at stated times during the day, the picker being 
paid by the piece. The rule in Kent is s0 many bushels to a 
shilling, varying from two or three in a bad year to eight or 
ten in one that is good. This arrangement is called the tally, 
and used formerly to be kept account of by veritable tallies, 
which have now entirely disappeared. ‘Tallies for the Hop 
garden were pieces of lath about 18 inches long and 2 or more 
broad, and were in pairs, one being held by the master or his 
bailiff and the other by the picker. A large number were 
wanted in a Hop garden. Tho bailiff or the booker had his lot 
all strung together by a cord running through a hole at one end 
and thrown over his back; and when the Hops of a picker, say 
No. 17, were measured, the tally of that number was looked 
out, and No. 17 also produced his or her tally, which was of 
precisely the same description as that of the booker; and these 
tallies being laid together, a notch was cut in each by the same 
cut either of a knife or small saw, and this being repeated 
every time a measurement was made, both master and picker 
kept an account. Notches made or removed in either tally would 
be easily seen when they were put together; hence, no doubt, 
originated the very common phrase ‘ They did not tally.” 
This plan, I believe, lingered on amongst some elderly people 
until thirty or forty years ago, but it may be said to have fairly 
died out, and small books prepared on purpose are now used ; 
but I may remark that tallies were not confined to the Hop 
garden in former days, for they were used in the Exchequer, 
and it was the burning of these tallies which was the cause 
of the fire that consumed the Houses of Parliament upwards 
of thirty years ago. 

Finding that a large quantity of Hops are gathered and on 
their way to the Hop kilu, which in Kent is called the oast 
house, let us inspect the contrivances used for drying them. 

As the season at which Hops are harvested in this country 
affords no chance of their being dried in the sun, and as, in 
fact, they are more frequently gathered when wet with rain or 
dew than when dry, artificial means must be adopted to expel 
the superfluous moisture. For this purpose fire heat in some 
form is indispensable, and various modes have been resorted to 
in applying it, each with the view of economising fuel. After 
various contrivances have been adopted recourse is often had 
to the old mode at last. The kiln in most general use is cir- 
cular, or there are a number of circular kilns surrounding, or 
partly surrounding, a square building of considerable size. 
These are often from 12 to 16 feet in diameter, with brick or 
stone walls from 16 to 20 feet high, and a steep-pitched conical 
roof of flat tiles made on purpose. Instead of the roof termi- 
nating in a point it does so where it is about 3 feet in diameter, 
so as to leave a clear opening of upwards of 2 feet, upon which 
a cowl moveable by the wind is placed, so as to exclude the 
rain, yet allow of the escape of the steam from the Hops which 
are being dried. The drying floor for them is from 12 to 
15 feet or more from the ground, and is made by one or two 
strong timber beams crossing the circle, over which are laid 
the smaller ones called laths, which are quarterings of about 
3 inches by 2 inches laid edgewise at about 3 inches apart. 
Over the open latticework thus formed a hair cloth is fixed, no 
hempen or other textile material being able to stand the fire; 
and I may say the wood used is also of the most incombustible 
nature, being poplar, and it is surprising how even that with- 
stands the heat, although accidents sometimes happen. Access 
to the drying kiln is obtained from the adjoining loft, through 
which the Hops are carried to be laid on, or withdrawn when 
dried. They are placed quite a foot thick, so that a kiln 16 feet 
in diameter will hold about two hundred bushels, which will 
require from eight to eleyen hours to dry; but the fire being 
kept on night and day, the kilns are loaded about twelve times 
a-week, unless very wet weather impedes the picking. - 

I now come to the fires, which are of course below on the 
ground, and in most cases are in open flat grates raised about 
18 inches from the surface. If there is only one fire it is about 
the centre, and quite open, with merely a piece of sheet iron, 
4 feet square or so, hung by chains from the joists about 
midway between the fire and the drying loft; this is to divert 
the heated air round the edges rather than allow it all to pass 
directly up the centre. From this description it will be seen 
that the heat from the fire passes through the hair cloth and 
the body of Hops above it, and some will imagine that the 
smoke will do so also; but as only charcoal, coke, and Welsh 
coal are used there is no visible smoke. At a certain period of 
the drying process a quantity of brimstone in rolls is put on 
the fire to give what is called a good colour tothe Hops. What- 


ever may be said against the practice—and I do not uphold it 
—there is no question as to its bleaching power. So long as 
the eye is the principal sense to be gratified, it is likely this 
mode of ‘‘ getting up” the article will be continued. 

In drying, the man in charge attends to his fixe, keeping 
rather @ slow one at first, lest the Hops nearest to the hair cloth 
receive too much heat, but in time he increases the heat when 
the weight of the mass is lessened by the steam being driven 
off ; and occasionally feeling with the hend will show whether 
the Hops are fit to turn or not, for it must be observed that 
the heat from below dries those at the bottom, while those at 
the top are still wet. Just before all are quite dry they are 
turned, and soon afterwards they are iaken off the kiln and 
laid on the adjoining Joft, which is usually called the stowage, 
to cool before being packed, and a fresh lot is put on to undergo 
the same process. The men in charge remain at their post 
night and day, sleeping on extemporised beds. They have also 
to pack the Hops in the bags, and it frequently occasions sur- 
prise how so light an article can be packed so tightly without 
the aid of machinery, as all Hops were until within the last 
few years, and many are yet. 

The pressing machinery I need not describe, but hand-bagging 
is simple enough. A bag of suitable size having been made, 
its mouth is fastened into a strong wooden hoop which just fits 
it; and as the floor where the Hops are lying is an upstairs 
one, @ circular hole is’ prepared, into which the empty bag, 
called a pocket, is hung by the hoop at its top being a little 
larger than the hole in the floor. A few Hops are thrown into 
the bag, and a man gets into it and treads them firmly with 
his feet, more are added, and so on until the bag is full; but 
most large growers prefer a machine which does not break the 
Hops so much as treading. It does not appear thai more 
Hops can be put intos pocket in this way than by treading, 
but the latter work does not appear to a looker-on an enviable 
one.—J. Rogson. 


STRAWBERRIES THIS YEAR. 
“To be or not to be ?—that is the question.” ; 

OBSERVING in page 293 remarks upon the prospect of the 
Strawberry crop for the coming season, in which you apprehend 
a deficiency, judging from the appearance of the trusses—upon 
reading them I af once examined my plants, having been for 
several years a somewhat successful grower of that delicious 
fruit. My beds are not very large nor numerous, but I grow 
about five hundred plants, mostly of the British Queen anda 
few of Keens’ Seedling. The result of my examination, I am 
happy to say, did not coincide with the fears entertained by 
the writer of the remarks referred to, for, with the exception of 
the four-year-old bed, there is every prospect of an abundant 
crop. The plants look the picture of health, and the trusses 
are numerous and strong. The four-year-old bed is perhaps 
not quite so good, but for the time it has been worked I find 
no fault with it. 

My plan is to make a new bed every year, destroying the 
bed when the plants are four years old. I force the runners 
the first year, then plant them out, and work them for three 
years. My ground is of a stiff clayey description, and certainly 
suits the Strawberry. I give little or no manure, excepting 
when the bed is made. I cut off all the runners after the fruit- 
ing is over, excepting those required for forcing, and later in 
the summer, or at the beginning of autumn, I trim the plants 
neatly round, leaving the crown well protected by leaves, not 
adopting that barbarous custom of cutting off the leaves entirely 
and exposing the plants to the weather whatever it may be. 

As your readers are invited to give their ideas upon the 
Strawberry crop of this season, I have, as an amateur, de- 
scribed my method of growing this fruit. I may add that I do 
not. allow the roots to be much disturbed by the fork when 
turning the ground over between the rows, and I certainly 
think that manure should be applied very sparingly, as too 
rich ground produces only an abundance of leaves, with a short 


supply of trusses.—H. W. R. 


GARDENERS EXCHANGING. 


I syMpATHISE with the gardener, whoever he may be, who 
was fined a short time since for exchanging cuttings. No doubt 
he was legally wrong, but, then, it is and has been a custom 
from time immemorial, and in fact I do not know what most 
gardeners would do if it were not for this custom. It is gene- 
rally an understood thing between men and masters. 

A well-known head gardener stated in your last week’s issue 


318 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ Msy 4, 1871. 


that men should have in writing from their masters full per- 
mission to exchange cuttings. Now, this is quite right, and 
would protect gardeners from anything unpleasant that might 
occur, but it should be mentioned when the engagement takes 
place ; and who would like to bring forward such a subject, the 
essence of it being mistrust on the part of the gardener to- 
wards his master? I quite agree that in some cases such 
extremes are necessary, but where gentlemen and their gar- 
deners understand each other, word of mouth should be sufii- 
cient. I recommend all gardeners to have a clear understand- 
ing with their employers on the above subject, for it seems 
that what is done for mutual benefit and satisfaction proves 
dangerous.—Joun C. Lewis, Sudbury, Derby. 


(There need be no difficulty nor hesitation about a written 
understanding. We recommend every employer when he en- 
gages a gardener to give him in writing such a memorandum 
as this—‘‘I have no objection to exchanges, but consult me 
first.”—Eps ] 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 
May 3rp. 


Tue exhibition on this occasion, as a whole, well maintained the cha- 
racter of those which took place earlier in the year, the Conservatory, in 
which it was held, presenting bright and varied masses of colour, of 
which the fine specimen Roses furnished a large part. 

In the class for nine Roses in pots, Messrs. Paul & Son, of Ches- 
hunt, had the first prize for magnificent specimens of Charles Lawson, 
which is always fine, Madame Victor Verdier, Victor Verdier, Souvenir 
d’un Ami, Madame Willermoz, Marie Baumann, and Victor Verdier ; 
and Anna Alexieff and Céline Forestier very full of bloom, but. the 
flowers small. Mr. Turner, of Slough, who was placed second, had 
La France, Charles Lawson, Victor Verdier, and Vicomte Vigier in 
magnificent bloom, the flowers very fresh and bright, and the foliage 
luxuriant; Madame Eugéne Appert was also very fine. For six 
Roses, Messrs. Veitch had a first prize for Charles Lawson, in splendid 
condition; Paul Verdier, very fine; Thyra Hammerich, a beautiful 
light-coloured Rose; President, fine; Louis Van Houtte, and Mdlle. 
Marie Cirodde. There was no other exhibitor in this class. In the 
next, for three specimens, the first and second prizes were withheld, 
and the third awarded to Mr. James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., 
Isleworth. 

Azaleas, with but few exceptions, did not come up to the standard 
of former years, the plants being smaller, and many not nearly so 
well bloomed. The first prize for six was withheld, and a second prize 
awarded to Messrs. Dobson & Sons, of Isleworth, who had very well- 
flowered plants of Stella, Reine des Doubles particularly good, and 
Souvenir de l’Exposition. The best three specimens were two balloon- 
trained plants of Magnificent, white, and a pyramidal plant of Sym- 
metry, salmon rose. These stood about 3} feet high, and were in ex- 
cellent bloom. They came from Mr. Baldwin, gardenez to B. Drew, 
Esq., Streatham, and took the first prize; the second going to Mr. 
Woodward, gardener to Mrs. Torr, Garbrand Hall, Ewell, and the 
third to Mr. G. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart., Regent's 
Park. Mr. James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., sent with others 
a small spec’men of Iveryana, quite a mass of blossom. 

Prizes were offered for collections of six Orchids, but only two exhi- 
bitors came forward—yviz., Messrs. Rollisson and Mr. Bull, who took 
prizes in the order in which they are named. Messrs. Rollisson had a 
remarkably fine example of Saccolabium ampullaceum moulmeinense, 
Vanda tricolor with five spikes, Oncidiums, and Dendrobium Deyoni- 
anum, not, however, to be compared to Messrs. Veitch’s splendid spe- 
cimen. Mr. Bull exhibited Cypripedium caudatum with two fine 
flowers, Phalnopsis grandiflora, Vanda suavis, and others in good 
condition. 

Herbaceous Calceolarias were shown in Class 11. Here Mr. James 
was first with six well-grown plants, with large flowers, of an excellent 
strain. As these Caiceolarias are now almost entirely raised from 
seed, it is useless giving names. Mr. Hopper, gardener to E. D. Lee, 
Esq., Aylesbury, was second; Mr. Needle, gardener to the Comte de 
Paris, Twickenham, being third. 

Miscellaneous subjects were again shown in considerable numbers. 
Messrs. Veitch sent a very beautiful group of Roses, finely bloomed 
and remarkably fresh and bright; also a large group of Orchids and 
new plants. Among the former was a magnificent specimen of the 
lovely Dendrobium Deyonianum with three long spikes of blossom ; 
along with this were Vandas, including the whitish-tlowered V. Deni- 
soniana, Cypripediums, Odontoglossums, and Cclogyne pandurata. 
The other plants consisted of Palms, new Dracenas, Leptopteris 
Wilkesiana, varieties of Primula cortusoides, &e. Messrs. Rollisson, 

of Tooting, sent a large collection of Palms, Dracwnas, and Orchids. 
From Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord Londesberough, came a col- 
lection of Orchids, among which were fine specimens of Cypripedium 
caudatum, a beautiful variety of Odontoglossum Pescatorei, Oncidium 
altissimum, Vandas, Trichopilia coccinea, and a large mass of Cypri- 
pedium a batum. Mr. Bull also contributed an extensive group in 
which we noticed Sarracenia purpurea in flower, Palms, Cycads, 
Brownea erecta, numerous Orchids, and a large pan of Primula japonica, 


one of Mr. Fortune's introductions from Japan, haying magenta 
Phlox-like flowers in three whorls, which are very showy, and the plant 
is stated to be quite hardy. Mr. Turner had a large group of Roses 
and Azaleas interspersed with ornamental-leaved plants. Mr. Wheeler, 
gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart., sent large specimen Heaths and 
other stove and greenhouse plants; and Mr. Ware a charming group 
of spring flowers, intermixed with hardy ornamental-foliaged plants— 
a group even more effective than those he has shown at previous exhi- 
bitions, strikingas they were. From Mr. Williams, of Holloway, came 
a collection of Orchids, Azaleas, and fine-foliaged plants; from Mr. 
Wimsett, Ashburnham Park Nursery, Palms and Dracenas ; and from 
Messrs. Veitch a collection of ornamental-leayed Acers noticed in the 
report of the last show. 

Mr. Charles Noble, of Bagshot, sent a very striking collection of 
Clematises. Most of the varieties have been noticed in previous reports. 
Miss Bateman was again very fine. Mc. Needle, gardener to the 
Comte de Paris, again sent a collection of terrestrial Orchids, very 
interesting and creditable to his skill as a cultivator. Mr. Turner 
contributed a large collection of excellent varieties of herbaceous Cal- 
ceolarias ; and Mr. Osman received a second prize for a collection of 
cut Roses, there being a class provided for these. 

Extra prizes were awarded to Mr. Turner for his collection of Azaleas, 
Roses, and Calceolarias ; to Messrs. Veitch for Roses, also for Orchids, 
novelties, and Acers; to Mr. Bull for a miscellaneous group; to Mr. 
Denning for Orchids; to Mr. Noble for Clematises; to Mr. Wimsett 
for Palms, &c.; to Mr. Ware for spring flowers; to Mr. Wheeler for 
Heaths, stove, and greenhouse plants; and to Mr. Hooper for Pansies. 

In the permanent horticultural exhibition, in connection with the 
Tnternational Exhibition, we must first pay a tribute to the incompar- 
able excellence of Mr. William Panl’s display, and especially the truly 
magnificent specimens of Roses. We will not enter into names, though 
each deserves notice, and the whole is exquisitely arranged. Along 
with the Roses are Pelargoniums, Conifers, and a variety of plants, 
which by their foliage or flowers lend variety to the scene. Messrs. 
Standish and Co., of Ascot, have a well-arranged display of Rhodo- 
dendrons, Conifers, and other plants on the left of the entrance; and 
on the opposite side Messrs. Lane, of Berkhampstead, have a very 
lively bank of Azaleas, Rhododendrons, and other flowers, together 
with Conifers, &c. To neither of these collections, however, is justice 
done, owing to the centre of the entrance hall being otherwise occupied, 
but this we believe will be altered. 

In the upper corridors Mr. Wills, of the Royal Exotic Nursery, 
Sussex Place, Brompton, has a group arranged for decorative effect, of 
which we cannot speak too highly. The flowers are arranged in large 
gracefully-shaped wire baskets, that accord in outline with a cir- 
cular basket in the centre, which can be made to revolve for the pur- 
pose of exposing the plants equally to the light and for watering. 
Along with them are noble Palms, and the whole is backed with Coni- 
fers, &c., the front edged with Lycopods. Itis an admirable arrange- 
ment, which does Mr. Wills very great credit, forming, as it does, quite 
a feature in the corridor in which it is placed. Messrs. Paul & Son 
contribute a group of Roses, Hollies, and other shrubs. Messrs. 
Sutton have a stand 50 feet long, containing upwards of two hundred 
kinds of garden and agricultural seeds, including those of several trees, 
together with specimens of different Grasses, Potatoes, and some re- 
markably fine agricultural roots. Messrs. Carter & Co. have also a 
stand which will also contain a large assortment of seeds, but it is 
not yet fully completed. 


Fruir Commrrres.—G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. 
The Chairman announced that a highly meritorious dish of Uvedale’s 
St. Germain Pears, sent to the last meeting of Committee by Mr. 
Ross, gardener to Charles Eyre, Esq., of Welford Park, Newbury, had 
been by mistake credited to Mr. Rivers, of Sawbridgeworth. The Com- 
mittee, while regretting that this should have occurred, unanimously 
awarded them a special certificate. Mr. George Lee, of Clevedon, 
Bristol, sent a dish of finely-curled Parsley, which was unfortunately 
too yellow in colour. Mr. James Batters, gardener to J. W. Fleming, 
Esq., Chilworth Manor, sent two Queen Pines, and a tray containing 
excellent specimens of New Rivers’s Ashleaf and Ashleaf Potato, and 
Little Gem Pea. The collection received a special certificate. Mr. 
Pizzey, gardener to Sir Erskine Perry, Bart., Fulmer, Slongh, sent 
some fruit of a seedling Cucumber. Mr. Douglas, gardener to Francis 
Whitbourne, Esq., [lford, Essex, sent a very handsome brace of Cu- 
cumbers raised from Blue Gown. It is in the way of Telegraph, and 
received a first-class certificate. It was named ‘Tender and True,” 
the motto of ‘‘The Douglas.’ Mr. Green, gardener to Mrs. Honey- 
wood, Mark's Hall, Kelvedon, sent a seedling Pine. It is a cylindrical- 
shaped, yellow fruit, weighing about 3 lbs. The favour was excellent, 
and it was highly approved by the Committee; but as the fruit was 
evidently not in its best condition, the Committee recommended that 
Mr. Green should carefully preserve the variety, and exhibit it again. 

Mr. Richards, gardener to Baron Rothschild, Gunnersbury, sent 
three bunches of Black Hamburgh Grapes, grown in pots in eighteen 
weeks. This was a very meritorious exhibition, and received a special 
certificate. Mr. C. Baldwin, gardener to B. Drew, Esq., Streatham, 
sent three bunches of Black Hamburgh Grapes, which were good, but 
deficient in colour. Mr. Temple, The Gardens, Balbirnie, Fife, sent 
a bunch of Lady Downe’s Seedling Grape, cut in November last, and 
kept in a bottle of water. The Committee commended the flayour, 


; 
| 


May 4, 1871. J JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 319 


and ask for full information as to the manner in which they had been 
kept. 

Mr. Stevens, of Trentham, sent a dish of each Black Hagle and 
Bigarreau Cherries, remarkable for size and beauty, to which a special 
certificate was awarded. Mr. Elcome, The Garden, Rhug, near Cor- 
wen, sent four dishes of Apples, consisting of Sturmer Pippin (named 
erroneously Yorkshire Greening), Scarlet Nonpareil (marked No. 3). 
The flavour was entirely spoiled. Mr. Ford, gardener to W. &. Hubbard, 
Esq., Leonardslee, sent ten dishes of Apples and three of Pears, re- 
xaarkable for the care with which they had been preserved, and the 
beauty of colour attained in the ripening. They were awarded a 
special certificate. Mr. Douglas, of Loxford Hall, brought branches 
of Peaches and Nectarines laden with fruit, taken from trees in pots 
wintered out of doors from October till the second week in January for 
the last eight or nine years, to show that the trees do not suffer from 
the exposure. 


Frorat Commirter.—Dr. Denny in the chair. Mr. Green, gar- 
dener to W. Wilson Saunders, Esq., Hillfield, Reigate, sent a very in- 
teresting collection of plants, of which Elisena longipetala, a Peruvian 
bulb, with heads of white flowers, had a first-class certificate, a similar 
award being made to Dyckia brevifolia, » Pine-Apple-like plant with 
dark green foliage. Other interesting plants in this collection were 
Leucocoryne ixiodes with pretty pale lilac flowers, and Streptocarpus 
Saundersii with small Gloxinia-like white and blue flowers. A special 
certificate was given for the collection. Mr. Parker, Tooting, sent 
Tris nudicaulis, on account of its rarity. Myr. Williams, Holloway, 
exhibited a species of Sobralia witha large flower of a delicate purplish 
lilac. It received a first-class cert.ficate, as also Amaryllis marginata 
perfecta. A special certificate was given to Mr. Williams fora group of 
plants, likewise one for his fine example of Cochiostema Jacobianum 
with six beautiful panicles. Mr. Nelson, St. Michael’s Hill Nursery, 
exhibited Rhododendron Princess Louise of Lorne, noticed in another 
column, and Mr. Woodward, gardener to Mrs. Torr, had a special cer- 
tificate for a very fine specimen of Eria leucostachya with twelve 
racemes of flowers. Though few of the genus are of much value for 
ornamental purposes, the specimen shown was very effective and much 
admired. 

Messrs. Veitch had first-class certificates for Agave festiva and 
Croton Johannis, a narrow drooping-leaved kind with rich golden varie- 
gation. They likewise sent a species of Asparagus with elegant feathery | 
white flower heads, also a few other plants, of which the beautiful 
Filmy Fern, Leptopteris Wilkesiana, had a first-class certificate. A | 
like award was made to Messrs. Rollisson for Gloxinia Rey. H. H. | 
Dombrain, with drooping rich crimson violet-tinged flowers, very bril- | 
liant in colour. The same firm also sent several other varieties, 
some promising Azaleas, and Telopea speciosissima, the Waratah, for 
which a special certificate was awarded. 

Mr. Bull sent Primula japonica and its variety lilacina, each of | 
which had a first-class certificate. These very beautiful Primzoses, 
very like a Phlox, were introduced from Japan by Mr. Fortune, and | 
proved perfectly hardy out of doors at South Kensington last winter. 
Tt is noticed in the previous report, and it may here be added it was | 
much admired by all who saw it. 

~ Messrs. E. G. Henderson & Co. sent Epigynium acuminatum, with 
coral-like flowers, White Tom Thumb Ageratum, and several other 
plants; and Mr. Noble new Clematises—Mrs. Lister, white, tinged | 
with purple at the base of the segments, was very pretty. Messrs. 
Downie & Co. had a first-class certificate for Tropeolum Mrs. Bow- 
man, a very bright orange scarlet, seemingly of tolerably dwarf habit ; 
also for Iberis gibraltarica (?). Mr. R. Wood, gardener to W. Kelloch, 
Esq., Stamford Hill, received a first-class certificate for Gasteria 
nigricans, said to be the identical plant figured by Haworth. A second- 
class certificate was given to Mr. Turner for Auricula Alderman 
Wisbey, and a similar award was made Mr. Masters, gardener to the 
Earl of Macclesfield, for Perpetual Clove Miss Joliffe. Mr. Masters 
also exhibited a box of Bougainvillea speciosa variegata, having yellow 
variegated foliage, and forming wreaths covered with splendid coloured 
bracts. This was surrounded with Ruscus androgynus, which had an 
excellent effect. A first-class certificate was given. 

Mr. William Paul had a first-class certificate for Rose Princess 
Beatrice, and Messrs. Paul & Son one for Rose Harl of Eldon. A 
special certificate was awarded to Mr. Petch, gardener to Sam Mendel, 
Hsq., for magnificent cut flowers of Phalenopsis grandiflora and other 
Orchids. Messrs. Barr & Sugden sent a remarkably fine collection 
of Narcissus, and Mr. Richards, Harl’s Court Road, a number of 
plants of the ornamental little Begonia named after him. ; 


GuneRraL MEEtinc.—J. Bateman, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. After 
the usual preliminary business, including the election of eleven new 
Fellows, a list of donations was read, and the Chairman expressed his 
regret that there were not more of books, and invited a distinguished 
foreign horticulturist who was present (M. Cannaart) to use his influ- 
ence in Belgium. 

Mr. Wilson Saunders, having been requested by the Chairman to 
make some remarks on the plants he had exhibited, said he had lately 
employed collectors in Chili and Peru collecting bulbs, and those ex- 
hibited were some of the results. He then briefly commented on some 
of them, remarking that one was deliciously scented, and appears quite 
hardy. The Dyckia brevifolia was dwarf, elegant, and seemed likely 
to be useful as a decorative plant. 


The Rev. M. J. Berkeley said, he ought to have said on the last 
occasion that the plant sold in the Bath markets for Asparagus was 
Ornithogalum pyrenaicum, not nutans. He then passed a high en- 
comium on Messrs. Barr & Sugden’s collection of cut Narcissus, all of 
which, as far as possible, were correctly named, and many of them rare 
and curious. The Vine disease at Melbourne, and the disease which 
had manifested itself in the Coffee in Ceylon, were ascribed to pecu- 
liar climatic conditions, these in the latter case having apparently 
entirely arrested development, especially as regards the albumen of 
the seeds, which was not one-half nor one-quarter developed. The 
Ceylon Coffee generally had two grains in the capsule, the true 
Mocha usually only one, though much of that sold as Mocha was not so. 

The Chairman, after pointing out some of the most remarkable of 
the Orchids, took occasion to notice a case of these plants which had 
been sent home, and said they were not worth the expenses of car- 
riage. It was perfectly useless to import from well-known localities, 
unknown countries must be ransacked, and those rich in bulks were 
generally rich in Orchids. The star of the day was Mr. Fortune’s 
Primula japonica, which Mr. Fortune first saw at a temple where he 
slept, but after trying in vain to import living plants and seeds he at 
last succeeded in 1861 in introducing it. The speaker gave an inter- 
esting account of Mr. Fortune’s feelings on first meeting with the 
plant, and his troubles in securing its tatroduction, and concluded by 
stating that the plant had proved hardy near London. 


Tus was essentially, as far as florists’ flowers were concerned, a 
show of pot Roses. It was too late for Auriculas; and Azaleas, al- 
though presenting as numerous a variety as any collection of strictly 
florists’ flowers, can hardly be designated as such. The pot Roses 
were as usual good, but to my judgment not up to the usual lead, 
while the collection of new varieties did not present any very remark- 
able novelties. This must of necessity for some time not present its 
usual features of interest, unless, indeed, our English raisers come to 
the front, and a fine seedling yellow Rose exhibited by Messrs. George 
Paul & Son seemed to indicate that such would be the case. 

In the class for twelve new Roses of 1868, 1869, and 1870 Messrs. 
Paul & Son were first. The most noticeable of their plants were Earl 
of Eldon, the yellow already referred to, a seedling from Cloth of Gold, 
very bright and large, and promising well; Duke of Edinburgh—I 
think of all our high-coloured Roses none for pot culture at any rate 
can equal this; there is a brilliancy about it which none others possess 
to an equal degree; Reine d'Or, a very beautiful Noisette, which I 
was glad to see so good, as I have thought well and spoken hopefully 
of it; Edouard Morren, like many Roses this has improved since it 
was first brought out, and, while very large, does not seem so much to 


| show the tendency to exhibit a green eye, which spoiled its appearance ; 


Malle. Eugénie Verdier, very pretty and useful; and Marquise de 
Castellane, bearing out fully the high position accorded to it. Mr. 
Turner, of Slough, was second. Amongst the best of his flowers were 
Jules Chrétien, light pink; Adrienne Christophle, Edouard Morren, 
Dupuy Jamain, Marquise de Mortemart, Nardy Fréres, Duke of 
Edinburgh. There were others whose only novelty was their names— 
Marquise de Ligneries, Louisa Wood, Baron Chaurand, and Comtesse 
de Hainault. 

Auriculas, as I have said, were late, and the flowers generally wanted 
freshness. In the class for twelve, open, Mr. Charles Turner was first. 
His tlowers were Read’s Miss Giddings, a good useful grey edge, which 
I also saw well exhibited in Dublin; Leigh’s Colonel Taylor, fine ; 
Turner's Mrs. Fletcher ; Lightbody’s Robert Traill, grey-edged seed- 
ling, too much colour; Headly’s Arabella, white edge; Turner's 
Jessica ; Heap’s Smiling Beauty; Headly’s Richard Headly ; Light- 
body’s Richard Headly ; and Alderman Wisbey (Headly). There isa 
peculiar interest attached to some of these flowers. That veteran 
grower to whom we owe the best Auricula in growth, Headly’s George 
Lightbody, has given up growing, and his collection, including his 
seedlings, has passed into the hands of Mr. Charles Turner, of Slough ; 
among them are some fine grey edges. The best of those exhibited 
to-day was Richard Headly, but I hope Mr. Headly may be induced 
to allow this name to be altered. We are already confused with 
Hedge’s Britannia and Smith’s Britannia, Hoge’s Waterloo and 
Smith’s Waterloo, and when the varieties are really so fewitis a great 
pity that the confusion should be made worse. We have a remem- 
brance of our good old friend both in Lightbody’s flowers and his own 
George Lightbody, which will ever make him dear to Auricula growers, 
let us be content with that. Mr. James was second; his flowers were 
Smiling Beauty, John Bright, Richard Headly, James’s Model, Smith’s 
Mrs. Smith, Countess of Wilton, Conqueror of Europe, Oliver's Lovely 
Anne, Hepworth’s True Briton, Campbell’s Lord Palmerston, and 
Warris’s Union. In the class for six Mr. James was also first with 
Lancashire Hero, Richard Headly, George Lightbody, Lord Palmers- 
ton, and Smiling Beauty. The Rey. H. H. Dombrain was second 
with Robert Burns, Mary Anne, Chapman’s Maria, Headly’s George 
Lightbody, Lancashire Hero, and Fletcher's Ne Plus Ultra. There 
was also a nice collection of Alpines exhibited by Mr. Turner, includ- 
ing Queen Victoria, Fascination, Gladiator, Cygnet, Mercury, Fire 
King, and some unnamed seedlings; and by Mr. James, who had 
The Pet, Magnet, Phebus, Black Prince, and Jubilee. 

Mr. Hooper, of Bath, exhibited some fine Pansies, among which hig 
Sunshine took the pre-eminence, good as a bedder and in a stand. 
He had besides Charles Felton, Mrs. Felton, Queen of Beauties, Sun- 


320 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ May 4, 1871 


set, Mrs. Laing, Cloth of Gold, Novelty, The Bride, and Cream of 
Creams, and amongst fancies, Princess Teck, Rob Roy, Purity, very 
beautifully edged, Jewel, Prince Leon, and Exquisite.—D., Deal. 


GIANT POLYANTHUS. 


Unver the heading ‘ Calcot,” we twelve months ago gave an 
account of a visit we paid to this charming retreat, three miles 
beyond Reading on the Bath road. We were rather too.late 
then to see the famed gardens of giant Primroses, Polyanthus, 
and Cowslips in their best condition, though we were amply 
rewarded for our journey by other objects of interest, which 
were remarked upon at the time; but we lived in the hope of 
being enabled this year to gratify a curiosity which was only 
deepened by what we had already seen, and by the expectancy 
in which we indulged. Oar hope was not disappointed when 
last week we spent a day at the hospitable country box of Mr. 
Webb. The Frimroses, Polyanthus, and Cowslips, and other 
spring flowers, of which there are really acres, were one mass 
of bloom, and such Polyanthus and Cowslips! They are 
“giants.” They must be seen to be appreciated, for no de- 
seription will suffice to give any idea of the size, and richness, 
and variety of these flowers. For another week or two these 
will be in the full splendour of their bloom, and we would re- 
commend all who have the leisure and the opportunity to visit 
Caleot, where we will ensure them a welcome reception from 
the worthy propristor. 

Among other, and there are many, things to be noted here, 
we observed a large quantity of that rare bulb Narcissus (Ajax) 
cernuus flore-pleno, a beautiful double Narcissus, fiowers of 
which Mr. Webb exhibited at South Kensington a fortnight 
ago, much to the delectation of lovers of this beautiful genus. 
Crocuses are grown by the acre, and Snowdrops by the mile, 
for there are lines and lines of the latter all over the place. 
The trees of Maréchal Niel Rose have multiplied since our last 
visit, till this lovely Rose salutes you in all directions. One 
notable fact we may mention, Mr. Webb uses no stable manure, 
but every leaf off his ten acres of Filberts is utilised. They 
are all gathered in the autumn and thrown in a heap. They 
are used extensively for hotbeds for Melons, Cacumbers, and 
other cultural wants, and when rotted to vegetable mould they 
serve as the only dressing the land requires. 


STRAWBERRY FORCING. 


Tue showers of the 28th and 29th ult. would be of great im- 
portanée to the Strawberry quarters. We are sorry to say that 
our anticipations as to a shortness of bloom will be too well 
realised, though there will still be a fair crop, especially on the 
younger plants. The sunny days of the week gave a rich colour 
and flavour to Strawberries urder glass. We lately stated 
we had done very well this season with pots on boards, with- 
out anything beneath them. Some we are obliged to keep in 
flats or saucers to prevent the drip injaring crops beneath them, 
for even in a lean-to Peach house we have at present four rows 
of Strawberries, some of them too shaded for setting, but fair 
for swelling. Being rather short of room, however, we filled 
several lights of a pit with pots, after the fruit had set frealy, 
and we had thinned out at least two-thirds of it. These pots 
were set a couple of inches or go in a bed of decaved leaves, 
with just a little heat beneath them. Not seldom we have 
had fine fruit from adopting this plan, and allowing the roots 
to run into the bed from the bottom of the pot. The plants 
become more independent of the water-pot. Pots on boards, 
slates, or any hard substance, require more watering, but 
that watering gives nourishment though with more labour. 
We allude to the matter thus prominently because some be- 
ginners write to tell us, after what was stated lately about 
setting pots on a solid shelf, that they fear they will be wrong 
in plunging their pots in a decayed bed of dung and leaves. 
Well, the whole of our experience leads in this respect to two 
conclusions. First, that when Strawberry pots are set on turf, 
&¢,, or less or more set in a bed of decomposing material, it is 
best to manage so that the pot be not moved until the fruit is 
gathered; and, secondly, we prefer, as in the above case, that 
before Strawberry pots are put on or in a bed, the fruit should 
be first set and commencing to swell, whilst the pots stand on 
ahard bottom. By setting the pots on a bed at once, so en- 
ticing for the roots to enter, we have had good shows, and a 
remarkable growth of foliage, but the foliage seemed to steal 
what the flower-stems ought to haye had. By delaying plunging 


the pots in such a bed until the fruit were set and swelling, the 
enticement given to the roots to go beyond the pot told more 
on the fruit than on the mere foliage. We advise, therefore, 
that a setting or plunging medium for a pot should be resorted 
to after the fruit is set. Hvyen then it is doubtful if the hard 
shelf would not be quite as well, if varied weak manure water- 
ings could be duly given. The safest artificial manure to 
use is a pinch of dissolve¢ bones or superphosphate of lime 
over the surface of the poi—that is, as much as can be held be- 
tween the thumb and finger—every week. Those who are more 
experienced can use anything; we use house sewage frequently, 
but we like to judge of its strength each time. A great point 
in watering, and especially in early forcing, is never to water 
over the bud or centre cf the plant before or shortly after the 
flower truss appears. It is better in every way to sail the sur- 
face soil, leaving the central bud high and comparatively dry. 

And again, as we are on this subject here are several in- 
quiries. ‘‘ Why don’t you, and gardeners in similar places to 
yours, have a Strawberry house such as you described as 
existing at Enville years ago, and such as Mr. Ingram has at 
Belvoir?” Why? Just simply because we cannot help our- 
selves. There is no end to the disadvantages of having Straw- 
berries as temporary crops in other houses. For one thing the 
Strawberry is a plant that is very sensitive to a high tempera- 
ture. We need no enter further on the theory of insects, but 
if is quite evident that when a plant is placed in unnaturak 
positions insects will soon show themselves in the way of reta- 
liation. For example, we believe that many a vinery and many 
a Peach house would never be visited by that little pest the 
red spider but for Strawberry pots being placed in the highest, 
warmest, though the airiest positions, in places where the red 
spider will be the most encouraged to attack the leaves, sul- 
phur fumes from walls, &c¢., notwithstanding. Then in all 
such houses the more shade, the more deficiency in setting, in 
colour, and in flavour, whilst freely exposed in a high tempera— 
ture, the greater the likelihood of the red spider showing itself, 
and then it will not confine itself to the Strawberries. A Straw- 
berry house, then, say we, where it can be had.—R. F. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


Proposep New Marxet.—Mr. Henry Meyers, the President. 
of the Market Gardeners’, Nurserymen’s, and Farmers’ Associa- 
tion, together with several of the other members, attended by 
appointment at the Guildhall the other day for the purpose of 
meeting the Market Improvement Committee of the City of 
London, end fully explaining the requirements of the market 
gardeners with reference to the great need for improved market. 
accommodation for the disposal of fruits, flowers, and vegetables 
within the metropolis. Mr. Meyers stated that the growers had 
for many years been making applications to the agents of the 
Duke of Bedford to construct a root over the whole of Covent 
Garden Market, and make other really necessary improvements > 
but no steps had yet been taken to meet the urgent wants of the 
public and the trade. Under these circumstances the growers 
were glad to hear that the Corporation of London contemplated 
certain improvements and alterations in the City markets. 
Some of the members had expressed an opinion that the site 
in Smithfield near the New Meat Market would be most advan. 
tageous to both buyers and sellers; yet, after taking into full 
consideration the central position and great width of Farring- 
don Street, the Market Improvement Committee appeared to 
consider that by means of a judicious outlay in altering the pre~ 
sent inconvenient levels and approaches, giving ample means 


of ingress and egress, and constructing a light roof over the 


whole area of Farringdon Market, the latter would be a source 
of more profit to the Corporation, and within a few years 
would rise from its present unsatisfactory state to the position 
of a really first-class well-attended murket. The deputation 
was courteously received by the Market Improvement Com- 
mittee, who went into the discussion in a business-like manner, 
and it was ultimately agreed that a sub-committee from the 
Market Improvement Committee should meet a sub-committee 
from the Market Gardeners’ Association, to discuss and arrange 
the necessary details required either for the improvement of 
Farringdon Market or the erection of a new market opposite 
the New Meat Market. 

— Farewert Dinyer to Mr. Govan, or Lea Castix.—On 
the 24th ult. this tribute to merit was given by a considerable 
number of the principal gardeners of the district. Mr. John 
Gough for nearly eleven years was head gardener to J. P. Binon 


maha to 


PD SEO ata aso 


May 4, 1871. ] 


Westhead, Hsq., late M.P. for York, and he has retired from 
Lea Castle to take a similar situation near Hereford. It is 
only a few years ago that Mr. Gough was presented by the 
Foresters of Kidderminster and the surrounding district with 
2 valuable gold watch and chain as a testimony of their respect, 
and more recently his late employer: made him a free member 
_of the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Institution by paying a 
life subscription. His confréres, on hearing that he was about 
leaving them, quickly organised a dinner committes. Nearly 
fifty gardeners and others dined together at the Fox Inn. 
Councillor Hasell occupied the chair, end Mr. E. Bennett, head 
gardener to the Harl of Stamford and Warrington, Enville, the 
vice-chair. We have not space for the encomiums they passed 
upon him to whom the tribute was paid. 


Amone the plants which have received honour and 
religious veneration among the Hindoos, the Doos-arass (Cy- 
nodon Dactylon) holds a prominent place. Its usefulness, added 
to its beauty, induced them in their earliest ages to consider it 
the abode of a benevolent nymph, and it is employed in many 
of their religious ceremonies. It owes much of its honour to 
its great tenacity of life, being regarded as an emblem of im- 
mortality ; and the Véda celebrates it, under one of its names, 
in words which indicate its supposed mystic origin :—‘‘ May 
Durvi, which rose from the water of life, which has a hundred 
roots and a hundred stems, efface a hundred of my sins, and 
prolong my existence for a hundred years.” The extreme 
rapidity of growth in this Grass is here referred to, and it is 
stated that, by merely chopping it in pieces and sprinkling 
these on prepared ground, a verdant sward may be obtained in 
a few weeks. The Doob-grass is frequently introduced by name 
in the popular stories of the country, and the roots are esteemed 
medicinal.—(Nature.) 

“Tauret Jor.’’—Caurtion.—Scme time last year we 
cautioned the public against purchasing ‘‘ rare”? specimens of 
‘Ferns from an impostor known as ‘‘ Fern Jack,’ who, by his 
clever artifices, succeeded in deceiving several collectors sup- 
posed to be ‘‘well up’? in Ferns. We have now to caution 
them against purchasing at their doors of another vendor of 
plants—a boy, whom we will dub ‘‘ Laurel Joe,” as he deals 
chiefly in that popular evergreen. ‘This cunning individual 
professes to sell young ‘‘ Rose Laurel’’ trees, as he calls them, 
ata very cheap rate! Tho trees he offers are about a foot in 
height, in healthy condition apparently when gold, with their 
“roots” nicely covered up in moist mould, a little piece of the 
root protruding, however, to show that there is no deception ! 
"We have seen this week some of the Laurels sold by ‘‘ Joe” to 
a lady amateur gardener. She was about to set the “ shrubs ;” 
but, previously to doing so, loosened the mould from the roots, 
when she discovered that she had purchased merely some 
‘cuttings of a species of Laurel, without any root of its own 
whatever! Hach cutting had a slit atthe bottom, which served 
to hold tightly a piece of any root which might be inserted 
previous to putting on the clay covering. The imposition is 
decidedly ingenious ; but we advise the public, before purchas- 
ing ‘‘ Rose Laurels”’ at their doors, to uncover the ‘‘ roots !”— 
(Brighton Herald ) 


In the northern district of Alaska the various Grasses, 
which form an important portion of the vegetation, are woven 
into mats, dishes, articles of summer clothing, such as socks, 
mittens, and hats, by the Indians and Esquimaux. Mr. W.H. 
Dall states in his report upon the resources of that region, that 
in winter the Grasses are neatly tied in bunches, and shaped to 
correspond with the foot; they are then placed between the foot 
and the sealskin sole of the winter boots worn in that country. 
‘« There they serve as a non-conductor, keeping the foot warm 
and dry, and protecting it from contusion to an extent which 
the much-lauded moceasins of the Hudson Bay men never do. 
In fact, I believe the latter to be, without exception, the worst, 
most uncomfortable, and least durable covering for the foot 
worn by mortal man.”—(Nature.) 


NOTES MADE DURING A TOUR IN 
IRELAND.—No. 8. 
POWERSCOURT, CO. WICKLOW. 

VINES occupy a prominent position at Powerscourt. In the 
moble range of glass already alluded to, four houses or compart- 
ments, each about 50 feet in length and tolerably wide, are de- 
voted to them. At the time of my visit their condition was in 
every respect admirable — nothing very sensational, but all 
good and promising. I had to note nothing very particular in 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


321 


the construction of the houses, or the general management of 
the Vines. All the latter were planted inside, and pruned and 
trained on the close single-rod system. Mr. Dunn, however, 
has had to do battle with one of the direst enemies of the Vine 
—the Vine Aphis, Phylloxera vastatriz. This dreadful enemy 
is but little known in this country. It has but lately, indeed, 
been brought under the notice of our scientific men. Long 
may we be spared from any closer acquaintance, for of all the 
terrible pests a gardener has to contend with, and they aro 
manifold, ‘this bears the bell.” The Vine aphis is a small 
sort of Coccus, producing gall-like excrescences upon the young 
shoots and leaves, as well as upon the roots of the Vine, and 
so completely paralyses its further progress. It spreads also 
with wonderfal rapidity, so that where once introduced (and it 
is a foreign introduction), the whole house is almost doomed to 
destruction. In some gardens every Vine has been destroyed, 
and no possible cure has yet been discovered, excepting by the 
simple process of ‘‘ stamping out ’’—i.c., by the complete re- 
newal of the Vines, soil, and all concerned. 

It was, indeed, pleasing to learn that Mr. Dann had at last 
got rid of it. That which seemed at one timo, and to most 
people, almost a hopeless task, has been overcorne by incessant 
perseverance in this way. All the Vines have been taken up, 
their roots thoroughly washed free from every particle of soil, 
the entire borders renewed, and then replanted. It is believed 
that thus it has been entirely overcome, and let us hope it is 
so. Looking at the Vines, which even after this severe ordeal 
are very luxuriant, not the slightest symptom is apparent. To 
Mr. Dunn we must, therefore, aseribe the credit of first being 
able to point out the way to us of conquering the Phylloxera 
vastatrix. 

Taking a peep at vinery No. 1, planted about two years ago 
with Black Hamburghs, Royal Muscadine, Royal Ascot, &¢., 
these were doing well, and promised a good crop this season. 
Vinery No. 2 is filled with a variety of Grapes for summer and 
autumn use, such as Madresfield Court, a truly first-class new 
Grape, Buckland Sweetwater, Duchess of Buccleuch, Chasselas 
Musqné, Mill Hill! Hamburgh, Frankenthal, Trentham Black, 
&e. These were aiso but recently planted, but promised well 
for another year. 

Passing on we enter another vinery, which is devoted to late 
Grapes, chiefly Muscats. These were bearing a good crop of 
fair-sized bunches of large and very evenly-sized berries of 
that deep amber hue, the Mint mark of ripe Muscats. Some 
Frankenthals and Alicantes were likewise good. The Muscat 
Hambureh, however, was a failure, and it has so far disgusted 
Mr. Dunn that it is to be replaced with Madresfield Court. In 
yet another vinery was a splendid assortment of late sorts, all 
bearing a good heavy crop. The fruit in this house was in- 
tended for use in February, Mareh, &e. The sorts mostly 
relied on and esteemed are Lady Downe’s and Trebbiano. The 
Barbarossa (Gros Guillaume) and West’s St. Peter’s find no 
favour here, and are to be discarded. It is singular how tastes 
differ, the latter variety being in my opinion one of the most 
pleasant-flavoured of Grapes. 

Mr. Dunn manages to keep his Grapes until very late in 
spring—Trebbiano until the beginning of April, and Lady 
Downe’s last year until the middle of May. Tho French 
system of cutting the Grapes and keeping them in the fruit- 
room, by inserting the end of the stalk in a bottle of water, 
hag been tried here pretty extensively, and found to answer 
fairly. Some Grapes cut in November have kept good until 
March; not quite so well as those left on the Vines, nor is the 
flavour found so good. It is, however, a practice recommended 
when the vinery is required to be used for another purpose, 
which would endanger the keeping of the fruit on the Vine. 

Glancing now at the flower, garden in the immediate front of 
the houses just noticed, and enclosed on the other sides by 
high walls covered with Arbor-Vite, Laurels, and Ivy, we haye 
certainly one of the stiffest and ugliest sights of Powerscourt, 
about an acre and a half of gaudy colours—searlet and yellow, 
yellow and scarlet. It is a garden of the old geometric Dutch 
style, numerous small beds on gravel with Box edgings, requir- 
ing an immensity of plants to fill them, and endless care. So 
far as it could be made beautiful it was done so by Mr. Dunn. 
It was gratifying to me to learn that it is intended to sweep it 
away at an early date as soon as the terraces, now in course of 
formation, shall have been completed. These terraces lie on 
the south front of the mansion, by which they will be eom- 
pletely overlooked. Judging by what has already been done, 
although it is dangerous to speak of half-finished work, they 
will be very grand. Naturally the ground and situation favour 


322 JGURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ Mey 4, 1871. 


their construction. Ii carried ont in the spirit they are at 
present conceived, there will be few places to compare with 
them. 

It is somewhat difficult to give an exact idea of the true 
character of the place. I took my position on the top terrace 
in front of the mansion, which is over 600 feet in length, and 
about 60 feet wide, supported in front by a rustic ashlar granite 
wall of ornamental construction, with niches here and there 
for statues, and surmounted with numerous marble vases and 
urns, alternating with a great number of large light-grey 
granite balls on handsome pedestals of thesame stone. These, 
I was told, were all cut and dressed on the spot by native 
Paddies, and they do them credit. From this terrace, then, 
the ground slopes rapidly for a distance of about 900 feet toa 
small lake about 100 feet below, and it is on this ground, there- 
fore, where, as at present proposed, will be formed five great 
terraces, with a walk in the centre, 44 feet wide, leading from 
the mansion to the lake, over the successive terraces, by noble 
flights of dressed and moulded granite stairs, ornamented with 
vases, statues, &c., 
numbers of which 
are already waiting 
to be unpacked. The 
upper terrace is the 
only one finished; 
if is chiefly gravel, 
and the principal 
flower garden will 
be on the third 
or middle terrace, 
having an area of 
about 4 acres, and 
nearly 50 feet below 
the level of the 
drawing-room win- 
dows, from which a 
complete view of the 
whole can be ob- 
tained. The extent 
of the terraces will 
be about 12 acres; 
the top one, as 
stated, supportéd by 
@ granite wall, the 
others by grassy 
slopes curving out- 
wards at the ends, 
and gradually dying 
away into the sur- 
rounding pleasure 
grounds. When 
completed it will 
unquestionably be 
very grand—one of 


collection of Ivies. Leaving the terrace, we turn down a wind- 
ing walk through a beautifully undulating glade, which is very 
| judiciously planted with the choicest hardy trees and shrubs, 
especially Conifers, in which Powerscourtis particalarly rich, 
nearly every variety having at one time or other been planted, 
and in great part they have succeeded well. Amongst the 
more striking we note Cedrus atlantica, growing very vigor- 
ously, Pinus insignis, so delightfully green, P. excelsa and 
Cembra, Abies Douglasii, Wellingtonias, Araucarias, Picea Pin- 
sapo, cephalonice, Nordmanniana; Thujopsis borealis, 12 feet 
high ; Cupressus of sorts; many fine plants of Magnolia grandi- 
flora, conspicua, glauca, macrophylla; Skimmia japonica, Skim- 
mia oblata, Raphiolepis ovata, Ilex Fortunei, Quercus glabra, 
and many more too numerous to mention, but all extremely 
interesting. Here we come to a great clump of Berberis Dar- 
winii, covering the slope of a prominent knoll, ard it must 
look charming when in flower. Then at the bottom is a mag- 
nificent clamp of Pampas Grass just cominginto bloom. How 
very effective is this plant when grouped in such situations > 
yet it has one seri- 
ous drawback by 
coming into fiower 
so late. In this re- 
spect the Arundo 
conspicua is a 
decided advantage, 
as it flowers much 
earlier, although it 
is not quite so hand- 
some. At Powers- 
court the Arundo is 
the more este: m 4d, 
and it seems to 
thrive well. 
Strolling on down 
the glade we pass 
some recently-plant- 
ed groups of Rbo- 
dodendrons, where 
they will no doubt 
do well, and winding 
along the bottom of 
the pleasure grounds 
we come suddenly 
upon a lovely delk 
scme 30 feet below 
us, and stretching 
away are woods and 
grassy slopes down 
to the Dargle. The 
upper part of this, 
until three years 
ago, WaS a swampy 
thicket and peat bog, 


the grandest  ter- 


but was then cleared, 


yaced gardens in 
Treland; but, with 
all deference to Mr. 
Dann, or whoever 
the designer may be, 
I am of opinion that 
fewer terraces of a 
greater width, say 
three, would have a far more commanding effect. The lake, 
too, sadly wants extending and improving to make it in che- 
racter with its surroundings. 

The view in front is one of the grandest that can be seen, 
wood, water, hill, and dale lending their aid to fill in as pretty 
a natural picture as one could wish to look upon. From the 
terraces the view sweeps down over the lake, the rich green 
meadows, and bosky dells, to the vale of the Dargle, then open- 
ing wide and stretching up the hill sides beyond, over more 
charming woods and meadows, rising higher still into scanty 
pastures, and furze, and heather, until the view culminates in 
the bare rocky and precipitous peak of the large Sugar-loaf 
Mountain, standing ont grandly and prominently in the clear 
blue sky, and supported on cither hand by lower peaks, but 
quite as rugged and picturesque—such a sight as can only be 
seen in Ireland. 

Near to the east end of the upper terrace is the old church- 
yard of Powerscourt, the resting place of the Powerscourt 
family. The old church, in runing, is finely covered with a | 


The Dargle, and the 


drained, and formed 
into a very excellent 
American garden, 
for which it is par- 
ticularly well suited. 
This is a charming 
spot, for which Mr. 
Dunn deserves espe- 
cial thanks. A gracefully curving walk runs round it, and 
crossing a small brook by a rustic oak bridge ascends again to 
the level of the lake at the foot of the terraces. All sorts of 
Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Heaths, and Aucubas are there 
planted, with every attainable variety of Holly, interspersed 
with neat-growing Conifers in great variety, and many other 
plants of ornamental character. 

At the upper part of this American garden is an interesting 
and curious rockery and fernery, the rockwork being entirely 
of tufa, rising up in a rugged, natural manner in pillars, 
arches, and buttresses to abont 20 feet high, and pierced again 
by caves and narrow winding passages. Supplied from the 
lake above there is at one end a small waterfall, which, splash- 
ing over the rocks in its descent, gives a cool and refreshing 
appearance. As a rockery it is pretty, but to being a fernery 
it cannot lay much claim. It is bare, although there were 
many pretty rare species upon it. 

Ascending again from the rockery by a long, winding, rustic 
stone stair to the pleasure grounds, on our right hand is the 


Glenislorane Stream. 


| 
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a a eT 


May 4, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUR& AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 323 


lake, and beyond, the new terraces rising up to the mansion, 
which is seen from here to great advantage. Ona the left 
are groups of the Piceas, planted on the crest of the slope; 
these, when grown up, will form a pretty feature in the land- 
scape. <A piece of ground finely sheltered was here being pre- 
pared for a collection of hardy fine-foliaged plants, such as 
several of the Palms, Bamboos, Aralias, especially Sieboldii, 
which is @ fine hardy plant here, Phormium tenax, &. A 
little farther on is a fine example of Cupressus macrocarpa, 
upwards of 40 feet high. This is decidedly one of the most 
ornamental of Conifers, and particularly well suited for the 
climate of Ireland. Still following the winding walk along the 
lower part of the grounds, I noticed a very reverend group of 
Scotch Firs, and dotted over the lawn many fine, healthy, 
young Conifers, which are far too numerous to mention. 

A little farther on we reach the level of the upper part of the 
pleasure grounds from which we started. From here to the 
south-west there is a delightful view of the upper part of the 
Dargle Vale, Glencree, and the Wicklow mountains. A little 
eastward we reach a rustic summer house, from which there is 
a lovely view of sea and land over the vale of the Dargle to the 
church spires of Bray, and far out to sea in a straight line to- 
wards Holyhead. On the left from this point is a long noble 
terrace, the western end of the new upper terrace in front of 
the mansion. This is bounded on one side by a fine row of 
Wellingtonias, about 16 feet high, in the rudest of health, and 
the situation is very high and exposed. Five years ago these 
trees seemed doomed to die. They all exhibited signs of sick- 
ness, and several died outright. On examination it was found 
that their roots were literally white with fungus, proceeding 
from ths remains of te roots of some old Elm trees wh‘ch had 
stood there previously and had been left in the ground. To 
save the remaining trees, Mr. Dann resorted to the bold ex- 
periment of taking up each tree, pruning off every infested 
Piece of root, shaking away every particle of soil, and even 
washing the roots to make doubly sure, trenching over the 
ground, and carefully picking out every piece of root or stick, 
and replanting the trees in a few loads of fresh soil to start 
them. Year after year since then they have improved, and are 
now as healthy as need be. Is not this a lesson to those who 
believe not in the evil effects of fangus at the roots of trees, 
and its being caused by decaying pieces of roots, sticks, &e. ? 
Mr. Dunn’s success in clearing the fungus from the Welling- 
tonias led him to adopt the same method in order to battle 
with the Vine aphis, and with happy results, 

Near this, on the way to the kitchen garden, are many more 
Conifers of the rarer sorts—Picea grandis, Picea nobilis mag- 
nifica, both very fine; Cupressus cashmeriana, very elegant; 
Thoja elegantissima, truly elegant; two very handsome plants 
of Thujopsis dolabrata and T. lzteyirens; Retinospora filifera ; 
a fine row of the pretty Thuja aurea; anda fine line of very 
symmetrical trees of Cryptomeria japonica abont 25 feet in 
height. Here also were fine plants of Aralia Sieboldii, quite a 
hardy evergreen, Chamerops excelsa, Bumbuse gracilis, Aucuba 
japonica loaded with berries, numbers of Camellias doing well, 
Indian Azaleas, Osmauthus ilicifolins, Quercus glabra, a fine 
evergreen, various kinds of Arbutus, &c. In the centre of this 
lawn there is a pond full of Water Lilies, with a fountain 
throwing water to a height of 50 feet. This is surrounded by 
@ group of dolphins, spouting from their nostrils water which 
falls in spray over the surface of the pond, producing a very 
pretty effect. 

Entering now the kitchen garden, a square of about two and 
a half acres, surrounded by high walls, one is compelled to say, 
that well cropped though it is, it is far too small for Powers- 
court ; so I was pleased to hear that a new and more extensive 
kitchen garden is being prepared, and Mr. Dunn will then be 
able to do vegetables that justice which they deserve. From 
the fountain just noticed runs a straight path through the 
centre of the kitchen garden and flower garden up to the centre 
front of the conservatory. This walk was planted with flowers 
ribbon-fashion, and they were very effectively and well arranged, 
and hidden from the kitchen garden by a high wire trellis. 
Various arches of Roses also are thrown over the walk, pre- 
senting a beautiful vista. The new kitchen garden, which is 
in course of formation, is very conveniently situated, and, 
judging by the fine crops of Peas, Onions, Asparagus, Sea-kale, 
&c., which I saw growing there, it will be found very suitable. 
Adjoining this is also a field of about four acres, which it is in- 
tended to plant with all the best sorts of fruits suitable for 
Ireland, which it shall be my duty to inspect at some future day. 

Powerscourt is one of tho:e magnificent establishments that 


‘require to be seen to be thoroughly understood. ‘Turn we 
this way or that, there is something fresh and interesting, and 
the whole is so well cared for in a gardening point of view by 
Mr. Dann, that there is no room to criticise, and continual 
praise is insipid. After partaking of Miss Dunn’s kind hospi- 
tality I had to bid my friends adieu. Crossing the Dargle by 
an ancient and inconveniently narrow bridge, driving down 
the south side of the valley and through the famed gorge of 
the Dargle, the Paradise of the Dublin holiday folks, admiring 
much the rich scenery of rock, wood, water, hill, and dale, 1 
was again at Bray.—B. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Prick out seedling Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli, Cabbages, and 
Cauliflowers as soon as sufficiently large to enable you to do so. 
Watch Beet, Carrots, Parsnips, and similar crops, and see that 
they do not fall a prey to snails and slugs as soon as they 
appear above ground, for the crops often fail from this cause, 
and the seedsman is blamed for not supplying good seeds. 
Where the attack has commenced, sow a quantity of soot and 
lime mixed together over the crops attacked; the best time 
for doing this is either at dusk in the evening, or early in the 
morning, Cauliflowers, Cabbages, and Lettuces which have 
been forwarded in heat must now be transplanted finally, and 
attended to with water should the weather prove dry. Thin- 
out Parsley, Spinach, Turnips, and all other advancing crops, 
and where Potatoes are above ground in the open quarters, as 
is now the case with all forward sorts, have the ground between 
the rows forked-up at least 1 foot deep, which will prove of 
great advantage tothe crop. Water advancing crops of Cauli- 
flowers with liquid manure, either using the drainings from the 
dung heap, or guano dissolved in water at the rate of 2 ozs. to 
the gallon; draw a little fresh soil to the stems of the plants 
after the operation. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Continue disbudding and thinning the young wood of Apricot, 
Peach, and even Pium trees, and retain no more wood than ~ 
can be laid-in without crowding. One well-ripened branch 
which has been exposed to sun and air is worth six that have 
been huddled together, and, consequently, are. ill-matured. 
Thin the fruit of Peaches and Nectarines where too thick, 
leaving double the number required for a crop till they are 
stoned, when they must have their final thinning. 3 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

The bright, beautifal, and varied hues of lovely green now 
worn by trees and shrubs, and the fresh verdure of the lawns, 
render this a delightful, most enjoyable month. To the gar- 
dener it is full of promise, but he feels some misgivings as to 
the visitations of destructive insects, vaguely denominated 
blights, gud remembers that the aphides sometimes produce 
“sixteen generations in one season ;” therefore, watch care- 
fully for their appearance. Keep all worked Roses free from ~ 
suckers, which are now produced in great abundance. Let 
order and neatness prevail. Finish clipping Box. Pay at- 
tention to plants now hardening for bedding-out, let it be ac- 
complished gradually. It is not safe to commence bedding-out 
tender plants before the middle of the month in the average of 
localities. Let, however, all preparations be made for the busy 
time. Determine your plans as to heights and colours; pay 
attention to the arrangement of the latter. A flower garden 
may be richly furnished with plants, but be very ineffective if 
the colours are badly arranged. For producing brilliant effect 
in masses reject parti-coloured flowers ; such are never effective. 
Use pure and decided colours, such as brilliant scarlet, pure 
white, deep purple, and bright yellow; those which are in close 
affinity spoil each other. Too little attention is paid to this in 
articles of dress and furniture, otherwise we should not see 
s0 much bad taste in these matters. Take care not to mix 
plants whose bloom is of doubtful duration with those of a 
more permanent character, remembering always that the beauty 
of a formal flower garden depends upon its being in all its 
details a perfect work of art. There must be high keeping, 
symmetry, and a judicious arrangement of colours, otherwise it 
will not form a satisfactory whole. Young gardeners should 
attend to thie. Many persons plant their stock so thinly that 
their beds are not covered till late in the season, I advise 
thick planting for speedy effect. Where walks require to be 
re-gravelled, it should be done previous to dry weather setting 
| in, and roll frequently. Where annuals are required for late 
flowering they may yet besown. Transplant tender annuals 


324 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 4, 1871. 


from their seed pots and beds; also transplant Dahlias, re- 
membering to use caution as to frost. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Many of the most forward Azaleas which were stopped some 
time ago will now be breaking again, and, if necessary, this is 
the proper time to give a second shift. Stop those which 
require it, and still persevere in maintaining a moist growing 
temperature, and shade for a short time in the middle of the 
day when necessary. All Azaleas, as fast as they are out of 
bloom, should be tiken into heat to make their growth, syring- 
ing them copiously, and supplying them liberally with manure 
water. Encourage Camellias and Orange trees to make a 
sturdy free growth by frequent syringings, supplying liquid 
manure, heat, and an abundance of air on suitable occasions. 
Continue to thin-out Heaths and New Holland plants as much 
as possible, especially all late-flowering plants, or such as 
have already flowered, and young stock required for another 
season, by placing them in the cold pits or frames; while there 
encourage their growth by timely shifts, and to those which are 
not to be repotted but are now making their growth and have 
their pots pretty full of roots, apply liquid manure with modera- 
tion. Pineh-back in due time luxuriant-growing shoots to pro- 
duce a regular and sturdy growth. 


STOVE. 

Follow former directions as to airing, watering, &c., and use 
every endeavour to keep a moist growing atmosphere at all 
times. Plants of tender foliage, such as Clerodendrons, Aphe- 
Jandras, &2., will require shading for an hour or two on bright 
days, but do not give them any more then is absolutely neces- 
sary, but rather endeavour to bring the plants up hardy by 
affording them plenty of air, of course always avoiding cold 
draughts. Attend in due time to those plants which require 
potting, and ply the finger and thumb vigorously in the case of 
plants of a rambling or looge habit, so as to render them com- 
pact and bushy. 

FORCING PIT AND FRAMES. 

See that the growth of Balsams, Cockscombs, Globe Ama- 
ranths, &c.,is duly encouraged, and another succession may be 
sown. 

PITS AND FRAMES, 

Attend to Zinnias, Rhodanthe Mangiesii, Martynia, and other 
tender annuals which are pricked out in slight hotbeds or pans. 
See that air is admitted during calm, warm days. Expose 
them by degrees to the influence of light and air by drawing 
off the lights. Dahlias, Salvias, and all plants intended for 
Aower-garden decoration should have the same treatment ; by 
thus inuring them to the weather they will be better able to 
withstand it when planted out in a more exposed situation. 
Be sure that the flower garden climbers in pots are not getting 
into confusion through want of staking and tying. Have a 
keen eye after thrips; as this active little insect commits its 
depredations during sunshine, give the plants at mid-day a 
good syringing with water in a clear state mixed with soot, soft 
Soap, anda little quicklime. Shut the pit close after syrivging, 
and throw a thin covering upon the lights for an hour or two ; 
‘by continuing this for a few days the enemy will soon be driven 
away. A pisce of rich ground should be prepared forthwith 
for a plantation of Neapolitan and other Violets for winter 
forcing, and as soon as it is ready it will be necessary to take 
either the young rooted runners or to part the old roots to plant 
it with. The ground must be made very rich and light by 
manuring either with leaf mould or some perfectly decayed 
hotbed dung, and each plant must have a foot square to grow 
upon. After they are planted give a good soaking of water, 
and shade until the plants begin to grow, after which the only 
attention necessary is to keep them clear of weeds, and to re- 
move the runners every second or third week, and also, if the 
season is dry, to give them good soaking of manure water. 
A sunny situation must be chosen to plant them in, as what 
we desire for forcing or winter blooming is early and well- 
matured growth.—W. Kranr. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


; KITCHEN GARDEN. 

In most gardens it is a mere waste of physical power to keep 
amen out of doors in very wet weather. With proper manage- 
ment the wet day is always the busiest day, as there is so 
much to he done in-doors, left often rather long for a wet day to 
come. We have mowed with the rain running down our back 
and gurgling out at the tops of our boots, but what was the 
good of it? After such a day, and such a drenching, with little 


| chance of drying clothes, not to speak of future evils of rheu- 


matism, &c., what good could men do in the following day and 
days? All such work in most gardens is downright waste. The 
mere physical human machine, to do its best merely as & 
machine, must be cared for like other machinery. We have 
no idea of garden men being looked upon as mere bags of sugar 
or salt that a little rain would soon melt, but we can confidently 
say after longs experience, that in gardens of any great extent, 
if the men are often soaked at their work, it will say as little 
for the forethought of the gardener ss for the advantage of 
the gentleman who employs them. There must be strange 
management if there is not plenty of dry work in a wet day, 
and then when the dry day comes the dry work will be done all 
the better, if the workman is regarded merely as a machine, 
and still more when he feels he is treated not merely as 
sentient, but a morelagent. Even in this respect alittle kind 
seen-sympathy will do much more than mere pay and the 
finest high-flown lucubrations on social economy and political 
philosophy. We have not seldom witnessed horses carefully 
kept at home in very rainy stormy weather; machinery, steam 
and otherwise, carefully cleaned and kept free from dust and 
moisture, and men turned out to do the best they could; but 
if without some light rain-proof material in the way of clothing, 
such a system was worse than a mistake if other work could be 
found. 

Partly owing to the clearing away of hedgerows, reducing 
plantations, and free draining without any attemps to save the 
drainage water, water will become of such importance that every 
young man, on taking a gardener’s place, should make specific 
inquiries as to the water supply for the garden. Those who 
have never experienced it can form but little idea of the con- 
stant anxiety when, during the summer months, the chief con- 
cern is with how little water you can manage to keep plants 
alive. Before the late reins our chief reservoir had been empty 
for a week. There is no little labour involved in carting and 
then carrying all that is wanted even for houses, especially 
when you must go miles to procure it. We are taking means to 
greatly increase our supply by gaving what falls from the sky 
and storing it for use. 

The above advice is founded on the simple fact, that so long 
as the dry weather lasts and there is a great scarcity of water, 
the gardener may meet with sympathy, but the previous dry- 
ness and the inevitable results are too apt to be forgotten when 
the rains come. True, shortness of water teaches us many 
lessons, 2mong others the impropriety of constant or even ad- 
ditional watering; but no scheming will enuble us to dispense 
with watering altogether, and especially in the case of pot 
plants. Another lesson may also be learned, and that is, not 
for a first saving to have spouting and conduit pipes too small. 


We have had 2-inch pipes in use when we wished afterwards © 


they had been 3 or 4inches in diameter. The small pipes and 
small spouting would do very well in gentle, even continuous 
rains, but the heavy downpours fill the tanks and reser- 
voirs, the small pipes cannot take the water away, and there 
is, therefore, overflowing and waste. We think that for con- 
veying the water underground iron pipes are best, well fastened 
at the joints. The next best are hard-burned, glezed, earthen- 


- ware pipes, well cemented at the joints. We have seen many used 


merely mortared at the joints, but that is a bad plan when you 
wish to collect all the water possible. Soft-burned, unglazed, 
earthenware acts too much like an open drain for getting rid 
of instead of conveying the water. These are matters which 
lose all their importance when plenty of water can be obtained 
with but little labour. : 
Cauliflowers.—Of two rows under hand-lights, averaging five 
plants a-light, a trench was dug out between and on either side, 
and the strong plants well earthed up, the outside plants being 
squeezed outwards a little to give them more room, and the 
glasses, where necessary, elevated a little more than the bank or 
ridge, to allow the plants more room to get out. By elevating 
the row in a ridge, as stated above, we often allow the glasses 
to remain on the most forward so long as they can get breathing 
room inside, as thus they are more forward. Not only do we 
put the top glass down firm in the early part of the afternoon, 
but we place a piece of old mat over the glass from evening to 
morning. By this means we generally have fine Cauliflowers 
early. Jor succession, whilst we pay this attention to one row 
we leave the other exposed, so that it just begins to come in as 
the first is about over. Besides these, we have two lots of 
spring-raised plants, and one more ready to go ont, the first 
two strong and healthy. We have tried many means of getting 
Cauliflower early, such as potting, repotting, keeping nu cool 


—— 


May 4, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


32. 


eS 


houses, &c.; but after all we have never succeeded better than 
by the old hand@-light system, putting nine small young plants 
under a hand-light in October, keeping them hardy all the 
winter, protecting them from severe frost—those referred to 
had no light for a fortnight or three weeks after they were 
gently frozen—thinaing to four or five in spring, and then 
encouraging free growth by rich and kind iveatment. Even 
when Broccoli is plentiful, Cauliflower white and compact has 
a richness of its own in May. Sometimes, when they head 
faster than we want them, we use some of the fine heads from 
these winter-standing plantations for preserving, pickling, &c., 
but in general we depend on the first spring Cauliflowers sown 
in a mild heat, end forwarded a little under protection for that 
purpose. Two things, we often think, conduce much to the good- 
ness of the winter-preserved Cauliflowers under nand-lights— 
first, using young small plants and rather late planting, so 
that the roots are working before the cold of winter comes; 
and secondly, the giving them at first otherwise rather starving 
treatment, such as well-pulverised soil, but with little dung, 
especially near the surface. To aid in this, as well as keeping 
slugs at bay, we often use a surfacing of rough clean drift sand 
—s, material the slimy tribe are ail much more averse to traverse 
than-even rough coal ashes. Broccoli and early Cabbages will 
be so scarce with us that we must do a little extra to get the 
Caulifiowers in. We have had many cuttings from the shoots 
of Brussels Sprouts, Scotch Kale, and Cottagers’ Kale; but 
perheps the most useful of all have been the young shoots of 
the Bada or Asparagus Kale, well named Asparagus Kale, as 
they have a richness all their own. Spinach is also more ap- 
preciated than it generally is with us, as it is easy to gather a 
large basketful of it now. 

In the somewhat general scarcity of spring vegetables allow 
us heartily to recommend the Sea-kale in its natural condi- 
tion at this early season. We even consider it superior io 
the finest blanched heads. Where much is grown there will 
be a good deal cf what was not forced now pushing and 
showing its close flower heads like the shoots of Purple 
Sprouting Broccoli. Cut these with the flower in embyro 
when 5 inches long, wash, and put in bojling water, with a 
pinch of carbonate of soda in the water, aud the vegetable, 
with the usual boiling, will turn out a beautiful green, and 
be as soft and sweet as marrow. It is in our opinion richer 
and sweeter than even the young shoots of the Asparagus 
Kale; in fact, sweeter and more mellow and soft than the 
blanched Sea-kule, except that which is forced early in winter, 
as generally that forced, or rather blanched, out of doors in 
April is more hard and stringy. Some time ago we alluded to 
the large flower heads of the Sea-kale being used, aud how 
partial many people were to them. They are far inferior, how- 
ever, to these little short shoots with the flower heads showing 
at the point of them. We have seen barrowloads—nay, in our 
time cartloads. of such flowering heads taken to the rubbish 
heap to rot. It would not injure the plants a bit, rather the 
reverse, to nip out these shoots showing for bloom now; and 
we trust some of our lady readers will give them a fair trial 
and report the result, and if, as we feel confident, the report 
be favourable, the Sea-kale may be looked upon as a hardy 
vegetable, useful, not merely to force and blanch, but to use 
when young in its naturalstate. To our taste it is superior 
even to & crisp young Cabbage, and far sweeter and crisper 
than Purple Sprouting Broccoli. Even the stalks were as soft 
and sweet as the leaflets. We would, however, advise that the 
pinch of soda should not be forgotten—hbalf a teaspoonful to 
@ little dish. We are here going out of our right track, but we 
like to see vegetables soft and green, and not yellow with hard 
ribs in them. 

Fortunately, before the rains of the 28th and 29th ult., we 
had sown our second lot of winter Greens, tha first being up, 
our main crop of Scarlet Runners, and sucesssions of Kidney 
Beans; also Peas, Turnips, Radishes, Lettuces, Caulifiowers, 
as where there is little room it is always advisable to sow 
often, and have very frequent successions. Besides red-lead- 
ing, all the smaller seeds had a dressing over them of charred 
refuse. The more recently that has been made, so as to keep 
the smell of smoke and burning about it, the more will every 
sort of intruder keep at a distance from it. ‘Than this there is 
no better lightener of stiffish soil, and in old gardens becoming 
effete by constant manuring ag well as never-ceasing cropping, 
it acts along with a dressing of lime as one of the best reno- 
vators. : 

The most forward of the Cabbages raised ina slight hotbed in 
spring, pricked out under glass, and then planted with little 


balls, will not be so very far behind the few thet remained to 
us of our autumn planting, but they, with all the extra care, 
will be much later than usual. The results of the last winter 
would show the importance of having a bed of young plants 
in reserve, for though we have had fine early Cabbages for 
many years from sowing in July and August, such a winter 
as the last would show that fine early plants are not to be 
depended on. Even now we think our plants would have stood 
the frost if they had not been enervated by the perfect clouds 
of flies that settled on them, and pretty well poisoned them in 
the autumn, notwithstanding all the means teken to clear them. 
It is well to know, however, how soon plants can be forwarded 
from spring sowings when 2 little extra heat can be given. 
One year, aud in about one night, grass mice and rats togetlrer 
cut down every Cauliflower plent we had in the beginning of 
March, end, unfortunately, Cauliflower plants were very scarce 
that spring. We sowed directly in a slight hotbed, pricked off 
2 inches apart as soon as the plants could be handled, still in 
the mild hotbed, then some 5 inches apart in light, lumpy, rich 
compost, lifted with good balls, and turned them into an earth 
pit, where some old sashes were placed over them, and air 
given very moderately, except in fine warm deys, when the 
sashes were freely tilted or lifted off, and we thus gathered at 
the usual time in May and June, but at a considerable expen- 
diture of care and Jabour. By such a system some of our 
stubbier shorter-leaved Cauliflower might be brought in very 
early ; but in common circumstances it would not be valued so. 
long as in common seasons we get euch nice Broccoli in May 
and June. In such a season as this, where, as in this neigh- 
bourhood, there is little or no Broccoli, such a slight forcing 
of the Cauliflower would be a matter of importance. 

Heat of a Mushroom Bed.—In order to obtain Mushrooms 
quickly in a house newly repaired, and the repairing of which 
threw us back later than we wanted, we spawned and earthed 
a bed sooner than we have generally recommended. After 
spawning and earthing, the bed heated rather more than we 
expected, rising above 100°, instead of being from 80° to 90°. 
As we had commenced another bed we let it take its chance, | 
merely keeping the bed rather cool by admitting air, &e. We 
have had a very good return from the back and the front of the 
bed, but in this bed, from 34 to 4 feet in width, for about 
18 inches in width along its centre we have scarcely had & 
Mushroom. Here the heat would be the greatest. Both back 
and front produced very freely, but we do not expeci the middle 
part will do any good. A lady told us some time ago that 
the greatest benefit she derived from the Journal was from 
studying the honest details of failures and want of success. 
But for the short time of extra heat, we have no doubt our bed 
would have been uniformly covered all over. With a greater 
heat still, the whole bed would have suffered. As on the 
whole we had plenty of Mushrooms, we might have said nothing 
about the unproductive part along the centre, but then we 
should have let slip a strong argument to beginners to beware of 
toomuch heat. The great majority of failures in Mushroom beds 
arise from overheating the spawn. But for our wishing to 
have Mushrooms as quickly as possible we would not have 
earthed our bed for a week or so; and then, if after spawning. 
the bed threatened to become rather warm, we would either 
have removed the spawn for a short time, or left it exposed on 
the surface of the bed until the bulk of the bed was no warmer 
than new milk. A little watchfulness is the chief requisite for 
insuring uniform success with Mushrooms. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Waving other matters we intended taking up, we may merely 
state that our chief work among plants has been potting and 
cleaning Ferns, planting out temporarily and hardening off 
bedding plants; but except resorting to contrivances several 
times adverted to, there is little or nothing which has not pre- 
viously been referred to. Such dripping weather as we have 
lately had will do good if it only convince some people that 
a largo lawn is a large expense. Strange to say that pecple 
who begin to look at the expense of a garden will think nothing 
of their many acres of lawn, and yet think that an acre or two 
of kitchen garden must do more than wonders. Much might 
be done were it clearly understood that nothing is more expen- 
sive than short grass well kept. 

Where there is a scarcity of room, and much display is wanted 
in summer, all plants with bulbs, corms, or tubers, many Bego- 
nias, Gloxinias, Caladiums, Gesneras, &c., that remain torpid in’ 
winter, are extremely useful. For instance, we have never had 
the Gesnera zebrina so fine as when kept under the not-too- 
dense shade of Vines, until it showed its flower-stems. We have 


326 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ May 4, 1871. 


also had it very fine in pits, the glass shaded with a coating of 
milk, with just a little powdered whiting in it, a little uir being 
left on at night as well as by day; but if ever the sun touch 
the fine foliage with condensed yapour on it, farewell to all 
your previous care, the foliage will be spotted and marred, and 
che plants totally unfit for gracing a lady’s bower. Hencea 
zoomy house partially shaded is better for this plant than a pit, 
as in the latter a very short time of neglect will spoil the look 
of the plants for the season. The tubers should now be got 
out, and placed shallow in pans, to start them into growth, and 
then they may be regulated according to their strength. Five 
good tubers will makea gorgeous mass in an 8-inch pot. We 
have had fine plants from a single tuber in a 5 or 6-inch pot. 
‘Good fibrous sweet loam, with about one-fourth of old dried 
sweet cow dung, lightened with silver sand and bits of charcoal, 
will grow this plant to perfection. When fairly started it 
should never be syringed nor watered overhead. As hinted 
above, the sun should never reach a leaf before the leaf is dry. 
The less moisture on a leaf at any time the richer will be its 
velvety texture and colour.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


James Brooke & Co., 16, 18, Victoria Street, and Fairfield, Man- 
chester.—Catalogue of Select Orchids, Palms, Ferns, Nepenthes, 
Vines, Pines, &c. 

John Scott, Merriott Nurseries, Crewkerne, and Yeovil, Somerset.— 


Flower Garden Annual, Directory, and Catalogue of Bedding Plants. | 


T. Bunyard & Sons, Maidstone and Ashford.—List of Bedding-out 
Plants, Greenhouse Plants, dc. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 


__Booxs (Salop).—‘ The Vine Manual” and “ Pearson’s Orchard House.” 
You can have the first-named for 2s 8d , and the second for 1s. 7d., free 


by post from our office, if you enclose the amount in postage stamps with 
your address. 


ADDRESS (V. N.).—We believe the firm is Messrs. Handyside. 


J. Coomss, ENFreip (J. H. G.).—We cannot give you more information 


than is in the advertisement, ang cannot say why your letters were 
returned, 


s DIsToRTED Snoor oF As# (Ash-shoot).—It is not an uncommon mal- 
formation, and when thus flattened and widened it is termed “ fasciated.” 


RHODODENDRON Princess Louise oF Lorne (J. Nelson).—It is a very 
fine specimen of a very handsome flower. The colour is purplish rose 
with purple spots in the throat ; each flower is of good substance, 8 inches 
in diameter, and the truss fully 18 inches in circumference. We should 
‘have thought it must have been from a large vigorous tree, and not, as 
you say, from a small plant in an 8-inch pot. 


SUMMER-PRUNING Wau Fruit Trees (4 New Subscriber).—The short 
sSummer-pruning, as given in the ‘‘ Modern Peach Pruner,” may be applied 


to Plums, Pears, and Cherries as regards the growing shoots, but the | 
spurs must not be interfered with, nor the shoots that are required for | 


extension. The shoots stopped will, in autumn, require to be cut back to 
‘within about an inch of their base. We consider an Apricot tree in good 
health will bring to maturity two fruit to every square foot of wall 
overed. Much heavier crops are taken at a sacrifice of size, quality, and 
future bearing. 


Compost For Puants (.J. W.).—Lapageria rosea requires a compost of 
‘abrous peat broken up rather roughly, adding silver sand liberally. Good 
érainage must be afforded, as the watering must be very liberal. Lo- 
phospermum scandens, Maurandya albiflora, Tropwolum canariense, 
“LT. Lobbianum, and Cobza scandens succeed in a compost of two parts 
turfy loam, one part leaf soil, one part sandy peat, and a free admixture 
of sharp sand. It suits Ipommas, Thunbergia alata, one part old lime 
wubbish being added. 


Various (Amateur, Dublin).—1, Woodlice in a hotbed will eat the leaves 
and stems of plants. They may be destroved by placing a boiled Potato 
wrapped loosely in a little hay in a small flower pot, and laying it on its 
side in the frame at night, and in the morning shaking them out into a 
bucket of boiling water. 2, The climbers in the greenhouse beneath the 
stage will not be injured by want of sun. Ours receive no sun, nor do 
climbing plants naturally. 3, You may grow Cucumbers in a greenhouse, 
but only by removing the plants or ruining them. They are best grown 
an frames, or in a house set apart for them. 4, A hotbed of properly pre- 
pared material will retain warmth for from six to thirteen weeks, but 
after a fortnight or three weeks the heat begins to decline, and can only 
‘be kept up by linings of hot dung, After the maximum heat is attained 
the temperature begins to decline. 


AsparaGus Weak (E. C. K.).—The growth being weak you could not do 
‘better than allow the heads to grow; andif the bed is thin of plants we 
would drop two or three seeds in holes about a foot apart and three- 
quarters of an inch deep, in the bare places; in summer, or after May, 
supply liquid manure abundantly in gutters between the rows, and at 
weekly intervals in dry weather to the middle of September. In moist 
weather the watering may be at intervals of from ten days to a fortnight, 
but you can hardly overdo it. 


CoLUMNEA SCHIEDIANA FLOWERS FAuuine (J. B.).—We think this is 
wing to the roots not being in a healthy state, and the plants being 
grown in too high a temperature during the winter. In winter it requires 
to have all the light you can afford, and no more water than enough to 
keep it in health; when showing for flower water more freely, and yet do 
not overwater. In winter afford a temperature of 5)° to 55°, and in 
summer 60° to 85° will be suitable. Nothing isa greater mistake than to 
roast this class of plants, or stew them in a hot, close, moist stove in 
winter. Good drainage is very important; and a compost of equal parts 


sandy peat, light turfy loam, half part charcoal, and a like quantity of 
silver sand, and a sixth part old dry cow dung or leaf soil, will grow it 
well. The atmosphere requires to be moderately moist. 

Berriep AUCUBAS FoR ConseRvATORY (G. S.).—We usually take up 
our plants as soon in spring as we can tell those most likely to bear the 
greatest quantity of berries—such are, of course, those showing most 
flower buds—and we pot them and place in a cold house, and this forwards 
the flowering, so that there is not ‘so very much difference between the 
berry-bearing and male plants in flowering. If the male be the earlier, 
the pellen is collected on white, dry paper, and is kept until the others 
flower, when the pollen is applied to the flowers of the berry plant, andin 
the early part of the day when the flowers are dry. It will answer quite 
as wellif a male plant in flower be placed close to the berry-bearing sort, 
both being in flower simultaneously. You may fertilise those in the 
open borders, take them up early in autumn, and keep them in u cool 
house. To have berries of good colour early in winter the plants require 
to be grown in a cool house, an orchard house, or similar structure. Your 
best plan would be to purchase some male flowers, which you will see 
advertised in our columns. 


PLANTS FOR BEDS IN WINTER (dn Amateur)—For flowering in early 
summer you may have—1, Arabis albida, edged with Bellis aucubefolia ; 
2, Alyssum saxatile compactum, edged Arabis alpina variegata ; 3, Aubrie- 
tia greca, edged Cerastium tomentosum ; 4, Cheir:nthus Marshalli, edged 
Cliveden Blue Pansy; 5, Silene pendula, edged Adonis vernalis; 6, Ane- 
mone vars, edged with double lilac Primrose. 

WALLFLOWERS (Hampton Wick).—There are no named sorts, but Chei- 
ranthus Marshalli, C alpina, and double red, black, and yellow; and as 
you are very fond of this flower, we would advise you to sow some seed; 
also German double Wallflower, in a collection of ten varieties. A large 
Red Cuan for the wall is Houghton Castle or Victoria, the other White 

utch. 


CARNATION AND Pansy Sowine (J. H.).—You do not say whether you 
have convenience for heat or not, but we presume you haye. In that 
case we advise you to sow the seed now in pans filled to within an inch of 


, the rim with a compost of two parts light fibrous loim, and one part leaf 


mould, with a free admixture of sharp sand, and then {fill to nearly the 
rim with the same sifted. Scatter the seed thinly, and just cover with 
fine soil Place ina gentle hotbed, and when fiirly up remove to a cold 
frame, keeping near the glass, and with abundance of air. When large 
enough to handle prick-off in the open ground in good, rich, light soil, in 
the first instance about 3 inches apart, and in autumn you may thin out 
every alternate row and plant, leaving the others in the bed, and those 
taken up may be planted-out where they are to flower. 


PLANTS FOR VasES BEFORE A House (Awee).—Nothing does better in 
a hot place in a vase than the old Scarlet Tom Tbumb Geravium. If that 
suits the wall of the house, then we should say use it. Succulents, as 
Portulacas of the crimson kinds, would look splendid when the sua 
shone, but dull in dull weather. We object to planting round the base of 
vases altogether, but if you had scarlet above you might have blue or 


| purple beneath, or yellow Golden Feather, and Biue Lobelia. 


GoLDEN-LEAVED GERANIUMS LosInG CoLour (J ©. H.)—Therich rubble 
leaf mould and dung are the canses of your Gold-leaved Geraniums 
becoming greenish out of doors. You must be satisfied with less growth 
in poorer soil. 

Lapy Downe’s VINE MILDEWED (Subscriber, Lincoln).—There sem ap- 
pearances of blotching more than of mildew on the leaves. The hanging 
with dew in a morning is alike a sign of rich robust growth, bat it also 
shows that there is much moist vapour in the house. For cure, dust 
mildewed parts with flowers of sulpaour ; for prevention, use sulphur on 
the heating medium, when it does not rise higher than 160° to 170°, place 
sulphur on the walls and shelyes where exposed to the sun, and givea 
little more dry heat and more air, especially early inthe morning. But 
we See you give no fire heat, then use the sulphur. and give more air. 
The Lady Downe’s will not ripen kindly without a little heat. Having 
two shoots instead of one from a spur isa matter of taste. Your preposed 
plan willanswer very w but, cut a fruitful Vine how you will, you will 
have fruit. 


Grapes DisEAseD (H. L. C.).—Of the berries sent two seem as if they 
had been scalded, and one had a spot resembling mildew, but they were 
so shrivelled we could not be sure. Two berries were badly rusted, and 
the young ones setting were also shrivelled and rusted. We attribute the 
first partly to want of early air-giving and to too great an amount of 


‘atmospheric moisture in the house, and part'y to the same cause, along 


with the above, that has affected the other two specimens—namely, too 
high night temperature and the escape of sulphurous exhalations from 
the flues so heated. The sulphur fumes would be eyen more dangerous 
than a little smoke escaping from the flue. The niyht temperature, 
80°, was a great deal too high ; from 65° to 70° with flue heating would be 
safer. Sulphur fumes are most dangerous to Grapes setting and just 
set, and the Hamburgh is extra tender at that time. We once saw a 
little house of Hamburghs with tue little berries all rusted, from coating 
the hot-water pipes with sulphur, and causing the water to boil in them 
or nearly so. Sulphur should be used carefully when the Grapes are 
small and young. Use less heat and moisture, and more air. 


VinE Canes Deap (E.) —It is very singular that the leaves of the 
Vines so well treated should be dead, if the shoots were looked after 
last autumn when replanting, for that was of importance in September. 
Have you dressed the Vines with some strong mixture? Haye rats or 
mice nibbled the stems, sheltered by your covering? We fear there is no 
chance of the Vines breaking now, better plant fresh ones atonce. [f the 
Vines are sound at bottom they will break and grow strongly, but they 
should be doing so if sound. 


AIR-ROOTS IN VINES (W. H.).—You will find this subject well discussed 
by Mr. Record, in No. 363 of this Journal. We agree with him in con- 
sidering that it is an effort of the Vine to obtain more nourishment. The 
air of the house should be kept rather cooler and rather drier, and the 
action of the roots promoted by watering with weak tepid manure water. 


PLANT AND VINE House ‘4 Constant Reader)—The size of your house 
is all right, if it suits you. Merely as a matter of taste we would prefer it to 
be longer—that is, as 2 to 8, so that the width being 12, the length should 
bo 18 feet, but the compact place will hold a number of small plants. 
Your mode of ventilation at the froat and top by hinged ventilators will 
answer, but you had better have 9 inches instead of 6 at the top. Itis 


May 4, 1871. ] 


easy to give little, but in a small opening you cannot give more than the 
opening. If the house is on your own property, your cheapest plan is to 
have a fixed roof, rafter sash-bars 14 by 44, 18 inches apart, so as to 
receive glass '8 inches wide, and glaze in the usual way, glass 21-oz. to 
the foot, and 4ths will answer your purpose, As to your flue, see that 
your furnace is low enough, and that your furnace-bars are fully 18 inches 
beneath the bottom of your flue. The direction of the flue is all right 
enough, but the mode of making it is a very expensive one, making an 
air-flue all round outside of the fire-flue. We would make the flue, for 
2feet from the furnace, brick-on-bed, then two bricks-on-edge for the 
space you mention would be ample, and it should be far enough between 
the sides to be covered with a 9-inch-thick tile. Do not cover with slate, 
as nothing stands dry heat worse. We presume your Vine border slopes 
or falls from the house; in that case we do not see much use in having 
drain-tiles from the flue through the border, as heated air is loath to go 
‘down hill. The drainage of the border across and in front would be 
more important. In making the border use the sandy loam and rotten 
turf, and eyen more bones along with the lime rubbish, but as the soil in 
bulk is rather light, we would not use the ashes from burnt rubbish. 
Rather clean charcoal is a different thing, and a few bushels or barrow- 
loads of that would be useful. A few inches of litter put on the border 
early in the autumn will keep the frost out. The best sort of Vines for 
“your purpose would be the Black Hamburgh, and especially for sale. If 
your preferred one white, have the Royal Muscadine. If you forced in 
February you would have to remove the Geraniums when you raised the 
house above 60°. The most economical use of such a house would be to 
jet the Vines break of themselves, and seldom have the house above 45° 
with fire heat, until the buds were swelling. The shelf for Strawberries 
will do very well if they have unobstructed sunlight. 


Funai (C.B., Chippenham).—It is by no means uncommon for Morels 
and other fungi to appear suddenly in pastures, hedgerows, and on lawns 
and elsewhere where no trace of such things had ever been known before. 
We believe the matter has never been fully explained. We knew of an 
instance of an immense fairy ring, 27 feet in diameter, of Agaricus 
geotrupus suddenly appearing on a lawn in front of a gentleman’s house. 
These fungi, which were never there before, appeared in this gigantic 
ring for one year, and have never appeared since. This fungus is one of 
the largest of all Agarics, and could not have failed to make itself known 
had it been present. The Morel (Morchella esculenta) is considered very 
good stewed; gather fresh specimens, cut them in quarters, and simmer 
for about forty minutes with a piece of ham. Or they may be opened 
and stuffed with veal stuffing, and baked with butter. When well cooked 
they become perfectly tender, and are excellent cating.—W. G. S. 


GARDEN Puan (4 Subscriber, 4. C. H.).—We fear we cannot criticise 
your plan usefully. The flower garden on each side of the house will tell 
very nicely, and the greenhouse would be valued by some because you 
must pass one of the flower gardens to get to it. On account of the 
house being unequal in width, a part of the mansion for some 25 feet in 
‘ength will have a double width of gravel. If nothing else interfered with 
the idea, that space for a width of 10 feet or so might be made into a neat 
plant house, so0 a3 to come in line with the greater part of the front of the 
mansion. Whatever room formed the part of that—dining-room, drawing- 
room, or sitting-room, the light would be little interfered with by a light 
glass structure, and the enjoyment is great of being able at once by 
a glass door to go at once among pretty plants. To make the flower 
garden between the two entrances distinct, we should be inclined to make 
that into arosery. The lines of the walks are very graceful and easy. 
Without seeing the place we would rather object to the bed of flowers 1, 
at the baze of the sloping bank, and more especially as that gives a sort 
of reason for dividing by a walk the two lawns, L, L, and hecause that walk 
will be a prominent object from the windows of the principal rooms. We 
do not think there is any beauty in gravel merely looked at by itself, and 
its appearance there takes away from the massiveness of the lawn. We 
would prefer a rather open picturesque glade in front of the mansion. We 
would, therefore, be chary of flower beds on that lawn, and confine them 
chiefly to the respective ends, leaving the centre free. A few choice 
shrubs and specimens of Cupressus, Araucaria, Deodars, &c., would be 
better, but these are mere matters of taste. We should like to know how 
you decide as to the middle walk between the two lawns. 


VARIEGATED PELARGONIUMS Losina CoLourR (4. D.).—We have never 
known any become entirely green, and cannot understand why yours 
should exhibit that tendency. We grow ours in a cold pit. We pot the 
plants from April to October, and they are placed with the leaves about 
9 inches from the glass—not nearer; they have air day and night 
when the weather is mild, and are slightly shaded from hot sun from 
9am.to4P.u. We use a compost of light turfy loam two parts, one part 
old dry manure, and a free admixture of sand. The soil is kept moist, 
but no water is given until the soil becomes dry, but before the leaves 
fiag, and then enough is supplied to show itself at the drainage. 


RosESs ON THEIR OWN Roots (T. G.).—On their own roots they are not 
so free in growth for a time as those worked on the Manetti stock. Your 
best plan will be to put in some cuttings next July, just after flowering, 
in a cold frame, keep them close and shaded until they are growing freely, 
then give them air, and harden off. Another good plan is to put in 
euttings in September under a north wall, and let them remain until the 
following April; then take them up and pot, or plant out where required. 


SELECT PELARGONIUMS (J. W. P.).—The following are good:—Arch- 
bishop, Charles Turner, Congress, Consul Cameron, Emperor, Lady of 
the Lake, Menilek, Mr. Rassam, Prince Humbert, Troubadour, Lord 
Napier, and Envoy. Those are Show serts. A few newer of the same 
class are Claribel, Her Majesty, Maid of Honour, Regent, Heroine, Cor- 
sair, Marion Wilkie, and Cycle. Fancy :—Belle of the Season, Bright- 
ness, Fanny Gair, Lady Dorothy Nevill, Formosa, Lord.of the Isles, Mrs. 
Alfred Wigan, Mrs. Mendel, Princess Teck, Undine, Pink Perfection, and 
Duchess of Buccleuch. A few newer of the same—Leotard, Excelsior, 
Marmion, Lady Carrington, East Lynn, and Agrippa. Spotted :—Cybele, 
Boileau, Argus, Fortunio, Madame Cleriet, Midas, Monsieur le Play, 
Monsieur Prévot, Princesse Mathilde, Ptolomée, Theophraste, and Chris- 
topher Colomb. A few newer are Hector, Jeanne Millot, Caméléon, 
Danae, Ernest Duval, Monsieur Caillot, Yvonne,and Armide. You would 
see what was said in last week’s Journal of the early-flowering sorts. 


Fruit TREES UNPRODUCTIVE (J. B.).—We are unable to account for 
the unfruitfulness of the trees, but we think it is owing to their vigour. 
The shoots required for extension must be trained in at their full length 
without stopping, but all others we would stop at the third leaf, and after- 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 327 


wards keep stopped to one leaf throughout the season. The spurs, 0° 
short shoots with clusters of leaves, we would preserve entire. We think 
that they must form fruit buds this season. The Cherry trees we would 
mulch with short manure, and we would give a good soaking of water 
whea the trees ave in flower, and again when the bloom is set, repeating 
it occasionally in dry weather. 

GLADIOLUSES In Pors (7. G.).—The plants you intend to flower in 
pots should now be transferred to 9-inch pots (we presume you have five 
in each pot); continue them in the frame, but draw off the lights in mild 
weather, and water freely, giving sprinklings of water overhead daily, 
and liquid manure twice a-week after May. After that time the lights 
will not be required. The pots should now be removed to a cold frame. 
If you wish the plants to flower early they may be continued under 
glass, giving them plenty of air, and frequent syringings, so as to keep 
down red spider. Those for out-doors we plant out after this where they 
are to flower, not placing them in larger pots, but turning them out, 
Water freely in dry weather. 


RHODODENDRONS FROM SEED (7. J. H.) —Sow the seed now in pans, 
boxes, or a cold frame, putting in about 6 inches of sandy peat, and make 
the surface very fine. Just cover the seeds with very fine soil. If sown 
in pots or pans they must be well drained, and placed in a cold frame 
until the seedlings are fairly up, and then give air, by degrees removing 
the lights. It is necessary that the soil should be kept moist, but avoid 
making it sodden. In severe weather afford protection from frost, and the 
spring after sowing prick out in a sheltered situation, and if shaded from 
the mid-day sun all the better. They will do very well at 3 inches apart. 
Water in dry weather. 


AsPARAGUS. WEAK (Ignoramus).—Allow the shoots to grow, cutting none 
but those fit for table, and water, after the middle of May, with liquid 
manure, which you cannot give too freely nor too often, and to every 
gallon add 1 oz. of salt, but this not oftener than once a-fortnight. To 
make sure of the liquid entering the soil, givejit in gatters between the 
rows. You will have better Asparagus next year. See reply to another 
correspondent in this day’s Journal. 


Meton Leaves ScorcHep (4. B.).—The leaves are scorched probably 
from air not being given sufficiently early, so as to have the leaves dry 
before the sun shines powerfully onthem. It may, however, be due to 
the giass, which, being very clear, admits the sun’s rays too powerfully, 
which you may determine by affording a slight shade in the hottest part 
of the day, using the lightest description of floral shading you can. 
They need this shading most after a period of dull weather, during which 
the leaves become more succulent, and are liable to scald on a return of 
bright weather. The soil you name will do. We presume you make it 
firm, that being necessary to secure short-jointed wood and firm leaves ; 
but from the leaf sent we fear your soil is too open, as the leaf is too thin 
in substance, and therefore very subject to the attacks of red spider and 
thrips. Admit more air and early, closing earty in the afternoon, and 
make the soil hard. 


Wuica Bup oF A SCION SHOULD BE ALLOWED To SHoor ? (7. G.).—In 
reply to your query relative to ‘“‘the new mode of grafting” on page 3)6, 
Mr. Kingsley says—‘‘ The reasons for making the shoots from one of the 
lower buds the leader are simple, and are just the same as for allowing a 
bud on the nataral branch to remain and start (in budding) and be finally 
suppressed. The stock receives a tremendous shock in grafting, and the 
root action is checked for a time, but recovers after a few leaves ara 
expanded. The lower buds in this way are more likely to start with 
vigour; the topmost bud is pretty sure to start feebly, unless it be from 
a terminal eye. Then the shoot from a low bud swells over the top of 
the stock at once, so both getting more hold of the stock and healing its 
wounds. In stone fruits the scion is very apt to get hidebound if there 
is much space between the top of the stock and the shoot. I have three 
Oranges at present growing from recent grafts. A slug stopped one at 
the ninth leaf. ‘The shoot from the eye below is already more than twice 
as strong as any of the lot. I have grafted several hundreds of trees 
annually for some time, and I am quite sure of the truth of what I stated. 
You have only to see a few to be convinced. The sort of growth varies 
with the subject. In Pears and Apples I leave the top of the scion fre- 
quently a3 a spur, but in stone fruits I cut it close off, so that you cannot 
tell whether the tree has been grafted or budded.—W. K.” 


SPAN-ROOFED Houses on 4 Stops (Ajar).—As you must use that slope 
of 1 foot in 20, there need be no difficulty in having houses 150 feet long, 
and built on the slope of the ground, and having the boiler at the lower 
end. The heating will be all the more effective from the regular rise of 
the pipes. No doubt you will get the heating done as well by having two 
houses 100 feet long, but the principle of heating will be in both cases 
the same, and we should not be afraid of the heating in either case. In 
such a position, however, we might feel more disposed to have lean-to 
roofs, with hipped roofs at back, and have the houses on the level with slopes 
between them. You can have plenty of bottom heat from your Cucum- 
ber house by having pipes in a chamber instead of a tank, but your 
evaporating-pans will not act so well on such an incline, unless you make 
them very deep.. We would be satisfied with clinkers round the pipes, 
which we could moisten at pleasure. Whatever your opinion of tanks, 
you can do nothing with them on such an incline unless they are as close 
as pipes. 

Guazinc WirHout Laps (Alfred Downes’,—You do not state what part” 
of our advice you neglected. All we can say is, that there is no necessary 
connection between glazing without laps and flooding from rain, if toe 
work is properly done. There must be something defective in your work 
if after lapping the glass the success is little better. Even a flat garden 
frame will take off the rains, and your roof must either be very flat, or 
the glazing badly done. To have two panes for a length of 7 feet, you 
should have 21 or 25-oz. sheet glass, but we ourselves for common 
purposes would prefer four squares to two squares. Of course, you could 
place strips of wood across, beneath the joinings where there is no lap, 
and that bedded against the glass would prevent drip. If the work is 
well done there ought to be no drip. If the house is flat-roofed, have 
from one-eighth to one-quarter-inch laps. 

PREVENTING WEEDS oN WALKS (Le rosby).—No plan is so effectual as 
asphalting the surface. The walks are rendered drier, firmer, and no 
weeds ever appear. We have repeatedly published directions for as- 
phalting. 

ANTS oN 4 Lawn (4. C.).—We think the little hillocks are caused by 
ants. We know of nothing that would drive them away so soon as sprink- 


328 


ling the hills with guano; but as that in quantity would brown the grass 
for a time, we would pour into the hilis a solution of soft soap, 8 ozs. to 
the gallon, adding to every gallon a fluid ounce of spirits of turpentine, 
and then dress the Jawn with guano at the rate of 3 cwt. per acre, apply- 
ing it in moist weather. 

Names or Fuants (S. W.).—Sparmannia africana. Propagate by cut- 
tngs. It will bearthe winter under greenhouse treatment without risk. 
(M1. D.).—The shrub is Cotoneaster vulgaris; the herbaceous plant Sco- 
polia carniolica. (M.C.).—Ilicium floridanum. (Melton Mowbray).—The 
seedling state of some Pteris, we cannot say which, but possibly near 
P. flabellata. (G. Knight).—1, Chrysanthemum frutescens, the Antnémis 
of the French; 2, Begonia Ingramii. (J. R. P.).—Your Orchid flower was 
so smashed as to be undeterminable. It probably may be some Epiden- 
drum, allied to E. glaucum, but the column, &c.. were so utterly mutilated 
it is impossible to speak with any confidence. (Hast Sussem).—i, Dedala- 
canthus nervosus; 2, Phymatodes Billardieri; 3, Balantium Culcita; 
4, Aspleninm yiviparum ; 5, Blechnum occidentale; 6, Spironema fragrans; 
7, Acacia pulchelld; 8, Rhododendron, not yet recognised ; 9, Peristropke 
speciosa; 10, Sanseviera zeylanica. (R. R.).—1, Deutzia scabra; 2, Habro- 
thamnus, not identified; 3, Ageratum glaucum; 4, Mimosa, not in flower 
and undeterminable ; 5, An Acanthad, not in bloom, but apparently some 
Thrysacanthus. (fF. W.).—Narcissus Jonquilla fiore-pleno. (J. H., Fota 
Island).—3, Saxifraga crassifolia; 4, Aconitum Napelius; 5, Pulmonaria 
angustifolia. (B. W.).—1, Begonia; 2, Sedum Sieboldii foliis variegatis ; 
3, S#xifraga sarmentosa; 4, Opuntia micrantha; 5, Cereus Mallisonii. 
(Inquirer, Bromley).—The Oncidium is O. sessile. As to the seedling 
Azaleas, they are good, but not sufficiently distinct from others already 
in cultivation. (J. P.).—Corydalis lutea. (Flora).—Bougainvillea specta- 
bilis is most certainly not a native of Australia, and can only be culti- 
vated there. Itis native of South America, of Brazil,Peru, &c. (A Fern 
Admirer).—No., 2 is the true Adiantum Capillus-Veneris; No. 1 is A. cune- 
atum. 
not the variety amc@na, now so mutch grown. (——).—1, Clematis mon- 
tana; 2,an Australian species of Olearia, also known as an Eurybiain 
gardens. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


OVER-FATTENING FOWLS FOR EXHIBITION. 


Iwourp strongly advise ‘‘F.S. F.” (see page 281) to in- 
quire, before purchasing fowls of any kind, what the owner 
generally feeds them upon. The Buff Cochin he mentions had 
evidently been fed to a great extent, if not entirely, upon 
maize, than which I do not think there can be anything worse 
for poultry, especially the large breeds. 
exactly as he describes, and fills the birds internally with fat 
of a deep yellow colour, which, as a matter of course, soon pre- 
yents their laying, and eventually kills them. 

I had my attention drawn to this subject at first by the poor 
appearance of my chickens when dressed for the table, having 
expected the very opposite, from their great weight when 
living. They had scarcely any flesh on the breast, and looked 
altogether like half-starved creatures. Thinking their food 
could not be suitable (maize, ground and whole), I changed it 
for oztmeal paste in the morning, and whole barley at night, 
with most satisfactory results. 

I think exhibition birds, such as Dorkings, Brahmas, and 
Cochins, when size and weight go a long way with the judges, 
should never have maize given them in any form; it may do 
for birds of more active habits on large runs, but even they in 
time, I think, would fall victims to it—in fact, this winter I saw 
a wild Pheasant opened, and it presented all the appearances 
above described. On inquiry I find it is a common practice to 
throw it down for them in the woods on account of its cheap- 
ness. Now, I think this is the secret of its popularity as poultry 
food; it is fashionable to term low-priced things cheap, but, 
nevertheless, a mistake. Peameal, which may often be bought 
at about the same price, is far superior in every respect, par- 
ticularly when mixed with a little fine bran (thirds flour), which 
again reduces the price, and has this great advantage—it 
lays the fat on in the right place, and the birds are easily 
reduced in condition if required, which is not the case with 


maize.—T. W. L. 
eT Oe 


REARING CHICKENS. 


Iam generally considered the most fortunate of mortals. I 
have not entered ‘‘the fancy” long, yet a very fair amount of 
success has fallen to my lot. Three beautiful silver cups adorn 
my drawing-room; one, a centre piece to the table, attracts the 
attention of all who enter the room, and they think me skilled 
beyond all ordinary beings in poultry lore, and acquainted with 
every secret at all worth knowing. My stock, too, sells as fast 
as I could wish; had I possessed three times the number I 
could have sold them all last season. Fanciers send for my 
photograph, so that I begin to think I must be pretty well 
known in the poultry world. Correspondents write to me from 
America. I have sent birds to the States, as well as to France 


(4. C.).—Primula cortusoides, the original condition of the plant, | 


It enlarges the liver | 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 4, 1871. 


and Australia. My eggs, too, sell for 1s. apiece, and if I liked 
the trade I could do quite a business in this line. 

Yet, if the truth is to be told, I consider myself the most 
unlucky of mortals. I have a splendid yard; birds are there 
which haye won high honours, and I had supposed I should 
soon be able to face our first fanciers.. Bat alas for human 
hopes! I cannot rear my chickens. I read that Dorkings are 
just a8 easy to rear as other sorts, and it may be so, but my 
experience is very different. What oughtI to feed my young 
chickens on? I give them oatmeal or ground oats slaked with 
warm milk, and chopped egg, and now andthen alittle meat. For 
a change they have rice boiled in milz mixed with the oatmeal, 
and sometimes potatoes mixed in the same way. And yet half 
of them pine away and die. I should like to try custard, but 
none of the books tell me how to make it, nor have I ever geen 
the receipt in the Journal. The damp (I carefully shut up my 
chickens in the morning) may do some injury, though we are 
on gravel, not on clay, but this cannot account for the constant 
losses we are sustaining. Then we put sulphate of iron in the 
water; we try new ground, and keep our chickens carefully 
in the dry, and yet we cannot succeed. It is true we shalt 
probably rear seventy chickens in all; but seventy out of a 
hundred hatched, or even more, is a very poor proportion. 
Pray tell me where I am wrong. Ii Mr. Wright, whose con- 
tributions are always worth reading, or Mr. Kell, or any other 
experienced fancier, will put me right, he will confer no slight 
favour on—O. P. Q 


INFLUENCE OF THE MALE BIRD. 


In 1869 I reared some Gold and Silver Poland chickens from 
eggs bought of Mr. Beldon, and for convenience allowed all the 
pullets to run together with a Golden Poland cockerel till about 
Christmas, or it may have been a week or two later, when I 
parted them for breeding purposes. I afterwards sold the 
Silver pullets, with a cockerel which I had of Mr. Boothby, to 
a neighbour, who bred from them about May, and of course 
expected Silver chickens; but to his surprise as well as my 
own, about half of them were pure Golden, without a trace of 
Silver, the others having no trace of Golden. He afterwards 
tried another sitting with exactly the same results. This must 
have been nearly five months after the separation from the 
Golden cockerel.—J. Buoopwortu, Cheltenham. 


STROUD POULTRY SHOW. 


In reply to ‘‘ AN Onp Exurprtor’s”’ appeal to the Managers of 
the Stroud Poultry Show, to alter the date of their meeting so as 
not to clash in point of time with that of the Bath and West 
of England Society, to be held at Guildford, I beg to say, on 
behalf of the Committee, that in making their fixture they 
never intended clashing with that or any other meeting, and as 
soon as their attention was called to it they seriously con- 
sidered its postponement, but found it was impracticable with- 
out coming into collision with other shows; one argument 
against it being that birds penned a whole week at Guildford, 
would not be in condition to show again for some time after- 
wards. Further than this, the Show has been advertised to 
take place at Whitsuntide, which is a great holiday in this 


‘neighbourhood, in connection with a public féte, so that to 


alter the date in any way would insure considerable loss, and 
be breaking faith with the public. It is to be regretted on 
account of its inconvenience to exhibitors that two important 
meetings should be held on the same days; but the Committee 
are content to leave the matter to the discernment of exhibitors, 
fally relying upon their splendid array of prizes and extensive 
schedule of classes to insure @ good entry. If, however, as 
“ An Otp Exurpiror’’ predicts, our Show suffer in point of 
attractiveness through the absence of many of the best pens of 
poultry in England, it follows, of course, that the valuable 
silver cups and other prizes offered for competition at Stroud 
will fall very easily to somebody. But the Committee beg to. 
differ with him in this, and believe that exhibitors generally 
will show their appreciation of our efforts to establish a per- 
manent annual gathering, by supporting our liberal prize 
schedule, and send their best specimens to compete for the 
best prizes.—R. Barrerr, Hon. See., Stroud. 


GREAT HARWOOD SHOW. 
Mr. Asuworts, I find, though an entire stranger to me, was 
introduced by the Secretary, though without the mention of 
any name, as ‘the gentleman who would go round with me” 


—:~— 


—e 


May 4, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 829 


whilst arbitrating. For your information I will also state why, 
long after this introduction, and before I began judging at all, 
but was waiting for the penning of the birds, then going on, 
I said to the Secretary, Mr. Clayton, ‘‘ Never ask mo here again, 
for I will not come.”’ It was because (as per Journal of April 
27th) ‘our officer, who has been connected with the Society for 
many years,” said to me, ‘‘ That’s my pen. Iam showing two 
pens in that class,” &c. Lam quite prepared to make an affidavit 
that both pens of winning Dragoons, when judged, were Yellows, 
and that Mr. Yardley’s two pens (as per catalogue), one a pair 
of Barbs, and the other a single Carzier, were empty pens 
when I awarded the prizes—entirely empty. 

I know nothing at all of the feeding or watering of any of the 
pens in the show, for I saw nothing whatever (myself) of either 
duty. Mr. Yardley, if seems, won two second prizes out of 
twelve pens exhibited. 

I am confident beyond the possibility of mistake, if the 
catalogues sold at the show are worthy of dependanes, that 
Mr. Ashworth's pen of Dragoons, second prize, pen 389, were, 
when judged, Yellows; Mr. Yaraley’s highly commended pen, 
391, were then, when judged, Blues. 

If such practices are rendered permissible in poultry shows, 
the respectable portion of society will withdraw from a pursuit 
in itself health-giving and harmless, but which might at length 
equal the worst features of s racecourse.—Epwanp Hewitt. 


[As Mr. Hewitt does not intend to proceed against one of 
the parties mixed up with the proceedings at this show, we 
have inserted his letter. We have received other letters upon 
the subject, but it is needless to insert more,—Eps. ] 


BEE-KEEPING FOR. COTTAGERS. 
AuTHoucH it is an indisputable fact that cottagers may, in 
favourable situations, materially add to their by-no-means-large 
incomes by what is commonly termed ‘‘ bee-keeping,” yet how 
few avail themselves of the opportunity ; and apart from the 
question of profit, there is without doubt a great moral benefit 
to be derived from the practice. The man who undertakes the 
judicious management of bees, will seldom fail to follow the 
example of industry set by these diligent and hard-working little 
- labourers, and profit accordingly; his garden will generally bo 
found well kept, and, as a rule, he is not the person who will 
spend his evenings, and his earnings too, at the publichouse. 

As it is intended in these lines to offer a few practical sug- 
gestions on the subjact of bee-keeping to our brethren of small 
means, to whom of course profit will be at all times the main 
object in the undertaking, it will not be necessary nor advisable 
to enlarge upon the different systems of management advocated 
by many in the present dey, the necessary adjuncts of which 
are in most cases bee houses, patent or other expensive hives, 
numerous gless supers, and other paraphernalia, quite out of 
the reach of most cottagers, and only suited to those who can 
afford the expense. 

In the case of a cottager about to engage in bee-keeping, the 
first thing to be considered is tha sort of lodging he will provide 
for the bees ; and he can find nothing better for this purpose 
than the straw hive, but not one of the shape used in the time 
ofour great-grandmothers. It should be moderately large, with 
a flat top, and a hole in the centre of the top about 2 inches in 
diameter, which, when the bees are first hived, should be closed 
with a strong bung; besides the hive, a straw cap or super 
should be provided for future use. Instead of placing the hive 
on a fixed stool or stand, the most convenient method is to pro- 
ture boards about 18 inches equare, and let these rest on stal- 
ders about 6 feet long ; one of these would hold four hives. The 
advantage of this method is, the hives can be moved without 
disturbing the bees, for the purpose of weighing, &., as the 
hive is taken up, board and all. The entrance to the hive 
should be cut in the board—never in the hive, as is sometimes 
the case—about 3 inches wide, and three-eighths of an inch deep, 
gradually sloping up to the centre of the board; this plan allows 
the moisture to drain from the hive, while it affords a passage 
for the bees. The hives should be placed in the most sheltared 
position facing the south. For coverings, nothing is better than 
the old-fashioned straw cover or cope, which, while being usefal, 
presents at the same time a pleasing and rustic appearance. 

And now supposing everything to be ready for the new 
comers, the next business is to purchase a first swarm. from 
some neighbour willing to sell; one thrown off about the middle 
of May, containing about « gallon of bees, will be the best for 
the purpose; the price probably will be ruled by the season or 
locality, but a good swarm would not cost less than 10s. Aftez 


) 


establishing the bees in their new home, if the weather is at all 
favourable they will shift for themselves for a fortnight or three 
weeks, when they must be watched, and if they then cluster 
in front of the hive it is a sign that the hive is well filled, 
and should it be 2 good season, they will undoubtedly swarm ; 
but this should never under any circumstances be allowed, for 
if such happen to be the case the swarm will generally be worth- 
less, and the parent stock will be very much weakened. In 
order to prevent this state of things, as soon as the bees are 
seen to cluster in front of the hive in large numbers, the cap 
or super should be placed on the top of the hive; the bees will 
soon fill it. if, as was before mentioned, it happens to be a good 
season. When tho cap is full, which can be easily ascertained 
if a small pane of glass is inserted in the super, it should be at 
once removed. The better plan is to take the cap off in the 
middle of a warm day, replace the bung at once, and carry the 
cap some little distance, placing it on a board so that none of 
the bees can escape; in a few minutes the bees will become 
uneasy and restless if the queen do not happen to be with 
them; the cap may then be lifted, when the greater portion will 
escape and make for home, the rest may be dislodged with a 
feather, gonerally with impunity ; but if the queen happens to 
be in the cap with them, which is not often the case, the bees 
will rest contented, and display no anxiety to escapes under 
such circumstances the cap must be replaced until the following 
day, when, in most eases, there will be no difficulty in freeing 
it from the bees. A cap of honey thus obtained will generally 
weigh 8 or 10 !be., and as it is of the very best quality it com- 
mands a good price. In towns there is generally someone who 
will buy if at 2s. a-pound, thus rendering a cap of honey far 
more valuable than s Jate swarm of bees; and the whole of the 
bees being retained in the parent stock, it is left in a much 
better position to stand the winter than it would have been 
had it swarmed, 

The following year, supposing the stock to have stood the 
winter well, it will come out strong, and probably swarm early. 
This first swarm should be managed as has been directed in the 
case of its parent stock, but on no account should the old stock © 
be allowed to swarm a second time; to prevent this, two or 
three days after swarmiag it should be capped, which will 
generally answer the purpose. A gvod cap of honey will always 
pay better than a second swarm, end the old stock will always 
be left stronger ; buf if the stock is determined to throw off a 
second swarm, it should be hived in a cap, and placed on the 
top of the parent hive. The bees will then go to work at once, 
and ina good year the cap will soon be full, and, of course, 
when full removed at once, another cap being substituted for 
the full one, unless the season is far advanced. In some sea- 
sons several caps of the very best honey may bo taken from 
one stock by pursuing this method, and at the same |time the 
parent hive will be full of honey; but in moderate seasons 
both the old stocks and the first swarms should produce one 
good cap of honey. s 

In the case of stock hives, the cottager must first determine 
how many he will keep, and then, as a rule, leave the heaviest 
swarms of the previous year; they should never be less than 
20 lbs. in weight in the autumn to stand the winter well. If 
there are not sufficient swarms of the year, old stocks may be 
left. The writer knew a case where a stock of bees stood for 
fifteen years in a straw hive, swarmed every year, and only 
came to grief by the foot of the stool decaying in the ground, 
and the hive tumbling over. After the stock is selected, the sur- 
plus hives should be taken in the autumn. Notwithstanding 
all that has been said to the contrary, it will be better for the 
cottager to employ brimstone torches for this purpose; he 
might fumigate the bees, and by these means return those he 
wishes to take to his stock hives; but it is very doubtful 
whether this is an advantageous plan, although many, whose 
opinions are entitled to respect, advocate the method. 

It would be highly gratifying to seo the practice of bee- 
keeping more universally adopted by the poorer class of cot- 
tagers, and should these hasty lines tend to that end; the 
writer would be abundantly satisfied.—W. J., Shepherdswell. 


THE EGYPTIAN BEE, THE RASCAL. 


Ar the meeting of the American Bee-keepers’ Conyention, a 
paper was read by Mr. Mitchell, the substance of which was as 
follows :— 

The Egyptian bees were beautiful little fellows. He took a 
lo of hives to the prairies. He found that the Egyptian bees 
were cross fellows. hey went out of the hive like a flock‘of 


(st) 


quails. In his experimenting with them he used armour, but 
got stung fearfully nevertheless. The bees stung the trees, the 
weeds, the dogs, the children, and everything. Bat he wanted 
to give them their due; they made more honey than any other 
bees he ever knew, but when they made it they meant to keep 
it. He was not certain that his Egyptians were pure. Mr. 
Langstroth said he made a number of importations of the 
Egyptian bee. He had never had an Egyptian qneen which he 
Was sure was pure. His opinion was that the Italian bee was 
@ cross between the Ezyptian and the black bee. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


BREEDING Brauaas (F T.).—We strongly advise you not to breed from 
a single-combed Brahma if you have any idea of breeding for exhibition, 
or if you wish to have first-rate stock. Your birds are badly selected: 
you have a bad comb for the hen, and deficient feathering in the cock. 
You are breeding for mediocrity, and will attain nothing else. Breed 
from the cock rather than from the hen. 


PRESERVING Ecos In Lime (MM. V. 4.).—We always preserve our eggs 
in lime, not lime water. There is little difficulty in removing them if 
the layer is tapped at one end and the eggs are removed in course. The 
lime then chips away, but if itis attempted to dig them out from the 
“mosaic” they break.—B. 

BrauMa CHICKENS CRAMPED (EZ. M.).—You would have done far better 
if you had put your chickens out of doors at once, and kept the hen shut 
up. The flooring of a room is nearly sure to cramp chickens, and a hen 
at liberty is sure to lead them into trouble. Put the hen under a ripin 
a dry sunny place, give them strong beer to drink, and feed them on 
boiled egg and cooked meat chopped fine. If anything will save them 
this will. 

HampBurGH Cocn’s Neck HacktE FAuien (W. I. D.).—Rub the bare 
spots with compound su’phur ointment. If you have not that at hand 
anything emollient will do, provided it is free from salt or acid. Wecon- 
sider May a very good month to hatch all chickens. 

SPANISH CoCKEREL’s Face ULceRATED (F. T.).—We think the case is 
serious. Powdered alum is the best treatment. but if it stops the issne 
the face becomes thoroughly diseased with a knotty, hard, malignant 
tumonr, fills the whole face, and eventually the bird dies. If yours pre- 
sents these features we advise you to kill it. 

CUSTARD FOR CHICKENS (0. P. Q).—We never give custard, we give 
curd made in the following manner:—The milkis put on the fire, and 
when warm it is turned with alum into thick curd. This is putin acloth 
and twisted opposite ways, whereby all liquid is got rid of; and the curd 
being dry and hard will keep for days, and can also be broken off a piece 
at a time. 

Wertine Incusatinc Eccs (Hampton Wick)—For ten days before 
hatching we dip our hands in a pail of water, bring them out streaming, 
and wring them over the eggs two or three times. Two days before the 
eggs should hatch we take a pail two-thirds filled with warm water, and 
put allthe eggsin it. Those that contain live chickens soon feel the 
warmth, they swim end kick about. They remain seven or ten minutes, 
and it facilitates hatching. 

Orne Game Cock’s Heap (C. C.).—The best olive oil is the best ; the 
head should be rubbed with it, and the oil then wiped off. We cannot 
answer your other query. 

CocuiIn PULLET Not Broopy (4. M.).—Few complainas you do. Many 
are vexed at the number of broody hens, few are angry at the number of 
eggs. Allow her to go on laying, and buy a broody hen in the neighbour- 
hood; you will buy her for half-a-crown, when you have done with her 
she will make two shillings, and the Cochin in the meantime will have 
liid eggs worth double the outlay. 

TovULoUSE GEESE NOT SITTING (Justitia)—We have been large im- 
porters of Toulouse Geese for many vears. Wehavekept them by scores. 
We never knew one to sit, but we have known many disappointments 
saffered by those who would not believe they did not sit, and therefore 
t-usted them with eggs. The Goosein question is a marvel if she be 
pre bred, which we doubt. 

Game Cock Mopine (Scottie).—The Brown Red is completely out of 
health, and from your description can only be restored by prompt and 
strong measures. If he is at this time of year bad on his legs we think 
badly of him. You must give him beer to drink; give him raw meat and 
Taw yolk of egg out of a small shallow pot. Fora change you may give 
bread and milk. You must decide whether he is worth the trouble You 
will be exposed to all sorts of vagaries while you breed from crosses, but 
many of the best birds we have in the Game classes have been bred in 
this way. You must watch the produce, and if there is a faulty spot you 
must supplyit. It is just like the manufacture of the beverage some 
medical celebrities swear by in the present day—port-wine negus. The 
patient tastes it and declares it to be wrong; some wineis added, and the 
mixture is declared perfect. If water had been added it would have been 
a failure. 

n CHICHEN Foop (B. B.).—You will need no licens) for making and sell- 
ing it. 

Smxtres (Novice).—They never are exhibited as Bantams. They ought 
to be in the “‘ Any other variety” class. 

A Draxe-Duck.—In page 310, line 6 of this article, for “ vitality ” read 
virility. 

ESSERE: Eaes (Ilsley).—You will see what a very excellent authority 
says to-day about lime as a preserver. Try that mode, and try oiling 
thoroughly an equal number of eggs with boiled linseed oil, such as is 
used by painters. You will oblige us by informing us of the results. 
Eggs preserved in lime water acquire a vile flavour. 

PenritH SHow.—Mr. D. P. Gooding writes to us to ask if the prize 
money of that Show is to be paid? Perhaps the Secretary will answer 
the question. 

WHARFEDALE SHow.—We are informed that Mr. G. Todd, Bridge Street, 
Sunderland; was awarded the first prize for bis Black Red Game Bantam 
cock, 

Brauma Hen Dyinc SuppENLy (R. W.).—We think, as her crop was 
“ quite fall of corn.” that she was crop-bound, and died in consequence, 
probably from pirtial suffocation. We are very averse to whole corn as 
a night-cap for fowls; the last food of the day should be soft, such as 


30 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 4, 1871. 


ground oats, barleymeal, &c. A broody hen, as she was, usually care 
not much for food,and does not over-feed. Itis bad that she should, as 
squatting about is not favourable to digestion. Feed very lightly, and 
if there be any tendency to a hard crop, give warm water freely. 

Buivue JACOBINS.—Mr. Jones Percivall, 36, Choumert Road, Peckham, 
has some. 

PuTTING-oN Supers (Scybor).—A super should never be put on until a 
hive exhibits unmistakeable signs of being tenanted by a strong popu- 
lation. This period varies with the district, but in the south of England 
from the beginning to the end of May is the usual time. If you desire 
your hives to swarm, you must put on no supers, or, at any rate, only a 
very small one on each hive. These may or may not be finished by the 
time swarms are sent forth. The better way is to decide as to how 
many swarms you would like, and having done so, pick out two or more 
of the strongest and most forward stocks on which to place good-sized 
supers as soon as the bees show signs of being crowded. It is seldom of 
much use giving supers to hives after they have swarmed, unless the 
season should be a very good one. A stock which has partially filled a 
super and then sends off a swarm, may finish it later in the summer ; 
but our usual plan is, under such circumstances, to transfer the super, 
having dislodged the bees, to some other stock which has not swarmed, 
if we have any such then unsupplied with super accommodation. Th’s 
does not apply to very small supers, which may be allowed to remain on 
the original hive. = 


METEOROLOGIUAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN SquaRE, LonNDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Aititude 111 feet. 


Dare. | 9 A.M. In THE Day. 
Radiation 
~ 3 5 Shade Tem- z 5 
Hygrome Direc-| Temp. | perature. Tempers cS 
|tion (of|of (Soll) = ee ee 
] | Wand. | at 1 ft. | In On 
| Wet. | H | Max. Min. | sun. | grass 
deg. | | deg. | deg.| deg. | deg. | In. 
5).3 | NW. 63.2 | 40.7 |104.0 4 | 0.090 
|) 51.2 | NW. 66.0 | 44.1 |1160 0.030 
if 51.0 | S.W. 62.3 | 45.0 |100.8 6.299 
2 53.7 W. 64.0 | 49.6 |112.3 0.341 
8 45.0 N. 61.2 | 45.5 }115.4 0.071 
1.0 | 45.3 N. | | 5! 38.8 |108.2 = 
3.6 | 48.1] NE. | 5 36.1 | 99.4 | 346 | — 
Means | 29.891 | 53.5 | 49.2 | | 42.8 (106.6 | 41.1 | 0.881 
REMARES., 


26th.—Dnull with occasional showers, fine evening, rain between 9 and 
10 p.at. and during the night 

27th._Dull in early morning, but cleared before noon, then very fine, = 
few very large drops of rain between 10 and 11 a.m, thunder at 
3.8) p.a., heavy shower at 6 P.m., fine evening. 

28th.—Fine in early morning, sharp shower soon after 11 s.21., then alter- 
nate sunshine and showers, wet evening. [times heavy. 

29th.—Wet night and early morning, rain at intervals all day, and some- 

30th.—Dull in early morning, fine by 10 a.m. and till 510 pat, then heavy 
rain for short time, fine evening, planets very bright. 

May 1st.—Very fine all day, rather misty in the evening and during the 
night, and cold. {fine in the evening. 

2nd.—Misty in morning, but cleared off before noon, rather dull, but very 

A warm, genial week, with frequent slight rain—G. J. Syatons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Mar 3. 


A MODERATE supply and steady demand have been the rule for the past 
week, and a good attendance on the market days, both of home buyers 
and those from the provincial market, warrants us in looking forward to 
an increase of business. The varieties of hothouse produce now offered 
comprise Pines, Grapes, Strawberries, Peaches, Figs, and Melons. Large 
arrivals of Potatoes are to hand from Malta and Lisbon, and heavy stocks 
of old remain at the depéts. 


FRUIT. 

GEER Gt . 4. e d 

Apples.... 6 to3 0/| Malberries.. O0to0 0 
anvieeta 0 O O| Nectarines. 0 00 
Cherries... 0 O 0} Oranges. 0 100 
Chestnuts. 0 18 G)| Peaches..... b 0 40 0 
Currants.. 0 O O| Pears,kitchen -doz. 20 60 
Black 00 00 dessert.. doz. 00 00 
Figs ...... 09 0 2) 0O| Pine Apples. - Ib. 0 102 
Filberts OM Oe s 2a ONP PL 0 o0o0 
Cobs..... 20) 2 6 0 0o¢ 
Gooseberries . Wey Bh 0 oo 
Grapes, Hotho 8 0 18 0 Gea 
Lemons......- 60 10 o 16 0 
Melons..........---.each 6 0 12 0 0 a0 

VEGET. 


s.d. 8. @ s.d. 8s. a 

Artichokes ..-......d0z. 4 O0to6 0 bunch 0 4t00 6 
Asparagns .. 40 $80 ...doz. 1 0 20 
Beans, Kidney 10: 4°50 .. pottle 10 26 
Broad.... 0 0 O 0} Mustard&Cress..punnet 0 2 0 0 
Reet, Red.. cons 2 0 8 0} Onions .......... bushel 7 @ 10 0 
Broccoli ........ bundle 0 9 1 6 pickling. 5 00 00 
Brussels Sprouts..tsieve 0 0 O 0| Parsley...- Get) 
Cabbage.......... - 10 2 0} Parsnips 09 10 
Capsicums 0 0 O 0} Peas...... 80 100 
Carrots.... 0 4 0 8} Potatoes... 20 40 
i 80 80 Kidmey............d0. 8 0 40 

1 6 2 Oj Radishes..doz.bunches 0 6 1 0 

3 0 6 0} Rhubarb..........bundle 0 4 1 0 

06 #416 . 16 2320 

00 00 20 80 

20 00 06 09 

038 Oo 2 6) 940 

08 00 coun ~~ (OO Om 

0 8 oO O} Tnurnips..........bunch 0 G6 0 9 

8 0 6 0! VegetableMarrows..doz. 0 0 00 


—— 


i 


May 11, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 331 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day WeAterscararn Ba | 1 | 1, | Clock | Day 
y a = gi pera- | Rain in Sun Sun Moon Moon | Moon’s z 5 
Roan Wonk MAY 11—17, 1871. | ture near London. (33 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets. Age. peter | oe 
"| Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. |m. b.|m. b.|m. b.| am. Days. | m. 3. | 
1l | TH | Meeting of Royal Society, 8 80 p.m. 62.4 | 40.9 | 51.6 19 | 17 af4 | 86 af7 | 47 af1 | 27210 C Bi 50)| 161 
12 F 62.9 | 40.5 | 51.7 20 15S 749)°88) 2372 160 OF R45 eer 22 8 52 / 182 
13 Ss 68.5 | 83.8 | 51.1 20 14 4/39 7/40 2) after. 23 8 53 | 133 
14 | Sun | 5 Sunpay arrer EasTEr, 63.2 | 40.8 | 51.7 16) 42 4/41 7) 57 2] 8 2) (24 3 54) 134 
15 M 64.8 | 40.7 | 52.7 15 ll o4)42. 7/15 3/18 8 25 3 54 | 135 
16 Tu Meeting of Zoological Society, 9 p.m. 66.0 | 48.3 | 54.1 15 10 4) 4£ 7/|30 38/27 4 26 3 53 | 136 
17 Ww Royal Horticultural Society, Fruit, Floral, | 65.7 | 41.0 | 53.4 16 Sir4s F456 67/0 -48h 7 Sh 8b. 35) 27 3 52 | 187 
{ and General Meeting. | | 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 63.2°, and its night tem- 
a, 49.8°. The greatest heat was 86°, on the 15th, 1833; and the lowest cold 25°, on the 15th, 1850. The greatest fall of rain was 
14 inch. 


CULTURE OF PLEROMA, HOVEA, &c. 


EW species and varieties of stove and green- 
2 house plants have been introduced to our 
notice in abundance of late years, plants cul- 
tivated for their foliage rather predominating 
over those admired more especially for the 
beauty of their flowers. Among so many 
new and beautiful productions it is very 
evident that numbers of equally desirable 
subjects do not receive that amount of atten- 
tion which their merits deserve. Deep blue 
and purple flowers are not enough grown in our green- 
houses and hothouses. Azaleas are much and deservedly 
admired, Heaths equally so, and the different classes of 
Pelargoniums are in all gardens; but, unfortunately, none 
of the above have flowers approaching to blue. It is, 
therefore, very desirable that flowers possessing the above 
distinctive mark should not be lost sight of. Besides 
Pleroma elegans, there is Hovea Celsii and Leschenaultia 
biloba major; and the different species and varieties of 
Statice are not so much looked after as they deserve to be. 

Pleroma elegans when well grown is a greenhouse plant 
of noble appearance; its glossy leaves and large deep 
purple flowers render it one of the most effective plants 
in a collection. It is not difficult to cultivate if properly 
managed. It is undoubtedly a greenhouse plant, but the 
best flowers are obtained, and the plant is kept in better 
health, if it has the advantage of an intermediate house 
early in the year and until the first flowers show signs of 
opening, when it should be removed to the greenhouse. 

The plant is propagated by cuttings, which strike freely 
in a greenhouse temperature, if they are placed on a shelf 
in the greenhouse under a bell-glass. The way to manage 
them is this— take in July or August cuttings of the same 
season’s wood before it is quite ripe, and insert a number 
in a 5-inch pot in a compost of two parts turfy peat, one of 
loam, and one of silver sand. The cutting pot should be 
carefully drained, and three-fourths filled with the compost, 
filling up with pure sand. As soon as the cuttings are 
well rooted, pot them off singly in 3-inch pots, place them 
in a growing temperature of from 50° to 55°, and pinch 
them frequently, training the shoots so as to make com- 
pact specimens, while using no more sticks than will be 
necessary to preserve the shoots in a proper position. The 
best form for the plant, and that which shows the flowers 
t) the best advantage, is the bush, keeping the plant widest 
a‘ the top. This Pleroma is of free growth, and comes 
into flower in a young:state. 

After plants of this class are well established, they re- 
quire repotting about once a-year, and the directions 
here given will be applicable to all similar subjects. No 
one will ever grow healthy, handsome specimen plants 
who does not repot them with great care and in a proper 
manner. The same remark will apply to the training and 
management of the plants in a young state. A good com- 
post for the Pleroma is two parts turfy peat and one part 
turfy loam, about 3 inches of the top spit, where it can be 
obtained, tearing the turf in pieces with the hand. Enough 

No. 528.—Vou. XX., NEw, SERIES. 


silver sand should be mixed to keep it open. It is not 
advisable to give hardwooded plants a large shift; the pot 
should not be more than 14 or 2 inches wider than that in 
which the plant was growing, and the ball of earth should 
be quite moist before turning the plant out of the pot. 
After repotting, a close rather moist atmosphere is most 
suitable, but the plants should not be watered at the roots 
for a few days. There is nothing more injurious to plants 
of this class than watering them immediately after repot- 
ting; the new material is saturated with moisture before 
the young spongioles are formed to take it up, and before 
they are in an active state the soil becomes sodden ; as the 
roots penetrate into it they are killed, and if watering be 
still persisted in most likely the plant will be entirely 
destroyed. Instead of watering at the roots let the plants 
be dewed overhead with a fine syringe. The roots will 
soon take hold of the fresh soil, afterwards the plants may 
be watered. 

The best position for the plants is close to the glass in 
a low span-roofed structure, and to grow hardwooded plants 
well they should not be crowded with Geraniums and fast- 
growing plants of a similar character, especially when in a 
young state. When the plants attain a large size they are 
apt to lose their leaves near the bese, but this can be 
remedied by training the shoots downwards. The most 
suitable time to do so is in the autumn, as the plants make 
the best flowering shoots if they are allowed to ramble 
and grow out during the summer. 

A somewhat similar Melastomad to the preceding, of 
recent introduction, named Lasiandra macrantha, has 
larger flowers, and is of a more robust growth. It requires 
rather more heat. The flowers are of the same colour, and 
if they were produced in the same profusion it would he a 
very valuable plant, but I have seen it both growing ina 
stove and greenhouse temperature until the plants were 
3 feet high, and then they only produced one or two flowers 
at the ends of the principal shoots. Very different is the 
variety Lasiandra macrantha floribunda. This has been 
produced in small pots at some of the floral meetings at 
South Kensington, and proved itself to be a great acquisi- 
tion, plants not more than a foot high flowering profusely. 

Hovea Celsii is another plant which is seen even more 
rarely than the preceding, but when it is well managed, 
which, however, it seldom is, its pretty little deep blue flowers 
never fail to please. It is best propagated from seed, and 
should be grown in the same compost as that recommended 
for Pleroma. Small plants of it flower freely, but if it is 
intended to make fine specimen plants the flowers should 
be picked off. The shoots must also be bent down, in 
order that they may break freely. It will not make a 
specimen by pinching the points out of the shoots without 
proper training; at the same time this is a plant that 
should not be lost sight of, though I fear it is getting very 
uncommon. It requires much skill and patience to grow 
a specimen of it, but it is one of the plants which will 
repay the cultivator for all his care and attention. 

Leschenaultia biloba major, like the Hovea, is a native 
of New Holland, and requires greenhouse treatment all 
the year round. It is propagated by cuttings which strike 

No, 1180.—Vou. XLY., OLD SERIES. 


32 


ao 


readily in sand under a bell-glass in a shady part of the green- 
house.= The most suitable compost is turfy peat, with a small 
portion of loam, and a liberal proportion of silver sand. This 
plant is now seldom grown for exhibition purposes. Indeed I 
do not remember to have seen it at any of the London shows 
since Mr. John Fraser, of the L2a Bridge Road Nurseries, with- 
drew from exhibiting. There is no other free-flowering plant 
which I know that has flowers of the same beautiful blue 
colour. it is a very effective plant in a collection, and is, I 
think, indispensable where the size of the pots is limited, as 
if cannot be grown to the sizo of a Clerodendron or Erica 
Cavendishii. The frequent pinching of the young shoots and 
tying them out as they require it should be attended to. 

The shoots of this species have a close upright habit, and it 
does not make a specimen so readily as the more bushy branch- 
ing species, such as L. formosa. K-eping the plants close to 
the glass, and shifting into larger pots as they require it, must 
not be neglected. It is also peculiarly liable to the attacks of 
green fly, and may be seriously injured before the insects are 
discovered, as they huddle together, clinging to the stem, and 
are of the same colour as the young shoots. The best remedy 
is famigation with tobacco.—J. Duvenas. 


DORSET FRUIT AND ROSE PROSPECTS. 


TiuL we arrive at Mey the 14th we can hardly be sure of 
some of our fruits. At present the following is a faithfal 
report :--Apple trees are in abundant bloom, and not yet in- 
jared. Pears a sufficient crop, and not materially injared. 
Gooseberries, Currants (Red, White, and Black), and Rasp- 
berries most abundant. I never had finercrops. Strawberries 
abundantly trussed, and beginning to bloom. Plums good, 
and not yet injured. Cherries set, and wonderfully good. 
Peaches and Necterines a fair crop, and better than I expected 
after such a cold spring in such an exposed garden. Some of 
the trees are wholly cropped; others have dropped their blooms 
and fruit after setting. 
bear well this year, and vice versé. Moderate cropping is best : 
if @ crilical spring follows heavy cropping the tree will be 
more likely to fail in bearing than one that either bore no 
fruit, or was moderately cropped in the previous year. I give 
instances. 

Last year I overeropped the Marquis of Downshire Peach: 
this year it has dropped its blooms. Last year the Early Ascot 
—the Royal Ascot is more appropriate—bore only two fruits: 
this year it has an abundant crop. The trees are side by side. 


It is curious that in my stable-yard, where the Palmerston | 


Peaches (see ‘‘ Florist” for May) were grown, and which is a 
protected situation, all the trees, except a fresh-planted old tree 
of Grosse Mignonne, have dropped their blossoms and fruit, 
whilst in my two other exposed gardens the trees have set 
very respectably, some nobly. I am glad that I shall have 
a good crop of Early Ascot, Pine Apple Nectarine, Nectarine 
Peach, and Dr. Hogg. They are four of the best varieties. 

As regards flowers, I can only speak of one—namely, the 
Rose. The plants are in superb condition, in abundant bud, 
with beautifal foliage. I hope the winds will be civil. Some 
of the Roses show colour. From the 12th to the 20:h of June 
is the best time to seethemhere. The yellow wall Roses bloom 
about the middle of May. They also are in superb condition, 
and are laden with buds.—W. F. Rapcuyrre. 


PRIMULA CORTUSOIDES AMCNA. 


Ix common with many others I feel much obliged to Mr. 
Jones for his article on page 303, calling attention to the merits 
of Primula cortusoides amcena as an ornament to the conser- 
vatory, and the mode in which he cultivates it. One thing, 
however, he has omitted, and I have no doubt but he will 
remove the defect—he has not stated the character of the soil 
in which he grows it. This is of so much consequence that I 
am sure he will exeuse my inquiring further about it. The 
family of Primula differs so much in habit, character, and re- 
quirements, that no general rule can be laid down for its treat- 
ment, or rather all the kinds must not be treated alike. Our 
common wild Primroses grow in both shady and sunny places, 
but more commonly in the former, and are generally most 
plentiful on soil of a somewhat calcareous nature, while the 
Cowslip likes moisture, and often a stiff retentive soil. The 
more rare Primula farinosa is only found in wet peaty bogs, and 
Timagine P. amena to be akin to this, as I suppose that it is 
an improved form of P. cortusoides, and I would also ask ifits 


Trees that bore no fruit last year will | 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 11, 1871. 


proper name is not P. cortusoides amcena ; but if itis a variety 
of this species, it is a great improvement on the original, and 
when flowered in the manner Mr. Jones describes, it must be 
very attractive. I imagine, however, that there is some special 
feature in the soil that renders the culture of the plant £0 
successful. We occasionally meet with Cyclamens in a high 
state of cultivation, and not unfrequently with them in just the 
reverse condition ; it is the same with the Primula. 

In my own case I have not been at all successful with Primula 
cortusoides amcena, owing to the plants having been aceidentally 
neglected last summer, but I have seen sufficient to appreciate 
its merits. Ithink, from its appearance, that it must be hardy, 
as most plants are which die down to the ground entirely. I 
hope Mr. Jones will explain to us whether he uses peat in its 
cultivation or not. I believe I am right in saying that the 
general character of the soil in the neighbourhood of Didsbury, 
if the same as that which prevails in the district a few miles 
south of Manchester, is a black sandy soil resembling peat in 
some degree in being well adapted for the growth of Rhododen- 
drons and similar plants, and I therefore infer that it suits this 
Primula, for a partially peaty soil is favourable to the growth 


| of the Chinese Primula, P. cortusoides, and P. denticulata; the 


case is just the reverse with the wild Primrose, Cowslip, and 
garden Polyanthus. 

I may here remark that, having last year a number of spare 
plants of P. denticulata, I planted out a portion of them 
amongst shrubs, and I find many of them have survived the 
past winter, suffering more, I think, from worms and slugs 
than from frost; for although most of the plants are alive they 
do not look so well as I should like. I hope, however, during the 
ensuing season to try P. amcena, and with greater success than 
hitherto.—J. R. 


GREENHOUSE PLANTS.—No. 3. 


Ciiurpers SurrapLe For Lone Roors or Rarrers.—In small 
gardens, or where there are not especial structures for Grape- 
growing, I would have that best and most usefal of all climbers 
—the Grape Vine. It is, I know, contrary to the advice of all 
our best authorities that Vines and plants should be grown 
together, but good Grapes have been grown in greenhouses or 
plant houses fit for the dessert, if not the exhibition table. 1 
cannot see the consistency of the objection to fruit and flowers 
being grown in the same structures. Do we not grow some 
plants solely for the beauty of their berries ?—Sslanums, for 
instance, and others, which, however well grown and berried 
they may be, cannot compare to clusters of Grapes either for 
the gratification of the eye or the palate. Whether we look 
mpon them for ornament or for utility, either in the green- 
house or at the dessert, the palm must always be given to 
Grapes. Some have an idea that plants of any kind on the 
roof are very detrimental to plant-growth, and I have no doubt 
they are so when the shade is from a very close growth; but 
there need be nothing of this kind, for the most that we want 
is a slight shade from the powerful rays of the sun between the 
middle of April and the middle of September. The great evil 
is planting the Vines tco closely. I would not have them in 
any case nearer than 3} feet apart, and not more than 4 feet 
from each other. At this distance, no class of plants shade a 
greenhouse too much, not even Vines, which it seems strange 
should be looked upon as more injarious to plants than any 
other class of climbers. They have large foliage as compared 
to other climbers, but the leaves are not put forth until the 
best of hardwooded plants are in flower, and before they are 
fully developed that class of plants may with safety, and to their 
benefit under any circumstances, be removed to a cold pit; 
whilst those which remain, as Camellias and Azaleas, are the 
better of the shade afforded by the foliage of the Vines. Then 
in winter, when no shade is wanted, the Vines are leafless. So 
that, taken all in all, they are the best description of climbers 
for a greenhouse; but they may be injurious, like any other 
kind of climbers, when they are planted very closely together, 
so as to cause a deep gloom. 

Presuming that Vines are planted, in addition to the inside 
border, part will need to be outside. It is not necessary that 
this should exceed 10 or 12 feet wide, but less will do. The 
front wall of the greenhouse will of course require to be on 
pillars to allow of the roots passing to the outside; and unless 
the bottom is rock or gravel it ought to be concreted, an exca- 
vation being made so that the border may be about 3 feet 
6 inches deep, and the more it is above the surrounding ground 
level the more dry and warm it will be. There should be a 


May 11, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


333 


drain, with the bottom of the border inclining to it. The 
bottom of the border may be covered with about 2 inches of 
rough gravel, which must be rammed firm and afterwards run 
with lime, adding two parts of fine gravel to one of lime, and 
bringing the mixture to the consistency of thin mortar with 
water. The drain should be laid on the concrete in a channel, 
with all the border inclining to it. When the concrete has 
become hard place 9 inches of rubble for drainage, and then 
cover with a layer of sods grass side downwards. The border 
may be formed of eight parts of the top 3 or 4 inches of a 
pasture chopped into pieces of 3 or 4 inches square, one part 
of old lime rubbish, and one part free or grit stone in lumps 
from the size of an egg to that of a man’s clenched hand, one 
part fresh horse or sheep droppings, and presuming a part to 
be a cartload, add ten bushels of bruised bones, the same of 
charcoal, and five bushels of calcined oyster shells. The whole, 
having been well mixed, should be placed in the border both 
inside and outside 9 inches higher than the intended or ulti- 
mate level. It is not necessary to make more than a part of 
the border at a time, and I enly make the inside border the 
first year, considering it very important to get the roots well 
established in it. I find that the roots more readily take to 
the outside portion of the border. 

The best time for planting Viues in 2 greenhouse border is 
in spring, when the shoots are 14 to 2 inches long, and the 
roots should be planted inside. 

The kinds which succeed in a greenhouse with no heat except 
that necessary to exclude frost and dry up damp by promoting 
& circulation of air, are :— 

Black Grapes.—Black Champion, Black Hamburgh, Franken- 
thal (Victoria and Pope’s Hamburgh), Duc de Magenta, Gros 
Colman, and Trentham Black. The Black Muscat of Alex- 
andria (Muscat Hamburgh), sometimes does well worked on 
the Black Hamburgh, also Black Prince. In cold situations 
Espiran (Esperione), and Ingram’s Prolific Muscat ripen more 
surely than any of those named. 

White or Amber Grapes.—Foster’s White Seedling, Chasselas 
Vibert, Buckland Sweetwater, General della Marmora, and 
Chasselas Royal. The White Frontignan does fairly, also Cala- 
brian Raisin. In cold situations Royal Muscadine, White 
Romain, Early Saumur Frontignan, and Early Smyrna Fron- 
tignan will suit. 

The treatment of Vines in greenhouses not differing from 
that in vineries, and as a volume might be written on their 
treatment, I must refer to the ‘‘ Vine Manual’ for particulars 
of management. 

As regards climbers I should have a drain the length of the 
border, and 6 to 9 inches of rubble, covering with a layer of 
turf, and filling with compost 9 inches higher than the ulti- 
mate level. 

The compost will, of course, differ with the subjects, and the 
kind will be named for each, but I may say that loam and 
peat are the principal materials. They must be of the proper 
descriptions. The loam most suitable is that of a pasture 
where the soil is a good rich yellow or hazel loam, with a ten- 
dency to be sandy rather than clayey. This should be pared 
off not more than 2 inches thick, and chopped up in pieces 
about 2 inches square, preserving, however, the finer portions. 
The peat should be from an elevated moor, where there is a 
good growth of Heather or Ling; or, if the common Bracken 
(Pteris aquilina), is plentiful, or, indeed, present, and the peat 
is of a brown colour and full of particles of white sand, it is 
of the right description. Avoid peat from low ground, and 
which when wet and squeezed becomes a soapy mass, and 
gives off inky water. The Heath on it will not be healthy, nor 
will any good greenhouse plant thrive in it. It is well to 
remove the Heath, pull it off, and clear away any deposit of 
Moss or Lichen, and then pare-off the peat from 3 to 6 inches 
deep according to its character. It should be chopped up 
rather roughly, removing any stems or the rhizomes of Ferns. 
Both loam and peat should be used fresh. Leaf soil is another 
material that will be required, and it is important that it should 
be fully half decayed, and be freed of twigs or old decayed 
peaches of trees or other timber likely to cause fungus in the 
soil. 

Manure is for some climbers desirable, but for general pur- 
poses is not of great importance. For borders it should be 
fresh; horse or sheep droppings are what I recommend. 

Acacia oleifolia elegans.—This, though not a climber, is 
most excellent for covering roofs. It makes shoots several 
feet long in a season, has pale glaucous green leaves, and bright 
yellow flowers produced in great profusion, and in long suc- 


cession. My plant has rarely been out of flower during the 
past twelye months, but its general time of flowering is from 
September to April. It requires a compost of four parts loam, 
two parts peat, and one part each of silver sand, and sandstone 
in lamps between the sizes of a walnut and an egg. Being an 
evergreen the soil must be kept moist at all times, and should 
be driest in April, when it is presumed the plant will be 
pruned-in rather closely after it has grown to the extent re- 
quired ; and the shoots should be trained so as to cover the 
rafters, and then be allowed to take their downward course. 
Shoots 4, 5, or more feet long will hang from the rafters and 
be clustered with their golden balls of bloom. 

Bignonia jasminoides.—In habit this has the appearance of 
a gigantic Jasmine ; the flowers are purplish. It is very free 
in growth after it has become established, but requires patience 
at first. The flowers are produced on the short shoots from 
the well-ripened wood of the previous year, and the wood should 
therefore be well ripened by keeping the plant dry early in 
autumn, and thinning out the shoots so as to fully expose to light 
and air those left. Prune rather freely in February, leaving 
enough of last year’s shoots to furnish the short stubby shoots 
which usually afford flowers. Use a compost of equal parts of 
peat and loam, half a part of leaf soil, and a free admixture of 
sand. Water the plant freely when it is growing, but keep it 
rather dry in winter. Of this there are some fine varieties, as 
Alba magna, Floribunda, Rosea, and Splendida. 

Lapageria rosea.—This has both fine foliage and fine flowers, 
and is one of the most ornamental of greenhouse twiners. The 
flowers are large, bell-shaped, and of a bright deep rose, pro- 
duced in great profusion in summer, usually in July and later. 
There is a variety with white flowers (L. rosea alba). It does 
not make any great way at first. As most of the plants sent 
out are seedlings, they do not flower until the third or fourth 
season. Soil, peat chopped-up roughly. Good drainage must 
be provided, as when the Lapageria is growing and flowering a 
good-sized plant will need a three-gallon watering-potful of 
water daily. When not growing less water is needed, but even 
then, as compared to other plants, the watering should be liberal. 
The shoots should be trained-up straight, all those coming 
from the base being encouraged, and the shoots ought to be 
disposed rather thinly. The pruning should be confined to 
thinning-out the old and weak shoots. 

Mandevilla suaveolens in a pot is poor, but planted out in a 
greenhouse border it is magnificent. It is an evergreen, pro- 
ducing white and sweet-scented flowers in the early part of 
summer. The plant is a great favourite with many for its 
sweet-scented flowers. Soil, two parts light loam, and a part 
each of leaf soil and sandy peat, with a free admixture of 
sharp sand. Water the plant abundantly when growing and 
flowering, and syringe it freely when in a growing state. When 
at rest keep it rather dry, giving no water as long as the foliage 
remains fresh. Thin-out the shoots rather freely before growth 
begins, or about February, and do not keep it very closely tied- 
in at any stage, for nothing spoils the effect of this, and, in- 
deed, all climbers, so much as keeping them tied-up like a hay- 
band. The shoots never look so well as when hanging down 
from the rafters.—G. ABBEY. 


MYOSOTIS DISSITIFLORA. 


Ir I were asked to name the most lovely hardy spring-flower- 
ing plant, it certainly would be Myosotis dissitiflora. If ‘G. 9.” 
(see page 303) has the true variety, and will propagate it by 
cuttings during July and August, when it will strike very freely" 
under a hand-light in a shady spot, and will plant out the 
young plants in as dry a situation as possible, either there to 
stand the winter or to be transferred to the spring beds after 
bedding plants are off, I venture to say he will be delighted 
with it. With me it has been a perfect sheet of bloom since 
the first week of March, while Myosotis sylvatica is even now 
(May 1st) scarcely in full bloom. I remember a strong recom- 
mendation was given some time since in a leading garder 
periodical not to propagate this plant from cuttings, but from 
seed, in order, if I remember rightly, to produce hardier and 
more sturdy plants to stand the winter; but I can only say 
that plants from cuttings have withstood the last two severe 
winters almost without loss, certainly not two per cent. being. 
killed. ‘‘G.S.” says his flowers open of a pinkish colour, 
from which I infer he has the true variety; it does so, and’ 
some plants, even from cuttings, more so than others, but as‘ 
the flowers age they change to an azure blue; a bed in full! 
bloom does not present the slightest trace of pink. By the 


334 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ Moy 11, 1§71. 


way, I wonder the London market florists have not found it | 


out as a pot plant. Nice little plants lifted and pleced in 
48-pots about the middle of February, and set in a cold frame 
for a week or so, burst into charming masses of blue, close and 
compact, and I venture to predict would sell by thousands.— 
Wiis WINDEBANE, Southampton. ; 


OAKWOOD HOUSE, MAIDSTONE—MARECHAL 
NIEL ROSE. 

Tere are few places exhibiting more picturesque beauty 
and greater fertility than the vale of the Medway in the imme- 
diate neighbourhood of the town of Maidstone. The Medway, 
it is true, is deprived of some of its natural beauty by the 
necessities of navigation, a lock here and there interrupting 

- that meandering course which the poet and romance writer 
like to dwell upon, but these drawbacks are not many, and 
their presence is more than compensated for by the fact of 
their existence having secured an excellent path along the side 
of the river as far as it is navigable, which for small craft it is 
up to Tunbridge. Its course in the neighbourhood of the 
latter town, and for some distance below, is through a flat 
rather than an undulating country, and it is not till it ap- 
proaches the pleasant village of Wateringbury that its banks 
assume that irregular ascending tendency which, where aided 
by the great fertility of the soil and the diversity of cultivation, 
produces a rich landscape. The acreage under Hops and fruit 
in many parishes exceeds that of corn. Peeping out here and 
there over the tops of trees may be seen the spires of churches, 
and often nestling around them a picturesque village of dwell- 
ings of the seventeenth as well as those of the nineteenth cen- 
tury, while surrounding all are frequently found umbrageous 
fruit trees which at the proper season yield basketful after 
basketfal of their tempting treasures—not here tempting to be 
sure, for the abundance is such that but few charges are made 
at the magistrates’ office for fruit-stealing, and in these cases 
the offenders are mostly vagrants. The sylvan beauty is no- 
where marred by the smoke of manufactories, or at all events 
but little harm is done in that way. In such a district, as may 
be expected, land is dear, eligible sites for villas commanding 
high prices. The eye of the traveller is now and then attracted 
by the appearance of a mansion whose importance and sur- 
roundings imply that it has been the residence of some of the 
nobility or gentry of a bygone age and is still occupied as such, 
while others, equally important and well-situated, have but a 
modern history; such an one is the mansion which I will 
now proceed to notice. 

Oakwood House, the residence of L. D. Wigan, Esq., a newly- 
erected and commodious mansion, is situated less than a mile 
from Maidstone, and about half that distance from the river 
Medway, which at this point flows from south to north. The 
residence being on the left bank has its principal front to the 
east, the dressed grounds, which are very extensive, being 
mostly in that direction. The mansion is one of those enriched 
modern erections, constructed of red brick and Bath stone, in 

- which internal comfort and outward display are happily united. 
As a residence it is beautiful, while the site is all that could be 
desired. Th:2 highly cultivated district on the opposite bank of 
the Medway, including the fruit-famed districts of the two Far- 
leighs (East and West), Tovil, Loose, and the heights beyond, 
-are all seen, while no more of the town of Maidstone is visible 
than is sufficient to show that a townis there; and beyond that, 
over the undulating park and grounds of the Earl of Romney, 
is seen in the distance the chalk cliff of that ridge of hills com- 
monly called the backbone of Kent. 

Returning to my starting point, I may remark that Oakwood 
House and all its surroundings are of modern date, the trees 
which give it a name alone excepted. Its situation is sufti- 
ciently elevated without being bleak, and, being well backed by 
trees, it has a snug appearance. The garden front, as already 
stated, faces the east, or rather south-east, the carriage entrance 
being to the north, while a spacious front, equalling the south- 
ern one in length and importance, faces the west or south-west, 
terminating with that indispensable appendage to a mansion of 
importance, a billiard-room. A rather imposing verandah or 
corridor, partly glazed, runs along the principal garden front, 
while a conservatory and exotic fernery are united to it at the 
south-east corner. A broad walk, with a corresponding ample 
width of turf, forms a terrace on which the house stands, while 
sloping banks unite it with the ground below, to which steps 
give access at suitable places, the descent at the principal front 


being, perhaps, as much as 12 or 15 feet. A series of flower 
beds, forming what is usually called the Florentine chain, run 
along the belt of turf on the upper terrace, while below, beds of 
greater dimensions are in the course of formation, the whole 
of the alterations contemplated there not being yet completed ; 
indeed, much of the space now being laid out in pleasure 
ground was a few years ago a quarry, and advantage is being 
taken of the inequalities thus formed to give that undulating 
character so much admired by those who assume to be jadges. 
Some precipitous clifis will remain only partially clothed with 
foliage, while other eminences will be crowned in that way, 
dells and other inequalities being treated in like manner. The 
space at command is ample for all purposes, and includes a 
large, perfectly level area at the base of the terrace slope, and 
what shrubs and trees had been planted were succeeding well, 
the large Oaks at the back and western side of the mansion 
affording sufficient shelter to the whole. 

The kitchen garden is to the west of the mansion, a walk 
leading from one to the other through what will be masses 
of shrubbery. Some Rhododendrons were thriving well in the 
ordinary soil of the place, assisted only with a little leaf mould 
obtained from the adjoining wood. Mr. Piggott, the able gar- 
dener, is of opinion that leaf mould is much deteriorated by 
confinement and heating when it is formed in the usual way. 
Some extensive orchards, of many years’ standing, adjoin the 
ground in this direction. The Plum and Cherry trees were 
masses of bloom, and the Apple trees equally promising, 
though not fully out at the time of my visit. 

In the conservatory adjoining the mansion attention is first 
arrested by two noble specimens of Indian Azaleas of great 
size, standing like sentinels at the doorway; further in was a 
specimen Acacia grandis, 12 feet or more high, and about half 
that in diameter, a mass of bloom. Several Coleuses had also 
been brought forward in a warm place, and graced the conser- 
vatory ; amongst them the variety named Her Majesty was by 
no means the least ornamental. A vigorous-growing Begonia, 
named, I believe, B. ricinifolia, was also in full flower, while 
some well-flowered Salvias formed the background, with speci- 
mens of a useful Pelargonium for forcing called Crimson King. 
It is one of the greenhouse kinds. The most meritorious pro- 
ductions in the house were some excellent plants of Roses in 
bloom, not with tiny imitations of bloom, but large heads; the 
varieties being mostly well-known Hybrid Perpetuals, as Victor 
Verdier, Senateur Vaisse, Alexandrine Bachmeteff, and Madame 
Victor Verdier, while the Teas were represented by Madame 
Faleot, Gloire de Dijon, and a respectable plant of Maréchal 
Niel, having several blooms upon it. But the principal attrac- 
tion of the house at the time of my visit was a fine plant of 
this variety in full bloom occupying the rafters of a part of the 
roof, and it was well worth a considerable journey to see. I 
believe the house was only erected two yearsago. This Muéchal 
Niel Rose was budded in 1868 on a Briar stock, and planted 
out in a border at the back wall scarcely more than a foot wide, 
but of considerable depth. How the plant flowered last year 
I forgot to inquire, but it sent up seven branches or shoots, 
which were all trained in different directions, the longest 
shoot being 15 feet long, and the shortest 11 feet. Every shoot 
was laid in toits tip. The united growth of the seven shoots 
was 85 feet, and at the time of my visit, the third week in 
April, there were seventy-eight full-blown Roses upon these 
shoots, and 148 in various stages of the bud. The expanded 
flowers were as large and full as could possibly be desired, and 
being all pendant, had the best possible effect, showing that 
such a position is the best this Rose could have; for in point of 
colour, form, size, and fulness of centre, I have never seen any 
specimen at the Rose shows nearly so good as those at Oakwood. 
I believe the only use made of the knife in its management 
has been to cut off the flowers, and this year there promises to 
be an abundance. Mr. Piggott, however, thinks it will not 
figure as a pot plant, the weakness of the flower-stems always 
leading to their hanging head downwards, as is the case with 
many other Tea Roses, including some of the most popular 
kinds; but when Maréchal Niel is grown as a climber this 
tendency becomes a recommendation, and in the case now 
described it would be impossible to suggest an improvement. 
The long shoots were studded at regular intervals with clusters 
of buds, haying generally one full-blown Rose of the richest 
gold colour, while the foliage was also all that could be wished 
for. 

As the fine situation and fertile soil favour the growth 
of most plants, in a few years Oakwood House will be one of 
the prettiest residences in the neighbourhood; for althorgh 


— 


May 11, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 3 


305 


there is not that extensive area of grass land which is to be 
seen surrounding many mansions, there is sufficient in the 
principal direction to carry the eye on to other interesting ob- 
jects, and privacy is as much secured as in the most rural dis- 
trict. The whole estate, or rather the home farm, including 
the pleasure ground, &¢., may be all classed as dressed ground, 
a considerable extent being in Hops and a large area in orchard, 
and this within an easy walk of the principal residence. The 
soil has the reputation of producing some of the best Hops in 
the kingdom. The rather crooked ungainly poles of the district 
were being replaced by fine straight ones from Norway, which 
also had their lower ends charged with creosote in the manner 
lately described in the papers upon Hop cultivation 3 and other 
things were being done, showing that Mr. Wigan was entering 
enthusiastically into farming and gardening affairs, and he 
seemed to be well seconded by his gardener, Mr. Piggott, who 
had the superintendence of the whole.—J. Rozson. 


VIOLA LUTEA GRANDIFLORA AND VIOLA 
CORNUTA PERFECTION AS BEDDERS. 


I wisy to call the attention of those interested in bedding 
plants to the merits of this Viola, which I believe will super- 
sede the Calceolaria as a yellow bedder. I briefly noticed the 
plant at page 200, vol. xix., but I find I did not do justice to 
it then. 

The treatment is very simple. In November I put in as 
many cuttings as I could obtain in a cold frame, with the Cal- 
ceolarias inserted in October, and not one of the Viola failed, 
whilst out of nine hundred Calceolaria cuttings I only saved 
thirty. This is the first time I ever failed with Calceolarias, 
and I cannot account for the loss, as the treatment was pre- 
cisely the same as usual. I now intend discarding the Calceo- 
laria as a bedder, for, let the plants be attended to as you will, 
there is always a blank in the blooming, besides the vexation of 
their going off in the midst of the season, and a heavy shower 
of rain takes the polish off Calceolarias almost sooner than 
anything I can call to mind. Upon Viola lutea grandiflora, on 
the contrary, the rain has no effect. 

I potted the old plants of Viola in November, placing them 
in a cold frame, and not one died, the protection being a single 
sat thrown over the frame. Of course the pots during the 
severe frost were one mass of ice. I therefore believe that if 
= had had the courage to have left a plant out in the open air 
it would have lived, as I think frost has more effect on a plant 
in a pot than on one planted in the ground. With me it has 
been in flower six weeks—for the last three weeks without pro- 
tection—and it is a perfect blaze of bloom, and will remain so 
till November is far advanced. Last year, up to the end of 
November, frost did not injure the flowers in the least, and 
when I lifted the old plants they were showing well for bloom. 

ft is almost impossible to take off cuttings without flowers 
or flower buds. I believe it will be best propagated in the 
autumn, as I have struck a quantity of cuttings this spring, 
and though they are now in flower they are but small, but in 
all probability they will improve. Tho flower is of a very 
striking yellow; the plant of a good habit, easily propagated, 
and, planted 9 inches apart in the flower garden, it will soon 
fillup As I before said, the rain damages this Viola the least 
of anything, the flowers not holding the water. Igo over the 
plants and pick the old flowers out twice a-week; doing so 
‘keeps the plants from wasting their strength in perfecting the 
seed, and sets off the flowers to the best advantage. 

As soon as the cuttings are struck I plant them out in a cold 
Srame, gradually hardening them off. I should add that I find 
autumn-struck cuttings flower earlier than old plants, owing, 
mo doubt, to the shoots employed for cuttings being prepared 
to bloom. The soil which I employ is a mixture of equal parts 
of loam and leaf mould, with a little sand. The plant may 
also be propagated by dividing the roots. When potting the 
old plants in November I divide them. I was anxious to secure 
a stock, otherwise I should have left plants out of doors to test 
their hardiness. The flowers will be found very useful for 
cutting, for they rise from 3 to 6 inches on the stem, last long, 
and when mixed with other cut flowers are very effective. I 
shall be glad to know how this plant has done with others. I 
have recommended it to all who I know take an interest in 
hardy bedding plants, and all who saw it at once resolved to 
grow it. 

YiIoLA CORNUTA PERFECTION.—This was very good with me 
flast season, but is not so readily propagated as the foregoing ; 


when I say not so readily I mean the same numbor of cuttings 
cannot be obtained from it. I wintered a few along with the 
Calceolarias, but being afraid I kept the stock in pans, just pro- 
tecting them from frost. This is not an early bloomer, but 
when it begins to flower it continues, and the colour is rich. I 
have great hopes of this. Lobelia speciosa is not to be thrown 
away, but, when everything is said in its fayour, towards the 
end of the season it is blank. Viola cornuta Perfection was 
good when I took it up at the end of October.—S. Castuz, 
Gardener to J. A. Bannerman, Esq., Prestwich. 


NEW GRAPES. 


_l wave just (May Ist) been through the admirably-managed 
kitchen garden of Sherborne Castle, and had the opportunity 
of ascertaining the merits of two of the new Grapes, about 
which there have been conflicting opinions. One house was 
filled with Mrs. Pince, and Mr. Pragnell, the gardener, was loud 
in its praises as a late-keeping, well-flavoured variety. He 
stated that he had had it in use until within a fortnight ago. 
The Vines were breaking strongly, and showing evidence of 
abundance of fruit. The foliage is certainly very peculiar, not 
ie) handsome as that of the Hamburgh and other well-known 
varieties. Golden Champion he was also loudly in favour of, 
and, as I saw it, it promised well, but he says it must be 
grafted on the Black Hamburgh; on its own roots he does not 
think so much of it, but thus grafted he esteems it as a most 
valuable Grape.—D., Deal. 


FORM AND COLOUR.—No. 2. 


Form in plants of more lowly growth assumes a subtle and 
more intricate character, equally powerful, and from its greater 
variety more generally admired. But here, as in every other 
instance, form does not stand alone; colour, from which it is 
always inseparable in plant life, assumes an importance only 
second to that of formitself. Take, for example, a Fern frond, in 
the structure of which the greatest intricacy and most exquisite 
grace are developed ; deprive it of its colour, and it becomes of 
comparative insignificance, because the two things are so en- 
tirely inseparable. Orchids, fine-foliaged plants, or any choice 
stove or greenhouse plants, are just so many examples of the 
power of form and colour combined, and it is to those species 
and their varieties in which these are best united to such other 
excellencies as a robust, free, habit of growth ; earliness, lateness, 
or continuity of flowering, that preference is justly given. 

In picking out a collection of plants care should be taken to 
choose kinds which, as in a Gloxinia, best combine elegance in 
the form and disposal of the foliage and beauty of the flowers, 
or which, as among Fachsias, may by high culture and skilful 
training be made to assume most symmetrical proportions, 
imparting an air of perfect grace to ihe plants, and displaying 
the flowers to the best advantage. 

Even in training a plant, a keen appreciation of the power of 
form is highly important. A well-grown, well-trained Fuchsia 
is greatly superior to one of a similar kind which has been 
allowed to follow its natural bent, and has so become a mere 
squat bush. The study of form, as naturally developed in the 
growth of plants, is very useful when rightly followed. To be 
successful, some tax must be made upon one’s judgment in 
order rightly to read the page of Nature’s book opened wide 
before us. To illustrate this I cannot do better than again 
revert to the Fuchsia, taken for an example because itis so well 
known, and its culture so generally understood. To look ata 
plant of it growing freely, but left untrained, we see little else 
than a dwarf spreading bush with pendant flowers, anything 
but suggestive of the appearance of a well-grown plant. Nature 
in this instance offers to us a plant yielding a profusion of 
pretty pendant flowers, borne on long flexible shoots, freely 
produced from the parent stool, yet conveying but a faint im- 
pression of the exquisite symmetry to which it may be brought 
by high culture and skilful training. Whoever first thought of 
training this plant to the form of a cone, certainly read Nature’s 
lesson aright; but this is not always the case. Take, for ex- 
ample, the Rose. To see its wild luxuriant growth one would 
hardly suppose it to be possible such a plant should ever be 
introduced into gardens in the form of a stiff, unsightly 
standard ; but what is. more surprising is that this ugly 
model should be almost universally copied, so that hardly a 
garden is to be seen without some of these monstrosities. Why 
this is so I can hardly understand; it certainly points to a 


336 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ May 11, 1871. 


want of originality on the part of us gardeners, and is an in- 
stance of fashion or slavish imitation which cannot be too soon 
forgotten. Surely we have sufficient courage and manliness 
to own ourselves to be wrong! I for one will own I have 
budded and planted hundreds of standard Roses, but of my 
own will I will never plant another, for I am fully convinced 
that Roses require no assistance from stocks of any kind, but 
grow and flower as freely and as well on their own roots as they 
do when budded or grafted upon Briar or Manetti stocks. The 
man to whom the use of stocks is really beneficial is the nur- 
seryman, simply because their use enables him to increase his 
stock of sorts, new and old, with the greatest expedition and 
economy, and so to all Roses not trained to walls I would im- 
part the form of a cone or pyramid, knowing from actual ex- 
perience how easily and quickly this can be done. No stiff- 
ness, no formality is visible in such plants; their tapering 
forms, laden with fine flowers from the soil in which they grow, 
upwards to the tops of the plants, offer to the eye rich masses 
of floral loveliness, to which the beautiful foliage, Nature’s foil, 
forms a fitting background. 

There are, of course, many other forms which may be advan- 
tageously imparted to plants, according to the respective habits 
of their growth, which ought always to be carefully studied. 
Training should really be simply the bringing back of a plant 
from the unkempt wildness cf Nature, so that the growth may 
be regulated to graceful order. It can serve no good purpose, 
and is opposed to good taste, to torture any plant into a gro- 
tesque or unnatural shape; rather should we strive to produce 
objects combining-simplicity of form with elegance of appear- 
ance, and to do this so skilfully as to conceal all evidence of 
the means by which our handiwork has been performed, for 
every stake, string, or wire visible when the plant is in its full 
beauty is a blemish. 5 

Turning now to tke study of form in its relation to the 
design cf a flower garden or shrubbery, a knowledge of geo- 
metry and the effect of a combination of geometrical forms is 
important. Masses of flowers tastefully arranged impress the 
mind favourably, whatever be the form of the beds in which 
they are growing; but I must qualify this with another truth 
equally weighty, and that is, when the beds of a flower garden 
have simple and graceful outlines corresponding well with each 
other, the plants growing in the beds will certainly be more 
admired than others seen in a very complicated design. A 
severely geometrical pattern composed of angular forms, each 
fitting to the other with the greatest nicety, must always pos- 
sess a certain air of formality, no matter how skilfully the 
colours may be arranged. It must be granted that such 2 
design when placed near a noble mansion, and having such 
accessories as beautiful statuary, balustrading, and vases, pos- 
sesses much that is stately and dignified, yet these important 
features rarely, if ever, atone for er cause one long to forget 
the harsh uncompromising outlines of the beds, which are only 
to be viewed favourably as forming part of the grand whole; 
for if we venture to dissect such a garden, and seek for amuse- 
ment in the study of individual bedz, our first impression, 
probably by uo means an unfavourable one, would most likely 
suffer, and be very much weakened—so true is it that to be 
really and continuously enjoyable a flower garden must possess 
other charms than those visible at the first glance. It is, 
doubtless, very gratifying to hear the exclamation, ‘‘ How very 
lovely !” called forth by the first sight of the entire garden, 
but itis much more so if a closer inspection of the beds sus- 
tains the interest of the visitor, making a stroll from bed to 
bed a thing to be eared for and thoroughly enjoyed. One 
reason for this is because geometrical precision does not al- 
ways imply beauty. In a kitchen garden we look for and ad- 
mire this precision because we are impressed with a sense of 
the importance of economising all available space; and as 
angular forms fit best to each other, these are, of course, the 
right ones to impart to the quarters and borders. Bat in the 
flower garden, where Inxurious enjoyment, amusement, and 
repose are sought after, and the stern realities of life are for 
atime softened or forgotten, graceful forms and soft flowing 
lines should prevail. 

A circle, of all geometrical figures the simplest and most ele- 
gant, is undoubtedly the best form for a flower bed. It can be 
made of any size so as to offer a plain circular mass of colour, or 
may contain within itself a variety of designs, either simple in 
form or as complicated as may appear best to the taste or fancy 
of the designer. Therefore, a design composed of circles and 
curved ‘‘lines of grace and beauty” is quite certain to arrest 
the attention and to impress the mind fayourably. In order 


that this impression may not be effaced by a closer inspection, 
there must be no clashing, either in the forms of the beds or 
the colours of the flowers. A garden having all its beds of an 
angular form is more pleasing to look upon than one display- 
ing a confused assembly of curves and angles. Parity is one 
of the first principles of design, and such an effect can only be 
produced in this instance by associating forms of a similar 
character, or which show by their outlines that they spring 
from a common parent.—Epwarp LuckHurst. 


FOLIAGE OF THE EPIMEDIUMS. 


I must call your attention to the beautiful foliage of the 
Epimediums, of which I send a few specimens. They are 
principally cross-bred varieties of my own raising, but some of 
the species are equally attractive. 

In regard to Dielytra cucullaria (page 301), I can assure you 
that it is growing most vigorously. The flowers are concealed 
by the foliage, which is a defect. Mrs. R. agrees with you 
about its beauty, so I give in. [Quite right so to do.—Eps. ] 
—A. R. 

[The Epimediums do indeed deserve more notice than they 
usually receive. The varieties you have raised—whether their 
leaves are self-coloured of the peculiar Epimedinm light tender 
green, or mottled or margined with bronze—are all very attrac- 
tive, for not only have they the beauty of colour, but of form, 
pointed heart-shaped, and suspended on such graceful slender 
stalks. The first that we remember, Epimedium diphyllum, 
or Twin-leaved, the exceptionally coloured ones, violaceum and 
pinnatum, are all graceful and charming in many ways.—Ebs. | 


GARDENERS’ CARES. 


‘So you are going to be a gardener, cousin George, are 
you? Think well aboutit before you begin. There is no turn- 
ing back when you have started on that journey. I know what 
it is to be a gardener, having had several years’ experience. BE 
sometimes wish I had chosen any other employment, but it is 
too late now, I must go on to the end. Don’t be alarmed, f 
am only telling you what you will have to do and put up with, 
and if you feel that you cannot, now is your time to change your 
mind. Gardening is all very well for those who are in earnest, 
for those who can put their heart into their work; who can 
bear success with moderation, and failure, which is far more 
likely to be the result, with patience. Never man yet strode te 
the heights without many a failure. You will have to place 
much of your time, and strength, and skill at your employer’s 
service, to work hard, to be up early and late, yet often unable 
to chronicle to-day what you did yesterday, and very often the 
morrow is only a repetition. Much of a gardener’s work is 
like 2 woman’s in a house—continual coming and going and 
doing, very tiring, and little to see at the end.” ; 

“Tt must be less dull than making pins and nails all the 
days of your life, cousin Mark. It must be healthier out in 
the sunshine and fresh air, among flowers, and trees, and sweet 
grass, than confined in a heated factory with the clang and 
whirl of noisy machinery. I cannot imagine any life pleasanter 
than a gardener’s, and I hope to try it.” 

‘“‘ But the sun does not always shine, George, and even when 
it does, its heat is sometimes a burden; and the trees, splendid 
enough in their way, cause endless labour on a lawn with their 
never-ceasing leaf-droppings, and the sweet grass requires more 
painstaking than a lady’s drawing-room carpet, and there is 
harder and coarser work than tending flowers. And the fresh 
air may be healthy, but not very agreeable when it comes over 
miles of frozen moors, with the mercury dreadfully inclined to 
fall below zero. I can tell you, also, it is not very comfortable 
working out all day with an east wind drying up your skin, or 
small rain soaking through your jacket until you can think of 
nothing but rheumatism. Often it cannot be otherwise ; your 
work carries you from place to piace, in-doors and out, so that 
you are exposed to all degrees of heat and cold—often have to 
pass suddenly from one to the other.” ; 

“T have often heard say, Mark, that it is the happiest and 
safest of all apprenticeships, the spring time of life spent 
among spring flowers, no lungs stifled with foul air, no long 
toiling hours by gaslight.” x 

‘‘ Tt sounds wellin words, George, but there is much to learn 
about gardening, and, unless you have a natural liking for it, 
it will take you long to learn. You will have to dig.” 


May 11, 1871. ] 


“Oh! I know how to do that. I have dug up our garden 
twice every year since I was a little boy.” 

‘Mach as a child digs up the sand on the shores at Scar- 
borough, playing with the spade in one hand, never thinking 
that the other need not be idle and that the foot might bring 
its force. You would find it very different work if you had an 
acre of a hundred-years-old sheep pasture to make ready for 
Potatoes, and there is no escaping this digging portion. It is 
what all boys are set to at the beginning. I know it was mine, 
and not very easy. I had to doit over three times with this 
comment— Well done is once done.’ And when the digging is 
satisfactorily done there remain a world of things you must 
try to understand thoroughly. There are many garden labourers 
but few real gardeners—the fact is, so many men bring hands 
but no brains to their work. You will have to learn the science 
of tree and shrub planting—the when, and how, and where, so 
that you do not remove trees in summer, or thrust their roots 
into a hard hele scooped out of the heavy soil with a spade, 
unmindfal how they resume their hold of life in the lower 
world; and you must know when itis best to prune, and re- 
member the best for one plant is not the best for all, so that 
your subjects lose not a year’s growth or die by cruel bleed- 
ing. “You will have to roll, and mow, and sweep, and keep a 
dark green velvety lawa equal if not superior to your neigh- 
bour’s. You will have to rake, and weed, and keep tidy ; to sow 
seeds, and plant out plants, and afford almost invisible supports 
to weakly stems. You must be able to name seeds by sight, 
know good from bad, and be capable of fingering the very finest 
dust without its slipping from you unaware to come up in thick 
patches with wide unoccupied spaces. You will have to learn 
all the diversities of plant culture from a Heath to an Orchid, 
know their growing and rest times and blooming periods, and be 
ver open-eyed to their peculiar enemies; if you forget these 
they will multiply with fearful rapidity. Have you heard 
‘enough, George ?” 

; ‘Nay, go on to the end, Mark; you cannot have much more 
0 gay.”’ 

“You will have to gather fruit for the kitchen; take care in 
your haste (for kitchen authorities never ask for a thing until 
they just want it), that you do not destroy next year’s blossoms, 
‘You will have to pull fruit for the parlour; you must do it if 
possible without touching ; you must not bruise it nor rob it of 
a particle of its bloom, and there is not a fruit grown, from a 
Peach to an Apple, over which nature does not spread a delicate 
touch-me-not hue. You will have to learn how to plan and lay 
out a garden with a proper regard to the fitness of its surrounda- 
ings; so to harmonise colours that the gay picture you paint 
‘on the summer lawn shall offend neither the ancient law of 
‘order, nor the changing rule of fashion, nor the true artist’s 
taste. Woe to your good nameif you are colonr-blind. Nor 
have you done with flowers yet. You will have to enter into 
closer and more vexatious relations with them. You will have 
to arrange flowers for drawing-room and dinner-table decora- 
tion. Don’t send your best and fairest for the latter purpose, 
‘to mingle their sweet perfumes with the smell of fish and soup, 
and lose their charms too rapidly in the heated atmosphere 
which floats over a well-prepared dining table. You will have 
to put together flowers for button-holes, for ball and brides’ 
bouquets, to manipulate the bits of living mosaic that they shail 
form one compl -:te whole, fres from vulgar gorgeousness and 
tame insipidity. All this you will have to learn, much as a 
lawyer’s clerk, without being taught, and with but little time 
for book lore; for if you do but half your duty you will fall 
asleep on winter evenings before you have turned over many 
pages. The fresh air you spoke of gives an appetits to growing 
lads, which when appeased induces slumber—slumber so re- 
freshing that now, as in the old time, a king might envy.” 

“Well, there is variety in your long list, cousin Mark; no 
fear of ennui.” 

“ But I have not done yet; the worst is to come. You will 
have to turn out at all hours, Sundays not excepted, and in all 
weathers, to learn the economy of stove fires—how to obtain 
the most heat out of the least fuel. You must never make a 
mistake in this quarter, never throw more coal or cinders on 
your fire than will be needed, or leave your dampers out when 
they would be better in, or the valve of your ashpit door open 
with a fire burning brightly. At the sams time you must not 
jet your fire go too low lest a dead calm settle cn the water in 
your boiler, and this calm be communicated to the should-be 
eyver-circulating liquid in your pipes.” 

“Really, Mark, an uneducated boy could do that. Why 
should a gardener be troubled 2” 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


337 


‘« When you rise to be head man, George, if you ever do, it 
will benefit you little to have fifty stokers under you if you do 
not fully comprehend the principle of heating glass houses; 
nine times out of ten this is only gained by practice. I cannot 
think why so many should fear to soil their hands with the 
coal and smoke of an island home, half the wealth of which is 
earned by its liberal consumption, as though when the work 
was done they would not wash white again.” 

‘Anything more, Mark ?” 

‘Do you care to know, George, or have the fires burned out 
your enthusiasm? You will be expected to interpret aright the 
winds, and stars, and sky; to follow all the fickle changes of 
an ever-changing climate; never to let fire heat and sun heat 
meet in your plant houses ; never to let your thermometer rise 
above or fall below a certain mark—this not only on working 
days in working hours, but day and night, feast day and fast 
day, from the beginning of the year to its close. You willsoon 
know the winter stars right well, and be very familiar with the 
crunch of the crisp snow under your feet.” 

‘* Have you done 2” 

“No. You will have more than yourself to consider and to 
please. I have heard young girls say they would not settle in 
the best place in the world if there was more than one mistress, 
but a gardener seldom has the good luck to have but one master. 
To say nothing of master’s wife, there is master’s cook, a 
terrible power in a place, an authority not to be slighted nor 
disregarded. And then, George, there is no use in complaining 
when things go the wrong way, as they are sure to do at times; 
no amount of grumbling can lighten your real or fancied load, 
or ease the hardship of your position. Of all men gardeners 
are most subject t> ignorant worrying, and from their natural 
temperament they are the least able to bear it. They are said 
to have their full share of perseverance, but less of patience. 
They suffer often from a want of confidence on the part of their 
employers. This unpleasant feeling sours the temper and 
spoils the character, and makes work, otherwise easy and plea- 
sant, heavy and disagreeable. There is but one escape from 
this torment—to grow up and out of it, and in the growing and 
doing to keep a name above blemish cr reproach, not more for 
those around you than for yourself, so that you lower not your 
self-respect.” 

“Tt is a sombre picture you have drawn, Mark, yet I still 
think I shall try it. I faney there is a reverse side you have 
not turned up; it cannot be all work, work, too, in the shade; 
there must be some hours of quiet rest, and gleams of sun- 
shine, rest not overpowered by sleep, and sunshine that 
strengthens without being oppressive.” 

“Yes, you are right. Shall I tell you what you will gain, 
what you cannot help to gainin a greater or less degree ?—a@ 
deeper inlook into Nature’s secrets, a quicker ear to catch the 
music of warbling birds, of gurgling brooks, of rustling trees; 
much knowledge expressed or unexpressed of the ways and 
doings of insect life; a warmer sympathy with the humble 
living things that surround your path; a fuller appreciation of 
Nature’s charms, those touches of beauty which make glorious 
the early morning and the long evening twilight, and leave an 
after-glow of radiant thoughts to brighten the long winter 
nights.’””—Maup. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


We have received from Messrs. Cripps & Son, Florists, Tun- 
bridge Wells, some very beautiful coloured portraits of three 
new HARDY HYBRID CLEMATISES, quite distinct from all others, 
and amongst the most attractive of this very beautiful and 
deservedly popular race of hardy climbers. They commence 
blooming towards the end of May, and continue in flower until 
the buds are destroyed by frost. Under glass they do not 
develope their rich tints so readily as if grown in the open air. 
Euch kind has been awarded a first-class certificate by the 
Floral Committee at South Kensington. One named Lady 
Caroline Nevill, has well-formed lsnuginosa-like flowers, from 
6 to 7 inches in diameter; colour delicate azure blue, with a 
broad purplish lilac longitudinal band in the centre of each 
petal; foliage and growth of lanuginosa. The second, Star of 
India, has flowers 4 to 5 inches in diameter; colour rich violet 
purple, with a rosy purple band in the centre cf each petal; 
foliage and growth of C. Jackmanni. This is undoubtedly the 
most effective of the dark-flowered hybrids. The third is Tun- 
bridgensis, having flowers 4 to 6 inches in diameter, of perfect 
form; colour dark blue, shaded with purple, midrib dark 
purple. This is also of the Jackmanni class ; itis a very abun- 


838 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


dant bloomer, and will make a most useful bedding plant. At 
the same time Messrs. Cripps sent us a coloured drawing of a leaf 
of CaTALAPA SYRINGEFOLIA AUREA, which they consider the most 
valuable hardy ornamental-foliaged tree that has been sent out 
for several years. The Catalpa syringzfolia needs no descrip- 
tion, but the variety, with the same robust growth and habit as 
its parent, has foliage of rich glossy yellow. Planted in the 
full sun, its beauty becomes far more satisfactorily developed 
than in a shady situation, and the leaves will neither curl nor 
burn, as is the case with many yellow-leaved and variegated 
plants. 


Ar the autumn show of the Merroponiran Froran 
Socirry, to be held at the Crystal Palace, August 29th and 
30th, the following extra prizes will be cffered:—By Mr. John 
Keynes, Salisbury, for the best twelve blooms of Dahlias 
(distinct), sent out by him in 1870 and 1871, first prize, £3; 
second, £2; and third, £1. By the Rey. E. Hawke, Willing- 
ham Rectory, for the best seedling Hollyhock, three blooms, 
first prize, 10s.; second, 7s.; third, 5s. The same variety not 
to take more than one prize. 

— WE regret to record the death of Mr. Wrti1am WILson, 
the eminent bryologist, which took place at Wariington on the 
3rd of April, in the 71st year of his age. Mr. Wilson is chiefly 
known as the author of ‘‘ Bryologia Britannica,” the standard 
work upon British Mosses, which was published in 1855, and 
of which a second edition was in contemplation at the time of 


[ May 11, 1872. 


panied by careful manuscript notes, to the Hookerian Her- 
barium.—(Nature.) 

—— THE principal object of interest at the soirée of the Lin- 
nean Society on the 26th ult., was again Mr. Wilson Saunders’s 
collection of Mimetic Puanrs, which was even more remarkable 
than last year. The following is a list of the pairs exhibited :— 


Olea jeuropseapiccistelaciesiseciisielseisecsel\sieiistesiers Oleacee ) 
Swammerdamia antennaria..............4+ Composite 
Anemone coronaria ......... ..,.-Ranunculacer \ 
Pelargonium triste 2.2.2.6... ccc c eee e cee Geraniacee 
Osmanthus heterophyllus ............2+ese0e AS 
Tlex Aquifolium var...............- . Aquifoliaces | 
Gnaphalium orientale.............. .... Composite 
Lavandula lanata ........ccceceseeves .... Labiate 
Tris pulchella ..... ...-Lridacee 
DicEyMtapirid O1UES wartetascicrcisisiersie's/ersini=1s/eleieterals Orchidaceze 


Pothos argyrea .... 
Peperomia arifolia 


Adonis autumnalis ... 


..Piperacese } 
0 Baer 


Pyrethrum inodorum ......,...cesseeeeeees Composite 
Heterotropa asaroides ........... ...Aristolochiacez } 
Cyclamen persicum Var. ..............---- Primulacee } 


Oxalis(Pl mm eri sr tecctetayeisfayelstelel<ivlete|stnlsietetateretarele Oxalidaceze 
Crotalaria laburnifolia. ..Leguminose J) + 
Gentiana lutea ...Gentianacee 
Veratrum viride ...Melanthacee J 
Gymnostachyum Verschaffelti . ....Acanthaceze } 
Echites rubro-venosa ........++.-eeeeeeee Apocynacez 


his decease. He took a high place as an authority upon Mosses Grevillea sp sv se BrOteuoeey 
among continental botanists, and was in intimate communica- ene Es pene ee 
j j j j j j OSM EP cece cree ween nee r ener eet anes e ee ennee 0} we } 
tion with them. In the earlier portion of his life he devoted aniboxnontsoul eae ewe Sinthaeeeee 
much attention to British plants generally, and scattered papers 4 fev aa A 
wabiat and ° fe Euphorbia mammillaria ..... ....Euphorbiacee 
in his name, often containing valuable observations in structure, ‘Apteranthes Gussoniana..... |... Asclepiadacese 
may be found in the ‘ Phytologist,” and other botanical] jour- RDPUOREI ONT). mcanbedtaosouBaccossosnses Umbelliferze 
nals. He is frequently quoted by Sir W. J. Hooker, in the Pelargonium rutefolium .........eseeeeees Geraniacex {| 
‘‘ British Flora,’ and contributed many specimens, accom- | —(Nature.) 
FOUNTAINS. 


Fountains have ever been present in the gardens of warm | 


climates, and there they are most 
appropriate; they give an impres- 
sion, and really are promotive 
of coolness and freshness. They 
were in the garden of Solomon aud 
of Pliny’s villa; but in the latier 
certainly, and in the first-named 
probably, they were only a natural 
spring of water trickling into a 
stone basin. Hven these require 
taste in their arrangement; on the 
continent they are sometimes in- 
decent ; and in this country to see 
water constantly flowing from a 
lion’s or a Monster’s mouth is nota 
pleasant association ; itis more «n- 
durable from the 
mouth of a dol- 
phin, but far better 
from the mouth of 
a slanted urn. 
Fountains, how- 
ever, are usually 
considered as «jec- 
tions of water in a 
stream into the 
air, and a more ab- 
surd, tasteless, ex- 
pensive difficulty 
cannot be conceiv- 
ed, whether it be 
like the perform- 


Fountains in this country should be inactive, except during 
the warm days of the year, and 
in all countries they should toss 
the water to a small elevation, 
but this should in falling, by 
the arrangement of a series of 
tszzas, be broken into cascades be- 
fore it reaches its final basin; water 
descending may be always rendered 
graceful. Such an arrangement is: 
in this which we have borrowed 
from the richly-illustrated cata- 
logue of Messrs.A. Handyside & Co., 
Britannia Iron Works, Derby, an@ 
Walbrook, London. 

An approach to this form exists: 
among the ruins of Pompeii, and 
it is a form whick 
would not be mis- 
placed near a resi- 
dence, or in the 
centre of a lawn. 
All fountains, how- 
ever, we think, 
are most suitably 
placed within & 
group of trees, for 
the water harmo- 
nises with the cool- 
ness which their 
shade secures. 

Some of the 
most appropri- 


ance of a large 


ately ornamented 


squirt, as in the 
Temple Gardens, 


of fountains were 
constructed by the 


Greeks. One espe- 


or in a column of 
water thrown up 


cially is described 


to a height of 267 fest, as the Emperor Fountain at Chatsworth. | with the water flowing from the mouths of dolphins. 


CYPRIPEDIUM NIVEUM. 


Tur accompanying is a portrait of the plant exhibited at the 
Floral Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society, on April 


19th, by Mr. G. Ward, gardener to D. Berrington, Esq., Pont- 
y-Goitrea, Abergavenny, and of which we then observed: This, 


May U1, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 339 


was remarkable in every sense—remarkable for its free flower- | a3 a spring bedder sufficiently recognised. I have now a bed, 
ing, one of the specimens haying ten flowers, which from the | of which the centre is Beta brasiliensis, a sraall red Beet, trans- 


compactness of the 
plant formed quite a 
close mass of flowers, 
and remarkable from 
its entire distinct- 
ness of colour from 
any other Ladies’ 
Slipper which we 
Know, being pure 
white, with some 
faint dottings of pur- 
ple, externally more 
marked, and with de- 
licate lemon blotches 
in the lip. This re- 
ceived a first-class 
certificate. 

We wrote to Mr. 
Ward for further par- 
ticulars, and he has 
obliged us by the fol- 
lowing reply :— 

“We received a 
quantity of C. ni- 
veum from the west 
coast of Siam, in an 
imported ¢c:ndition, 
in the June of last 
year. I immediately 
tied them by their 
heels,and hung them 
up ina shady part of 
the East India house 
for about a fortnight, 
just to acclimatise 
them, and as they all 
began to show signs 
of activity, I potted 
them in the follow- 
ing materiale, which 
I find better than 
that usually recom- 
mended for Cypripe- S 
diums — viz., three 
parts chopped sphag- 
num, one part broken 
potsherds, and a dash of sand. 
I possibly could cram their 
~ roots into, and then they began 
to grow magnificently—in fect, 
they beat any of the imported 
growths, so that you would 
hardly recognise them. 

“T give them a syringing 
overhead nearly every bright 
morning, not sufficiently heavy 
to wet the compost they are in, 
missing it on dull or heavy 
mornings. I usually let them 
get nearly dry, and water about 
every third day. I find them 
very easy to manage. 

“T have a dozen plants in 
bloom now, some with two 
blooms on a spike, and some of 
a much purer white than those 
exhibited. They are still in the 
East India house, the night 
temperature of which is 65° to 
70°, day temperature about 80° 
to 85°. The duration of the 
flowers is about six or seven 
weeks. 

‘There were ten flowers on 
the plant when it started from 


CET EET UUUEESE TOI 


Cypripedium niveum. 


Cypripedium niveum—Flower. 


It is too early to judze of the Apple crop; there is, 


me, but I was informed that two were shaken off during transit.” | of fruit. 


Bret as A Bepprer.—Among the variety of opinions advauced 
about Beet as a bedding plant, I have not seen its advanteges 


planted from where 
it stood the winter, 
and the edging Gold- 
en Feather Pyreth- 
rum, just as it stood 
the winter, now the 
richest golden colour 
possible. This has 
been clipped into 
shape. I have also 
tried Beet, wintered 
in pots just as sown, 
so thickly that it has 
not had room or soil 
to grow more than 
3 inches high. This. 
would form a very 
pretty spring edging 
to yellow Pansies or 
Myosotis, and would 
not grow too large be- 
fore summer plants. 
displaced it. Mine 
has not been planted 
out thickly enough, 
but I shall try it. 
again next year.— 
Kirrie. 


FRUIT 
PROSPECTS. 


Ar present there is 
in the gardens here 
an excellent show for 
fruit; almost every 
tree in every aspect, 
and whether stan- 
dard or otherwise, is 
very full of bloom. 
Apricots were the 
first to blossom; and 
the weather being at 
the time dry though 
cold, the fruit has 


IT put them in as small pots as | set very thickly, and much thinning will be necessary. Some 


of the fruit are a little dis- 
coloured by frost. 

Of Peaches I may say they 
have set an abundant crop 
generally, and the wood has 
not been injured by the severe 
frost. The Shanghai, a very 
large latish Peach, is a tender- 
wooded sort and shy bearer. 
The fruit has no particular 
merit. Taking it altogether it 
is not worth growing, as unless 
the tree is particularly healthy 
the fruit drops off before ripen- 
ing. Nectarine trees are loaded 
with fruit. If Peaches set well 
Nectarines are pretty sure to do 
so, being the hardier of the two. 
Dessert Plums on walls have 
not bloomed so freely as last 
year, though plenty of fruit 
have set, and the late copious 
showers will help to swell them 
off. Commoner Plums, such 
as Orleans, Damsons, and other 
kinds, which have been in full 
bloom during the heavy rains, 
will, I think, have a heavy crop 


however, an abundance of bloom. Of most sorts of Pears there 
is a good crop of fruit swelling off, particularly Kaster Beurré 
on a@ south wall, Beurré de Rance, Glou Morceau, Passe Col- 
mar, Althorp Crasanne, Brown Beurré, and Beurié d’Amaniis. 


340 


Of Marie Louise there will not be an average crop, and Suffolk 
Thorn and Winter Bon Chrétien are rather cut up both in 
foliage and bloom by the late spring frosts. 

Here we have large Red and White Currant trees on walls in 
almost every aspect. These, and others in the plantations, 
could not possibly show a more satisfactory condition for fiuit. 
Cherries, also, promise plentifully, and Gooseberries are swell- 
ing off an excellent crop, although the tops of many of the trees 
have shed their fruit through frost. Of Black Currants there 
is a promise of a very heavy crop. I think there is no doubt 
that if quantity of fruit is the object there is nothing like 
letting the Black Currant establish itself asa large tree. At 
this place most of the trees showing fruit are from 6 to 8 feet 
high and two-thirds as much through; I am told they always 
have borne from top to bottom, and bushels of fruit are regu- 
larly produced. The Black Currant no doubt likes either a 
retentive soil or a moist situation, and here it is quite at home, 
as close by one side runs the river Lea; a branch from it 
is taken through the kitchen garden on the other side of the 
Currant plantation, and the trees thrive remarkably well. Red 
Currants, too, are very flourishing in sucha place. I cannot 
help thinking that where space is an object for economy, and 
ornament 2 thing to be promoted, the Red Currant should be 
planted and trained to stakes as a hedge about 4 feet high, the 
shoots crossing each other like lattice-work. They take up 
little room, produce quite as abundantly, and are very hand- 
some and ornamental all the summer, particularly when in 
fruit, and when growing by the walks there is no harbour by 
the trees for birds; the fruit is likewise better flavoured in 
eonsequence of having an abundance of sun and air, and when 
it is to be preserved for tarts can be netted up easily and with- 
out injury to the trees.—THomas Recorp. 

P.S.—In my notes on thinning Grapes, page 301, in the 
third and fourth lines from the bottom ‘ string” should be 
“ strig.’—_T. RB. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 


Some of the most forward of the early-sown Cauliflower and | 


Cabbage plants will now be in a fit state for final transplanting, 
which should be done the first favourable opportunity, and in 
the event of dry weather prevailing they must be kept well 
supplied with water. Proceed with the pricking-out of Broccoli; 
Brussels Sprouts, Savoys, &c., a8 they become large enough to 
handle, and slso of Celery. Sow fall crops of Dwarf Kidney 
Beans, and Scarlet Runners if not done. Tie-up for blanching 
a few of the largest Bath Cos Lettuce that have stood through 
the winter; these should be kept well supplied with water if 
necessary, in order to induce rapid growth, which is essential 
tc the production of that tender crispness so prized in this 
werlety. Transplant Leeks from the seed-bed as soon as they 
ae ’arge enough, in rows 18 inches apart, and 9 inches from 
plant to plant in the row. The soil cannot be too rich. Keep 
ap stecessional sowings of Lettuces and Turnips. Continue to 
arth-up and stake Peas, but previous to earthing-up let them 
be well thinned out, if too thick. This is a more important 
consideration than is generally allowed. We often sow thickly 

order to insure a crop, but if all come up and are left to 

1 (they will grow, bloom, and produce a number of small 
pods, but after a gathering or two they cease to yield, whereas 
if well thinned-ont a greater weight of finer pods is produced, 
and they will continue to grow and bloom so as to produce a 
succession. One of the chief merits of that excellent Pea, the 
British Queen is, that it continues to produce in succession 
like 2 Kidney Bean, and this is because, being a large strong- 
growing Pea, cultivators are accustomed to give it so much more 
room. The same principle is applicable to other varieties, and 
eight Peas of the smaller kinds, and from four to six of the 
larger in the space of a foot, will produce more and finer pods 
than three times the number in the same space. Radishes will 
now require to he sown very often in smaller quantities; birds 
are apt to be very troublesome to these, and where a constant 
succession of salads must be kept up, I would recommend the 
adoption of a plan which answers well. A couple of portable 
frames 6 inches deep, covered over the top with wire, each 
about 4 yards square, are placed over Radishes, Lettuces, &c., 
and as soon as the plants are well above ground, another sowing 
is made and the frames moved toit. In dry weather it is ad- 
vantageous to give Radishes a guod soaking of water at about 
nine o’clock in the morning when the sup is shining upon 
them; if makes them tender. Encourage Cu:umbers for the 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ May 11, 1871. 


ridges; let them be kept near the glass where they can have 
abundance of light and air to cause them to become sturdy plants 
for turning out. The ridge should be placed in a sheltered 
situation. The method of preparing it is as follows :—Dig a 
trench about 1} foot deep and 3 feet wide, fill-up with well- 
fermented materials 2} feet in height, cover the whole with 
about a foot of light rich soil, then mark out the places for the 
plants about 4 feet apart, on which set the hand-glasses; turn 
out the plants when the soil becomes warm, which will be in 
the course of a few daysif all goon well. Give-a little tepid 
water around the ball to settle the earth. Let the glasses be 
covered with single mats at night till the plants begin to grow, 
when they may be dispensed with. 


FRUIT GARDEN. 

Stir the surface of the earth well amongst Strawberry plants, 
and if in a very dry state give them a liberal supply of water. 
Have ready a well-prepared piece of ground for planting out, 
as they are brought from the forcing structures, all the pots of 
forced Strawberries ; plant them 1 yard apart for a supply of 
strong runners for next year’s forcing, and the crops the next 
year from those left in the ground are superior to those grown 
in the usual way; they willrequire several applications of water 
after planting to give them a fair start. 


FLOWER GARDEN. 

That favourable period following a weary time of wet is always 
one more or less busy to the gardener, a day of sunshine then 
reveals numerous faults against the fair propriety of the gar- 
den. Weeds appear provokingly numerous, the rain has left a 
pool of slime here, a mound of sand there, and disarrangement 
everywhere, which must be repaired without loss of time. 
Flower beds should now be put in a condition suitable to re- 
ceive the fragile plants they are intended for, but unless pro- 
tection can be afforded it would be unwise to venture on plant- 
ing for a week or two. No rule can be laid down for regulating 
distance in planting, a proper consideration of the habit of the 
plant must determine their distribution. Avoid the extremes 
of thick or thin planting. In the distribution of colours, if the 
garden is large the central and marginal beds should be defined 
with positive colours. For particular information as to their 
systematic arrangement, a work by Chevreul may be consulted 
with advantage. 

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 
The preservation of the blossom of decorative plants for a 


| greater or Jess period greatly depends at this season on the 


regulation of the atmosphere. Accustomed as our plants have 
been lately to humidity and gloom, the glare of sunshine and 
the dryness of the air will destroy them in a very short time. 


| To remedy this, keep the paths of the houses damped during 


the day, and employ shading materials. Conservatory beds 
will require water, as also all large plants in tubs; Camellias, 
particularly, being in active growth, will require a liberal sup- 
ply; a watering of manure would be advantageous. Oranges, 
Oleanders, &c., usually removed out of doors, should receive a 
top-dressing of soil, in which sheep’s dung is an ingredient. 
See that all other plants are carefully staked and tied before 
removal. The Pelargoniums will now be showing bloom, if not 
expanded. As soon as this occurs, unless of gross habit, a 
little weak and clear manure water may be given. Such may 
also be applied to the Azaleas making their wood, also to the 
Camellias. Leta reserve stock of Pelargoniums, Calceolarias, 
Verbenas, Heliotropes, &¢., be potted off in 3-inch pots, and 
kept by themselves. Such will serve to maintain continued 
gaiety throughout the latter part of the summer and autumn. 
Fachsias for late blooming must nct be kept too warm; they 
should be placed in a moist, shady house, where they will grow 
much more freely than in a high temperature. 


STOVE. 

Attend to shifting specimen plants of Clerodendrons and 
other gay and popular stove plants. Observe to fumigate fre- 
quently in a light way; heavy fumigations, caused, of course, 
by delaying this necessary precaution, frequently do serious 
mischief. Go over climbers frequently, so as to regulate their 
growth and prevent confusion, which, without attention, soon 
happens. Syringe and shut up early on the afternoons of bright 
days, and be as sparing as possible in the use of artificial heat. 
Examine the plants individually every alternate day, and water 
such as require it, but be careful not to give too much to those 
starting into growth. A cool atmosphere will greatly assist in 
prolonging the beauty of such as are in bloom, 


PITS AND FRAMES. 
Remoye all plants iitended for bed¢iig-out, and let them 


May 11, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


342 


remain under the protection of cold frames for a week previous 
to planting. This preparation will better enable them to with- 
stand unfavourable weather. Do not allow them to sustain 
any check through want of pot room or carelessness in water- 
ing.—W. Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

A Few glorious days after the rains, and as the wet had 
hardened the surface among most growing crops, we took the 
opportunity of the dryness to stir the surface soil with a light 
fork or hoe, according to the size of the plants, the fork being 
used for Cabbages, Cauliflowers, Beans, Peas, Potatoes, &., 
and the Dutch hoe for Onions, Carrots, Parsnips, and young 
crops of Spinach, Radishes, Turnips, and Lettuces. To save 
room in limited space, we often transplant Lettuces freely. 
Had we abundance of room, except for the earliest out-door 
crops we would sow all the summer every ten days or so, and 


that very thinly, and transplant none, but thin out to the | 


requisite distance. This is the simplest and best mode of 
obtaining fine succulent crisp Lettuces. The great secret to 
obtain a continuous good supply in little rcom, is to sow often 
and but little at atime. It is of no use to talk about the 
barrowfuls that could not be used taken to a rubbish heap, if 
you cannot send a dish to table as wanted. A constant un- 
broxen succession is better than great quantities at a time. 
Our planted-out winter Onions are looking very well, and if 
we had a liltle guano or superphosphate by us, we would have 


given them a little between the rows, so that the rains should | 


have washed it in. We may do so still, as it very much in- 
creases the size of the bulbs, but too much must not be giver. 
A very little guano, if good, will goalong way. We have never 
used much artificial manure ourselves. The safest is ground, 
broken, or dissolved bones. 
guano this year that lead us to think that its heyday is past, 
they seemed so alike in texture, feel, and scent to the con- 
centrated manure of years ago. 

We have tried in a small way most of the artificial manures 
advertised, and sent out in little tuts and canisters, and we 


found them all good, and we could recommend them to amateurs | 


who did not like the trouble, or had not the convenience of 
having rotted manure, or manure water tanks; but we would 
urge the importance on all our readers who employ artificial 
manures, of using them sparingly, and always under rather than 
above the strength recommended by the vendor or maker. 
Even the vendors can scarcely find fault with us in saying this 
much, for our limited experience would lead to the conclusion 
that most of the canisters of artificial manures are stronger 
rather than weaker than they are represented to be. It would 
not suit us to mention names, but some time ago an enthusiastic 
amateur who had built a greenhouse, and paid handsomely for 
a collection of the best Azaleas and Camellias, ruined them by 
atoo free application of these canister manures. He was, of 
course, wroth at the result, he was to expose, to prosecute, and 
all the rest of it, but he would only have exposed his own folly. 
Because one ounce was to do so much, he argued four or six 
ounces must do still more good, and thus he killed his 
plants. The experience was costly, but the lesson will never 
be forgotten. Our advice then is, use all artificial manures 
with caution, and not too strong. Eyen good soot, that valu- 
able manure which most of us can command, must be used 
sparingly, either as powder or forming the strength of a liquid. 
It is always sufer to use four weak applications than one very 
strong one. 

Planted-out on a rich border a number of Celery plants, to 
be lifted with larze balls when strong. Some we might have 
transferred to the beds at once where they were to perfect 
themselves, but the plants are now near the water tanks, and 
will give us less trouble for a month or so. We laid hurdles 
over them, with a few branches drawn through them, so as to 
afford a flickering shade, and then in a cold night, if necessary, 
we can throw a mat over the hurdles. 

Put a lot of Kidney Beans in small pots in a frame, to be 
transplanted when of a good size, and these will come in a little 
sooner than those sown in the open air. 

Removed the glass from a lot of our earliest Potatoes, and 
put hurdles across instead, so that we could give a little pro- 
tection if necessary. Moveable frames are in this respect better 
than pits, as the frames can go on another bed, such as for 
Cucumbers or anything else. When pits are used for early 
crops, we cannot move them, but we often move the lights and 
use them for temporary purposes. A rail at the back and front, 


We have seen some samples of | 


and a board set on edge, soon form a box-bed for lights to be 
placed on, and thus many things can be forwarded in cold places. 


FRUIT GARDEN. 

| | We find a number of twigs on our Apricots and Peaches out of 
| doors, now that the sun is gaining power, are showing that they 
| have suffered from frost more than we expected. In these sunny 
| days we have given more air, and have kept houses damper 
| by sprinkling paths, &c., as this sprinkling and even syringing 
should be much regulated by the weather. We have little 
faith in regular syringing or path-damping in very dull weather. 
It is in every way better under such circumstances to let the 
temperature fall a little. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

We have had the most of our walks fresh edged—that is, the 
grass has been cut with our edgingiron. This secures a straight 
line all the summer, and the shears do their clipping better. 
Mowing and cleaning, and preparing flower-beds have taken up 
much time. Some persons are planting-out in their flower 
beds, we prefer waiting from a week to a fortnight. In fact, our 
beds are not yet ready if we wished to get at them. Our place 
is very exposed, and we gain nothing by early planting. Prick- 
ing-off, potting-off, and planting in temporary beds, have taken 
up a good deal of our time, as well as potting what was intended 
for corridors, conservatory, &c. Now is the best time to re- 
gulate, trim, and cut Box edgings; the fresh growth comes so 
green. If the work is done much earlier, there is a risk of 
| blackening or whitening from frost. Camellias and Azaleas 
done flowering can scarcely be moved too soon into a somewhat 
close house by themselves.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVE 
E. G. Henderson & Son, Wellington Road, St. John’s Wood, Lon~ 
don, N.W.—Spring Catalogue of Bedding and Softwooded Plants. 
J. Carter, Dunnett, & Beale, 237 and 238, High Holborn, London, 
W.C.— Catalogue of Bedding and other Plants, 1871. 
F. & A. Dickson & Sons, 106, Eastgate Street, Chester.—Abridged 
List of Bedding Plants. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 
N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. 


Sus-tTropican (Trotty).—Plants of the tropics or elsewhere that require: 
protection during the chief part of the year are cultivated in the open 
' ground here during such months as are sufficiently warm, and such 
gardening is termed sub-tropical. The book you name is out of print, 
and there is none other published with coloured illustrations. For cul- 
tural purposes, lists of varieties, &c., our ‘‘ Garden Manual,” and ‘* In-door 
Gardening” and “ Out-door Gardening,” contain much information. 

Cows.Lip AND Primrose (Fox).—Your specimen is the Oxlip, Primula 
elation: Exposure to light, and moderately rich soil, induce the highest. 
| colour. 


WHOLESOME FuNGI (South Yorkshire).—* Eatable Funguses of Great 
Britain,” with coloured plates and full descriptions, is a book publishe& 
at our office. You can have it free by post if you enclose 7s.8d. with 
your address. 


ORCHARD-HOUSE PEACH TREES DISEASED (Gravenhurst).—If your Peach 
trees had been out of doors we would have said that they had been killed 
by the frost, as a number of ours are. As it was in an orchard house we 
are less sure, but it is likely death arose from the same cause, as the 
wood is rather soft and spongy. We have had wood affected in the same 
way from sulphur-smoking, and from washing with too strong paints ang 
washes, and in the latter case the wood next the bud would suffer most, 
as in one piece yours seems to have done. Where the wood is killed 
right through you can do nothing with the wood above. Where it affects 
only one side of the shoot above, there will be space enough left to keep- 
up a circulation of juices. 


PLANTS FOR THE Back WALL or Coon VINERY (Constant Subscriber).— 
You do not say whether frost is excluded or not; cool vinery is a vague 
term. We presume frost is kept out, is which case for winter flowering 
nothing would suit s0 well as Camellias. Besides these we can only re- 
commend Oranges for the back wall of a vinery. Six Camellias are— 
Bealii, Bonomiana, Monarch, Valtevaredo, Mathotiana alba, and Con- 
spicua. af 

STEPHANOTIS FLORIBUNDA SEEDING (R. H.).—It is not unusual for this 
plant to fruit and produce perfect seeds; indeed, we have seen large 
plants which had been raised from seed in this country, and they were 
three years old. Only last year we saw many dozens of seedling plants 
from home-sayed seed. The plant first ripened seeds in England about 
ten years ago. 


CAMELLIAS AND AZALEAS AFTER FLOWERING (H. H. R.).—After flower- 
ing they should not be put to rest, nor be left unwatered, but should be 
kept moist by being sprinkled overhead, and never allowed to want for 
water at the root; but do not supply any until the soil becomes dry, and 
then give plenty, and always before the foliage flags. They should also 
have a closer atmosphere and slightly higher temperature to insure 
free growth, which effected, they should have more air and a drier at- 
mosphere to secure the ripening of the wood. After the buds are set 
they can hardly be kept too cool and airy. Being evergreen, they require 
water at all seasons. You may procure seed of Primula cortusoides 
amcena of any of the principal nurserymen or seedsmen who advertise in 
this Journal. 


PEARS NoT SETTING Fruit (H. R.).—We think your trees require rich 
top-dressings and copious waterings, Give these, and they will, no 


342 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ May 11, 1871. 


doubt, fruit. We cannot account for the leaves turning black, but it may 
have been caused by the late cold weather. We have some similarly 


affected, and we cannot account for the occurrence in any other way. | 


We presume you practise summer-pruning. Your light soilis not favour- 
able for Pears. They willonly fruit by liberal treament, rich top dressings, 
and good waterings in dry hot weather. 

PLACING Soin AGAINST AN Em TREE (4. L. B.).—Placing soil against 
an Elm, or indeed any kind of tree, is very injurious, especially when the 
oil is laid to a considerable depth against the trunk, and covers the roots 
deeply. We have thus known trees of considerable age killed—in fact, 
the older they are the more injurious is the covering of the roots deeply 
with soil. If you wish tosave the tree the only plan is to remove the soil 
down to the roots. Only last autumn we removed some soil about 4 feet 
deep from around some very large and fine Sycamore trees, the soil 
having been laid on grass that had been originally under them, and we 
noticed that not a root was found in the 4 feet depth of soil, none being 
discovered until we came to the grass, or where they were first formed. 
it was removed to save the trees, and from their present appearance we 
expect a growth this year equalling that of the previous four years. 


on a slight mound, just as we find them in the best specimens natural or 
planted. We say remove the soil at once. 


CLIMBER FoR A SourH Wau (Idem).—Caprifolium luteum is a good | 


Yellow Honeysuckle for a south wall, but, as you say, yellow Jasmine is 
too poor, though you do not say which kind itis, for we consider Jasminum 
vevolutum fine for a south wall. We fear the Honeysuckle will not suit. 
Buddlea globosa has pretty yellow flowers, and Garrya elliptica greenish 
yellow catkins ; both of them suit a southaspect. They are not climbers, 
Sut very suitable. They are evergreen. The climate is too cold for the 
Bignonia, but it will no doubt flower well after a time, thinning out the 
shoots so as to secure the thorough ripening of the wood. 

Sparrows Desrroyvinc WIsTARIA Fiowers (Wistaria’.—We do not 
remember to have noticed the liking of sparrows for the flowers of this 
plant, and we should think, as you do, that “ the birds have been in quest 


of insect pests.” We have known all the flowers of the Wistaria fall 
after a sharp frost. 


CHAFFINCHES IN A GARDEN (S. B).—Chaffinches are destructive in a 
garden. inasmuch as they pull up and of course destroy the seeds of 
Cauliflowers and all the Cabbage tribe, Turnips, Radishes, Lettuce, &c., 
just when they are appearing aboveground; but they are very useful in 
2 garden, as they live for the most part on insect’ food. We never destroy 
them, nor, indeed, any of the feathered tribe We ward off the attacks 
of the Chaffinch by coating the seeds with red lead, just making them 
ted all over, and moistening the seeds first with water so as to make the 
red lead adhere to them; though this costs a little trouble it is not half so 
troublesome as covering with netting. The seeds come up well, not one 
being taken by the birds. In this way we save the seeds and have the 
full ben: fit of the birds. Eyen the sparrow consumes many insects in- 
festing trees and plants, rearing its young solely on insect food. 


Soor WATER For Syrinoine (F. Z. P.).—It is first-rate both for pre- 
venting and destroying insect pests, but is not safe for plants in flower, 
as it will discolour the blossoms; nor can it do much good at sucha time, 
as it is then necessary that they should be kept dry. 


Lomaria Gis (Idem).—It is a stove Fern, but we have grown it ina 
vinery in summer, and have also wintered it safely in a vinery, frost 
being excluded; indeed we have in a stove two fine plants which were so 
grown for over eighteen months. 


Presr LEAVES BLACKENED (R. S. F.).—The leaves enclosed to us are 
blackened by cold. There isnoremedy but to afford protection on frosty 
nights and in cold weather Your onlyremedy is patience. Finer weather 
will make all right, though the blackened leaves will not recover, and 
when the weather is more settled remove the blackened leaves by degrees, 
“aking the worst first. 


_ PLANTING BEDDING PELARGONIUMS (Kittie).—One foot apart every way 
is a very suitable distance. Wecannot account for the Coronillas not 
flowering. They do well ina cool greenhouse; perhaps yours are kept 
“too warm. There is no book treating of what you require, nor would it 
be of any great value. Stopping and disbudding are only usefulin certain 
stages of plant growth. 


Picea Prnsaro BeaRinG Cons (Lincolnshire Vicar).—It is not unusual, 
but the seeds do not asa rule become perfect in this country. If the 
feeds were good they would have a marketable value, but not great, as 
continental seed can be obtained at a low price. 


PoLEMONIUM CERULEUM VARIEGATUM—TREATMENT OF ForcEeD Roses 
(B. B.).—Tt attains a height of about 9 inches, and would form a good 
edging to small beds, with Coleus in the centre. Roses which have 
flowered in the greenhouse should be hardened off and placed out of doors 
in an open situation, the pots plunged in ashes, and water given as re- 
quired throughout the summer. with frequent sprinklings overhead. 
Repot them in September, and remove them to a cool house in October, 
pruning in November. From the leaf we think your Acacia is A. lophan- 
tha, but we cannot name plants from leaves only. Flowers as well as 
foliage are necessary for identification. ° 

DwaAarrinc RHoDODENDRONS (F. G.).—We do not approve of cutting 
down such kinds as R Nuttalli, Edgworthi, Falconeri, and javanica, 
though it is quite safe to do so, yet they must grow a year or two before 
hey will flower again. Copper wire tied round would cause them to 
break lower down, but it would be at the expense of the part above. We 
do not know of any other plan, and do not commend these. Good large 
plents are far better than small; indeed they are not in character until 
they are of good size. If your plants are well furnished they might readily 
dbo exchanged for smaller by applying to some of the principal plant- 
growing nurserymen. 

Crmeer FoR SUMMER House UNDER TREES (A. B, T.).— It is very 
‘lifficult to grow climbers of any sort under closely planted trees, the 
roots of the Jatter making the soil so dry in summer that the newly- 
planted climbers have a very poor chance. The different kinds of Ivy are 
the best we know. Trayeller’s Joy (Clematis Vitalba) we have found 
aiseful, also Virginian Creeper. 

Suipaare or Leon ror Peacu TREES (C. R).—Your query was answered 
some weeks back, and we can only now say that we do not know anything 
of sulphate of iron as applied to Peach and Nectarine trees. 

FRAXINELLA RAISING FROM SEED (Idem).—The seed may have been 


The | 
stems of all trees should stand, or be raised above the surrounding level, | 


bad, for it is difficult to obtain it sound. It should be sown as soon as it 


| is ripe in rich deep soil but on a dry bottom, and covered about an inch 


deep with fine soil. The seed will not vegetate until the following April 
or May; and if you purchase seed, or sow in spring that of the previous 
year, it will not vegetate until the April following, or for twelve months, 
and scarcely one seed out of a hundred will grow if kept out of the ground 
until spring. The seedlings should remain where sown two years, and 


then be planted out where they are to remain. They usually flower the 
third year. 


PLANTS FoR A SMALL ConsERVATORY (A Constant Subscriber).—We 
name a few, and principally winter-flowering, as you desire such. Acacia 
armata, A. oleifolia elegans, A. pulchella, Chorozema cordatum splendens, 
Coronilla glauca variegata, Correas Brilliant and magnifica, Cyclamen 
persicum, Cytisus racemosus, Libonia floribunda, Linum trigynum, Lu- 
culia gratissima, Monochetum ensiferum, Primula cortusoides amcena, 
RhodoGendron jasminiflorum, Princess Alexandra, and Princess Royal, 
Vallota purpurea; Azaleas Brilliant, Chelsoni, Criterion, Duc de Bra- 
bant, Etoile de Gand, Iveryana, Mars, Queen Victoria, Stella, Vesuvius, 
Wilhelm Lester, and President Claeys; Camellias Alba plena, Benneyi, 
Comte de Flandre, Conspicua, Fimbriata, La Pace, Leeana superba 
(Bealii), Valtevaredo, Storyi, Rafia, Mrs. Cope, and Monarch. Besides 
these you will, of course, grow Primulas and Cinerarias, bulbs, Dielytra 
spectabilis, Spirea japonica, and Deutzia gracilis. Pelargoniums to 
flower in winter require to be kept stopped until August, and should be 
potted in September. 


CHEILANTHES ELEGANS (Idem).—That is the name of the Fern of which 
you enclose a frond. It does well in a greenhouse, andin a position par- 
tially shaded from bright sun. It requires a compost of two parts sandy 


| peat, one part fibrous loam, and sandstone in pieces from the size of a 


pea to that of a hazel nut, anda like part of silver sand. God drainage 
should be given, and when growing the watering should be liberal; in 
winter less is required, but even then the soil must be kept moist. 


PRUNING EVERGREENS (E. H. B.).—There is no book on the subject, 
nor is one needed, for all those you mention may be pruned with a knife, 
not shears, now or any time in spring, and may have their shoots re- 
moved to any extent you wish. 


PREVENTING GREEN Fry (Buty).—We are not aware of any composition 
that may be applied to Roses and Pelargoniums as a preventive of this 
aphis. The best plan is to fumigate with tobacco whenever any of the 
insects are seen. Soapsuds are useful for syringing wall fruit trees and 
even out-door Roses, but they vary so much in strength that it is a_ques- 
tion solely of experiment, and in that way only can we ascertain the 
strength to be employed. Sometimes soapsuds contain a large quantity 
of soda, at other times little or none. We use soapsuds for Asparagus, 
between rows of Cauliflowers, and for watering Celery, &c., and if em- 
ployed for washing wall trees we dilute with double the volume of water. 
Good waterings and liberal treatment will keep off mildew. 


ReEMovine Oxp Pant (Hortulanus).—The most effectual application is 
naptha. The oldest and hardest paint is dissolved by it, and may be 
then wiped off. 


Guass AGainst Fruit Watts (B. S.)—This will always be an ad- 
vantage. If sashes are laid against the trees it will help them both when 
in bloom, and also if it is desirable to ripen them earlier, removing them 
during the summer. If left, an open space should be preserved at top 
and bottom for air. We are no advisers for having anything like a fixed 
Toof afoot or so from the wall, for if so the sashes must move or slide, 
or howare you to get at the trees, to wash, water, clean, prune, &c.? Sashes 
are only economical when they are there and to spare. A fixed roofis 
the cheapest inevery way. For your wall we would have a hipped roof of a 
foot, and in that have the ventilators, and then some glass resting on a rail 
and posts in front, at least 4 feet from the wall, with a ventilator between 
the wall and ground. Amore simple house and a more useful one would 

be to make the glass into a 


A& lean-to thus, as you would 
Ts have so much more room in- 
SS side, and such an orchard 


house could be put up more 


cheaply than making sashes 
~N to lay against the wall. We 
would haye a narrow house 
one for the wall 15 feet in 
height. A great advantage 
will be gained by just having 
enough of room to walk and 
work inside. Without that we 
would not use glass except 
as moveable sashes. As stated 
above, except for temporary 
purposes, we haye no faith in 
the glass merely a foot from 
we would use 21-oz. thirds, or best fourths, as good enough for the put- 
pose. The common plan would be to have rabbets and glaze in the 
usual way with putty. Were we doing the work for ourselves we would 
haye grooves in the rafter sash-bars deep enough to give the glass play, 
dispense with putty, and fix the glass firmly by a packing of cord or list 
beneath, 

GREENHOUSE ConsTRUCTION (Arundo).—It is very desirable that all the 
front lights should open, as it is not possible to give too much airtoa 
greenhouse in summer. The difference in expense between fixed lights 
and those made to open is not great, and economy of this kind is, as you 
lights hinged, and raised or lowered by an iron rod and crank, for by it 
you can give air even in rainy weather, but by the cord, pulley, and 
weight principle the lights must remain shut in wet weather, or allow 
wet to fall upon the plants. The end ventilation is of no consequence, 
You will have sufficient without any at the west end, and the door only 
need be opened in very bright hot weather, and not then if very windy. 

Vine Leaves’ EpGes Brown (B. G.).—We haye traced in many in- 
stances this injury to one of two causes, or to the two causes combined— 
deficient supply of sap, so deficient as not to sustain the luxuriant growth 
of the leaves, and absence of free ventilation, so that the moisture which 


is Er for the 8-feet wall, and a wider 

i'l the wall. For permanent work 

say, expensive in the end. It is by far the best plan to have the top 
collects on the edges of the leaves is not dried-off before bright suushine 


a ae 


| 


Way 11, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


343 


visits them. We think in your case the cause is chiefly defect of rap, as 
the leaves are vigorous and the roots outside. More warmth in the soil 
would in such case have been a preventive. 


VINES BREAKING IRREGULARLY (A. B.).—Tie back the canes, bringing 
the upper part below the base, and keep them in that position until the 
lower part is well broken, and then tie them up to the rafters. 


HeEatinc VINE Borper (C. P.).—It would not be of any great benefit to 
put heating material on the border now, for it would afford no greater 
warmth than the sun’s rays, and to cover the border now will only be to 
shut them out. Had such a covering been put on three months sooner 
it would have been of great advantage, heating the border at a time when 
it was cold, and causing more root action in consequence. The removal 
of stones from gardens and shrubberies is not beneficial, only it gives the 
soil aneater appearance. The soil being light and porous with a gravelly 
bottom the removal of the stones will do harm, inasmuch as it diminishes 
the staple. For neatness and facility of working, their removal, however, 
becomes necessary, adding their equivalent in manure or compost. 


Spots on VINE LEAVEs (G. S.)—We have never seen a case precisely 
similar. There is no fungus on the spots, which evidently arose when 
the leaves were quite young. Either the roots must be in a very bad con- 
dition, or there must have been some defect_in overheating at night, and 
consequent withering by radiation. 

VinE LEAVES WARTED (4 Constant Reader).—The leaf sent shows warts, 
the consequence of a close, confined atmosphere. The holes we attribute 
to weevils, and for these your best remedy is to search at night with a 
candle or lantern, shake the Vine briskly on a white cloth, and catch 
what falls. About 9 PM. would be a good time. 


VINES AND VINE BorDERs (R. S.).—We are glad that the borders made | 


inside the greenhouse have answered so well, chiefly, we believe, owing 
to the good drainage and the free admixture of lime rubbish with the 
common garden soil. We would have preferred a lot of bruised and 
broken bones to so much rotten dung, as they are more lasting, and there 
is no danger of their running into an unctuous mass. Your experience is 
valuable as showing that good old garden soil will srowgood Grapes. We 
have often seen fine Grapes grown in the same! as that which suits 
Cabbages and Turnips, though in making a new border we would prefer 
friable mellow loam from sods if we could obtain it. Having done so well 
inside, we should haye been tempted toadopt a similar plan outside. We 
think that, where the position will admit of it, itis an error to make a 
huge deep hole of some 5 feet in depth for a Vine border. We would 
rather have a good position above the surrounding ground level. Where 
the ground cannot be raised, a moderate depth must be obtained by 
going down, guarding against stagnant water by free drainage. The brick- 
bats and lime rubbish to the depth of 2 feet were quite proper; less 
would have done if placed open, but instead of placing 5 ewt. of bones 
on the top of this rubbish, we would have mixed them with the bulk of 
the soil; and instead of mixing so much rotten dung with the soil, we 
would have used less, and then given asurface mulching. The tendrilling 
of the bunches leads to one of two conclusions—either the roots are 
getting too deep, or the wood has been imperfectly ripened, the latter 
being often aresult of the former. Still, as the Vines are so healthy, we 
would not lift them before giving them a trial of a year or two more; but 
to encourage the roots nearer the surface we would mulch in summer, 
water if necessary, and cover the border with dry litter early in autumn, 
Say in the middle of October. We would also keep the border drier in 
autumn, and give more air and a little more fire heat before the leaves 
turned yellow. 


VinE LEAVES ScorcHED (G. W).—If you can find out how the leaves 
and shoots are all scorched and burned up in your house, and not a leaf 
or shoot in a house 5) yards distant affected, then you will know all about 
it better than we can tell you. 
belong to Lady Downe’s, or s°me similar woolly variety, then there is 
nothing but the scorching, otherwise we should fear you had mildew. If 


The leaves sent were withered. If they | 


| as you refer to, was owing to the dearness of the glass. 


Sulphur. As to how such an insect comes, that is often seemingly myste- 
rious. A single plant brought with an insect upon it would be quite suffi- 
cient to filla place. One or two on the coat of a visiting gardener might 
make a beginning. 

STRAWBERRIES BLoomLEss (——).—As your Strawberry pots in a Cu- 
cumber house have not shown a blossom, we have little faith in the same 
plants doing good service for forcing next year, or fruiting at any time ; 
therefore we would throw them away and have fresh plants for next 
Season, taking runners from bearing plants. A Cucumber house would 
do in an emergency for swelling and ripening Strawberries, but the tem- 
perature necessary is too high to start and grow them in. 


Moss oN Woop Paru (C. J. E.).—It is not a Moss, but Sagina pro= 
cumbens, Pearlwort. As the wood path is on a moist soil, the way to 


encourage the plant as you desire will be to manage to keep it moist 
throughout the summer. 


Tacsonras (4. M. G.).—The Tacsonias do very well in large pots or 
tubs, and if well watered and mulched will bloom more freely than when 
planted out. Of course they will drop their buds if the roots are dry. 
You may plant them outside, and bring the stems into the house like 
Vines, and they will do very well if the stems be protected from frost, 
and the roots as well, by a covering of litter or moss. 


FLOWER-GARDEN PLAN (IW. S.).—We very much admire your flower~ 
garden plan, owing to its simplicity and roominess. Your No. 1 central 
clump could not be improved, planted with Coleus, with curved ovals of 
Polemonium ceruleum roundit. 2,3, 4,5 will be very nice, and so will 
6and7 be. Asyou hint, we would arrange 8, 9; andasyou have the plants, 
we would centre the purple Verbena with Christine, and edge with dwarf 
Calceolaria, yellow. 10 and 11, and 12 and 13, are cross beds. Keeping 
that in view and the plants you have in stock, we would surround 10 and 
11 with Golden Chain, and 12 and 13 with Iresine Lindenii. 


PREPARED CALICO FOR STRAWBERRY AND MELON Frames (H. R. D.). 
—The great inducement for using glazed and waterproofed calico, such 
When the duty 
was removed calico was less in demand. Even now for many protecting 
purposes nothingis better than calico, even in its natural state. If firmly 
stretched it excludes moisture like an umbrella, The forwarding of 
Strawberry plants taken up with balls from the open ground, and covered 
with calico prepared as stated, so as to gain two or three weeks in gather- 
ing, will depend entirely on what the sun does for you, and on your lifting 
the plants. You say the first week in March. We have been very suc- 
cessful from lifting in April and on the first days of May, and covering 
with glass, by giving a little extra heat below the soil; but we should not 
advise you to do this at the beginning of March, as we fear you would thus 
give an impetus to growth instead of flowers and fruit. If you gave no 
such help, why not leave your plants where they are, and keep them 
covered except in bright days, when the sun could have all the power? 
We presume, however, that you wish to move the plants to a better- 
position. We see that your frames are sound and good, so we suppose 
that your calico is fixed to frames that you can use much as glass sashes. 
In answering inquiries we do not like to go beyond our experience or 
direct observation. We have covered a sloping border with sashes in the 
beginning of May, merely laying the sashes on pots and placing a board 
back and front, and we have had fine gatherings fourteen and sixteen 
days earlier than from those exposed. We have done the same, and in 
dull weather we have gathered from five to seven days earlier. Twice or 
thrice with the same convenience as to back and front, in the way of 
boards, we have stretched a roll of clean unbleached calico along quite 


| tight; the calico, however, rendered bright from previous use, and in one 


case we gained eight days, and in several cases three or four days. The 


| forwarding in such cases depends much on the weather. We should think 


we have not a doubt that your foliage and young shoots are scorched and | 


‘purned. The Vines would be safer at 16 rather than 10 inches from the 
glass; but the chief cause of the burning we consider is found in your 
own statement, ‘‘the house was closed except a few hours in the day.” 
We agree with you that frost has had no influence in the matter. We do 


not think that bad or spotted glass has much to do with it,as then the | 


“scorching would have been more partial than general. We believe your 
remedy will be found in early air-giving, and if that is inconvenient, 
leave a little air on all night; half aninch along the apex will prevent 
confined vapour. Better give an inch, and use a little artificial heat to 
-counteract the air-giving. 


Vine LEAVES AND STEMS BURNED Brown (Wyeside!.—From what cause 
we cannot say, but some downy leaves, like those of Lady Downe’s Vine, 
sare more apt to blister and turn brown than Black Hamburgh; and Vines 
coming into bearing late are more apt to suffer than earlier ones, chiefly, 
in our opinion, because less care is bestowed on early and careful venti- 
lation. Nothing is more certain than this, that even from the thickness, 
-a leaf of Lady Downe’s will burn when a leaf of Black Hamburgh and a 
leaf of Muscat would suffer nothing. We are not surprised that your 
Apricots suffered from dryness. We are sorry to say that Apricots and 
Peaches, after thriving well in many places, are now suffering from what 
spe frosts left behind them; many shoots are shrivelling up that seemed 
fresh. 


EXUDATION ON GRAPES (An Old Subscriber)—We cannot be quite cer- 
-tain from your description, but we fear “the pimply, sticky, dew-like 
matter” on your bunches of Grapes now colouring comes from the mealy 
bug. Youcan soon satisfy yourself, for the bug itself, with its cottony 
covering, will be easily seen. If that is the case you can hardly have 
anything worse. All youcan do nowis to mitigate the evil, and that by 
using a small brush, dry, to get rid of as much as possible of it, and 
haying several brushes, cleaning one as it becomes dirty, and drying it 
previous to use. No kind of smoking, nor anything we have tried, will 
injure the mealy bug. Any liquid you might use now, such as Pooley’s 
or Veitch’s, would injure the appearance of the Grapes. If it is the 
-mealy bug it is in no way attributable to anything wrong in the cultiva- 
tion or general management ; in fact, the condition of your Grapes and 
Vines provesthat. At present you can only mitigate the evil. When the 
Grapes are cut and the wood ripe we would advise washing everything 
~with hot soft-soap water, and not a cranny of wood, wall, stage, or shelf 
“must be missed. The Vines should be painted with clay, soft soap, and 


that in moderately sunny weather you would gain more than u fortnight, 


| but, then, we have not proved it, As for Me'ons we would advise planting 


| out in the middle of June instead of the middle of May, when they were 
so it would be a consequence of a confined moist atmosphere, otherwise | 


to be covered with such prepared calico. But here we have had no 
personal experience, only we haye proved over and over again that but 
little extra heat is needed for the hardiest Melons after the middle of 
June. 


PeAcH Leaves HoLeD AND BLISTERED (JW. B.).—As far as we recollect 
the leaves sent before had traces of scalding, some of these leaves have 
the same; 8.30 4.a. is not soon enough to give air, if the house catches 
the morning sun. Under such circumstanc:s we would give air fully 
one hour anda half earlier, or most likely leave half an inch along the top 
all night. There is much misconception as to air-giving. We have no 
faith in breezes and strong currents of airin houses. It is amazing how 
little air will do if it is given early, and the temperature rises and fal's 
pradually with sun heat, a diff-rent thing from fire heat however applied. 
It is hot, confined air loaded with vapour that causes the scalding or 
blotching. There are different appearances in the Peach leaves. Those 
thin and whitish in appearance have chiefly the marks of decrepitude from 
age and wantof nourishment. Those thin and small, from trees planted 
last autumn, are nothing much out of the way. We think that next season 
they will be all right, with early air-giving.&ec Those leaves with holes 
in them and blotches we are rather doubtful of. The blotch we con- 
sider a decided case of scalding. The holes inthe leaf, if they had been 
empty, we would at once have considered as a proof that there was 
fungus affecting the roots. The best remedy is plac’ng fresh soil about 
the roots, and using flowers of sulphur, moderately of course. We know 
no one who has made such researches in this direction as Mr. McKay, 
gardener at Woburn Abbey, and this is the remedy he applied. We in- 
stanced the other week a most successful combination of a flower bed, 
for which we ure indebted to Mr. McKay, jun. So far as we understand 
or know, we are indebted to Mr. McKay, sen, for tracing the connection 
between the holes in Peach leaves, as if they had been riddled with small 
shot, to an attack of mildew on the roots, one additional reason for not 
using leaf mould or dung so fresh as to contain spawn of various fungi, 
We might have at once come to the conclusion that these holed leaves 
were the effects of fungi at the roots, but that many of the holes were 
not open, but had burnt brown patches not fallen out, of from one-eighth, 
to one-quarter, or one-half of an inch in diameter. That and the ap- 
pearance round them led us to imagine a slight scalding from warm con- 
fined yapour, and a burning from some nodes or scratches in the glass, 
acting aa foci or burning glasses. Then the crowding of so many trees 
in one house may be some disadvantage to you. The remedies we pro- 
pose, then, are early air-giving as above, fresh soil if it can be given, and 


344 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 11, 1871. 


if not practicable now, forking the soil so as not to injure the roots, a 
scattering of flowers of sulphur, a good watering with manure water, and 
daubing up every scratch and knot in the glass with piint or putty. 


CucuUMBER LFAVES BLISTERED (Chesham).—The leaf you enclosed /o 
us is blistered by the sun’s rays falling on it whilst wet with the con- 
densed moisture of the previous night; or it may be from keeping the 
plants close for some days, as in dull and moist weather, and then the 
weather becoming bright and warm the sun’s rays dry up the moisture 
1oo quickly, and the leaves are scalded or scorched. It is well for some 
days to shade for a few hours in the hottest part of the day in bright 
weather succeeding 2 period of dull weather. That and early air-giving 
will remedy the blistering of the leaves. Itis not unlike the disease. 


Grartine AucuBas (An Old Subscriber)—The best time to graft is at 
the beginning of February, using one-year-old wood, and that of the stock 
may be of any age, but it is wellif the wood of the stock is about equal 
in thickness with that of the scion. We have no experience of budding 
Aucubas, but have no doubt of its succeeding. Try it in July, not re- 
moving the wood. Grafting is best done under glass, and in that case it 
may be performed as early in summer as the wood ‘is firm—August or 
September, and from that up to March. 


LitiEs OF THE VALLEY (WU. C.).—The indifferent flowering of these is 
due, we think, to the heat and drought of last summer combined with tke 
sunny aspect. Transplant them next November in good, rich, light soil, 
where they will be skaded from the direct midday sun. An east border 
answers well. The double Violets plant out in 2 goodrich soil on anorth 
border, watering wellin dry weather, and taking up at the close of Sep- 
tember; then pot them, place them in a cold frame, and in October re- 
move the large leaves, in fact all that are old, and place in a light airy 
Position in the greenhouse. In taking up preserve a good ball, removing 
only the loose soiJ, and place in pots sufficiently large to hold the 
roots without cramping. 


‘ GREEN APHIS ON RosEs (H. E. W.).— Quassia and soft soap will no doubt 
destroy aphis. The wash is made by boiling 4 ozs. quassia chips inagallon 
of water for half an honr; let the liquid stand until cool, then strain, add 
6 ozs. of soft soap, and then enough water to make three gallons. With 
this the bushes may be syringed overhead in the evening. We consider 
tobacco water the best remedy. It may be had of most tobacco manu- 
facturers, and should be diluted with six times its quantity of water; or 
it may be made by pouring a gallon of boiling water on 4 ozs. of the 
strongest tobacco, covering up, allowing the liquid to stand until cool, 
and then straining. The shoots infested with aphis may be dipped in it, 
or the plants may be syringed with it. 

ANTS IN CUCUMBER-BED (Reigate).—The best plan is to place a little 
honey in saucers for a few days, and after the ants flock to this mix with 
it an equal proportion of arsenic. 

Names oF Fruits (Lachenalia)—1, Scarlet Nonpareil; 2, Sturmer 
Pippin. 

Ruane oF Prants (T. Walters) —The yellow-flowered shrub is Berberis 
Aquifolium, Holly-leayed Berberry. The other specimens were mere 
cried leaves. (X. Y. Z ).—Cineraria maritima, Sea Ragwort. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


REARING CHICKENS. 


As “0. P. Q.” refers to me to throw some light upon what I 
should call his prodigious losses, and as his feeding tallies 
almost entirely with mine, I can see no other reason for it ex- 
cept possibly breeding in-and-in. The other day I met a noted 
breeder of Game, one of many years’ standing, who bred Game 
years ago for the pit, but who now breeds for exhibition. His 
first words were, ‘‘ Well, how are your chickens?” 
was, ‘Few, but very strong and healthy.” Hevreplied, ‘‘I wish 
mine were the same. I thinkI do well if I rear one-half of 
those hatched.” At this remarkI smiled. He then said, ‘Ii 
you bred Game to win with, you would dothesame. Formerly 
(twenty years ago) when I bred for the pit I hardly lost a 
chicken, now I lose scores.” I asked him to explain this; he 
said it was breeding in-and-in, without which, he asserted, Game 
could not be bred to the standard required for exhibition. May 
not this be the case in ‘‘O. P. Q.’s” yard? 

Change of breeding ground is, no doubt, desirable, but for 
the last twelve years I have always bred on the same spot. I 
haye about two acres of grass run, and my fowls are never off 
it. Then, again, his soil is the same as the soil of my ran— 
gravelly; but I can attach little importance to this, for Admiral 
Hornby’s birds are reared on a very stiff clay. 

Does ‘0. P. Q.” feed early and late? This is very important 
at the present time of the year. My hour for the last feed is 
ten o’clock at night, and for the first six o’clock in the morn- 
ing; the birds are fed as often as they will eat, and nothing is 
ever left after their meal. All these things have been over and 
over again recommended in this Journal, but I am afraid they 
are not generally acted upon, and my experience leads me to 
say that no one can win with chickens of the large breeds with- 
out strict attention to such rules. 

Another thing occurs to me. Are the hens he breeds from 
those which have been over-fattened or got up for exhibition, or 
those that have been frequently exhibited ? Chickens from such 
hens are generally very weakly. Ido not think amongst my 
breeding hens there is one weighing over 7 lbs., although I could 
easily make some of them between 9 lbs. and 10 lbs. I like 


My answer | 


couraging. Classes are numerous—five are given to the ‘‘ Lops, 


my breeding stock to be kept in running condition, andvalways 
rather underfed than overfed. I find Dorking chickens most 
easy to rear, but in cold weather I never have more than seven 
chickens to a hen; in fact, I rarely allow them to have more. 
I use no artificial foods, nor doI put anything in the water. 
My idea is that the nearer you approach nature the better, and 
therefore I strongly object to using medicines, unless the fowls 
show symptoms of disease, and till then I never give tonics or 
medicines of any kind. On one occasion, some years ago, 
our family doctor, then an old man, came into my yard, and 
at the time I was giving the chickens sulphate of iron in 
their water. He asked the reason; having told him, he gaid, 
‘* Your birds look very healthy, whatis the matter with them ?” 
I told him “Nothing.” THe at once said, ‘‘ Then stop giving 
them that stuff. When a person is well the less physic he gets 
the better ; and why are you giving physic to your chickens’ in 
perfect health ?” Since then I have never used anything but the 
best food, and I find that is all the artificial food they require. 

Ido not set up my system of rearing as perfection, but merely 
state my experience. With me it has given perfect satisfaction. 
Ihave finished hatching for the season, and have as yet lost 
but one chicken.—T. HE. Ket. 


I cannot be called a lucky fellow, and I never won a silver 
cup with poultry in my life (but if I did, I think I should put 
it in the dining and not the drawing-room), and I do not intend 
to try; but I hardly ever losea chicken, and if my experience 
is of any useto7y)1 correspondent, here it is for him. I feed 
for three weeks <0 custard (an egg broken into a teacupful of 
boiling milk and stirred until it becomes quite thick), groats, 
end any odd scraps, as potatoes, meat chopped fine, &.; after 
that time, groats, wheat, &e. In their water I put a little of 
Day’s game paste. I shut them up with the hen in the coop 
at night, and never let them out until nine o’clock or so in the 
morning. I move the coop every day a foot or two to a fresh 
place. I have not lost a single chicken or Duck this year, 
except one whole hatch through rats—H_ A. 


STROUD SHOW—DATE OF FIXTURE AND 
CLOSING OF ENTRIES. 


Ir is to be regretted when two important fixtures like Strond and 
the Bath and West of England clash, but the alteration of the date 
of fixture is not such an easy matter as some may suppose. Itis a 
simple matter for an exhibitor to elect which of two shows he will 
patronise, and it is natural he should wish to patronise both; but, 
however much those interested in either show may desire his support, 
or however much they may wish things could be so arranged as to 
admit of both being patronised, it cannot this year be done; and as it. 
is simply impossible to turn round or back ont, the carriages must 
endeavour to pass. The entries for Strond close on Saturday the 13th 
inst., and exhibitors of Canaries and British and foreign birds will 
please notice this, as the date of closing entries is somewhat earlier 
than is usual—Srtrovp. 


I am sure all exhibitors of Rabbits will be glad to find such an in- 
vitation given as that set forth in the Strond schedule. I feel that the 
Exhibition will prove so satisfactory as to become annual, which I hear 
is the intention of its promoters if this, their first attempt, prove en- 
” 50 
their patrons cannot complain, and four classes more are offered to 
the other portion of the Rabbit family, and in these four will un- 
doubtedly be found all with long and short hair, and the tiny Dutch 
contrasting with the fine Belgian Hare, or probably the even still 
larger Patagonian, so forming a complete assemblage of the varieties. 
The prizes I think fairly proportionate with the entry fee, and in addi- 
tion there is a silver cup, value three guineas, for the most points in 
eachclass. Anextrafeeis required from competitors for the cup, yetmany 
will doubtless pay it, for the chance of a so-much-to-be-desired evidence 
of success. I have a feeling that exhibitors generally are anxious for 
silver or gold in thisform. The arrangements are wished to be com- 
plete in every way to insure the safety and convenience of the Rabbits, 
and all is promised to be done that can be, to insure all exhibitors of 
this year being also found as such in the future. The Judge haying 
only one section of the Show, will have time suflicient for making 
careful awards.—Cuan.es Rayson, Ivy Lodge, Didsbury. 


EPWORTH POULTRY SHOW. 


Tue sixth annual Show took place on the Sth inst., and, considering 
that the town is six miles from the nearest railway station, the Exhi- 
bition was excellent, there being 553 entries—106 in excess of last 
year. The Committee worked with a hearty goodwill, and the birds 
were well attended to, and all dispatched to their various destinations 
on the evening of the same day. 

In Spanish, the first-prize birds were very good, but of the rest only 


tre 


May 11, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


the second-prize pen deserved notice. Of Dorkings there were but 
two pens of moderate quality. The class for Red Game was good; 
the first-prize and cup went to a splendid pen of Black Red, and the 
second to good coloured Brown Reds, which, in the opinion of some, 
might have given way to a pen of Black Reds, the second-prize cock, 
although of a capital colour, being rather narrow in body and shoulders. 
In the Duckwing class the first prize was awarded to a very fine- 
coloured pair, the second-prize pen losing only in the colour of the 
cockerel, which is very dark on the saddle. The Brahmas, with the 
exception of one pen of Dark birds, were very poor. Cochins were 
better. The first prize went to Buffs, and the second to Partridge- 
coloured; the cock in Mr. Watts’s highly-commended pen was almost 
white on the tail. Unfortunately the Committee have not seen their 
way to the redistribution of the Hamburghs, which are shown in two 
elasses only, but the birds were as good as could be desired, Silvers 
winning both prizes in the Spangled class, and Golden-pencilled being 
first and Silver-pencilled second in the Pencilled. The cup for the 
best pen except Game was awarded to the Golden birds in this class; 
the cock was the most perfect we have yet seen in a show pen. In 
Black-breasted and other Red Game Bantams the prizes were taken 
with the greatest ease, although the class was good. In the next class 
very good Piles were first, with a nice pen of Duckwings second, but 
the best Duckwing cock shown was badly supported with ahen. A 
pen of very good Black Bantams was first in the Black and White 
class, the second being Whites such as are rarely seen. Inthe Variety 
class of Bantams, Pekins were first and very good Silver Sebrights 
second. In the Variety class were but three entries, Czéve-Cours 
wiuning both prizes. 

The single Game cock prizes were awarded to a Duckwing anda 
Brown Red respectively, though we confess a leaning towards the 
latter, the former having a deformed claw, although doubtless from an 
accident. The first prize for a single cock of any other variety went 
.to a Golden Poland, and the second to a Buff Cochin. In the class 
for single hems were some good birds, the first-prize bird being a 
Spanish and the second a Silver Poland. With the exception of the 
winners, the Rouen Ducks were very poor, and the Aylesbury Ducks 
were bad. In the Variety class for Ducks were many entries, but 
some of the birds were out of feather, though the first-prize Bahamas 
and second-prize Mandarins were exceedingly handsome. The first prize 
in the Selling class went to Spanish, and the second to Bui Cochins. 

There was an unpleasant misunderstanding with one of the exhi- 
bitors of Pigeons, who brought his birds on the morning of the Show, 
but in accordance with the rule in the schedule, and in justice to 
other exhibitors, they were not allowed to compete, and in consequence 
several of the pens were empty. 

In the Carrier class Mr. Yardley won with two good pairs of Dun 
and Black respectively, a pen of Blacks being highly commended. 
The first-prize Pouters were Blue-pied, correct in all points, and the 
cup for the best pen in the Show was awarded to them. In Almond 
‘Tumblers the competition was keen, the second-prize pair only losing 
in the head of the hen, which was not as good in the stop. The two 
winning pairs of Jacobins were Reds of great merit, but no others 
were worthy of position. The Fantails were very good, the second- 
prize pair being Squeakers. In the Variety class a handsome pair of 
Nuns shown by Mr. Watts, of Birmingham, were disqualified, the 
bottom of the marking on the throat and the base of the crest being 
trimmed to a degree in both birds. 

The Cage Birds were shown in a shed at the other end of the field, 
and were quite comfortably housed. The most noteworthy were the 
first-prize Buff Belgians and an evenly-marked Yorkshire Canary. 
The Goldfinches were not nearly so good as last year, although there 
were many entries. There were also plenty of Linnets, the first-prize 
bird being perfect, and perhaps the most perfect bird of that variety 
we ever saw in captivity. This bird seems to be fed entirely upon 
dinseed, which may have something to do with his appearance. In the 
Variety class the first prize was taken by a handsome Grass Parakeet, 
eieecond by a Cinnamon Canary, and the third by a dark Goldfinch 

ule. 

Among the Lop-eared Rabbits, Mr. Gravil won both prizes for 
bucks, the first with a promising young Blue and White buck, and the 
second with a Yellow and White. The former, though very young, 
measured 214 inches in length of ear, and 4§ inches in width. In does, 
the first wasya grand Grey Rabbit, well developed in all points, and 
very large, and the second Fawn and White, the former 21}, and the 
datter 21 inches in length. The Himalayan and Silver-Grey classes 
were well supported, and the specimens good. 


Spanisn —l, T. C. & E. Newbitt, Epworth. 2,J. Thresh, Bradford. 

Dorxines.—l, R. W. Richardson, Meaux Abbey, Beverley. 2, W. H. Robson, 
North Reston. 

Game. -Black-breasted and other Reds—1 and Cup, C. Chaloner, Whitwell, 
Chesterfield. 2,J. Hodgson. he, C. Chaloner; J. C.Coupe, Doncaster. D.uck- 
wings, and any other variety. —1, F. Sayles & R. Bentley, Crowle. 2, S. 
Matthew, Stowmarket. he. C. Chaloner. Any Variety.—Cock.—l, C. Chaloner. 
2, B. Aykroyd, Eccleshill, Leeds. 

Brigmas (Light or Dark).—l, H. Beldon, Goitstock. 2, J. Watts, King’s 
Heath, Birmingham. he, W. Whiteley, Sheffield. c, Dr. Holmes, Whitecotes, 


Chesterfield. 
Cocurys.—1, W. A. Burnell, Southwell, Notts. 2, J. White, Whiteley, Nether- 
2, Ashton & Booth, 


ton. he, J. Watts. c. W. Topham, Sheffield. 
Hamerrens.—Gold or silver-spangled.—1, H. Beldon. 
Mottram. he, R. D. Borne, Boston; S. & R. Ashton, Mottram; G. Holmes, 
Driffield. Gold or Silver-pencilled—1 and 2, H. Beldon. he, G. Holmes 
Gaus Banrams.—Black-breasted and other Reds—1 and 2, T. C. & B. New- 
pitt. he, F. Sayles & R. Bentley; J. R. Robinson, Sunderland ; T. Palsthorpe, 
Carlton, Pontetract. Any othsr Variety—1l, T. C.& E. Newbitt. 2,8. Hudson, 


Hull (Duckwing). he, C. Chaloner; T. C. & E. Newbitt. c, Bellingham and 
Gill, Burnley; G. S. R. Cayless, Grantham. 

Bantams.—Black or White.—l, S. & R. Ashton (Black). 2, H. Beldon (White). 
he, Mrs. J. M. Procter, Hull (Black); S. & R. Ashton; Hudson & Burnip, Ep- 
worth (Black). Any other Variety.—1, H. Beldon. 2, J. Watts (Sebright). 
he, W. Harvey, Sheffield (Silver-lace). 

ANY OTHER Vanrety.—l, H. Beldon (Créve-Crurs). 2,Mrs. J. Cross, Appleby 
Vicarage, Brigg (Créve- 1s). Cock.—l, W. Harvey. 2, W. A. Burnell. he, Mrs. 
J. Cross; H. Beldon. Hen.—1,J. Thresh. 2, H. Beldon. vhe,J. Powell, Brad- 
ford. hc, S.& R. Ashton; H. Beldon; J.J. Malden; W. Harvey. 

Ducks.—Rowen.—1 and 2, J. White. Aylesbury.—ti, J. Williams, Wath-on- 
Dearne. 2, Mrs. Z. Maw. Epworth. Any other Variety—1, W. Binns, Pudsey. 
2, R. W. Richardson (Mandarin). 

SELLING CxAss.—l, J. Powell. 2, R. Dawson, Beverley (Buff Cochins). 

PIGEONS. 

Canrtens.—l and 2, H. Yardley, Birmingham. he, W. Campey, Beverley. 

Pourrrs.—1 and Cup, W. Harvey. 2, R. P. Moon, Driffield. he, H. Yardley; 
R. P. Moon 

TompieRs.—dAlmond.—l, W. Harvey. 2, J. Ford, Monkwell St. London. 
he, H. Yardley: J. Ford. Any other Variety.—l, J. Ford. 

Jacopins.—l and 2, T.C & E. Newbitt. 

Fantaiis.—l, H. Yardley. 2, J. F. Loversidze, Newark. 

Torpirs—), Hudson & Burnip. 2, H. Lawson. he, A. A. Vander-Meersch, 
Tooting. 

TRUMPETERS —1, W. Harvey. 

Bares.—1, W. Harvey. 2, H. Yardley. E 
aE W. Harvey. 2, J. W. Collinson, Halifax. he, T. C. & E. 

ewbitt. 

ANY OTHER Varrety.—l, W. Harvey. 2. H. Yardley. 3, R. W. Richardson 
(Owls). he, J. Watts (Norwegians); Mrs. J. Cross; M. Ord, Ferry Hill (Sultans) ; 
C. W. Lawson, Pimlico (Swallows and Magpies). Disqualified, Mr. James 
Watts (Nuns). 

SELLING CLass.—l and 2, J. E. Crofts (Magpies and Owls). he, H. Yardley ; 


W. Harvey. 
CAGE BIRDS. 

Canantns.—Yellow.—1, J. Ross, Sheffield. 2, H. N. Fosbrooke, Hatfield, Don- 
caster. Bufi—i,J.Ro s. 2, B.A. Isle, Epworth. Green or Variegated.—1, J. 
J. S. Clarke, Hatfield, Doncaster. 2, H. N. Fosbrooke. he, J. J.S, Clarke ; ele 
J.Tomkinson. Gold or Silver-spangled L .—1, A. Lewis, Hull. 2,J. Ross. 
he, J.J. S, Clarke. 

Go.princr.—l, C. Gunnie, Hatfield, Doncaster. 2,H. N. Fosbrooke. he, R. 
Grayil; J. Richardson. e¢, C. Slight; G. Yates & J. Lambert; R. Bramhill, 
pwonet; G. Fawcett. 


he, H. Cawood, Thorne. 


ET.—l, Miss R. H. Beckett. 2, G. Yates & J. Lambert, Thorne. Te, B. 
Be t, Epworth; W. Balmforth, Epworth; T. Kirk, Epworth. ¢, Miss A. 
Marshall, Epworth. 


ANY OTHER Vantety.—l, Miss Allen, Epworth. 2, C. Gunnie (Cinnamon). 


3, G. Lindley, Epworth. c, E. Cutts, Thorne (Goldfinch Mule); Miss Clark 
(Waved Parrot). 
RABBITS. 

Lop-rarep.—Buck.—1 and 2, C. Gravil, jun., Thorne. he, P. Ashton, Drypool, 
Hull. Doe.—1 and he, C. Gravil, jun. 2,J.J.5. Clarke 

Himavayan.—l, Dr. Horsfal!, Pontefract 2,J. Boyle, jun., Blackburn. he, J. 
Butterworth, Lower Side, Rochdale (2). ¢,S.G. Hudson (2). 

Sinven-Grey.—l, R. H. Glew, S:. John’s, Wakefield. 2,8. G. Hudson. he, J. 


Boyle, jun.; C. Gravil, jun. c, A. Chapman, Crowle (2); S. G. Hudson; Dr. 
Horsfall. 

Jupeus :—Poultry and Pigeons: Mr. H. Hutton and Mr. J. Douglas. 
Cage Birds: Mr. EB. Hutton. Rabbits: Mr. E, Hutton and Mr. J. 
Spinks. 


BEE-KEEPING FOR COTTAGERS. 


Havrne laboured hard amongst cottagers for more than thirty 
years in order to promote a proper aud profitable system of bee 
culture, I have read the article of ‘‘ W. J., Shepherdswell,” with 
much interest, but in the last paragraph but one I was much 
surprised to find ‘‘ brimstone torches” recommended. Now, 
I must confess my astonishment at this in these days of im- 
provement in bee culture. 

Having worked hard nearly all my life to preserve the bees, 
ZT am inclined to think that ‘‘ W. J.” has ‘‘advanced one step 
backwards ;’? and I was the more surprised at this in conse- 
quence of my being aware that Mr. Pettitt, of Dover (within 
twenty minutes of Shepherdswell by rail), makes it his practice 
in the autumn to pay personal visits to cottagers for the pur- 
pose of taking their bees, leaving them all the honey which he 
cuts out of the hive, without having recourse to brimstone 
torches or any other kind of fumigation; and, further, Mr. 
Pettitt performed his operations upon some twenty stocks in 
villages adjoining Shepherdswell last autumn, and took the 
bees from that station per rail to Dover. The cottagers upon 
whose bees Mr. Pettitt operated were so fully satisfied with the 
results that they one and all prefer the abandonment of the 
brimstone pit, and I can only express my surprise that ‘‘ brim- 
stone torches”’ should be recommended from—SHEPHERDSWELL, 


THE MANNERS AND CUSTOMS OF BEES. 


Mr. A. R. Wauace, reviewing in Nature a new book upon 
bees, observes—An interesting experiment is detailed, proving 
that the business of a hive may go on a long time with perfect 
vegularity without the presence of a queen. On the 13th of: 
June a swarm was put into a mirror hive. On the 1st of July, 
while the queen was laying drone eggs, she was taken away, 
yet the bees showed no agitation, but continued their work as 
usual. They formed several royal cells, and examined them 
continually to see if eggs had been deposited in them. All 
through the summer work went on as usual, honey being plen- 
tifully stored; but no attempt was made to raise a queen by 
artificial food, nor were the drones massacred. By the middle 


346 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ May 11, 1871 


of November all the drones had died, and the working bees 
then began to diminish, and by the 31st of December they had 
also died. As all the workers had been born before the 25th 
of July, this gives about six months, or nct much less, for the 
duration of their lives. The fortifications and barricades of 
the bees against the incursions of the Death’r-head moth are 
said to be due to reason rather than to instinct, because it has 
been observed that they do not commence these fortifications 
on a first attack of the Sphinx, nor until they have been robbed 
of nearly their whole stock of honey. ‘This is a case in which 
the insect is taught by experience, and which admits, in all 
its particulars, of a direct comparison with human reason and 
contrivance. A colony that had been thus attacked one year, 
and was tardy in its defensive operations, having derived in- 
struction from the past, constructed fresh ramparts speedily 
on the re-appearance of the Sphinx three years afterwards, and 
thus guarded itself from an impending danger. Since the lives 
of the working bees do not extend beyond six or seven months, 
it is evident that the information of the colony above referred 
to must have been traditional, or else derived from a queen 
which had reigned over them three years previously.” This 
“tradition” through some six or seven generations seems 
highly improbable, and that the knowledge of how to act was 
derived from a queen not less so. Do not the facts rather 
indicate that bees differ considerably in intellectual capacity, 
and that some hives contain directing bees more capable of 
acting promptly on the defensive than others? 


Harty Swarus.—May 5th I hived a very large swarm of beer, 
and I am told it is unnsually early. It is said to be one of the 
largest of swarms. It came from an early swarm of last year, 
and out of the old-fashioned straw hive-—THomas ReEcorp, 
Hatfield House, Herts. 


Mr Porntine, brewer, at this place, had a fine swarm on 
May 5th, and on the 7th my employer had also a very fine 
swarm.—G. L. Drummonp, Neston, Bath. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Ducks’ Eccs not Hatcuine (J. S. M.).—You do not say whether the 
Ducks’ eggs are put under a hen, or whether the Ducks sit themselves 
If they are put cnder hens, the cause of failure is that they are too dry 
The thing explains itself. Ina state of nature the Duck leaves the nest 
to feed, and whether her food be on land or water, she enjoys a swim 
before she returns to the nest. Her breast is thoroughly wet, and in 
that state she sits on her eggs. Where the young fail to emerge from the 
shell, it is because the eggs have been kept too dry. Whether put under 
hens or Ducks, the eggs should be wetted every day when the expectant 
parent is off the nest. The water in which the eggs are put should be 
just warm enough to communicate warmth through the shells. These 
jJatter are never too thick, and they become thinner while the bird sits. 
It is the inner lining membrane that hardens from being kept too dry, 
and the birds lack strength to get through it. If a hen sits, wet the eggs 
daily ; if a Duck, tnen allow her access to water when she is off, and she 
will do it herself. 

CoLovuR oF GOLDEN-SPANGLED HampBurGH Cock (WM. R. F.).—Have 
patience, and the birds will pair. The Golden-spangled Hamburgh cock 
should have rich chestnut plumage, the hackle and saddle clouded with 
black, the tail black, and the breast brown and black splashed. The deaf 
ear should be faultlessly white, and the comb well spiked, with a pike 
behind. It should not overhang the eyes or nostrils, and it should be 
firmly fixed on the head. Game fowls and Bantams may run together 
without fear of mixing. 

BrawMas out oF ConpiTIoN (Subscriber).—Your Brahmas are out of 
condition. You should have told us in what manner they are fed. Feed 
them on slacked ground oats morning and evening. Give them Indian 
corn at mid-day. Let them have some bread soaked in strong beer. 
If that do not answer, give them Baily’s pills. 

WaARFEDALE SHow.—We are informed that Miss Beresford Peirse was 
awarded the second prize for Brahmas at the above-named Show. We 
did not receive the letter mentioned. 

MarxING CHICKENS (Oxoniensis You can only adopt the system of 

marking by narrow strips of list if you wish to have a mark that is 
Plainly and easily distinguishable. It is sometimes attended with 
damage to the feathering of the legs. To do the least possible hurt you 
must have the list wider on one side than the other, and let the wide side 
be on the inner part of the leg. If you choose bright colours they are 
easily distinguishable, as white, black, red, and blue. There is no 
other method of marking that is to be readily seen without catching the 
bird. When the birds can be caught, the wing feathers may be cut in 
each, denoting age by the order of the feather—1, 2, 3, and so on. 
. CHILLED EG6s (EZ. D).—It is not at all ri markable that eggs sat upon 
for seyen days only, and left by the hen for four honrs, were not injured, 
but produced chickens. If they had been near to hatching, and had 
been chilled, this would probably haye been fatal. 

Cavurion.—A fortnight ago I advertised in your Journala Golden Po- 
land cock and ten hens for sale, at 10s.each. A few days afterwards I 
received an application from 26, Downing Street, Everton, Liverpool, with 
the wish that the fowls miglt b2 as good as represented, and a promise 
to send a post-office order on receipt of fowls. I wrote to send cash 
before I sent the fowls. I received no answer, and I am informet 
that I had exercised a wise discretion, as there is no such name in the 
Liverpool Directory as the one given, and no such street.—G. W. Boorupy. 


Youne Turners (4. L. B.).—Itis not true. They are crammed when 
it is wished to make them very large and fat. 

D1sRRH@A IN Fowns (A. Z.).—Feed on ground oats for your fowls. 
While the diarrhcea is very troublesome you may add some chalk, and 
mix the whole with cold water. Lettuce stalks and lettuces that are gone 
to seed are also good. We do not like wheat for food, nor Indian corn 
except asa change. 

CaRBOLATE OF Lime (Constant Reader).—It is a poison; do not put it 
into your Canary’s nest. Keep everything clean—cage, perches, nest 
box, &e., and give free ventilation. Nothing else is necessary to check 
parasites. 

Loss oF BEES (Mirator)Your bees may have perished from the 
effects of over-kindness, or rather from having been fed “ not wisely but. 
too well”—that is, in too open a manner. From the fact of their haying 
carried in pollen freely, it would seem that they were healthy, and had a 
productive queen at their head during the early part of the present year. 
Your feeding may have been too openly carried on, and may have attracted 
first a few stray robbers,and then a general onslaught. Or they may 
really have died from starvation. Feeding twice a-week induces breed- 
ing; brood requires a considerable quantity of food. The bees may have 
had no available store during the cold weather to supply this need and te 
sustain the necessary amount of internal heat, and so may have suc- 
cumbed. Examine the central part of the combs, and if you find the 
cells occupied by the dead bodies of the adult workers, you may be sure 
that they died of starvation or cold, or both combined. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN SqQuARE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Dare. | 9 A.M. In THE Day. 
| | ; | Radiation a 
7 Hygrome- Paes |Shade ‘fem-| Tempera- | & 
un fern | Direes|FewD,| veratare. | “tare | a 
May. —_——] Wind. | at 1£t. In | On 
Dry. | Wet. Max. | Min.| sun. | grass 
| | —_|—— 
deg. | deg deg. | deg. | deg.| deg.| deg.| In. 
We. 3} | 56.8 | 49.2 Ss. 49.0 65.8 | 37.0 |103.4 | 848 | 0.091 
Th. 4 48.5 | 43.3 Ww. 49.2 | 577 | 37.9 |1170 | 34.7 = 
Fri. 5 52.4 | 45.9 N. 48.5 | 66.8 | 36.1 |112.4 | 342 = 
Sat. 6 61.0 | 556] 4B. 50.9 | 72.8 | 488 |121.0 | 45.8 | — 
Sun. 7 | 543 | 48.0] S.B. | 523 | 63.0 | 42.0 |1066 | 41.2 | — 
Mo. 8 59.3 | 52.0 | N.W. 52.3 748 | 87.8 |116.4 | 87.8 | 0.364 
Tass 19)i} 48.7 43.7 N.E. 53.4 | 54.1 | 43.3 |105.1 | 41.8 | 0.020 
Means 544 | 48.2 50.8 | 65.0 | 40.4 |112.6 | 88.6 | 0475 
y 4 


REMARKS. 

8rd.—_Fine morning, dull afternoon, rain between 6 and 7 P.M, very 
bright and fine afterwards. 

4th.—Cold in early morning, fine day. 

5th.—Almost a frost in morning, fine, clear, sunny day. 

6th.—Much warmer, cloudy in afternoon, and rather oppressive, tem- 
perature rising above 70°, for the first time this year. 

7th.—_Warm, fine, and sunny. 

8th.—Fine bright morning, very warm and oppressive in afternoon. At 
3.22 p.m, thunder was heard from a cloud advancing from the N. ;. 
between 8.30 and 4.0 p.m., the storm was rather heavy, the darkness 
being considerable, and the thunder almost continuous. The totak 
amount of rain was rather small for such a storm, but it fell with 
great rapidity, a quarter of an inch falling in eight minutes and eight 

9th.—Showery in morning, fine afterwards.—G. J. Syatons. [seconds. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—May 10. 


THe current rates have been maintained,and supplies generally are 
sufficient for the wants of the trade. Business is better, and as the Lon- 
don season is commencing we may hope for further improvement. A 
large quantity of old Potatoes, both Regents and Flukes, continue on 
hand, and heavy arrivals of new ones are reported. Continental imports 
comprise salading, Carrots, Turnips, and Asparagus. 


FRUIT. 

s.d. s. d s.d. s dad 
Apples............3 Sieve 1 6 to3 0 | Mulberries............lb. 0 Oto0 0 
Apricots .-doz. 0 0 O 0} Nectarines.. -- doz.15 0 80 0 
Cherries... - 0 0 O 0} Oranges... e100 60 10 oO 
Chestnuts. 0 0 O G/| Peaches.. doz.15 0 36 0 
Currants.. 0 0 O 0} Pears, kite doz. 0 00 
Black BO. OW) dessert doz 00 O09 
Figs .... .10 0 2) 0} Pine Apple: -lb. 6 0 10 0 
Filberts Se OO | Reser sieve 00 00 
Cobs 20 2 6) Quince doz. 00 00 
Gooseberri 0 8 1 O| Raspberr: lb 00 O00 
Grapes, Hoth 8 0 18 Q| Strawberri -.0Z. 0 (6 1 40. 
Lemons. 6 0 10 0| Walnuts ushel 10 0 16 0 
Melons.. 60 RO -P10 10 20 

VEGETABLES. 
s.d. 8. d| 8.0. 8. ad 
- £4 Oto 6 0) Leeks 0 4to0 6 
40 8 0} 1.0 2,0 
20 3 0{ 10 26 
00 00} 02 00 
7 20 8 0 76 100 
OS eran: 00 00 
00 00 80 60 
Bat bet io yet) 09 10 
00 00 80 80 
0s 10 20 40 
80 8 0 8.10) 4.0: 
tet be 4) 06310 
80 60 0.4) 810 
OGG aie 00 00 
0 0 O 0} Sea-kale.. basket 0 0 00 
- 2 0 O Oj Shallots.. cous AD. 50), 6 Rae 
0 8 O oO} Spinach.. bushel 2 6 40 
0 8 O 0} Tomatoes - doz 00 O00 
be . 0 8 0 O} Tarnips .......... bunch 09 JI 6 
Horseradish ..., bundle 8 0 6 01! Vegetable Marrows.,doz, 0 0 0 0 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


May 18, 1871. ] 347 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
1 I =e 
WES | ENG Average Tempera: || Rainn | sun. |) sua ||aroon! |tareont |iaroons clocks |e Day, 
f f a 7 s S s mig 4 x after | of 
Month Week.| MAY 18—24, 1871. ture near London. \3 years.| Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets Age. | Sane leyene 
Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. | m. h.| m. h.|m. b.| mm. hb. Days. | m. 8. 
18 | TH | Ascension Day. 66.2 | 422 | 542 | 17 | Gaf4| 47af7 | Safd | 44af6 | 28 | 3 50 | 188 
19 | F | 67.0 | 42.7 | 549 14 4/48 7/295 4/51 7] @ 3 48 | 139 
20 |S Crystal Palace Show. 66.9 | 48.4 | 55.2 20 Ae AC4OF OTp eS lens CbGe eS 1 | 8 45] 140 
21 SUN | 1 SuNDAY AFTER ASCENSION. 66.3 44.7 | 55.5 | 19 SA A5O ToS 5s N57 Out 2 | 8 42) 141 
22 | M_ | Anniversary Meeting of the Royal Geogra- | 65.4 | 42.4 | 53.9 19 2 4/52 7/59 5/53 10) 38 | 8 38) 142 
23 Tu [ phical Society, 8 30 p.m. | 67.8 | 43.6 | 55.5 | 15 0 4/53 7/44 6 alee 4 | 8 34) 143 
24 1 W QUEEN Victorra Born, 1819. Anniversary | 67.4 | 48.0 | 55.2 | 12 59° 38) 55 7 | 39 7 | morn. 5 | 3 29) 144 
[Meeting of Linnean Society, 3 p.m. | | | | | 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 66.6°, and its night tem- 
perature 43.1%. The greatest heat was 89°, on the 22nd, 1847; and the lowest cold 25°, on the 23rd and 24th, 1867. The greatest fall of 
Tain was 0.76 inch. . 


OUR FIRST LANDSCAPE GARDENER. 
LSS 
= \wg7 i was a painter, an architect, and the father 

NY of modern gardening. In the first character 
he was below mediocrity ; in the second, he 
was a restorer of the science; in the last, 
an original, and the inventor of an art 
that realises painting and improves nature. 
Mahomet imagined an elysium, but Kent 
created many.’ So wrote Horace Walpole 
of WitraM Kent, his contemporary, but we 
know full well that Walpole’s judgment 
failed in controlling his love of superlatives, and we have 
from time to time inquired for and noted down other testi- 
monies. We will now reduce these to a somewhat regular 
and connected order. 

If, as we sometimes think, there are names that never 
could be ennobled, then such a name is Cant. Certain is 
it that in 1685 it was borne by a very humble family at 
Bridlington, in Yorkshire, in which year and place, and 
of which family the subject of our notes was born. We 
once knew a family who sought by adding an e final to 
form a little eddy of themselves in the flood of Smiths, 
but a bolder course was adopted by William Cant; he 
assumed that Cant was a contraction of Cantium, implying 
that his ancestors were of the Roman period, so he trans- 
lated it and passed through life as Witttam Kent 

He was apprenticed to a coach painter at Hull, and 
though he soon showed superior abilities as a draughtsman, 
yet the colouring of his first tuition abided with him, and 
to the last was so offensive that though Sir Robert Wal- 
pole allowed him to employ his pencil on ceilings and 
staircase walls at Houghton, he only permitted him to 
draw and shade. The severest criticiser of his colouring 
was Hogarth, and we remembered this when we visited 
Kent's place of sepulture at Chiswick, for Hogarth is his 
near neighbour in death, resting in the adjoining church- 
yard, and Garrick’s verse is not inapplicable to each— 

“TE gentus fire thee, reader, stay ; 
If nature touch thee, drop a tear; 
Tf neither move thee, turn away, 
For Hogarth’s honoured dust lies here.” 

It is said to be a characteristic of genius to rise superior 
to the laws and rules which duller minds submit to, and 
Kent early exhibited this characteristic by escaping with- 
out permission from his apprenticeship, and proceeding 
to London. That he had shown artistic ability has the 
strong evidence that some gentlemen of his native county 
raised a sum sufficient to pay his expenses to Rome, and 
thither he proceeded in 1710. That his friends were not 
deceived is shown by his obtaining, after two years’ study 
under Cavalier Luti, a prize for drawing in the Academy of 
St. Luke, and two medals from the Pope. These honours, 
however, did not add to his resources, and he was only 
extricated from difficulties by the liberality of Sir William 
Wentworth and the Earl of Burlington, of whom the last- 
named became his munificent patron, and with whom he 


years subsequently, he resided with the Earl. That noble- 
man, says Walpole, who knew them both, “ discovered the 
rich vein of genius that had been hid from the artist him- 
self” —that vein of genius was of architecture and garden 
designing ; yet there was a fashion to employ him in all 
kinds of ornamental work, and, says Walpole— 

“ Kent's style predominated authoritatively during his life; and his 
oracle was so much consulted by all who atfected taste, that nothing 
was thought compleat without his assistance. He was not only con- 
sulted for furniture, as frames of pictures, glasses, tables, chairs, &c., 
but for plate, for a barge, for a cradle. And so impetuous was fashion, 
that two great ladies prevailed on him to make designs for their birth- 
day gowns. The one he dressed in a petticoat decorated with columns 
of the five orders : the other like a bronze, in a copper-coloured sattin 
with ornaments of gold.” 

But as an architect his taste was with more justice 
admired, and many specimens as evidence remain besides 
Holkham, which he considered his masterpiece. Con- 
nected with architecture is his only published work. In 
this he was assisted by the Earl of Burlington. It ap- 
peared first in 1727, and is entitled ‘‘ The Designs of Inigo 
Jones, with some Additions.” His professional success 
was aided by his genial humour, polished probably by 
continued intercourse with the leaders of high society. 
He is frequently mentioned as being in that high circle, 
and Walpole, in a letter to Sir Horace Mann, relates that 
“Lady Townsend told him she was forced to have an issue 
on one side of her head for her eyes, and that Kent advised 
her to have another on the other side for symmetry!” _ 

As a designer and planter of gardens and extensive 
pleasure grounds he is entitled to our notice in these 
columns. In our notes relative to Mr. George London 
we quoted Switzer’s opinion that he was not so excelling 
as a garden designer as he was as a_horticulturist. 
Switzer repeats this estimate of Mr. London more than 
once, and, as an illustration, tells that at Castle Howard 
Mr. London wished to bave a star-form plantation, but 
the Earl of Carlisle would not consent; and it became so 
evident that it would have spoiled the effect of the wood, 
that it was a proverb in his time and at the place, “ York 
against London.” It is remarkable, but not unusual, that 
the critic was not superior to him he flagellated, for Switzer, 
in his “ Icnographia,” has published numerous designs of 
pleasure gardens which no ingenuity could surpass in 
mathematical formality and sameness. 

‘No pleasing intricacies intervene 
No artful wildness to perplex the scene ; 
Grove nods at grove, each alley has a brother, 
And half the platform just reflects the other.” 

We will now briefly show how Kent excelled his two 
immediate predecessors and partly contemporaries. 

Walpole thus sketches the kind of garden they con- 
structed :— 

“At lady Orford’s, at Piddletown, in Dorsetshire, there was, when 
my brother married, a double inclosure of thirteen gardens, each I 
suppese not much above an hundred yards square, with an enfilade of 
correspondent gates; and before you arrived at these, you passed a 
narrow gut between two stone terrasses, that rose above your head, and 
which were crowned by a line of pyramidal Yews. A bowlinug-green 


returned to England in 1719. Kent was then in his thirty- 
fourth year, and from that time until his death, thirty | 
No. 529.—Vou. XX., New Sznies. 


was all the lawn admitted in those times, a circular lake the extent of 
magnificence. : 
“Yet though these and such preposterous inconyeniencies prevailed 
No. 1181.—Vou. XLY., OLp Series. 


318 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ May 18, 1871. 


ees 


from age to age, good sense in this country had perceived the want of 
something at once more grand and more natural. 

‘*‘ At that moment appeared /vent, painter enough to taste the charms 
of landscape, bold and opinionative enough to dare and to dictate, and 
born with a genius to strike out a great system from the twilight of 
imperfect essays. He leaped the fence, and saw that all nature was a 
garden. He felt the delicious contrast of hill and valley changing im- 
perceptibly into each other, tasted the beauty of the gentle swell, or 
concave scoop, and remarked how loose groves crowned an easy emi- 
nence with happy ornament, and while they called in the distant view 
between their graceful stems, removed and extended the perspective 
by delusive comparison. 

“Thus the pencil of his imagination bestowed all the arts of land- 
scape on the scenes he handled. The great principles on which he 
worked were perspective, and light and shade. Groupes of trees broke 
too uniform or too extensive a lawn; evergreens and woods were 
opposed to the glare of the champain, and where the view was less 
fortunate, or so much exposed as to be beheld at once, he blotted out 
some parts by thick shades, to divide it into variety, or to make the 
richest scene more enchanting by reserving it to a farther advance of 
the spectator’s step. Thus selecting favourite objects, and veiling de- 
formities by screens of plantation; sometimes allowing the rudest 
waste to add its soil to the richest theatre, he realised the compositions 
of the greatest masters in painting. Where objects were wanting to 
animate his horizon, his taste as an architect could bestow immediate 
termination. His buildings, his seats, his temples, were more the 
works of his pencil than of his compasses. We owe the restoration of 
Greece and the diffusion of architecture to his skill in iandscape. 

‘But of all the beauties he added to the face of this beautiful 
country, none surpassed his management of water. Adieu to canals, 
circular basons, and cascades tumbling down marble steps, that last 
absurd magnificence of Italian and French villas. The forced ele- 
vation of cataracts was no more. The gentle stream was taught to 
serpentise seemingly at its pleasure, and where discontinued by dif- 
ferent levels, its course appeared to be concealed by thickets properly 
interspersed, and glittered again at a distance where it might be sup- 
posed naturally to arrive. Its borders were smoothed, but preserved 
their waving irregularity. A few trees scattered here and there on its 
edges sprinkled the tame bank that accompanied its meanders; and 
when it disappeared among the hills, shades desvending from the 
heights leaned towards its progress, and framed the distant point of 
light under which it was lost, as it turned aside to either hand of the 
blue horizon. 

“Thus dealing in none but the colours of nature, and catching its 
most favourable features, men saw a new creation opening before their 
eyes. The living landscape was chastened or polished, not transformed. 
Freedom was given to the forms of trees; they extended their branches 
unrestricted, and where any eminent Oak, or master Beech had escaped 
maiming and survived the forest, bush and bramble was removed, and 
all its honours were restored to distinguish and shade the plain. Where 
the united plumage of an ancient wood extended wide its undulating 
canopy, and stood venerable in its darkness, Kent thinned the fore- 
most ranks, and left but so many detached and scattered trees, as 
softened the approach of gloom, and blended a chequered light with 
the thus lengthened shadows of the remaining columns.” 


The grounds he created about a residence, now especially 
‘interesting, are thus described by Whateley, another con- 
temporary :— 

“A regular plantation has a degree of beauty ; but it gives no satis- 
faction, because we know that the same number of trees might be 
more beautifully arranged. A disposition, however, in which the lines 
only are broken, without varying the distances, is less natural than 
any; for though we cannot find strait lines in a forest, we are habitu- 
ated to them in the hedgerows of fields; but neither in wild nor in 
cultivated nature do we ever see trees equidistant from each other: 
that regularity belongs to art alone. The distances, therefore, should 
be strikingly different ; the trees should gather into groupes, or stand 
in various irregular lines, and describe several figures: the intervals 
between them should be contrasted both in shape and in dimensions: 
a large space should in some places be quite open; in others the trees 
should be so close together, as hardly to leave a passage between them; 
and in others as far apart as the connection will allow. In the forms 
and the varieties of these groupes, these lines, and these openings, 
principally consists the interior beauty of a grove. 

“The force of them is most strongly iHustrated at Claremont ;* 
where the walk to the cottage, though destitute of many natural ad- 
vantages, and eminent for none; though it commands no prospect; 
though the water below it is a trifling pond; though it has nothing, in 
short, but inequality of ground to recommend it; is yet the finest 
part of the garden: for a groye is there planted in a gently curved 
direction, all along the side of a hill, and on the edge of a wood, which 
vises above it. Large recesses break it into several clumps, which 
hang down the declivity ; some of them approaching, but none reach- 
ing quite to the bottom. These recosses are so deep as to form great 
openings in the midst of the grove; they penetrate almost to the 
covert: but the elumps being all equally suspended from the wood; 
and a line of open plantation, though sometimes narrow, running con- 
stantly along the top; a continuation of grove is preserved, and the 


* Near Esher, in Surrey. 


connection between the parts is never broken. Even a groupe, which 
near one of the extremities stands out quite detached, is still in stile 
so familiar to the rest, as not to lose all relation. Each of these 


| clamps is composed of several others still more intimately united: 


each is full of groupes, sometimes of no more than two trees ; some- 
times of four or five; and now and then in larger clusters: an irregular 
waving line, issuing from some little croud, loses itself in the next; 
or a few scattered trees drop in a more distant succession from the one 
to the other. The intervals, winding here like a glade, and widening 
there into broader openings, differ in extent, in figure, and direction ; 
but all the groupes, the lines, and the intervals, are collected together 
into large general clumps, each of which is at the same time both 
compact and free, identical and various. The whole isa place wherein 
to tarry with secure delight, or saunter with perpetual amusement.” 

We might add panegyrics from many more competent antho- 
rities, such as both the Masons, Coventry, and others, but we 
have quoted sufficiently. 

In addition to his extensive practice as an architect and 
landscape gardener, he held several public appointments ; he 
was master carpenter, architect, keeper of the pictures, and 
principal painter to the Crown. He was also commissioner of 
the Board of Works. He had a pension of £100 for his 
alterations at Kensington Palace, raising his receipts from 
public appointments to £600 annually. He was indebted for 
these appointments to the patronage of the Dukes of Grafton 
and Newcastle, the Earl of Burlington, and Mr. Pelham; to all 
of whom and others who had befriended him he bequeathed 
tokens of gratitude. We reed particularise but two of these, 
and they shall be named in his own words— To the Earl of 
Burlington my two yellow marble vases with Vine leaves.” 
Pope met Kent at the Harl of Burlington’s, and more than 
once in his poems spoke favourably of his taste. When men- 
tioning Esher he tells that there 


“ Kent and Nature vied for Pelham’s love.” 


The landscape gardener felt and did not forget the poet's 
courtesy, as is thus testified‘ To Mr. Alexander Pope Raphael’s 
head busto, and the wooden terms, and the alabaster vase.” 
Hogarth was the neighbour of the Earl of Burlington and 
Kent, for he had a house at Chiswick, still remaining. He 
resented their and Mr. Pope’s neglect by publishing ‘‘ The Man 
of Taste.” In this picture the gate of Burlington House, de- 
signed by Kent, is represented as being whitewashed by Pope, 
who in the act bespatters the ecaeh of the Duke of Chandos. 
This picture was the frontispiece of a satire on Pope’s Epistle 
to the Earl, and was soon suppressed, owing, probably, toa 
threatened prosecution, for on one of the very few copies that 
survive is an endorsement by an attorney that in the presence 
of a witness he had purchased it of a bookseller, who acknow- 
ledged he had it direct from the printer. 

To various of the Boyles, Arundels, and Pelhams Kent be- 
queathed like remembrances, and lastly, one to the Duke of 
Grafton, who was one of his most trusting patrons. Walpole 
telling Sir Horace Mann of his visit to the Duke’s residence, 
Euston Hall, observed, ‘‘ It is one of the most admired seats in 
England—in my opinion, because Kent has a most absolute 
disposition of it. Kent is now so fashionable, that, like Addi- 
son’s Liberty, he 

‘Can make bleak rocks and barren mountains smile.’ 


I believe the Duke wishes he could make them green, too.” — 

In the early spring of 1748, Kent was attacked by an in- 
flammation which terminated in mortification of the bowels. 
He died on the 20th of April, and evidence oi his still strong 
will, kindly nature, and unclouded reason appears 1n his signa- 
ture two days previously to a codicil, bestowing various tokens 
of remembrance. The signa- 
ture is misty and tremu- 
lous, very different from his 
usual neat, firm autograph of ’ 
which this is a fac-simile :— . 

In accordance with the wish expressed in the opening cen- 
tences of his will, he was buried in the Earl of Burlington’s vault 
in Chiswick Church. Speedy interment was needful, and speedy 
proof of the will followed, for it was registered on the 25th of 
April. ‘‘His fortune,” says Walpole, ‘‘ which with pictures 
and books, amounted to about £10,000, he divided between his 
relations and an actress with whom he had long lived in par- 
ticular friendship.’ So worded it might be concluded that he 
left her half his fortune, but it was not so. The actress is 
described in his will as ‘Elizabeth Butler, of St. Paul’s, 
Covent Garden,” to whom he bequeathed £600, and to her two 
children, whom he leniently appreciated as his own, £300 each, 
to be raised by sale of some of his South-Sea stock, He be- 


a 


May 18, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


349 


queathed to his sister, Esther Pearson, an annuity of £50 out 
of the rent of his house in Saville Street. To his servant and 
others he left various small legacies and rings, but the larger 
portion of his property evidently was divided among his 
nephews and nieces, the Pearsons, whom he made his residuary 
legatees. 

There are four engraved portraits of Kent, the best being by 
Rayenet, from a painting by Aikman. They are his only me- 
morials, for not one of his many patrons, nor one of those 
whom he enriched, erected even a tablet of remembrance. We 
sought in vain even for the vault in which he was deposited. 


THE CLUSTER arms CRITTENDEN 
FRUIT CULTURE. 

In the pages of the Journal, if-I remember correctly, my 
friend Mr. Roach Smith, of Strood, by Rochester (not Stroud as 
there printed), has given some history of this Kentish Damson. 
On reading Mr. Robson’s account of it I have very recently 
troubled Mr. Smith to refresh my memory. He tells me that 
the old tenant of the market garden behind his house, and 
belonging to him (Mr. Smith), found it many years ago growing 
in his garden, and gave it to Mr. Crittenden. It should, there- 
fore, be called Herbert’s Damson, as he was its original pos- 
sessor as far as can be known, but as he did not raise it from 
seed the Cluster will do. 

With regard to its productiveness, which Mr. Robson seems 
to challenge the world to surpass, I have only to state that Mr. 
Pearson, of Chilwell, has a Damson plantation of something 
less than two acres, from which he has gathered in a productive 
season six hundred bushels. This sort is the Prune Damson, 
larger and superior in flavour to all others. It has downy 
leaves, and like its congener the Dalrymple Damson, a Scotch 
sort, is remarkable for its productiveness and superior flavour. 

With regard to the productiveness of Plums when planted 
well and summer-pruned, I can state that from half an acre of 
Harly Rivers and Prolific Plums, pyramids, twenty-five years 
old and 12 feet apart, I gathered in 1869 150 bushels of fruit, 
which were all sold by the 4th of August, commencing to send 
to market on the 25th of July; others made from 10s. to 14s. 
per bushel, averaging 12s. per bushel. I have often regretted 
that, instead of planting the trees 12 feet apart, I did not plant 
them 6 feet apart, for I can now see how by summer-pruning 
some Plums may be grown at that distance. I havea plantation 
about eight years old of this kind of Plum planted 6 feet apart, 
or 1200 to the acre. The trees are now from 9 to 10 feet high, 
and the most perfect pyramids I ever saw; they are covered 
with fruit from ‘tip to toe,” and are calculated to give half a 
bushel per tree. This produce will reach that of the Kentish 


DAMSON— 


Damsons ; and when the trees are double their present age— 


which I shall not see—they will be remarkable. They are 
market-garden pruned in June and again in August. There 
are a few other kinds of Plums that bear this summer-pruning 
well, and among them one or two seedlings that have a pyra- 
midal growth and productive nature. 

I should mention that in the plantation last mentioned the 
trees are very luxuriant, and would make shoots (those un- 
pruned do so) from 5 to 7 feet long. But that snmmer-pruning 
how efficient, and at present not comprehended, at least by 
Kentish growers! By the end of the century fruit will be cul- 
tivated, not grown as at present. 

My Apples grown on old standards—the Dumelow’s Seedling 
—went to market in December, they rotted fast ; the same sort 
cultivated on Paradise stocks 4 feet apart and summer-pruned, 
ig still sound and very beautiful.— Tos. Rivers. 


THE CUCUMBER DISEASE. 


I wave been growing Cucumbers for the last nine years, and 
during that time the disease never troubled me but once. My 
experience has been entirely with dung beds. I have always 
had Cucumbers early in May, and it was in that month I noticed 
the disease first—a scab on the fruit and the leaves spotted. 
I was completely puzzled. It was my first year as gardener, 
and I never heard of the disease before; and to make the 
matter worse, my employer. wanted a Cucumber for a party on 
the 15th of May. I sat down on the frame and began to think. 
After a short time a thought struck me; I stood up, rubbed 
my eyes, took off the lights, felt the top of the bed—it was too 
damp. I then bared the roots and found them too dry and 
hot. Iscraped off as much of the sour soil as I could, picked 


off all the fruit and spotted leaves, put in some fresh soil, with 
a little charcoal, gave a good watering, picked off all the flowers 
as they appeared for three weeks, and layered all the shoots 
except the very weak ones. At the end of the third week I had 
fine healthy plants, and a good crop of fruit which lasted until 
the end of November without one spotted leaf or fruit. I am 
of opinion there are but two causes for the disease—namely, 
too little water and air, with a high temperature, and too much 
water and not enough of air when the heat falls. Such treat- 
ment causes a canker in the roots, which, I am convinced, pro- 
duces the spot in the leaves and scab on the fruit.—W. C. 
BurcHiny, Gardener to Dr. Wheatley, Abbey View, Sligo. 


CROSS-BREEDING THE MIMULUS. 


Tuer Mimulus has been one of my favourite flowers for tho 
past thirty years, during which period every species that could 
be obtained has been carefully subjected to trial to ascertain 
its capability of hybridising; but as it is not important to enu- 
merate my many failures, it suffices to say that the introduction 
of Mimulus cupreus has enabled me to produce a great variety 
of novelties, which, though still susceptible of considerable 
imiprovement, are much in advance of those that are in general 
cultivation. It is, therefore, my intention to show how easily 
anyone who will observe the rules of isolation, preparation, 
and registration may, with the assistance of a few minor in- 
structions, not only ensure success but also run me a very 
hard race. 

Discarding all consideration of the so-called double varieties 
which are yet too imperfect to merit attention I will confine 
my remarks to the old form, the flowers of which ought not to 
be less than 2 inches in diameter, of thick substance in the 
petals, and circular in outline. The combinations of colours 
and markings are so infinite as to defy minute description. 
Probably selfs, such as white, pearl, mauve, magenta, crimson, 
rose, orange, scarlet, and bronze are amongst the most effective. 
After five years of careful selection and crossing my labour has 
been rewarded with carnation stripes and marks, which, with 
a little more care, will probably soon introduce a handsome and 
distinct strain. Other promising novelties are algo being slowly 
advanced. 

With the exception of selfs, light shades, and bordered varie- 
ties, the lip of the Mimulus should be of a darker shade than 
the other petals; spotted and blotched varieties, including the 
throat, ought to display four or five shades of colour. As @ 
rule it may be considered that seedlings have a tendency to 
assume the colour of the male parent; for instance, last year a 
pod of seed was ripened on a variegated plant that had bronzy 
orange flowers which had been fertilised with a mauve variety. 
Fifteen plants were raised, all of which have variegated foliage,. 
while their flowers are all either mauve or very light shades. 

I will now describe my practice, which, with more space and 
conveniences than I can appropriate to this particular flower, 
may be considerably improved by those who do not labour 
under similar disadvantages. 

Last year about the third week in February the first sowing 
of seed was made in 6 inch pots; these were placed on a shelf 
in a cold greenhouse. When the seedlings were large enough « 
to handle they were pricked into seed pans, allowing nearly 
1 inch to each plant; the pans were then arranged in an ordi- 
nary cold two-light frame, which holds thirty pans, or 1500 
plants. There they began to flower exactly twelve weeks from 
the time of sowing, and by the end of June they (1200) had all 
flowered. The inferior flowers were weeded out as soon as 
they opened, while those that exhibited a decided improvement 
were immediately potted off, and were without delay either 
seeded or used for fertilising purposes. By adopting these 
means, between the 25th of June and the 10th of July a crop 
of seed was secured, which was sown as each pod was gathered, 
the result being that the plants (1500) from this sowing began 
to bloom in seyen weeks and three days; 1200 of these had 
flowered by the end of October ; the remaining 300 were turned 
into the border. Seed was ripened from the best of this batch, 
and a selection made from established varieties, a part of which 
was not gathered before the beginning of December. 

Though the middle of September is late enough to set seed 
so as to ensure its ripening without much loss and trouble, it 
is wise to keep plants ready prepared, so as to be able to fer- 
tilise with seedlings that flower after that date. Under these 
circumstances two or three pods may be impregnated, though 
usually one good pod of seed of each cross is sufficient to pro- 
duce 100 to 150 plants. 


350 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ May 18, 1871. 


The calyx having been cut to remove the anthers, the seed 
pod may shortly before it is ripe be enclosed in a small muslin 
bag, otherwise much of the seed will be lost. 

The green fly will if undisturbed soon spoil a collection of 
Mimulus. Famigating is troublesome and very apt to scald 
the plants; but this pest may easily be kept under by syringing 
the plants when in the seed pans, or by dipping, when in pots, 
in a solution prepared with 10 ozs. African aloes, 3 ozs. potash, 
16 ozs. soft soap, and 12 gallons of water. This solution will 
keep good for weeks, and is very useful in destroying fly on 
Rose trees and other plants that are in the open border. 

About twenty years ago Professor Lindley most obligingly 
sent me flowers of Mimulus tricolor; since then I have neither 
seen nor been able to hear of it. Can you or some of your 
numerous readers furnish any recent information about it ?— 
ABRAHAM CLAPHAM. 


A LITTLE MORE ON THE CULTURE OF THE 
VIOLET. 


Liy1nc so far north, and 500 feet above the level of the sea, 
a few words from me may not be out of place, as I have for 
eleven years flowered Violets successfully during nine months 
out of the twelve. 

Like your correspondent ‘‘ J. W., Lincoln,’ I confine myself 
to five sorts—namely, Neapolitan, Czar, Single White, Single 
Russian, and Double Russian. I will take them in the order 
in which I have named them. My practice is in April to 
Civide the Neapolitan Violets, and transplant them from a cold 
frame, under which they are kept from September, to a north- 
east border where they are shaded from the midday sun. I 
think nothing so injurious to the well-being of Violets as for 
them to be exposed to a scorching sun, particularly during such 
summers as we have had for the last three years. The same 
plants are taken up and planted in the cold frame early in 
September, a little fresh soil being added, also come well-de- 
cayed leaf soil. All the runners are cut off at the same time. 
If the plants are kept a little close, and a skiff with the syringe 
given morning and evening for a few days should the weather 
be hot and dry, they will soon repay the trouble, provided the 
frame is open to the morning sun, closed two or three hours 
before sunset, and well covered in frosty weather with loose 
straw. That which has been used in the stable I find the best 
to keep out frost. By following the above method I have 
gathered Neapolitan Violets from September up to the follow- 
ing May. 

Next in order is The Czar, which, on account of its long 
flower stalk, is very useful for bouquets or in dressing vases. 
It is also valuable from its hardiness, at least it has been so 
with me. It was quite green after the severe winter, and flow- 
ered beautifully as soon as the frost was over. 

I find that the Single White does not like transplanting every 
year, for I have not had a single flower on some plants which 
I transplanted last spring, while some left in the same place as 
that in which they have been ever since I came here flowered 
beautifully. 

My favourite, however, is the Single Russian. When it is 
transplanted every year and grown where it is shaded from the 
midday sun, I have had it in flower from July until the end of 
March, provided the summer was not too dry and the winter 
was mild; but this year is an exception, for I have lost from 
frost nearly all my plants of it that were in a south-west border 
near the Box. 

The next variety in order is the Double Russian, which 
I find most difficult to grow. I have planted it in the frame 
with the Neapolitan, but it was always eaten up with the red 
spider. This year I left the plants out all the winter, and 
nearly lost them owing to frost; but after taking them up, 
dividing, and transplanting, they have ina great measure re- 
covered and are showing flowers. 

I make it a practice to plant my Violets where the water can 
be had close at hand, andI give them a good soaking twice 
a-week when the weather is dry, also a good dusting of soot 
and guano about once a-fortnight just before watering, and 
after the sun is off the plants, whether there is any red spider 
or not. This acts asa preventive. Being very much troubled 
with the wireworms, I find no better remedy than soot and 
guano. In fact I cannot grow many plants here without it. 

I ought to have stated before that I have transplanted all my 
Violets except the Single White to the north-east border, on 
account of the very hot dry summers we have lately had. It 
will therefore be necessary to transplant them again early in 


the autumn to some warm corner or border. I have never 
adopted this course before, but, except as regards the Neapoli- 
tan, I do not think it will much retard their blooming if care 
be taken to lift the plants with good balls, and to well water 
them if the soil is dry.—T. Excome, North Wales. 


STRAWBERRY CULTURE AND COMING CROP. 


Tue statements of the gardeners in this neighbourhood, and 
my own observations, remove from my mind all apprehensions 
of a light crop of this fruit. I looked over my plants this 
morning, and found them throwing up very strong flower-stems, 
and having foliage remarkably luxuriant, considering the 
severity of the winter and the prevalence of cutting east winds. 

My mode of culture is simple, and consists in taking off the 
runners as early as possible in the season, and I am very par- 
ticular to pull up all unfruitful plants. I plant the runners a 
few inches apart until well rooted, taking care to shade and 
water for a few days. About the end of August I plant them 
in their permanent beds. 

Last season I was very short of that most useful sort La 
Constante, and so adopted the system of dividing the old roots, 
and now in appearance they are quite equal to the best runners 
I have. 

In my opinion no Strawberry beds should be allowed to 
stand more than three years. I planta piece of ground every 
year, and destroy those I have fruited three seasons. I think 
it is a great mistake to dig between the rows. A good plan is 
to cut off all the runners and dead leaves in the autumn, and 
then put on a layer of sifted leaf mould an inch deep, and in 
the following April to give them a good mulching with partly- 
decayed stable manure. After the first flowers are set give the 
plants copious waterings with weak liquid manure, always in 
the evening. 

Three things Strawberries must have if a good crop is ex- 
pected—yiz., plenty of room, plenty of air, and plenty of water 
in dry weather. es 

I may add that the general fruit crop looks most promising 
in this district; Apples, Cherries, Plums, and bush frnit being 
remarkably full of bloom, and many of them well set.—RicHarD 
JAMESON, Gargrave. 


EFFECTS OF LAST WINTER. 


As # record of the hardiness of various shrubs is always 
useful I send you the following notes. The situation of the 
garden, which is at Colwyn Bay, near Conway, is unusually 
favourable, yet a registering minimum thermometer showed a 
lowest temperature of 11°—i.e., 21° below freezing, and nearly 
all my East Lothian and Emperor Stocks were killed. Eugenia 
apiculata, young shoots slightly injured. Huonymus japonicus 
aureo-variegatus, young shoots killed, plants not otherwise 
injured. Pinus longifolius, killed. Skimmia oblata, Elaagnus 
japonica variegata, E. pungens variegata, Osmanthus ilici- 
folius, O. ilicifolius variegatus, Cryptomeria elegans, Thujopsis 
dolabrata, Pinus insignis, Cupressus macrocarpa, Spirza Lind- 
leyi, S. Reevesi, S. Hookeri, Grislinia littoralis, Cupressus 


sempervirens, Eurya japonica variegata are quite uninjured. 


Rhododendron arboreum is nearly if not quite killed. Clian- 
thus puniceus grown from seed stood the weather uninjured 
against a south wall, though otherwise unprotected ALFRED 
O. WALKER. 


CYPRIPEDIUM NIVEUM. 


Tuer genus Cypripedium has many claims upon the attention 
of lovers and growers of plants, for the species are neazly all 
very easily grown into good specimens; their flowers are ex- 
tremely beautiful, in many instances richly coloured, and 
remain a very long time in all their glory, to which may be 
added a singular and unique structure, which never fails to 
attract the eye of even the most casual observer. 

Amongst the many fine kinds of this genus to be found in 
our gardens, the species which the artist so faithfully pour- 
trayed last week takes first rank. It is a close, compact-grow- 
ing species, producing thick fleshy leaves, which are from 4 to 
6 inches long, by 1} inch broad, oblong-obtuse, dark green 
above, with irregular blotches and streaks of metallic white; 
the under side is dark purple. Peduncle about 6 inches long, 
usually one-flowered; sometimes, however, two are produced. 
The dorsal sepal is large, broadly ovate, pure satiny white 
within, stained with rosy purple outside, lower sepals coalescing 
into one, considerably smaller than the superior one, ovate, 


May 18, 1871. ] 


white within, stained with rosy-purple without. Petals very 
broad, oblong, obtuse, emarginate at the apex, and somewhat 
cuneate at the base, pure soft white, sparingly freckled with 
rosy purple or violet dots. Lip saccate, about as large as a 
doye’s egg, white, with a few violet dots. Siaminode white, 
with a blotch of clear lemon colour. 

C. niveum is at once a chaste and most attractive plant when 
in bloom, and entirely distinct from any other species hitherto 
introduced. It is a native of India, probably of Barmah or 
Siam, but the exact locality whence it was brought is not known. 
‘The ueual compost (peat, sand, and sphagnum) suits this species 
well. It should be placed in the warm end of the Kast Indian 
house, and treated liberally to water, but care must be taken to 
have the pots well drained, to prevent stagnant moisture destroy- 
ing the roots. The supply of water must be decreased during 
syinter, but at the same time it should be borne in mind that 
as these plants are destitute of pseudo-bulbs, they cannot suffer 
swant of moisture with impunity.—Hxprerto CREDE. 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 
May 171TH. 


On this occasion the Show was held in a spacious tent at the southern 
‘side of the garden. Instead of stages for the plants turf banks were 
employed, and with excellent effect. In the centre was a circle with 
a large Palm set round with Roses, Azaleas, and Rhododendrons. 
"Lhe broad central walk of the tent, with banks of flowers on each side, 
was curved out to suit the outline of the circle, and the banks sepa- 
zated from the higher ground on each side by a dwarf Box hedge, 
which served as a backing to the flowers, without at the same time 
obstructing the view of what was beyond. The effect of this arrange- 
snent was very good, but would have been improved by a more plenti- 
¢ul introduction of larger specimens. ‘The main features of the 
Exhibition were Pelargoniums, Heaths, stove and greenhouse plants, 
and Palms, and though these did not fill up the large area of the 
‘tent so fully as desirable, still the display was both extensive and good. 

For nine Show Pelargoniums in 8-inch pots Mr. Ward, gardener to 
‘F. G. Wilkins, Esq., Leyton, was first with magnificent plants 4 feet 
vin diameter, in all respects admirably grown, being covered with 
%yloom, with abundance coming on, and the foliage fresh and without 
being in the slightest degree “‘ drawn.” The kinds were Conqueror, 
®atroness, Mdlle. Patti, Lilacina, Alabama, Rose Celestial a splendid 
specimen, Empress Eugénie, Pericles, and Exhibitor. The second 
prize went to Messrs. Dobson & Sons, of Isleworth, who had fine 
plants of Rose Celestial, Desdemona, and Lilacina. For six Mr. 
Ward was again first with plants averaging 3 feet across, and, like his 
larger specimens, admirably grown. Rob Roy and Beacon were ex- 
tremely brilliant, while of light kinds Desdemona was large and very 
fine; the others were Empress Eugénie, Maid of Honour, and Fair 
Rosamond. Mr. James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., Isleworth, 
‘was second. 

Of Fancy Pelargoniums, the best.six in the amateurs’ class came 
from Mr. Weir, gardener to Mrs. Hodgson, Hampstead; the second 
best from Mr. James; and in the nurserymen’s class, Messrs. Dobson 
were the only exhibitors, taking the first prize. Acme, Godfrey, Ellen 
Beck, Lady Craven, and Carminatum were the best. 

Class 5 was for six Clematis. In this the only exhibitor was Mr. 
‘Wharles Noble, of Bagshot, who took a first prize with C. Jackmanni, 
and beautifully-flowered plants 18 inches high of Miss Bateman, Lord 
Dondesborough, Mrs. Howard Vyse, Harry Richmond, and Miss 
Howard. On Miss Bateman there were three dozen blooms. 

The next class, 6, was for Palms. The best six came from Mr. 
‘Williams, Holloway, and consisted of noble specimens of Phcenico- 
phorium sechellarum, Latania borbonica, Chamerops humilis, Phenix 
sylvestris, Corypha australis, and Verschaffeltia splendida. Messrs. 
Rollisson, Tooting, were second with Verschaffeltia splendida, Pritch- 
ardia pacifica, Areca Verschaffelti, Areca lutescens, a very graceful 
species, Acanthophcenix crinita, and Latania aurea. Messrs. Lee 
ulso exhibited an excellent group not for competition. 

In the open class for eight Cape Heaths, the first position was taken 
by Mr. Ward, with a very large plant of Erica tricolor elegans, E. tri- 
-color Wilsoni in fine bloom, excellent specimens of elegans, Caven- 
dishii, depressa multiflora, and florida, together with a good plant of 
‘Candolleana, and ventricosa grandiflora. Messrs. Jackson & Son, of 
Kingston, were second with a fine example of the white perspicua 
mana, ventricosa coccinea minor blooming most profusely, and good 
specimens of seyeral others. The third prize went to Mr. Morse, 
Epsom, who had among others two pretty sorts, E. mirabilis and 
EK. mundula, and the free-flowering effective white species candi- 
dissima. For six Heaths, Mr. Carr, gardener to P. L. Hinds, Esq., 
Byfleet Lodge, was first, with among others beautifully-bloomed speci- 
mens of ventricosa magnifica, ventricosa coccinea minor, and mu- 
tabilis. Mr. Ward was second with ventricosa magnifica, very brilliant ; 
and Mr. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. H. Goldsmid, Bart., M.P., 
Regent's Park, third. Of twelve Heaths in 12-inch pots, Mr. Ward 
#nrnished admirably-grown specimens full of bloom, taking a first 
prize, the second and third going to Messrs. Jackson and Mr. Wheeler, 
gardener to J. Phillpot, Esq., Stamford Hill. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


51 


wo 


Stove Ferns in collections of six came next in the schedule. In the 
amateurs’ class Mr. Carr was first with a very beautiful Lomaria, said 
to be a hybrid, elegant in its habit; Davallia pyxidata, a large Platy- 
cerium grande, and the beautiful Adiantum farleyense. Mr. Smith, 
gardener to C. Walton, Esq., Manor House, Acton, was second. In the 
nurserymen’s class Mr. Williams had lovely examples of Cibotium 
Schiedei; two fine Gleichenias—viz., spelunce and rupestris, each 
about 4 feet in diameter; Todea superba, a large Bird’s-nest Fern, 
and Todea africana. For this collection the first prize was awarded, 
and the second went to Messrs. Bell & Thorpe, Stratford-on-Avon, 
who had a pretty thriving specimen of the Bird’s-nest Fern, Davallia 
pyxidata, and Lomaria gibba. 

Stove and greenhouse plants were shown in 12-inch pots, and for 
that limited size of pot many of the specimens were remarkably good. 
For twenty Mr. Ward was first with three Heaths, an Ixora, Draco- 
phyllum gracile in excellent bloom, a showy scarlet Clerodendron spe- 
ciosum, C. Balfourii in fine bloom, Francisceas, Anthurium Scherzeri- 
anum, Chorozema Chandleri, Acrophyllum yenosum, Statices, Azaleas, 
and other plants. The whole of these were not only well grown, but 
in excellent bloom. Messrs. Jackson, of Kingston, were second, and 
Mr. Kemp, gardener to the Duke of Northumberland, third. In these 
collections were excellent examples of Aphelexes, Boronias, Heaths, 
Azaleas, Acrophyllum venosum, and Chorozemas. For nine specimens 
Mr. Carr was first with a collection, in which were a very finely bloomed 
Chorozema cordatum elegans, Erica propendens and Victoria, and 
Aphelexis macrantha purpurea. Mr. Wheeler, gardener to J. Phill- 
pot, Esq., who was second, had a fine example of Bougainvillea glabra. 

Of fine-foliaged plants Mr. Bull, Mr. Williams, Messrs. Bell and 
Thorpe, Mr. G. Wheeler, Messrs. Lee, and Messrs. A. Henderson 
exhibited groups. Mr. Bull was first for a group of twenty with Palras, 
Cycads, Dracenas, and Yuccas. Mr. Williams, who was second, had 
Sarracenia Drummondi and purpurea fine, Alocasia Lowii and me- 
tallica, variegated New Zealand Flax, Yuccas, Dracenas, and Palms. 
Messrs. Bell & Thorpe were third. An extra prize was given to 
Messrs. A. Henderson. 

In the miscellaneous class, always « large one, but this time less so 
than usual, Messrs. Lee exhibited an interesting mixed group of 
plants in flower, intermixed with others remarkable for the beanty of 
their foliage. Messrs. Rollisson sent a number of fine Gloxinias, 
various in colours ; Messrs. Dick Radclyffe & Co. a tasteful aquarium, 
with a stand decorated with Ferns; Mr. Bull a group of Orchids, 
Palms, and new and rare plants, among which was Primula japonica, 
noticed in our last report, and which is, doubtless, destined to become 
one of our favourite out-door and cool conservatory plants; and Mr. 
Turner, of Slough, several fine baskets of Tricolor Pelargoniums, & 
stand of Tulips, and one of The Bride Clove Carnation, together with 
Azaleas and Roses. 

M. Alexis Dalliére, of Ghent, sent in tubs some remarkably fine 
specimens of Bays, Gold and Silver Hollies, and Chamerops humilis, 
the last about 7 feet high. Messrs. Lane & Son had a very attrac- 
tive group of Roses, Azaleas, Rhododendrons, &c., forming the centre 
of the exhibition tent; Mr. Ware, of Tottenham, one of spring 
flowers ; and Messrs. E. G. Henderson & Sons, a small group in which 
Thalictrum adiantifolium was very effective by its Fern-like, deep 
green, beautifully divided leaves. The same firm also sent a number 
of seedling Mimuluses, together with a golden-leaved Ivy, which, if 
it prove constant to its character, will be an acquisition. 


Froir Comarrre.—G. E. Blenkins, Esq., in the chair. Mr. 
Small, Nurseries, Colnbrook, sent examples of Small’s Lord Raglan 
Apple, the flavour of which was gone. Mr. Turner, Royal Nurseries, 
Slongh, sent two dishes of Gooseberry Pippin, a good keeping kitchen 
Apple, which was in excellent condition. Mr. Gardiner, Lower Eat- 
ington Park, Stratford-on-Avon, sent a collection of thirteen varieties 
of Apples in very good condition, to which a special certificate was 
awarded for the excellent way in which they had been kept. Mr. 
Searle, gardener to B. C. Steele, Esq., Marlesford Lodge, Hammer- 
smith, sent three fruit of a large Lemon of good quality. Mr. A. 
Colburn, gardener to J. Blyth, Esq., Woolhampton, sent some very 
large and fine examples of Loquats, to which a special certificate was 
awarded. Mr. J. Pottle, gardener to B. D. Colvin, Esq., Woodbridge, 
Suffolk, sent a dish of new Potatoes, named Prince Teck—a good- 
looking Kidney, of good quality when cooked. M. Linden, of Brus- 
sels, sent examples of a seedling Pear, raised from Beurré Clairgeau, 
yery much in appearance of that variety. They were, however, too 
far gone for the Committee to pass any opinion upon. Mr. Standish, 
of the Royal Nursery, Ascot, sent bunches of his new seedling Grape 
Royal Ascot Frontignan, the great merit of which is its earliness and 
fine flavour. The fruit was grown in the same house with Black Ham- 
burgh, of which a bunch not yet coloured was also shown, while the 
seedling was perfectly ripe. The Vines were started early in January. 
Tt was raised from Muscat Blanc de Saumur and Chasselas Musque. 
A first-class certificate was awarded to it. : f 

A communication was read from Mr. Temple, of Balbirnie, describ- 
ing the mode in which the Lady Downe’s Grapes exhibited at last 
meeting were kept. It was as follows :— 

“ The Lady Downe’s Grape referred to were ripe in August, cut in No- 
vember (I think some earlier and some later, but these were among the 
earliest). The temperature would average from 40° to 5b°, but sometimes 
down nearly to the freezing point. They were kept in the dark. The 


352 


structure in which they were kept is a common fruit room where Apples, 
Pears, seed Potatoes, &c., were crammed. The water in the bottles was 
never changed entirely, but a little added once or twice. A few pieces of 
charcoal were placed in many of the bottles, though some had none, 
and showed no difference in keeping, taste, &c. The water was partly 
rain and spring water from a tank used to catch all the waste water. The 
ends of the wood above the bunch, about half an inch long, were rubbed 
with Thomson’s Styptic. The fruit room was frequently fumigated with 
sulphur, a practice we perform to keep insects and mice from establishing 
their quarters. About 120 bunches were thus kept, and I am not aware 
that any of them decayed, except a few berries in April on some very close 
bunches. 

“What I attribute their keeping so sound to is thorough ripening early 
in the season, firing hard, with top and front air on a month or six weeks 
after the fruit was app fe itly ‘finished.’ We have practised this system 
for five years past with the same results, and have no difficulty in keep- 
ing white and black Muscats in good condition till March. We had some 
this season till the 4th of that month, which were cut early last August. 
—Yours respectfully, M. Tempre.” 

“P.S—If you should desire any Grapes sent a month hence or 
later, probably I may be able to do so, as we have a quantity stillina 
small shed, which are finer than those sent. The latest we have kept 
Lady Downe’s in good condition was the 10th of June. We exhibited a 
bunch three years ago on that date. They were coloured in the July of 
the previous year.—M. T.” 

A special certificate was awarded, and the thanks of the Committee 
passed to Mr. Temple for his communication. 

For the best collection of forced fruits, Mr. Miles, gardener to Lord 
Carrington, Wycombe Abbey, had a first prize for admirably-grown 
fruit. 

For Messrs. Carter’s prizes there was only one exhibitor, Mr. G. 
Brown, gardener to C. Mackenzie, Esq., Fawley Court, Great Marlow, 
who had a first prize in the class for Carter's First Crop Pea, sown on 
turf November 3rd, planted under walls March 6th. A like award was 
made to the some exhibitor in the class for any other early Pea, for 
Little Gem, sown November 1st and planted March 6th. Both were 
very good samples for the time of year. 


Frorat Commrrer.—Mr. J. Fraser in the chair. Mr. Denning, 
gardener to Lord Londesborough, Grimston Park, had a special certi- 
ficate for a very splendid collection of Orchids, in which a magnificent 
specimen of Vanda teres (Anderson’s variety), with nearly, if not 
quite, a score of clusters of blossoms was most conspicuous. For 
this a special certificate was awarded. In the same splendid collection 
were beautiful examples of Aérides Lindleyanum, varieties of Cattleya 
Mossiw, and Saccolabium premorsum. A special certificate was given 
to the collection, and a first-class certificate to Cattleya Reineck- 
jana, white, with a white, yellow, and purple lip, a very beautiful 
variety of one of the most beautiful of all Orchids. 

Mr. W. Thompson, of Ipswich, sent Collinsia violacea, a hardy 
Californian annual, violet, with white and lemon upper petals. This 
received a first-class certificate. It was, however, as shown, rather 
weedy, but this, no doubt, arose from artificial forwarding ; if as com- 
pact as the rest of the Collinsias, which are among the most useful 
and beautiful of the hardy annuals, it will, doubtless, be a gain. 

Mr. E. B. Foster, of Clewer, sent several very promising new Show 
Pelargoniums—Iron Duke, Cesar, and Brigand. From Mr. Linden, 
of Brussels, came Masdevallia Lindeni, from New Granada, a beautiful 
mauyve-coloured Orchid, a charmicg companion to the scarlet Mas- 
devallia Veitchii. This received a first-class certificate. From the 
same firm came also Odontoglossum luteo-purpureum sceptrum. Mr. 
Green, gardener to W. Wilson. Saunders, Esq., sent a species of As- 
pasia, past its best; and Messrs. Carter & Co. Lilium Humboldtii. 

Mr. Wiggins, gardener to W. Beck, Esq., Isleworth, contributed a 
number of cut blooms of Pelargoniums, very fine in colour, but without 
plants no award could be made; and Mr. Badman, Lee Green, doutle 
Petunia Princess Louise, a large-flowered variety, of good character. 
From Mr. Muir, gardener to Sir P. Egerton, Bart., Oulton, came Viola 
Beauty of Oulton, a yellow variety, said to surpass V. lutea grandi- 
flora; and from Messrs. Lee, of Hammersmith, Lobelia White Per- 
fection, a very promising white-flowered kind, though, as shown, rather 
too free in growth. E.J. Lowe, Esq., Highfield House, Nottingham, 
sent several seedling Pansies, very fine in colour, and likely to be 
useful for bedding purposes, one a cross-bred between the fancy and 
the Alpine Pansies. Mauve Queen Intermediate Stock, very free- 
flowering and good, from Mr. G. Smith, received a first-class certificate. 

Mr. Turner, of Slough, had a first-class certificate for Rose Paul 
Néron, a very splendid deep rose-coloured Rose, of the largest size ; 
also for Tricolor Pelargonium Mrs. Rousby, which we have before 
reported on, and Baroness Burdett Coutts. The same award was made 
to Mr. Turner for Azalea Comtesse de Flandres, of immense size, rose, 
spotted with crimson. A first-class certificate was given to Mr. Wil- 
liams, of Holloway, for Adiantum asarifolium, a very fine species, 
partaking in character of A. reniforme; and special certificates were 
awarded to M. Dalliere, of Ghent, for a remarkably fine specimen of 
Anthurium Scherzerianum with thirteen spathes; also for Azalea La 
Reine. Mr. Wilson, gardener to W. Marshall, Esq., had a like award 
for a most beautiful example of Hemanthus tenuiflorus. Messrs. 
Veitch likewise obtained a special certificate for a very splendid collec- 
tiod of cut Rhododendron blooms. 


Sonurion ror Destroyine Insects —M. Cloez, of the Garden 
of the Paris Museum, gives, in the Revue Horticole, an effica- 
cious recipe for destroying plant-lice and other insects :— 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULFURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 18, 1871. 


34 ozs. quassia chips and 5 drachms stayeacre seeds, in powder, 
are placed in seven pints of water and boiled down to five pints. 
When cooled, the strained liquid is ready for use, either in & 
watering-pot or syringe. 


KABBITS AND HARES versus TREES. 


Jupaine from Mr. Abbey’s list, in your paper of the 27th ult., 
of the trees and shrubs which hares and rabbits have eaten or 
spared during the past winter, and from my own experience, I 
am forced to conclude either that these animals are somewhat 
capricious in their tastes, or that their ravages mey be pre- 
vented by supplying them with food they like better than the 
bark or leaflets of trees and shrubs. I have here a number of 
young Laburnums not one of which has been touched, though 
some Wallflowers and Alyssum saxatile growing close to them 
were cropped. A near neighbour of mine had his Sedums 
eaten, whilst not one of mine was touched. One Scotch Fir. 
about 8 feet high, has been barked all round, but I have been 
unable to find another similar instance, although my land and 
the country for miles round is covered with these trees.— 
Hermit, Sunninghill. 


EMBRYONIC INARCHING. 


Some years ago, we regarded the idea that two cells of dis- 
tinct kinds would unite and form a third variety, as a fable. 
Thus, when Mr. Blodgett represented that his sweet and sour 
Apple resulted from a union of buds in grafting, we dissented.. 
It was not that we doubted that the experiments were made as 
represented, but that we thought the results obtained were due: 
to other laws than that of cell union; and that the manner in 
which the two buds were united, in the one budding operation, 
had nothing todo with the case. It has always been our custom, 
however, not to feel too sure that our own notions of things are 
right, and in this spirit, though starting with the idea of this. 
cell union being impossible, we have looked about to see what 
the wild waves of Nature are saying about the question ; ang 
gradually we have been brought to believe that this cell union, 
and consequent production of new forms, is not the absurd 
thing we once thought it was. 

The writer of this has at various times called the attention of 
scientific institutions to facts which cannot be explained in any 
other way, than that the appearances were due to embryonic 
inarching. This has gradually taken shape, until with similar 
observations in Europe, both prior and subsequent to his own, 
we think the point is fully established; and the great point 
contended for by Mr. Blodgett is gained—namely, the perfect 
possibility of the fruit production for which he contends.— 
(American Gardener's Monthly.) : 


PORTRAITS OF PLANTS, FLOWERS, anp FRUITS. 


PuinopenpRon Winutamsit (Mr. Williams’s Philodendron). 
Nat. ord., Aracee. Linn., Monecia Triandria.—Native of 
Brazil. Requires to be in the aquarium of a stove.—(Bod. 
Mag., t. 5899.) rats 

Barrisia eucopHaa (Bright-white Baptisia). Nat. ord., Le- 
guminose. Linn., Decandria Monogynia.—Native of United 
States. Flowers white, tinged with greenish yellow. Hardy 
herbaceous plant.—(Ibid., t. 5900.) : 

NeRINE pupica (Chaste Nerine). Nat. ord., Amaryllidacese. 
Linn , Hexendria Monogynia.—Native of South Africa. Flow- 
ers white, with crimson streak down the centre of each section. 
—(Ibid., t. 5901.) 

EprmpgNpRuM ERECTUM (@xalted Epidendrum). Wat. ord., 
Orchidaces. Linn., Gynandria Monandria.—Believed to be a 
native of New Grenada. Flowers purplish crimson.—(Ivid., 


t. 5902. 

Cen DEFoRMIS (Ill-shaped Hamanthus). Neat. ord., 
Amaryllidacee. Linn., Hexandria Monogynia.—Native of 
Natal. ‘A grotesquely ugly Cape bulb.”” Flowers ivory white- 


—(Ibid., t. 5903.) we ena 

Pracu—Lord Palmerston.— The variety isone of Mr. Rivers’s: 
recent valuable acquisitions, and is of the race of the Pavie de 
Pompone, a very large clingstone Peach ripening in October. 
The new variety retains to a slight extent this adherent quality 
of the flesh. The Rey. W. F. Radclyfie’s note concerning it 
runs as follows :— 

“ «Tord Palmerston is a very large Peach, the largest here. 
I sent the artist three specimens, one not painted 10 inches in 
circumference the two, portrayed most faithfully, were yather 


May 18, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 353 


over 9 inches, and were not quite fully grown. 
would travel better than when fully ripe. It is a very valuable 
Peach. Its season on a south wall, in my exposed garden, is 
from the last week in September to October 11th. In more 
genial situations, I suppose from the second week in September 
to October 1st would be about its season. It is somewhat like, 
but larger than, the Princess of Wales—a most beautiful late 
Peach, of the same season. The flowers of both are amongst 
the largest of all Peaches, and afford quite a floral sight. Tha 
trees of both are most vigorous and prolific. Lord Palmerston 
is finely ehaped. Tho skin, when covered with leaves, as was 
the case with the 10-inch Peach sent, is rich cream, without 
any marking. The two figured were exposed to the light. Tho 
colour of the skin is creamy, with either pink suffusion, or 
mottled like the specimens figured. ‘The flesh is firm, and 
slightly adherent when not fully ripened; but when the flesh is 
fully matured it is melting, and also rich for so late a season. 
Like the Princess of Wales, it is very red at the stone. It was 
raised from the Princess of Wales Peach, which variety was 
raised from Pavie de Pompone. ‘The glands are round, or 
nearly so. This description, like the portrait, is, I believe, 
faithful.’ 

‘The fruit, at the end of September last, were fully 9 inches 
dn circumference. The skin was of a pale sulphur yellow, the 
exposed parts being flushed with dull crimson, over which was 
disposed in crowded blotches a deeper or purplish-red tint, the 
whole of the highly-coloured part of the fruit thus acquiring a 
marbled character. The flesh was firm, whitish in colour, 
becoming red next the stone, and of rich and pleasant flavour, 
though, being prematurely gathered, it could not have been at 
its best. The glands of the leaves were very small, roundish- 
reniform. 

‘“ Fruit-growers owe a special debt of gratitude to Mr. Rivers 
for the valuable additions which, through the aid of orchard- 
house culture, he has been enabled to make during the last few 
years to our collections of Peaches and Nectarines especially. 
The acquisitions amongst early and late varieties are particu- 
larly valuable; and of that which we now figure Dr. Hogg 
remarks, ‘ This will prove one of the best, as it is one of the 
dargest late Peaches.’ ’—(Florist and Pomologist, 3 #., iv. 97.) 


I thought they 


TENACITY OF LIFE IN SOME SEA ANEMONES, 


Tur following instance of the wonderful tenacity of life in & 
Sea Anemone will, I think, interest you :— 

I had occasion to move my aquarium last Saturday (April 
29th), and in taking out the various zoophytes found that 
several Anemones—traglodytes of a most determined character 
—had so securely fastened themselves into deep crevices that 
it was impossible to get at them, and I was obliged to leave 
them to their fate. The tank was then emptied, moved to its 
new place, filled with cistern water, and thoroughly scrubbed 
out with a brush. It was then emptied and refilled with fresh 
water several times, and finally remained, near a window, per- 
fectly dry, and exposed to the sun until Thursday evening, 
when the sea water was put back. To my astonishment, next 
morning two of the Anemones out of the five which had been 
deft in the tank were fully expanded and in perfect health, 
having thus survived between four and five hours’ immersion 
in dirty well water and five days’ exposure to the sun and dust! 
‘They were, however, in dark corners. Of the other three, two 
were turned by the sun into regular (marine) mummies, and 
the third floated up from his seclusion when the water was put 
in again in that creamy condition so distressing to aquarians. 
He had been rather damaged in my previous efforts to get him 
out. The two survivors are both Sagartia traglodytes ; the one 
that had been injured and died was of the same species, and 
¢he other two were S. bellis.—Kannera McKean. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


Inquirtes haying been made for a somewhat fuller defini- 
tion of the meaning of the phrase, ‘‘any branch of Bririsu 
Boconomic Enromonoey,”’ used in the announcement of a prize 
of £5, offered by the Royal Horticultural Society for ‘‘ the best 
miscellaneous collection of any branch of British Economic 
Entomology,” we are requested to state that it relates to such 
departments of Hconomic Entomology as concern forests, fields, 
or gardens ; as also to insects injurious to manufactured articles, 
&e., but that it is not intended to include useful insect products, 
such as honey. 


—— Farrinapon versus Covent GarDEN.—Now that the trade 


of Covent Garden is threatened seriously, there are rumuurs 
current of intended improvements, the object being to stifle the 
new movement and save a property which for years has been a 
disgrace to the metropolis, and a standing insult to the whole 
fraternity who frequent it for purposes of trade in conneciion 
with their calling. Few of our readers, probably, are fully 
cognisant of the nature of the case. It is not in midday hours 
when the Central Avenue swarms with genteel visitors, and the 
flowers and the fruits shine in the full daylight, that Covent 
Garden can be judged as to its market conveniences for the 
trade for which it was established, and which has long since 
overgrown its contracted capabilities. It must be visiied soon 
after midnight, and the visitor must roam about its precincts 
until the hour when the great town awakes, to enable the im- 
partial critic to form an estimate of what itis and what it is 
not. Honest men who have grown waggon-loads of Caulli- 
flowers or Roses should be at least accommodated with shelier 
for the sale of them in the principal vegetable market of rhe 
metropolis. But at Covent Garden there is no shelter for either 
sellers or buyers. It is an open-air business, and the vendors 
pay a smart toll for the privilege of ‘‘ pitching” their wares on 
a sloppy pavement.—(City Press.) j 


Tue exumple set by CLirron CoLLEGE in the formation 
of a Botanic Garden in connection with the Natural History 
Society is, we understand, about to be followed at MarLBorouGH, 
a plot of ground haying been granted by the authoritice for 
that purpose. Such a garden will be a valuable adjunct to the 
herbarium, if such plants are selected as are typical of the 
principal natural orders, especially of those which are sparingly 
represented in the British flora. 


Tue Szawerp on Wrack (Fucus vesiculosus), called in 
Brittany goémon, is there extensively collected along the coasts 
for fertilising the lands, and also for fuel, which last is so 
scarce that even cow dung (as it is in India) is collected and 
dried against the walls for that use. The gathering of y.émon 
takes place in March and September, and employs the whole 
population of the district. On the appointed day for gathering 
the crop, horses, oxen, cows, dogs, every animal and every 
machine, are put into requisition. Women and children, all are 
assembled in the bays, sometimes to the number of 10,000; 
but to allow the poor to have the full advantage, the custom is, 
on the first day, to admit only the necessitous of the ;arish. 
It is called ‘‘ The day of the poor.’”’ The fine sands of the sea- 
shore are also carted and laid on the heavy soils to improve 
their staple. Roscoff is the great gardening district. he 
whole country round is kitchen garden. They grow Onions, 
Cabbages, Parsnips, Asparagus, Artichokes, Cauliflowers, &c., 
and the gardeners will carry their produce 100 miles to market. 
2,000,000 lbs. of Onions are said to be sent by them to England 
annually.—(Palliser’s Brittany.) 

Mr. Watwace, the well-known naturalist, is going to try 
on a large scale experiments in NATURALISING PLANTS, and is 
very hopeful of success. 


THE TEMPERATURE OF THE BRITISH 
ISLANDS. 


In the Journal of the Scottish Meteorological Society there ap- 
ears a paper under the above title, by the Secretary of the Society 
Alexander Buchan, M.A.), which, on account of the instructive maps 

accompanying it, is full of interest. The paper contains the results 
of thermometrical observations made at seventy-six stations in Scot- 
land, sixty-seven in England, twelve in Ireland, and fifteen in countries 
adjoining, deduced from observations made, in many cases, during % 
period of thirteen years (1857 to 1869). For those places at which 
the observations had not been made for so long a period, corrections 
were obtained by comparison with observations made at places adjacent, 
so asto reduce all toone uniform series. And from the resulting mean 
values isothermal lines, or lines of equal temperature, have been con- 
structed, not only for the average of the whole year, but also for each 
separate month of the year. The comparison of the thirteen maps 
thus obtained, one with another, is most interesting and instructive, 
especially as showing the influence of the temperature of the Atlantic 
ocean on the coasts washed by its waves. On the average of the whole 
year, as would generally be supposed, the temperature declines as we 
approach the north, whilst there is little variation between the tempe- 
rature of places situated on an east and west line. But when we 
come to examine the maps for the separate months we are met by un- 
expected phenomena. During the summer months the isothermal lines 
run nearly east and west, without any very extravagant variation— 
that is, it is warmer towards the south, and colder towards the north. 
But in the winter months this is all changed, the lines running then 
nearly north and south. Thus, in the months of July and August the 


B54 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 18, 1873. 


temperature of London is within 1° of that of the Land’s End, whilst 
both are about 10° warmer than the Shetland Islands. In December 
and January, on the contrary, the temperature of London is within 
1° of that of the Shetland Islands, whilst it is 5° colder than that of 
the Land’s End. In spring and autumn the lines occupy intermediate 
positions, crossing the country in a diagonal direction ; but interesting 
as it is to follow, in the successive monthly maps, the changes of 
position of the lines, we cannot enter into further description of their 
changes here. The one broad result, as already indicated, appears to 
be that, although during the summer warmth is to be reached princi- 
pally by going south, in winter we soonest reach warmth by going in a 
westerly or south-westerly direction. In the month of January, for 
instance, it is rather warmer at Lancaster than in London, and several 
degrees warmer in Wales. Again, in the Isle of Skye, during the same | 
month, it is 2° warmer than at Aberdeen, and at the Land’s End 
6° warmer than at Dover. 

A few remarks condensed from Mr. Buchan’s discussion of his results 
may be interesting. In referring to the powerful influence of the sea 
in modifying the courses of the isothermal lines in the different months | 
of the year, he alludes to the importance of making observations on 


the temperature of the sea also, and mentions that such observations 
have for some years been made at different points round the Scottish 
ccast. One of the best illustrations of the influence of the ocean is the 
high temperature of the northern islands during winter ; the consery- 
ing effect of the Irish Sea and English Channel may also. be traced. 
The mildest winter climate of Great Britain is found in the peninsula 
of Devon and Cornwall, a part of the country which as well as- bemg- 
far south and west, is more completely enveloped by the ocean than any 
other. The climate of the British Islands is much milder in winter’ 
and cooler in summer than in continertal regions in the same latitudes,. 
the influence of the sea being everywhere felt. In those parts of the: 


| country, however, most removed from the sea the heat in summer is. 


relatively great. Thus, in London and the tract of country immediately. 
to the westward of London, the temperature in summer is higher than. 
that which prevails in the region around. Mr. Buchan discusses to- 
some extent also the question of temperature in connection with agri- 
culture and the maturing of crops, but we cannot here follow him 
further, and must refer those who desire more information to the paper 
itself, promising them that the maps alone will prove most interesting 
subjects of study.—(Mechanics’ Magazine.) 


GROUND LEVELLING AND PRACTICAL GARDEN PLOTTING.—No. 16. 
DRAWING PLANS. 


To draw and tran‘fer to the ground jig. 39. Draw the reat- 
Draw lines 


angle ABCD, also the diameter lines E F and G H. 
12 a 4s ib, orcs 
From centre o, with 
radius o a, draw arc a; 
with the same radius 
draw all the arcs on 
the circle a. With 
radius o b draw arc b, 
and all the arcs on the 
circle b. From centre 
o draw arcs c, d, and e, 
also the centre circle o, 
From point 8, on line 
AB, draw are f, meet- 


ing lines 12,34; then 
draw arcs g, h, and i. 
From centre 9 draw 
ares7r, s,andt. From 
centre 10 draw ares k, 
m,andn. From centre 
11 draw are v, also 
circle wu. From centre 
12 draw are 2 and 


circle wu. From point 
13 draw arc 17 and 
circle p. Where the 


lines cross each other 


are b and the other ares haying the radius 0b. From the 
same peg, with a string 15 feet long, trace arcc. Reduce the: 
string 2 feet 6 inches, 
and trace arc d and 
the other arcs having. 
the same radius. From. 
the same peg, with a 
string 5 feet 10 inches. 
long, trace arce. Re- 
duce the string 2 feet- 
6 inches and trace the. 
circle. From the stake. 
at point H, on line a pk, 
with a string 28 feet. 
6 inches long, trace. 
arc f, a8 shown by. 
radius H f, meeting 
lines 12, 3 4. Re- 
duce the string 2 feet- 
6 inches and trace are 
g. From the same- 
point, with a string 
15 feet long, trace arc: 
h. Reduce the string. 
2 feet 6 inches and. 
trace arc i. On each: 
side of centre 0, on 
line G H, measure. 


are the angles of the 
beds. Draw the other 
side in the same 
manner. 

To transfer fig 39 to 
the ground. From ato 
B, which is the side of 
the rectangle on which 
this design is based, is 
57 feet, and from z toc, 
the other side, 83 feet. 
Find points a, 3, c, p; 
insert a stake at each 
point, and lay lines 
connecting them. Lay 
diameter lines rr and 
@uH. On each side of 
the stake at point A 
measure 2 feet 6inches, 
and insert a peg at 
each point, as at 1 and 
5. From stakes s, c, 
and p find points 3, 6, 
4, 8, and 2, 7 respect- - 
ively inthesame man- A ! iT 
ner; insert a peg at . 
each point. Lay lines Bie abesaseseny 
connecting pegs 1 and 2, 3 and 4,5 and 6,and 7and8. Insert 
a peg at centreo. From the peg at centre o, with a string 
28 feet 6 inches long, trace arc a, also the other ares having 
the same radius. Reduce the string 2 feet 6 inches, and trace 


20 feet 9 inches; in- 
sert pegs as at point 13. 
With a string 8 feet. 
3 inches long trace. 
aro l. Reduce the. 
string 2 feet 6 inches. 
and trace circle ps 
From the peg at point. 
H, with a string 20 feet. 
9 inches in length, 
trace an arc at point %& 
From the peg at point 
13, with the same: 
length of string, trace. 
another arc; where 
the two arcs cut each, 
other is centre 9; in- 
sert a peg at that point. 
From the peg at point 
9, with a string 10 feet 
8 inches long, trace 
are s, meeting lines. 
AB andanp. Reduce 
the string 2 feet 
6 inches and trace arc 
s, meeting lines 1 2 
and 5 6. Again re- 
duce the string 2 feet 6 inches and trace arc t, meeting arcs, 
gandh. From the stake at point r measure 8 feet on line EF,, 
and insert a peg as at point 11; from the peg at point 11, with 
a string 8 feet long, trace arc v. Reduce the string 2 feet. 


feet to the inch. 


May 18, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 3d 


6 inches and trace arc u. Find point 12 on the same line and 
trace are x and circle w in the same manner. Find the corre- 
sponding points on the other side, insert pegs, and trace arcs. 
On each side of stakes 5, F, G, H measure 15 inches, insert pegs 
as at points la, la, and lay lines connecting them for the pur- 
pose of setting out that portion of the straight walk which is 
in the centre, and the design is complete. 

The lines are in Box; sB, beds; w, walks.—M. O‘DonneELL, 
Gardener to EL. Leeming, Esq., Spring Grove, Richmond, 


POLYANTHUS, &c., AT WIERTON. 


Tut renewed demand for hardy spring-flowering plants has 
been more successful in again bringing into use those which 
are old and neglected than in enlisting the services of new ones. 
Amongst others which were favourites in former days, and 
which are again resuming their position, are the various mem- 
bers of the Primrose family; andin spite of the hard winter 
we have passed through they never appeared to have done 
better, the dense blooming of the wild ones being equalled by 
that of the garden varieties. The most profuse-flowering kind 
we have here, as well as the earliest by some weeks, is the Single 
White. I find on looking over a bed of shrubs, amongst which 
I last summer planted out some spare plants of Primula den- 
ticulata, that even these, or at all events the greater part of 
them, have survived the winter and are now flowering, though 
less effectively, than they used to do under glass. I have no 
doubt that the improved variety of P. cortusoides called amena, 
when more plentiful, will become one of the chief ornaments of 
our flower borders. But much is being done in all directions 
with the Primulas; Auriculas of the Alpine section are sought 
out and propagated, and the Polyanthus affords an endless 
list of varieties, 

Amongst those who for the last few years have been raising 
varieties of Polyanthus from seed, Mr. Divers, gardener to 
W. Moore, Esq., of Wierton, has been very successful, and I 
was highly pleazed with his collection when I sawit this spring. 
There seemed to be every shade of colour into which this plant 
runs, and some of the varieties approached that standard of 
excellence which the florists of the last generation laid down as 
necessary to ensure distinction at an exhibition, but these Mr. 
Divers wisely did not regard as so useful as free-flowering 
varieties of more distinct colours. Some of his seedlings had 
flowers approaching nearer to that hue which it has been the 
ambition of breeders of Roses and Dahlias to attain—viz., blue, 
than anything of the kind I have before seen. Manve, rosy 
lilac, and the various tints which contain a mixture of the 
desired colour were plentifal, and one or two varieties were free- 
flowering and ofa fine habit of growth. Others, again, showed 
an inclination to return to the Primrose condition, while one 
or two partook of the Cowslip propensity of hanging the flowers 
mouth downwards, and were of course condemned, though in- 
teresting as showing how widely the family are likely to sport; 
the seed originally, I believe, being from Polyanthuses crossed 
with some of the Primroses. Mr. Divers has also turned his 
attention to breeding Alpine Auriculas, which requires more 
time and patience; and the process of raising seedlings and 
afterwards propagating them being so much slower than with 
the Polyanthus, it will be some time ere fine varieties for flower 
beds become plentiful. 

Mr. Divers also pays great attention to hardy fruits, and I 
believe he has at times successfully exhibited at some of the 
metropolitan shows; at loca! shows he generally stands pre- 
eminent for long-kept Apples and Pears, often exhibiting the 
former eighteen months old or more; while at the time of my 
visit (the middle of April) he had an abundance of Winter Cra- 
sanne Pears in good condition for table, with other stewing 
Pears which seemed likely to keep for months. Catillac and 
Uvedale’s St. Germain were as fresh as when taken from the 
tree, while amongst Apples there were still good Ribston and 
Fearn’s Pippins, a large kind of French Russet, and the 
indispensable French Crab. His place for keeping them 
was far from being perfect—it was an up-stairs room fully 
exposed to the summer gun and not at all lofty. Ihad not 
time to notice the various kinds he had in stock, but I had 
@ look at the trees, which are ordinary standards growing in 
& grass orchard ; the situation rather high, the soil calcareous, 
but highly favourable to the growth of most timber trees and 
many shrubs. 

The pleasure grounds contained some of the neatest Yew 
hedges I have ever seen, and yet they are not more than from 
twelve to eighteen years old, which is but little in the lifetime 


of a Yew hedge, and some of them have been perfect for several’ 
years. Occupying part of the roof of a plant house adjoining 
the mansion a Vine was pointed out to me, which, although 
its roots were confined to a space of ground not more than 
4 feet square, owing to the buildings hemming them in, yet I 
was told nearly a hundredweight of Grapes had often been cut 
from it. The house was well stocked with greenhouse plants, 
for which it was assigned, the Vine being a secondary matter. 
The subsoil, consisting of decomposed Kentish rag, has no 
doubt much influence on the well-being of many things, as: 
timber trees and shrubs. Even under the shade of some lofty 
Beech trees I noticed some very large patches of the Narrow- 
leaved Variegated Vinca, some of them covering patches 5 or 
6 yards wide as closely as could be wished, showing that this 
plant, if the soil is suitable, will grow and look well where 
scarcely anything else will. The walks which traversed these 
shrubberies, and the carriage drive, were asphalted and had 
been laid down many years. Some of the views were lovely, 
at one place a walk running along the edge of a precipice, and 
the valley or broken ground below being an immense orchard. 
At another place a sort of ravine is crossed by a rustic bridge. 
The principal front of the mansion is enclosed by a terrace 
garden bounded by s wall with a parapet, and a series of 
geometrical beds are laid out on grass on the east side. The 
carriage entrance is to the north. The whole place was in good 
keeping and yery creditable to the proprietor, Mr. Moore, and 
his industrious gardener.—J. Rozson. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 
KITCHEN GARDEN. t 
Wir continual surface-stirring weeds will never make their 
appearance amongst growing crops, but there are some parts of 


| the garden, such as those quarters devoted to Gooseberries.. 


Currants, and Raspberries, which, from not requiring continual 
surface-stirring, are apt to be neglected. The hoe should be 
kept constantly at work amongst these whenever the sun is: 
powerful enough to wither the weeds as they are cut up. This 
is a very difficult matter in many places, because so much help 
is required just now in the flower department, but great exer- 
tions should be made to devote a day occasionally to this work, 
for a day now is worth two or three at a later season, and the 
weeds are prevented from seeding. The first-sown Red Beet 
must now be thinned out, and if there are any vacancies the 
thinnings may be successfully transplanted if they are care- 
fully lifted, using a long dibble in replanting, and placing the 
roots perfectly straight in the hole. With such favourable: 
weather as we have had there ought now to be a good breadth 
of Cauliflowers and Cabbages. Keep the earth well moved 
amongst them. Cauliflowers in a forward state must still be 
supplied with liquid manure, even if the ground is wet. A 
few trenches should now be prepared for the earliest Celery. 
In soils with a wet bottom the trenches should not be made 
too deep, so that the plants may be nearly on a level with the: 
surface of the ground; a dry bottom with deeper soil may have 
deeper trenches; in either case give the rows a good width, 
because the Celery should never be earthed-up until it has 
nearly attained a size fit for use, and therefore the intervening 
spaces may be cropped with early dwarf Cabbages, Cauliflowers, 
and Lettuces, all of which would come off before the final 
earthing. Where young Carrots are continually in request 
another sowing may be made, and advancing crops of the same 
must be kept well surface-stirred and thinned out to from 4 to 
6 inches, as very large Carrots are seldom required. — The ridge 
for Cucumbers, recommended last week, will now be in a proper 
state to receive the plants; let them be planted without delay, 
and shade the glasses for a few days. At the same time a fow 
hand-glasses may be sown with seeds of Vegetable Marrows,. 
and with Cucumbers for succession and for Gherkins. For the. 
latter purpose, on warm soils, seeds sown in the open boider 
will suffice; but on colder soils it is better to forward plants in 
pots, have a sloping bank thrown up facing the south, plant. 
them near the top, and train the vines downwards, stopping. 
them occasionally. Plant out Basil, Chilies, Capsicums, and 
Tomatoes in light compost under a south wall, in doing which, 
if they are at all pot-bound, let the roots be gently loosened 
and spread out. Stop the early Peas as soon as the first. 
plooms are well set. Parsnips require to be thinned to 9 inches. 
or more apart if the ground is rich. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 
During the process of nailing-in the shoots of Peaches, Nec- 


336 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 18, 1871. 


tarines, and Apricots, examine if there are any nails likely to 
injare the swelling fruit, and remove them. Those who have 
to nail-in young shoots should use strong cloth shreds of good 
texture, cut to a sufficient length to allow plenty of room for 
the wood to swell; it is sad to see short shreds used, and bound 
so closely round the wood that at the pruning season many of 
the shoots will be found to have an indented ring, and very 
often a huge piece of gum. Vines will now require constant 
attention in stopping and nailing-in. Do not crowd the trees 
svith too much fruit, because it is only in favourable seasons 
that they ripen their fruit well, and not even then if they are 
<rowded. 


FLOWER GARDEN. 

The late rains will be favourable for recently-planted shrubs, 
and now that the soil is damp no time should be lost in com- 
pleting whatever remains on hand in the shape of planting or 
bedding-out young nursery stuff. If not done previously, the 
herbaceous ground should be well cleaned and neatly raked 
over. This cannot well be done sooner in consequence of 
meny species being late in vegetating. Fill-up vacancies, either 
from the reserve ground or by sowing annuals in the inter- 
mediate spaces. Large plants of scme genera, as Phloxes, 
Asters, &c., generally throw up too many flowering shoots, 
‘Where such is the case thin them out at once so as to obtain 
not only fine heads of bloom but increased strength to the re- 
maining shoots to enable them to do with less assistance from 
stakes. Hollyhocks for late blooming may still be planted, as 
it is better, when they are grown extensively, to plant at two or 
%uree times to insure a succession of bloom. These showy 
plants are admirably adapted for planting in long lines and 
parallel straight walks, walls, &c., where they produce a grand 
effect. As the state of the soil and weather is now favourable 
for commencing with the bedding-out stuff, a start should be 
made with the half-hardy plants first, as Calceolarias, Verbenas, 
and similar plants, reserving the Heliotropes and the more 
tender kinds of Geraniums for the latest planting, when the 
danger from frost may be supposed over. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

A good number of the plants in the conservatory, such as 
Diosmas, Myrtles, and other things which have done blooming, 
may be removed to the reserve garden, and being cut back and 
repotted, will, if properly attended to, make fine plants by the 
autumn. These old plants, and many more, are very valuable 
where cut flowers are required for drawing-room decoration. 
Plants from the greenhouse and stove will now be very plentiful 
to decorate this house, but trust more to good plants set thinly 
for producing a satisfactory effect, than to a crowd of com- 
paratively inferior productions. Weed-out the inferior speci- 
mens and kinds in the greenhouse s0 as to give plenty of room 
to the best specimens, and let it be a rule never to allow the 
plants to touch during the time they are making their growth. 
All plants which are becoming shabby must have the old 
blooms removed, and, if necessary, let them be cut back and 
started into fresh growth. Fuchsias should now be growing 
vapidly, and Pelargoniums and Calceolarias should be all in 
bloom. Supply them liberally with weak manure water, ana 
Keep a sharp look-out for insects. Cut down and place in a 
cold frame the choicest Cinerarias for suckers, and put in a 
stock of Chrysanthemum cuttings for autumn display. 


STOVE. 

Afford a brisk growing temperature, with air both night and 
day. Take care to pot in time such plants as require a shift. 
Stephanotis, Schubertia, Gloriosa, Allamanda, Dipladenia, 
and other climbers will now be showing bloom. Keep the 
branches from getting entangled, but do not bein a hurry to 
train them until the flower-buds are of considerable size. As 
spring-flowering plants for the stove or for cutting there is not 
@ more useful class of plants than Begonias. Now will be a 
good time to commence with a stock for next season’s display. 
As they go out of bloom allow them a short rest in a rather dry 
house, when they may be partially disrooted and repotted, 
pruning-in any straggling shoots. Keep them close and syringe 
frequently, when they will soon commence growing. Abun- 
dance of light and a tolerable share of pot-room are neces- 
sary to insure fine plants. Above all, keep them a good 
distance apart that the fine foliage of some of the species 
may have full room to expand. As the plants advance, liquid 
manure may now and then be giyen. Their period of bloom- 
ing is from January to May. As a guide for selecting, it 
may be mentioned that Begonia nitida, cinnabarina, dis- 


color, manicata, ramentacea, and Martiana are all showy and 
easily grown.—W. Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

WE encouraged growing crops by forking, hceing, and sur- 
face-stirring, and kept up successions by small sowings. We 
have scarcely anything here upon whieh there has not beena 
fair run, except Leeks. A goodly lot were used for puddings, 
&c., but they seem at present at a discount for dishes, and yet 
few vegetables are better than large, mild, nicely-blanched 
Leeks. How it is we cannot say, but several scientific men 
have assured us that Leeks are as cooling for the blood as 
Onions are heating. Good Onions are now scarce, and eyen 
strong, long-necks of last year are useful for some purposes. 
We do not like to meddle with the transplanted Onions which 
we want to make large bulbs. The spring-sown will yield fine 
thinnings for soups and salads. 

Our orchard bonse has helped us well with fine Lettuces. 
It is just possible we may go to extremes, but in the space 
of a few weeks eight gentlemen who proposed making glass 
eases 2 or 3 feet from walls, have altered their plans so ag 
to make lean-to’s 10 feet wide inside. Were nothing else 
grown in the way of fruit except on the wall trees, what a fine 
opportunity would the enclosed border give for growing early 
salads, Potatoes, dwarf Peas, and other crops. If, as many in- 
tend, we were forcing even a hundred pots of Strawberries, 
where could be a better winter standing place for them? These 
lean-to roofs with good walking space beneath, except, perhaps, 
at the very front, provided there is a wall already, can be put 
up for less than a frame or pit with moveable sashes. The 
great advantages of the cheap lean-to are—first, the benefit of 
the protection of the wall and the heat stored-up in it; and, 
secondly, the large quantity of air enclosed, which heats slowly 
and cools slowly. To this might be added in moderately close 
houses, for ours are not by any means close, the quietness of 
the air within during very cold weather. A keen frosty wind 
does far more injury than the same amount of frost with a still 
air. Strawberry pots that stood in such a house were not in- 
jured, even those fully exposed. Several times in the coldest 
nights a little straw was strewed over the surface of most of 
the pots, but the plants left exposed seemed as perfect as 
respects the rooting, as those thus slightly protected. Had 
these pots stood out of doors unprotected we would not have 
given much for them. Hyen when standing close together in 
beds out of doors, it is amazing how effectual a slight covering 
is. As far as we recollect, in the dread winter of 1860—61, 
Mr. Rivers saved numbers of plants in pots by laying the 
pots and the heads on the ground and covering them all 
over with litter. The stores of heat in the ground thus come 
in as our heating medium. We have frequently had plants 
thus covered for six weeks, and when uncovered a day or two 
after the thaw the plants looked just as if they had been 
covered fora night. In extreme cases, how easy it would be to 
give a slight covering under a glass roof instead of out of doors ! 
We hope to see little glass-covered gardens eyen for early yege- 
tables. After last winter we cannot say much even as to 
Lettuces carried through the winter, except those on wide 
steep ridges, which stood well and have been and are useful, 
but even these were protected in the most severe frost with ever- 
green boughs and a little dry litter. The importance of these 
little matters is owing to the fact, that many will luxuriate ina 
nice salad early in spring, who will care nothing for it early in 
summer and onwards, just when we should imagine that it 
would be most useful if not most valued. Let anything only 
become rather common and easily obtainable, and with many 
people all its attractions are gone. 

As many of our enthusiastic amateurs are anxious to front 
their walls with sashes merely placed against them in the 
way of protection, we say, Do so by all means; but if we did 
so ourselves, instead of enclosing a foot or two, we would 
make the glass into a lean-to, and enclose 10 or more feet in 
width. The fixed lean-to with large squares would cost much 
less than the moveable sashes. Just think of the comfort in 
stormy weather of performing the necessary operations under 
a glass roof; and if one did not devote the enclosed ground 
to fruit, what a rich return could be obtained in vegetables all 
the spring months, and these always fresh just when wanted! 

We earthed-upa lot of our most forward Potatoes, though in ge- 
neral we donot consider it necessary, but chiefly that thus we may 
obtain more room for placing Cauliflowers, &c., between them. 


May 18, 1871. ] 


The cold north winds of late have tended to keep things 
backward that were proceeding in free growth after the rains. 
Some rows of forward Potatoes close to walls and fences we 
watered well, as little or no rain seemed to touch them. This 
will greatly help the tubering. To Potatoes under glass we 
give very little water, and we find the tubers better flavoured 
in consequence. The beds used for early Potatoes will, with a 
little turning and the addition of fermenting material, come in 
for late Cucumbers and Melons, &e. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Last week we noticed that the frost, not of the spring, but of 
the winter, had done more harm than we expected. Many 
little shoots of Peaches and Apricots that broke pretty well, 
and even set fruit, are now flagging and dying back. The 
heart of the shoot seems to have been injured. When pruned 
out, in most cases, there will be enough left. Sometimes a 
shoot seems injured merely in spots, others are injured half 
way through on one side, and others again have pieces on 
them seemingly dead quite through. When the latter is the 
case, all above them must go. When there are merely injured 
spots on one side, or not quite through the young shoot, the 
fruit above these spots will often ripen well, but it is advisable 
to replace these shoots with fresh ones from their bases next 
season. 

There are many strange eccentricities in the knowledge of 
most old gardeners as to the small channel of sound wood 
necessary to keep up the requisite circulation. In our obser- 
vations we have seen some of the finest and richest-coloured 
Ribston Pippins towards the extremities of branches that were 
so gnawed with canker, that in shoots 1} inch in diameter 
there could not have been above from 1-16th to 1-8th of sound 
wood in the centre, the bark and alburnum being all gone. We 
once had a Nectarine tree that bore good crops for years after 
the main stem was all gone, except a strip half an inch wide 
on one side, and live wood beneath it for about 1 inch in depth. 
To show, however, how variable these matters are, we may 
state that a twelvemonth ago, in winter, we had a beautiful 
Walburton Admirable Peach tree whiclt had its stem gnawed 
all round about 2 inches from the ground, and from 2 to 
3 inches in depth, by mice. As the gnawing did not go much, 
if at all, beyond the last season’s deposit of alournum or fresh 
wood, we were under no serious apprehension on the subject ; 
but we had the opening well filled with cow dung and clay, and 
bound all round with a cloth, expecting that in a couple of 
years at farthest, as we had often witnessed in similar cases, 
the bark would unite, and a fresh deposit of wood be formed. 
All went on well until the fruit, which we thinned more than 
usual, began to take the second swelling, and then, indepen- 
dently of shading, &c., the leaves flagged, the fruit dropped, 
and the shoots dried up. In this case we think that, besides 
the gnawing, there had been a sort of poisoning from the 
gnawing. There is always danger, therefore, when there is an 
interruption of the flow of the sap; but in this case, there 
being the bulk of the wood untouched, through which ths sap 
might pass, the result was not what we expected. Why mention 
it, then? Just honestly to show we cannot in such cases speak 
or predict with certainty ; all we can do is to call experience and 
observation to our aid. Thus, from our correspondents, we have 
received three different kinds of specimens of Peach shoots of 
last year’s growth. One lot is thoroughly dried up in wood and 
buds. With such nothing can be done, and if the tree is all 
the same, the sooner it is removed the better. The second has 
spots about an inch long, as if burned witha hot iron, but the 
spots are only on the outside of the shoot, not through it. 
Most likely the fruit set above these spots will ripen, but we 
would lay in a shoot from the base, so as to get rid of these 
marked shoots next spring. Others have rings of these burned- 
like spots right through, and in such cases everything above 
them must die. All this we attribute partly to unripened wood, 
but chiefly to the severe frost of the winter. Trees, however, 
will go wrong at times, and the best gardening doctors will be 
unable to find a reason or a cause. 

We turned a good many Strawberries out of their pots after 
cleaning them, removing fruit stems, &., hoping that they 
will give us a good return in autumn, and an extra crop next 
season. To have good fruit in autumn, the sooner the plants 
are turned out into good soil in May the better. Some of 
those we turned out first are now showing bloom buds. We 
think we are right in attributing the comparative scarcity of 
bloom out of doors to the frost injuring the buds, as the Straw- 
berry plants in pots under protection of some kind, never 


showed better bloom. We are glad to learn that the bloom of ' 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


357 


the Strawberry promises so weil in many places. Hereabouts 
there is comparative scarcity. Singular things, however, do 
happen. We heard the other day of a fine plantation of winter- 
standing Cabbages, and the garden in a hollow too, just where 
we should have expected them to suffer. In most places, how- 
ever, where the plants were at all forward, there was little left 
but a wreck. In the place referred to, though the Cabbages 
stood, not a Broccoli of any kind remained. 

Thinning Grapes.—It is the best economy not to leave too 
many bunches, and to thin these bunches, as soon as they can 
well be handled, with the scissors, and there is proof that th 
setting is fully accomplished. When thinned early there is no. 
necessity to touch much the berries that are left, and the less 
they are touched with the band or the sides of the scissors the 
better. We say nothing of pricking a berry with the scissors, 
for, of course, that berry will crack and do no good afterwards- 
The points of the scissors should be kept quite clean. Those 
not experienced should also use a little forked stick for holding 
the bunch. It should be touched by the hand as little as 
possible, and the touching with the hair of the head ought also 
to be especially guarded against. If these liltle matters are 
neglected a sort of rusting on the berries is apt to ensue. The 
crusting and rusting, though often attributed to this cause, is 
frequently owing to another and quite different one, and that is. 

Sulphur Fumes Overhot.—We have not a doubt that many 
of the clouded berries, and shrivelled-up and clouded young 
bunches, of which several correspondents complain, are owing 
to warm sulphur fumes and the want of sufficient ventilation. 
Daubing hot-water pipes, and even flues, with sulphur when 
the heat is little above 160° is one of the best means for keep- 
ing houses free of red spider. When the heat in the pipes rises 
to 180° and upwards, unless there be plenty of ventilation given, 
many things will suffer from the sulphur fumes, and Grapes, 
especially, when young and scarcely half the size of small peas. 
When they are larger the fumes have less ¢ffect. When the 
small berries become clouded they rarely recover ; even when 
the berry swells there is a cloud, arust, or encrustation that 
continues. Singularly, too, hardy though it be, there is nce 
Grape that suffers so much from this cause in its young state 
as the Black Hamburgh. We have had bunches affected whem 
those of Muscats, Sweetwaters, &c., were not at all touched. 
Whenever, therefore, under such circumstances the pipes with 
sulphur on them become rather warm it will be wise policy to 
leave a little air on the top ventilators. Altogether, in heating. 
by hot water, it is safest, best, and most economical in every 
way to have plenty of piping, and not to be compelled to over- 
heat it. We have known many cases where the saving of & 
couple of pounds in piping has secured an extra expense of 
£5 for fuel, and that or more every year. One of the most 
sensitive plants to sulphur fumes, even from hot-water pipes, is 
the Maiden-hair Fern. The fresh-formed fronds are easily 
destroyed. The extreme heat of hot water must therefore be. 
guarded against. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Mowing, machining, preparing beds and borders, and putting 
edgings in order, have formed the chief out-door work. We 
have commenced with Violets, dividing and planting, partly 
to stand and partly to lift again, as fully noticed in an article 
lately. All may be freely propagated by runners, either planted 
at once or placed under hand-lights or frames, but where plenty 
of plants are grown dividing is the process that involves least 
labour. Much time has been devoted to potting and cleaning 
Ferns, cleaning Azaleas done flowering, and moving them to 
where they could have a little heat and more sun, and the 
demand for more of such subjects, and less of a desire for Figs, 
have forced us reluctantly to take the Figs out of a low house, 
and devote it in the meantime to plants. For many years the 
Figs were a feature in the place. The plants had been turned 
out of pots into a pit, and, excluding drainage, never had more 
than 9 inches of soil, but fruited abundantly, often producing. 
three gatherings before we stopped, though we ought to have 
been satisfied with two. Surface-manuring, and plenty of water 
which could not stagnate, were the chief sources of success. As. 
we must geta lot of plants for corridors, now to be covered 
with glass, we could not well help ourselves, unless we had first 
had a range of preparatory houses. Asarule the preparatory 
houses are apt to be forgotten. Even for the palace and the 
mansion there must be the workshops, though unseen, and for 
fine conservatories there must be workshops, if the best re- 
sults are to be secured all the year through. A house to bring 
Azaleas into is of great importance, as there is always a risk in 
taking them to vineries and Peach houses. A few leaves 


358 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ May 18, 1871. 


affected with thrips may soon spread the evil, and cause much 
trouble. From a small Azalea plant thrips once spread to 
Vines, and it took us the greater part of two years to get rid of 
it. Though we had not seen a mealy bug for a quarter of a 
century, we got that on some Vines by merely placing a newly- 
brought-home softwooded stove plant among them. It is well 
to smoke Azaleas if there is the least sign of thrips, but in a 
house by themselves, warm water and a close atmosphere soon 
put an end to the insect.—R. F. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

*«.* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.’ By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, &c., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 

N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. 


Booxs (A Half-pay Sea Dog).—‘ The Cottage Gardeners’ Dictionary” 
and ‘‘Smith’s Introduction to Botany,” edited by Macgillivray, will 
qualify you to be a garden admiral. 


INDIAN AND AMERICAN SEEDSMEN (Glasgow).—We do not know where 
you could obtain lists of them. 


SEEDLING Pansies (IW. Gain).—The dark purple selfs are very fine 
‘The others are like many already in our borders. 


MEDICATED ToBacco Paper (H. T.).—We have several similar letters 
testifying to the superiority of other preparations, and are obliged to 
decline inserting any of them. 

CULTURE OF PLaNnts (Monmouth).—There is not one of the names you 
‘mention known as applied to plants. 


“Wo 1s A CorTaGErR?” (J. Leech.).—We might reply ag lucidly as 
was once replied by a contemporary to the query, ‘‘ Who is a lodger ?” 
** One who lodges.” So a cottager is ‘‘onoe who lives in a cottage.” Your 
aighth rule ought to prevent any doubt. ‘ Any cottagerat a rental of less 
than £10 a-year (for house and garden), not being either a market or 
jobbing gardener, will be allowed to exhibit in the cottagers’ class with- 
out an entrance feo.” A market gardener is one who lives by selling garden 
produce, and a jobbing gardener is one who lives by being hired by the 
-day or other short time to cultivate the gardens of various people; conse- 
quently, any one else living in a house for which and its garden he pays 
Yess than £10 a-year comes within your rule. 


Streppine Fruit Trees (A New Subscriber).—The spurs are those short 
‘stubby shoots that have clusters of leaves at their points in the case of 
Pear trees, and much closer together in the case of Plums. On the old 
stumps there will be spurs as well as growing shoots; the latter are to be 
stopped. In thinning Apricots you should calculate the whole extent of 
‘urfaee covered, and allow the tree to carry a crop proportionate to the 
whole. There is no reason why they should be more closely together in 
one part than another. Thinning should commence at once, going over 
them two or three times, thinning partially each time. Thinning may 
‘take place at-intervals of three weeks. 


Hargsroot Fern not Turivine (Kate).—You do notinform us whether 
the plant is in a pot or not, but we surmise that it isin a greenhouse. If 
so, pot it now, removing all the old soil that can be readily taken away 
without injury to the roots, and place it in a pot sufficiently large to hold 
the rhizomes, using a compoat of two parts sandy peat, one part light 
‘fibrous loam, and one part sandstone, in pieces from the size of a pea to 
that of a hazel nut. Good drainage is necessary. Place it in a rather 
shady position, keep the soil moist enough, and sprinkle it overhead 
occasionally, particularly in the evening. 


GRAPES ON VINE THE First Year (J. R. G.).—You may, if the Vine 
‘is strong, allow two bunches to remain this year, but if it is weak do not 
leave any. The Vine will not be injured by carrying a couple of bunches, 
ut all depends on its health and vigour. 


Vin5 Leaves Sporrep (E. J.).—The keeping of the bedding plants 
‘has nothing to do with the sad appearance of the Vine leaves, though the 
damp in the house might. The leaves are both burned and scalded, and 
‘we presume from the same cause, the neglect of early air-giving. As 
you kept the bedding plants there all the winter, you must have some 


mode of heating. Give alittle more heat at night, leave half an inch 
of air along the top of your house, and give more air early in the morn- 
ing, so as to get rid of alilconfined hot vapour before the sun becomes 
powerful. It is the early air, and not the quantity, on which you must 
depend ; opening a door, or pulling down a sash freely when the house 
-was steaming with hot vapour, would only increase the evil. All sudden 
<hanges must be avoided. Some amateurs that we know, who liked their 
beds too well in the morning to be first-rate gardeners, saved, at lengtb, 
their Vines and other pet plants from scalding by simply leaving a little 
air on at the highest point of the roof all night. 


Some VinE Bups BrEeakInc Too Earty (A Subscriber).—In such a 
case, if we wished the bulk of the latent buds on the Vines to start fairly, 
we would have rubbed off the few that started prematurely in November, 
as these, if allowed to take the lead, would most likely prevent the rest 
Starting at all. Of course, we do not know what caused the Vines to start 
a few buds thus unexpectedly, and circumstances would greatly regulate 
our decision. 


Vine LEAves Smart (D. M. Blackman).—We should say that under 
the circumstances the Vine is naturally weak and unhealthy. Such things 
will happen, and they are just as inexplicable as the fact that of children 
of the same parents, some are sickly and puny, and others healthy and 
robust. The puny child must be nurtured, if possible, into robustness, 
but when a plant defies the efforts of years, it is generally best to get rid 
of it and try another. 


Oyster SHELLS FoR Vine Sort (J. M.).—Oyster shells are very well} 
partly burned they help to keep the gronnd open, and s0 they do in their 


natural state. On the whole we should prefer to them old brick and 
mortar rubbish. Weshould not object to use them, but we think they 
have been too much lauded. 


GREENHOUSE AND VINERY ComMUNICATING (W. Roberts)—As your 
ground suits, you can hardly better your arrangement, only that your 
span-roofed greenhouse in front will shade your vinery a little, but not 
so much, as the span-roof will be all glass. The position of your boiler is 
good, and we certainly would divide the vinery into two, and heat each 
separately. A flow and return carried across the vinery at the division 
will enable you by means of a throttle valve to let heat in, or keep it off 
the greenhouse at pleasure. The late and early vinery will answer well, 
though with the same incline of roof. An angle of 45° will do well for 
both where there is little or no front glass, but where there is front glass 
of 3 or 4 or more fest, the roof glass may be much flatter. The position 
of your boiler could not be improved. 


AURICULAS, POLYANTHUSES, AND CHRYSANTHEMUMS (Sunny). — Every 
particular you ask for, and much more, is in “ Florists’ Flowers,” which 
you can have from our office if you enclose five postage stamps with your 
address: The details are too long for publication in our correspondence 
columns. 


_ MabDaME VAUCHER PELARGONIUM WEAK (W. F.).—The weak flowering 
is no doubt due to want of support. Young plants, as a rule, produce 
larger flowers than old plants, but are not so free in flowering. Repot 
them, and give a compost of turfy loam two parts, one part leaf soil or 
old manure, and one-sixth of sharp sand. When the plants have taken 
freely to the fresh soil, as you may know by the growth, water alternately 
with weak liquid manure, give plenty of air, and afford abundance of 
ight. 

PLANTS NOT FLOWERING (F. G.).—Philesia buxifolia requires to be kept 
moist, and when growing very moist. It should have a cool house, with 
plenty of air and light. A compost of equal parts of peat and loam suits 
it. In sheltered positions it is hardy. The plants require to be strong 
before they flower, and starving a plant to flower we do not commend; 
but determine the potting by the state of the roots, keeping the plants 
under rather than over-potted. Fuchsia spectabilis will now be growing 
freely, and should be shaken out of the pot and repotted, putting the 
plants into a size just sufficient to contain the roots comfortably; keep 
them rather close and shaded for a few days, and then afford a light 
airy position, shifting them into a larger pot by the middle of June. It 
ought to flower at the end of summer. Fuchsia macrantha should be 
kept at rest up to July, and then be repotted; only we should cut it back 
and not pot until the new shoots are a few inches long, repot it in Sep- 
tember, and keep it growing during the winter in a temperature of 45°. 
Desfontainia spinosa requires a cool house, and a compost of two parts 
loam and one part peat. with good drainage, and to be kept moist when 
growing. The potting should only be moderate. It flowers freely with us 
ina cool house. Bignonia jasminoides splendens requires to be planted cut 
in a greenhouse or conservatory border, and with patience—for it takes 
some time to ostablish itself—it is very ornamental. It does little good 
asapotplant. Psonia corallina, we presume you have planted out in 
the garden in a compost of sandy loam. The situation should be open, 
and it should have a top-dressing of decayed leaves in autumn. We do 
not know that it requires any particular treatment to induce flowering. 
Rhododendron Nuttalli requires a cold house, should be well supplied 
with water, and must have every encouragement to make vigorous growth 3 
then keep it airy and cool—indeed, it can never have too much air. The 
potting should be moderate. 


APPLE-TREE LEAVES WITHERING (A Constant Reader).—The leaves of 
the Apple appear to have been wetted with some compound, which may 
have been too strong, and so have destroyed the tissucs, otherwise we 
are unable to account for their falling. We think the insect enclosed is 
the caterpillar of the small Ermine Apple moth (Yponomeuta malivorella), 
which devours the leaves in spring and early summer. The only remedy 
is to destroy the caterpillars, which you may do by hand-picking. You 
will find them in the folded leaves, and at night you may take them feed- 
ing, examining the trees with a lantern. A solution of 2 ozs. of.soft soap 
to the gallon of water willalso destroy them, the foliage being made quite 
wet with the solution. 


Urrxistnc Boyes (E. B.).—Employing in the garden the bones from the 
house is a good idea. If this were done at every establishment, and their 
application to the kitchen garden were judicious, finer vegetables would 
follow. The bones would be best made into superphosphate, for which pur- 
pose they should be broken or bruised with a hammer on a hard substance 
so as to make them lie close together, and they cannot be made too small. 
For dissolving the bones you will need sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol), and 
of that not more than half nor less than one-third the weight of the 
bones, or for five stones of bones three of vitriol. The bones must first 
be sprinkled with water equal to one-half the weight of the acid to be 
used, and pour over them the sulphuric acid. When dissolved, which 
will depend on the quantity of sulphuric acid used, they may be mixed 
with fine ashes, which we consider the best mode of application to kitchen- 
garden ground. The superphosphate may be applied to every d-scription 
of vegetable crop. Eight bushels of dissolved bones with the acid in 
proportion are a sufficient dressing for an acre of ground. Mixed with 
ashes or soil, this xanure should be spread on the surface previous to 
sowing or planting, just pointing the ground over with a fork after the 
application, and so as to mixit with the soil. The dissolyed bones may 
also be diluted with fifty times the weight of the acid employed, calcu- 
lating a gallon of water to weigh 10 lbs. This liquid may be poured be- 
tween the rows of all vegetable crops, especially Peas, Cauliflowers, all 
the Cabbage tribe, Strawberries, Asparagus, &c. 


MEtons IN Ports (G. C.).—You can grow Melons in pots successfully in 
the pit house you specify. A good size is from 15 to 18 inches, though 
we have had good fruit from a 12-inch pot. Sweet loam, rather stiff than 
sandy, will answer best, and use little manure, and that sweet and rotten. 
We would rather depend on manure waterings when the fruit is set. In 
addition to the white-foliaged plants you name, Cineraria maritima is 
good either from cuttings or the second year from seeds. Arabis albida 
variegata is also good as a lowplant. Stachys lanata and Gnaphalium 
margaritaceum are good as rough hardy plants. One of the sweetest 
variegated plants—white, yellowish, and green—is Polemonium creruleum 
yariegatum. The leaves are light and feathery, and stand long when cut 
if placed in water. 


BuicHtr oN Currant TrEEs (S. F.).—We have been making inquiries 


May 18, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 


(St) 
Or 
ie) 


amongst the Kentish fruit-growers about the disease of which you speak, 
and we find that it is not unusual there, but not so prevalent this season 
as in some former years. It would appear to be caused by those sudden 
changes of temperature we have been subject to this spring, acting upon 
such trees as are least likely to endure them, and in 1469 the Black Cur- 
rants were much affected. In local phrase it is simply termed ‘the 
blight,” and is, we believe, the result of a sudden stagnation of the grow- 
ing powers of the plant, caused by unfavourable weather; and this affect- 
ing certain plants more than others, accounts for its attacks being some- 
what capricious, as even parts of plants are affected, the remainder 
escaping. We have the same thing in Apricots, and paralytic affections 
in animals afford a similar example. We are not aware of any remedy; 
the only preventive is good cultivation, keeping such disease at bay. 

Larcues DyInc on THIN Moory Sor (A. B.).—We fear there is no 
remedy for the evil of which you complain, excepting a heavy top-dress- 
ing of soil of another description, and as that may be inconvenient, we 
would recommend you to pay more attention to the Scotch Firs, which 
are better adapted for such a soil, and are certainly longer-lived trees, 
excepting where affected with smoke. If it be necessary to plant other 
trees on the site of those dying off, you might try Birch, as they and 
Scotch Firs are most suitable; but you may make it available for trees 
of other kinds by adding to it large quantities of soil of a more loamy 
character after removing or breaking up the hard gravelly bottom. Ex- 
cept for some special purpose, this can hardly be done to a large breadth 
of land. This, however, being a pounds-shillings-and-pence affair, you 
will be best able on the spot to say how farit can be done. Certainly a 
more satisfactory growth will take place afterwards. 


WATER CRESSES IN GARDEN BoRDER (T. C.).—In our No. 526, published 
on the 27th of April, there are full directions for their culture. 


EDGINGS FOR CLOTH OF GoLD AND Lapy CuLiumM GERaANIUMS (The- 
saurus).—For a bed of Cloth of Gold we would prefer a border of Purple 
King Verbena, or of Iresine Lindenii. With Lady Cullum a bright blue 
Lobelia would look well. We have also seen a border of Iresine Herbstii 
Set it off to great advantage when the Iresine was pinched and kept 
low, and large leaves encouraged. 


CUCUMBERS NoT SWELLING (W. B.).—“ The plants are healthy and 
strong, growing in a pit over a heated chamber, but scarcely any of the 
Temale flowers have the parts of fructification perfect, and out of about 
150 flowers only four have swelled their fruit.” We are ata loss to advise 
you, a8 you have given up syringing, emptied the evaporating pans, and 
given abundance of air. If we could add anything, it would be, Lessen 
the bottom heat. 
-are all perfect. We have had Cucumbers that were too strong to show or 
Swell fruit freely, but fruited very freely when they had less liberal treat- 
ment and the flush of vigour was past. There are vast differences in 
the Cucumber as to fertility. We have grown some fine sorts, beautiful 
£o look at, and which would do pretty well with a 20-feet rafter to ramble 
over, but which would fruit so sparingly on one of 6 feet, that they would 
be of little use where Cucumbers must be cut pretty well as freely as 
Cabbages. As the Cucumbers in the next pit fruit so freely, it is just 
possible that the kind that comparatively fails is less fruitful, or requires 
More room to attain a free-bearing state. The remedy in such a case 
would be to adopt the kind that does so well. In closely examining the 
two fruits and the flowers at the ends of them, in one the stigmas are 
wholly wanting; in the other, though not perfect, still they are not 
wanting. We are inclined to think the above are more the reasons for 
deficient fruitfulness than the imperfection of the reproductive organs, 
as, though no seed will be obtained, the Cucumber in general will swell 
more regularly, even when not fertilised. We have even, as an experi- 
ment, nipped off female blossoms long before they opened, and yet the 
fruit swelled and lengthened. 


Turips on CucumsBers (S. H. R. J. P.).—The only safe remedy is to 
Tumigate with tobacco, shutting up the frame and densely filling it with 
smoke. Fumigate on a calm evening, when the foliage is dry. Cover the 
glass with mats to keep in the smoke. It is well to preserve a moist 
atmosphere; it helps to keep down thrips and red spider, but it will not 
destroy them once they secure a hold on the plants. Be careful of the 
soft soap solution. We have known it, when of the strength named, 
destroy both Cucumber and Melon foliage. 


Insects (W. L.).—The insect which you have sent is the common Sta- 
phylinus (Creophilus) maxillosus, which feeds on worms and other soft- 
bodied insects, and ought not to be destroyed in your frames. (Hermit). 
—The pretty Weevils found on your Apple trees are the Polydrusus Mali. 
They possibly feed on the young buds and leaves, but we do not think 
they roll them up in order to deposit their eggsthere. (G. S ).—The small 
brown objects on the Pear leaf are the moveable cases made by the 
larve of a small moth, Coleophora Hemerobiella. Although they render 
the leaves unsightly, it is very rare that they are sufficiently numerous 
to be injurious.—I. 0. W. 


Names or Pants (A Constant Subseriber).—The tree with leaves downy 
beneath and white-blossomed is the Pyrus Aria, White Beam tree, and 
apparently the variety obtusifolia. (F, Z. P.).—Brunfelsia latifolia, other- 
wise Franciscea latifolia. (C. M.).—1, Prunus Padus; 2, Berberis Dar- 
winii. (A. R.).—Calceolaria Fothergillii. (F. A. C.).—1, Arbutus An- 
drachne; 2, Staphylea pinnata, the Bladder-nut; 3, Amelanchier cana- 
densis. (Heron).—1 and 8, monstrous states of Polystichum angulare; 
No. 1 appears to be near the form known as tenue; No. 3 to angustifrons; 
2 is a monstrous state of the Lady Fern, Athyrium Filix-foomina, 
near the form called Stansfieldii. (H. L. J.).—Blechnum corcovadense, 
(@. W. L.).—We cannot name plants from their leaves only. 


————— eee 
POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


REARING DORKING CHICKENS. 


T Have always been most fortunate in raising Dorking 
chickens, having lost but one chick in two years. My plan is 
as soon as their feathers are dry to give them a peppercorn, and 
for the first day or so feed them upon dry bread crumbs and 
hard-boiled egg chopped fine, sprinkled with a little black 


There may be an excess of vigour, as the male flowers” 


pepper, which warms their crops; a few days afterwards I 
moisten the bread crumbs with beer in the morning, and when 
they are a week old I give them ground oats slacked with beer, 
and occasionally greasy water or gravy, with a little meat or 
suet chopped fine, varying their meals with a few groats. I 
put a board under the coop at night to keep the chickens dry, 
and they have the run of the field all day. If‘'O. P. Q.” 
would like to try my method of raising Dorking chickens, I 
think he would not lose so many. The milk, I think, is apt to 
scour young poultry.—S. 8. 


HATCHING DISASTERS 


Aumost all my correspondents have been asking me this 
spring if I did not find it a terribly bad hatching season. I 
certainly have known better, the raw east winds having caused 
an unusual number of chicks to die in the shells at from a 
week to a fortnight old, and hens have been remarkably late 
both in laying and sitting; but with one exception I have not 
found matters so very bad as very many have evidently done. 
That exception is in several respects so singular that it may be 
worth relating. 

As I cannot afford to set my own birds till late in the season, 
I buy nearly all my broody hens, and very rarely have any 
trouble with them. I bought two very early in March, and set 
them the same day on ten eggs each, one of them being & 
common speckled hen with a top-knot, the other apparently a 
very small Dorking crossed with Game. They both behaved 
quietly enough for awhile, and having at the end of a week 
found and removed one sterile egg from one nest, and two from 
the other, I expected two good broods. I should say the two 
birds were sitting side by side, and appeared as friendly as 
possible. All, in fact, seemed to go well till a fortnight had 
elapsed, when the Dorking broke an egg, and two days after- 
wards another. From that time she broke no more, but I 
found the other hen minus an egg every day, not a vestige 
being left in the nest, so that I began to blame the rats, and 
became anxious for the result. Two days before hatching the 
Dorking became very restless, flying off the nest on my ap- 
proach, and leaving her eggs till nearly cold, which rather sur- 
prised me; and on Saturday morning, the chicks being due the 
same night, one went off for good, though her eggs were begin- 
ing to chip, leaving one chick actually hatched, but wet and 
nearly dead, in the nest. The other hen had now only five 
eggs left, three of which were hatched, and one breaking the 
shell. I took the Dorking’s chick into the house by the fire, 
and on my return found her in front of the other nest, eating 
the partly-hatched chick which she had drawn from under the 
other hen, and thus accounting for the mysterious disappear- 
ances of the last few days. i 

I soon sent the cannibal hen “‘ off the premises,” and felt in 
despair, the other hen being too small to cover all the eggs, and 
her own chicks being also nearly dead from the fuss, and need- 
ing her quiet nursing much. I had had three of my own 
hens broody a few days, but they had been penned till the fit 
was nearly over; still it was the only chance, and I took the 
best of them and put her on the Dorking’s eggs, now nearly 
cold. It would not do; she would not take to the nest, though 
she clucked and appeared broody again. The eight eggs were 
now as cold as they could be; but, mindful of past experiences, 
I took some warm water and put them in whilst I made a new 
nest for my hen in her own accustomed place. After about a 
quarter of an hour she settled down, and, with reviving hopes, 
I went to look at the eggs in the basin of water, which I had 
made fully 105°. To my surprise I found six of them now 
evidently alive, the heat having revived them, and they were 
at once given to the fresh hen, a very large bird, with good hope 
of success. The first she hatched was crushed to death, being 
very weakly, and the next three I therefore took away. The 
other two had not strength to break the shell, and I therefore 
assisted them out, keeping them in warm water till extrication 
was completed, in order to prevent tearing and loss of blood. 
One of them, in fact, was so nearly dead it did not even chirp, 
but lay down in the flannel nearly cold, and remained so some 
hours (being kept by the fire of course), but revived a little 
towards evening. 

I had now done with the large hen. My heart smote me for 
depriving her of the pleasures of maternity after she had 
served my turn so well, but she was so heavy I dared not trust 
the weakly chicks with her, and turned her off. The speckled 
hen had in the meantime hatched her remaining egg, and 
having fed her well to insure her keeping quiet, I finally, on 


360 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ Mey 18, 1871. 


Monday afternoon, gave her all the nine chicks, which repre- 
sented the salvage of the two broods. One I fully expected to 
find dead next morning, but, on the contrary, they all did well, 
and appear nothing the worse for the trials they have gone 
through. 

This cage is remarkable, not only for the unnatural appetite 
the Dorking had evidently acquired for ‘“‘ chicken in the shell,” 
but for the strong vitality of the eggs at so latea period. They 
were stone cold, and this occurring on the last day has usually 
been regarded as fatal. My own hopes were not very strong, 
and I attribute the measure of success to the use of hot water, 
which I had proved before to be of great efficacy after a long 
chill. It is the possibility of the hint being useful to some 
other amateur, who may be tempted to despair in similar cir- 
cumstances, that leads me to give this history of my most un- 
lucky hatch this season.—. Wricut. 


GREAT HARWOOD SHOW. 


I wan decided to let this matter drop, but the charges Mr. Hewitt 
makes in your Journal affect my position in society to such an extent, 
I cannot let them pass in silence. He says, ‘“‘ Mr. Ashworth, I find, 
was introduced to me by the Secretary, as the gentleman who would 
go round with me whilst arbitrating.” I beg to say that I never ex- 
changed a single word with the Secretary the whole day; therefore, 
could not be the gentleman introduced to Mr. Hewitt. I never per- 
sonally exchanged a word with Mr. Hewitt in the whole course of my 
lifetime ; therefore, I must bea perfect stranger ashe says. Secondly, 
My Blue Dragoons being Yellows when judged, I can only say that our 
cleverest and best of men are liable to make mistakes ; they certainly 
were Blues.—Joun AsuwortH, Scotland Place, Blackburn. 


ACCRINGTON POULTRY SHOW. 


Tus Society’s annual Exhibition of poultry, Pigeons, and Rabbits 
was held on the 11th inst. 

Single Game cocks stood the first on the list. A five-guineas cup 
was offered as a first prize, and the second and third prizes were also 
good. This was a splendid class of twenty-two entries. The three 
prizes were taken by Brown Reds; the first went to a fine bird with 
long snake-like head, hard and close in feather, but a little too light 
in breast to be perfect. The second-prize bird was a fine-coloured 
cockerel, a good bird throughout, and another year he will greatly im- 
prove, being a little too stilty at present. The third prize went toa 
capital bird in all points, scarcely inferior to that which won the first 
prize. There were some excellent Black Reds left out from want of 
prizes; amongst the most noticeable we may mention a remarkably 


fine bird exhibited by Mr. Chaloner, a model in shape, style, and | 


colour, though rather short in head, but a thorough contrast to many 
of the Brown Reds, whose chief characteristics are flat sides, drooping 
wings, and long crooked legs, with the only redeeming accompaniment 
of long heads and fine whip tails. Such birds are, happily, now going 
out of fashion, and giving place to the true type of a Game fowl. In the 
other classes for Game were some good birds, noticeably the first-prize 
Duckwings and the prize Brown Reds. 

Dorkings were a moderate lot, but at this season few are in show 
condition. Cochins were fine; the prizes we thought judiciously 
awarded. The first-prize Buffs were a splendid pair; the second-prize 
birds were of the most lovely lemon buff colour we ever remember to 
have seen. Mr. Sichel’s celebrated hen looked to us on her last legs, 
being very ill. The first-prize Whites were a magnificent pair. 
Spanish were very good, more especially the prize birds; and one pen 
from Bristol (484) was put in for sale at the moderate price of £3 10s, 
at which figure they soon found a claimant. We fancy they will be 
heard of again before long. Brahmas were good, most of the cracks 
competing ; the first prize, however, was clearly ahead of all the 
others. Hamburghs were good, but not so numerous as we are accus- 
tomed to find at a Lancashire show; it cannot be that these birds are 
scarcer than formerly in this part of the country. Can it be that the 
pace has become so hot that many exhibitors have dropped out of the 
race? In Golden-pencilled the competition between the first two 
pens was very severe, the quality of the pens being very evenly 
balanced. The first-prize pen in this class took the cup for the best 
pen of Hamburghs. Silver-pencilled were a good class. In Golden- 
spangled there was nothing remarkable, except the first-prize pen, but 
Silver-spangled were a good lot. The first-prize cock we remember to 
have seen repeatedly in the same position; in fact, we believe it is 
difficult to place him in any other, but his turn will come by-and-by to 
fall into the rear. Black Hamburghs were good. French fowls were 
few, but very choice; the first-prize birds were very large. Polands 
formed a beautiful class, the first prize going to Golden, the hen a 
wonder ; second and third to first-class Silvers. In the Variety class a 
pretty pair of Sultans were first ; second came a pair of single-combed 
Spangled birds, called Anconas, a sort of Spanish cross, and third 
Malays. Single Game Bantam cocks, for which a £5 5s. cup was 
offered as first prize, with £2 for the second prize, and £1 for the 
third, brought a fine array of twenty-three birds from the most noted 
exhibitors in the kingdom. All the prizes were awarded to Black Reds; 


| 8, W.R. Park. Silver-pencilled.—1, H. Beldon. 


the first, belonging to Mr. J. R. Robinson, was a very nice bird indeed, 
good in points, but in rather indifferent condition. The second and 
third were also good birds, admirably shown. In this class an exhi- 
bitor endeayoured to steal a march on his competitors, but his device 
found speedy and well-merited punishment; we allude to the disquali- 
fication of pen No. 581, exhibited by Frank Steel, of Marsden Hall, 
Burnley. The bird was found to have had many of his feathers artis- 
tically shortened with a pair of scissors with a view to improve the 
appearance of the tail. We hope this lesson may prove serviceable in 
deterring exhibitors from repeating such practices, for a prize obtained 
by such meaxs is nothing less than depriving another of what is his 
legitimate right, in addition to misleading intending purchasers. In 
the other classes of Game Bantams were some very good birds. In 
the open class Brown Reds, good in style but faulty in colour, were 
first, Piles second, and Duckwings third. In the Variety class of 
Bantams except Game, the first were pretty Pekins, second Blacks, 
and third a quaint pair of Japanese. 

The classes of Turkeys, Geese, and Ducks contained large and_good 
specimens. 

The Pigeons formed a fine collection, most of the standard varieties 
being represented, but the classification was not good. Carriers and 
Pouters were shown in pairs instead of as single birds ; while Tumblers 
and Owls had also only one class allotted to each, and the usual 
‘* Any other variety ” class was altogether omitted. ‘The entries were 
numerous, but with proper division, no doubt, double the number 
would have been obtained, and would have added much to the interest 
of the Show. We understand, however, that Mr. Holden, the courteous 
Hon. Sec. of the Society, contemplates a much-extended prize list for 
next year, consequent on the great success of the present gathering. 
The Carriers, Pouters, Tumblers, Barbs, and Owls were good. Dragoons 
were a mixed and uneven lot. 

There was an excellent show of Rabbits. 


GamME—Black or Brown Reds.—1, C. W. Brierley. 2, W. Boyes. 3, C. 
Chaloner. c, T. Statter, jun., Stand Hill, Whitefield. Hen.—1, C. W. Brierley. 
2, B. Bee, Gosnargh, Preston. 38, J. Poole, Ulverston. hc, C. W. Brierley; 
Master W. Fletcher; J. Smith, Accrington. Any other Variety.—1, C. Chaloner. 
2, Master W. Fletcher. 8, W. Boyes. Hen.—l and 2, C. W. Brierley. 3, Barker 
and Charnock, Ilingworth Moor (Duckwing). Any Colour.—Cock—i, C. W. 
Brierley, Middleton. 2, Master W. Fletcher, Stoneclough. 3, H. M. Julian, 
Hull. he, C. Chaloner, Whitwell, Chesterfield; W. Boyes. Local—Cock.— 
land 2, Morris & Wood, Accrington. 8, Eastwood & Hingle, Accrington. 

Dorxines.—l, D. Gellatly, Meigle. 2, J. White, Warlaby. 8, D. Parsons, 
Cuerden, Preston. he, J. Stott, Rochdale. 

CocHin.—Buf or Cinnamon—1 and 8, W. A. Taylor, Manchester. 2, T. Stretch, 
Ormskirk. he, J. G. Broxup, Burnley (2); J. Sichel. Any other Variety.—l, J. 
Sichel, Timperley (White). 2, T. Stretch (Partridge). 8, E. Leech, Rochdale. 

SpaNisH (Black) —1 and 2, C. W. Brierley. 3,J.J. Booth. he, G. Tonkin; H- 
Wilkinson, Earby; W. Wilson. 

BraHMas.—l, J. H. Pickles, Southport. 2, J. Ashworth, Rochdale. 8, H. 
Beldon, Goitstock. hc, J. Watts, King’s Heath, Birmingham. 

Hampurcus.—Golden-pencilled.1 and Cup, H. Pickles, jun. 2, H. Beldon- 
2, H. Pickles, Earby. 38, W. M- 
Mann, Kendal. Golden-spangled.—l, H. Beldon. 2,T. W. Walker,jun., Denton. 
8, E. ’. Gardom, Butterton Park, Newcastle, Staffordshire. Silver-spangled.— 
1, H. Beldon. 2 and 8, J. Fielding, Newchurch. hc, J. Cronshaw, Accrington. 
Black.—l, C. Sedgwick. 2, D. Lord, Stacksteads. 8, N. Marlor, Denton. 

Frencu Fow. (Any variety).—l,H. Beldon. 2,J.Sichel (Créve-Cceur). 8, W- 
R. Park, Melrose (Creve-Cceur). 

Pou~anpDs,—l and 2, H. Beldon. 3, T. Waddington, Blackburn. he, T. Dean. 

ANY OTHER Vanriety.—l, R. Loft, Woodmansey, Beverley (White Sultans). 
2, J. Kitchen, Blackburn. 3, Rey. A. G. Brooke, Shrawardine (Malay). 

SELLING Cuass (Any variety)—1l, J. J. Booth, Silsden. 2. H. Frankland, 
Church. 38, J. Leeming, Accrington. 

GaME Bantams.—Cock.—1, J. R. Robinson, Sunderland. 2, T. Sharples. 3, J. 
Blamires. he, G.Lodd; W. F. Entwisle, Westfield, Cleckheaton; T. Sharples, 
Rawtenstall. c,G. Maples, jun. Local.—Cock—1 and8, G. Anderton, Accring- 
ton. 2,A. Hargreaves. Black Reds—1,J. W. Morris. 2, F. Steel. 8, J. Gros- 
land, jun., Wakefield. he, W. F. Entwisle; Bellingham & Gill, Burnley. Any 
other Colowr.—l, W. F. Entwisle. 2, T. Aspden, Accrington (Piles). 8, W. 
Adams, Ipswich. he, E. Pickup, Lumb, Newchurch. 

Banas (Any variety except Game).—l, H. Beldon. 2, S. & R. Ashton, Mot- 
tram. 38,J.H. Pickles. he, J. Walker, Halifax; H. Pickles, jun. 

TourgEYs.—l, E. Leech. 2, J. Houlker, Blackburn. 3, E. A. Bennett, Burnley. 
_ GrrsE.—l,E. Leech. 2, T. Statter, jun. 8, S.H. Stott. c, J. Houlker, 

Docks. Aylesbury.—l, £. Leech. 2,S. H. Stott. 8,J.Smith. Rouen.—l, E. 
Leech. 2,J. Scotson, Lowton. 8, R. Pickles. Any other Variety and 2, C. 
W. Brierley. 8,H. B. Smith (Shelldrakes). he, S. H. Stott; S. & R. Ashton. 

Loca Crass (Any variety except Game and Game Bantams).—l, T. Holt. 
2, H. Frankland. 8, Morris u Wood. 

PIGEONS. : 

Carnriers.—l, J. Stanley. 2,H. Yardley, Birmingham. Ac, B. Consterdine, 
Littleborough; T. Waddington. 

TUMBLERs.—1 and 2, J. Ford, London. he, F. Moore, Burnley; W. Harvey. 

Barss.—l, H. Yardley. 2, H. Carwood. he, J. Stanley; T. Waddington. 

Owus.—1, W. Harvey, Sheffield. 2, H. Yardley. he, i. Waddington. 

P. uTERS o&8 Croppers.—l, W. Harvey. 2 and he, T. Waddington. 

Fantatts.—l, H. Yardley. 2, W. H. Tomlinson, Newark. hc, W. Harvey. 

Toursirs.—l, T. Waddington. 2, B. Consterdine. : 

Dragoons.—l, P. Unsworth, Lowton. 2,H. Yardley. he, A. Ashton, Middle- 
ton; ‘I. Waddington; W. Dugdale, Burnley; T. Charnley. 

Trumpeters —l, J. Cundale, Copt Hewick, Ripon. 2, W. Harvey. he, T. 
Waddington; P. Unsworth. 5 

Jaconins.—1 and 2, T. Waddington. he, J. Stanley; F. Moore. 

Nuns.—l, J. B. Bowden, Blackburn. 2, H. Yardley. he, H. Yardley; T- 
Waddington. é 

ANTWERPS.—1 and 2, R. Brierley. hc, F. Woodhouse; J. Crosland, jun.; J. 
Stanley; J. Cundale; J. Wright. 

Maaeriges.—1 and 2, W. Kitchen. hc, H. Yardley. 


RABBITS. 

SPANISH.—1 and 2, C. Gravel, jun., Thorne. 
Creeke. z 

Anaora.—l, M. S. Greenwood, Hebden Bridge. 
he, J. Boyle, jun., Blackburn. __ 

Hmranayan.—l, W. H. Tomlinson. 2, J. Butterworth. 
Rochdale. 

Srnver-Grey.—l, M. 8. Greenwood, Haslingden, 
Hardman. ‘ ee 

Any Varrety.—l, W. Higham, Middleton. 2, E. Vaughan, Birmingham. 


Jupers.—Poultry: Mr. Richard Teebay, Preston, and Mr. W. B. 


he, J. Irving, Blackburn; H. 
2, J. Butterworth, Rochdale. 
he, J. Schofield, 


2, J. Boyle, jun, he, G. T. 


as 


May 18, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


361 


Tegetmeier, Finchley. Pigeons: Mr. T. J. Charlton, Bradford. 
Rabbits: Mr. R. Teebay, and Mr. T. J. Charlton. 


NEW ENGLAND POULTRY DOINGS. 


In one of your November numbers I noticed something from Mr. L. 
Wright in relation to the New York State Poultry Society, and it may 
not be uninteresting to your readers to know that New England is not 
behind other sections of the country in her endeavonrs to bring poultry 
more prominently before the public. We have a very flourishing club 
in this state of Massachusetts (the New England Poultry Club), which 
numbers now some 250 members. We organised in 1865, and have 
just held our seventh annual exhibition. Our entries average about 
four hundred to five hundred pens, and we give cash prizes, although 
not large ones at present. We hope, however, to increase them as we 
grow stronger. We have a guarantee fund of some 400 dollars, are 
free from any debt, and have never made an assessment on our mem- 
bers. At our recent show we had probably the best collection of birds 
eyer brought together in this country. The Asiatics were so acknow- 
ledged by all the breeders present, and so close was the competition, 
that the Judges were unable tomake their awards after summing-up 
points for two whole days, and were then obliged to call in an additional 
Judge to assist them. The stock from the yards of Messrs. Boyle, 
Baily, Beldon, and others so familiar in your English shows were well 
represented by fine specimens, and received their respective awards. 

We confine ourselves to poultry and Pigeons, and receive no outside 
attractions for the purpose of drawing a large crowd, our object being 
to perfect poultry and extend a knowledge of it, and its utility among 
aS Ce eat Woopwarp, late Treasurer of New England Poultry 

ub. 


ACTION FOR THE LOSS OF A PIGEON. 


WHILE v. JENNISon.—The plaintiff, Mr. James F. While, of Bir- 
mingham, brought an action in the Manchester County Court, against 
Messrs. Jennison, the proprietors of Belle Vue Gardens, to recover 
£18, the value of a Black cock Carrier Pigeon, which had been lost or 
stolen while in the charge of the defendants. 

The plaintiff's Pigeon obtained the first prize at the Manchester 
Poultry Show in December. Other Pigeons belonging to the plaintiff 
were returned after the Exhibition had closed, but the first-prize bird 
was lost, and Messrs. Jennison seemed to have come to the conclusion 
that it had been stolen. The defendants alleged that they were not 
liable, because one of the rules of the Show set forth that all damage 
arising from accident, delay, fire, or other causes must be borne by the 
exhibitors, the whole of the stock being at their risk after being de- 
livered to the Seccetary or the servants of Messrs. Jennison. The 
defendants said they could not have taken greater care than they did; 
but it was alleged if they had exercised the same precautions that 
were observed at the Birmingham Show, the Pigeon could not have 
been lost or stolen. In reply to the Judge, it was stated that 7s. 6d. 
was paid by the plaintiff as the entrance fee for each Pigeon, but no 
part of that money was intended to reward the defendants for taking 
care of the birds. For the defendants it was urged that they were in 
the position of bailees without reward. The Judge said unless the 
plaintiff could show that Messrs. Jennison did not exercise ordinary and 
reasonable care they would not be liable. The plaintiff wasnon-suited. 

{There can be no doubt that the decision was correct. It was ad- 
judged long since in the case of Doorman v. Jenkins, that if an article 
was deposited by A with B, for the sole benefit of A, and without any 
reward to B, and the article was lost without any gross negligence on 
the part of B, he was not liable for the loss. Whether there was such 
negligence is always a question to be decided by the jury, or, in the 
County Court, by the Judge, if a jury is not employed.—Ebs. | 


Razzits.—Seventy years ago some domestic Rabbits were 
introduced upon Sable Island, a small sandy islet lying about 
a hundred miles off the Nova Scotia coast, and being left 
alone and not crossed in breeding, they have entered their feral 
state in liveries of beautiful silver-grey, with white collars, in- 
timating some remote affinities with bygone races.—(Nature.) 


THE FIRST HONEY DAYS OF 1871. 


Arrer a long and severe winter the month of March arrived, 
bringing with it a pretty bright sky, but cold easterly winds 
and frosty nights prevented the secretion of honey in flowers. 
April brought with it a dark murky misty atmosphere, and rain 
almost every day. The spring months of this year have been 
very unfavourable for honey gathering. The flowers of goose- 
berry, plum, and pear trees have been abundant; but owing 
to the inclement weather they were not much visited by bees ; 
indeed bees in this neighbourhood did little work out of doors 
till May 8th, when the weather became propitious. The syca- 
mores being in full bloom are yielding honey in considerable 
quantity. Two of our best hives were weighed on Saturday 
morning, one was 33 lbs., the other 36lbs. To day (May§S8tb) 


they have been weighed again, and found to have gained 17 lbs. 
—i.e., one 9 lbs., the other more than § lbs., say 3 lbs. per hive 
per day. Though late in coming, these honey days have been 
gratefully welcomed. A few more of such days will make our 
hives heavy, and enable many of them to send off swarms in 
May.—A. PETrTicREW. 


HERMAPHRODITE BEES. 


THE opinions of Professor Siebold on hermaphrodite bees 
are the same as I have myself arrived at. The degree of inter- 
mixture of sex is often very small, such as one of the antenne, 
legs, or eyes being of a sex opposite to that of the bee generally. 
The most remarkable cases I have met with were two bees which 
possessed the fructifying organs of the drone, and the stings 
of the worker. I thought the last specimen that I sent was 
one of this character, but it appears I have made a mistake in 
sending a wrong one. It is evident that these hermaphrodites 
do not remain long in the hive, but whether they are expelled 
by the bees, or make their own exit from the scene, remains 
yet tobe proved. The cause of this anomaly is, in my opinion, 
as in the case mentioned by Professor Siebold, that of the queen 
having become aged, many of the eggs having been only partially 
fertilised. In my present case it is different, the progeny being 
that of a young queen, and that the most prolific one I have. 
In this case it would seem to arise from an excess of sper- 
matozoz, or from the shape of the queen making it impossible 
for her when depositing an egg in a drone cell of too small a 
size, to pass the egg without allowing it to come into contact 
with the fertilising sac. I enclose a few more of these bees, 
one of which has two small auxiliary eyes instead of one; one 
of these being situated at the top angle and base of the left eye, 
the other being in the usual situation.—A LanarxsHirE BEE- 
KEEPER. 

[We are much obliged for the specimens sent, but we do not 
think we can again trouble Mr. Smith to make an examination 
of them. These monstrosities are by no means so uncommon 
as many people suppose.—EDs. ] 


Earty Swarms at Leppury.—Mrs. Apperley hived a fine 
swarm on May 1st; Mr. Lewis, at the Gas Works, on May 
6th; and Mr. Cox, New Street, May 7th. 


Hive Froors.—Some people put great stress on the material 
of which hives are constructed, but I never notice anyone turn- 
ing his attention to the floor of the hive, which, in my opinion, 
is of as much importance as the hive itself. If floors were 
made of charcoal or other absorbent nonconducting material, 
bee-keepers would find it a great advantage towards securing 
the health of bees during winter. I have in some cases used 
carpet, and have seen coal used with adyantage.—A Lanark- 
SHIRE BEE-KEEPER. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


DovstE Eee (T. EL. W.).—One egg within another as you describe is 
the usual mode of malformation. 

A Sirtinc PRopUCING onLY ONE CuHick (Dark Brahma).—The pur- 
chaser should have written to you civilly, and asked for your favourable 
consideration. He has no legal claim upon you. 

Dorxines (Henricus).—We fully detailed the chicken culture of Sussex 
and Surrey last year. 

CHICKENS PARTIALLY FoRMED IN THE Eaa (Sandy Scott).—We do not 
believe it is possible to tamper with the eggs so as to destroy the chicken 
partially, nor is it necessary. Wecan at once tell you the cause of your 
failure does not rest with the seller of the eggs. Either the germ of life 
in an egg must be preserved entire, or it must be destroyed totally. This 
latter was not the case. The life was developed and the embryo existed 
to a certain age, and was then destroyed. This destruction need neither 
have been wilful, nor the result of negligence on the part of those who 
had them in charge. With such weather as we have had it was enough 
for the hen to be absent from her nest in the morning for the cold, frost, 
and east wind to destroy the chickens. If you ask why all the eggs did 
not perish alike, their position in the nest would explain that. 

TovunousE GEESE (Siz-years Subseriber).—Toulouse Geese are remark- 
able for large size, and for the facility with which they fatten. They 
cannot be called sitters, although now and then one has deviated. They 
lay many eggs. One in our possession once laid sixty. 

SpanisH Cock’s Fack Scary (Pat).—We believe with you that sun is 
detrimental to the faces of Spanish fowls, and we know that to prepare 
them for hard competition they should be shut up in a dark place; but 
there has been very little sun in our parts, and a very fine bird we have 
shows many such spots. Although the hens may not cause them, they 
continue them by picking, and will eat away the entire white * sac” if 
they are left alone. We find with one exception the cock always recovers 
when removed from the hens. The exception is when the discoloration 
is caused by a weeping from the eye. The liquid discharged would seem 
to burn in its progress. 

Cocuiy Puntr1’s Lavine (Lemon Buff).—It is unusual—one-third 
double-yolked eggs, but the consecutivelaying for thirty-one days is mora 


362 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ May 18, 1871. 


so. Laying double eggs is injurious to a bird, and reveals a state of in- 
ternal disease, which, if the bird be a valuable one, should be remedied 
Castor oil should be given freely, a table-spoonful every other evening. 
It would be well to follow this with Baily’s pills. 


Brauma HEN nor Lavine (Subscriber).—Your hen is, beyond a doubt, 
out of order—very like'y too fet. We think sheis £0 fat internally that 
the functions of the body are interrupted, and the passage almost stopped. 
This would account forthe inflated crop. The treatment will be the same 
as that of the former case, but it will have to be continued longer. She 
will not be well till she is cleared of her fat. Feed on ground oats or 
barleymeal in the morning, some scraps midday, and mealin the even- 
ing. Feed scantily, and avoid all made foods of every kind. 


ASCERTAINING THE FERTILITY OF AN Eae (Serafina).—It can be seen 
at the end of four days whether an egg is fertile. It is only necessary to 
look through the egg from a dark place into a strong light. The contri- 
vance of our fanciers and breeders of former years, was to take the sun as 
nearly as possible at meridian, to shut themselves in a dark stable or out- 
house, and close the door with the exception of a crack. The two hands 
were then put together telescope fashion, with the egg at the extremity 
brought to the crack in a line with the sun. The eye was then applied to 
the other end of the improvised telescope, and sought the sun through 
the egg. If it be fertile, and life has begun, there is a dark streak visible 
in the yolk. If at the end of four days everything remains in sta‘u quo 
there is no nope of achicken. If achicken has been formed, and is dead 
in the egg, there is fault with the hen or her masters. 


Hens 1x Two Hunprep Square Yarps (Alpha).—You cannot do better 
than have Brahmas. If you have non-sittera, you must give up all idea 
“of a fowl now and then for the table.” They will not eat lawn cuttings. 
If they get too fat feed them less, and if they have no grass, let them 
have as often as may be convenient some large sods of growing grass cut 
with plenty of mould. If you make up your mind for non-sitters, try 
Spanish or Créve Cceurs, the latter we think the hardier. 


A FoUR-CLAWED AND A FIVE-CLAWED CHICKEN IN OnE Eac (F. P.). 
—That which you relate was denied for many years, but has now oc- 
curred so often it ranks among admi ted facts. Although it is unthankful 
evidence, we should look askew at the parent of a four-clawed Houdan 
Sports and freaks will occur, as, for instance, a Dorking may come four 
claws, or a Hamturgh with five, but there is always the suspicion of a 
“bad cross,” and that the fault is inherited from it. 


REARING YounG PartTRIpGES (Subscriber)—There is no difficulty in 
rearing Partridges. They are hatched to take self-care. Let the hen be 
in her rip in a dry field, a grass field is best. Mow a place in front of the 
rip 2 yards square. Keep them well supplicd with fresh water, and feed 
them with bread and milk, chopped egg, curd, and bruised wheat. You 


may at times give some dough mixed dry enough to crumble when thrown 
own. 


Eac-EatTinc Hens (Despair).—It is an unnatural propensity, and has 
arisen from neglect and from the want of proper feeding and attention. 
All the hens do not indulge such a depraved appetite, and half the eggs 
are gone. Kill the peccant fowls, and place all the remaining eggs under 
the virtuous ones. When convenient, send them all to the cook. If you 
are in difficulty about this, shut them in very low baskets where they 
cannot move, keep them there till they hatch, taking them out once 
every day to feed. 


Various (W. B. I.).—It is not necessary nor desirable for Black Red 
Game Bantams to have partridge markings on the wings; the hen will be 
better without them. Itis not necessary that an Antwerp Pigeon should 
have a black beak. 

Sex oF Eees (Idem).—The question of the sex of eggs goes back to 
Columella. The moderns have tried to discover the “real thing.” The 
result has been that it is heresy to deny that pointed eggs contain cocks 
and round ones pullets. Just as the possessor of the philosopher’s stone 
was always the poorest man in company, so the last man who understood 
the sexes of eggs in our presence picked twelve pullets, and out of them 
(Houdin outdone) produced twelve cocks. 


Sitck Picton, &c. (West View) —Has notyourDragoon the roup? Has 
he no discharge from his nostrils and mouth? Warmth and hempsecd 
are best. We know of nothing that will make your hen keep longer to 
her chickens; it is unfortunate, as the chickens are sure to be the worse 
so early in the year. If the hen absolutely leaves them put them at night 
in a warm coop on straw, and cover over the front with mat or carpet. 
You can breed one year from the same strain without injury. 


PoIsoN INSTANTLY KILLING Mice (An Original Subseriber).—“If you 
had read my article more carefully you would have noticed that the mice 
so instantaneously killed were not in my Canary’s cage, but in the cageof 
‘a lady.’ I have, through a friend, put myself in communication with the 
lady, who says the poison used is called ‘ vermin-killer,’ and sold in this 
neighbourhood, but I do not know it. The points of the story which 
struck me were the adroitness with which mice will get intoa cage, and 
the care to be used to avoid their inroads.— WILTSHIRE RECTOR.” 


Canarias (W., St. Leonards-on-Sea).—Brent’'s “Canary and the British 
Finches” contains all that you inquire about. You can have it free 
by post from our office if you enclose ls. 7d. in postage stamps with 
your address. 

A Strong Stock nor Worxine (EZ. Mills)—Your hive seems to have 
lost its queen. If you can procure a small piece of comb with eggs or 
brood of a suitable age, insert it among the brood combs of your hive, 
and your bees will most probably raise a queen. If you could obtaina 
fertile queen, and could introduce her successfully, of course you would 
gain a considerable amount of time, but the first plan is the most simple. 
Wecould not reply to your query in time for last week’s issue as you 
requested, 


Hive not WorkinG (E. H. R).—Your hive has most probably lost its 
queen. If it is populous give it a small piece of brood comb containing 
worker eggs or very young lary@, and the bees will most probably raise a 
queen. If a moveable bar hive the process is very easy; but if not, you 
must turn the hive up, and in the best way you can cut outa piece of one 
of the central combs and insert the piece of brood comb. 

RussisH Cast our oF A Hive (A Novice).—The specimen of the rub- 
bish sent seems to consist of the débris of granulated honey, scales of 
wax as dropped from the bodies of the workers, and the excrement of the 
lary of the wax moth. There was also one of these grubs in a very 


thriving condition. The fact of the bees being busily engaged in dragging 
out this refuse from the hive induces us to advise you leaving them alone 
at present. If the state of things should, however, not improve in the 
course of two or three weeks perhaps you will communicate with us again. 

ARTIFICIAL SwWARMING (Idrone).—It may be aid down ag an unalterable 
rule that the hive which contains the old queen should always occupy 
the original stand. This applies, whether you remove a single comb 
with the queen on it and place it in a new box, or whether you make 
an artificial swarm by taking out suitable brood combs with a sufficient 
number of bees in order to raise queens. 

Bees DESERTING Hive (B.).—From some cause or other your swarm 
had lost its queen, which will account for their desertion. Those bees 
you saw when you lifted off the cover were probably stragglers from the 
swarm or from other stocks. We cannot understand why you removed 
the central frames to give room for the bees to cluster; at any rate it 
was a great mistake. Your hive did not require any dressing to induce 
the bees to remain. 

BEE-KEEPING—BexE Spectres (E. S. P., jun., Penzance).—The large bee. 
sent is the female of Anthrophora acenorum, the other is the worker of 
the common hive bee, Apis mellifica. Without knowing your capabilities 
as a bee-keeper we cannot advise you as to the sort of hive best for your 
purpose. It is not advisable to allow swarms of the current year to throw 
off swarms, but rather to check the propensity if it should manifest itself. 
Bees can be kept away from any garden. A room or loft may do very 
well, but there is often more uncertainty as regards the securing of 
swarms. We would not advise your keeping them in a loft over a stable 
occupied by horses. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN SquaRE, LonpDon. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Date. 9 a.m. Ix THE Day. 
oretal| | Shade Tem-| Eadiation | 
1s71. | 39—=| Hygrome- | pirec-| Temp.|” perature. | 2°™Pera- | 
B22 Ba ter. tion fot of Goi |e | Sa bnre aay é 
May. |3.43] Wind. | at 1 ft. In | On 
Q32=7| Dry. | Wet. Max.| Min.| sun. | grass 
Inches.| deg. | deg deg. | deg.| deg.| deg.| deg.| In. 
We. 10 | 30.217 | -47.5 | 44.3 51.3 54.6 | 38.1 | 85.7 | 85.4 = 
Th. 11 | 80.155 | 45.8 | 41.9 50.3 56.3 | 41.4 | 900 | 40.9 = 
Fri. 12 | 30.044 | 48.7 | 45.5 49.9 63.5 | 35.0 |111.6 | 33.2 = 
Sat.13 ) 30,014 | 46.2 | 423 51.2 423 | 70.2 | 42.8 = 
Sun.14 | 29.876 | 49.4 | 44.0 D 50.3 40.2 |108.9 | 40.5 = 
Mo. 15 | 29.889 | 51.0 | 44.7 S.E. 60.8 88.8 |112.2 | $9.1 = 
Tu. 16 | 29.860 | 56. | 49.4 | N.W. 51.3 | 87.2 | 109.6 85.2 = 
Means | 80.008 | 49.3 | 44.6 50.7 58.8 | 89.0 | 98.8 | 88.2 = 
REMARES. 


10th.—Cold and dull all day but no raia, gleam of sunshine at 4.30 pM. 
11th.—Cold, dry, and fine. 
Eo dull, and cloudy in morning, fine afternoon, and cloudy at 
night. 
13th.—Dull and cold morning, fine afternoon. 
14th.—Sunshine and very bright at intervals, fine day. 
15th.—Bright morning, hot sun, and fine day. 
16th.—Warmer, fine day, but few drops of rain about 4 p.m. 
The week has been rainless except a few drops on Tuesday, colder than 
last week, and rather below the average of the time of year.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—May 17. 


AN active market for rough goods has somewhat raised the prices, and 
large quantities are still going north to the local markets, such as Cab- 
bages, Carrots, Turnips, and other spring vegetables. Importations have 
been moderate, the bulk meeting with a ready sale. Among other things 
this day we have received Strawberries and Cherries from France an@ 
Spain, but they are scarce worth quoting in the list yet. New Potatoes 
have seen very much in price, now selling in the retail shops at 2d. and 
4d. per lb. 


FRUIT. 

s.d. 8s. d 7 dog. & 
Apples.... 1 6 to8 0 | Mulberries...........-Ib. 0 0%00 O 
Apricots 0 0 O O| Nectarines. doz.12 0 24 Q 
Cherries..... - 0 0 O O0| Oranges.. #100 6 0 10 o 
Chestnuts... 0 0 0 G/| Peaches.. doz. 12 0 24 @ 
0 0 O 0} Pears,kitchen . doz. 00 0 9@ 
0 0 0 0} __ dessert... doz. 00 00 
8 0 15 0| Pine Apples. 5 60 100 
0 0 2 O| Plums.... 00 00 
-Ib. 2 0 2 6} Quinces.. 00 0 oO 
Gooseberries .. uart 0 8 1 0| Raspberries. sO OOO 
Grapes, Hothouse.... lb. 6 0 12 Q| Strawberries . ope) Gm on OF 
Lemons.......-.6-. #100 6 0 10 0} Walnuts... 2 10 0 16 O 
Melons....csceeessseach 6 0 12 0 ditto......s000ee2100 1 0 20 

VEGETABLES. 
s.d. 8. d 8. d. gs. d 
Artichokes ..-......doz. 4 0to6 0 0 4t00 & 
40 80 LFORz5 0 
20 30 a 
00 00 o2 00 
, ...doz, 20 8 0 76 100 
Broccoli ........ bundle 0 9 1 6 00 00 
Brussels Sprouts..sieve 0 0 0 0 80 60 
Cabbage............ doz. 1 0 2 0 09 10 
Capsicums .. #100 00 OO 20 40 
Carrots..... bunch 0 8 1 0 ARO a0, 
Cauliflower SedozseSie OeSanO, Kidney. sees--dO 8 0 4 0 
Celery...... ..bundle 1 6 2 0} Radishes..doz.bunches 0 6 1 0 
Coleworts..doz. bunches 8 0 6 0| Rhubarb..........bundle 0 4 0 & 
--each 0 6 1 6] Savoys. -doz 00 00 
-doz. 0 0 0 0| Sea-kale. basket 0 0 00 
..doz. 2 0 0 0] Shallots ---1Ib 06 O09 
bunch 0 8 0 0} Spinach. bushel 2 6 4 0 
seeee lb. 0 8 O 0} Tomatoes -. doz. 00 00 
- bunch 0 8 @ OQ} Turnips .......... bunch 0 9 1 6 
«bundle 8 0 65 0! VegetableMarrows..doz. 0 0 0 0 


May 25, 1871. } JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 363 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Day | Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s | elocks Day 
ain Woate MAY 25—81, 1871. | ture near London. i years.) Rises. Sets. Rises. Sets. | Age. isunealvear! 
| | ) } 
| Day. |Nigh" Mean,| Days. |m. h.|m. h |m. h.|m. h.| Days. m. 8. G 
25 | TH | Royal Botanic Society’s Show opens. | 65.4 | 42.9 | 542 | 16 58 af3 | 56af7 | 43afS | lsafO |. 6 3 23) 145 
26 | F Royal Botanic Society’s Show closes. 67.4 | 42.8 | 55.1 19 57 3/58 7) 51 9/51 0] 7 3 17 | 146 
oT |S ; z 66.5 | 44.7 | 55.6 BQ 56% 18) SOT A TLL eae) 3 il) 147 
28 | Sun | Warr Sunpay. 68.1 | 444 | 562 | 15 | 55 3] 0 8| after. | 38 1) 9 3 4 | 14 
29 | M War Monpay. 675 | 44.1 | 55.8 15 | 54 3) 1 8) 36 1}59 1) 10 2 57 | 149 
30 Tu Levgth of night 7h. 51m. | 68.4 | 44.7 | 56.6 | 17 58; 13 | Vil hoy hres ae Ptr walls] 2 49 | 150 
81 W Meeting of Society of Arts, 8 P.M. | 69.4 | 44,8 | 57.1 | 16 Be). 1B} | 8. 8h |'20 4-4 | 38 8 | 12 | Q 41 | 151 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 675°, and its night tem- 
perature 441°, The greatest heat was 91°, on the 28th, 1847; and the lowest cold 25°, on the 29th, 1865. The greatest fall of rain was 
0.97 inch. 


PERPETUAL OR TREE CARNATION 
CULTURE. 


will be far enough advanced to be plunged in a position 
out of doors, but before turning them out see that no green 
| fly remain on the plants. This pest, and the red spider, 
HAN the above I do not know any more use- are the only enemies which I have seen attack the Carna- 
ful plants for furnishing cut flowers for but- tion in pots. Fumigate with tobacco smoke for the green 
ton-holes and bouquets late in autumn, in fly, and remove the red spider as soon as it appears with 
winter, and early in spring; and as I have the syringe. In dry weather, whether red spider attacks 
been successful in keeping up a succession of the plants or not, it will be beneficial to syringe them once 

flowers from them during the above periods, | or twice a-day. : i 

and haying a plentiful supply of them at When the plants have grown about 9 inches in height 

Christmas, a few remarks on their culture pinch-out the point of the leading shoot; this will cause 

and general management may be useful. three or four shoots to break out, which should be tied to 

They are a class of flowers which are | neat sticks as they advance in growth. When the pots are 
generally grown, but from what I have seen and heard | tolerably full of roots abundant supplies of water will be 
the winter supply in many cases has not been abundant. | required by the plants. If watering is neglected the oldest 
Some of the varieties are not so well adapted for winter- | leaves will turn yellow prematurely, which will make the 
flowering as others, so that to be successful with them it is plants look naked when they are removed. A span-roofed 
necessary to obtain the proper sorts, and it is quite as | pit or greenhouse is the best place to remove them to in 
necessary to propagate a fresh lot of young plants every | winter, and to have a succession of flowers during this 
year. To have them in flower early in the autumn the period the plants should be kept near the glass in a house 
cuttings must be taken off about the first week in February. | with a temperature of from 50° to 55°, as well-developed 
The small side shoots make the best cuttings; insert from flowers cannot be obtained from plants growing In an 
nine to twelve of them in a 5-inch pot in a compost of loam | ordinary greenhouse. I generally remove three or four 
and leaf mould in equal parts, with a large proportion of | plants at a time to the forcing house, and as the flowers 
silver sand. They will soon strike if a temp2rature of from | are required, fresh supplies are brought in from the green- 
55° to 60° can be obtained, especially if they are plunged house. After the 1st of April the flowers expand freely in 
in a gentle bottom heat. a greenhouse temperature. : 

As soon as the young plants begin to grow pot them The following varieties I have found good for winter- 
off singly in 3-inch pots, plunging them again in the flowering—viz, La Grenade, scarlet; Boule de Feu, bright 
bottom heat, if convenient, until fresh roots are formed, | red, slightly flaked with white; Gloire de Lyon, a very 
and as soon as the plants are well established they will fine crimson flake; Queen of Whites, an excellent free- 
succeed best in a cold frame. Of course care must be flowering variety of good habit; and Ascot Yellow, the 
taken with these as well as any other plants not to remove best in this class. Prince of Orange is said to be good, 
them from a hot to a cool position too suddenly, so as but I have not proved it sufficiently ; it is of more robust 
to check their growth. Tree Carnations succeed best in) growth than Ascot Yellow. If very large flowers are 
the following potting materials:—Turfy loam three parts, required grow Souvenir de Malmaison, a flesh-coloured 
leaf mould one part, and rotted frame manure one part, flower, and Madame Adéle Calmeto. Of this variety a 
with the addition of some silver sand, more or less of flower before me measures 3 inches across, blush, flaked 
the latter according as the loam is of a light or heavy with rose, but the flowers are somewhat rough in outline. 
nature. Proserpine, scarlet, in the way of, but a superior flower to, 

Small sticks should be placed to the plants at an early a Grenade; Gloire de Montpensier, a full rose flake: 
stage of their growth, and admit air very freely to’ and The Bride (Turner), a very fine flower, pure white, 
them in fine weather, entirely removing the lights from and clove-scented; it should not be confounded with The 
the frame so that the plants may be kept short-joimted Bride, a fringed white flower of bad habit and much 
and robust. Repotting should be attended to before the | inferior. 
plants become potbound. I do not advise shifting them Of recent varieties White Nun and Maiden’s Blush are 
into very large pots for flowering them in; 6, 7, and_ true perpetuals, the first-named is superior to Queen of the 
8-inch pots are the most suitable sizes. Some of the | Whites, having a smoother edge. Maiden’s Blush is also 
varieties being more robust in their nature will require the | desirable variety. Another flower which will be very 
largest size. I have at the present moment in 6-inch valuable for early spring forcing has been raised by Mr. 
pots plants with from nine to a dozen fully-expanded W. Lee, who also raised White Nun and Maiden’s Blush ; 
flowers on each, and they were shifted into those pots itis the new forcing Pink Princess Louise. The flowers 
last year in August. The plants that are in flower now, are very large, of a bright red colour, and are quite dis- 
and those which will continue to supply a succession of tinct from anything of the kind yet seen. 
flowers throughout this and the next month, were from) There are, doubtless, in the hands of other growers 
late-struck cuttings. as good flowers as those which I have named above. 

If convenient, a few cuttings should be struck about the Some that I have seen named in the gardening papers I 
first week in each month, from February to May inclusive. | have failed to obtain. If any of your correspondents can 
About the first week of May the earliest-struck cuttings add anything to the above either as regards culture or 

No. 530.—You. XX., NEw SERIES No, 1182.—Vou. XLY., OLD SERIES. 


wo 


the best sorts to cultivate, it would be extremely useful toa 
large number of your readers.—J. Douctas. 


STRAWBERRY PROSPECTS. 


SEEING remarks in reference to the prospects of the Straw- 
berry crop by your correspondents, ‘ R. F.” and ‘ E. W. R.,” 
at pages 293, 317, and 320 of Tor Journat or HorvicuLTURE, 
and as ‘‘ R. F,” wishes for others interested in the cultivation of 
the Strawberry to state what their prospects are for the present 
season, I at once went over my plantations to see what chance 
we had of a crop in the present year. Like your correspon- 
dents, ‘‘R. F.” and ‘EH. W.RB.,” I have been successful in 
producing heavy crops of Strawberries for many years. In 
1863 and 1865 I gave full particulars in the Journal respect- 
ing my mode of growing this fruit, and each-succeeding year 
we have been progressing and improving. 

Daring the last three extraordinarily dry seasons our crops 
have been immense, and while those of many of our neighbours 
in all directions entirely failed our crops were never better. 
We have three plantations, and my practice is to destroy one 
plantation every year, and make afresh one. The one which 
was planted last August contains six varieties, and every plant 
without exception is showing an abundance of fruit. Tclipse, 
a favourite prolific variety, is averaging about ten or twelve 
trusses to each plant onthe new bed. The two-year-old planta- 
tion also promises well; and the three-year-old one, I have no 
doubt, will be equally prosperous. 

My practice is to dig deeply and manure freely, putting 
pleaty of foldyard manure at the bottom of the trench. How- 
ever deeply the manure is dug in, ths roots will find it, and this 
supports them against the contingencies of dry seasons. The 
first runners which I can obtain I have layered in 48-sized 
pots, and as soon as they are well rooted they are planted in 
their final positions. When the plants are in bloomI give 
them a thorough soaking of manure water. This tells con- 
siderably on the bulk of the future crop. After each ga‘her- 
ing, or at least when the beds have all been gone over, if the 
weather is dry the beds are drenched with clear water. This 
we can do with perfect ease, as we have pipes laid from large 
tanks in elevated positions, and by attaching our indiarubber 
hose and turning on the water the work of irrigating the whole 
of the plantations can be performed by a boy with very little 
trouble. After the plantations are first formed I never again 
have the ground disturbed with either fork or spade. The 
ground is kept clean with the Dutch hoe, and the runners are 
not allowed to remain on the plants unless they are required 
for propagating. 

I differ from your correspondent ‘‘ E. W. R.” with regard to 
planting those plants which have been forced in-doors one 
season, I have frequently tried them, but never found them 
do so weil as fresh runners of the current season. 

With regard to sorts, I have tried many, but my favourites 
are Eclipse, Dr. Hogg, Sir J. Paxton, and Cockscomb. Mr. 
Radclyffe I have grown, it is good in flavour, but not in other 
properties satisfactory.— Quintin Ruan, Pleasley Vale Gardens, 
Mansfield. 


PRIMULA CORTUSOIDES AMG:NA CULTURE. 


Ty consequence of the hurried manner in which I wrote the 
remarks respecting Primula cortusoides amcena, at page 303, 
I forgot to put in the specific name of cortusoides. Your corre- 
spondent ‘‘J. R.,” is, therefore, quite right in supposing the re- 
commendation given has reference to that variety. 

In reply to ‘J. R.,” page 332, respecting the kind of soil I 
use for the growth of these plants, I may state that I did not 
make up any particular compost for them, but made use of 
some already mixed for bedding plants. I happened to havea 
quantity of soil mixed, as I was about potting-off a lot of Gera- 
niums from their store pots. I am not very particular about 
the exact proportions of the soil I use for these plants, but in 
order to give an idea of its general character, I may say that it 
consists of about three parts loam, one part rotten dung, one 
part leaf mould, and one part sand, and the whole is passed 
through a coarse sieve. It did not contain any peat. As 
before stated, I had a quantity of this mixture lying on the 
potting-bench, and I made no addition nor alteration. I divided 
the plants in the way described in my former paper, I put each 
piece in a 6-inch pot with some of this soil, and the roots very 
quickly took to it, and were running round the inside of the 
pots. Since writing I have repotted the whole in 8-inch pots, 


64 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ May 25, 1871. 


as I advised at page 303, making use of the same kind of soil 
as before, and I may remark that this was exactly a repetition 
of the treatment and soil used in previous years with the same 
good results. 

The general character of the soil about Didsbury is not of 
that black peaty nature noticed by ‘J. R.,” but is of a light 
sandy nature resting upon a bed of gravel. and in many places 
not more than 5 or 6 inches in depth. To the south of Man- 
chester the soil is just what ‘‘J. R.” describes; but Didsbury 
is to the south-east, and the character of the soil is totally 
different. 

In order to test the hardiness of Primula cortusoides amcena, 
I have planted some out in the borders. I did thisin February, 
at the time I divided the plants, and shall, therefore, next 
winter be able to decide the matter. I have already, however, 
had experience enough to convince me that they are com- 
paratively useless for culture in the open air, at any rate so far 
north as Manchester ; for although the plants grew moderately 
well and had flower stems nearly as fine as those in pots, yet 
the delicacy of the flowers and the size ef the truss were such 
that they were unable to stand the rains or the cold east winds, 
but were completely spoiled as soon as the blooms were fairly 
opened. It is just the same with that fine hardy plant Dielytra 
spectabilis. Seen in a greenhouse in March, it is one of the 
most beautiful plants that can be placed there, while those oui- 
side are torn to ribbons by the merciless winds. It is in the 
cool greenhouse that Primula cortusoides amcena is seen in 
all its beauty, and if it were possible I would recommend it 
even more strongly than I did before. I find that it requires a 
considerable amount of moisture while growing and blooming, 
for it very soon shows signs of distress if the roots are allowed 
to become at all dry. 

I can assure your readers that there is no difficulty whatever 
in growing this plant, and I have fully and freely related the 
whole of the practice as it is followed by myself, and which has 
resulted in such gorgeous displays of bloom. I may state that 
this plant was introduced into England from Japan by Messrs. 
Veitch, and was first shown by them at the International Ex- 
hibition, South Kensington, in 1866. A small plant was shown 
under a bell-glass. I made a note of it at that time, and after- 
wards purchased a plant, from which the whole of my stock has 
been obtained. I do not know whether it produces seed or not. 
i have seen none, nor have I heard of any, though I have 
examined some of the best catalogues to see if could find it ; 
but plants are cheap enough now, as they can be had for 3s. 6d. 
each, and they are easily increased by division.—THos. JONES, 
Gardener to J. E. Taylor, Esq., Didsbury, near Manchester. 


THE CUCUMBER AND MELON DISEASE. 


Hayine been a sufferer for several years from the above 
disease, I can sympathise heartily with those growers who can 
neither get rid of it nor cure it; and as I have been free 
from it the last two seasons, I thought, on reading Mr. Fish’s 
remarks in the Journal of April 13th, that an account of the 
method by which I prevented this plague would not be unac- 
ceptable to your readers. Like Mr. Fish, I tried every remedy 
I could think of as likely to be of any use—fumigating with 
tobacco, with sulphur in the house in which the infected plants 
had been grown, dusting the plants with sulphur, lime, and 
tobacco powder, getting fresh seed, and planting in fresh soil 
brought from a distance, but all to no purpose. At length I 
thought the disease might have been caused by the liquid ma- 
nure made from sheep dung with which the plants had been 
watered, and I determined to try the effect of discontinuing the 
use of it. Ihad ihe old plants destroyed, the house and pit 
well washed all over with soft soap and warm water, the walls 
whitewashed, and plants raised from seed planted in soil com- 
posed for the greatest part of good, light, turfy loam, with a 
small quantity of manure, sand, and leaf mould; the Melons 
in turfy loam alone. I had them watered and syringed with 
clean water, warmed to the same temperature as the house, 
pit, or frame in which the plants were grown, and by these 
means I have quite got rid of the plague. 

Since I first had any experience of this disease I have been 
of opinion that it is similar in its character and effects to the 
Potato disease, and while there was a trace of it in house, pit, 
or frame the infection or contagion always reached the young 
plants in other houses or pits, and the brown spots appeared 
on the leaves generally when the plants had reached the frnit- 
bearing state: hence the necessity of destroying all infected 
plants, and well washing and thoroughly cleaning all structures 


May 25, 1871. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 365 


in which Cucumbers or Melons have been grown before begin- 
ning with young plants.—Witi1am Wairrarer, Crewe Hall, 
Cheshire. 


A FLORIST'S GARDEN. 
S. M. TANDY, ESQ.’S, DUBLIN. 

I sez in my rambles many a garden. I see some whose 
noble owners know no more of their contents than is implied 
in seeing the plants that decorate their dinner table, or the 
fruits that form their dessert. I see others into which if you 
go during nine months of the year you will see nothing but 
bare beds and frames full of small pots, but which in June 
burst forth into a blaze of scarlet and yellow, suggestive of a 
Hindoo’s bandana. I see others through which the owner care- 
lessly saunters, but knows nothing of the flowers that tend to 
make them beautiful; and others, again, where each flower-is a 
favourite which no rude hands must spoil, and only the dainty 
fingers of the fair owner must tend. But after all (but this 
may be simply the raving of a bigoted old florist), I know of 
no garden which gives its owner such constant enjoyment as 
that of the florist. The man must be a florist who owns it; 
he cannot delegate to any gardener however skilful the care of 
those pets which he tends, and, indeed, few gardeners know 
much about them, and among some of the best specimens of 
florists’ gardens is the one of which I now write. 

Let it not be supposed that Iam writing about any grand place, 
with magnificent grounds or elaborate ranges of glass—no! 
Mr. Tandy’s is simply the garden attached to a semi-detached 
villa in one of the pleasant outlets of Dublin, and yet he has 
made No. 4, Appian Way, well known in the Dablin horticul- 
tural world, and has established for himself a name as one of 
the first florists in Ireland. This may seem to bea large word, 
but I will adduce proof that I speak advisedly. His garden is 
not, certainly, altogether a quarter of an acre, and yet he has 
managed in this to cultivate flowers with which he has beaten 
in fair and open fight the largest nurserymen in Dablin and 
gentlemen whose means are unlimited, and who could put his 
whole garden into their Grape houses alone. This garden is 
never empty. In spring it is gay with Hyacinths, Tulips, 
Anemones, and Ranunculus, while in summer it bursts forth 
in flaunting yellows and dazzling scarlets, as in duty bound in 
these days of bedding-out, so that it never fails to have interest 
in it both for the initiated and the multitude. 

The Hyacinth is a flower which is here cultivated with a zeal 
and success I have not seen amongst amateurs in England. At 
our metropolitan shows the distance between the growers and 
amateurs is always very great, but in Dublin the amateur beats 
the nurseryman, and the flowers staged by Mr. Tandy would 
not disgrace Mr. Cutbush’s, Mr. W. Paul’s, or Messrs. Veitch’s 
stands. This is attained by an amount of perseverance that does 
great credit to himself and his experienced gardener. Last year 
a Hyacinth Show was originated at Dublin, and in this Mr. 
Tandy carried all before him; but this year it was not at- 
tempted, and Hyacinths were shown at the exhibition on April 
20th. It was no little difficulty to keep them back till that 
time, but so carefully were they managed that the Society’s cup 
again fell to Mr. Tandy, he beating, as I have said, both nursery- 
men and amateurs whose means and appliances were tenfold 
greater than his. One thing which especially marked the good 
cultivation displayed was the erect stiff character of the foliage, 
and this when it must have been necessary to so much retard 
the flowers and shade them. The varieties grown included all 
those which are prizetakers at the London shows. The pots 
used in Dublin differ very much from those used here, being 
very deep and narrow. I am not sure that they do not better 
suit the Hyacinth, the roots of which travel deep in search of 
nourishment rather than wide. 

I have already alluded to Mr. Tandy’s collection of Auriculas 
as haying gained for him the first prizes at the Dablin Show. 
Ii is one of which the owner may well be proud, comprising as 
it does numerous plants of the very best varieties in growth. 
The Dublin florists have long been famous for their Auriculas. 
My memory travels back to times when Dr. Plant was facile 
princeps, but fine as his collection was, it could not be compared 
with this; for although many of the old flowers still hold their 
place, although I have never since seen, or ever hope again to 
see, such Booth’s Freedom or Heys’s Apollo as I used to see 
with him, yet were there no grey-edged flowers in those days 
to compete with George Lightbody or Richard Headly, while 
here there were numerous plants of these and other varieties 
of well-known character—Chapman’s Maria and Sophia, Cheet- 


ham’s Lancashire Hero, Read’s Miss Giddings, Leigh’s Colonel 
Taylor, &¢. There was one fault connected with his style of 
growing which he will be able to remedy before another season 
—the leaves and footstalks were somewhat drawn. This arose 
from the necessity of shading from the sun, and from the want 
of a house to bloom the plantsin. He intends erecting one, 
and will, I have no doubt, experience the comfort and benefit 
of such a structure—the comfort, because you have all your 
flowers under your eye at the same time; and the benefit, 
because you can shade by either whitening the glass or putting 
tiffany over it. Isaw with him and my brother some flowers 
I had not previously seen—Pohlman’s Garibaldi, Lightbody’s 
Sophia Dumaresque, Cunningham’s John Waterton, &., about 
which I may have to say more by-and-by. 

The Gladiolus is another of Mr. Tandy’s favourites, and this 
he cultivates under special difficulties. It is well known that 
it requires a change of soil, probably more than other flowers 
that are grown; indeed it ought not to be grown in the same 
place more than once in threeyears. Now inso small a garden 
as his, this is simply impossible. It is remedied, however, by 
taking out the earth from the beds and refilling them with 
fresh soil each year; and so effectual has this been, that the 
first prize for thirty-six blooms was taken last year by Mr. 
Tandy from his three small beds, beating growers who had 
much larger collections and more ample space than he had. 
He can do something, too, with Asters, while his Chrysanthe- 
mums comprise most of the best varieties in growth. 

I have said enough to show that in a small space of ground 
a great deal of enjoyment may be had by a thorough florist, 
and that it need not be a chaos of disorder as some would 
assert, and I could only wish that we had more such gardens 
around London. I sigh over the times that are past, and hope 
for some brightness in the future. I should add that while 
Mr. Tandy is assisted by a thoroughly practical gardener, when 
he is not at home his garden is watched over tenderly by a 
pair of black eyes that will not let much escape them.— 
D., Deal. 


DAMSONS. 


Mr. Tuos. Rivers writes in your last number, page 349, 
‘« This sort is the Prune Damson, larger and superior in flavour 
to all others.” In Mr. Rivers’s catalogue for 1870 he writes 
thus under the head of Damsons: ‘' Prune.—Oval, small; a 
great bearer, and much esteemed in the north.” ‘‘ Cluster or 
Crittenden.—Roundish oval; a variety which has been recently 
brought into notice for its goodness and extraordinary fertility ; 
it forms a charming and fruitful pyramid.” Mr. Rivers having 
a most fertile pen, often, as I think, writes without stopping to 
consider what he has written formerly. It is certainly rather 
provoking, after one has bought a stock of the Crittenden 
Damson, to find him writing up another which he has himself 
rather disparaged in some catalogue. I have found it thesame 
in his Pear list and subsequent writings. May I ask some 
explanation through your pages ?—INquirER. 


PIGMY ROSE TREES FOR TABLE DECORATION. 


Amone the other subjects which we use at the present time 
for table decoration, we find these very useful. From our first 
batch of Tea varieties in March, and as soon as the flowers 
were cut, we took off a lot of cuttings and put them in pots, 
placing aboat a dozen round the side of a 5-inch pot. Kept in 
a genial bottom heat they quickly rooted, and as scon as they 
began to push we potted them off in small pots. After they 
were potted-off we kept them still in a gentle bottom heat, and 
for the last three weeks we have been using nice little plants, 
the same as one I forward.—Rosrerr Mackenar, Hlvasion. 


[The specimen is very effective, about 9 inches high, has 
a single stem with one flower on its summit, and is well- 
furnished with leaves to the base.—Eps. ] 


SPARROWS ATTACKING WisTarrA.—Your correspondent is not 
singular in finding sparrows attacking his Wistaria. About 
three years ago I was rejoicing in the glorious promise of bloom 
which my Wistaria was giving for the first time, and in the 
pride of my heart I took a friend out to see what the tree would 
be. Alas! to my dismay, I found what had two days before 
been clusters almost ready to open were mere budless spikes. 
The sparrows had stripped off every flower, and left nothing 
but the stalks to show what had been. Since that time I have 


2 
oO 


66 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ May 25, 1871. 


always put threads over the Wistaria just as I do over my 
Gooseberry and Currant bushes. My friends had just begun 
their work this year, but I was in time to stop much mischief. 
I believe that they pluck the buds for the sake of the moisture 
which they afford, as it is in the driest weather that the attacks 
are made. I am always obliged to thread my Crocuses and 
Primroses in the same way, the little marauders breaking these 
off, andleaving them scattered on the ground, unless some pre- 
ventive measures are taken.—H. G. Merriman, Guildford. 


CRYSTAL PALACE SHOW. 
May 20rz, 


Karey has there been a more successful May Show at the Crystal 
Palace than that held on Saturday last; the weather was favourable, 
the attendance large, and the subjects exhibited nearly if not quite as 
numerous as in past years, while in some instances there was a great 
advance towards perfection. 

for fifteen Stove and Greenhouse Plants, Mr. Baines, gardener to 
H. Micholls, Esq , Southgate House, stood far in advance of all com- 
petitors, with specimens which for excellency of culture and brilliant 
effect have never been equalled at any show which we have seen. They 
were simply perfect, and whatever differences of opinion there may be as 
to large versus small specimens, there could be none as to the superiority 
of the former when exhibited in such perfection as Mr. Baines has done. 
On this occasion his plants were Erica ventricosa coccinea minor 
+3 feet in diameter ; Eriostemon neriifolium ; Epacris Eclipse nearly 
5 feet high, and quite 4 feet across; Azalea Stella, the finest specimen 
ever seen of that brilliant variety; white Azalea Magnificent, quite 
5 feet high, two Ixoras, Hedaroma tulipiferum, Boronia pinnata, 
Aphelexis macrantha purpurea and humilis rosea, Mriostemon densi- 
floram, Erica Cavendishii, beautifully furnished; Clerodendron Bal- 
fourianum, and Anthurium Scherzerianum with sixteen large spathes 
and three advancing. With Mr. Baines’s collection in the eye, it is 
hardly possible to do justice to those which were shown against it in 
the same class, the one throwing the others so completely into the 
shade; nevertheless, Mr. Chapman, gardener to J. Spode, Esq., 
Hawkesyard Park, Rugeley, sent a collection containing excellent speci- 
mens of Pimelea spectabilis rosea and mirabilis, Bougainvillea glabra, 
Azaleas, Epacrises, and Chorozema varium nanum. The third and 
fourth prizes went to Mr. Wheeler, gardener to J. Phillpott, Esq., and 
Mr. Peed, gardener to Mrs. Treadwell, Lower Norwood. 

In the nurserymen’s class for ten, Mr. Williams, of Holloway, was 
first with Azalea Empress Engénie, a very large plant and a dense 


mass of blossom; Boronia pinnata ; Azalea Chelsoni, fine ; Anthurium | 


Scherzerianum; Clerodendron Balfouriarum, and other good speci- 
mens. Messrs. Jackson & Son, Kingston; Mr. Morse, Epsom; and 
Mr. Cutbush, Barnet, where the remaining prizetakers. 

In the amateurs’ class for ten, Mr. Ward, gardener to F. G. Wilkins, 
Esq., Leyton, was first with a very fine collection, in which we par- 
ticularly noticed Tetratheca ericefolia, Dracophyllum gracile, Aphe- 
lexis macrantha purpurea, Statice profusa, large, and in great per- 
fection, promising to last the season in bloom; Chorozema Chandleri, 
Hedaroma tulipiferum, and Clerodendron Balfourianum. Mr. Peed, 
Mr. Carr, gardener to P. L. Hinds, Esq., Byfleet Lodge, and Mr. 


G. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart., M.P., Regent’s Park, | 


took the remaining prizes. 

In the class for six Fine-foliaged Plants, the first prize was withheld, 
and a second was awarded to Mr. Carr, extra prizes being given to Mr. 
A. Wright, gardener to C. H. C. Roberts, Esq., Regent's Park, and 
Mr. R. Laing, gardener to P. L. Flowers, Esq., Tooting. Several of the 
exhibitors appeared to have misapprehended the terms of the schedule, 
and exhibited flowering plants along with ornamental-foliaged plants, 
instead of the latter alone. 
remarkable. Groups arranged for effect came from Messrs. Rollisson, 
Messrs. Carter & Co., Mr. Foreman, gardener to W. Wright, Esq., 
Denmark Hill, and Mr. J. Woodward, gardener to Mrs. Torr, Ewell, 
and comprised a great variety of plants. In our own opinion the best 
effect was produced by Mr. Woodward's arrangement, though the 
plants were neither so numerous nor so valuable as those from the 
other competitors. Viewed from the opposite side of the transept, the 
white-flowered Dentzias and the hanging-baskets of Ferns at once 
arrested the eye, and the effect of the whole was very graceful. 

Heaths were numerously shown, mostly by the same exhibitors as 
those who were at Kensington on the previous Wednesday, and in 
most cases the plants were identical. Ventricosa grandiflora and 
magnifica, tricolor Wilsoni and elegans, tortiliflora, elegans, Spenceri- 
ana, perspicua nana, and Beaumontia were well represented in several 
collections. The prizes went to Messrs. Jackson & Son, Mr. Morse, 
Mr. Ward, Mr. Peed, Mr. Carr, and Mr. J. Wheeler. 

For Azaleas, in the nurserymen’s classes Mr. Williams was first for 
eight, with, among others, fine specimens of Napoleon III., Countess 
of Stamford, Eulalie Van Geert, and Alba Meliora. Small plants 
from Messrs. Dobson & Son had a third prize, the second being with- 
held. Messrs. Lane were first for six, but the plants were not up to 
the mark of those which Messrs. Lane usually exhibit. Among 
amateurs the prizes were taken by Messrs. G. Wheeler, J. Wheeler, 
W. Chapman, and Peed, who had well-grown plants in good bloom, 
but not calling for special remark. 


Those shown were good without being | 


Pelargoniums were for the most part the same as those shown at 
Kensington, with a few additions; Mr. Ward, gardener to F. G. 
Wilkins, Esq., Leyton, was first in the amateurs’ class, Mr. James 
second, and Mr. Foreman third. Of nurserymen, Messrs. Dobson and 
Sons, Isleworth, were the only exhibitors, taking first prizes for both 
Show and Fancy varieties. 

Of Roses, Mr. Turner, of Slough, and Messrs. Paul & Son, of 
Cheshunt, exhibited in the class for ten, in 13-inch pots, two of the 
most magnificent collections ever seen. That from Mr. Turner, ad- 
mirably arranged as his wont is, was altogether remarkable, such was 
the size of the specimens and their abundance and perfection of bloom. 
They were Miss Ingram, Duchesse de Caylus, John Hopper, Victor 
Verdier, Souvenir de Malmaison, Paul Perras, Général Jacqueminot, 
Anna Alexieff, and Madame de St. Joseph. It would be vain to heap 
on these superlatives—they stood out grand examples of our finest 
pot Roses. Messrs. Paul & Son had a second prize fora collection 
which in some respects scarcely yielded to that just noticed—a par- 
ticularly even lot scarcely so large as specimens, but also in magni- 
ficent condition. Of the varieties of which this consisted, we may 
signalise Charles Lawson, Senateur Vaisse, John Hopper, Malle. 
Therése Levet, and President, but there were others nearly equally 
good. For twenty and twelve varieties respectively, first prizes were 
taken by Mr. Turner and Messrs. Paul with plants which, though not 
so large as those just noticed, and not so full of bloom, were admirable 
for the size of pots in which they were grown. After these the Roses 
in the amateurs’ class, as they always are, were poor. Mr. Gold, gar- 
dener to H. Dorling, Esq., Stroud Green House, Croydon, was first ; 
Mr. James, gardener to F. Watson, Esq., Isleworth, being second. 

Orchids were not very numerous, though there were several fair 
collections, and although there was no retrogression there did not seem 
to be any advance. For eighteen Mr. Burnett, gardener to W. Terry, 
Esq., Peterborough House, Fulham, was first, with good examples of 
Cypripedium Stonei, barbatum, and villosum, Cattleya Mossi, Lelia 
purpurata, Foxbrush Aérides, Saccolabium retusum, and Phalenopsis 
Liiddemanniana; Mr. Wright, gardener to C. H. C. Roberts, Esq., 
being second. For ten Mr. Ward was first, Mr. Birmingham, gardener 
to G. B. Arnold, Esq., South Norwood, second. From the former 
there were good examples of Oncidium Lanceanum, C. serratum, 
Anguloa Clowesii, and others; whilst Mr. Birmingham had a fine 
specimen of Dendrobium nobile, Lelia purpurata, and Oncidium 
sphacelatum. Mr. J. Wheeler was third. In the nurserymen’s class 
Mr. Williams stood alone. Cypripedium candatum in this collection 
had twelve flowers, and with it were C. villosum, Vanda suavis, Aérides 
Fieldingii, a splendid Phalenopsis Schilleriana, and Saccolabium 
retusum, with four fine spikes. In the amateurs’ class for six, the 
awards were made to Mr. Woodward, gardener to Mrs. Torr, Mr. Peed, 
and Mr. Burnett. The first named had a remarkably fine example of 
Trichopilia suavis with three dozen flowers. 

Among the miscellaneous subjects were beautiful boxes of cut Roses 
from Mr. William Paul, also baskets of new Pelargoniums; Waltham 
Bronze and Marchioness being very striking, and together with these 
was Waltham Bride, with white flowers and white-edged leaves, which 
has before been frequently noticed as a desirable variety. Princess 
Beatrice Rose from the same exhibitor again received a first-class 
certificate. Messrs. Dobson & Son, of Isleworth, sent a fine collection 
of herbaceous Calceolarias; Messrs. Lane, one of Rhododendrons 
which was very effective; Messrs. Downie, Laird, & Laing, a collec- 
tion of Caladiums and other fine-foliaged plants; Messrs. Carter and 
Co., a similar group; Mr. Emmett, gardener to H. Piper, Esq., West 
Dulwich, a collection of Fuchsias and standard Azaleas. First-class 
certificates were awarded to Mr. Williams, who exhibited a choice 
collection of new plants, for Adiantum asarifolium, Gymnogramma 
Pearcei, Rhapis humilis, Yucca de Smetiara, and Senecio argentea, a 
neat silyery-leaved plant. The last named, from Messrs. Downie and 
Co., also received a similar award, likewise Tropeoluam Mrs. Bowman, 
which was shown at Kensington three weeks previously. Mr. Turner, 
of Slough, had a first-class certificate for Pelargonium Chieftain, one 
of the show varieties, soft rose, the upper petals crimson edged with 
rose, the throat white, a very pretty variety of excellent shape. In 
front of the orchestra were two octagons of bedding plants, charmingly 
arranged by Mr. Gordon, and an oval group of fine-foliaged plants by 
Mr. Williams, of the Crystal Palace. 


A ELORIST’S NOTES AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE. 


A cranp Show and a lovely day tended to make this a most at- 
tractive Exhibition, while all the arrangements were of that complete 
order which characterises everything connected with the Crystal Palace 
Shows; especially was this the case with stove and greenhouse plants. 
I do not believe that such a collection of plants as that staged by 
Mr. Baines was ever before exhibited ; but with these I have nothing to 
do, I simply have to write of those flowers for which prizes were offered 
by the Metropolitan Floral Society—Tulips and Pansies. It was 
a great pleasure, although the competition was not very great, to see 
these fine flowers once more asserting their position, and I am con- 
vinced that it only needs an earnest effort on the part of florists 
generally, to insure the increased cultivation of these once-highly- 
yalued fayourites. 

In the class for thirty-six Pansies, the first prize was taken by 
Messrs. Downie, Laird, & Laing, for beautifully smooth and well- 
finished blooms of A. Downie, Rey. H. Dombrain, Alexander McNab, 


May 25, 1871. J 


De Foe, Joseph Jenner, Yellow Queen, Allan Ramsay, George Muir 
head, Imperial Prince, Cupid, Robert Burns, Prince of Wales, M. A. 
Buchanan, Jesse Laird, J. B. Downie, &e. Mr. Hooper was second 
with, amongst others, Village Maid, Blackbird, Le Grand, Lord 
Derby, Prince Teck, and Mr. Gladstone. They were not at all equal 
in quality to those which Messrs. Downie & Co. exhibited. Mr. James 
was third, with neat but small blooms. In Fancy Pansies, Messrs. 
Downie, Laird, & Laing exhibited a fine stand, comprising Mr. Suther- 
land, Mrs. R. Dean, Mr. Davidson, Grand Condé, and Agnes Laing. 
In the class for twenty-four Pansies, amateurs, Mr. James took the 
second prize. His blooms although neat were very small, while in the 
class for twelve Fancies, there was no competition. 

In the class for thirty-six Tulips, Mr. Turner was first with a mag- 
nificent collection, comprising splendid clean blooms of Polyphemus, 
Dr. Horner, Aglaia, Sarah Headly (Headly’s), Adonis (Headly), a 
beautiful flower; Vivid, Duchess of Sutherland, Triomphe Royale, 
and others of the very best character. Nothing could exceed the beanti- 
ful cleanliness of these flowers, while their size and freshness were 
equally conspicuous. Mr. Hooper, of Bath, was second with a col- 
lection not very well staged, comprising some good flowers, but a very 
far way behind those exhibited by Mr. Turner. 

In the class for twelve Tulips, the first prize was taken by Mr. 
Mercer, of Hunton, near Staplehurst, with some nice, clean, although 
small blooms of leading varieties; and Mr. Norman, of Plumstead, 
was second with small flowers, which, however, exhibited a good deal 
of want of freshness, doubtless owing to the locality in which they 
‘vere grown now being so completely surrounded by buildings. I wish 
we could see a little more of the floricultural spirit that exists in the 
north disseminated amongst lovers of flowers in the neighbourhood 
of London, and then these exhibitions of cut flowers would greatly 
increase in importance.—D., Deal. 


ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S MEETING. 


Tue May meeting of the Entomological Society was held on the 
ist inst., Professor Westwood, V.P., in the chair. Amongst the 
donations to the Society’s library received since the last meeting were 
‘the publications of the Royal and Linnean Societies of London, and 
the Societies of Vienna, Berlin, Italy, Ge. ; also an important work 
on the insects of the State of Missouri, with the title, ‘‘ Third Annual 
Report on the Noxious, Beneficial, and other Insects of the State of 
Missouri. By Charles V. Riley, State Entomologist ’—published at 
Jefferson City during the present year. Also the new and very com- 
plete Catalogue of the European Lepidoptera, just published by 
Messrs. Staudinger & Wocke, and the last volume ef Thomsen’s Cole- 
optera of Scandinavia, completing the work. 

Mr. Higgins exhibited a beautiful series of Butterflies and Moths 
from Natal, containing some fine species of Charaxes and Saturnia, 
together with a number of figures executed in photo-chromo-lithography, 
representing their larve, and the plants on which they feed, in their 
natural colours. This is the first instance of the application of this 
novel process to the delineation of living insects. Also a series of 
curious insects from the north of Borneo. Mr. Meek exhibited a 
specimen of Nyssia lapponaria, a Geometer new to these islands, 
€aken at Ranoo h, Perthshire; and Mr. Champion, Scydmeenus rufus, 
a small Beetle, also new to England, from Richmond Park. The Rev. 
Mr. Murray exhibited a variety of Polyommatus Eurydice, also a num- 
ber of drawings of Indian Moths, executed in India by his brother. 
Mr. Percy Bicknell exhibited a number of specimens of different 
English Moths and Butterflies, remarkable for their diminutive size ; 
also Odonestis potatorea, male, very pale-coloured, a very dark 
iemale of the same species, and a singular specimen of Gonepteryx 
Rhamni, male, with blotches of blood-red colour placed irregularly 
en the wings. He had taken it alive in this condition on the 17th of 
March. Mr. Jansen suggested that the change of colour might be 
‘due to some chemical action, instancing the case of some yellow 
Beetles from Nicaragua placed in sawdust moistened with cyanide of 
potassium, which had turned red. 

Mr. MacLachlan exhibited a small female elephant’s tusk from 
India, portions of which, near the base, were found, on the dead 
animal being examined, to have been eroded, end having a large 
number of the eggs of some insect (possibly those of a blow fly) de- 
@osited in regular rows in patches upon the diseased part. He con-, 
sidered the erosion to have been the result of some inflammatory 
action, and not the work of the insects in question. Some conversa- 
tion took place relative to a recent statement in the Times and other 
journals, in which two “storms” of insects were reported to have 
fallen at Bath, especially on the platform of the railway, in which 
some vaguely described insects were affirmed to have fallen in numbers. 
It was suggested that these might possibly have been the curious Crus- 
tacean, named Branchipus stagnalis, taken up from neighbouring 
standing pools of water by a whirlwind. 

Mr. Lewis exhibited a circular earthenware vessel, very porous, and 
having a very thick bottom, employed in Pekin for keeping ‘ fighting 
beetles” in a living state. Mr. Stainton exhibited a number of bean- 
diful drawings of leaves of different plants, with the burrows of different 
small moths, &c., executed at Santa Martha, in South America, by 
the Baron Von Nolken. 

Mr. MacLachlan stated that M. Candeze, of Liege, had undertaken 
che completion of Lacordaire’s work on the Longicorn Beetles, and 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


367 


that the Chrysomelidi, in the same series, were in the hands of 
M. Chapuis. 

Mr. Albert Miiller gave an account of a new kind of gall found 
upon common Fern (the first instance of that tribe of plants being 
thus affected), and which appeared to have been produced by Diastro- 
phus Rubi. 

The following memoirs were read:—1, Descriptions of some new 
exotic Longicorn Beetles, by Mr. Bates (amongst which was a species 
remarkable for its very short antenne, with the fourth joint singularly 
swollen). 2, Descriptions of some new exotic Lucanide (Stag Beetles), 
by Professor Westwood, 3, On the synonymes of the French Lepido- 
ptera described by Fourcroy and Geoffroy, by Mr. Kirby. Mr. Lewis 
called attention to the fact that the Moth produced from the very 
destructive ‘‘army worm” of the United States has occurred in this 
country, being the caterpillar of Noctua unipuncta of Haworth, Leu- 
canea extrema of recent authors. 


SOME PREDATORY INSECTS OF OUR 
GARDENS.—No. 8. 


Sarp a friend to me one day, while we were strolling in a 
garden, ‘‘ Here, look at these ants, the gardeners call them 
pests, and they do seem to run about a great deal over the 
plants, but there’s a lot of them eating up the green blight, so 
that’s doing some good, at any rate.” ‘My good friend,” I 
answered, ‘do not be too certain. Examine them again, and 
I will give you a sovereign for every aphis you find which has 
been killed byan ant. Busy enough are they about the ‘blight,’ 
certainly; yet their intentions are not hostile. The object of 
their pursuit is a peculiar fluid ejected by the aphides (some 
people call it honeydew), which is grateful to their palates ; and 
there is as great a difference between seeking aphis ‘ milk,’ 
and devouring the producers of it, as there is between eating a 
cook and feasting on a pudding which that cook has made.” 

No, on all grounds I maintain that horticulturists have a 
fall justification when they include the ant amongst their 
insect enemies. Why, the case is very black indeed. Ants 
not only do mischief themselves, but they bestow an apparently. 
needless amount of attention upon a species, or rather a num- 
ber of species, of smaller insects so prolific and so injurious as 
to have had the appellation ‘‘ blight” especially handed over 
to them; for it is a fact unquestionable, that ants have been 
observed carefully removing the eggs of aphides from one place 
to another, and watching over the progeny of these—not from 
pure benevolence, of course, but with an idea of ulterior advan- 
tages obtainable from what have been fancifully called their 
milch cows A recent instance of this is given in one of our 
natural history journals. Around some plants which had 
recently been potted a colony of ants assembled, and raised a 
structure of earth around them, bringing down to the lower 
part of the stems which were thus concealed the aphides which 
had been before dispersed on the leaves and twigs. Moreover, 
ants are actual transgressors themselves. They haunt our gaz- 
den fruit in troops during autumn, making havoc amongst 
Peaches, Pears, and Plums; also, they do not hesitate to nibble 
away the petals of various flowers, and thereby disfigure them, 
or attacking the buds ere they have expanded, prevent their 
development. In fact, on plants, shrubs, and trees they wander 
at will, using their jaws on whatever may happen to attract 
them. Just at this season I see them sometimes swarming in 
parties upon Vines trained on or near houses, being, doubtless, 
congregated for an unlawful purpose. 

On the other hand, I must grant that ants do destroy certain 
insects which are also injurious in gardens. They seize and 
carry off caterpillars; in their researches under ground they 
come across occasionally the pupz of Lepidopterous insects, 
and these they will eat, especially if soft. Moths, too, do not 
always escape, when they are settled down in a half-torpid 
state during the day, or in cold weather; the fat-bodied species 
being preferred. I noticed once a score or so surrounding an 
Ermine moth (A. lubricipeda), which seemed in a comatose 
condition. Had they been left unmolested the ants would 
have removed it to their hill; as it was, the moth was removed, 
but died shortly, having been fatally wounded by them. Flies, 
too, which have been partly disabled by some accident, are 
carried off by ants, and occasionally such hard-cased insects 
as beetles. Possibly, also, juvenile centipedes are seized by 
them, though I saw a party worsted in an assault upon an adult 
individual of that sort. Had our British ants the same habits 
as are recorded of a certuin Brazilian species, they might put 
in a claim to the gardener’s consideration, on the plea that 
they work at the same pursuit—viz., cultivating the ground. 
This species Dr. Lincecun watched for twelve years ere he 


3868 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ Moy 25, 1871. 


reported its proceedings to the world. Selecting a suitable 
plot near the nest, the ant clears it of all obstructions, levels 
it, and sows it with the seed of a grain-bearing grass. This 
produces a crop, which is kept weeded, and when ripe reaped 
by the ant, carried off, chaff and all, finally threshed, and 
packed away in granaries. Let it be added, however, that this 
narrative has not received credit with all entomologists. 

Our own ants, we might say, do so far resemble the gardener 
that they dig up the earth and turn it over. Their object in 
so doing is of course the formation of the nest or hill, which 
may be either temporary or permanent. In this retreat ants 
usually remain during the winter, solacing themselves, perhaps, 
with the milk of some aphides they may have in hiding. Harly 
in the spring, however, they come forth and begin to air their 
pupe, commonly called ants’ eggs. By this time ants have 
come into full activity, and have three principal objects before 
them—namely, the obtaining of food for themselves and the 
young brood, a matter of primary importance; secondly, they 
are largely occupied in tending this same brood, bringing it 
through the larval and pupal stages to anthood; and lastly, a 
certain part are told off to act as masons, and these, working 
mostly at night or when the weather is damp, are busy in 
carrying about pellets of earth, altering old chambers and 
making new ones. The yellow ant, it is said, employs, in ad- 
dition to earth, sawdust and spider’s web. En passant let us 
note it is often a matter of some difficulty to discover where 
the nest or nests are situated in a garden, for the ants make 
many cross tracks and byepaths, nor do they drag off to the 
nest all the objects which they lay hold of. 

The two species most common in gardens are the black ant 
(Formica nigra), and the yellow ant (F. flava); the presence 
of other species is rather unusual. Incultivated ground which 
touches upon woods the large ant, known as the horse or wood 
ant, is to be seen now and then. About London our usual 
garden species is the black ant, and some interesting facts in 
its economy have been recently pointed out by Mr. Elwin. 
Kept in a formicary the black ants are remarkably scrupulous 
as to cleanliness, removing all useless débris and the remains 
of dead insects, fragments of meat, &c., very thoroughly. Their 
strength and dexterity, as already described by authors, were 
proved to be remarkable. Mr. Elwin sawa single ant carry 
the entire abdomen of a wasp soaked with water; and yet, he 
adds, ‘‘In spite of their strength their tread must be wonder- 
fully light, since they will walk heavily burdened up a crumbly 
and perpendicular shaft without displacing a grain, whereas, if 
I touched it ever so lightly myself it would crumble in.” Ants 
are very careful to keep quite clear the various entrances which 
lead to their tunnels, and Mr. Elwin noticed that they would 
even remove from these small lumps of earth, which, though 
not in actual proximity to the openings, were near enough to 
be in danger of being pushed overthem. Also when they carry 
off earth which they do not need from their tunnels they take 
it to some distance, and usually pat it down with their antenne. 
It seems, with regard to food, that ants will take at one time 
what they reject at another, nor will they live long on either 
animal or vegetable food alone. Though Mr. Elwin found that 
ants never meet without crossing antenne, he thinks that 
Huber was mistaken in supposing that they thus caressed the 
bodies of their dead companions. Not only, says he, do they 
act the cannibal upon dead ants, but they will even sometimes 
drag living ants which are sickly down the provision-hole. 

Amongst the winged creatures which appear in the Septem- 
ber sunshine are male and female ants, scarcely identified ag 
such by many entomologists. Of these the females have the 
stronger and larger wings, and survive their male companions, 
scattering abroad in different directions to found new colonies, 
or returning to the same nest to deposit eggs. Their wings, 
for which they have no further occasion, they strip off them- 
selves, or are deprived of them by the workers. 

But ere we take leave of the garden ant it is necessary to 
consider how its attacks upon the produce of our gardens can 
be warded off, and also how the insect can be destroyed, either 
during its excursions, or, more effectually still, by eradicating 
it from its haunts. A variety of methods have been tried, 
some very complicated, and, as is often the case, the simplest 
plans prove the best. To keep ants off trees it has been 
recommended to have the earth constantly dug up, and saw- 
dust, coal ashes, and other matters of a nature repulsive to 
ants applied to the roots. There is a practical difficulty in 
carrying this out in many gardens which is against it, even 
were it more efficacious than it really is. So also the practice 
of drawing a line of tar round the trunks, though an effective 


check to the upward march of ants, is occasionally injurious to 
the trees. A more successful compound which has been tried 
in the midland counties is formed of one ounce of flowers of 
sulphur mixed into two pints of trainoil. This was used freely 
upon walls, and also applied in the autumn to the trees most 
attacked by ants. To snare or poison ants such things have 
been used as bread crumbs mixed with sugar and white pre- 
cipitate of mercury; also solutions of lime, salt, and aloes 
have been poured in along their tracks. The bait which Mr. 
Newman recommends for entrapping the house ant would no 
doubt secure quantities of garden ants also. It is thus made = 
Pieces of string are boiled in a mixture of moist sugar and beer, 
and then laid in positions where the ants will discover them. 
Sweet compounds are so pleasing to them, that the intelligence 
communicated from one to another ere long brings a host to 
the spot, and the strings when thick with them are taken up 
and plunged into boiling water. During the colder months, 
with few exceptions, the ants lie quietly in their nests or hills, 
and should be dug up when discovered, but not on a warm day, 
otherwise a good portion will escape unharmed. It has been 
recommended to dig up the nest entire, and turn it over, with 
as little disturbance as possible, then the ants remaining in it 
are destroyed by the cold or wet weather. Soot is also some- 
times sprinkled freely about the hills, or the ground near them 
soaked well with a wash made by boiling rain water with black 
soap and sulphur. Much has been said of late about the natu- 
ralisation in these islands of exotic animals; would it be worth 
while to introduce a number of ant-eaters and give them the 
run of our gardens? Ant ingenuity, however, would probably 
contrive to evade in a great measure the attacks of this quad- 
ruped, even if it would make itself at home in Britain. 

Hardly have the Gooseberry bushes been relieved of the 
presence of the chequered larve of the Gooseberry Moth, ere 
they will be observed in many places to be adorned with the 
unpleasant-looking larye of Nematus Ribesii. Their groups, 


Nematus Ribesii. 


rendered conspicuous by the habit they have of raising the 
hinder extremities of their bodies in the air, frequently do not 
fall within the gardener’s cognisance until May; but, though 
by hand-picking quantities of them may be then destroyed, it 
is better to seek out the eggs. These objects, which look like 
tiny beads, are laid very evenly along the ribs of the leaves, 
and they may be detected without much trouble about the 
middle of April. A judicious turning-over of the earth early in 
the year will expose the chrysalis, which is buried a few inches 
beneath the soil, and the appearance of part of the first brood 
of flies thus prevented. When the weather is favourable these 
larve grow with great rapidity, though I believe the statement 
is incorrect that they will feed up sometimes in ten or twelve 
days. Two broods at least occur each year, some say more > 
and though most partial to the Gooseberry, they have no ob- 
jection at all to the flavour of Currant leaves. By juvenile 
collectors of insects not as yet ‘‘up to snuff” these and other 
Saw-fly larve are carried off under the supposition that they 
will turn out to be the caterpillars of butterflies or moths. 
They may be at once distinguished by counting the feet, which 
never exceed sixteen in the Lepidopterous order—i.e., six legs 
and ten ‘elaspers’’? in modern phrase.—J. R. 8. C. 


Viorrts.—I supplement my series of Violets sent a fow weeks 
back with blooms of V. californica. Itisa handsome sort with 
no scent, deciduous, and quite hardy. As to the complaint of 
shortness of stalk, you will see by the specimens sent that no 
complaint can be made of this variety. [The length of the 
stalk of the leaf was 11 inches, and of the flower 10 inches. } 


~~. ee 


May 25, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


562 


I placed the V. odorata pendula, of New York, among the 
singles ; it was an error, the variety is a double one,—A. R. 


ROMAN AND DOUBLE PINK VIOLETS. 


A crear deal of useful information has been given lately 
about Violets, but no one hag spokon of Roman Violets or of 
the Double Pink. I brought some of the former from the ruins 
of Caracalla’s Baths in Rome about twenty years ago, and have 
found them answer perfectly, producing masses of flowers in 
March and April. They are excessively sweet, of a much 
darker blue than the Russian ; the flowers grow on slight round 
stalks well above the leaves. They only require to be planted 
in a border where they may be allowed to run and take care of 
themselves, ag they do not like being moved or divided. The 
Double Pink Violets I think lovely, and they quite repay the 
trouble of moving occasionally to fresh heds and dividing, 
which like many others they require. Their leaves are very 
apt to be variegated with white veins when not attended to, or 
in very dry weather.—E. Sx. J. 


EDWARDSIA MICROPHYLLA. 


Norwitustanpine the severe winter we have passed through, 
a plant of this shrub growing against a south-west wall has more 
flowers upon it than I have known before, although it did not 
receive the least protection and is fully exposed to the weather 
—growing, in fact, against the rounded corner of a building. 
I attribute its flowering well this season to the dry situation it 
occupies and its wood being well ripened last summer, for it 
seems to have suffered much less than Ceanothus papillosus on 
one side of it and a Myrtle on the other, both of which are very 
much injured, especially the latter. 

The singular beauty of the flowers of this Hdwardsia entitles 
it to mote attention, for individually they are much larger than 
those of most of the Leguminous order, to whichit belongs, while 
the neatness of its foliage is also in its favour. As a flowering 
plant I hardly suppose that it will ever be made to present a 
sufficient quantity of bloom to render it a favourite with the 
plant-exhibitor, but in a favoured place against a south wall it 
deserves a site. It certainly never has so gorgeous an appear- 
ance as Clianthus puniceus, but is assuredly hardier than that 
plant, and its bright yellow bloom contrasts strongly with the 
elusters of crimson on the Clianthus. Both plants do better 
out of doors than in-doors when a favourable position can be 
found for them; and ag the Hdwardsia hag passed through 
the past winter scathless, I would advise its being tried in 
other places.—J. Ronson. 


VEGETABLE PROTECTIVE RESEMBLANCES. 


I must own that I prefer the use of the general term ‘‘ pro- 
tective resemblance”’ to the special term ‘‘ mimicry,” as the 
latter seems to imply a certain amount of intelligent volition, 
which in the instances cited by Messrs. Wallace, Bates, and 
Trimen, I believe does not apply, whereas there are, I believe, 
cases where instinct does come into play, not acting physiologi- 
eally as Mr. Bennett would seem to assert, but in the construc- 
tion of disguises. 

Protective resemblances appear to me to be capable of being 
roughly classed as general and special, though both run into 
each other. Of general resemblances there are so many that I 
hardly think it worth while to enumerate instances, I shall 
therefore confine myself to some examples of special protective 
resemblances which I have noted. 

As to plants I believe protective or usefal resemblances are 
far commoner than some writers seem to think. 

That excellent observer Dr. Burchell, in his ‘‘ Travels,” vol.i., 
p. 10, remarks :—‘‘ On picking up from the stony ground what 
was supposed a curiously shaped pebble, it proved to bea plant. 
and an additional new species to the tribe of Mesembryanthe- 
mum, but in colour and appearance bore the closest resem- 
blanee to the stones between which it was growing. On the 
same ground was found a species of the Gryllus tribe amongst 
the stones, and go exactly like them in colour and even in shape 
that it could never have been discovered had it not been ob- 
served just at a moment when in motion, and as if more com- 
pletely to elude notice it seldom stirred, and even then but 
glowly. 

“The intention of Nature in these instances seems to have 
been the same as when she gave to the chameleon the power of 
accommodating its colour in a certain degree to that of the 


‘object nearest it, in order to compensate for the deficiency of its 


locomotive powers. By their form and colour, this insect may 
pass unobserved by those birds, which otherwise would soon 
extirpate a species so little able to elude its pursuers, and this 
juicy little Mesembryanthemum may generally escape the notice 
of cattle and wild animals.” 

I may here remark that a great number of Karoo plants have 
tuberous roots of similar form and colour, and it is especially 
curious to notice that, amongst the Asclepiadex, many species, 
such as Raphionueme, which are found in the grassy country, 
have their tubers hidden beneath the soil, whilst others, which 
occur in the stony Karoo, such as Brachystelma filiforme, have 
them above the soil, and so perfectly do they resemble the 
stones amongst which they are found, that, when not in leaf, it 
is almost impossible to distinguish them. 

Of imitating plants I may mention Ajuga ophrydis, the only 
species of the genus in South Africa, which bears a striking 
resemblance. to an Orchid, as also does Impatiens capensis, 
another solitary species. I mention these especially because 
they are very striking, although I am not aware that they are 
in any way specially useful, noting, however, that the latter 
plant is much frequented by insects, often by similar species to 
those which frequent Angraecum and Mystacidium, plants affect- 
ing similar localities. 

I would remark how long it often is before frugivorous birds 
discover fruit not indigenous to the country. 

In the drought of 1865 I was much struck by this. We had 
a solitary Damson tree, which had not previously borne much 
fruit, but which that year had abundance. The mousebirds 
(Coleus) and the Red-wing (Inida moria) had devoured the 
Almond and Peach blossoms and. the Figs. With two double- 
barrelled guns we could not keep them from the latter. Mean- 
while the Damson tree was never touched, but ripened its fruit 
beautifully. On the morning of Christmas Day my friend in- 
tended taking them to his sister-in-law. Two hours later there 
was not a Damson on the tree; the birds had just found them 
out, and had strewn the ground with their stones.—J. P. 
MANSEL WzALE, Brooklyn, near King William's Town, Kaffraria.. 
—(Nature.) 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


We have received from Messrs. Rivers, of Sawbridgeworth, 
flowers of Pmonr4 WITTMANNIANA, a Species of this highly. 
ornamental genus, which we believe to be littl known and 
not much in cultivation. It is remarkable as being a yellow 
Peony, and although smaller in the flower than the other 
species usually found in gardens, and single, it is nevertheless 
a pretty and interesting plant. This is one of the very nume- 
rous plants first received in the country by the Horticultural 
Society, of which now there is no trace in the garden. It 
came from Mr. Hartwiss, Director of the Nitika Garden in the 
Crimea, and was discovered by Mr. Wittmann in the Taurian 
Caucasus. 


—— Mussrs. Sutron & Sons, Seedsmen to the Queen, 
Reading, will have their Annual Roor Suow, at Reading, on 
Saturday, November 18th. This show, which is open to the 
United Kingdom, was established by, and has been conducted 
solely at the expense of Messrs. Sutton, and is one of the largest 
in the kingdom. Upwards of £70 are offered this year for the 
best specimens of Swedes, Turnips, Kohl Rabi, Mangel, Pota- 
toes, &c., including no less than 20 guineas in plate and money 
for twenty-four specimens of Sattons’ Improved Champion 
Swede; anda £5 5s. cupis given by Messrs. Griffin, of Wolver- 
hampton, for the best collection of roots. Full particulars may 
be had on application to Messrs. Sutton & Sons. 


Crysran Pausce.—The additions to the permanent depart- 
ments have been during the past year principally in regard to 
natural history. The science of marine zoology is to be ex- 
emplified, and means for the proper exhibition of living 
animals in their natural condition have been provided. The 
most complete aquarium that has ever been constructed on 
scientific principles is prepared, and will shortly be opened. 
It is in a special building 300 feet long and 50 feet wide. There 
are sixty tanks in all, supplied constantly with fresh sea water, 
of which 700 tons (150,000 gallons) are used for the purpose. 
The largest tank has a capacity of 4000 gallons. In these re- 
ceptacles the natural conditions of the bottom of the sea are 
to be reproduced, and a practically unknown wondrous world of 
life will be open to our inspection, as it hag never been before. 

A Rose show will be held on June 24th. A show of dogs is 


370 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURKH AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 25, 1871. 


to open on the 2nd of June, and will last four days; while the , 
13th of July has been appointed for a cat show, and it will be | 


the first that has ever been held. We are so apt to joke about 
cats, that most of us forget, or are ignorant of, what interest- 
ing and beautiful varieties of the animal are known and domi- 
ciled in this country. These, although of high value, have 
never been brought together for exhibition, as the dogs have. 
There are, besides, to be shows of poultry, singing and cage 
birds, and Pigeons. Of these last-named there is to be an 


especially interesting exhibition. On the 26ih of June there 
| will be a great Pigeon Concours, after the continental fashion, 

when one thousand Pigeons, of the true homing varieties, will 
be liberated to race for prizes to various stations in Belgium. 
These will be of the same breed as the messengers employed 
during the Franco-German war—many will be the identical 
birds. They are not what we call Carriers; the English Carrier: 
is a fancy breed, and is, indeed, misnamed, for he can seldom 
or never be used properly for the service of conveying messages. 


SOBRALIA MACRANTHA, var. ALBIDA. 


Tur plant we have the pleasure to figure for the first time 
was exhibited a few weeks ago at the Royal Horticultural 
Society’s _ gar- 
den, South Ken- 
sington, by Mr. 
B. 8. Williams, 
of the Victoria 
Nursery, Upper 
Holloway. It is 
at once a very 
rare and beau- 
tiful variety of 
the well-known 
Sobralia ma- 
crantha. The 
reed-like stems 
and leaves very 
much resemble 
those of some 
species of Pani- 
cum—more so 
than the growth 
of an Orchidace- 
ous plant. The 
stems are some 
3 or 4 feet in 
height, and very 
slender, produc- 
ing upon the 
ends of the 
shoots, when 
they are mature, 
numerous large 
flowers, which 
measure up- 
wards of 6 inch- 
es in diameter. 
The sepals and 
petals are of a 
soft creamy or 
French white; 
the lip is very 
large and spread- 
ing, of a uni- 
form, soft, rich 
purple, which 
contrasts beau- 
tifully with the 
pale-coloured sepals and petals. 


From its distinctness and deli- 
cate beauty this plant is worthy of a place in every collection 
of Orchidaceous plants. 

The genus Sobralia, unfortunately, is to a great extent neg- 


lected by the majority of amateur growers of Orchids—a fact 
which is much to be regretted, for although it cannot be denied 
that the indivi- 
dual flowers are 
very fugacious, 
yet the quantity 
produced, and 
the soft and 
beautiful colours 
of the blooms, 
make ample com- 
pensation for its 
short-lived pro- 
perties. 
Sobralias are 
all terrestrial 
plants, destitute 
of pseudo-bulbs, 


and are cha- 
racterised by 
slender reed- 


like stems, bear- 
ing dark green, 
plaited, acu— 
minate leaves. 
They should be 
potted in rough 
peat, sphagnum 
moss, and good 
leaf mould and 
sand, to which 
may be added a 
little sound turfy- 
loam. In pot- 
ting let the drain-- 
age be good, but 
the plants should 
not be elevated 
above the rim 
of the pot, as 
is practised for 
epiphytal  spe- 
cies of this order. 
The best place 
to grow them 
is the cool end 
of the Cattleya 
» house. At all 

seasons a liberal supply of water is essential to their well-being, 

but in winter much less will suffice than is necessary during the 

period of growth and flower. As far as Tam awareall are natives 
| of South America and the West Indian Islands,—ExPERTO CREDE- 


(uy) 
7 
ae i dt || 
Lidia i\ 
TENN 


WORK FOR 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Every spare piece of ground must now be trenched-up in 
readiness for planting Brussels Sprouts and early Savoys. The 
detached leaves from Cabbage beds in bearing should be re- 
moyed and trenched-in, not left to wither and rot amongst 
growing crops, forming a harbour for slugs and other vermin. 
Asparagus beds are likely to meet with a severe cutting this 
year on account of the lateness of other vegetables, and should, 
therefore, be liberally supplied with stimulants in the shape 
of liquid mauure and salt. The cutting, however, must be 
gradually lessened. Keep the beds free from weeds, and discon- 
tinue entirely the cutting of young beds. A few drills of Cape 
Broccoli may be sown in light rich soil, to be thinned out and 
kept standing. The trenches which haye been prepared for 


THE WEEK. 

early Celery should now be planted without delay; lift the 
plants from the nursery bed with a good ball of earth, plant 
them at a foot apart, using a trowel or small fork in preference 
to a dibble, and give them a liberal supply of water, and after 
they have started into growth plenty of liquid manure poured 
upon the soil from the spout of a watering-pot without the 
rose. If from drought the tops require freshening, a sprinkling 
of pure water is best. Prick-out late-sown Celery, and keep all 
young advancing crops well supplied with water. Thin-out 
young seedling Cucumbers and Vegetable Marroms on ridges, 
and see that transplanted ones do not want for water; tilt the 
ylasses for the admission of air, and shut down close in the 
evening. Liberal applications of liquid manure must be kept 
up to Cauliflowers in order to have them fine. Continue at. 


May 25, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 371 


regular and short intervals to tie-up Lettuces for blanching, 
and thin-out all advancing crops of the varieties of Cabbage 
Lettuce, which are always best left to perfect themselves where 
sown; and if small sowings are kept up at short intervals 
transplanting will be superfiuous. Continue to keep the sur- 
face well forked-up amongst the growing crops of Peas and 
Beans. This is at all times attended with the most beneficial 
results, as it increases their productiveness, and by keeping 
them in a vigorous-growing state assists greatly to ward off the 
injurious effects of mildew, which too often attacks the late- 
Sown ones. This may be accounted for on the supposition that 
pulverising the soil, besides exposing it more to atmospheric 
influence, has a great effect in retaining moisture about the 
roots during the dry weather, which, together with harduess of 
surface, is generally supposed to be favourable to the production 
of mildew. if this begins to show itself a very weak solution 
of salt and water sprinkled over the tops will check its progress. 
Keep up successional sowings of Radishes, Lettuccs, and Salads, 
which require to be sown often now in quantities proportioned 
to the demand; the north side of a sloping bank is the best 
situation for these sowings; let those who doubt it try, and 
they will soon be convinced. Continue to make successional 
sowing of Turnips, and dress both these and other crops likely 
to be infested with the fly with charcoal dust when they are in 
a wet state. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

Great activity must now be exercised in this department, as 
the rapid growth of the trees will require constant attention in 
Stopping superfluous shoots and nailing-in. Peaches may now 
have their final disbudding. Let every shoot not required be 
removed with a sharp knife and the remainder be carefully 
nailed-in ; if any of the extreme shoots are getting out of bounds 
they may be stopped within a few joints of the base in order to 
preserve the fruit, but take care to train-up another shoot to 
succeed. Give the fruit another moderate thinning, but leave 
more than will eventually be required, as a portion wil!l certainly 
fall off in stoning. Apricots must be thinned with the same 
discretion. Keep the lateral shoots of Vines closely stopped 
at the first joint. 
objectionable, as nature does nothing in vain, and, doubtless, 
they were placed there for some good purpose; by retaining a 
joint we preserve them for whatever purpose they may serve in 
the economy of the Vine. We should always endeavour to 
assist the operations of nature as well as judiciously check over- 
luxuriance, and in this respect there is no tree more tractable 
than the Vine. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

Recently transplanted shrubs and trees must be carefully 
attended to with water until they become fairly established. It 
is frequently the case, however, that too much water is given 
at the roots, thereby souring the soil and rendering it uncon- 
genial to the young rootlets and the aftergrowth of the plants. 
The soil should be kept moist, but not to saturation, and the 
plants should be watered overhead with the engine on the 
evenings of bright days; water thus given will be of more 
Service in repairing the loss sustained by evaporation than if 
given in excess while there is a deficiency of active rootlets 
to absorb it. Where Roses are infested with the grub, it will 
be necessary to go over the plants frequently to destroy this 
pest. Green fly is also sometimes very troublesome at this 
season; a good washing with the garden engine on two or 
three successive evenings will greatly assist in clearing the 
trees of these destructive vermin. With wind north and north- 
east and a fair prospect of a sharp frost any night, there is no 
temptation to commence bedding-out in earnest. It is to be 
hoped, however, that we shall have experienced a favourable 
change before the appearance of this notice, and that the plant- 
ing of all properly-prepared stock may be proceeding under 
favourable conditions. Branches of evergreens are easily enough 
obtained about most places, and a sprinkling of these stuck 
into the beds after planting will be of great service in protect- 
ing the plants from the drying effects of bright sun, &c., and 
will also ward-off a degree of frost which to unprotected plants 
would be destructive. All shoots which are long enough to be 
injured by being blown about by the wind should be pegged- 
down immediately on planting out. A good watering should 
be given to the beds to settle the soil about the roots; this, 
however, will be better done in the morning, if there be any 
reason to fear frost. 

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

As the New Holland plants go out of bloom the seed-pods 

should be picked off, the shoots cut back and arranged in the 


The practice of removing them entirely is | 
p Y, 


form most favourable to secure a compact growth, placing 
them in any airy part of the greenhouse until they fairly start 
into growth. When the buds have fairly started will be the 
time for shifting such as require more pot room, as they can 
then be kept somewhat close for a fortnight to encourage a 
free root-action, without incurring the risk of the buds breaking 
scantily. Some plants, as Boronias, Leschenaultias, Erios- 
temons, &¢., would now be best in a frame or pit, where, while 
they have free ventilation, they could be protected from chill- 
ing draughts. Syringe the young plants occasionally, and 
sprinkle the vacant parts so as to preserve a moist growing. 
atmosphere. 
STOVE. : 

Many of the climbers in this house will now be growing 
rapidly, and some of them will be showing bloom, especially 
the Stephanotis and Allamandas; if room can be spared to 
prevent the plants becoming entangled, it is not advisable 
to train them too soon, or possibly some of the flowers may 
prove blind. The most forward of the Clerodendrons will now 
be showing their bloom panicles; encourage them as much 
as possible by a brisk bottom heat and plenty of manure 
water, and guard against red spider and insects of all kinds. 
Rondeletias, Ixoras, Gloriosas, and the like must also _be 
encouraged in a similar manner, as must all young growing 
specimens. Ventilate freely both by night and day, and keep 
&@ moist growing atmosphere. Plants for winter-blooming 
must be attended to, aud Gloxinias, Achimenes, &c., may, a& 
they come into bloom, be removed to a cooler house. Look 
to successional crops of these, especially of the old Achimenes 
coccinea.—W. Kane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


A creat week of work, and yet not much to write about. 
After the frost and snow of the morning of the 17th the weather 
on the whole has been milder, and we exposed all our bedding 
plants to the rain of the following days. Potatoes, Beans, 
Peas, &c., have suffered considerably in some places in the © 
neighbourhood, and still more farther north. A visitor told us 
that in Yorkshire even the Cabbages held down their heads, 
and the Potatoes in his little garden, which were very forward, 
were much blackened. In our rather elevated position we have 
suffered but little, but, rather singularly, in a good many spots 
the hardy male Fern has been touched at the points before the 
expansion of the fronds. 

KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Potatoes, so far as we have noticed, have been unusually 
good this season, and we have seen no signs of the disease. 
The earliest outside are strong and healthy, and if we have no 
severe May frosts, there will be an early return of tubers on 
sloping banks, and even on flat borders. Our ground being 
very limited, we plant now only for early supply. We have 
got through a good part of our early Potatoes, have a portion 
still left, fully ripened and nice tubers, and a fair piece in 
an earth pit covered with old sashes at night, and exposed in 
favourable days, with the tubers about half-grown, and we 
thought we were doing pretty well. As the single feather in 
the air tells the direction of the wind, so the healthiness, 
ripeness, and freedom from spots of our Potatoes under glass 
gave us grateful anticipations of what we might expect the 
great open-air crops to be in these islands. A month ago 
we saw in Luton fine-looking Potatoes, round in shape, selling 
at 9d. a punnetful, quite enough for a treat for a small family. 
These we found came from the Channel Islands. We have 
known them come even considerably earlier to our country 
towns from the South of France and the northern coast of 
Africa. Thanks, therefore, to quick transit, the artisan in our 
towns can, as respects many early vegetables, follow very quickly 
in the footsteps of our landed gentry. Asa mere matter of 
commerce it would be useless to force Rhubarb, except in the 
earliest part of the winter. In the midland and even the 
northern counties we have seen on the stalls nice, though short, 
bunches of Rhubarb from Cornwall and Devonshire, when ours 
was Just beginning to show above ground; we could not have 
sent to market such Potatoes as those referred to at sucha 
time and at such a price. The climate of the Channel Islands 
and the quick transit would beat us. 

We make a passing allusion to this subject, because when 
recently advocating larger kitchen gardeng, or at least vegetable 
grounds, and less of lawns, some gentlemen have said, ‘‘ Why, 
in many cases we could buy vegetables cheaper than we can. 
grow them.”’ As to such early vegetables, we concede the fact 


372 ; JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ May 25, 1871. 


where markets are close at hand and there is steam or rail- 
way transit. Wecan produce the results of any climate; but 
we cannot in point of economy and earliness compete with 
more sunny and sovthern latitudes. The conclusion of the 
matter in our opinion is just this, that the possessors of gardens 
close to market towns north of London may often find it more 
economical to purchase early productions than to grow them. 
If they are several miles from such marts the expense of going 
and coming must be taken into account. Then to this must 
be added the great value of freshness and perfection. Those 
Potatoes on the stall looked very well. Our practised eye could 
see at once that when cooked they would be waxy and sticky, 
destitute of the rich flavour of a fally ripened floury tuber just 
taken out of the soil, and which, instead of sticking, would be 
almost melting in the mouth. Still, the Potatoes referred to 
wwould be new, even if in quality they were inferior to good old 
Potatoes. Change in such matters is ever desirable, and the 
hardworking man appreciates such a change even more than 
those who are ever seeking after some new enjoyment. We 
should be sorry if rapidity of transit should in the case of the 
possessors of gardens lead them partially to lose the sense and 
relizh of what is really the best. Last year a gentleman told 
us that his Peas were all eaten by vermin, and he had resolved 
to grow no more, lay part of his garden in fallow, and send to 
only five miles off, and get a few pecks or bushels as 
wanted. He did so last year, and heard no complaints as to 
quality; he was not much of a judge, and cared nothing or 
little about Peas. This again is just a case in point. There 
must be a perfect want of the sense of taste if a mam can par- 
take with equal relish of Peas that have been bagged and sent 
to market, exposed on a stall, and bagged or basketed again 
before being shelled, and those which have been carefully picked 
a short time before they are boiled. 

Kidney. Beans.—Our first sowings out of doors area failure. 
The seed, though treated with every care, has rotted as it 
swelled, entirely owing, we believe, to the want of sufficient 
heat. As soon as we found this to be ihe case we sowed in 
6-inch pots, five or six beans in each, and planged them ina 
mild hotbed. When duly hardened off we shall plant them out, 
balls and ail, disturbing them but little. It was no fault of the 
seed, as that came up without a miss in a little heat. Several 
similar cases have occurred from sowing ra‘her early, and the 
seed has heen blamed when cold and wet were the causes of 
failure. Had the first two weeks of May been warmer and drier, 
the seedlings would have been right enough. Scarlet Runners 
have stood the early sowing better, and are peeping through, 
and those not doing so are safe. The weather, however, has 
been cold enough for them; in fact, as yet we have had the 
mouths of April and May reversed, and we shall not be in too 
great haste to turn tender plants out of doors. Bedded plants 
and Dahlias early planted have been injured in come places as 
much as the Potatoes, and though they may recover, it is as 
well that such checks should not be experienced. 

Watering and Mulching.—We found that our earliest Peas 
out of doors were rather at a standstill, but we disliked the 
idea of watering them, Roses, &c., until the ground should be 
warmer. The weather being milder, we soaked the rows with 
louse sewage, as from suds and dish-washings, which in the 
spring and autumn months are always warmer than the open 
air water. Gave also’ a watering to the earliest Cabbages, for 
we want them in, as they are later than usual, even the earliest 
-of them, having lost the most of those planted in the autumn. 
These, as well as the Peas, had the surface soil forked over 
previously, as the rains had rather baked the surface, and 
where free growth is concerned an open surface is all-import- 
ant. The Potatoes at the foot of walls, and which had become 
dry from the rains not touching them, have done wonders 
since they were watered with sewage slightly warmed. When 
fully exposed we should never think of watering Potatoes. In 
dry seasons, however, they are the better of earthing-up; it 
helps to keep more moisture about the roots. We never had 
finer Potatoes than last season, and yet the fibres must have 
searched far for moisture, as the tubevs seemed es if they 
had been gathered from mounds of dry ashes. The earliest 
spring Cauliflowers were also well watered, and to keep the 
moisture in, earth was drawn with a hoe to the stems, so as 
to leave a hollow all the way for fature wat: ring if necessary. 
if the weather should continue dry we shall mulch all such 
¢erops with half-decayed dung, or anything we can find, to save 
watering, and when plants are well established this often 
answers better than frequent watering. 

Bat for appearance surface manuring has advantages of its 


own. The manure will not yield the luxuriance of growth that 
it would do when mingled with the soil, but it will give greater 
sweetness and richness even to the best vegetables; and as for 
fruit and flowers, there can be no doubt of the value of manure 
on the surface, instead of incorporating the manure with the 
soil. A farmer, with whom we had an argument once about 
leaving his rather strawy manure to be dried on the field like 
so many haycocks before ploughing it down for Turnips, thought 
he had us at an advantage when he saw rather rotten manure 
exposed on ihe surface of a flower bed to become thoroughly 
sweetened before it was pricked in shallow. Bat the objects 
aimed at were quite different—rapid and luxuriant growth in 
the case of the Turnip, moderate growth and free-blooming in 
the case of the flower bed. Without noting chemical principles, 
there can be little doubt as to the fact that all manures of vege- 
table or animal origin tell most on free-blooming when pre- 
sented in a sweet state, and within free reach of atmospheric 
influences. 

With all our progress we have yét much to learn as to water- 
ing, manuring, and surface-mulching. Many a plant out of 
doors and in-doors is watered out of existence. Mulching 
with litter or dung will help to keep roots warm in winter, but 
if left on in the warm days of spring and early summer it will 
jast have the opposite effect of keeping the soilcool: hence for 
even vegetables, and especially for flower beds, it is important 
that the soil be warmed before mulching is freely resorted to, 
as when applied it not only helps to keep moisture in, but also 
to keep heat out. 

Then as to the effects of manure in a rather fresh rank state, 
and similar manure more wasted and decayed, bat nicely 
sweetened, anyone may convince himself by just trying two 
rows of Celery differently treated. If we desired huge plants 
yather than sweetness and crispness, we would give a good 
depth of strong rather fresh manure, with 8 inches of more 
rotten manure and soil on the top. Were less free growth and 
sweetness of flavour the object, we woule <_ from 6 to 9 inches 
of well-sweetened decayed hotbed dung, with about an equal 
amount of soil. 

As we have nothing but tanks now to depend upon, our 
main pond being dry, we shall not be in a hurry in finally 
transplanting much Celery, as but little water will serve it 
whilst in the beds in which it was pricked out. 

FRUIT DEPARTMENT. 

Took the opportunity of a warm morning to give a good 
engining with water to Apricots and Peaches. The wind shifts 
so much to north and east, that it would not be prudent to 
lash the trees late in the afternoon. We used chiefly clear 
soot water, as it rather nourishes the foliage, and no insects 
seem much to like it—it is always better to keep them away 
than to destroy them when they come. Some of the trees have 
suffered considerably from the frost, but the crop will be very 
fair. Plums we fear will not come up to our expectation, and 
the rich profusion of bloom. For days when in bloom the 
trees were constantly wet, and then frosty nights and cold 
easterly winds seemed to wrap the petals round the incipient 
fruit like so many tight indiarubber bands, and instead of 
swelling, great numbers dropped off. There will on most kinds 
be a fair crop, but we do not think we shall need much thin- 
ning. Apricots, too, are very impatient of constant damp 
whi st they are in full bloom. With drainage secured it is not 
easy to hurt them with moisture at the roots. Many trees be- 
become unhealthy and ultimately die from dryness at the roots 
alone. In many places, if fine weather continue, they will 
rejoice in a good watering. 

We watered all the most forward Strawberries out of doors, 
missing this season the plants which did not show bloom, as 
they are growing quite strongly enough. In some cases it is 
easy to detect a fruitful and an unfruitful plant at a distance, 
the latter is so much more luxuriant. This holds gond as re- 
spects the plants turned out of pots last season after they had 
fruited. As already stated, we came to the conclusion that the 
frost killed the fruit buds. Some pieces are pretty well up to 
the mark, but as a rule, our crop will not be equal to that of 
former years. 

Peach and Nectarine trees in the orchard house haye been 
watered, and we must begin to thin freely. The trees are 
loaded with fruit, but they had glorious sunshine when in 
bloom. We gave a good soaking to trees in the Peach house, 
the fruit swelling to ripening, using previous to watering a 
sprinkling of superphosphate on the borders. Weak guano 
water is also very beneficial after the last swelling is progress- 
ing. We have less faith in guano than heretofore, we fear 


May 25, 1871. ] 


the old fields are worn out; 1oz. to the gallon when genuine } 
was enough, a little cow-droppings water helps to give cool- 
ness. After all there is nothing much better than water made 
from the droppings of animals, if allowed to ferment and clear 
itself previous to use. Employing it so thick so as to leave a 
crust on soil or pot, keeps out the air, and so far is injurious. 

Vineries.—We proceeded with thinning fruit, and tying and 
regulating the late Vines. Those in the orchard house are show- 
ing well, though at first they had only 2 feet of a border, and we 
have not yet been able to extend it to the walk in front, but 
we suspect the roots are now among the rubble, and passing 
under the walk. Wo have failed every year to proceed with 
renewing and extending Vine borders by degrees; there has 
been so much todo. Wecannot touch the outside borders at 
present, as they are a thicket of bedding plants, but we watered 
in front of the wall plate with warmed manure water to make 
sure that the roots were not too dry. When the bedding 
plants are gone we shall move the litter and leaves, so that the 
sun heat will duly warm the soil, but we shall not do that at 
once, or in 2 hurry, as the uncovering of Vine borders which 
have been kept a little warm, if cold weather ensue, is apt 
to give a check. As soon as a press of fresh work has been 
finished we should like to find time and material to renew the 
Vines by degrees, and then we should be content with finer and 
much fewer bunches. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

We have nearly finished the pleasure ground changes. | 
Lately we adverted to changes, even as changes, being de- | 
sirable. It should never be lost sight of, that the very best | 
possible combinations and arrangements at one time, may be 
anything but the best a number of years afterwards. In a new 
pleasure ground many things may be introduced as stand- 
points and for variety, even if somewhat mechanical or merely 
artistic, that would be better away when shrubs and trees are 
assuming bold and massive proportions. 

In most of the turfing lately done we had the sods soaked 
before laying them down, and this saves much labour after- 
wards. All the stretches of fresh turfing now look as if they 
had been laid down for years, and even as respects manage- 
ment there is a great advantage in filling up every hollow, for 
ease alike to scythe and machine. Let us hint once more, that 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[Jh} 
“1 
vo 


a large lawn kept near the mark is a large source of expense. 

We have had much potting and moving, and hardening off | 
bedding plants, leaving them exposed in the beds at night, | 
except Coleus, and plants of a similar nature, which still have | 
protection, as we shall not think of turning them ont for several 
weeks; probably about the 23rd we may begin to plant out 
finally, but a press of other matters has prevented our pre- 
paring the ground so well as we like. 

We pricked off tender annuals, and fresh potted Ferns, Cala- 
diums, &e., giving the latter strong lumpy loam, with sweet 
manure andcharcoal. Placed Achimenesand Gesneras in good | 
positions.—R. F. 


Harty Pras.—Mr. G. Green,, gardener to the Ven. Arch- 
deacon Fitzgerald, of Charlton Mackerell, Somerset, picked bis 
first dish of Peas on the 10th, although he might have done 
so on the Sth inst. The sort was Sutton’s Ringleader. They 
were sown in the open air on November 19:h, and had but 
little protection. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


John Harrison, Grange Road, Darlington.—List of New Roses for 
1871. 

James Dickson & Sons, 102, Hastgate Street, and Newton Nur- 
series, Chester.— Catalogue of Bedding-out and Border Plants, New 
Roses, éc.—Supplementary List of Stove and Greenhouse Plants. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS: 

*,* We request that no.one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘“ Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, éc., 171, Flect 
Street, London, E.C. 

N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. 

Booxs (J. M.S. P. T.).—The ‘‘ Cottage Gardeners’ Dictionary ” is 6s. Ed. 
and the postage would be Sd. 


FRUITERERS (JV. P.).—Write to Messrs. Webber, Fruiterers, Central 
Avenue, Covent Garden Market. In Kelly’s ‘‘ London Directory” you will 
find a long list. 


Pear LEAVES BLACKENED (TZ. Barnes).—It is caused by cold. See an 
answer March 11th, No. 528, p. 342 

Liguip GuANo FoR RosEs (Subscriber)—We should put from 10 lbs, 
to 12 lbs. of guano to the 56-gallon cask of water, stirring it well up and 
allowing it to settle before use. When empty it will not require so much 
to bring it to the same strength again, as a good portion of the guano is 
only partially or slowly soluble, and 6 lbs. or 7 lbs. will be enough. Much 
depends, of course, upon the quality of the guano. Once a-week will be 
often enough to apply the liquid manure unless the weather should be 
very dry. 

ManeErtti Rost Stoces (G. W. H.).—It is very doubtful if the three~ 
year-old Manetti stocks transplanted in the spring of 1870, will ever be 
worth budding on. It would be much better to keep them as stock from 
which to raise cuttings, as the suckers they are now sending up will 
make strong sboots this summer, and will be very good for making into 
lengths for cuttings in the autumn of the present year, inserting them 
about 8 inches apart in rows 8 feet from eachother. Make each cutting 
from 7 to 9 inches long, of the strongest and smoothest part of the suckers. 
Each sucker will then make two or three good plants for budding in two 
years’ time. Some of the best may be budded where they stand in the 
following season. The rows of cuttings should be earthed-up like Celery, 
only leaving the two top eyes out of the ground, and in transplanting the 
lower eyes ought to be cut out. If the stocks must be budded this season, 
it would be better to bud on the young suckers, cutting away all the old 
wood, and if carefully done the suckers may be separated with the bud 
on them, especially if, after cutting away the old wood, the suckers are 
earthed-up so as to encourage them to emit roots, in which case if the 
plants were strong, three or four suckers on each of the Manetti stocks 
might be budded. This plan would require care and attention, but success 
would be much more likely than in budding on the old wood, especially 
as no Roses on the Manetti do well unless they are planted with the 
junction of the scion and stock at least 2 inches below the ground. 


Founeus on RosE Leaves (J. L. G. and Rose Garden).—The Rose leaves: 
are injured by the orange fungus ; the whole of the leaves are covered with 
its spores though not visible to the naked eye. The orange patches are 
the nuclei from which the spores are spreading. It is not necessary to 
pick off all the affected leaves, but if any are very bad they had better be 
removed. Syringe the Rose trees with soft-soap water, 2 ozs. to the gallon, 
and dust sulphur on them while wet. The plants may be syringed with 


| pure water two or three days after the application of the soft.soap and 


sulphur. If the fungus is not destroyed by the first application, try a 
second. 


YELLow Funeus on Roses (An Old Subseriber).—You will see an ap- 
plicable answer in our last number. 


GERANIUM LEAVES SporreD (C.J. S.).—We are unable to account for 
the spot on the leaves, otherwise than that it is due to the plants being 
grown in too rich soil, the watering being excessive, and the atmosphere 
too close. We think more air and earlier in the day, accompanied with - 
more heat, would set them right. 

VARIEGATED GERANIUMS (A Constant Subscriber). — Silver Tricolor 
Geraniums are Variegated Geraniums. We never saw Silver Tricolors 
exhibited against Gold Tricolors exclusively. 


Compost For Musk, GERANIUMS, AND CALCEOLARIAS (A Subscriber). 
—For Musk, two parts light turfy loam and one part of leaf soil and 
Sandy peat in equal proportions, with a free admixture of sharp sand. 
For Geraniums, two parts light turfy loam and one part leaf soil or old 
rotten manure, adding sand liberally. For the Calceolarias, two parts 
fibrous loam, one part leaf soil, and half a part of old cow dung. For 
seedling plants of the last two the soil must be made very fine, and psr- 
ticularly for Calceolarias. adding fully one-fourth of silver sand. Sow 
the Calceolaria seed on the surface, just covering with silver sand. We 
cannot recommend you a book on the management of pigs. 


GERANIUM LEAVES SpoTTeD (G. W.).—We are uuable to account for 


| the spots on the leaves, but consider more heat, less water, and a free 


sweet soil with abundance of air would set them all right. It is due to 

the plants in a majority of cases growing freely, and whilst so doing re- 
ceiving a check. It is very prevalent this season, in a great measure 

owing to the changeable weather. We do not Enow where shoots of the 
Indiarnbber plant are sold for grafting or budding. 


Buack Dots oN GERANIUM AND FucuHsra LEAVES (Poplar).—The small 
dots on the Geranium and Fuchsia leaves are caused by asmall fly, which 
has been brought into the house with the horse droppings. We know of 
no means of freeing the leaves of the black dots. hey may, however,. 
be removed to some extent by frequent syringing, but most of the dots 
will only be removed with the leaves. 


APPLE AND CURRANT TREES (Amateur).—The Apple tree leaves are 
attacked by mildew; the remedy is flowers of sulphur applied by a 
sulphur-distribator, or by the syringe. In the case of Apple trees, 2 ozs. 
of soft soap and $1b. of sulphur being mixed with sufiicient warm water 
to form a thin paste, then add two gallons of water, and with this syrince 
the trees. The Currant trees also losing their leaves, and the fruit not. 
setting, would lead to the supposition that your garden is not drained, or 
imperfectly so. This, with the continued cold east winds would lead to 
the evils you complain of. If the roots have struck into a cold subsoil, 
root-pruning would be beneficial; this should be done in the autumn, 
and if practicable add some fresh turfy loam at the same time. 


Apricot TREES GUMMING AND Party DrEap (A Gardener in Trouble). 
—It is not an uncommon occurrence for the branches of Apricot trees ie 
die off in the way stated in your letter. We have known them do¢ro in 
every stage of their growth, and this season more than usual. We'haye 
some trees on a south border, where the border is partially shaded bya 
wall, but not the trees; and the evil you complain of has troubled us 
much. Another tree on the gable end of a shed with the same exposure, 
but where the border is drier and unshaded by a wall, is quite free from 
it. Ifthe Peach trees were infested with red spider or aphis last season 
there will be much dead wood this year. Another cause is a damp rich 
border, but as the Peaches on the south aspect are the worst, we shoul 
suppose that the hot dry summer of last year had something to do with 
it. As ‘all the bottom and middle of the tree” has died, you must 
replant with young trees. If the trees had not been so badlz affected, 
and if an unsuitable border was the cause, lifting the greater portion of 
the roots, removing as much as convenient of the old soil, and replac- 
ing with pure turfy loam, would have beentheremedy. Galyanised wires 


374 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ May 25, 1871. 


make a neat trellis for garden walls; they should be strained horizontally 
6 inches apart, and ought to fit closely to the wall; care must be observed 
that the shoots are not tied too tightly to the wires so that the bark is 
cut, or they will certainly gum. 


APRIcoT SHooTs AND BranoHeEs Dyine (J. B. W.).—The branches die- 
off from gum, for which there is no known remedy. It is common to all 
kinds alike, but especially the Moorpark. 

CLIMBER FOR INTERMEDIATE House (D. M).—Cissus discolor would 
succeed if you were to keep it dry in winter, but we should prefer one of 
the Passifloras, and as there is a doubt of its flowering, from the shade, 
we should plant P. trifasciata, which has pretty foliage. Hoya carnosa 
variegata would also suit. 


HousE FoR WINTERING BEDDING Puants (A Lancashire Subseriber).— 
The position of the lean-to fronting the west will do very well for bedding 
plants. The hardiest Vines would ripen well, as the Black Hamburgh 
and Royal Muscadine. We would plant them at the back, train them to 
the top of the wall, and then down the roof. Some five Vines would do, 
or six if very anxious. If the back wall should be at all warm, then 
train the stem up 6 inches from the wall. Whether the heatin the chim- 
ney and the back room will be sufficient to keep out frost we cannot say 
without knowing the heat thrown out, but in one case we had a slab of 
iron 2 feet square put near the stove or fireplace, and that was suilicient. 
One thing is certain—if this heat should not be sufficient, a small iron 
stove inside the house near the front would keep all safe. If, instead of 
Vines, you preferred Cucumbers in summer and had no extra heat, you 
<ould grow them successfully only from the middle of Juue to the end of 
September. 


MusxHroom Beps out oF Doors (Mouceron).—Those made in Novem- 
ber we should have expected to bear in general in two months after 
spawning. Their bearing only a little now we attribute to their being 
c-vered thinly with straw, and then old mats thrown over them, We 
should have liked from 6 to 9 inches of straw in such a winter. The 
keeping them cool has retarded their bearing; but as they may now 
come plentifully we would give a little water at about 70° if necessary, 
and keep a slight covering on, and you may gather a good lot from the 
beds if the spawn was not injured, and it is not easily injured by dry 
cold. Now is a good time to make small beds out of doorsin a shady 
place, and we insist on the latter, as the heat of June and July is quite 
enough for the Mushroom unless there is a little shade. The covering 
of the beds after the end of this month is chiefly for maintaining uni- 
formity of temperature and moisture. 


About 60° is the best average. | 


We have never had Mushrooms better in summer than when grown in | 


‘small ridges under the deep shade of trees, and the ridges covered witha 
little rough hay to keep them moist and not too warm. We have had 


«quite as good Mushrooms under an open shed witb less trouble, only the | 


shed, however rude, added to the first expense. 


PANSIES FOR SPRING FLOWERING (Brambridge).—If you plant out good 
strong young plants of these in a warm border close to the sea, we have 


no doubt they will succeed if they are not exposed to the sea spray. | 


‘Golden Pyrethrum and Myosotis would also succeed, but they would not 
do if the salt water reached them. We do not know of an early-spring 
Aowering plant that would endure the sea spray. 


Currant BusHes INFESTED WITH Aputs (X. Z., Herts).—A safe remedy 
ds syringing with a solution of 2 ozs. of soft soap to the gallon of water. 
‘The blackening of the shoots cannot be due to aphis, though the insect 
may have destroyed the growths. 
‘solution, wetting every part, and choosing a mild calm evening. 


CucuMBERS GROWING IN AN UNHEATED House (W. W. B.).—With a 
2-feet bed of horse droppings fresh from the stable you may grow Cucum- 
bers very well during the summer, taking care to shut up early in the 
-afternoon, in order to husband the sun’s heat. 
bed and allow it to heat without covering with more than the sods, and 
when the heat has risen and is not more than the hand can bear, place 
on the bed a hillock of soil 1) inches deep where you intend to plant, and 


Syringe, however, with the soft-soap , 


We would make upthe , 


put out a plant on each hillock after the soil has become warmed. Asthe | 


plants grow you can add more soil, so as to cover the bed with about 
1 foot deep of soil. The bed ought to be about 4 feet wide. Water as 
sequired, and sprinkle eyery available surface frequently, especially when 
shutting up for the day, so as to maintain a moist congenial atmosphere. 


Wisraria Stem Decayine (H. Y. Y.)—The hole in the stem probably 
results from some injury. There can be no doubt that it will spread, and 
we would at once fill it up with clay and cow dung as you propose, and 
cover the bark 2 or 3 inches beyond the edges of the hole, and we should 
add more as this composition cracks and falls off. By these means you 
will probably induce the bark to grow so as to close up the hole in time, 
‘but you must have patience. 


Compost For PaLms (EZ. E.).—Chamzrops humilis succeeds in some 
‘situations out of doors, and thrives in a greenhouse. Phoenix sylvestris 
will also succeed in a greenhouse, but is best if not subjected to a lower 
temperature than 45°. Dasylirion acrotrichum is not a Palm, and suc- 
ceeds in a greenhouse, but best in a temperature of not less than 45° in 
winter, For the Palms, use two parts fibrous brown peat, torn up roughly, 
and one part turfy loam, with half a part silver sand. Good drainage is 
mecessary. The end of April or beginning of May is a good time to repot 
‘them. The Dasylirion does well in a compost of two parts fibrous loam, 
and one part each of sandy peat and old cow dung or well-decayed manure, 
with a free adm’xture of sharp sand. The best time torepot is when the 
plant is beginning to grow, or in April. Repot it at once. 


Moss 1n A SHRuBBERY (R. L.).—It will not do to employ lime that 
comes from your gasworks for the destruction of moss in the shrubbery. 
In any considerable quantity it will be injurious to the roots.of the trees 
and shrubs, and in any case worse than the moss, to which we can see 
no objection. We consider that after the shrubs are well established the 
pout should not be disturbed. It spots their effect, and is injurious to 
the roots. 


Moss (J. K, P.)—We think No. 1 is one of the Sphagnums, probably 
4. obtusifolium. You do not say in what sense you wish us to pronounce on 
‘the qualities of the two specimens. For Orchids No 1 alone is suitable, 
and would require to be obtained from damper ground, where it would 
grow considerably thicker, and be of finer quality. No. 2 is not 1 Moss, 
but a Lichen, and we think it is Cenomyce racemosa, a very pretty kind, 
Superior in point of beauty to No.1, though both are yery pretty. We 


| Coleus. 


should be obliged if any of our experienced Orchid-growers would give a 
list of those Orchids most desirable for their fragrant flowers. 


GROWING ASTERS FOR Exurpition (Subscriber E. H.).—You do not 
say whether they are for exhibiting as cut blooms or plants in pots. Sow 
the seed in April or May on a spent hotbed, or ina cold frame, putting in 
about 9 inches of horse droppings or short stable litter, making firm, and 
covering with 4 inches of good, rich, light soil. Sow the seed in drills 
about 2 inches apart, and thinly cover with fine soil. Put on the lights 
and keep them close until the seedlings appear, then give abundance of 
air, so as to have them strong and stiff. Keep the soil moist, and when 
they show the second leaf, or are about an inch high, prick them off ina 
bed prepared as for sowing the seeds, placing them about 2 inches apart, 
and put on the lights. Keep the plants rather close and shaded for a few 
days, and then admit air freely, planting out when they are 3 inches 
high. The ground in which they are to be planted should be deeply dug, 
well manured, and frequently turned over so as to have it in a thoroughly 
pulverised state. The situation should be open, but sheltered from 
wind. For planting out, choose showery weather, and water until the 
plants are established, cootinuing to do so in dry weather once or twice 
a-week, and give manure water at every alternate watering until the 
flowers expand. Plant 18 inches apart in rows 2 feet from each other. 
Mulch between the rows with spent stable dung about an inch thick. 
When the flowers show colour shade with tiffany, or put over them a 
tiffany awning, which may remain day and night, only it ought to be at 
some distance from the plants. Look carefully for green aphis, and 
whenever any is seen syringe or sprinkle with tobacco water, using 2 ozs. 
of tobacco to a gallon of water, taking care to sprinkle the centre of the 
plants. If you grow the plants in pots place one plant in a 9-inch pot, 
watering with liquid manure when the roots reach the sides of the pot, 
and sprinkling with water overhead daily. It is best to plantin a 6-inch 
pot in the first instance, and then to transfer the plants to 9-inch pots 
when the roots reach the sides. The main point is to keep the plants 
strong and stiff, growing them without check. They should be trans- 
planted with balls. A compost of loam from rotted turyes a year old 
chopped up rather small, one part leaf soil, and half a part of well-rotted 
manure, with a free admixture of sand, and good drainage, will grow 
them perfectly. 

PEA STaLKs AND LEAVES YELLOW (J. C.).—The Pea haulm you have 
sent is variegated with yellow, owing, we think, to the cold of the present 
spring. The excrescences on the roots are peculiar to the Pea, but they 
are unusually large, and are,no doubt, the feeding ground of the mag- 
gots which you saw when you pulled up the Pea hau'm. We do not 
know that anything would do good, except, perhaps, a dressing of quick- 
lime. We fear they will do little good, though warmer weather would 
be of great service tothem. The ground, we sheuld say, is very full of 
vegetable matter—leaf soil or decaying manur2. Give.a good dressing 
of lime when the ground is vacant. We hear from all quarters a bad 
account of the Apple orop. 


CLEARING WATER IN PonD (Goddess).—The water will clear unless it 
be agitated, but we would cover the bottom with gravel, and plant a few 
aquatic plants—Nymphiea alba if you have 2 feet of water. Gold and 
silver fish would thrive in it in summer, but we fear they would not sur- 
vive a severe winter like the past. You could, however, thatch a portion 


| of the pond on the approach of winter, and that would probably save 


them. Charcoal we do not consider necessary. 


CLEARING LAwN oF WEEDs (E£. D. M.).—We do not know of any better 
way of freeing a lawn of Dandelions and other weeds than grubbing them 
up with a grubber, and dropping in each hole a pinch of salt. This will 
destroy Docks, Dandelions, Plantain, and all tap-rooted weeds. No book 
gives the names of varieties of plants, and specially of such things as 
All plants worth growing are to be found in the “ Cottage Gar- 
deners’ Dictionary,” but the varieties, which are ever changing or giving 
place to newer and improyed kinds, are only to be found in catalogues, 
the ‘‘ Gardeners’ Year Book,’ and works deyoted to particular branches 
of floriculture. Under the Chestnut trees no flowering plants would 
grow, but the different kinds of Periwinkle would give a neat green cover- 
ing to the surface, and so would Ivies. 


DiantHus HEDDEWIGI SEEDLINGS (Somerset).—Seedlings of the size 
you enclosed to us will, no doubt, flower well this autumn, but we would 
now harden them well off, and plant out earlyin June. Light rich soil 
is most suitable. 

CoB@a SCANDENS VARIEGATA SEEDLINGS GOING OFF (J. F.).—The cause 
is probably due to raising from seeds of variegated plants, which usually 
do not pass beyond the second pair of leaves. Try again, sowing in light 
soil, and placing in a hotbed, continuing in heat until they are well es- 
tablished in small pots ; then harden off and remove to the greenhouse. 


RooTLetTs FROM VINE BRANCHES (J. Norman).—It is as usual for the 
Vine to throw out such sprout rootlets in a moist atmosphere as it is for 
the Ivy to send its roots into brickwork. You haye not syringed, but 
there has been plenty of evaporation of moisture. As the Vines are so 
strong and healthy you may be satisfied, but we would lessen the evapo- 
ration by degrees ; and not to give any check to the Vines we would re- 
move all these sprout-like roots by degrees, not at once, as the more these 
are encouraged in the atmosphere of the house the g-eater is the disincli- 
nation to free rooting in the earth. We have tried many experiments 
with air roots, but we have always found that when niuch encouraged 
the roots in the soil seemed to be discoursged. We think you are all 
right as to cropping, but at the age of the Vines err on the safe side, and 
donot take too many bunches. We fear, however, that we are rather bad 
advisers, we always take too many. 


ConstRucTING A Pir (D. M.).—We think the proposed pit will answer 
very well for the purpose aimed at, only more light would be an adyan- 
tage, there being only a short span-roof over side walls about 6 feet in 
height. We presume these walls are built of brick-on-bed, say 44 inches. 
We would prefer them to be 9 inches, either solid or hollow, and then by 
outjutting bricks at regular levels you could place platforms across. 
With the heat below, the plunging medium is unimportant. To retain a 
little heat nothing is better than tan. For mere retaining heat ‘given, 
cocoa-nut fibre is excellent, and so are rough ashes, &c. 


RIppELL’s Hor-warer Apparatus (Amateur, Cirencester).—The best 
way to use such a hot-water stove would be to have the stove or boiler 
inside the house, and feed it from the outside. You thus get rid of all 
dust, &c. Such a stove would require but a small smoke-shaft, say 
6 inches wide and 6 feet long, with a damper. You might have the boiler 


May 25, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


375 


inside, and just shut it off in a simple way to prevent dust getting into 
the house, or damp the ashes before moving them. We approve of attach- 
ing water-pipes to such a stove boiler ; but for a small house, if we studied 
first cost, we would have the boiler alone, or even a good iron or brick 
stove. We have an old stove in use, with a 3-inch 9-feet iron pipe from 
it as a chimney, that does wonders, but werun a pole through the pipe 
often. By placing your stove inside you will save much fuel. 

ORANGE AND LEMON TREES INFESTED WITH Mnaty Bue (R. J.S. H.) 
—Wash them with a solution of 8 ozs. of soft soap to a gallon of water, 
and to every gallon add twenty drops of spirits of turpentine. You may 
syringe them with this at a temperature of 140°, and wash afterwards 
with a sponge and the same solution. This pest requires the greatest 
jatience and perseverance to get rid of it. 

NAMEs oF Pants (Rab, the Greenhorn).—Saxifraga sarmentosa. (4 
Constant Reader),—1, Saxifraga Geum; 2, Ribes speciosum; 3, Allium 
ursinum. (Mary).—Statice sinuata. (F. D.).—Myosotis palustris. Give 
your plants as good treatment as you can, and if any show superior ex- 
cellence select them to propagate from. We see no other answer to your 
question. (D. W. B.).—Berberis Darwinii (A Subscriber)—Erythrina 
Humei. Possibly from Palermo, where it no doubt is cultivated, but 
native of the Cape Colony. (R. I. S.).—Rhododendron Dalhousie. 
(F. H. Y.).—1, Erica Bauerea; 8, E. jasminiflora ; 4, E. aristata ; 5, Hibis- 
eus Cooperi. (H. B.).—Clematis montana. (Omega)—1l, Cochlearia 
officinalis; 2, Cardamine hirsuta; 3, Alchemilla arvensis. (J. L., Sur- 
Diton).—We cannot name either florists’ varieties or plants from leaves 
only; your enclosure is of both. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


REARING CHICKENS. 


In reply to the letter of ‘0. P. Q.,” respecting his chicken 
losses, Iam not quite sure that I should join with Mr. Kell in 
calling them ‘ prodigious.” If I understand him, he expects 
to rear about 70 per cent. of those actually hatched; and as 
his complaint is under date of May 4th, a large proportion of 
these must have been hatched rather early. Now I certainly 
do not consider Dorkings so easy to rear as other breeds, and 
while 30 per cent. mortality is by no means satisfactory, for 
March and April Dorking chickens, especially in such a biting 
Spring as we have had this year, I would not call it so very bad. 

_I think it is doubtful if breeding-in be the cause, for Dor- 
zings being bred more for size than colour, this one breed 
is, perhaps, more free from that particular evil than any other. 
What the cause may actually be it is very difficult to say, unless 
“O. P. Q.” describe the size and nature of his nursery accom- 
modation, whether grass or dry ground for instance, kind of 
shelter or shedding, &c., and especially the symptoms which 
have chiefly marked the losses. In the absence of these or 
any other particulars, the only thing that strikes me in his 
general treatment is that nearly all the food, highly nutritious 
as it is, appears to be of a costive tendency. The egg, the rice, 
the potatoes—all tend that way, but chiefly the egg, which I 
am certain, from experience, is, as a continuous food, very in- 
jurious. I should give the meat every day, and the chopped 
ege only now and then to correct any symptoms of looseness. 
Of the value of bone dust in rearing chickens I have repeatedly 
‘spoken, and chickens regularly fed with it scarcely ever suffer 
from diarrhcea. But, on the whole, I am inclined to think 
that the most important point in the feeding of young chicks 
is to mix with the oatmeal a little bread and plenty of grass, 
cut into green chaff an eighth of an inch long, which is easily 
done by taking a quantity in the hand and cutting it off with a 
large pair of scissors. Chickens thus fed will eat with real 
appetite nearly half as much again, and the food mixed with 
milk will keep nearly double the time before getting sour. 
‘The green chaff may also be thrown down alone at intervals. 
It is literally impossible for chicks to have too much grass, 
and when thus fed their bowels, at least, scarcely ever go wrong, 
for while an occasional surfeit of green food will cause danger- 
ous looseness, a constant supply has with nearly all poultry an 
exactly contrary effect. By thus mixing green chaff in the 
food Dorkings may be reared with great success, even without 
a grass run, so far as size and health go, though nothing but 
grass will give that beautiful bloom which is so requisite in a 
country-bred fowl. Many of Mr. Douglas’s best birds were 
reared in such gravelled yards; and though it is not fair to 
compare Brahmas with such a breed as Dorkings, I may per- 
haps mention, as a proof of what may be done with care ina 
limited space, that my chicken run consists only of a piece of 
bare earth 22 by 25 feet, with a shed 6 feet wide up one side, 
and that not one of the forty-six chickens I have hatched this 
year has yet left it, notwithstanding which I have only lost 
three—two by accident, and the third a weakly one, which 
only lived till three days old. 

But after general diet and treatment are determined upon, 


I believe very much of good or ill success in rearing depends 
on adapting them to the varying circumstances of weather day 
by day. The direction of a keen wind, for instance, should 
always be noted, and the coop carefully placed, so that the 
chicks may be sheltered. After several days’ trying weather 
there may bea tendency to looseness, and in such a case some 
rice or chopped egg will be of great service. If the broods 
seem suffering I always give some spice or condiment in severe 
days. When the sun is hot, on the contrary, shade must be 
carefully provided, for heat is nearly as bad as cold; and in 
very dry seasons copious watering of the ground occasionally 
will make a great difference to the broods. I need not carry 
this further, as everyone’s common sense will teach what is 
proper to be done under not only these but other special cir- 
cumstances of the hour. I may, however, add, that on two 
occasions, when the fate of a brood was evidently doubtful 
after many days of the miserable weather we had in April, I 
sayed them by putting them for about two days in an attic on 
a wood floor well sanded. For permanent lodging I believe 
wood the very worst floor that can be; but for a few days in 
such an emergency I never knew harm come of such a change, 
and the effect of the perfect dryness and shelter on chicks a 
week old, when nipped by several days’ wet or biting winds, is 
really marvellous; mine came out into the air again totally 
different creatures. 

Like Mr. Kell, I rarely use sulphate of iron when all is well, 
but invariably add it to the water on a day either wet or much 
colder than usual. I think he forgets that in a state of nature — 
the hen rarely hatches earlier than May when all is bright and 
warm ; and if we procure chickens in unnaturally cold weather, 
‘‘natural’”? feeding may, perhaps, be scarcely sufficient to bear 
the trial. Ido, however, believe that any unnatural stimulus, 
whether it be iron, spice, ale, or anything else, must, if con- 
tinued, be injurious. Special treatment should always be re- 
served for special needs. 

In such seasons as the present many hens do not brood the 
chickens enough for warmth, and I have myself, in fact, been 
driven to making artificial mothers. They are very simple, - 
consisting only of a sheepskin mat, 18 inches square, tacked 
round the edges to the inside of the top of a shallow box, with 
no bottom nor front. It is amusing to see how the chicks will 
creep in for ‘‘a warm,” even while with the hen; and when 
used to it they may be taken away from her almost at any 
time, which is often a convenience. The box should be about 
7 inches deep, and can be bedded into the loose dry earth of a 
shed deeply enough to take the smallest chicks when needful. 
By throwing food under it they readily learn to goin. I ought 
in fairness to say that for this useful idea I was indebted to 
the intelligent poultry manager of Mr. E. Jones. 

Custard is, I think, best made by beating up egg and milk, 
cold, in equal parts, and then putting it in a saucer on the top of 
a stove to set. Chickens are very fond of it, and it is undoubt- 
edly good food, but is very expensive, and I am very doubtful if 
they get on any better withit than on plainer diet. I never met 
anyone who could say there was any marked difference. The 
easiest and best change, when chickens become tired of oatmeal 
slaked with milk, is to give them porridge. They may have 
new milk to drink to any extent, so thatit shall never be allowed 
to stay till sour ; and I believe this to be equal, if not superior, 
to custard in its effect on the birds.—L. Wricur. 


GREAT HARWOOD SHOW. 


THE paragraph in the Journal of the 4th inst. bearing my 
signature was, as Mr. Ashworth has been already informed by 
letter, part of a reply, quite too lengthy for publication, in 
answer to the Editors’ private inquiry of me, ‘‘ Who is this 
Mr. Ashworth ?”’ It was written as a private reply to a private 
letter, for, I continued, I did not myself know Mr. Ashworth if 
I met him, for he was an entire stranger, as I knew nothing 
myself of his individuality. Even the portion of the letter as 
now printed states it was by me written ‘‘ for your (the Editors’) 
information.” Ihave received so many anonymous, and also 
other letters, bearing (now proved) fictitious signatures, from 
the neighbourhood of the show since this affair, that I cannot 
but regard many of them as purposely forwarded by the writers 
to provoke further quarrels and misunderstandings. So much 
for wilfal intention on my part to criminate anyone unjustly. 

As to the suggestion of Mr. Ashworth, that ‘the wisest and 
cleverest of men are liable to make mistakes,” it is simply 
trying to beg the question, as in the case of the prize Dragoons 
at Harwood a mistake in colour was an impossibility. In 


376 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 25, 1872 


judging where different breeds compete in the same class, I 
have always as a first step, before making the awards, noted 
down the respective breeds opposite the numbers in my judging 
book; and in case of various colours of the same variety com- 
peting, colour has been ag invariably prefixed. At Harwood 
Show I find both the winning pens of Yellow Dragoons were 
afterwards each checked off five separate times during the judg- 
ing, which, if a mistake, would necessitate in all twelve con- 
secutive mistakes on these two pens alone, which even any one 
check would at first sight have corrected. Both pens were 
Yellows without any mistake; my award-book is unmistakeable 
evidence, and I am prepared to ratify this fact by the most 
solemn deposition. 

As one proof of the unmerited annoyances to which I have 
been subjected for simply and fearlessly doing my duty, I have 
forwarded for your perusal the whole correspondence between 
Mr. Ashworth and myself, with other official vouchers, totally 
confuting his uncalled-for insinuations. On return they will 
be open for inspection, and will give conclusive proof that I am 
far more sinned against than sinning.—Epwarp Hrwirt. 

{This letter must close the subject in our columns. We 
have read the letters that have been received, and copies of 
those written by Mr. Hewitt, and our thorough conviction is 
there was foul play. Who was the delinquent we do not 
attempt to say, though if it could be proved to us wo would 
hold him up to the scorn he deserves. Hvery lover of honesty 
must regret that Mr. Hewitt has been subjected to so much 
annoyance, but we are sure that it will not deter him from his 

* well-known honourable course.—EDs. | 


THE VARIETY OF PIGEONS YOU SHOULD 
KEEP. 

Once at a poultry show, I noticed that an elegant-looking 
young lady was much attracted by the Pigeons. She stood 
before this pen and that pen, now her head on one side, then 
on the other, scrutinising and admiring; she drew the at- 
tention of her mother to this variety and that variety. That 
mother, a dear, pretty old lady, gentleness and goodness itself, 
more than once kindly said, ‘‘ Whichever you like, dear.” 
How many nice old ladies there are in the world, kind and un- 
salfish, and therefore loved, and therefore very happy! I 
said this was a very pretty old lady; hush! impertinent 
youths of both sexes, and especially of the softer, whichever 
that may be, there is such a thing as a pretty old lady. Ah! 
prettier than many of you young ones, and agreat deal prettier, 
too, and this was avery pretty old lady. She had abundance 
of snow-white hair, a smooth wrinkleless forehead, bright 
but at the same time gentle-looking black eyes, and a neat, 
oblong, finely-chiselled face. She looked, too, so calm, and 
quiet, and good, and she was ready, I am sure she was, ‘‘ to 
go up higher.” The daughter was pleasing, too, tall and 
graceful, and her lip playfully pouting now and then. ‘ Like 
her father,” I said to myself, for the mother was a widow, 
and in the lavender stage of her weeds. The daughter drew, 
almost dragged, her mother to notice the Pigeons, and kept 
saying, ‘‘I should like to keep Pigeons so much, but I do not 
know which sort to keep,” emphasising these words with a 
sharp tap of her parasol on the pens, and the old lady always 
said in reply, ‘‘ Whichever you like, dear.” Bat this, though 
most amiable on her part, did not help the young lady toa 
solution of her difficulty; nor, I believe, was that young lady 
alone in her difficulty. I have had the question put to me by 
word and by letter more than once, so I can well imagine a 
great number of persons who, having had their attention at- 
tracted (and what more attractive?) by the beautiful speci- 
mens of all the varieties of fancy Pigeons exhibited at a good 
show, have had this question on their lips, ‘‘ What variety 
of Pigeons shall I keep?” This question I shall now en- 
deavour to answer for the benefit of inquirers of all sorts and 
sizes, of all ages and both sexes, of all ranks and all capacities 
of purse. 

Fancy Pigeons are very numerous as well as very beautiful, 
and there are almost infinite varieties of form, ag well as 
blending of feather. Where will you find such varied beauty ? 
Nowhere, I think, in one class of bird. Hence tastes the very 
opposite may be gratified. Does the eye delight in colour ?— that 
can be gratified; witness especially some of the German Toys, 
especially the Suabians. Does another delight in gracefulness 
ofform?—thatcan also be gratified, witness the slender Dragoon, 
and stronger Carrier; or another delight in size?—Runts the 


long, and Pouters the tall, will please; or another delight in 
smallness and colour?—there is the Almond Tumbler. 

Are you, gentle reader, a man in good easy circumstances, 
not as Charles Lamb hath it, ‘a slender annuitant,” but with 
expenditure less than income? or are you alady having nothing 
to do but sign your name twice a-year to receive from Messrs. 
Plutus & Creesus, those heavy sums? Well, if you are either, 
be thankful that you are so cireumstanced in a world where 
men, aye, and women, too, have to strive and jostle for bread. 
Oh! be very thankful. Now, supposing also that you delight 
in a country life, revel in a landscape, delight in a garden and 
greenhouse, and all country home pleasures, and like to make 
your beautiful home more beautiful each year. Then if so, you 
have the greatest source of Pigeon pleasure at your command, 
for you can keep all the varieties. You can go in for elegance 
of structure ; a breeding-place furthest back, three sides of a 
square, shut in when needed from all cold, where you can sit 
in winter among your pets, or stroll round from box to box, 
cigar alight. This innermost compartment may open into & 
wired space for flight, that again opening into another, where a 
fountain may play, a gentle jet only, and a shallow gravel- 
bottomed space beneath where the birds can wash; and pretty 
creepers may be outside both wired enclosures. A rockery 
and a fernery flanking all this would be ornamental, not de- 
trimental in a garden. Within, the Pigeons of all varieties 
—the tall bulky Pouter beside the tiny dapper Tumbler; the 
long-beaked beside the short-beaked ; the turned-crowned be- 
side the smooth-crowned; the whole-feathered, the pied, the 
chequered, the magpied, the pure white, the raven black, the 
mottled, the splashed, the black-headed, the white-headed, the 
soft-feathered, the hard-feathered. What a lovely assortment 
of feathered pets you would be able to enjoy, and how much 
pleasure you would derive from them! If still a busy man at 
times you would the more enjoy the leisure hour spent with 
your birds; and if quite a retired man, having sheathed your 
sword with which you cut your way to success in life, then 
you would, looking back and talking over your past active 
career—you would have an agreeable pastime for your well- 
earned repose. You would be the very man I shonld, if I 
dared, envy. 

But all are not rich enough to possess all the varieties, there- 
fore the best planis to adopt one variety at a time, and study its 
capabilities, and breed it to perfection. Then each variety of 
man may be suited with some variety of Pigeon. Thus there is 
in the world a walking class of men; a genus to themselves are 
these great walkers, they greatly benefit their shoemaker and 
butcher, while their doctor regards them with great disgust. I 
know the men af onee—thin men, long-legged men, what there 
is of them all bone and muscle; they have a tanned cheek, and 
an expression of face 

“ Gained by knitting of their brows 
Beneath the glaring sun.” 

These are the men who might have been colonists, explorers, 
travellers, and they are the men to keep homing Pigeons. They 
always want a walk and an object. Let them keep Antwerps. 
Farther and further they may extend their walks, and toss 
their birds on some lone hill or breezy down, and timing their 


flight from their hand stride home eager, and hot, and anxious 


to find how long their birds got there before themselves. 

But all men are not great walkers; habit, business, in- 
firmity, or taste, keep some at home. To such their house and 
garden are all in all. They may suitably keep, if on a hill or 
in an open spot, high-flying Tumblers, who, like themselves, 
are— 

“True to the kindred points of heaven and home,” 


face upward watching their birds, or tending them, in which 
there is always a special interest, as Tumblers are the cleverest 
and tamest of Pigeons. Little, confiding, bold fellows they are, 
who will feed out of your hand, and finding nothing in it peck 
sharply at your finger. Then there are the still more home- 
keeping varieties who rarely fly save from the ground to the 
top of their house, and, therefore, never stray away and annoy 
neighbours; at least, neighbours fancy they annoy them. Or, 
again, are you a little pleasant smiling fat man with a dot for a 
nose, a double chin, and double the stomach allotted to most 
men, and witha little weakness for tasty viands ? then ifso, the 
full-fleshed Runt must be your love, not the prize birds, which 
are bad breeders, but the smaller, yet large-bodied and ex- 
ceedingly appetising in pie or from spit. Then if you reside 
in close London, or closer manufacturing town, where cats in 
brigades abound on roof or wall, and make night hideous with 


May 25, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 377 


their music all out of time and harsh, and who would pounce 
on any poor bird if at liberty—still if you hanker after bird 
pets in the form of fancy Pigeons, that hankering can be 
gratified by keeping the Londoner’s Pigeon, his bird for a 
century at least, the elegant-shaped and clegant-coloured 
Almond Tumbler, or his kindred Short-faces. A little room or 
a tiny greenhouse will do, an invalid may tend them and enjoy 
them, and as they must not fly they are the birds for the city, 
or for those persons who are obliged to remain in-doors. 

But there are the ladies, I can suit their special tastes, too. 
The older who remember how neatly the cottage bonnet looked, 
and neater the face inside, they may have reminders of both 
in Jacobins, whose modest folding feathers half hide their 
pretty faces. Or are you a young lady of the present day, with 
chignon and tiny bonnet pinned to the hair? then the Helmet 
and the Tarbit will do for you. Are you Anglo-Catholic, or 
you would say Catholic without the Anglo? there are Nuns, 
Priests, Monks, and Carmelites for you. Or does some ena- 
moured swain declare in your listening ear (foolish fellow !) 
that you are an angel? you can keep Archangels for company. 
Or are you matron, end the lord of the house and of your heart 
has begun to lose his ambrosial locks, and that youngest pet, 
fis pet, thinks it fine fun to stand tip-toe behind papa’s chair, 
and ‘kiss the bald place,” and run off with a shriek, hoping 
to berun after? then like master like Pigeons, for there are 
Baldpates to match; or has he a hirsute chin? there are 
Beards. Or are you tender on ‘a soldier covered with lace,” 
as the nursery rhyme had it? you can have dashing Dragoons, 
or heavier Horsemen, or puffing Trumpeters. Then ladies 
always love the pure white Fantail, the ladies’ Pigeon. If you 
do, be sure and have both varieties, the stouter and flatter- 
tailed Englishman, and the tiny tremulous Scotchman. The 
latter always remind me of a parochial story. I had Jong sus- 
pected an old woman of frequenting the publichouse; one day I 
caught her coming out of one, with too ruddy a face and too 
bright an eye. Next day I brought round the subject when in 
her cottage. She, woman-like, quickly retaliated and declared 
she had not been well ever since I saw her, and it was my 
fault, for it was far too bad of me ‘‘to make her go all 
of a tremble like that.” Cortainly the Scotch Fantail goes 
all of a tremble like the old woman. Some ladies, too, seem 
now-a-days always making point lace, they may keep Laco 
Pigeons. 

Bat, joking apart, the wonderful variety ia the birds will 
suit almost all, if not all varieties of tastes. There is the odd 
little Air Tumbler, or rather house Tumbler, which, though it 
‘cannot fly up to a bench without tumbling, delights some 
persons. But there is one class of mind and taste, and a very 
increasing class apparently, I mean those who enjoy the excite- 
ment of keeping birds for showing, and who dream of silver 
medals and glittering cups, just as others, myself among them, 
like only to keep the birds for home interest and amusement. 
Well, the losers of prizes have a better chance now than ever, 
for a few years since poultry only was exhibited, but now 
Pigeons are almost always shown with poultry ; and was there 
ever such a Columbarian treat as the thousand Pigeons last 
winter at the Crystal Palace Show? No doubt the fancy will 
go on and increase every year, suiling every taste, and persons 
st each taste may know now what variety to keep.— WiLTsHIRE 

ECTOR. 


CRITICISM FROM BEYOND THE STYX. 


RESPECTED Srrs,—You are not, I believe, spiritualists, and 
so do not often receive communications from the place whence 
I date this letter. I write in my character of ‘a blessed 
ghost.” Coleridge, in his ‘‘ Ancient Mariner,” uses the term, 
which the Times Bee-master applied to me. He, pansciolist as 
he is, cannot of course beinerror. As a prophet he foresees 
the future, as a scholar (?) he knows the past. Things pre- 
sent, therefore, confined as they are to the infinitessimally 
small portion of time which separates the past from the future, 
cannot be unknown to him. Several years ago he announced 
my decease in these words—‘‘ The Rey. Chas. Cotton, whilst 
he lived, the Prince of Bee-masters,”’ page 91. Mach obliged 
to him for the compliment, though I am sorry to say I cannot 
return it. 

You will be pleased to hear that an eidolon or ghost of the 
JouRNAL oF Horricunrurm anp Corracr Garprner is weekly 
transmitted to these regions, and a great and anxious crowd 
there is at the dead letter office when the mail comesin. Last 
week I noticed there amongst others the Corycian old man who 


cultivates the Asphodels, over which the mighty Achilles is 
always stalking, and his own lilies and roses to boot, after a 
method which ho has learned from your pages. Aristeus, the 
bee-master, was also there. He, too, is one of your readers, 
and tends the eidola of the bees which he lost in Tempe by 
disease and starvation, on the system which he has learned 
from you, and in consequence preserves them from hunger and 
sickness. In his name, then, in connection with my own, and 
in the interest of the myriads of bees who are every year 
cruelly and wastefully doomed to die, I protest against the 
recommendation of the ‘brimstone torch” contained in an 
otherwise useful letter which you have printed in a late number. 
It is a retrograde step with a vengeance. I should hardly have 
been more surprised had Earl Russell brought in a bill for 
yekindling the fires of Smithfield and burning Cardinal Cullen 
and Archdeacon Manning, tied back to back, at the samo stake. 
I fancy that I have done some litile good during my lifetime 
towards disseminating a knowledge of the better way—better 
because more profitable, as well as morehumane. Bee murder 
(according to Dr. Cumming’s Bee Act) was, I trusted, going out, 
and so to see it recommended again by a writer in your Journal 
caused a cold shudder to run through the eidolon of many a 
bee-master down this way. I beg, therefore, that you will 
give insertion to this our joint protest, ana beg to subscribe 
myself, as of old, your faithful servant,—Wwu. C. Corron, Vale 
of Tempe, Elysian Fields. 

P.S.—If you please I will next week send you some recollec- 
tions of a better way. 


[Pray do, for it will rejoice many others besides ourselves to 
read the communications from you to the bee world.—Ebs. ] 


CAUSES OF HIVES PERISHING IN 
WINTER. 


In compliance with my request, ‘‘A Lanarxsuing Bex- 
KEEPER ” gave a description of the mode in which he ventilates 
his hives during winter, and I now thank him for doing so. 

As a mere theorist I would condemn the practice of entirely 
shutting up the entrances of hives in time of snow; but seeing 
it has been found by actual experiment to be attended with 
good results, I must, in the absence of proof to the contrary, 
accept the statement as correct. The surmise, however, that 
the bees, in the case mentioned by me, might have perished 
by suffocation, and not by improper ventilation, was not sup- 
ported by the evidence presented; and my present purpose in 
writing is to attempt to answer the question, How we may 
know when bees have been suffocated, or have died of cold, 
or of cold and hunger combined ? 

Whenever tho air in a hive becomes close and confined the 
bees are thrown into a restless condition, and begin to venti- 
late. If the entrance is entirely closed general commotion 
follows, and the whole of the inhabitants may be seen running 
over the combs and up and down the sides of the hive in search 
of an outlet. As the movement increases the temperature 
rises, and when the atmosphere within is no longer capable of 
supporting life the bees fall down in masses on the floorboard. 
Few, if any, perish in the cells; they lie in heaps, and present 
a glistening appearance, owing to the perspiration with which 
they are covered. 

But the aspect of things is very different when bees die of 
cold, or of cold and hunger combined. The approach of this 
fatal influence excites no commotion; instead of seeking for 
an.outlet the bees draw closer and closer together, and if the 
combs on which they cluster are empty every vacant cell is 
occupied. In this condition they die; only a few fall down 
and form little pyramids under the interstices of the combs. 
When a hive which has died in this manner is turned up 
and examined, the majority of the bees will be found adhering 
to each other and still suspended between the combs, whilst 
from every empty cell within the clusters a tail may be seen 
protruding. ‘ ae 

There is not, Il imegine, the least difficulty in ascertaining, 
from the appearances presented, whether a hive has become 
defunct from suffocation, or from famine and starvation com- 
bined. Ifthe bees of a hive die of hunger alone when the tem- 
perature is high, there is not the clustering together for warmth 
which has been described. Before succumbing to this cause 
alone many of the bees, though only able to crawl, find their 
way tc the outside, and the ground in front is sometimes 
covered with the helpless and the dead. This occasionally 


578 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTPAGE GARDENER. 


[ May 25, 1872. 


happens in summer, but never in winter, with the famished, 
when frost or great cold prevails. 

With these views I must demur to the supposition that the 
straw hive with its entrance so closed as to admit air and to 
exclude bees, and from which the inch-plug in the crown was 
withdrawn, died from want of air. There was a free passage 
for it between the milk-pan and the skep, and through the 
straw thatching that covered all. The hole left by the plug 
was not obstructed in the least by wax or any foreign body, nor 
were the dead bees on the floorboard at all numerous. Most 
of them occupied empty cells and remained suspended between 
the combs. De Gelieu says, ‘‘I have seen an excellent swarm 
perish in consequence of a slight bend in the board, which left 
an interstice on each side through which a cold north wind 
sifted and froze more than three-fourths of the bees; and no 
after-care was able to save those that were left.” But without 
any chinks, or any openings left for ventilation, the wind may 
blow in at the entrance and circulate through the interior of 
the best-protected hives in such a way as to paralyse the bees 
and occasion death. An instance of this kind came under my 
observation last winter. In a box made of the best material, 
and with its entrance kept carefully free of dead bees, the in- 
habitants all perished through the influence of cold.—R. S. 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


WooD3bRIDGE Pouttry SHow.— We have written to the Secretary for 
prizes awarded, but have received no answer, although it is now ten 
weeks since the Show, and the rules say that if prize money be not re- 
ceived in fourteen days exhibitors will please apply for it—S. & R. 
ASHTON.” 


GurnEa Fowts Layine (Lincolnshire Vicar).—No fowls lay every day 
without stopping. Guinea fowls, in common with others, lay twice in the 
year and a great many eggs, without wanting to sit. They always steal 
their nests if they can. The best authorities, and we hold with them, are 
of opinion that Guinea fowls are strictly monogamous. 


CHICKEN VORACIOUS AND GipDy (EZ. Woollen).—Your chicken is suffer- 
ing from vertigo, or from injury to the head. We advise you to treat it 
with camphor, giving at intervals of eight hours a pill the size of a very 
small garden pea; continue this till the disease disappears. 


PuLtEeT Founp Deap (W. Carr).—Considerable decomposition had set 
in before we received your bird. We should be sorry to give you a false 
report, and, therefore, speak most cautiously. There was no disease 
about her, nor anything to cause death, unlessit were poison. You will 
do well to recollect that a poisonous substance may be accidentally found 
and eaten. We do not think spices good or proper food for fowls. 


Watts Face orf SpanisH Cock (Subscriber).—If sticking plaister fails 
to hold-up the overhanging parts, you haye no remedy that is ad- 
missible. 


RAtTLING IN Fow.’s THroat (C. B.).—The departure of the east wind 
will do much for your fowls. Wash-out all their nostrils. Give them 
some bread soaked in strong beer. Let them have camphor in all their 
water, and give them camphor or Baily’s pills. It is not roup, as the 
breed is not subject to it. It is cold, and it is an indication or a result 
of improper or insufficient feeding. Confine yourself to ground oats or 
barleymeal twice every day. Feed at midday with Indian corn, or table 
and kitchen scraps. 


HatcHinc A CRACKED Hac (W. L.).—We have known a chicken pro- 
duced from a cracked egg, but a piece of stout paper was securely 
fastened over the crack at the time it was made. We can give no in- 
formation about incubators. 


SEPARATING A BRAHMA HEN FROM HER CHICKENS (R. W.).—Our diffi- 
culty is to keep our hens with the chickens, not to induce them to leave 
them. We suppose you, in common with most poultry breeders, keep 
the chickens away from the adults. As soon as a hen under a rip lays 
an egg, we know from that day she is only a step-mother, and we remove 
her to the society of those of her own age. The rip she vacates is left 
open, and the motherless brood roost in it. They are nearly adults 
b fore they care to perch. In hot weather you may move them without 
risk when they are seven or eight weeks old. 


Best Harcurye Tm (EZ. H. R.).—It is a common saying that chickens 

hatched in June never do well. It has passed into a proyerb— 

“ Chicks that are hatched in time of hay 
Will never grow up, but pine away.” = 

We believe it so little that we have “ garnered-up our hearts ” on the pro- 
duce of fifteen or sixteen steady sitters. At the same time we are not 
disposed to undervalue the old tradition. There can be no doubt that if 
we are to choose our own time, we should prefer May to June, because in 
the first month the nights are getting shorter, in the second they are 
getting longer. 

SKIMMED MILK FoR CHICKENS (Oxoniensis)—It would be as good as 
the unskimmed for wetting the meal. 

Ducks’ Eces nor Harcutne (R. P., Ipswich).—It was only a fortnight 
ago that we answered a similar question. As the eggs have been put 
under hens, the cause of the failure is evident—namely, that the eggs 
have been kept too dry. The eggs should be wetted every day, when the 
hen is off the nest. Let the water be just warm enough to communicate 
warmth through the shells. 

Wert Spots on Ecos (N., Lancashire\.—Leave the eggs alone, except 
to sprinkle them with water when the hen is off. 

PROPAGATION oF Licurians (G. B. C.).—A long answer to your in- 
quiries is unavoidably postponed till next week. 

L’QuEFYING CANDIED Honey (@. 4. J.).—We do not know of any pro- 
cess by which you can liquefy your honey candiedin the comb sufficiently 


to enable you to extract it by the centrifugal machine. To clarify the 
honey, place the combs in a large stone jar without any water, which 
must be stood in an iron saucepan or boiler, with water n2arly up to the 
top; simmer gently until the comb is quite melted. Take out the jar 
and let it stay until cold, when the wax, which will have formed into a 
solid cake on the top, can be easily removed. The honey will remain 
clear and fit for use for a considerable time. Your honey congealed 
chiefly from having been kept in too cold a place. 


Hive WITHouT QUEEN (H. J.).—If the brood comb you inserted in the 
hive contdined brood in all stages, or eggs, you have done all that at 
necessary so far. If you can inspect the comb in a week or so from this 
time you will be able to ascertain if royal cells have been raised. You 
will, moreover, probably be able to judge whether your experiment has 
been successful, by observing whether the bees manifest greater activity 
in working and in carrying in pollen. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN SQuaRE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° S’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Dare. | 9 act. In THE Day. 
| ae Radiation 
| Shade Tem-} 5 
Direc- | Temp. = Tempera- | 9 
tion of|of Soil persed | “ture. = 
Wind. | at 1 ft. | In | On 
Max. wha. | sun. | grass 
t — 
deg. 2. | deg.| In. 
N.E. | 515 | 43.5 | — 
N. 51.5 | 39.5 | 0.160 
5: S.W. 51.6 | 40.9 = 
| 53 N.W. 52.6 | 444 | — 
51, N.E. 53.8 45.0 = 
| 52. S.E. 62.9 E | 38.8 = 
56. S.E. 53.9 70.1 | 46.1 |116.0 | 43.8 = 
Means | 30.189 | 55.2 | 50.7 | 52.5 | 660 | 43.4 {109.1 | 42.2 | 0.160 
| | | I 
REMARKS. 


17th.—Warm sunny day with cold wind, cold night. 
18th.—Dnll, overcast morning. Rain began at 1.3 p.u., showers at inter- 
vals afterwards, wet night. 
19th.— Warm and fine. 
20th.—Dry fine morning, and, though occasionally overcast, generally fine 
21st.—Dark cloudy morning, fine afternoon and evening. 
22nd,—Fine throughout. 
23rd.—A fine warm day, sun getting very powerful. 
A fine sunny week, no rain except on 18th, and frequent drying winds 
—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—May 24 


Suppiy and demand about balanced. Ouat-door produce for the most. 
part is coming-in in good condition, improving under the influence of 
the present genial weather. The foreign trade has again been very 
active during the week; in addition to the articles mentioned in our lats 
notice, there are Cherries, Apricots, and Globe Artichokes. The Potato 
trade have large stocks of old Potatoes still on hand. 


FRUIT. 
s.d. is. d s.d. s. @ 
Apples............$ sieve 1 6 to3 0 | Mulberries.... -lb. 0 O0to0 oO 
Apricots -. doz. 2 0 3 0 | Nectarines doz.12 0 2% 0 
Cherries... --Ib. 2 0 5 0] Oranges 100 6 0 10 & 
Chestnuts. bushel 0 0 0 G/| Peaches doz.12 0 24 0 
i 0 0 O O)| Pears,kitchen doz. 00 00 
do 00 00 dessert.... doz. 00 Ov 
8 0 15 0} -lb. 6 0 10 0 
00 20 i oe 00 
20 26 doz. 00 00 
0s 10} Ib 00 OO 
6 0 12 Q| Strawberries frp i) i aby 
6 0 10 0| Walnuts.... 10 0 16 0 
6 0 12 0! ditto...... P10 10 20 

VEGETABLES 

s.d. 8. a s.d. 8s. d 
4 0to6 9 0 4to0 6 
40/8 if DOA Go 
2-0" 3°°0 ORs G: 
00 oO 0} 02 00 
20 80 768 10 0 
(Wety ak G 00 00 
00 00 80 60 
Io 20 ORS ees: 0: 
00 00 20 40 
OS molec 20 40 
60 10 0 830 40 
ey ey 0; Gi ae2 70: 
830 60 04 06 
OMG etG 00.600 
00 00 00 00 
2 0 O 0} Shallots 06 0% 
0 8 0 o| Spinach 2-6 £0 
08 00 00 00 
sebeS 08 00 ip 09 16 
Horseradish .... bundle 8 0 6 01! Vegetable M: 00 00 


POULTRY MARKET.—May 24. 


We haye indications of a rather better supply. We need it; the ex- 
travagant prices made by a few good young things lately, are beneficial 
to no one. 


Ph GG. eb GE 8. do ised 
Large Fowls ........ 6 Oto6 6 | Pigeons .. - 0 9too0 10 
Smaller ditto .. 5 6 6 O | Rabbits . 1) Bes: 
Chickens .... 8.40 3 6 Wild ditto . 09 0 10 
Ducklings .. SHO eS TO eiarespesce. OP UR Omen 
Goslings .. fo 6 6 Guinea Foy Sila6, Af 
Pheasants............ 0 0 QO QO | Grouse .... 0 Oe 


June 1, 1871. } 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


WEEKLY CALENDAR. 


Day | Day | Average Tempera- | Rain in | sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s | piece Day | 
oe ra ah JUNE 1—7, 1871. ture near London. is ey Rises. | Sets. | Rises. Sets. Age. | ican’ Year. | 
Day. |Night.|Mean. ee: | a ay i Ae m. h.|m. ie Days m. 8. ee 
1 | Ts | Meeting of Linnean Society, 8 p.m. 68.4 | 45.9 2 5 | 5laf3) 4af8 | 47af5 | laf3 f 2 32 | 152 
2 |F < 4 68.9 ea SOM ele a| bl =8:| 5)" 8416 wT acme) (ent 2 93 | 158 
3 |S 694 | 449/568 | 2 |50 3/ 6 8|42 8/59 8] oO Q 14 | 154 
4 | Sun | Trinity Sunpay. 69.38 | 44.4 | 56.9 15 | 50 3) 7 8|59 9/43 4 16) 3] 2 55) | 
5 |u| Meeting of Entomological Society, 7 P.M. 70.5 | 47.3 | 58.9 | 24 | 49 8/8 8] 0 11) 41 5 17 | 1 54 | 156 
6 Tu | Meeting of Zoological Society, 9 P.M. 69.9 | 47.6 | 588 | 22 | 485282109) 81) 460 1151.50) 16 18 1 43 | 157 | 
7 Ww Royal Horticultural Society, Fruit, Floral, | 69.3 | 46.5 | 57.9 26 47 3110 8 | morn.| 8 8 19 | 188) 0158) 
{ and General Meeting. | | | 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 69.4°, and its night tem- 


perature 45.9°. 
1.02 inch. 


The greatest heat was 90°, on the 5th, 1846; and the lowes: cold 33°, on the Sth, 1856. The greatest fall of rain was 


ORCHARD-HOUSE PROSPECTS. 


a sue 47 F these we may now speak confidently, and 
AN NN the number of orchard houses renders the 
a Ne subject interesting. 

The splendid sunshine of last summer, 
succeedirg a year of enforced rest, has made 
this season one of promise. Out of doors, 
however, our Peach trees present a compa- 
ratively miserable appearance, owing to the 
prevalence of curled or blistered leaves 
where no protection was employed. In the 
houses I have now most of Mr. Rivers’s new Peaches in 
good numbers, and variously placed and trained. They 
all look very well indeed. The whole crop is enormous, 
and had to be thinned several times over. ‘The leaves are 
very healthy, and there is but little aphis. 

My neighbours complain that they wear out their potted 
trees in half a dozen seasons, but here are some which, 
after ten years’ steady bearing in pots, have now been five 
years planted in the borders, and are as fine as ever. The 
secret is that they are never cropped so heavily as my 
neighbours’ trees are. Two thousand five hundred fine 
fruits are quite enough for a house 80 feet by 15, and 
two thousand would have been much better. Of these, 
one thousand eight hundred were sold in Covent Garden. 
Still, it must be allowed that it is most profitable in many 
cases to crop rather heavily year after year, and then to 
renew the trees. Could we have houses to rest them every 


third or fourth year, and stimulate them during production, | 


this would even be advisable’ where large demands were 
made on the gardener. But this rule is inapplicable to 
border trees, and these have their peculiar merits, not the 
least of which, as we all know, is being less dependent 
on capricious watering. 
abundant water imperative while the foliage is developing 
and the fruit swelling. 

My old diagonal cordons continue in good health, with 
the exception of one of them, which commenced exuding 
gum from about a foot above the collar at no perceptible 
wound. Many remedies were tried: the exudation broke 
out a little higher each time, and at last one large spur 
and the shoots on it died off. A succession of tight band- 
ages with tar between them arrested the flow, and the 
upward sap has evidently avoided this portion, but there 
is a general slight chlorotic character visible in the leaves, 
and next season will be a test for the veteran, now sixteen 
years old. I mention this, chiefly because M. Dubreuil 
considers that the life of the Peach (I presume on the 
Plum stock) is ‘valueless after twenty years.” Such 
might be the case with trees under glass, but when the 
amount of crops gathered, the locality, training, and sort 
were all considered, would this rule apply to all Peach 
trees on the wall also? At any rate, this would tend to 
prove that it is safer to have cordons which can be easily 
replaced, especially when new varieties are so continually 
appearing. 

The more we see of orchard-house work the more we 
must admire its advantages. Looking over a friend’s 

No. 531—Von. XX., NEw SERIES. 


This continuous sunshine renders | 


| house, which T designed for him two seasons ago, I found 
| there a first-rate crop of the best sorts growing in what 
was formerly a mere back yard, close to the road, and 
rather enclosed by a north wall. We had to place the 
orchard house over a Vine border, and immediately in front 
of the vinery of course’ This was done by making the 
orchard house with a short hip of a suitable height, having 
all the trees, except those in corners, in pots, and arrang- 
ing so that the gutters of the vinery could flood the Vine 
border at pleasure. This watering, however, was found 
not so necessary after all, and the Grapes have never been 
so fine before. Thus there is at present in a former back 
yard, in a narrow space between an old vinery and a north 
wall, a capital house full of the newest sorts of Peaches 
and Nectarines, producing for the owner, an invalid, a 
succession of. the best fruits in the world, refreshing and 
digestible. With the Grapes, and the Pears and Plums on 
the walls, this small garden, with its croquet lawn, and 
flowers in cases and conservatories, leaves only Apples 
and vegetables to be sought for in the markets. : 

Such are the advantages of glass, and not the least of 
them is its application to growing choice Peaches and 
Nectarines, instead of on open walls. The generality of 
suburban gardens are like the one in question, and would 
be best laid out in some such way.—T. C. Breuaur, 
Richmond House, Guernsey. 


THE ORCHARD HOUSE AND ITS COMMUNISTS. 


Tue late Bishop of Chichester, on the occasion of a 
dinner given to the Agricultural Society at Oxford, at which 
he ‘being then Vice-Chancellor) presided, in proposing the 
toast of the evening, “Success to Agriculture,’ said he 
supposed the members of the Society, on visiting so learned 
a University, would expect from him as its representative 
a speech in Latin; but that as it was possible that some of 
| them might have forgotten what they had learned at school, 
he should append to the Latin quotation he was about to 
offer a literal translation. Cicero, he said, declared, ‘“‘ Nihil 
est melius agriculturd.” Responsive to the general look 
calling for an explanation he construed it, “ Nothing is 
better than agriculture,’ which sentiment elicited loud 
cries of ‘hear, hear!” from all parts of the roo. On 
silence being restored he proceeded, “ nihil honestius,” ‘‘no- 
thing is more honourable,’ which, I need hardly say, was 
uproariously applauded; and some one delightedly ex- 
claimed, What will he say next? Why, ‘nihil uwberius,” 
to be sure, he replied, which means, ‘nothing is more pro- 
fitable.” oud cries of Bravo! followed this announce- 
ment, a jingling of glasses, varied by a growl from one 
bucolic gentleman that if Mr. What-d’ye-call-him had 
foreseen the price at which corn was then being sold he 
never would have committed himself to such an unfounded 
statement. 

Now, sir, had Cicero lived in our days he would have 
vastly delighted in orchard-house culture, and, next to agri- 
cul(ure, would have justly designated it as good, honour- 
able, and profitable. Yes, profitable, for if the produce of 
a well-managed orchard house were to be turned into hard 

No, 1183.—Vou. XLY., Oud SERIE . 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


580 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ June 1, 1871. 


cash, the receipts, after deducting incidental expenses, would 
exceed the interest of many investments which are considered 
lucrative. I grant there are drawbacks; for instance, we have 
this season had to contend with weather which, owing to the 
coldness of the nights, has been upon the whole unfavourable 
for setting ; but now that we can count the fruit likely to stand 
we may congratulate ourselves upon our prospects of a profit- 
able yield, as compared with the forlorn hopes of those who 
this year have to look for a crop upon unprotected walls. 

I still continue to be satisfied with my orchard house, though 
I must confess that this year I have had a hard entomological 
battle to fight; for first, the excessively hot weather during the 
early part of the spring brought the red spider out of his winter 
hiding place, and gave him a fair field for commencing his 
depredations at a time when, for fear of damaging the blossom, 
the syringe was scarcely available. I found even my Apricot 
trees infested with red spider, which I notice, inasmuch as Mr. 
Rivers in his valuable treatise hints that Apricot trees enjoy 
an immunity from the attacks of the pests of the orchard house. 
I found the only plan was to go over each leaf that bore marks 
of the destroyer, and rub the under surface with my finger. 
The subsequent cold weather seemed to induce honeydew, fol- 
lowed by myriads of aphides, and these (like the Paris insur- 
gents) being hard to get rid of, I had to treat to a thrice-re- 
peated dose of fumigation. Poor Paris, while abandoned to 
those Red spiders in human form, the Communists, might be 
not unfitly compared to an orchard house in the possession of 
the insect varmint I have exterminated, and it really seems 
now to be undergoing the same remedy of fumigation, involved 
as it is ‘‘in fire and vapour of smoke.” But there is this 
striking difference: The mischief wrought in Europe’s fairest 
city is irreparable; whereas if in our glass houses a tree or two 
should be destroyed by blight or mildew, your advertising 


sheets inform us of plenty of complaisant gardeners who, ata 
trifling cost, will be happy to repair all our damages. 

My trees, which are in perfect health, have a fair but not an 
abundant crop this year. I am still constantly thinning out, 
as I much prefer a comparatively few but fine fruit to bushels 
which not only fail to come to perfection, but also exhaust the 
vital energies of the tree. I have this year grown a few of the 
best Roses in pots in my orchard house, and the ladies are 
quite delighted at having in the drawing-room such early spe- 
cimens of this queen of flowers. My Vines beneath the rafters 
look most luxuriant, only I wish that they did not cause quite 
so thick a shade. AsI look up Iam reminded of what Cicero 
said of the Vine (Vitis)—‘' Quam serpentem, multiplici lapsu et 
erratico, ferro amputans, coercet ars agricolarum, ne silvescat 
sarmentis,” ‘* And this (i.¢., the Vine), as it creeps along in a 
winding and erratic course, the husbandman’s art by pruning 
restrains, lest it should run to wood.’ The above passage was 
once rendered by a Cambridge undergraduate, who, I fear, had 
omitted to prepare for lecture, in the following highly ingenious 


manner—Quam serpentem, which serpent, multiplict lapsu et 
erratico, slipping along in many a maze, ars agricolarum, the 
art of husbandmen, amputans ferro, chopping in two with his 
spade, coercet, prevents, ne silvescat sarmentis, its too many 
wrigglings. This is a fact.—A Constant Reaper. 


GREENHOUSE PLANTS.—No. 4. 


Passiflora cerulea racemosa.—Growth rather slender but very 
free, and the plant does well in a greenhouse, which is more 
than can be said of the majority of the Passifloras enumerated 
in catalogues as suitable for the temperature of such a structure. 
The flowers are reddish purple, produced in great profusion in 
May, June, and throughout the summer, followed by an egg- 
like fruit, pale yellow when ripe, and of the size of a bantam’s 
ege. 
Passiflora Comte Nesselrode.—Of stronger habit than the 
preceding, foliage slightly larger, and of a much deeper green, 
flowers reddish, green, and purple. It is one of the most 
desirable varieties, succeeding well in a greenhouse. 

Passiflora Impératrice Eugénie, with red, white, and blue 
flowers, is also free in growth, and is suitable for a greenhouse. 

Passiflora Countess Giuglini has fine large white and blue 
flowers, and is one of the finest of the Passion-flowers, but in 
& greenhouse it requires time; indeed, according to my expe- 
rience, though many of the Passifloras succeed after some 
time tolerably well in a greenhouse, yet from the late growths 
that are made, and the consequent imperfect ripening of the 
wood, they are there precarious subjects. They do best in a 


Bove or a warm greenhouse, neither of which I shall take into 


consideration in these papers, confining myself strictly to 
greenhouse plants. 

The Passifloras thrive in a compost of two parts light fibrous 
loam, one part sandy peat, and one part leaf soil, with a free 
admixture of sharp sand. The best mode of training is, per- 
haps, to allow one shoot or rod to each wire, to permit it to 
grow to the extent required without stopping, and the side 
shoots to grow at will; as they do so in a hanging or drooping 
manner, the effect when in flower is very pleasing. In autumn 
the side shoots should be cut back to about a foot in length, 
and in spring, when they begin to grow, cut them back to 
within an inch of the rod or shoot whence they proceed. It may 
be necessary for a year or two, at the spring pruning, to shorten 
the principal shoots to the firm or ripe wood, as their points, 
from being made late in summer, are not ripened, and they not 
unfrequently die back in winter. Another shoot as leader will, 
of course, need to be trained in their place. The shoots I 
allow to grow at will, only if they do not show flowers at a foot 
or 18 inches in length, I take out their points. Beyond the 
shortening of the shoots in autumn, essential to afford light to 
the plants beneath, and the spurring-in during February, no 
other pruning is given. When any of the rods become worn 
out they may be cut clean out, and in their places other shoots 
trained from the base. From October to March they require 
to be kept rather dry at the roots, and throughout the summer 
abundant supplies of water are required, affording top-dressings 
of rich compost, or about an inch of short manure in May, and 
again about the middle of June. 

Tacsonia mollissima.—F lowers bright shaded pink or rose; 
very free in growth, foliage bright green, and covered with 
white down. The flowers, though not equal to those of T. 
Van-Volxemi either in size or brilliancy, are, nevertheless, 
very fine. The plant is of remarkably rapid growth. I 
planted one out last year, and it has grown up a 20-feet and 
down a 10-feet length of rafter, occupying five wires on two 
rafters, and the side shoots hang down from the rafter 6 feet, 
many much more, and at the time I write (the beginning of 
May) they are showing flowers at every joint. It usually flowers 
at the close of May and throughout the summer, and it is the 
very best of climbers for covering a large extent of roof. 

Tacsonia Van-Volxemi.—F lowers crimson, very fine; foliage 
light green, not downy; in habit more slender than T. mollis- 
sima, but quite as free in growth, yet it takes more time to 
establish itself. It flowers almost continuously, but it is 
well to keep it dry in winter, so as to induce rest. 

The Tacsonias should not have the shoots very much crowded, 
but these may be allowed to hang down if they are likely to 
become too numerous and crowded on the wires, and in the 
hottest part of summer they may be taken to the rafter adjoin- 
ing, making the shoots from the other rafter meet them, and 
thus festooned they afford not only an agreeable shade but a 
fine effect. In autumn the shoots should be cut back, confin- 
ing them to the rafters, and in February all the old shoots, 
except the main shoot or rod on each rafter, should be cut out, 
allowing, however, an inch at their base to remain, but leave 
entire any young shoots at that time not more than from 1 foot 
to 18 inches in length proceeding from the main shoot or rods, 
and they will show signs of flowering almost immediately. 

‘Water must be copiously supplied in summer, with the top- 
dressing recommended for the Passifloras, and in winter give 
none, except a little to keep the foliage from flagging. The 
compost recommended for Passifloras suits the Tacsonias. 

Both the Tacsonias mentioned produce fruit plentifully, in 
size and form like a hen’s egg; that of T. mollissima is said to 
be eatable. A dish of the fruit, however well set up, has too 
much the appearance of a dish of eggs, and as to flavour I 
doubt it would not please the English taste. 

The foregoing are all the climbing plants which I can recom- 
mend for extensive roof-covering. Many hardy climbers, as 
Clematises, &c., fine as they are under glass, and half-hardy 
climbers such as Cobexa, Mutisia, &c., are also omitted, for the 
simple reason that they are not greenhouse plants. Some of 
them are not presentable in winter, whilst others, if too hot 
and dry in summer, fall a prey to insect pests, and are, in my 
opinion, undesirable. 

CLIMBERS SUITABLE FOR SHORT ROOFS OR RAFTERS. 

(10 to 12 feet.) 

Dolichos lignosus.—This is a twining plant, evergreen, with 
pea-shaped flowers, purplish red. It requires to have the 
shoots well thinned out in summer after flowering, remoying 
the old and weak growths. Watershould be abundantly given, 
with occasional supplies of liquid manure. Soil two parts 


June 1, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


381 


fibrous loam and one part leaf soil; good drainage, and fre- 
quent syringing in summer so as to keep down red spider. In 
winter keep the plant rather dry, but not too much so, other- 
wise the aftergrowth will be enfeebled. 

Hibbertia volubilis—Evyergreen twiner. Flowers yellow, 
early in summer, and indeed very continuously produced. It 
requires no pruning except thinning out the old shoots, and 
will succeed well in a compost of two parts sandy loam and one 
part sandy peat. Water freely when growing, and in winter 
afford only enough to keep the plant from flagging. 

Hibbertia grossularicfolia.—Very similar to the preceding, 
having yellow flowers, and being very free in growth. 

Jasminum gracile.—Evergreen. Flowers white and sweet- 
scented. Soil two parts fibrous loam, and a part each of leaf 
soil and sandy peat. It requires free watering in summer, and 
to be kept rather dry in winter. It flowers early in summer, 
after which the flower-stalks should be cut off, and the old 
wood thinned out or cut back, encouraging growth by frequent 
sprinklings overhead. 

Jasminum azoricum, also with white flowers in summer, and 
J. grandijlorum are the best, the latter being in my opinion the 
finest of all the Jasmines. It requires to be cut-in rather 
severely, and is then free both in growth and flowering. It is 
best to cut it back after flowering, keeping it rather dry in 
winter. 

Kennedya bimaculata variegata.—Eyergreen, with some of 
the leaves marked with white and pink; flowers deep purple, 
produced abundantly in April. 

_ Kennedya cozcinea major.—F lowers scarlet. May and June. 

Kennedya Marryatite.—F lowers scarlet, large and fine. Fo- 
liage large, covered with small white hairs, giving a downy 
appearance. April. 

Kennedya Comptoniana.—Flowers blue. April. 

Kennedya monophylla.—Flowers purple. May and June. 

Kennedya rubicunda superba.—Flowers red. May and June. 
Free in growth. 

The Kennedyas are all very free-flowering evergreen twiners. 
They succeed in a compost of two parts fibrous loam, two parts 
sandy peat, and half a part each of charcoal in pieces from the 
size of a pea to that of a walnut, silver sand, and leaf soil, or 
old cow dung. Good drainage is necessary, with free watering 
while growing and flowering, whilst in winter they are best 
‘kept rather dry. Cut back the old parts rather freely atter 
flowering, thinning them well out, and encourage free growth by 
copious waterings and syringings. 

Rhynchospermum jasminoides—Hyvergreen. Flowers white 
and sweet-scented, produced in Juneand July. It requires a 
compost of equal parts of sandy lozm and peat, and one part 
of leaf soil. Water the plant freely when it is growing, but 
keep it moister in winter than is sufficient to preserve the 
freshness of the foliage. Pruning should be confined to thin- 
ning out the shoots when they become too much crowded. The 


variety with variegated foliage is pretty. Afford good drainage. 
Solanum jasminiflorum.—Evergreen ; flowers white, very 
pretty, produced throughout the summer. Water it freely when 


growing, keeping it rather dry in winter. It requires good 
drainage, with a compost of equal parts of sandy loam and leaf 
soil, and a fourth part of sand. Cut away the old shoots as 
they become lank and bare, encouraging fresh from the base. 
S. jasminoides has pale purple flowers. 

Sollya linearis—An evergreen, very pretty, blue-flowering 
climber. : 

Sollya heterophylla.—With larger foliage, and fine blue 
flowers. 

Both of these Sollyas flower in summer, when they should 
be well supplied with water, and free growth encouraged by 
frequent syringings. In winter keep them rather dry. Thin- 
ning out the shoots is the only pruning required. For soil use 
equal parts of fibrous loam and sandy peat with good drainage. 

Tropaolum Triomphe de Gand.—Flowers orange scarlet. Of 
straggling growth, but desirable as a free continuous bloomer. 
Soil sandy loam two parts, one part each sandy peat and leaf 
soil, with a free admixture of sharp sand, and good drainage. 
Water moderately, especially in winter, and when growing and 
flowering freely water only when the soil is dry, and then afford 
a good supply. The main point is to keep training from the 
base fresh shoots to replace those which are old, for these when 
exhausted should be cut away. 

All the above succeed either planted out or grown in pots, 
but I would prefer planting out in borders, for they are then 
not so liable to suffer from neglect of watering; besides, they 
grow more freely, and are in every way better. 


If grown in pots they will require to be shifted from the 
small pots in which they are received, and until they require a 
9-inch pot they may have a shift when they are beginning to 
grow, and again in July, the object being to bring them into a 
flowering state as soon as possible. From a 9-inch pot they 
may be transferred to an 11-inch pot, and this will serve any of 
the plants named in this section for two years, the surface 
soil being removed and top-dressings of fresh compost given as 
required. Subsequently they will need repotting every year, 
or, with the top-dressings, every alternate year, and in the case 
of those flowering in summer the potting should take place 
before the plants begin to grow in spring, whilst those which 
flower in spring will be left until the floweringis past. By the 
spring-flowering climbers I mean those which flower from 
February to June. In repotting, the ball should be reduced as 
much as it can be, taking care, however, to preserve aS many 
roots as possible, and very frequently the plants may be re- 
turned to the same size of pot as that in which they previously 
were. In the case of the ball being too large to go into the 
same size of pot without admitting of at least an inch of soil 
all round, there is no alternative but to use a larger size of pot. 
In all cases the watering after repotting should be moderate 
for a time until the roots are growing freely in the fresh soil, 
and then the supply should be liberal. The drainage must be 
good. To preserve the foliage in good health frequent syring- 
ings will be beneficial whilst the plants are growing, and oc- 
casionally liquid manure when they are in a growing state, or 
advancing for flowering, always making sure that the pots are 
Sra roots before resorting to waterings with liquid manure. 
—G,. ABBEY. 


DAMSONS. 


I am accused by ‘‘Inqurrer”’ of calling the Prune Damgon 
oval, small, and much esteemed in the north; Cluster Damson 
good and fertile, &e. I leave the quotation as itis, page 365. 
The paragraph descriptive of the Prune Damson was written 
many years since when on a visit to my old friend Mr. John 
Pearson, with whom I used to argue on the superiority of our 
Hertfordshire Damsons, which I then thought larger and better 
than the Prune Damson. Since its cultivation here I have 
given it a preference on account of its being larger than in the 
north and of fine flavour, and I think I have more than once 
owned this to friend Pearson ; but the paragraph has remained 
as it was written years ago because itis so true, and there it 
shall remain. 

As to the merits of the Cluster Damson I have said nothing 
to disparage it, and so ‘‘ Inquiren’s’’ friends need not be pro- 
voked because they have spent, say, £5 or more on trees of 
Cluster Damsons. They may rest assured that all I have said 
about it is true, and I have not ‘ written up another.” 

Ihave written about fruits for forty years, and. feel great 
pleasure in having been as changeable as the wind; for if a 
variety of any kind of fruit after giving good promise has de- 
clined in flavour after being acclimatised, I have honestly told 
the truth. Dr. Hogg is the only authority to ‘‘ give some ex- 
planation” of my changes of opinion, for he has all my cata- 
logues and all my writings. I never stop to consider what I 
have written, but write my impressions while they are warm. 
Mr. Robson gave a challenge as to the productive qualities of 
the Cluster Damson, which I thought fit to take up. Its fer- 
tility is remarkable, and it will sell as well in the market as 
the Prune Damson, at least in London, but it is not so large as 
our Hertfordshire Damson, which has been on my estate for at 
least 130 years.—T Hos. RivERs. 


EUCHARIS AMAZONICA CULTURE. 


Havine this year had better success than usual in flowering 
the Eucharis amazonica, I send you a detail of my mode of 
treatment. 

Early last December I shook out four bulbs, washed their 
roots, and repotted them in an 11-inch pot, using a compost of 
one-half turfy loam and one-half well-rotted cow dung. I then 
put them in a warm stove. They lost some of their leaves, 
but soon recovered, and grew luxuriantly. At the beginning of 
March two of the bulbs threw up strong flower spikes, each 
bearing five or six blooms. The largest flower measured 
44 inches in diameter, and the leaves were 15 inches long by 
8 inches wide. After flowering I put the plant back in the 
stove, and all four bulbs have now thrown up strong flower 
spikes, and have six flowers fully open and seventeen in various 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


{ June 1, 1871. 


stages. The flowers are quite 4 inches in diameter. Some 
weaker bulbs, potted at the same time in the same compost, 
are now throwing up strong spikes, and one in a small pot is 
just past its best. 

I attribute the free growth and flowering entirely to the rich 
compost, as in other seasons I have only managed to flower a few 
bulbs, and never more than once a-year.—J. W. Davis, Hazel- 
wood, Upper Norwood. 


HARDINESS OF DR. HOGG STRAWBERRY— 
STRAWBERRY CULTURE. 


I necervyep this variety from Mr. Turner, of Slough, as soon 
as it was in commerce; it has been grown out of doors every 
winter since that time, and I have not observed a single plant 
of it injured by frost. During hot dry weather in summer this 
variety is more liable to die off than some of the others. Atten- 
tion to watering the plants when they require it will prevent 
this to a large extent. It requires good cultivation, and should 
be replanted every second year. 

My method of cultivating Strawberries out of doors is this: 
Early in July I layer in 3-inch pots as many runners as are 
required, and as soon as they are well rooted I plant them out 
2 feet apart in deeply trenched and highly-manured ground, 
and the best Strawberries will be obtained in the following 
year. lJLast season was a trying one for Strawberries owing to 
the excessive drought, and yet a bed planted at this place from 
the previous year’s runners, and containing upwards of a dozen 
sorts, is now a perfect sheet of flowers. Not a plant has died 
from frost, and only one variety suffered—a new one received 
last year from Paris, and named Alexander II. The plants of 
this were much injured, but are now recovering. Sir Charles 
Napier is also somewhat tender, and too acid for dessert. La 
Constante is likewise a little deficient in flavour. President 
Wilder, raised from it, is much superior in this respect. Lucas, 
both for pots and out-of-doors culture, is a remarkably fine 
variety. If your correspondent who inquires has not already 
procured them, let him add fhe following to his collection :— 
President, Lucas, and Mr. Radclyfie—this variety cannot be 
distinguished from British Queen, but as itis a seedling it may 
succeed where that variety fails. It does well here both in pots 
and planted out. Frogmore Late Pine is the best late sort, 
and is also a good Strawberry for pot culture. All these com- 
bine high flayour with hardiness.—J. Douauas. 


ROYAL BOTANIC SOCIETY’S SHOW. 


May 257TH anp 26TH. 


Tur May Show of this Society was held on Thursday and Friday 
last, and notwithstanding the counter-attraction cf Epsom, the weather 
being extremely warm, and on the whole very favourable for an out- 
door exhibition, there was a good attendance of visitors. Following 
so closely as it did on the shows at Kensington and the Crystal Palace, 
a large proportion of the plants exhibited had previously figured 
before the public, and if they were not so numerous as we have seen 
in some former years, they were admirably arranged, forming in the 
great tent one of those beautiful scenes which one always looks for at 
the Regent’s Park. The introduction of a neat fountain playing in 
the centre gave, besides, a welcome air of coolness while there was a 
burning sun outside. 

The large specimen Stove and Greenhouse Plants were, with few 
exceptions, the same as those shown at the Crystal Palace. Mr. Ward, 
gardener to F. G. Wilkins, Esq., Leyton, took the lead for nine with 
Phcenocoma prolifera Barnesii, Tetratheca ericefolia, Statice profusa, 
and others noticed last week, large and in beautiful condition. Next 
came Mr. Chapman, gardener to J. Spode, Esq., Hawkesyard Park, 
Rugeley, and third, Mr. J. Wheeler, gardener to J. Phillpott, Esq., 
Stamford Hill. For six plants the prizes went to Mr. Wright, gar- 
dener to H. Compton Roberts, Esq.; Mr. J. Wheeler; Mr. Carr, 
gardener to P. L. Hinds, Esq., Byfleet Lodge; and Mr. G. Wheeler, 
gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart., M.P., Regent’s Park. In these 
collections we noticed good specimens of Boronia pinnata, Chorozema 
cordatum splendens, Stephanotis, Aphelexis, Eriostemon buxifolium, 
and Dracophyllum gracile. In the nurserymen’s sixes equal first 
prizes were awarded to Mr. Williams, of Holloway, and Messrs. Jack- 
son, of Kingston. Anthurium Scherzerianum from the former was 
very effective. Groups of twenty in 8-inch pots consisted of small 
plants, and were ineffective. Messrs. Jackson and Messrs. Rollisson 
were the successful exhibitors, the latter also being second for the best 
group arranged for effect, Messrs. A. Henderson & Co., of Pine Apple 
Place, being first with a collection tastefully set up. 

In Heaths, Mr. Ward was first with an excellently-bloomed, very 
evenly grown collection, the other prizetakers being Messrs. Jackson 
and Son and Mr. J. Wheeler. 


In Pelargoniums Mr. Ward likewise carried off the chief honours 
for nine; his splendid specimen of Rose Celestial was apparently as 
fresh and beautiful, certainly as full of flower, as it was a fortnight 
previously. Mr, Weir, gardener to Mrs. Hodgson, and Mr. James, 
Isleworth, took the second and third prizes. In the nurserymen’s 
class for nine Messrs. Dobson were first with well-bloomed plants ; 
and in that for twenty of distinct varieties the best collection came 
from Mr. Turner, of Slough. Most noteworthy among his varieties 
were Troubadour, Gratulation, Hermit, Corsair, Favourite, Claribel, 
and John Hoyle. 

Azaleas were in several instances better than at previous shows. 
For large specimens the prizes went to Mr. G. Wheeler, gardener to 
Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart,, Mr. Chapman, and Mr. J. Wheeler among 
amateurs ; and in the nurserymen’s class Mr. Turner, Mr. Williams, 
and Messrs. Jackson & Son were the successful competitors. The 
former had, with but one exception, the bush-headed dwarf standards 
which he showed at Kensington a year ago, with heads forming a dense 
mass of bloom. For twelve in 12-inch pots Mr. Little, gardener to 
J. Goddard, Esq., Roydon Lodge, was deservedly first with compact 
little pyramids beautifully grown and flowered. There was also a 
class for three Azaleas grown without stakes or other artificial sup- 
port. In this Mr. Turner was first with three bush-headed specimens 
of Coccinea major, Cedo Nulli, and Marie Vervaene. These were 
beautiful masses of bloom, the first in particular had a splendid head 
of glowing scarlet flowers. Mr. Little was second. 

Of Rhododendrons in 12-inch pots Messrs. Lane, of Great Berk- 
hampstead, were the only exhibitors, and they had a first prize for 
plants in profuse bloom for their size. 


Roses as shown by Mr. Turner and Messrs. Paul & Son comprised 
specimens which have never been surpassed and rarely equalled. 
Charles Lawson, Juno, Souvenir d'un Ami, Duchesse de Caylus, Miss 
Ingram, Marie Baumann, Victor Verdier, Dombrowski, and Madame 
Victor Verdier were the varieties shown by Mr. Turner. In Messrs. 
Paul & Son’s collection Charles Lawson, Victor Verdier, Alfred 


| Colomb, and Anna Alexieff were conspicuous by their excellence. Mr. 


W. Paul and Messrs. Paul & Son exhibited boxes of fine cut blooms. 
Maréchal Niel from the latter was remarkably fine. The Roses shown 
in the amateurs’ class were much better than usual. Mr. Terry, gar- 
dener to A. G. Puller, Esq., had excellent specimens of Charles Law- 
son, Baronne Prévost, and Gloire de Dijon, though the foliage was 
not of that healthy deep green which we find almost invariably in Mr. 
Turner’s specimens. Mr. Goddard, who was second, had large plants 
of Souvenir d’un Ami, Madame de Cambacérés, and others of less 
size, but well bloomed. Messrs. Paul & Son had in the miscellaneous 
class fine specimens of Mdlle. Thérése Levet, Souvenir d’un Ami, 
Madame Willermoz, and some others. . 

Orchids comprised good examples of Odontoglossums Bluntii and 
Phalenopsis, Oncidium bifolium and Lanceanum; Cypripediums, 
Cattleya Mossie, Lelia purpurata, Saccolabiums, Aérides, Phale- 
nopsis Liiddemanniana, and among others from Mr. Bull was Cypri- 
pedium niveum with six flowers. A much finer specimen of this was 
figured and described in pages 338 and 339. The prizes for nine went 
to Messrs. Ward, Burnett, Bull, and Wright; for six, to Mr. Williams 
and Mr. Bull among nurserymen; and to Mr. Hill, gardener to R. Han- 
bury, Esq., The Poles, Ware, Mr. Godfrey, gardener to J. Anderson, 
Esq., Staines, and Mr. J. Wheeler among amateurs. 

Among Exotic Ferns, very good plants of Alsophila excelsa, Lomaria 
gibba, Cibotium Schiedei, Gleichenia flabellata and spelunce, and 
Adiantum teneram were shown by Mr. Wright, Mr. Carr, Mr. G. 
Wheeler, Mr. Pearce, and Mr. Hill in the amateurs’ class, and by Mr. 
Williams in that for nurserymen. The best pair of tree Ferns came 
from Mr. G. Wheeler; Mr. Cole, gardener to S. Budgett, Esq., Ealing 
Park, being'second with two beautiful specimens of Lomaria gibba, 
the very picture of health. 

Prizes were also offered for collections of twenty-four hardy herba- 
ceous plants belonging to not less than six genera. By far the best 
collection came from Mr. R. Parker, of Tooting, who had beautifully- 
flowered Pyrethrums of several varieties; Iberis contracta, a fine 
white Candytuft; Veronica urticewfolia, blue; Alyssum saxatile com- 
pactum, a close mass of golden flowers ; Ponies, and other plants. 
A third prize was given to Mr. Ware, of Tottenham, the second being 
withheld. 

For herbaceous Calceolarias in pots not larger than 8 inches Mr. 
James was first with plants in remarkably fine bloom. Mr. Goddard, 
gardener to H. Little, Esq., Twickenham, would have come second 
but for the fact of one of his plants being in a pot larger than the 
regulation size, for which oversight he was very properly disqualified, 
receiying, however, an extra prize, the second being withheld, and the 
third going to Messrs. Dobson, of Isleworth. 

Of miscellaneous subjects not already noticed, Mr. Turner sent fine 
examples of Lilium auratum, also Tricolor Pelargoniums; Messrs. 
Lane, Rhododendrons and Azaleas; Mr. William Paul, of Waltham 
Cross, variegated Pelargoniums and his new Rose Princess Beatrice ; 
Mr. Needle, gardener to the Comte de Paris, a collection of Orchis 
and Ophrys; Mr. Ware, hardy herbaceous plants with ornamental 
foliage; and Miss Squires, York Gate, Regent's Park, a very well- 
grown plant of Adiantum cuneatum. ‘ 7 

Of new and rare plants numerous collections were exhibited by 
Messrs. Veitch, and Mr. Bull. Messrs. Veitch had botanical certi- 
ficates of merit for Dracena porphyrophylla, Dracena Mooreana, 


ete 


June 1, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


383 


Dracena magnifica, Croton Johannis, Agave festiva, Agave horrida 
hystrix, Agave Regelii, Agave Besseriana candida, Agave Kerchovia 
macrodonta, Agave Roezliana, Fremontia californica, with large 
yellow flowers, which were first produced, we believe, at Messrs. Veitch’s 
nursery in 1865; and for Dioscorea retusa, with a greenish, catkin- 
like, agreeably-fragrant inflorescence, anda neat plant for a pot trellis. 
Like awards were made to Mr. Bull, for Cypripedium niveum, Primula 
japonica, Primula japonica splendida, Primula japonica lilacina, 
Primula japonica carminata, Primula japonica alba, Anthurium 
Scherzerianum Dixoni, Malortia simplex, Demonorops cinnamomea, 
Hydrangea stellata prolifera, Hippeastrum pyrochroa, Elaphoglossum 
Herminieri, and Arenga Bonnetii. Also to Mr. William Thompson, 
of Ipswich, for Collinsia violacea; to Messrs. A. Henderson & Co., 
for Phyllanthus mimoszfolia; to Mr. B.S. Williams, for Adiantum 
Capillus-Veneris crispulum, Caryota truncata, and Draciena Liervallii ; 
and to Messrs. E. G. Ifenderson & Son for Thalictrum adiantifolium, 
the foliage of which is beautifully divided. Mr. Nye, gardener to E. 
Foster, Esq., Clewer Manor, who exhibited a collection of fine seedling 
arge-flowered Pelargoniums, had floricultural certificates for Conquest, 
Cesar, and Blue Bell; Mr. Turner, for Silver Tricolor Mrs. Rousby ; 
and Mr. W. Paul, for Virgin Queen, white-flowered. 

The Rhododendrons and other American plants of Messrs. John 
Waterer & Son, gave promise in another week of affording a fine dis- 
play; at the time of the Show, however, but few of the flowers had 
advanced beyond the half-expanded bud state. 


SOME VINE COMPLAINTS AND THEIR 
REMEDIES. 


We this season lost a valued Dutch Hamburgh Vine which 
hhad been grafted on a Chasselas Musqué, and which produced 
fine bunches and berries. We could assign no cause, except the 
gnawing of the stem all round, and pretty deeply at the surface 
of the ground, by mice and rats. We rather think that the death 
of some of the Vines referred to by correspondents, may be owing 
to a similar cause. Washing the Vines with strong mixtures 
at all hot, or even after these have been boiled together, is 
often dangerous. We seldom have had Vine stems touched 
that were planted inside the house, a plan we would practise 
wherever we could, as the Vine stems are safer in every way. 
As respects washes for dormant Vines, or comparatively so, we 
revert more and more to simple applications. Warm water as 
& wash is still one of the best and safest insect-killers. If the 
object of the smearing be to seal up any eggs of insects that 
may be present, we question very much if any composition 
whatever is better than thinnish clay paint. If made with soft- 
soap water, say 2 ozs. of soap to a gallon of paint, the paint 
will go on more easily and crack less. 

Three things we have been requested to notice as respects 
Vines. ‘A.’ ig alarmed because there are little white beady 
4ots like heads of pins along the shoots of his young Vines. 
He may rather rejoice. Such appearances are the signs of 
healthy vigour, and as the growth becomes less luxuriant, and 
the wood attains more firmness of texture, they will all dis- 
appear, and leave little or no trace behind them. Many of the 
shoots in our orchard house are beaded thus all over, though 
from first to last they have had little soil to grow in, but they 
receive several rich waterings during the season, besides what 
escapes from Strawberry pots set along the front. 

‘ B.” finds that every morning the sharp points of his Vine 
leaves, in a house to which hardly any heat is given, are loaded 
with dew drops, and he is afraid of scalding. This is also a 
ign of health and vigour, as no diseased or unhealthy leaf 
will condense the vapour around it as a healthy leaf will. In 
some of these warm mornings it is quite delightful to notice 
the edges and points of Cauliflower and Strawberry leaves 
doaded with dew points. Such appearances on the Vine leaves 
show also that there is a good deal of atmospheric vapour in 
the house. The colder the points of the leaves become, the 
more thoroughly will they act. as condensers of the vapour. 
An extreme of cold would lead to the formation of ice drops. 
More heat with less moisture in the house would so far prevent 
the leaves acting so freely as condensers. There is no danger 
of scalding provided air is given sufficiently early to prevent 
the sun acting on a confined atmosphere, and if, in addition, 
in a cold morning a little artificial heat is given along with the 
air, go that the leaves become dry before the sun shines strongly 
on the house. The mere dewing of the foliage is a thing to be 
glad of in general circumstances. Of course there may be 
Special exceptions, such as Strawberry plants grown in pits, 
where, if even air were not given during the night, and a 
dittle more heat maintained, the dewing would be so excessive 
on the foliage as to tend to damp the fruit too much, or, even 
£log the blossoms. Before the bloom opened it was all desir- 


able enough. In larger houses, and the leaves farther from the 
glass, there would be less of this heavy dewing. 

Lastly, ‘‘ C.” is alarmed because in one of his houses where 
he is forcing, the Vine stems are throwing out threads with 
whitish points like roots, and some advise removing them, and 
scme encouraging them, and he wants to know the reason of 
their growth, as they never appear in a late greenhouse vinery 
where the Vines break naturally. The Vine is naturally a 
climbing plant. It is not desirable that it should be so in cul- 
tivation. The presence of these air-roots always proves one of 
two things, generally both—viz., a goodly amount of atmo- 
spheric moisture in the house, which entices the roots to pro- 
trude, and, again, a want of free reciprocal action from the 
roots in the soil. Less use of evaporating-pans, more air, and 
more free root-action would reduce these roots from the stem 
to a minimum. Our impression is, that the more they are 
encouraged the less will the roots grow and take up from the 
soil. To prevent anything like sudden checks, the removal of 
the aérial roots should be effected gradually—not all at once. 
We have seen pots of soil and balls of moss suspended beneath 
them, so as to give additional strength to certain branches and 
parts, but we can hardly say the results were ever very as- 
tonishing. It takes a considerable time before aérial roots pro- _ 
duce fibres. The more vapour from eyaporating-pans, &e., the 
more freely will they grow. Like our correspondent, we rarely 
see them in late houses. We have no recollection of seeing 
any in an unheated orchard house. In such cases there is 
generally more air with less atmospheric moisture, and less dif- 
ference as respects the temperature of the roots and branches, 
than is often found in early-forced vineries. Our opinion, 
then, is, that in early houses such roots in moderation need 
give no alarm, but, on the whole, we would rather not see them, 
and to encourage the proper roots we would remove the aérial 
roots from each Vine gradually.—R. F. 


RABBITS versus CUPRESSUS LAWSONIANA, 
AND ABOUT OTHER CONIFERS, &c. 


IT am sorry I cannot endorse what Mr. Abbey has stated re- 
specting this tree, for here we find the rabbits injure it much, 
although not nearly to the extent that they do other Conifers. 
Out of three or four score trees from 4 to 12 feet high I can 
only find three or four which have been left untouched ; some 
of them have been completely cleared of their branches for a 
foot from the ground. To say whether it is done for food I 
cannot, but I often find much of the spray on the ground. It 
has surprised me to see the size of the branches which these 
little fellows will nibble off, often the size of one’s finger. The 
height, too, at which they will manage to bite off the branch 
or the centre of a tree without the aid of snow is remarkable. 
I have just measured some branches from 2 feet 6 inches to 3 feet 
from the ground, cut off in a manner that would vie with the 
operation performed with a sharp knife. I cannot account for 
the rabbits not eating Mr. Abbey’s Cupressus Lawsoniana, but 
it is an addition to our knowledge of the queer propensities of 
‘bunny ;”’ for how often do we see a few trees of the same 
sort near each other, one will be eaten bare and another not 
touched; but let a rabbit nibble off a bit and leave it on the 
ground, or perform a little in the way of examining the roots, 
and every one which comes that way will follow in his wake 
until there is nothing left, or the tree is laid prostrate on the 
ground. 

Another strange propensity of the rabbit is to attack a newly 
planted tree with greater relish than one which is established, 
although the established tree might be one of its favourites ; 
hence the necessity of protecting, at least for a year or two. 
Still, I know not which is the more displeasing to the eye— 
trees deprived of their under branches (which in the course of 
a few years, as the upper branches weigh down, will leave 
nothing wanting if the tree is of a spreading habit), or to have 
them surrounded with a variety of contrivances to protect them 
from vermin, but also hiding them from the eye that they were 
put there to beadmired by. This renders trees useless for orna- 
ment. It would be considered folly for a painter to take great 
pains in producing a good picture and then to have it framed 
with larch poles. The eye of the spectator would be drawn 
first to the frame; should he be induced to look into the picture 
to detect its merits he would immediately exclaim, ‘‘ How ab- 
surd it was to use such a frame!” It is just the same to plant 
a handsome tree and barricade it with things so unsightly 
in their appearance ; to do so may be excusable in the case of 
a fruit tree, because the mind would conceive that the object 


B84 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 1, 1872. 


was not beauty but utility. We seldom see fruit trees sur- 
rounded by guards if they are liable to be attacked by rabbits, 
for the guard is put round the boundaries. Why not do the 
same with ornamental grounds? for I am certainly one of those 
who think there are very few subjects not liable to be attacked 
either by rabbits’ mouths or feet. Once a good wire fence is 
put up, give the gardeners permission to keep them down; few 
will be left to do any harm. Of course I am now referring to 
pleasure grounds and the like. 

Not less objectionable are the many large stakes we too often 
see, many of which are larger than the tree they are intended 
to support; and some persons are not contented with one, but 
must have two, frequently not required, and oftener counter- 
balancing the good they do by their evil in rubbing against the 
bark—the least friction means death to the branch of a Conifer. 
Many are the specimens spoiled by it, and quite as many have 
had their heads blown off in consequence of the cord not having 
been loosened in time; it also takes away the idea of the tree 
being a native plant, which I think all trees should appear to 
be. All plants should be self-supported, and if planted pro- 
perly when young will be so more frequently than many sup- 
pose. If it is necessary to have support the most convenient 
way is to have a collar round the tree with three pieces of wire 
attached to it, and fastened to pegs placed in different directions 
in the ground. This method is to be recommended as much 
for its neat appearance as for the welfare of the tree. It pre- 
vents much friction, consequently there are no dead branches, 
I have often thought that a collar similar to that used for dogs 
would be a great convenience, so as to enable a person to draw 
it in or let it out at will. Iimagine that a steel band inlaid 
with an elastic substance such as gutta percha would answer 
well. Cannot some person invent such a thing? 

I will just note in addition to what I have said as to rabbits 
attacking one tree and leaving another of the same variety, 
that the same occurs with different species of the same genus 
—for instance, the Thujopsis. I never found them touching 
T. borealis, even during the last severe winter, and that, too, 
where newly planted out ina wood. On the other hand, Thu- 
jopsis dolabrata cannot be left without protection. I find that 
rabbits clear all the Thujas and Biotas ; indeed these two classes 
seem to be their titbits, with the exception of Thuja gigantea. 
We have several dozens of this planted out in all sorts of 
situations, but I never find one touched. I noticed with regret 
how fond rabbits are of the Irish Juniper (Juniperus hibernica), 
they have cleared dozens for us, whilst on the other hand they 
scarcely touch the Swedish Juniper (J. suecica). I could enu- 
merate others, but those named are most permanent in my 
mind at present. 


With the name of the best of all rabbit-proof trees unfortu- | 
nately I cannot furnish you, but I think it isa Cupressus. I | 


have sent to many, but they all furnish me, to my knowledge, 
with the wrong name; indeed several nurserymen who have 
been this way are equally ignorant. I have enclosed a sprig 
for your opinion. [Itis Retinospora pisifera beyond a doubt. 
—Eps.} It is a remarkably fast-growing handsome tree, which 
the rabbits never touch. We have here many dozens of them 
planted out in all situations and soils, but a dry bog suits them 
best. The tree throws out its branches horizontally; the 
young growth is pendulous, and straightens out with maturity. 
It is of very bushy growth, being almost as broad as it is 
high, much the same in form as a Cedar or a Cupressus macro- 
carpa, which we do not find eaten by the rabbits. The foliage 
is rather lighter than that of the American Arbor-Vitz, but it 
does not turn off so brown in winter. It is remarkably hardy, 
and strikes easily by cuttings. It is altogether a first-rate 
Conifer, and ought to be in every collection. 

The difficulty in ascertaining the name of this plant brings 
So my mind how little is known by gardeners and even nur- 
serymen of Conifers, beyond a few of the most popular Piceas, 
Pinuses, and Cupressuses. If we find a person who can recog- 
nise seven or eight he is ‘‘ wellup.” I had occasion to send 
for a couple of dozen of Pinuses, &c., toa large nurseryman 
this last season. The answer was for several of them, ‘‘ We are 
quite sold out ;” indeed, of some I sent for they knew nothing, 
and others were really not fit to be sent anywhere but to 
the rubbish heap, being more dead than alive. As to roots, 
after the amputation they received from the spade there were 
very few left. With regard to the frequent transplantation 
which we see stated in the catalogues, I fear it is oftener said 
than done, at least except in the case of the few popular species 
mentioned aboye. Reform is urgently wanted. 

I have been thinking yery much lately about tubs, or rather 


wooden baskets, which were in yogue some years ago. It is 
much the safest plan to have trees in them, but they appear to 
be dispensed with, as I am informed, for two reasons. First, 
purchasers are not willing to pay the extra carriage, but this 
drawback is well compensated by safety in removal and the 
little check experienced ; and if the tree is to be planted in an 
unfayourable situation the loss of two or three years’ growth 
is prevented, if not the life of the treesaved. The second reason 
was that the iron hoops around them are considered by some 
to be very detrimental to the trees. My informant quoted as 
an instance some of the Araucarias planted at Bicton not doing 
so well as could be wished through this; as some suppose; but 
to my knowledge the major part of them are doing very well. 
That is no reason why such tubs should not be adopted, as bad 
results can be easily prevented by cutting the hoops in two or 
three places after the tree is put where itis to grow.—J. T., 
Maesgwynne, South Wales. 


DESTROYING WORMS AND MOSS ON A LAWN. 


IsExr a question asked in your Journal this week, How to 
get rid of moss ina shrubbery? In reply the following may 
be useful. My Jawn was much infested with worms, which 
rendered it necessary to sweep it almost daily to look at all 
well; there was also a great quantity of moss onit. To destroy 
the worms I had it well watered with a solution of corrosive 
sublimate, about a teaspoonful powdered to eighteen gallons of 
water, and I find that, as well as destroying the worms, which 
were swept up in gallons, all the moss is also destroyed an@ 
the grass uninjured.— Pune Crowiey, Waddon House, Croydon. 


[Your query you will see replied to by our answer to another 
correspondent.—EDs. ] 


WATER SUPPLY AND STORAGE. 


Tue best mode of economically securing a sufiicient supply 
of water is becoming every day of more importance in those 
districts where there is no running stream near. ‘‘ Why don’t 
you drive some tubes into the ground, on the American pump 
principle, as they did lately in the war in Abyssinia?” says 
one; but we should have to drive 300 feet before we could 
reach any water to pump. ‘‘I am surprised you do not have 
Artesian wells, they would yield you sucha supply,” said a 
scientific lady. Occupying as high ground as any within 
some miles of us, it would be rather a singular thing to find 
water bubbling up under such circumstances from a moderate 
boring. True, we have found lakes and reservoirs of water 
on the tops of hills, but that is rather an exceptional cir- 
cumstance. Where the water is near the surface, there is no 
plan so simple and economical for securing water as sinking a 
well, or driving down a tube; but it is a serious matter when 
you must go down some hundreds of feet to reach the water- 
level. Under such circumstances the contest between the 
merits of wells and tanks and reservoirs is likely to be quite as 
animated as that between hot-water pipes and hot-water tanks 
for gardening purposes. One of the great drawbacks of deep. 
wells is the fact, that there is ever a liability to expense in the 
breaking of machinery, and in proportion to the depth the 
difficulty in reaching the water, securing fresh air for workmen, 
&c. The tank is often the simplest and the best. 

Some time azo we detailed how a large building and brick- 
making firm effected a great saying, when, instead of carting 
water a long way uphill, and a steep hill, too, they set apart an 
acre of ground, and had it laid ona uniform slope, so as to tend 
to a rough tank at one point, covering the ground with a thin 
layer of concrete rolled firmly. From that space of ground in 
the driest of these summers they haye had abundance of water 
for a large brickfield. 


On a neighbouring estate occupying an elevated position, the 


water question was every year becoming more serious as re 

spects farm, garden, &c., and some years ago a place pretty 
well an acrein extent was fixed upon, a reservoir built of bricks 
and cement, and the drainage of from one to two thousand acres 
conveyed into it, and there has been no scarcity of water since. 
Even last summer, dry as it was, only lowered the level of the 
water in this reservoir a few inches. The cost of digging, brick 
and cement, and labour, was, we are told, £1000, but it has 
proved to be money most profitably laid out. Carting has 
chiefly been resorted to, but with a small force pump, and the 
necessary piping, the water could be sent over all parts of the 
establishment. Of course, those who can secure water other- 
wise haye no occasion to go to such expense; but in many 


June 1, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HO&TICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


385 


eases collecting and saving the water in reservoirs would be 
much more economical than deep-well-sinking, and the water 
will generally be soft and pure. 

Many simple modes of storing water may be resorted to, as 
a natural pond with grassy sides, a clay-puddled pond, &e., but 
nothing beats brick and cement. We are sorry that accounts 
of failures reach us, and we are not surprised, as the work is 
often carelessly done. We have little preference, but we 
would prefer good Roman to Portland cement. Then the sand 
used should be limited in quantity, very clean washed, and sharp. 
The bricks should be laid in the cement as well as plastered 
over when laid. Very little cement should be moistened at a 
time. It will not wait like mortar. Lastly, only good bricks 
should be used, and they ought to be thoroughly soaked, so 
that no air-opening may be left before they are laid in the 
cement. Where air can go water will go. Dzryish bricks, and 
inferior cement mixed with muddy sand, are the chief causes 
why some brick tanks do not hold water much better than a 
mud hole. 

Some time ago a gentleman was to show his friends all about 
tank-building. He built his walls 9 inches thick in first-rate 


mortar, and had 9 inches of clay puddled outside the bricks, , 


and then when finished he had the joints inside raked a little, 
damped the bricks, and covered with about a quarter of an 
inch of cement. The cement cracked, and then the bricks 
acted as so many sponges to let the water escape. Except after 
a heavy rain the tank holds little water. 

As regards covered tanks, the form in which the walls are 
guilt matters but little—the circular is the strongest, only if 
very large, whether square or circular, they would be better of 
an open wall or arch across. Were we in future building them 
of a large size to be left open, as a reservoir, we would slope 
the walls outwards instead of building them perpendicular. 
Wei and frost in thé neighbouring ground have then less influ- 
ence on the walls. Heavy clay round such walls tries them 
more than any other soil by expanding and contracting. For all 
gardening purposes commend us to an open tank instead of 
any well water. Cement tanks, when shut up from air, will 
have a tendency for a long time to make the water hard. For 
Some years after building it is well to protect the walls of open 
tanks a little in winter. Wheat straw laid on so as to hang 
over the wall a foot or 18 inches, fastened with poles laid across 
the other ends, will generally be sufficient. Evergreen boughs 
would also serve the same purpose. In severe frost it is ad- 
visable to break the ice to lessen the expansive force against 
the walls. It is well also to draw enough of water so as to 
leave a space between the ice and the water. This lessens the 
‘expansion and keeps the body of water warmer. These may 
Seem very trifling matters, but the neglect of them has injured 
many a brick-and-cement tank the first winter. The earlier 
such tanks are built in summer the better generally they will 
Stand.—R. F. 


SOME PREDATORY INSECTS OF OUR 
GARDENS.—No. 9. 


SomeEsopy tells a story about a traveller who, when he entered 
an hotel and was about to inscribe his name in the visitors’ 
book, started back in horror and took his departure at once 
when he observed a certain insect which I need not name walk- 
ing over the pages. ‘‘ He had been bitten before,” as he ob- 
served to a friend, ‘‘and had taken it patiently, but this was 
too much. It was the first hotel he had been at where they 
‘came down to see where you were going to take up your quar- 
ters!” Whether some mysterious intelligence is conveyed to the 
realms of the insect world concerning what is printed in this 
Journal and who writes there I do not exactly know, but it looks 
at the present time very much as if Abraxas grossulariata was 
revenging itself upon the author of ‘‘Some Predatory Insects, 
&c.,” and changing his plural into a singular to make it have 
a personal interest. In truth, the caterpillars of this moth 
have abounded within my rather limited domain to an extent 
unparallelled in my experience hitherto, though now reduced 
by some hundreds through diligent hand-picking. So, good 
reader, if you are ever tempted to attack insects in print, have 
a caution that they do not retaliate upon youin a rather un- 
pleasant way. I may add, that having occasion to visit a friend 
in Sarrey, I find that though he is resident only three miles 
off from my garden plot, he has on his bushes scarcely any of 
the caterpillars of this moth, showing that the species is not 
$0 prolific generally this season. 

We saw in April the first appearance of butterflies in the 


form of the well-known Garden White; now its larger and 
stronger-winged relative, the Large or Cabbage White (Pieris 
Brassice) is beginning to emerge from its winter tarry in the 
chrysalis state, and disport itself about the gardens, to the 
delight of youngsters and the disgust of the horticulturist. The 
females in particular are soon ready to deposit eggs, which are 
usually placed in patches of from half a dozen to a dozen. 
These are placed almost invariably upon some one or other 
of the cultivated varieties of Cabbage, and, as they are fastened 
by the base, when we look at them with a hand-magnifier they 
resemble miniature ninepins. Another author thinks them 
like an Indian tom-tom, and a stronger magnifying power will 
show that they are not only ribbed, but marked with delicate 
lines. These adhere pretty firmly to the leaf, and it is well 
worth the gardener’s while to devote a little time to search- 
ing after them, not so much to admire them as to prevent all 
possibility of their producing caterpillars. 

On the wing the perfect insects of Pieris Brassice seem in 
some positions to show a yellowish tinge from the circumstance 
that the under side of the hind wings is yellowish white; but 
there is not sufficient of that colour to warrant the comparison 
which some think gave rise to the designation ‘ butterfly” as 
a general term for such insects. The most notably yellow 
species, the Brimstone, is rarely seen in sufficient abundance 
about gardens to attract particular notice. Others will have it 
that the name was given to these ‘‘ children of the sun’’ be- 
cause they are about in most profusion just at the season when 
butter is obtained in the greatest quantity. But I must ac- 
knowledge that neither of these explanations seems to me 
satisfactory, yet I cannot offer any other. The spring brood 
of Pieris Brassice was at one time thought to constitute a 
different species, the tips of the fore wings being usually lighter 
than are those of the second brood which, according to tempe- 
rature, comes forth in July or August. I have fancied, also, 
that the early individuals are more lively on the wing than the 
butterflies which have to endure the fervid heats of summer. 
In some seasons there are more successions of the species ; for 
instance, in the remarkable year 1868 the butterflies were out- 
almost uninterruptedly till quite late in autumn, and the cater- 
pillars swarmed on the garden Nasturtium in October and 
November. Indeed, up to November 15th they were feeding, 
and some quite small; after that I lost sight of them. This 
would lend some support to the statement that caterpillars as 
well as chrysalids are occasionally to be found in the winter. 
It is rarely that these caterpillars touch plants which do not 
belong to the Cruciferous order, though i have seen a party of 
them experimenting on the Hawthorn by way of change. One 
of the notable peculiarities of Pieris Brassice while a caterpillar 
is its cleverness in finding its way back again to its food-plant 
when dislodged from it. Bendingin a sort of half for a minute 
or two, it is soon crawling rapidly, and seldom fails in directing 
its course to very nearly the same spot where it was feeding. 
When young the caterpillars are often not distinguished from 
those of Pieris Rape by the gardener ; when older the superior 
size establishes the difference, as well as the three distinct 
stripes and the numerous dark markings. 

The fact is now well established that migrations of this but- 
terfly take place in some years, accounting for the sudden ap- 
pearance of swarms of the caterpillars in places not previously 
infested by them; and it can even venture across the ocean, as 
in the instance noted by Mr. Thorncroft, corroborating other 
instances which had rather been doubted. Mr. Thorncroft 
says that being on the coast one day in the afternoon, there 
came in a troop of Pieris Brassica mingled with Rapx. ‘‘ There 
must have been hundreds within a very short space of time; 
but what surprised us most was their alighting or settling on 
the sea with expanded wings, and the ease with which they rose 
again. They all came in direct from the sea from a south- 
westerly direction.” 

The caterpillars of P. Brassicw, though not like the perfect 
insects at all inclined to locomotion, do sometimes under the 
pressure of hunger wander in parties in search of ‘ fresh fields 
and pastures new.’ In the Isle of Wight some years ago, an 
entomologist reports that they spread themselves from the 
district where they first appeared over the adjacent country, 
crawling in companies over roads and paths, and even climbing 
over garden walls. On the Cabbages and Broccoli nothing re- 
mained but stems and fibres. No doubt the excessive multi- 
plication noticed in some years is favoured by the absence or 
diminution of the parasitic enemies, which do more than man 
can effect to kesp down the species. Especially are the labours 
of the ichneumon fly (Microgaster glomeratus) deserving of our 


386 


thanks; though it does not retard the growth of the caterpillar 
to maturity, it never permits the emergence of the butterfly. 
The silken cocoons are to be seen often enough on palings, 
“attached to the writhing caterpillar. I believe, also, that a 
Dipterous insect of larger proportions has helped to thin out 
the caterpillars of P. Brassice, which, unlike those of some 
others of the Lepidoptera, seems devoid of all power of de- 
fending itself from insect foes. Sparrows, also, if tolerated in 
gardens, will do a good work, picking up caterpillars of all ages, 
and even the eggs, according to one authority. They have also 
been seen to take, off palings and walls, the soft chrysalis just 
transformed. The removal of the lower leaves on the infested 
plants does something towards diminishing the number of 
caterpillars, these being their favourite resorts at first. A re- 
markable device has been suggested, to the following effect—‘ If 
ina patch of ground where Cabbages are to be planted, some 
Hemp seed be sown all around the edge in the spring, the strong 
smell which the plant gives off will prevent the butterflies from 
settling on the plants. The Russian peasantry in those pro- 
vinces where Hemp is grown, place their Cabbages within 
those fields, by which means they are free from caterpillars.” 
There may be something in this, perhaps, but what may be 
called the maternal instinct is strong in all species, and will 
overcome various obstacles. It is, no doubt, true that butter- 
flies are affected by odours. 


All the white butterflies we see are not, however, injurious | 


to our gardens. That pretty species, the Green-yeined White 
(P. Napi), so similar to the more common P. Rapz, is stated 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 1, 1872. 


by Newman, whose authority in such a matter is unquestion- 
able, not to attack cultivated plants, with the sole exception of 
the Watercress, which is a food very congenial to the palate of 
the caterpillar. The Black-veined White (P. Crategi), which, 
abroad, is stated to do much damage to fruit trees, is too scarce 
and local a species in England to be deemed at all dangerous, 
and of late years it has disappeared from various places where 
it used to occur. Hntomologists of the olden time reported it 
as occurring abundantly in Little Chelsea (or Brompton), feed- 
ing there while a caterpillar on the Hawthorn hedges, and, no 
doubt, proceeding from these to the trees in the orchards there 


| enclosed, and which still remain, though the insect has dis- 


appeared. So also in the warmer temperatures of some parts 
of the Continent of Europe, the fine species known as the Elm 
Butterfly, or Large Tortoiseshell (Vanessa polychloros), is suffi- 
ciently abundant to be enumerated amongst the enemies of the 
fruit trees. In France the caterpillars are most frequently 
found on the wild and cultivated Cherry, clearing of their 
leaves whole rows of the latter in some summers. One cause of 
its plentifulness is the number of eggs laid by the mother 
butterfly, averaging four hundred or more. In Britain, the 
caterpillars are usually seen on the Elm or the Willow, and it 
would appear as if our climate were less favourable to their 
growth, for it is reckoned one of our scarce insects, and though 
the caterpillars are gregarious, the butterflies are frequently 
seen singly. Herein it differs remarkably {rom its pretty an@ 
common relative, the Nettle feeder (V. Urtice), so often seen 
disporting in parties on banks of wild flowers.—_J. R. 8S. C. 


GROUND LEVELLING AND PRACTICAL GARDEN PLOTTING.—No. 17. 
DRAWING PLANS. 


To draw and transfer to the ground jig. 40. Draw the inside 
circle, divide it into five equal parts, as described in jig. 12 
(see vol. xix., page 364). With point f as cen're draw circles k 
and i, as shown by the thick and dotted lines; draw cor- 
responding circles from 
points a, b,c,ande. Again 
from point f draw ares h 
and g, also draw corre- 
sponding ares from points 
a, b, c,ande. Where the 
lines eut each other are the 
corners of the beds. From 
centre r draw circle s 

To transfer fig. 40 to the 
ground. Find the centre of 
the piece of ground upon 
which it is intended to 
trace the design, and insert 
a peg,as at pointr. Lay 
the diameter line a ad, 


1, 2, 3, 4,5; as the line is 40 feet in length, each division wil? 
be 8 feet—that is, from the peg at point a@ measure § feet, 
and insert a peg as at point 1; from the peg at point 1 mea- 
sure S feet, and insert a peg as at point 2, &c. From the 
peg at point t—that is, 
where the two arcs traced. 
from pegs a and d cut each 
other—lay a line passing. 
through the second point 
or division and cutting the 
circle at point f; then lay 
a line from peg f to peg a, 
which will be one side of 
the polygon. Apply the 
line five times to the 
circle, and insert a peg at 
each point, as at points 
a, b,c, e,and f. From the 
peg at centre 7, with a. 
string 39 feet long, trace 


making 7 the centre. The 
diameter line a d is 40 feet 
long. From the peg at 
centre 7, with a line 20 feet 
long, trace circlea be def; 
divide the circle into five 
equal parts, to get the 
centres from which the 
design is traced. Tho best 
and surest way to do so is 
to form a pentagon inside 
the circle in the same man- 
ner as described in jig. 12. 
It is done thus on the 
ground :—From the peg at 
point a, with a string equal 
in length to the diameter— 
that is, 40 feet long, trace 


I: 


Fig. 40. Scale 24 feet to the inch. 


circle s; from the peg at 
point f, with a string 19 feet 
3 inches long, trace circle 
k, as shown by the thick 
and dotted line; reduce the 
string 4 feet and trace 
circle i, also shown by the 
thick and dotted line. 
From the pegs at points 
a, b, c, and e, with the same 
lengths of string, trace cor- 
responding circles to k and 
i. From the peg at point f, 
with a string 8 feet long, 
trace arch; reduce the string 
4 feet and trace arcg; trace 
corresponding ares from the- 
pegs at points a, b, c, e. 


an arc from the peg at point d to pointt; then from the | From centre pegr, with a string 2 feet 6 inches long, trace the 


peg at point d, with the same radius, trace an are from peg a 
tot. Where the two arcs cut each other at point ¢ inserta 
peg, then divide the diameter line into five equal parts, as 


circle in the centre. 
corners of the beds, marked; w being walks.—M. O‘DonnELL, 
Gardener to E. Leeming, Esq., Spring Grove, Richmond. 


Where the lines cut each other are the 


NOTES AND 

Ty the Royan HorricurturaL Society’s GARDEN aT CuHIs- 
Wick, which Mr. Barron is laying out in an admirable manner 
for its purpose as an experimental garden, he has formed near 
the Council Room a series of oblong beds on grass for the trial 


GLEANINGS 

of BEDDING PLANTS. They are of sufficient size to allow of & 
fair estimate being formed of the comparative merits of the 
plants when seen in a mass, and being now completed it is 
much to be desired that the present season should be taken ad- 


June 1, 1871. ] 


vantage of by those who intend sending plants for trial, and 
who should forward them to Mr. Barron, Royal Horticultural 
Society, Chiswick, London, W. 

— Mr. Moors, Curator of the Botanic Garden, Chelsea, 
intends giving a course of six LECTURES ON Borany, the first of 
which was to take place May 31st, and which are to be con- 
tinued on succeeding Saturdays and Wednesdays. 


—— Tue Scorriso ArBorIcuLTURAL Society has just issued 
its volume of Transactions for the past year, edited by Mr. 
James Sadler. The objects of the Society are the promotion of 
the science of Arboriculture in all its branches by periodical 
meetings of the members for the reading of papers, by offering 
prizes and reports on the practical operations of forestry, and 
publication of the same, and by such other means as may be 
found advisable; and it numbers among its members most of 
the botanists, arboriculturists, and practical foresters of Scot- 
land. In the present volume are a number of practical essays 
on various points of tree cultivation, and for the current year no 
fewer than nineteen prizes are offered, the competition for some 
being limited to working foresters and woodmen.—(Nature.) 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 
Now is.a good time to carry out a vigorous crusade against 
weeds; the hoe ought never to be at rest in a well-cultivated 
kitchen garden till they are all destroyed. The ground is so 
dry that seeds cannot vegetate. When a succession of Horn 
Carrots, Lettuces, and Radishes is required, it is a good plan 
to water the ground and cover it with old mats until the seed- 
lings are fairly above the surface. Prepare trenches for Celery 
and Cardoons, to be ready for planting as soon as rain comes. 
Embrace the first opportunity afforded by the ground being 
moist for thinning Carrots, Beet, Onions, and Parsnips, and as 
it is presumed that these have mostly been sown in drills, let 
the hoe be run through between the drills, not merely shaving 
the surface of the soil, but moving it an inch or two in depth. 
This, while it roots out the weeds, at the same time checks 
rapid evaporation and pulverises the ground. Stake Scarlet 
Runners after drawing a little earth to them with the hoe. 
Where itis intended to keep the n dwarf and not to stake them, 
let the leaders be pinched off. By constant attention to stop- 
ping the leaders as they advance above three or four joints in 
length, Scarlet Runners will be induced to bear well. The 
latter mode of culture should only be resorted to when stakes 
cannot easily be procured. Give recently-planted Celery copious 
waterings once or twice weekly. The method frequently pur- 
sued of giving plants in the open ground a small drop of water 
every evening or morning cannot. be too much deprecated, such 
sprinklings cake the ground and lower the temperature of the soil 
without any corresponding benefit to the plants. Make a small 
sowing of Red Beet; when sown early in rich soil it becomes 
too large and coarse, and does not retain its colour in boiling, 
nor look so well in salud as smaller roots of the same variety. 


FRUIT GARDEN. 

The Strawberry beds will now require attention as to water- 
ing, &c. After thoroughly cleaning the beds a good soak- 
ing should be given at the first possible opportunity, and if a 
moderate watering from the stable tank can be applied when the 
ground has been well saturated with clean water, it will greatly 
assist in securing large fruit. The beds should be mulched 
as soon after watering as convenient, in order to prevent 
evaporation, and the fruit from being spoiled. Next to slates 
or tiles, clean straw is the best material for this purpose, Con- 
tinue active operations against aphides and other pests to fruit 
trees. The shoots of Cherry trees infested with the black fly 
should be dipped in tobacco water immediately the insects are 
detected, to prevent the shoot from curling, which would stop 
its growth. Hither pick-off the caterpillars with the hand, or 
apply a wash of lime or clear soot water to Gooseberries and 
Currants infested with Gooseberry caterpillar, which increases 
so rapidly that a constant watch must be kept-up for some 
time. Pinch-back all Currant shoots not wanted for wood. 
The fruit of Gooseberries, &., like those of more value, will 
be considerably improved by summer-stopping the young wood 
—a fact well-known to those who have paid attention to this 

_mode of pruning, which is much better understood on the Con- 
tinent than in England. 
FLOWER GARDEN. 

The newly-planted subjects will require constant watching, 

as under the best management failures will sometimes occur. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


387 


Blanks should instantly be made good, and the tyingand staking 
of everything requiring support must on no account be delayed. 
Where an immediate display of flowers is not wanted the buds 
may be picked off for a week or two to encourage the plants to 
cover the ground. A full sowing should now be made of 
Brompton Stocks and all perennials for flower-garden purposes. 
Make a successional sowing of some of the most choice hardy 
annuals for autumn flowering. Pay particular attention to the: 
stirring of the soil amongst the plants in beds and borders; thie 
will be attended with the best results, and ought to be carried 
on till the plants begin to grow and cover the surface of the 
beds, when it ought to be discontinued. Be sure that plants 
growing in baskets, vases, &c., are properly attended to, and 
thoroughly watered at the close of very hot days. The Holly- 
hocks should now be staked and attended to as they advance 
in growth. The rosery should have all the attention that can 
be spared at this busy season ; remove all shoots and suckers, 
and keep a sharp look-out after insects. The Rose has many 
enemies, from the appalling earwig to the seemingly harmless 
aphis ; use all means at hand to destroy these, though nothing 
is equal to hand-picking for eradicating grubs and beetles. It 
is a tiresome and laborious method, yet it is the only one te 
which recourse can be had with permanent advantage. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 
Conservatory and stove climbers will require attention to keep- 
ing the current year’s shoots within proper limits. If possible,. 
avoid everything like formality in arranging the branches, and, 
provided at the winter regulation of the plants the main shoots 
were trained to occupy the desired positions, the young wood 
may to a considerable extent be allowed to follow its natural 
mode of growth, if this does not create confusion, which is as 
much to be guarded against as strict formality. Hardenbergias, 
Kennedyas, &c., may be slightly cut back after blooming to in- 
duce a new growth. Water should now be given liberally to 
plants in the open borders of the conservatory, excepting, 
perhaps, those recently planted. Use the engine whenever it 
can be done without interfering with the visits of the family 
or company ; either early in the morning or late in the evening, 
will at this season be found the most suitable time, that the 
house may become dry before it is wanted for visitors. The 
display of bloom must be kept up, and as there is now a large 
number of plants to select from, considerable variety may be 
effected at each regulation of the inmates. Shade daily when 
requisite, and give air in proportion to the state of the external 
atmosphere. The stock of Balsams and other annuals groww 
for filling vacant places in the greenhouse, should be encouraged 
by frequent shifts; keep them in bottom heat and near the 
glass, pick off the early-formed bloom-buds, as the plants: 
should attain a considerable size before being allowed to bloom.. 
Continue to train Kalosanths neatly, and water them with 
liquid manure occasionally. Specinten Scarlet Geraniums 
should likewise have liberal encouragement. Show and@ 
Fancy Pelargoniums for late blooming will thrive better in a 
somewhat shady situation, where they can at the same time be 
protected from heavy rains. Fuchsias, if not‘in their blooming- 
pots, should be potted forthwith. Train them in the desired 
form, and pinch back weak and straggling shoots. Young stock 
in pits and frames will now be making rapid growth, and must 
be carefully attended to as to watering, stopping, training, &. 
Examine Heaths frequently for mildew, and apply sulphur the 
moment it is observed. Some of the soft-leaved varieties are: 
very liable to be attacked by that pest at this season.— 
W. Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 
We earthed-up and mulched Cauliflowers planted out and 
pricked out for succession. Did the same with the most for- 
ward Cabbages, after giving them a good soaking with sewage 
two days or so after forking the ground, which had bezome hard- 
baked on the surface. We sprinkled Celery pricked out in beds 
and growing freely. We would have planted out some beds 
finally, only we should have required much more water, and 
until fresh tanks are finished and full, we must be careful of 
what little we have. The expense of carting water last season 
an expense that to some farmers with a large stock of beasts. 
almost amounted to a second rent, has made many aware of the 
importance of saving the water from buildings and from drain- 
age, instead of letting it run off and putrify in stagnant. 
ditches. 
Succession crops, &¢c., much the same as last week. Pota- 


388 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ June 1, 1871. 


toes, Peas, Parsnips, Carrots, and Onions, never looked better. 
We must get our forced Sea-kale cut up and planted again. 
Our Globe Artichokes we have partly replanted, as some large 
stools were killed by the frost, though protected with litter, but 
not put on thickly. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Strawberries.—Expecting rain, we had the ground between 
the rows hoed, and watered with sewage, hoping the rain would 
wash it more thoroughly down. This is the most profitable 
way of giving such watering. Shortly afterwards we mulched 
the ground with long littery dung, from which all, or mostly all, 
of the short was shaken out, that being too valuable for Mush- 
rooms and other purposes not to be looked after, and now the 
rains afterwards have washed the mulching so as to leave it 
aweet and clean. We used to suffer as early as this with mice 
cutting off the flowers and nibbling through the flower-stems, 
but this season, having caught so many in figure-4 traps, we 
have seen no sign of them as yet. 

We shall soon have all the Strawberries in pots out of the 
houses; the vineries are cleared, and the highest shelves in the 
Peach house will be cleared in a few days; we must then depend 
on those in a pit and in the orchard houses before they come 
in out of doors, as we do not think we shall need to raise any 
and plant under glass this season. There is sometimes an 
awkward few days between the potted plants and those which 
bear naturally out of doors. If we are in any doubt we shall 
place a few lights over a piece on asloping bank. We have 
taken several lots from our most forward orchard house, and 
replaced them with those in pots from out of doors, and thus 
they came on gradually with little more help than shutting up 
the house at night. A good many of the forced plants have 
been planted out. We are surprised that a correspondent has 
failed, when he adopted this plan. For some thirty years we 
have f und no plan so sure of yielding an immense crop the 
first season after planting. Is he sure that the fruit buds had 
not suffered from the frost of last winter? We are quite satis- 
fied that ours have done so. A few open flowers have also 
suffered from frost, but these are comparatively few, and there 
are plenty fresh enough, and setting pretty freely. In taking 
zunners, however, it would be advisable to avoid the barren 
plants. The kinds with us that are up to the usual state of 
iree blooming are young plants of Keens’ Seedling; young and 
older of Black Prince, and Empress Eugénie, a rather weak- 
growing kind as respects the plants, but blooming freely, and 
producing large fruit. 

One principal reason for turning out Strawberry plants from 
elevated positions in houses, is the difficulty of getting up to 
water them, and then the risk in hot weather of red spider, 
which may not be easily confined to the Strawberry leaves. If 
We Saw any red spider on a plant we would sooner throw it 
away than plant it out of doors. When we have any doubt we 
clear the plants of all flower-stalks, lay the pots on their sides, 
and syringe them well with clear soot and lime water before 
planting them. 

From the early vinery we have removed all or nearly all the 
plants, so that the atmosphere may be dry as the fruit ripens. 
A little sulphur on the pipes or wall will then do no harm. 
For late Vines see what was stated the other week. When 
the berries are forming and young they will not stand hot 
sulphur fumes, and many things are blamed for rusted berries, 
when the true cause is simply hot sulphur fumes. Our fruit 
houses are only truly fruit houses as the fruit approaches 
maturity, and when the houses are being washed and clean; 
at all other times they are either greenhouses in winter or 
stove-plant houses in summer. Until the foliage becomes too 
dense, the shade of the Vines is rather grateful to many plants, 
‘We have never had better Gesnera zebrina than when grown 
under the shade of Vines, and where there was every security 
that the foliage should be dry before a sunbeam reached it. A 
moist leaf with a scorching ray on it just spoils all the beauty. 
‘Towards autumn the leaves are not so sensitive. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Dividing, increasing, fresh potting, and fresh surfacing 
Mosses and Ferns, and getting them for relief under the shade 
of Vines, have occupied much of our time. Potted Euphorbia 
jacquinizflora so that they may become good-sized plants. 
We cut down Poinsettia pulcherrima, and made cuttings of the 
length of two buds, and when dried inserted them as cuttings. 
As soon as the older plants have broken an inch or so, we 
shall remove most of the old soil, repot, and give at first a 
little bottom heat. These we shall depend on for something 
like parasol floral leaves; the cuttings will supply nice little 


plants with smaller heads. In looking at Caladiums lately re- 
potted into rather strong, lumpy, fibrous, fresh loam well en- 
riched, we were much struck with the large roots threading this 
rather strong loam. Peat earth, or rather heath soil, is be- 
coming almost a luxury with us, and we are convinced that 
many plants would do just as well without it as with it, and 
grow all the more robustly in consequence. We are going 
back to our old love for charcoal, and char most of our rubbish 
instead of burning it. Almost the only thing that compara- 
tively beats us is sawdust; we have little hope of succeeding 
with it unless we had some sort of oven on purpose. We have 
frequently blacked it without charring it. A little charcoal 
however small, not larger than quills, or even crow feathers, 
when free from dust, lightens the soil for small pots. Potted 
flowering and fine-leaved Begonias, Hranthemums, and winter- 
blooming plants. Greenhouse plants, and changing them from 
place to place, we alluded to lately. 

Our chief work at the end of the week was planting out some 
thousands of bedding plants. Almost everything has been ex- 
posed for eight days, except Coleus and such other tender 
plants. We have planted out a few, just to show what we in- 
tend having, but the bulk we will keep where we can place glass 
over them for a fortnight or three weeks. On May 29th we 
hope to turn some hundreds of plants into 6-inch pots, and 
give them a fortnight of free growth, and then some days’ ex- 
posure before they are turned out. ‘Once bit, twice shy.” 
Once our plants suffered from frost, now we prefer to have 
largish plants and to turn out later, so as nearly to fill the 
allotted space at once. We have had nothing so striking for 
several years in the way of colour as the Coleus Verschafieltii. 
We have tried many others, but we have fund none to be 
depended on in our exposed place, either for standing or for 
colour. We intend using more of the above brown crimson 
this season. Some we will have in rows, with yellow Calceo- 
larias on one side, and white Madame Vaucher Geranium on 
the other side; some in beds edged with young plants of Cen- 
taurea candidissima; and others in beds edged with Polemo- 
nium ceruleum variegatum. We have put out a lot of strong 
bushy plants of Iresine Herbstii. They had been struck as 
thickly as grass, and then turned out into the pit from which 
the Calceolarias had been removed to earth pits, the Iresine 
lifting well with balls. Iresine Lindenii has been treated in 
the same way, and will be planted out presently. Partly from 
want of water we plant all we can in preparatory beds instead 
of potting them. Watering and labour are thus greatly mini- 
mised. Of course the plan would not suit plant-dealers. Itis 
only practicable where you can raise and carry to plant. Our 
Calceolarias are never ina pot. The plants are lifted with ex- 
cellent balls, the fresh roots peeping all round. 

One thing has interfered with our proposed arrangements. 
We had four large spaces which we generally made each into 
four clumps or groups, surrounded with an edging of the 
Cineraria maritima. We protected the Cineraria in winter 
with a ridge of dry ashes, and six weeks ago we thought all 
was safe. We find now, however, that a great many plants are 
dead, and that the others will want some nursing, so as to be 
depended on. We shall have to alter the planting. Had we 
noticed sooner we might have had lots of seedlings, but they 
are not good for much the first season, being too green to be 
thoroughly effective. We notice that the Centaurea stands the 
winter in the far north. A good many stood here last year. 
This season, even with a little protection, not a single plant 
has survived. 

A word to our amateur readers with small gardens. When 
hardening-off your plants keep them together in groups; they 
will be more easily watered, and if a cold night come they can 
be easily protected; in fact, each plant will help to protect its 
neighbour. Many anxious people injure hundreds of plants 
by setting them in their pots on the beds where they intend 
planting them, and leaving them there for a number of days. 
In cold nights and bright days the roots suffer very much, 
even when the top does not show it. Whenever you take them 
to the bed get them at once into the soil. As hinted above, 
however, do not be in too great a hurry, even in doing that. 
Plants standing together will be safer than when scattered, 
and a warmer soil, which has been well exposed to the action 
of the air, will soon make up for a week or ten days’ later 
planting.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED. 


W. Milligan, 1, Church Place, and Westpark, Dumfries.— Catalogue 
of Florists’ Flowers, Bedding-out Plants, dc. 


June 1, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


389 


B. S. Williams, Victoria and Paradise Nursery, Upper Holloway, 
London.— Catalogue of New and Rare Plants. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 


** We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘“ Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Jowrnal of Horticulture, éc., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 

We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same 
sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry 
and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them answered 
promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate 
communications. Also neyer to send more than two or 
three questions at once. 

N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. 


Booxs (A Young Gardener).—Smith’s “ Introduction to Botany,” edited 
by Macgilivray ; Jobnson’s ‘Science and Practice of Gardening; “ In- 
door Gardening,” and ‘‘ Out-door Gardening.” The three last-named can 
be had from our office. (IZ. N.),—Lindley’s “ Introduction to Botany.” 

Dircu Prant (Rab).—Probably one of the Ulvacez, all common. 

PINcHING EsPALIER PEAR TREES (Old Subscriber).—If your espalier 
Pear trees are furnished with leaf buds near the bole, close summer- 
pinching will induce fruitfulness. Root-pruning in autumn is recom- 
mended for a too-luxuriant growth. If the trees are bare of leaf as well 
as blossom buds, they must be headed back ; and to cause them to break 
regularly, pinch the point out of the leading shoots twice during the 
summer, pinching all back growths in closely. 


Pear LEAVES BLACKENED (TZ. Liaz).—Yes, the cold winds and white 
frosts caused the wrinkles and blackness. (A Subscriber, Co. Down).— 
Night frosts and easterly winds have caused the blackness. There is no 
remedy. 

Currinc Down Youne Pear TREES (Greenhorn).—Your Pear trees 
budded on the Quince should be cut down when the leaves fall in 
autumn. You should not cut close to the bud ; cut over the young shoot 
at 18 inches above where the bud was inserted. You can obtain all the 
information you require on Strawberry culture from the pages of this 
Journal. 

Sport oF THE SCARLET HawrHorn (A. R.).—A spray of white flowers 
on this is not common, but not unique. Such returns to the normal 
colour occur in almost all variations. 

GrRowinec MusHrRooms IN A Woop CaSsE IN A CELLAR (EF. R. P.).—The 
best plan is to procure some horse droppings fresh from the stable, and 
spread them thinly on a dry floor until a sufficient quantity be secured 
to form a bed 1 foot deep. When you have that quantity mix with them 
an equal quantity of turf taken from a pasture where the soil is a rich 
light loam, chop up the whole rather small, and form it into a bed about 
14 inches deep, putting-in about 83-inch layers at a time and beating firm. 
Proceed thus until you have the required thickness. Let the materials 
remain until they heat, and when the heat is not more than the hand 
can bear comfortably, or when a thermometer with its bulb inserted 
about 2 inches indicates 90°, insert the spawn, making sure that the 
bed will not become hotter after the spawn is inserted. It is well not to 
be in too great a hurry about spawning, but to wait a day or two to see if 
the bed increases in temperature; if it do so you must wait until it 
decline to 90°. Put in the pieces of spawn the size of an egg, in holes 
9 inches apart, and an inch deep, closing-up the holes and beating firm. 
In about a week cover with 2 inches of soil. The turfy loam will answer 
very well if chopped-up fine, but for this purpose it is best when six 
months old. Make the covering very firm, allow it to remain for six weeks, 
then you may apply water at 75° until the soil is just moistened, and 
in about a week Mushrooms will appear. All youhave to dois to keep the 
soil just moist. A bed will bear a considerable time. We haye one which 
has been in bearing since the beginning of February, and now produces 
an abundance of fleshy Mushrooms. 

Finperts UNPRODUCTIVE (Idem).—The cause of the trees not bearing 
is probably the proximity to the sea, though we have seen Filberts doing 
very well at a short distance. We would thin-out the branches so as to 
admit sun and air, and remove all suckers from the base. 


WALks (Idem).—We do not know of any mode of making garden walks 
that will keep the weeds down, except asphalting or using cement, and of 
the two the former is the cheaper and better. 


Urinistinc BUILDING Ground (Idem).—The land would be best sown 
with Rye Grass. We should work it so to have it in good order by Sep- 
tember, and on the first prospect of rain in that month we would sow 
of Italian Rye Grass, 14 bushel; Pacey’s Perennial Rye Grass, 2 bushels ; 
and White Clover, 41bs. There will be a cutting in spring, and two or 
three during the summer, and will be good for two or three years. 

Pansies (J. H.).—We cannot undertake to name the varieties of florists’ 
flowers. 

Pansy PROPAGATION BY SEED AND CurTines (H. V.).—Drain a pan 
well, place over the drainage about an inch of the roughest of the com- 
post, which may consist of turfy loam, light rather than heavy, two parts, 
and one part leaf soil made very fine and sifted, adding one-fourth of 
sand. With this fill the pan to within half an inch of the rim, level, 
scatter the seed evenly, and cover with about one-eighth of an inch thick 
of soil. Place the pan in a house with a gentle heat, or in a mild hotbed, 
keeping the soil just moist, and shading so as to avoid very frequent 
watering, and to keep uniform moisture in the soil. When the seedlings 
appear, place the pan near the glass and admit light and air abundantly. 
Remove the seedlings to a cold frame in about a week after they are up, 
and when they show the second rough leaf prick them off in pans or boxes 
prepared as for sowing, placing them about an inch apart, return them to 
the cold frame for a few days, then harden them well off, and finally 


{ plant them out where they are to flower. They may also be planted about 


6 inches apart in beds, from which they can be removed with balls in 
autumn or early in spring to their final quarters. For cuttings select 
shoots which proceed from the base of the plant, and are from 1} to 
24 inches in length, slipping them off close to their origin. Pare the base 
smooth with a sharp knife, remove the leaves half way up the cuttings, 
and insert these to that depth either in pans prepared as above or in a 
like compost in the open ground, where they can be covered with a hand- 
glass. If inserted in pans place these in a cold frame, and shade them 
from sun, keeping them moist and close vutil they are rooted, as they will 
be in about a fortnight, then admit air and gradually harden them off. It 
is not absolutely necessary that the cuttings should have a heel, but those 
taken from the base of the plant make the healthiest stock. 


BULBS FROM THE CAPE (Ignoramus).—We should pot them at once, and 
place them in a frame over a sweet hotbed about 18 inches high, 
giving a bottom heat of 70° to 75°, plunging the pots to the rim, but not 
using the lights except when the weather is very wet; then put on the 
lights to exclude the rain, but tilting them back and front so as to admit 
air freely. By this process you will probably secure the production of 
a quantity of roots before the tops are far advanced. As they begin to 
grow, remove the pots to a light airy part of the greenhouse. Afford good 
drainage, and a compost of two parts yellow or hazel loam, one part brown 
sandy peat, and one part of old cow dung, with a free admixture of sharp 
sand. Use in the first place pots twice the diameter of the bulbs; suck 
will be sufficiently large for most kinds. 


RHIPIDOPTERIS PELTATA (S. 4. M.).—We are unable to account for tho 
plant not haying put up a fertile frond, but we think it is owing to its age. 
Being now a good plant it will probably produce fertile fronds by autumn. 


LILIES OF THE VALLEY NOT FLOWERING (F. S.).—We think the failure 
is due to the warm border. They like slight shade and moisture. Tako 
them up in November, and plant them in clumps about a foot apart in 
rich light soil on a north border, but not close to a high wall; or an east 
aspect will do. Mulch with about an inch of partially decayed leaves, 
and after April water plentifully in dry weather. You would see what 
was said about Violets in recent numbers of this Journal. The best 
time to plant White Narcissus is as soon as the stalks and leaves turn 
yellow, taking up, and, after dividing, replanting the same day; or they 
may be planted up to October, but the sooner after the leaves turn yellow 
the better. Under any circumstances replanting should be done before 
they begin to grow. 

LocaL FLowER SHows (7. G.).—We cannot find space for reports of 
them. There are hundreds, and of no interest except to dwellers in the 
immediate vicinity of each. Poultry shows are quite different; almost 
every exhibitor is a seller, and, compared with flower shows, they are few. 


Warterinc Dwarr Rosss (F. J.)—The young dwarf Roses mulched 
with short litter should be watered about once a-week, one gallon and a 
half being a good supply for them, but much will depend on their growth. 
Weak-growing plants will not require the same quantity as those which 
are vigorous, and some allowance must be made for those not in health. 
Roses delight in water overhead, and we would always give it if the soil 
is in a healthful, moist condition. In dry weather, however, water at the 
roots will be required, as well as sprinkling every evening in hot weather, 
watering once a-week as you name, and twice a-week in very dry, hot 
weather. Watering requires judgment. There is no book on the subject,. 
but most books on gardening give sufficient instructions. : 

Lawn Mower (Idem).—Any of the lawn mowers advertised in our 
columns would suit you, and you can cut with them so as to leave the 
grass as a mulch by removing the grass-box. We cannot depart from our 
rule not to recommend dealers. 


AsPARAGUS CUTTING (4 Farmer).—The less you cut from it the stronger 
it will come the next year. Do not cut down the stems now 2 or 3 feet 
high. Give abundance of liquid manure, and encourage the growth of 
the stems—they are providing for next year’s production. 

CUCUMBERS SHRIVELLING (J. S., Homerton).—Remove the surface soil 
down to the roots, place in its stead some light rich compost—two-thirds 
earth and one-third decayed stable manure. Water with tepid, weak,. 
liquid manure. 

PoraTors FoR Next Spring (—— ).—You may plant Potatoes in the 
middle of July, or a little earlier, and if these are kept protected in the 
ground, or taken-up before frosted, and kept in dry soilin a dark place, 
they will, about and after Christmas, pass for new Potatoes, Ash-leaved 
Kidneys and early kinds are generally best. The tubers must be kept 
dry and retarded before planting. 7 


GREENHOUSE AND STOVE (Greenhouse).—We have little doubt that the 
Vines doing so well, planted in the raised border in the middle of the 
house, is greatly owing to the heat of the pipes placed in the middle of 
the house. The roots and even the stems of the Vines would be com~ 
paratively cold. Two or more pipes placed within a foot of the stems of 
the front Vines would much help them. When pipes are placed in the 
middle of a wide house, with the floor of such unequal level, it is a good 
thing to have drains under the bed of earth, so that there may be a free 
interchange of cold and heated air. 


FLOWER GARDEN (C. W.).—The flower-garden planting is good on the: 
whole ; but as you give the keynote by edging No. 1, Flower of the Day 
with Iresine Lindenii, so we would continue the same plan, and edge 
2, 8, 4, 5 with Cineraria maritima, Centaurea, or a white-leaved Geranium. 
The 6, 8, 7, 9 we would edge with good plants of Pyrethrum, as you pro- 
pose for 7; 9,12, 18,10, 15 we would mix and edge with Lobelia; 11 and 
14 we would edge with Purple King Verbena, and if the pigeons will not 
let that grow, try Iresine Herbstii. 


SPAN-ROOFED VinERY (A New Subscriber).—There is nothing better 
than is to be found, as you say, in Loudon and McIntosh. The cheapest 
mode is to havea fixed roof, a double ridge-board, with an open space for 
ventilation between, and a cowl over the space to let air in and keep wet 
out. A more elegant plan is to have a lantern all \the way, raised above 
such ridge-boards. A simpler mode would be to haye so many moveable 
top lights. You will obtain no better information easily than in the“ Vine 
Manual.” If the house is to be 40 feet in length, a good width would be 
20 feet, but it might be more if deemed desirable. For an ordinary house 
the front sashes might be from 4 to 6 feet in height, including the front 
wall, but for early or late work a house with a front wall a foot above the 
ground, and the ridge-board 11 or more feet in height, would come in very 
useful. There would be free walking room in the middle of the house, 


390 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ June 1, 1871. 


The most profitable angle for the roof, all things considered, is about 45°, 
but a very flat roof will do for general purposes, when you have upright 
glass in front, as that admits the sun’s rays freely in winter, late autumn, 
and early spring. The most economical mode of ventilating a fixed roof 
has been referredto above. Leavea space 1 foot wide between the ridge- 
boards, and supply the space with boards, pivot-hung, that will open at 
once when the support is withdrawn. The arrangement and amount of 
piping will depend entirely on what is wanted from it, and the size of the 
house. Supposing the house to be 40 feet by 20, about 200 feet of piping 
would be necessary in order to ripen Grapes at the end of June, half as 
much more to ripen them earlier, and double that quantity to have them 
very early. The most profitable plan for the pipes would be to place 
them level on each side within 2 feet or so of the respective sides, as 
might be convenient. Pipes placed on the level will do more work than 
~those raised above each other in stacks. 


VINES Not Fruitine (4. G.).—As the wood and foliage of your Vines 
are looking well, there is a good prospect of your obtaining a crop of 
Grapes next year. Fora conservatory, with plants underneath, the Vine 
rods should not be less than 4 feet apart—6 feet would be better—the 
side shoots 18 inches apart. The foliage will then have ample space to 
expand to its natural size, and the wood will ripen well, without which 
you will not obtain good Grapes. Pinch the point out of the shoot two 
leaves above the bunch, where there is no bunch pinch at seven leaves. 
‘Cold draughts are very injurious to Vines at any time, especially so at 


the time of flowering and after the Grapes are set. Water escaping from” 


the gutter in winter and saturating the border would be highly injurious 
to the roots. The most probable cause of unfruitfulness is the roots 


being out of order; you should examine the border, and if the roots are | 


anhealthy remove as much as possible of the old material, and replace it 
with fresh turfy loam. 


VINE SHOOTS AND GRAPE BuNCHES DESTROYED (A Subscriber).—We 
-can detect no insects’ eggs on the specimens enclosed, and we think the 
mischief is what gardeners call ‘‘ shanking.” It is an ulceration caused, 
we believe, by the roots not supplying sap sufficient to maintain the 
growth of the Vine. More warmth to the roots and a regular supply to 
them of weak tepid manure water might remove the mischicf. 


ConVERTING A FRAME Pit 1nTo A House (An Old Subscriber).—We 
would seriously advise you, as a yearly tenant, to have nothing to do with 
brick walls or other fixtures on the ground to which you would like to 
“move, without a written signed agreement with the landlord. Not being 
in the nursery trade, you would have no right to move a brick afterwards. 
In many cases you could not move the woodwork. A friend of ours put 
up a nice greenhouse vinery against the end of his dwelling-house, and 
though as a yearly tenant he is not likely to be disturbed, he has taken 
legal advice, and finds that when he leaves he must leave the house 
behind him. This, we think, is extreme, but it just shows that a tenant, 
to make himself safe, should have the consent of his landlord in writing 
to move or sell, on his changing his residence. We are not sure if we 
thoroughly comprehend your pit further than this, that it is formed out of 
a cistern 27 inches below the ground level, through which a flue runs, that 
the back of the pit is 80 inches above the ground, and 19 inches above it 
in front, width in the clear 5 feet 7 inches, from outside to outside 6} feet, 
length four sashes of 39 inches each, by 6 feet 7 inches. In this place 
there is a difficulty in keeping the finer Geraniums in winter, though 
Zonals do well. The sides of the pit are formed of double lines of spruce 


boards 4 inches apart, the space between filled with coal ashes to keep | 


-out frost, and we presume some sort of wall-plate to keep the ashes dry. 
Ashes, if dry, are not bad for the purpose, but sawdust is better, and such 
-double boards well packed with sawdust in the interval would keep out 
more frost than a 14-inch wall. We have no objection to your widening the 
place so as to make a little house of it, quite the reverse, and if the flue 
goes along the pit or cistern now we would let it remain, and bring it 
back in the pathway behind. A good stout tile would make the top of the 
‘flue and part of the pathway too. Neither have we any objection to your 
having hanging upright lights in front, but all these will add greatly to 
the expense. You might also raise your present back wall, say to 64 or 
7 feet, high enough to walk under, and remove the present board wall in 
Zront, so as to give the necessary width wanted, adding fresh glass to 
the length of rafter. But keeping your position and economy in view, 
this is what we would advise, merely premising that instead of a hipped 
roof, you might have a regular span if you liked by increasing the width. 
As you have a pit, we would leave it alone. The flue going beneath we 
would set boards across for plants, and we would have a hotbed when we 
diked. Then on blocks of wood, ora layer of bricks, we would lay down 
sills for the new house, 5 inches square, and mortice into them upright 
Studs 3} inches square ; those in front to be 3} feet in height, those at 
back 5} feet in height, width from9 feet across. Have a ridge-board sup- 
ported at each end, and one stud in the centre. Have the ridge-board so 
‘as to receive your sashes in front on rafters, these sashes to be move- 
able at back. Finally have a hipped roof of fixed glass, leaving beneath 
the ridge-board from 6 to7 feet. Three-quarter-inch boards screwed to 
“these studs on each side, and sawdust between, would make excellent 
walls. Even single-inch boards, well seasoned and tongued, would do. 
‘Painted with anticorrosion inside and outside, they would stand a long 
time; and when you wanted to remove them, you could take all down in 
-a short time and pack in small compass. For a hipped roof in such a 
little place we would have sashbars, say 15 inches apart, 14 inch by 
2 inches, and grooves for the glass, not to be puttied but packed from 
beneath ; and if there was not a flue we would not have one, but havea 
small iron stove with a flat top, and thus be altogether independent of 
‘bricks and mortar. 

CLIANTHUS DaMPIERI CuLTURE (Lantana).—As you have frequently 
failed we give the essentials of culture. The seeds should be sown 
“singly in small pots, and be just covered with fine soil. Place the pots 
in a warm greenhouse or intermediate house, on a shelf in a light, airy 
position, just keeping the soil moist. The seeds should be sown in May. 
if sown earlier they may be placed in a Cucumber or other frame, and 
for some weeks be plunged in a bottom heat not exceeding 75°, whence 
they should be removed to a warm genial greenhouse or intermediate 
house. Shift the young plants into pots two sizes larger as soon as the 
roots show round the sides of the ball, and this shifting into larger pots 
should be persisted in until the plants are in their blooming pots. In 
winter a temperature of from 45° to 50° is most suitable, and in summer 
a cool, well-ventilated greenhouse and a light position are necessary. 
Water only sufficiently to keep the soil moist, but allow it to become dry 
Sefore watering. Employ a compost of two parts turfy hazel or yellow 


loam, one part fibrous but sandy peat, and half a part each of silver 
sand, charcoal in pieces from the size of a pea to that of a hazel nut, and 
leaf soil, the whole well mixed and incorporated, providing efficient 
drainage. The seed pots should be kept near the light, so that the plants 
may have a short stem from the soil to the first pair of leaves, and in no case 
should this at any after-potting be placed deeper in the soil than it was 
at first. The main cause of the plants’ going off is covering the stems 
too deeply with soil. It is essential that the base of the true stem should 
be exposed in all its stages above the surface of the soil. Inattention to 
this simple point often ends in the plants dying off suddenly at the neck. 


CLIMBER FoR NorTH Waut oF GREENHOUSE (A. 4.).—For the north 


| wall we do not know of anything that would serve you ag a covering 


except Ficus repens. 
with Ferns ? 


UNCONQUERABLE Fiies (Tom Gardner).—As burning sulphur and 
tobacco does not kill them, we cannot suggest a remedy. 


ScaLE oN ORCHARD-HoUsE TrEEs (4. 4.).—The Peach sprays you en- 
closed are severely attacked by the turtle scale, Coccus testudo. Have 
every branch and stem brushed over sedulously with a hard brush, 
and then with a painter’s brush as thoroughly painted over with this 
mixture :—Soft soap, 2 lbs.; flowers of sulphur, 2 lbs.; tobacco, 1 1b.; 
and a wineglass of spirit of turpentine. Mix the sulphur, turpentine, 
and soap into a paste with warm water ; boil the tobacco for an hour in 
a covered saucepan in some more water, strain it, mix it with the soapy 
mixture, and then add enough water to make five gallons. 


Wireworms (4 Subscriber).—A dressing of gas lime will cause them to 
move if it do not destroy them, and yet it is not a safe dressing, as the 
land must remain some time before it will be fit forcropping. Soot ap- 
plied in quantity sufficient to blacken the surface has been found very 
useful, also lime at the rate of 100 bushels per acre. There is nothing to 
equal Carrots and Potatoes asa bait. A few inserted about 2 inches in 
the soil, and examined, will result in a great many of the wireworms 
being destroyed. You think four a great many to be found at a Bean. 
We have this spring taken fourteen from the root ofa Lettuce. They are 
doing serious injury, and in ground like yours recently added to the 
kitchen garden, 


DeEstTRoyING Earwics (J. R. W.).—The best plan is to trap them. The 
traps may be obtained of most nurserymen and seedsmen. Try to poison 
them. Lay fora few nights saucers containing a little honey neur their 
haunts, and if the earwigs take that then mix an equal proportion of 
arsenic with the honey. 


CATERPILLARS ON PEAR TREES (T. Collison).—Your Pear trees are 
probably infested by the caterpillars of Bombyx Neustria, or Lackey 
Moth, which cluster in large numbers beneath a web-like tent. They are 
most easily got rid of in an early stage of their growth; hand-pick and 
nestroy tem. All caterpillars infesting fruit trees should be picked off 

y hand. 


InsEcTS ON PEAR AND BLAcK Currant TREES (G. B. C.).—The flies 
sent (at the present time so abundant on these trees) are the Bibio hor- 
tulana, which are bred in decaying mould, and are not injurious to the 
trees, to which they have resorted to suck up the honied secretion emitted 
by the myriads of aphides with which they are, unfortunately, at present 
so much infested.—I. O. W. 


CATERPILLAR ATTACKING RosEs (4. D. M.).—The caterpillar sent is 
that of the Geometra elinguaria, one of the looper species. It is not 
a usual Rose-eater, but is not very choice in its food.—I. O. W. 

Names oF Prants (G. B. Clarke).—Claytonia perfoliata, native of the 
N.W. coast of North America. It was introduced into England as long 
since as 1796. (H. C. G.).—We cannot name plants from leaves only. 


Could you not have rockwork against it, and plant 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


WHAT POULTRY SHOULD I KEEP?—No. 1. 
BANTAMS. 


In discoursing in a number of papers upon what poultry it is 
best for a person to keep, I begin with Bantams—the smallest 


first, but certainly not in self-esteem, so that if the little birds 


could be consulted, they would think me right, for they would 
say, ‘‘ Bantams first of course.” But I have another reason : this 
is late in May, and the right time to be getting sittings of Ban- 
tams’ eggs, for if hatched earlier than June they would in a few 
generations cease to be Bantams, and become small fowls, ex- 
ceeding diminutiveness being their most essential point. But 
yet, again, the smallest first is the right rule, for in a pro- 
cession the most important personages walk last. So bearing 
this in mind, exhibitors of elongated Ducks, pursy Geese, and 
bloated Turkeys, may be consoled, as their pets are, by com- 
mittees, judges, and reporters, always placed last of all. 

As to Bantams, they are scarcely kept so generally as they 
ought to be, and they could be kept likewise with profit; for 
wherever there is a small yard or garden, and wherever there 
is a family, however few in number, there with the little bits 
and scraps that must always be on plates and dishes, there ac- 
cording to size of premises and family, Bantams may be kept, 
and with profit, too. As says Mr. L. Wright, in ‘‘ The Prac- 
tical Poultry-Keeper,” ‘‘ We believe them to produce quite as 
much for their food as ordinary breeds, but their chief use is 
in the garden, where they eat many slugs and insects with very 
little damage. On this acccunt they may be usefully and pro- 
fitably kept where a separate poultry yard is found impracti- 
cable.” I would add, as a Bantam fancier for life, that no 


June 1, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 391 


breed affords greater amusement and interest, and for a few of 
these birds the expense is nil, while many eggs are the return. 

Bantams have been great favourites in England from our 
forefathers’ time to ours, and favourites they always will be. 
The most ignorant person, poultry-ignorant I mean, who just 
does the poultry tent at the Bath and West of England, or such 
like shows, yet pauses always to notice the pretty little cox- 
combical, bumptious Bantams. My own plan since I have 
lived in my present home, where are no divisions save of 
evergreens between flower garden, kitchen garden, and yard, is 
to give them liberty from September to March all day long. In 
March, when the seeds are just sown, it is better to keep them 
in a little wire enclosure ; just a little house of any kind, and 
a wired space of a few feet or yards square will do. If into this 
you throw some of the mowings of the lawn, and an odd bit of 
green food now and then, and supply them with a morning’s 
meal of corn, and dinner-plate scrapings in the middle of the 
day, the little creatures will do wonderfully well, having, of 
<ourse, clean water and a dust bath. If quite at liberty mine 
seem to despise corn, but then their range is very large in 
shrubberies and park, and the supply from the kitchen is also 
considerable. During the spring I let them out at four or five 
o’clock in the afternoon, when they attack the manure heap, and 
then walk the lawn, and are off to bed before they can do 
mischief to the seeds. In rainy weather I let them out all day, 
for when the ground is wet they can do no possible damage, 
even in the flower garden, while they can and do surprise many 
a caterpillar, and grub,and worm. As the summer advances I 
give them more and more liberty. A little Bantam hen or two 
about with chickens is always doing gcod in clearing the ground 
of insects, and in late summer and the rest of the year, and on 
to the next March, I am sure Bantams only do good. This has 
been my plan for years, and I inherited a garden overrun with 
slugs, but they have disappeared long ago. 

Thus, having shown that the little things only do good if 
rightly managed, and afford infinite amusement, I would say 
further that exhibitors of large fowls may with advantage 
make Bantams their second horse; there will be no crossing of 
breeds, and the carriage is trifling. 

To come now to varieties. The feather-legged speckled 
Bantams of the last century are, I fear, nearly extinct. I saw 
some in a back street at Portsmouth in 1853, near a bird shop, 
and one pen, I think, I remember at the Birmingham Show in 
1865. These I apprehend were the Bantams which Horace 
Walpole kept, as Peter Cunningham in his interesting sketch 
of his life, placed at the beginning of the complete edition of 
his letters, tells us that the lord of Strawberry Hill might be 
seen in the morning walking about feeding his Bantams. 
‘These birds I well remember a few old gentlemen, somewhere 
about 1830 and a few years later, used to take great delight 
in. About that time, as far asI can recollect, Bantams were 
talked of as either feather-legged or smooth-legged, the latter 
being the Nankin Bantams. Exhibitions there were then 
none, but I knew many ardent Bantam-fanciers ; almost all 
were tradesmen in a country town, who had small backyards 
adjoining, perhaps a stable. The Nankins were in those days 
much the prettiest, save, of course, the Sebrights, which were 
searce; the contrast of feather was pretty—Nankin body and 
the dark hackle and tail. These yellow Bantams are now 
seldom seen, and yet they have had their share in aiding in 
producing two beautiful varieties, first the Sebright, and 
secondly the more modern Game Bantam. The old feather- 
legged and the Nankin did well in a very moderate range, es- 
pecially the former, who were less active. There were also 
Partridge Bantams with yellow legs, and I think the cock hen- 
tailed. I have seen in inferior breeds of Game Bantams clear 
traces of the Partridge cross in the breast and wings. I have 
no recollection whatever of an old class of Black Bantams, but 
there were White ones, both feather-legged and clear-legged, 
but large and inferior in colour to our modern birds. 

Next—and what a next !—the elegant-plumaged bird manu- 
factured by the late Sir John Sebright, and known by his name. 
These were for a time a rage, and put all other Bantams to 
flight in the esteem of fanciers. Never was a greater triumph 
in feather culture, and if the Germans can boast, as they 
reasonably may, of resplendent Toy Pigeons of their manu- 
facture, Englishmen can point to the Sebright Bantam and the 
Almond Tumbler. The Sebright fancy is one which should 
slot be suffered to go down. Bantams are especially ladies’ 
pets, and the Sebright, from its beautiful feathering, and the 


Special skill ladies have in colour and in markings, should be 
the ladies’ bird. A lady with a fair command of money might | 


do wonders with these birds, and produce a sight which would 
gratify hundreds, I mean a display of Sebrights on a large 
scale. They do not require much space, but stock birds—that 
is, male birds, must be kept in addition to exhibition birds. 
Ladies, I know, object to Game Bantams because of the dub- 
bing, but this objection does not exist in regard to Sebrights. 
When just hatched they are, perhaps, the most beautiful of all 
chickens. 

The above-mentioned varieties were, as far as I know, the 
only Bantams which were kept before the advent of poultry 
shows. There soon came the smaller and better-bred Whites, 
now far too much neglected, for nothing is prettier than half 
a dozen spotless White Bantams ona lawn. There came, too, 
very quickly into fashion the hardy, well-looking, and ex- 
tremely intelligent Black Bantams, the cocks of which are as 
handsome as any bird that crows, with their bright rose combs, 
flowing hackles, and arched tails, and white deaf ears, and zich 
purple hues not unlike those of a Barb Pigeon. I can speak 
from much experience of their excellence as layers and not 
strayers; as layers, these and Black-breasted Reds bear the bell. 

Next in order of time, in production and exhibition, come the 
Game Bantams. These were a great gain to the fancy world, 
and in the best specimens not very numerous, but I mean such 
as Mr. Crosland exhibits, they are the ditto of the Game fowl— 
symmetry, colour, legs, expression of countenance, and even 
attitudes. I have seen also fairly good Brown-breasted and 
Duckwings. Whether it is from association or English feeling, 
we all like to look at a Game cock, however disliking cock- 
fighting ; and these little birds, reproducingin duodecimo the old 
favourites, have pleased, do please, and will continue to please 
thousands of English people. All other Bantams have rightly 
the thick bantamy form, they are like thick-set Shetland 
ponies, while the Game Bantams are like slim racing ponies. 
Eyen the last introduced, the Japanese Bantams, have the 
thick shape, while they look over-combed, and resemble little 
men with too large hats. c 

Thus have I passed in review the different varieties of this 
beautiful class of poultry, and I should be very gratified if any- 
thing I have said should increase the number of their admirers. 
Ihave shown that Bantams may be kept by anyone in any 
garden or yard however small, suiting, of course, numbers to 
means of accommodation. Bantams, especially the two va- 
rieties I have noticed, produce abundance of eggs, and the 
pullets both of the Black and Game are excellent winter layers. 
Some people object to the small size of Bantam eggs, that fool- 
ish though oft-repeated objection, because it is not quite easy 
to eat two, three, or four, if you like. There is no law against 
that that Iam aware of, no act of parliament that has been 
passed in my time, and everybody knows that the best half of 
an egg is the first half, it is hottest, and best-tasting, and witb 
Bantams’ eggs it is but as it were a series of first halves, and 
such flavour, too! Then, again, the great abundance of de- 
licious eggs greatly pacify our materfamiliases (vulgo our mis- 
susses) who are apt to scream if they see a little Bantam scratch- 
ing—no, lightening the soil I callit, of a flower bed; but a pretty 
little egg, literally or figuratively, stops a pretty little mouth very 
effectually. Young ladies can easily get sittings of eggs, the 
pater always allows you such things, for I have always noticed 
that fathers are never selfish or uncivil to their daughters, 
though too often so to their sons. This, perhaps, is the reason 
why if sons turn out badly it is rarely the mothers (God bless 
them) who are to blame, but the fathers have been in fault, 
not making friends of their sons, trying to rule by terror and 
not affection, as if the heart were not the most powerful thing 
of all. A tyrant father naturally produces a deceitful, un- 
loving child. To return, never allow a Bantam cock to be 
teased or fought with by a servant boy; if so thrash both bird 
and boy at once, send one off breathless, the other blubbering, 
and both will be cured. ; 

All Bantams sit well, and are good mothers. The dubbing 
of the Game must I fear be continued, and the bird not being 
in the least depressed or daunted by it shows that it does not 
suffer much. Cut close with stable scissors, and have the 
kitchen dredge-box at hand, and dust the place well with flour, 
and henceforth your bird cannot be taken at a disadvantage by 
any chance adversary. Keep Bantams as pets; exhibitors, 
adopt one variety as a second horse. Choose your variety ac- 
cording to your individual taste.—WiLTsHIRE Rector. 


MancuestEr AND Liverroon AGRICULTURAL Socrery’s SHow. 
—The prizes offered at the Show of this Society to be held at 


92 


ew 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 1, 1871. 


Liverpool on September 6th and 7th, amount to the large sum 
of £3000. We will only specify two—£100 for the best hunter, 
and £80 for the best bull. There is also a very liberal prize 
list for Poultry, first prizes £4, second £3, and third £2. From 
the exertions made by the Local Executive Committee, we are 
informed it promises to be the most successful show ever held 
in the north. 


HATCHING DISASTERS. 


As I have learnt many ‘wrinkles’ from Mr. Wright’s 
letters, I hope that I shall be able to make him some slight 
return on the above subject. Before doing so, however, I may 
remark that my early eggs were this season very bad indeed, 
but the severe winter led me to expect this; later in the season 
the eggs were nearly all good. 

The plan which I adopt with my sitting hens is this. I have 
a cellar, into which the frost cannot penetrate, and which I 
keep in total darkness. Even in the coldest weather, by this 
method, I find a hen may be off her eggs for a couple of hours 
without much harm; but should it unfortunately happen that 
a hen comes off and the eggs are cold, I at once put them into 
a bowl of warm water, and as soon as they are nicely warm I 
put them back to the hen or to another hen, and they rarely 
fail to hatch. On one side of this dark cellar I place a lot of 
Turner’s pens, and in ea h I make a nest andsetahen. By 
these means the hens never get together to fight, and the dark- 
ness generally preyents them from coming off their nests. 
My experience leads me to the conclusion that hens, especially 
strange ones, which all mine are, sit betterin the dark. Every 
morning candles are taken down, and the hens are fed by 
candlelight, and it is astonishing how soon they learn to come 
off when the light is brought to them. Generally they require 
lifting off the nest the first day or two, but after that they 
rirely want any more inviting than the light. As soon as they 
have all fed and gone back to their nests, the light is taken 
from them, and they are, as before, in total darkness. To pre- 
vent any unpleasant smell I throw a disinfectant on the floor 
of the cellar, and a little dry earth is occasionally sprinkled on 
the bottom of the pens where the hens are. 

But haying detailed the plan of setting I adopt, I must also 
s2y that every hour, from early in the morning to the last 
thing at night, some one just walks with a candle through the 
cellar and sees that all the hens are sitting closely. On read- 
ing this I fancy I hear some of your readers say, ‘‘ What a 
bore! Who would breed poultry to be at this trouble?” My 
answer is, That what is worth doing at all is worth doing well, 
and when my chickens on the average make at the lowest com- 
putation £1 each, I think it well worth the trouble. Had Mr. 
Wright used the same plan, the accident which happened to 
his eggs could not, I think, have occurred.—T. E. Ket. 


BATH AND WEST OF ENGLAND SOCIETY’S 
SHOW AT GUILDFORD. 


AttHoucH held simultaneously with the Show at Stroud, this meet- 
ing proved as successful as any of its predecessors. A great improve- 
ment has this year been instituted—viz., haying the poultry and 
Pigeons received on the Monday and judged on the Tuesday morning, 
instead, as heretofore, haying them sent in on the Saturday for adju- 
dication on the Monday. This new arrangement saves the poultry 
two days’ confinement; and doubtless had this change been more 
generally known, the great access of entries would have afforded the 
best proof possible that the altered arrangement was duly appreciated 
by amateurs generally. Another season’s trial will convince the 
Council that this policy will greatly extend the poultry department of 
the Show, for it was a matter of general congratulation among the 
exhibitors. 

Spanish fowls were well shown; and Mr. Edward Jones, of Bristol, 
sent pens that would be a great credit to any exhibition, the single 
cock of this variety being a remarkably perfectspecimen. Mr. Martin’s 
well-known rosy-combed pen headed the Dor/i:ings, and the Blue and 
the White Dorking classes were alsogood. Cochins were mostly shown 
yery considerably out of plumage, and the Brahmas likewise generally 
lacked condition. Mr. Mathews’s collection of Game fowls was sent 
in particularly high show trim, and his pens stood well on the prize 
list. Hamburghs were fewer than might have been expected, but still 
most of them were excellent. Polish were never before shown so well 
at this Society’s meeting, the Silver and Black varieties being present 
in abundance, and of first-rate quality. Though the Créve-Cewrs 
were really good, the Houdans were far behind what we have seen in 
past years. A most capital pen of Andalusians was first in the 
Variety class, Black Cochins second, and a pen of Malays third. Some 
extraordinarily good Sebright Bantams were on view; aud the Ducks 


. Stowmarket. 


and Geese, with Mrs. Seamons and Mr. Fowler at the fore, made this 
portion of the Show most interesting. Mr. Lythall was firstin Turkeys 
with the grand American Birmingham show bird, which it appears, 
although breeding freely this season, has greatly increased in weight- 
A large class of very good Turkeys, both Cambridge and Norfolk, were 
much admired. 

In Pigeons the Carriers were unusually good, and the Short-faced 
Tumblers and Pouters not less so. The Red Jacobins were also of far 
better and sounder colour than common. 

The birds were all arranged in a single tier, and the pens being of 
wood throughout, excepting the fronts, the plumage of the various 
specimens was secured from injury of any kind. Lovely weather 
brought together an immense number of visitors, and the Guildford 
Show will be noted among the many successes of the Bath and West 
of England Society. 


Spanisu.—l, E. Jones, Clifton, Bristol. 2, Mrs. E. J. Elrington, Selling, 
EAT eta aa 3, H. Beldon, Goitstock, Bingley. he, Nichols, Brothers, Cam- 

erwell. 

DorrrwcGs.—Coloured.—1, J. Martin, Claines, Worcester. 2,J.Goring, Wiston 
Park, Steyning. 3, Lieut-Col. Lane, Bracknell. he, G. H. Langford, Sher- 
borne, Albury, Guildford; J. Smith, Shillinglee Park, Petworth; Lord Turnour, 
Shillinglee Park, Petworth ; Lieut.-Col. Lane. c, W.B. Boxall, Strathfieldsaye. 

Dorenes.—Blue—i and 2, G. Hine, Westcott, Dorking. 3, W. Philps, 


Cocutn-Cuina.— Brown and Partridgeyteathered.—l, J. K, Fowler. 2, C. 
Howard, Peckham. 3, Horace Lingwood, Needham Market. Z 

Cocurn-Cuinas. — White—1, E. Fearon, Whitehaven. 2, G. Shrimpton 
Leighton Buzzard. 3, S.A. Wyllie, East Moulsey. 2 

Branwa Poorras.—Dark.—l, J. K. Fowler. 2, Horace Lingwood, 3, W. 
Sims, Stroud. 

Branwa Pootras.— Light.—l and 2, H. M. Maynard, Holmewood, Isle o 
Wight. 3,J.Pares, Guildford. he, J. Morton, Guildford; C. W. Croft, Kings- 
kerswell, Newton Abbott. 

Gawe.—Black-breasted and other Reds.—1, S. Matthew, Stowmarket. 2, Rey. 
G. S. Cruwys, Tiverton. 3, J. Hodson, Weyside, Godalming. 

Game.—Duckwings and other Greys or Blues.—1, S. Matthew. 2, Rey. G. S- 
Cruwys. 8, Withheld. 

Gasre.— Any other Colour, S. Matthew. 2, G. Potts, Chartham, Canter- 
bury. 3, Rev G.S.Cruwys. c, W. Wells, Worplesdon, Guildford. 

Hawecrcus.—Golden-pencilled.—1, H. Beldon. 2, Rey. J. Richardson, Sandy 
Rectory, Bedfordshire. 3, G. Hine. 

Haxweurcus.—Silver-pencilled—1, N. Barter, Plymouth. 2, H. Beldon. 
3, C. H. Mayo, Puddle Hinton. 

HawevrGHs.—Golden-spangled.—l, Mrs. J. Pattison, Dorchester. 2, H. 
Beldon. 3, W. H. Tomlinson, Newark. r 

HamMBurGus. — Silver-spangled.—l, H. Beldon. 2, Miss E. Browne, Chard- 
leigh Green, Chard. 3,H.M. Maynard. c, Mrs. Allsopp; G. Slade, Crewkerne. 

PorisH.—Black, with White Crests—1, Mrs. Procter, Hull. 2, T.P. Edwards, 
Lyndhurst. he, T. P. Edwards; D. Mutton, Brighton. . 

PorisH.—Gold or Silver—1, H. Beldon. 2, J. Hinton, Warminster. 3, Mrs. 
Procter. : 

CREVE-Cetrs.—l, Rey. N. J. Ridley, Newbury. 2. G. Chilton, Littleton, 
Guildford. 3,J.K. Fowler. c,J.J.Malden, Biggleswade. 

Hovpans.—l, F. Brewer, Milltown. Lostwithiel. 2, G. Slade. 8,J.K. Fowler. 

Mryorca Fown.—l, H. Leworthy, Newport, Barnstaple. 2, Miss S. H. North- 
cote, Upton Pyne, Exeter. 3, No competition. 

ANY CTHER VaRIETY.—1, W. Wildey, Cosham. 2, H. J. Godfrey, Hammer- 
smith. 3,J. Hinton, Warminster. hc, J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury; J. ¥. Hadden, 
Guildown, Guildford; Rev. N. J. Ridley, Newbury; S.A. Wyllie, East Monulsey. 


SINGLE COCKS. ‘ 
SpantsH.—l, E. ‘Jones, Clifton, Bristol. 2, R. Wright, London. he, J. K- 


Fowler. z 
Dorecs.—Grey.—l, J. Chisman, Rownkams, Southampton. 2, J. Smith. 
2, G. 


he, J. Smith; J. Martin. Claines. __ : 
DerENcs.—Blue or White.1, Miss Fairhurst, Woodlands, Ormskirk. 
Hine, Westcott, Dorking. 3, W. Attlee, Dorking. c, W. Messenger, Wood- 
lands-Wonersh, Guildford. : e 
Cocuts-Cutnas.—l, J. Watts, King’s Heath. 2, Horace Lingwood, Creeting, 
Needham Market. 3, H. Tomlinson, Moseley, Birmingham. he, D. W. J- 
Thomas, Ely Cottage, Brecon (2); J. Chisman, Rownhams, Southampton. 
c, Mrs. Allsopp, Hindlip Hall, N 2 
Brauma Pootra—-l, Rey. N. J. Ridley, Newbury. 2, J. H. Cuff, Holloway. 
8, J. Watts. £ 
4 Gamwe.—Black-bréasted and other Reds.—1, R. Hall, Cambridge. 2, S. Matthew, 
c, Rey. G. S. Cruwys, Tiverton. 
Game.—Any other Colour.—l, S. Matthew, Stowmarket. 2, Rey. G. Ss. Cruwys. 
8, R. Hall, Cambridge. c, Miss M. Blackmore, Alresford; Miss S. H. Northcote. 
Hawpurcus.—Pencilled.—1, H. Beldon. 2, J. K. Fowler. 3, Cc. H. Mayo, 
Puddle Hinton, Dorchester. 2 
Hampurcus.—Spangled.—l, Mrs. J. Pattison, Dorchester. 2, Miss E. Browne~ 
Chard. 8, H. Beldon. he, N. Barter, Plymouth. c, J. Newick, Hinton Saint 


George: a Gold or Silver-laced—1, G. F. Hodson, North Petherton, Bridge- 
water. 2and38, Rev. G. S. Cruwys. 


Bantams.—Black or White—1 and 2, Rey. G. S. Cruwys. 3, H. M. Maynard, 
Holmewood, Ryde, Isle of Wight. c, Mrs.E. J. Elrington, Selling, Faversham. 
BanTaus.—Game.—l, C. Howard, Peckham, 2, C. J. Spary, Ventnor, Isle of 
Wight. 3 and he, T. W. Anns. c,J. Pares. : 
Bantams.—Cock, Any Variety.—1, W. Adams, Ipswich. 2, C. Parsons, Corn- 
hill, Dorchester. 3, A. Crafer, Sutton. r E. 2 
CREVE-C&Ur ok Hovpan.—l, Rey. N. J. Ridley, Newbury. 2 and 3, No 
competition. 
PouisH.—l, H. Beldon. 2,D.Mutton. 8, Mrs, Procter. 
ANY CaER IS NEE Rey. N. J. Ridley. 2, J. Hinton. 
c, W. Wildey, Cosham. 
"Docks —Aylesbury.—1 and 3, Mrs. Seamons, Hartwell, Aylesbury. 
he, J. K. Fowler. - 
Ducks.—Rouen—l, Mrs. Seamons. 2, J. Pares, Guildford. 3, J. K. Fowler 
he, W. B. Stubbs, Alresford; J. K. Fowler. c, G. Cubitt, M.P., Dorking. 
Ducxs.—Any other Variety.—1, J. K. Fowler. 2, S. B. Kennard, Marnhull, 
Blandford. 38, J. Goring, Steyning 
GEESE.—1!, Mrs. Seamons. 2, . Fowler. 3, W. Attlee. q 
TurKEYs.—l, F. Lythall, Banbury. 2, Rey.N.J. Ridley. 8, J. Goring. he, G. 
Ellis, Betchworth, Reigate; Mrs. Mayhew, Great Baddow, Chelmsford. 


PIGEONS. 

Carrrers. — Cock.—1, J. C. Ord, Pimlico. 2, HW. M. Maynard, Ryde. 
he, H. Yardley, Birmingham; J.C. Ord. Hen.—l, J. C. Ord. 2, H. M. Maynard. 
he, H. Yardley; J. C. Ord. e 

Pournrs.—Cock.—1, H. Yardley. 2, P. H. Jones, Fulnam. Hen.—1, P. H. 
Jones. 2, H. Yardley. 


8, H. Beldon. 
2 and 


June 1, 1871. ] 


Runts.—l, P. H. Jones. 2, S. A. Wyllie, East Moulsey. 
Hingston Hill. c, H. Yardley. 

TumBtERS (Almond).—1 and 2, J. Ford, London. 

TUMBLERS (Any other variety)—1, F. Moore, Burnley. 
dé, J, Ford. 


he, Lady F. Bushby, 


2, P. H. Jones. 


JacoBins.—1, C. Bulpin, Bridgwater, 2, H. M. Maynard. ¢, Miss J. Mil- | 


ward, Newton St. Loe. 

Fanrtatts.—l, W. H. Tomlinson, Newark. 2, H.M. Maynard. hc, P.H. Jones. 
¢, H. Yardley; C. Bulpin; Miss J. Milward. 

Owzs.—l, P.H. Jones. 2, C. Bulpin. he, H. Yardley. 

TRUMPETERS.—1, P. H. Jones. 2, C. Bulpin. 

Barss—l, H. Yardley. 2, J. C. Ord; Extra 2, H. M. Maynard. 
Maynard; P. H. Jones. 

Turpits.—l, H. Yardley. 2, P. H. Jones. 

Nuns.—Prizes withheld, all being trimmed. 

Dracoons.—l, H. Yardley. 2, J. Watts, King’s Heath. he, C. Bulpin. c, H. M. 
Maynard. 

ARCHANGELS.—I, C. Bulpin. 2, H. Yardley. 

ANY OTHER VARIRTY NOT PREVIOUSLY MENTIONED.—1 and 2, C. Bulpin. 3, H. 
Yardley. lic,H. Yardley; Mrs. E. M. Paget, Hoxne, Scole, Suffolk (2). 


Mr. Edward Hewitt, of Birmingham, judged the poultry, and Mr. 
Tegetmeier the Pigeons. 


he, H. M. 


STROUD POULTRY SHOW. 


Tus Show was held on May 30th and 3ist, and proved highly suc- 
cessful, there being upwards of 1200 entries. The following is the list 
9° awards :— 


Dorxincs.— Colowred.— Cock.—land Cup, L. Patton. 2, Hon. H. Fitzwilliam 
8, J. Martin. Hezs.—1 and Cup, L. Patton. 2, F. Parlett. 8, W. Arkwright, 
duc, Rey. A. Cornwall; T. A. Dean; Mrs. Hurt; L. Patton. 

Dorgwes.—Silver-G ey.— Cock.—1, 0. E. Cresswell. 2, T. Ace. Hens.—l, 0. E. 
Cresswell. 2, W. E. George. 


Cocutns.—Cinnamon and Buff.— Cock.— Cup and 2, W. A. Taylor. 8, H 
Lacy. he, H. Lloyd, jun.; J. Sichel. Hens.—land Cup, A. Taylor. 2, H. Lacy. 


3 Wa Sealey he, G. Heath ; W. Ryland; H. Lacy; J.Sichel; J. Cattell. c, W. 
vland. 

Cocurns.—Brown H. 
Lacy. 3,G. Lamb. Hens.—1, W. A. Taylor. 
2, J. Stephens. 


and_ Partridge-coloured.—Cock.—1, E. Tudman. 2, 
he, J. Stephens; J. N. C. Pope. 
8, H. Lacy. he, R. B. Wood. 


Cocaixs.—White.—Cock.—1, H. Dent. 2 and3, J.N. W. Whitehead. he, W. 
E. George. Hens.—l, J. Sichel. 2, Mrs. A. Williamson. 3, E. Fearon. 
Branmas.—Dark —Cock.—1 and Cup, H. Lacey. 2, J. Stalker. 8, Rev. J. 


Richardson. he, Rev. J. W. Bowen; J. S. Tainton; W. H. Denison; H. Wells. 

¢, O. R. Davies; L. Wright; R. H. Tyte. Hens—1l and Cup, Mrs. Hurt. 2, J. 

Siches 3, H. Lacy. he, T. Griffiths; Hon. Miss D. Pennant; H. Lacy. c, H. 
rrell. 

Branmwas.—Light.—Cock.—1, Mrs. A. Williamson. 2, H. M. Maynard. 3, J. 
Beach. he, Mrs. A. Worthington: J. Bloodworth; C. ¥. Wilson; W. Whiteley. 
2, Mrs. A. Williamson. 3,J.R. Rodbard. 
he, T. Ace; E. 


Hens.—l1, T. A. Dean. 

SpanisH.—Cock.—Cup, 1, and 8, E. Jones. 2, Mrs. Allsop. 

Jones; C. Taylor. c, J. F. Sillitoe. Hens—Cup and 1, E. Jones. 2, T. Bam- 
field. 3,H.Lane. he, T. Bamfield; E. Jones (2); J.F. Dixon; Nicholls, Bros., 
Boulton &Gliddon. c, E. J. W. Shalford; J. R. Rodbard. 

Hovpans.—Cock.—l, R. R. Wood. 2, J. Weeks. 8, D. Lane. c, F. Brewer. 
Hens.—1, R. B. Wood. 2, Hills & Co. 8,D.Lane. he, F. Brewer. 

Crevr-Ceéurs.—Cock.—Cup and 1, W. R. Park. 2, J. Sichel. 3, H. Wynd- 
ham. Hens.—Cup andl, H. Wyndham. 2, R.B. Wood. 3,J.J. Walter. he, H. 
Beldon. c, W. Dring. 

Game (Black-breasted Reds).—Cock.—1, R. Hall. 2,E. Brough. 8, J. Mason. 
he, G. R. Smith ; H. Gibson; W.E. Oakley. c, H. W. Julian. Hen.—Cup and 
LISS EOE 2,G. Lucas. 8, R.Stook. hc, Hon. and Rey. F. Dutton; Miss M. 

etcher. 

Game.—Brown-breasted Reds——Cock.—1 and Cup, H. M. Julian. 2, A. Ashley. 
3, W. Boyes. he, G. Clements. c, Miss M. Fletcher (2). Hens.—1, S. Matthew. 
2,H.M. Julian. 3,J.Jekin. he, G.R. Smith; W. Boyes. 

GamE.—Duckwings and other Greys and Blues.—Cock—l, S. Matthew. 2, H. 
Julian. 3, W. Boyes. hc, Miss M. Fletcher; G. S. Sainsbury; J. H. Bradwell. 
Hen—i, S. Matthew. 2,H.M. Julian. 8, Miss M. Fletcher. he, E. Bell. 

Hampurcus.—Golden-spangled.—Cock.—1 and Cup, H. Beldon. 2, C. Parsons, 
3, J. Buckley. he, H. Pickles, jun. Hens—1,J. Buckley. 2, H. Beldon. 3, Miss 
M. Newton. he, S. & R. Ashton ; E. Collings; J. Bairstow: E. T. Gardom. 

HanpureGus.—Silver-spangled.—Cock.—1, H. Beldon. 2, H. Pickles, jun. 3, H. 
Beldans ea and Cup, H. Beldon. 2,H.Pickles, jun. 8, Miss M. Newton. 
<, J. Watis. 

Hampurcus.—Golden-pencilled.—Cock.—1, H. Beldon. 2, H. Pickles, jun. 
3, W. Speakman. ic, B. Mollett. Hens.—i, Rev.J. Richardson. 2, H. Pickles, 
jun. 3,H.Beldon. he, C. Bloodworth. 

Hampurcus.— Silver-pencilled.— Cock.—1, W. Moor-Mann. 2, H. Beldon. 
3, H. Pickles, jun. Hens —1, W.Moor-Mann. 2, H. Pickles, jun. 3, H. Beldon. 

Hampurcus.—Black.—Cock.—1 and $8. D. Lord. 2, H. Beldon. ’ c, Rev. W. 
Serjeantson. Hens.—1,T. Bush. 2, T. Walker, jun. 8, W. Collyer. 

PoxisH.—Golden-spangled.—Cock.—1, M. Nicholls. 2, W. Silvester. 3, W. 
Harvey. Hens—Cup, H. Beldon. 2, W. Harvey. 8 and he, W. K. Patrick. 
¢, W. K. Patrick; H. Beldon. 

PoxrisH.—Silver-spangled.—Cock.—Cup, H. Pickles, jun. 2, H. Beldon. 8, G. 
C. Adkins. Hens.—l, H. Beldon. 2 and 8, C. Bloodworth. 

PouisH.—Black with White Crest—Cock.—1, T. Dean. 2, T. P. Edwards. 

3, T. Wilson 


Hens.—l, T. Dean. 2and8, T. P. Edwards. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—Cock.—1, J. Sichel (Pekin Bantam). 

(Black Cochin); Hon. C. Fitzwilliam (La Fléche). Hens—i, F. Wilton (place 
Cochins). 2, Mrs. Llewellyn (White Sultans). 8, J. Sichel(Pekin Bantams). ¢,J. 
Hinton (Malays); R. Loft (Sultans): J. Watts (Sultans): Lady Gwydyr (Silkies). 

Bantams (Game).—Black-breasted Reds.—Cup, J. C. GE. Newbitt. 2, J. Mayo. 
3, W. Adams. he, T. W. Anns; J. R. Robinson; J. Mayo: E. Payne; Williams 
and Straw; J.C. SE. Newbitt; G. Smith. Brown-breasted Reds.—1, S. Beighton. 
2, Rev. F. Cooper. 3,J.C. &E. Newbitt. Any other Variety.—land 2, J. C. and 
BE. Newhbitt. 3, J. Pearson. 

Bantaus.— White Clean-legged.—i, H. Beldon. 2,A. G. Bloodworth. 3, Rey. 
G.S. Cruwys. 

Bantaus.—Black Clean-legged.—l, S. & R. Ashton. 2, J. Mayo. 3, J. K. 
Robinson. he, T. Bush; J. Watts; Miss C. Cannan. 

Bantaus.—Gold and Silver Sebrights—Cup and 2, M. Leno. 8, Rey. G.S. 
Cruwys. c, H. Yardley; Miss J. M. Frew. 

Sprcran SELLING Ciass.—Cock.—l, T. A. Dean oes Brahma). 2, E. Brown 
(Spanish). 8, H. Thompson (Gold Hamburgh). he, H. Yardley; W. A. Barnett 
(Buff Cochins)._ Hens.—l and 2, H. Yardley. 3, J. Sichel. 

Ducks.—White Aylesbury.—1, Mrs. Seamons. 2, J. K. Fowler. 8,E. Leech. 
he, G. Hanks; J. K. Fowler. c, Mrs. Seamons. 

Ducks.—Rouen.—1, E. Leech. 2,1. Patten, 8, W. H. Denison. 

Ducxs.—Black Last Indian.—l, Rev. W. Serjeantson. 2, W. E. George. 8, W. 
Pratt. he, G. Sainsbury (2). 


Docks.—Any other -Variety.—l, M. Leno (Mandarins). 2, Rev. W. Richardson H 


(Carolinas). 8, J.K. Fowler; he, S. S. Dickinson, M.P. (Muscovy). 


SrLuine Cuass.—], G. Hanks (Aylesbury). 2, W. Stephens (Rouen). 3, H. | 


Dowsett (Rouen). 
Matays.—Cocks.—l, Rey. A.G. Brooke. 2, W. B. Payne. Hens.—l, Rev. A. 
G. Brooke. 2,J.S. Rooth. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


| 


393 


PIGEONS. 

Carrrers.—Black.—Cock.—l, E. Horner. 2, H. Yardley. 8, R. Fulton. he 
andc, R.Fulton. Hen.—l, E. Horner. 2and 8, R. Fulton. 

CaRRIERS.—Dun.—Cock.—1 and 8, H. Yardley. 2,R. Fulton. Hen.—land 8, 
H. Yardley. 2, R. Fulton. 

PovurErs.—Any Colowr.—Cock.—1 and 8, A. H. Stewart. 2, R. Fulton. he, R. 
Fulton; E. Horner. c, H. Yardley; W. Nottage; T. E. Dew. Hen—l, E. 
Horner. 2and8, R. Fulton. vie, R. Fulton. he, H. Yardley. 
ee TLC cay R. Fulton. 2, T, Waddington. 3, E. Horner. he, H, 

ardley. 

TumBiLErs.—Any other Variety.—1, R. Fulton (Beards). 2, E. Horner (Mottled 
Tumblers). 3, H. Yardley (Tumblers). 4 

JacoBins.—Any Colour.—l and 8, R. Fulton, 2, F. Waitt. 
c, H. Yardley; R. Fulton ; E. Horner. 

Barss.—Any Colour.—l, R. Fulton. 2, J. Russell. 3, E. Horner. hc, R. Fulton, 
c, H. Yardley (2); R. Fulton. Ki 

8, A. M. Yetts. vhe, G. H 


Fantams.—Any Colour—l and 2, H. Yardley. 
Gregory. he, J. T. Loveridge. 

TroumpetTers.—Any Colowr.—l, R. Fulton. 2, T. Waddington. 38, E. Horner. 
he, H. Yardley. 


piee (ENGLIsH).—Any Colour.—1l and 2, Miss E. Cannan. 8, J. Thresh. ¢,R 
ulton. . 

Nons.—l, H. Yardley. 2,E.T. Dew. 8, T. A. Dean. 

Tursits.—Any Colour.—l, E. Horner. 2, G. H. Gregory. 3, E. T. Dew. 
vhe, T. Waddington. he, H. Yardley. é 

Dracoons.—Any Colowr.—l, T. Chambers, jun. 2, T. Waddington. 8, W. 
Bishop. he.T. Waddington. c, A. Easton ; J. Watts. 

Rounts.—Any Colour.—1, H. Boyer, Bourne. 2, H. Yardley. 3, W. Masland. 

ANTWERPs.—Any Colour.—l, E. Horner, Harewood, Leeds. 2, J.H. Bradley, 
Birmingham. 8, R. Fulton. c, H. Yardley. 

ANY OTHER Vatiety.—l, R. Fulton (Pigmy Pouters). 2, W. T. Loder, Bath 
(Ice). 8,G. H. Gregory, Taunton (Ice). he, E. Horner. ‘c, T. Waddington 
2, F. Waitt, Birmingham. 


(Porcelain Ice). 
c, S, Stephens, jun. (Agate Tumblers); F. 


vhe, C. Stephens. 


he, G. H. Gregory. 


SELLING. CLass.—l, R. Barrett. (Trumpeters). 
3, W. 5. Loder (German Toys). 
Waitt ; E. Horner. 

Cup for most points, R. Fulton. 


RABBITS. ” 

Lop-EARED.—Selj-colowred.—l, E. Gravil, jun. 2, A. Easton. 3, J. G. Quick. 
he, C. Leat; J. G. Quick. , > : 

Lop-EaRED.—Black and White or Blue and White.—1, H. Ridley. 2, C. King. 
3, A. Easton. he, J.G. Quick. c, W. Arkwright. | 

Lop-EaRED.—Yellow and White.—1, W. Arkwright. 2, P. Ashton. 8, J. E. 
Palmer. he, A. Easton. c, E. Vaughan. = 

Lop-EaRED.—Tortoiseshelll, A. Easton. 2 and 8, C. King. he and c, E. 
Gravil, jun. , AGE s 

Lop-EaRED.—Grey and White—l, J. Quick. 2,—Gravil, jun. 38, W. Ark- 
wright. he, C. M. Hogg. c, F. Johnstone. 

Hnranayan.—l, J. Boyle, jun. 2, J. Butterworth. 8, H. Cawood. he, J. G. 
Quick ; N. H. Tomlinson. 

Ancora.—l, U. King. 2 andc, R. Barrett, jun. 8,H. Cawood. he, J. Butter- 
worth. A 

SmivER-GREY.—I, A. H. Etches. 2 and he, S.G. Hudson. 8, J. Wigmore. 

ANY OTHER Vanriety.—l, J. Boyle, jun. (Dutch). 2, F. Sabbage (Dutch Blue). 
3, R. Barrett, jun. (Dutch). hc, H. Cawood (Belgian Hare). c,S. G. Hudson 
(Belgian Hare). ‘ 4 

SELLING CLAss.—l and he, C. King. 2, E. Vaughan. 38, J. G. Quick. 

Cup for most points—C. King, St. John’s Wood. 


CANARIES. 

Norwicu.—Clear Yellow.—1 and 2, W. Walter. 8, R. Mackley. vhe, G. 
Barnesby ; Moore & Wynne. c, Moore & Wynne (2). Clear Buj.—t, J. Close. 
2and 8, W. Walter. hc, R. Mackley. vhe, Moore & Wynne. 

Norwicu.—Marked or Variegatid Yellow.—1, 8, and hc, Moore & Wynne: 
2,J. Close, Derby. c, Messrs. Audley, Leicester; R. Mackley, Norwich (2). 
Marked or Variegated Buff—i, J. Close. 2 and he, W. Walter, Winchester. 
8, Moore & Wynne. vhc. J. Spence, Hendon, Sunderland. c, Messrs. Audley. 

Norwicu.—Any other Variety.—l, 2, and 8, Moore & Wynne. he,R. Mackley. 
c, W. Walter. . 

BELGIAN. — Clear Yellow, W. Walter. 8, A. Smith. c, J. Close; R. Mackley. 
Clear Bufi—2. J. Close. 8, W. Walter. Marked or Variegated Yellow.—2, 8S. 
Spinke. Marked or Variegated Busf.—2, J. Close. 

Lizarp.—Golden-spangled.—1 and 2, H. Ashton. 8, R. Mackley. 
ham. Silver-spangled.—l, H. Ashton. 2, R. Mackley. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY.—1 and vic, H.Ashton. 2. J. Close. 3, Moore & Wynne. 

Cup for most points—H. Ashton, Polefield Hall, Prestwich. 


he, E. Lul- 


MULES. 

GoxpFincu.— Variegated Yellow.—1 and 3, H. Ashton. 2, E. Lulham. Va- 
riegated Buff.—l, J. Spence. 2 and hc, H. Ashton. 3, W. Smith. c, W. L. 
Chapman. Dark Jonque—l, A. Webster. 2 and vhc, Moore & Wynne. 3, J. 
Harrison. Dark Mealy.—1, W.L. Chapman, 2, W. Smith. 8, H. Walker. 

Any OTHER VARIETY.—1, A. Webster, jun. 2,J.Spence. 8 and ic, H. Ashton. 
vhe, G. Barnesby ; H. Ashton. 5 : 

SELLING CLass.—l, 2, and 3, Mrs. Admiral Giffard. 


BRITISH BIRDS. __ p 

GoLprixcu.—, W. Arkwright. 2, Capt. C. H. Fisher. e, J. Harrison; W. 
Smith ; R. Mackley. 

BULLFINcH.—1 and 2, W. Walter. c, A. Webster. jun. 7 

Liyyet.—l, J. Spence. 2, J.Harrison. vic, A. Webster, jun. 

SkyLark.—l, J. Harrison. ‘ f 

BLAcKBIRD.—l, J. Edwards, 2, W.Smith. vhc, W. F. Pride. 

Sone THrusH.—1, G. Dommett. 2, W. Smith. 

Wie Ge Were 

OBIN.—2, F. Johnstone. u 

Any OTHER Varrety.—l, A. P. Goulding. 92, A. Webster, jun. vhe, T. A. 

Cokayne; F. Johnstone. hc, W. Smith; W. Walter; R. Mackley. 


abeater or Rose breasted 2; Adams, Stroud 
Cocxaroo.—Leadbeater on Rose-breasted.—2, E. Adams, . 
Parrot.—Grey.—l, Miss M. Webb, Stroud. 2, W. Walter, Winchester. Green 
or any Variety except Grey.—l, H. Lusty, Stroud (Green Parrot). 2, W. Walter 
(King Parret). ; 

Love Brrps.—1, R. Maekley, Norwich. 2 and vhc, W. Walter. 

AUSTRALIAN PARRAKEETS.—1 and 2, W. Walter. he, R. Mackley. 

PARRAKEETS OR SMALL Parrots (Any variety).—2, W. Walter, 2 

ANY OTHER VARIETY OF ForREIGN Birp.—l, J. R. Buckler, Gannicox (American 
Horned Owl). 2, F. Wilton, Gloucester (Cardinal). vhe, A. Webster, jun. 
(Jaya Sparrows); W. Walter (Parson Finches). c, W. Walter (Java Sparrows). 


JupcEs.—Poultry: Rev. G.F. Hodson and Mr. R. Teebay. Pigeons: 
Mr. T. J. Cottle. Rabbits: Mr. C. Rayson. Canaries and Cage 
Birds: Mr. W. A. Blakston. 


NOTES FROM MY CANARY ROOM.—No. 8. 


.... Lamsorry that my young Canaries do not seem to 
ke able to withs'and the north-east winds which are more 


94 


(Ju) 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ June 1, 1871. 


busy than usual this year. I cannot get mine to live, they 
will die.” 

‘‘T have only three left, and they are of no value. I have 
had forty. There is something more injurious at work, how- 
ever, than low temperature. I fancy these birds’ constitutions 
have been weakened by generations of unnatural habits, and I 
want to find a substitute for the insect-food upon which, I 
believe, the young of all seed-eating birds are fed. Egg is not 
all that is required. Mine are treated to a variety of food— 
lettuce one day, groundsel the next, or chickweed and dande- 
lion heads; groats and rough oatmeal are placed within reach ; 
mawseed is given in small quantities. They have choice of 
food, good water, and the closest attention, but they will not 
grow but remain a few days half-fledged, and then go to their 
brothers and sisters who are in the happy hunting grounds.” 

‘My wife is an indefatigable attendant, and many tears 
have been shed over the extremely ugly remains of the produce 
of Nos. ——, Crystal Palace.’”’ So writes a correspondent. 
The most general complaint is, ‘‘ My hens will not feed.” I 
do not mean that it is a complaint peculiar to this, but to all 
seasons. It is the difficulty of difficulties, the trouble which 
above all other troubles most deeply concerns breeders. It is 
an extraordinary thing, however, that it is generally the best 
birds which die—that is, if we are to believe all we are told. I 
should think there are more evenly-marked Canaries and clean 
Males than any other class, which die in their infancy. It is 


astonishing how many some men lose in a season—vwhole | 


nests of them. Bat such die very young! 
The untimely death of young Canaries through the neglect 
of their mother who in this case is, I am sorry to say, the 


parent guilty of neglect, and the sin of throwing her children | 


on the parish, is a loss which can only be averted by keeping a 
number of narses whose abilities, remember, can only be 
tested by experience. A character from her last place is not a 
criterion of any hen’s merits or demerits as a mother, nor is 
what she did or did not last year any guarantee for this. Last 


season she may have been so callous and deaf to every call of | 


maternal duty as to starve or smother every nest, while this | 
The fact is simply this, that | 


year she may be a model nurse. 
nobody can by any mode of treatment whatever insure that 
any one hen shall put as much as a single morsel into the 


gaping mouths of her progeny, or that she will do other than | 
quietly settle herself down on them and deliberately smother | 


them. I am quite prepared to find that some will reply, “I 


feed on so and so, andI do so and go, and I never had this | 


great mortality.” That may be, but your turn will come when 
all the so and so you can devise will not save them, and your 
morning duty will be to throw out your dead birds, your after- 
noon duty ditto, and your evening duty the same as that of 
the morning and afternoon. 

Oa the other hand, when a hen, or better still, both cock 
and hen feed properly, all goes on as prosperously as if the 
birds were in their natural wild state. The young birds, never 
naked, lie in the nest covered with down, and curled-up like 
hairy caterpillars ; they grow amazingly and develope feathers 
rapidly, their first downy dress still fluttering about at the 
tips of the more matured feathers instead of being rubbed off, 
as is the case with half-starved and half-clad unfortunates. 
They look strong and fat and lusty, and their crops are always 
so full that it seems almost a labour for them to lift up their 
heads for the food with which their parents never seem tired 
of cramming them. 

To bring about this most desirable state of affairs, nurses—a 
number of nurses—too many rather than too few must be kept. 
How to get them is the question. They can only be had by 
putting-up as many common hens as room ean be found for, 
in the hope that among them there may be some which will 
attend to their duties properly. The eggs and young birds of 
such must be thrown away, and those of more valuable ones 
substituted: hence the policy of getting them as common and 
worthless as possible that there may be no inducement to rear 
their young, and no hesitation in destroying them. If you do 
not like to be guilty of the crime of infanticide, place the com- 
mon ones under the more aristocratic mother and give them a 
chance. It will do her good to try and perform her maternal 
duties, and it may be that the disinclination to feed will dis- 
appear and both nests be saved. Something may be done by 
giving frequent supplies of fresh food, and (I think I have said 
this before), in the absence of a better mother, by doing the 
best you can to feed the neglected birds yourself with yolk of 
hard-boiled egg. Moisten it more or less according to their 
age, making it for very young birds almost creamy; take a 


little on the end of a blunt-pointed piece of stick, give a chirp, 
something between a squeak and a kiss, and touch one of the 
little fellows on the side of the beak, when he will open his 
mouth and continue so to do as quickly as you can fill his 
little hatchway, till he lays down his head a satisfied cormo- 
rant, Q.E.F. 

The shoals and quicksands of infancy passed, and the young 
birds out of danger, by which I mein so far feathered that they 
are not dependant upon the hen for warmth, the cock will 
take care they are not neglected for the future. The hen wil! 
by this time, most probably, want to go to nest again; supply 
her with a second box and nesting material, or she will strip: 
the young ones. When she lays remove the cock and the 
young birds into another cage, where they will keep him going 
till they can feed themselves. As soon as you see them help: 
ing themselves from the egg box, decrease the supply of soft 
food, and give canary seed rough-ground in a coffee-mill.— 
W. A. Buarsron. 


PROPAGATION OF LIGURIANS. 


Hayine a good strong stock of Ligurian bees, I wish you 
would kindly inform me the best way to proceed in order to 
make a few artificial swarms. I have some good strong stocks 
of black bees, can I use them for the purpose? and at the same 
time can I raise a few artificial queens to unite with my black 
swarms? Having bought the bees and bee furniture of an old 
apiarian, there are many things included that I do not under- 


| stand; for instance, two nucleus boxes quite new. Can you 


tell me for what purpose they are intended, and how to use 
them? The books I have seen do not give me any information 
about them, and if you know of one that would do so I should 
be glad to procure it.—G. B. C. 


[We presume that your colony of Ligurians is in a hive 
having moveable frames, and that you are acquainted with the 
method of removing and examining these frames. We also 
presume that your stock is headed by a really pure Ligurian 
queen, otherwise all your labour in endeavouring to propagate 
Ligurians will be thrown away. 

As you desire to make your stocks of common bees available, 
you had better at once, if not already domiciled in frame hives. 
proceed to transfer the combs and bees of some of them into 
such hives, similar in every respect to that you haye in use. 
We also presume that you know how to ‘‘ drive” bees. If not, 
you can procure ‘‘ Bee-keeping for the Many,” which can be 
obtained from this office for five stamps, and which will give 
you sufficient information on that head. 

Having driven out the bees of a hive, carefully cut out the 
combs, fit them ‘‘into the frames, and support them therein 
by strips of wood 3-Sths of an inch wide and 1-16th thick, 
tacked at the top and bottom, two on each side of every comb, 
and by zinc clips passing over the top of the bar. Thick 
combs must be pared down, but take care that the cells on 
either side are left of equal length, and that the ‘ partition 
wall’ isin the centre of each bar. Crooked combs should be 
set straight, and if not sufficiently pliable to permit of this 
being done, may be slightly warmed before the fire. If the 
Woodbury hive is used it will be found convenient to remove 
the projecting rib from the bars, and the bees will attach the 
combs to them with greater facility if their under surfaces be. 
coated with melted wax. Having completed the job, and ar- 
ranged the combs in the same order in their new apartment as. 
that which they occupied in their old one, deepen the hive by 
the addition, on the top, of another, from which the frames 
and crown and floor-boards have been removed, set it on the 
old stand, and knock out the cluster of bees into the upper 
hive on the top of the frames of the lower one, putting on the 
crown with the utmost celerity. Next morning take away the 
inserted hive, and the day after that remove the supports from 
all the combs which the bees have fixed. Stocks of bees with 
combs not less than a year old should be selected for this 
operation, which must in no case be attempted with swarms of 
the current year, as their combs are too soft to sustain the 
weight of their contents without crushing when their natural 
supports have been removed.” 

While these transferred stocks are recovering themselves, 
and making good the deficiencies in their combs, &c., you may 
proceed with the necessary manipulations towards obtaining 
young queens from your one Ligurian colony. You will per- 
ceive that in the following directions we also reply to your 
query respecting the use of nucleus boxes. 

Your stock hiye, A, being sufliciently populous for the pur- 


June 1, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


395 


pose, choose a fine day, and having an emovty hive ready, place 
it on a stand close by the stock. You now lift out and examine 
each comb in order to discover the queen, beginning at an end 
one, which, when satisfied that her majesty is not on it, is 
rested on one side of the box. The next comb having been in- 
spected with a similar result, is slipped into the place which 
was occupied by the first, and so on until the queen is dis- 
covered on the surface of one of the combs. This comb, with 
the queen and the adhering bees, is placed in the second box, B. 
The other frames are inserted in their positions, and, if 
possible, one or more empty worker combs are given on both 
sides of the brood comb. B, with the queen, is put on the 
stand that A occupied. The combs in A having been brought 
together, so as to allow of no vacant space in the centre of the 
hive, and a frame with or without worker comb haying been 
substituted for the one removed, the cover is fixed on, and the 
hive is shifted at once to another part of the garden. The bees 
on the wing, and many which will leave the stock hive, will 
join their queen in the new hive, B. 

The bees, after the discovery of the loss of their queen, will 
soon commence the formation of royal cells. In due time a 
young princess will arrive at maturity, and on gaining her 
liberty immediately endeavours to destroy all her less-matured 
rivals. You should prevent this destruction by a timely re- 
moval of some of the superfluous royal cells, which you may 
make available in the formation of other artificial swarms. 

Your nucleus boxes can now be called into service. You 
must choose one of your transferred stocks which is well supplied 
with bees and brood, and proceed to examine the combs as 
before; but this time your object is to discover a brood comb 
with eggs or brood of suitable age, and to make yourself sure 
that the queen is not onit. Having satisfied yourself on this 
point, you take two of the superfluous royal cells which you 
have cut out from the old stock A, and insert them in the 
middle of the brood comb, being careful that the cells occupy 
their proper positions, and are not in any way bruised or muti- 
lated. It is best not to rest satisfied with the fact of your not 
having been able to find the queen on the brood comb you have 
chosen, but to search diligently through the remaining combs 
until you catch sight of her. Having done so you brush off 
the adhering bees from one or two other brood combs, and, 
instead of the ordinary cover, substitute one of perforated zinc, 
close the entrance also with the same, and remove the box 
within doors until the evening. As in the former case, an 
empty frame must be given to the old stock at the side, the 
others being pushed up together, so as to leave no vacant space 
near the centre. The nucleus must be examined the next day 
to see if the sealed royal cells appear to be all right, or whether 
fresh ones have been commenced, and also to determine if 
there is a sufficient population. If not, some more bees must 
be given to it in the same manner as before from the same 
hive. When a young queen has commenced breeding you can 
destroy or remoye the queen of one of your common stocks, 
and having captured the young queen, you must confine her 
with two or three of her own bees ina queen cage (a small wire 
pipe cover sold for the purpose) on the surface of one of the 
brood combs for about twenty-four hours, wh n the hive must 
be opened and the prisoners liberated. A few days afterwards 
the combs must be again inspected, to ascertain if the queen 
has been favourably received, or whether she has been destroyed. 
The conclusion may be arrived at either by obtaining a sight 
of her, or by finding royal cells in the course of formation. 

These small artificial Swarms in the nucleus boxes may, if 
you please, be built up into strong colonies by another process. 
As soon as the queens are hatched out, open any of your frame 
hives and choose one or more combs containing brood in an 
advanced state. Brush off with a feather all the bees, and 
give the comb or combs to the nucleus. When the population 
has increased sufficiently, the combs and bees of the small 
hive may be transferred to a full-sized box, and more brood 
combs may be given. We have frequently built up our best 
and strongest hives in this way. 

As your stocks consist almost entirely of common bees, it is 
nearly certain that your young queens will pair-with common 
drones, so that their worker progeny will be only hybrids. But 
as the drones raised by these queens will be pure, you will have 
to rear a fresh supply of young princesses in the following 
season, and again go through the process of exchanging 
queens in all your stocks, with the exception of that which 
contains your original Ligurian queen if she be still alive and 
vigorous. 

If you really desire to thoroughly ligurianise your apiary 


you must forego all expectation of deriving any benefit from it 
in the way of honey, and must be prepared to sacrifice every 
queen which does not exhibit by her progeny unqualified proof 
of purity. You must also be prepared to see a considerable 
weakening of the strength of some or all of your colonier, 
and, if necessary, supply artificial food with a judicious but 
yinerat hand. Hither go through the matter completely, or not 
at all. 

You will find Langstroth’s work on the honey bee the one 
best suited to your requirements. It can be ordered through 
any bookseller.—Ebs. | 


ARTIFICIAL SWARMING. 


I wavine a strong stock of hybrid bees which I wish to prevent 
swarming naturally, but which I also wish to propagate, I propose 
doing so in the following manner, and wish for advice under the 
circumstances. 

Some fine morning I take the stock from its place in the bee house 
(it is in a Woodbury frame hive), and drive the bees upwards into a 
similar hive with or without empty combs fitted into frames, which 
hive and bees I remove to another garden about ten minutes’ walk from 
mine, with large houses and trees between. Will the returning bees 
make up a small stock sufficient to carry on.the original colony, which 
I replace in its former position, and will they hatch out a queen in the 
correct style ? 

Tam not much of a bee-master yet, or I would endeavour to take 
out the frame with the queen on it, and place her with her attendants 
in a nucleus box; but the bees have built comb betweeu the ends of 
the frames and the sides of the hive to such an extent that I fear a 
fearful row would result if I endeavoured to abstract one or two, and 
in this case alone I labour under another disadvantage—not knowing 
how to smoke a pipe, and I can get no one to do it for me, as my 
manipulating powers are not credited to a sufficient extent. 

Also, I have one other stock of black bees which began the season 
well, but now appears weak; I conclude it has a queen as drones 
appear ; pollen also is carried in. I have had it about four years, and 
it has always given me satisfaction in the shape of a good-sized super 
every year. It has not swarmed since I had it, and I do not know its 
age. It isin a Neighbour’s hive with three windows. It had a good stock 
of food, some cells are still sealed up containing honey, and everything 
about it looks clean, and no dead bees on the ground in any quantity ; 
it appears on friendly terms with its neighbour the strong hybrid stock 
before mentioned. 

What a pity itis that our French friends will not study the economy 
of a hive of bees, and apply it to their own sad state just now, and why 
will they not accept one of the two or three pieces of ‘‘ brood comb” 
offered them ? 

Any information and assistance in these two dilemmas will be most 
gratefully received (more especially if it come in your next impression) 
by—C. A. J. 


[Some people in trying to avoid an apparent difficulty plunge into a 
course of action which must involve them in undoubtedly real diffi- 
culty. As you appear to be so very unpractised an operator, and timid 
withal, we should advise you to allow your hive to send off a natural 
swarm. We have little doubt that you would thus propagate, as you 
desire, frora your hybrid queen much more effectually than by attempt- 
ing to do so by artificial swarming. But if you still must carry out 
the latter plan, haying snugly ensconced your head and neck in a bee- 
dress, donned your bee-gloves, and securely tied round your coat 
sleeves at the wrist, and your trousers at the ankles, take a roll of 
linen rags tied to a short stick, and having succeeded in causing it to 
smoulder and smoke, start the cover of your hive, and pushing it a 
little on one side blow in some of the smoke, then lift the cover a bit 
at one end and send in some more, thus driving the bees down among 
the combs. Then, with a properly curved honey knife, separate the 
combs between the frames and the box, loosen three or four of the 
frames, shift them a little towards the centre until you can remove one 
of the outer frames, the rest can then be easily taken out one by ones 
You may require to use the smoke occasionally during these proceec- 
ings. You can then follow any course of procedure you please. You 
will find the details given in the reply to a previous correspondent 
applicable to your own requirements. 

With regard to your stock in the Neighbour’s hive, the weakness 
may arise from yarious causes. The queen may be almost worn out 
from age ; the combs may be so clogged with honey as to cramp the 
queen’s powers of breeding; or the hive may be affected with chronic 
foul brood, which we know to have been prevalent in the apiary of a 
neighbour of yours. The first of those named seems to us to be the 
most probakle cause of your hive’s present condition. We shculd re- 
commend you to drive the bees into an empty hive, cut out t’ e combs, 
and, if not affected with the foul brood, fix them into frar es. You 
will then be enabled to ascertain better what is the matter, nd if the 
queen appears to be old and worn out she can be destroyed, : nd proper 
means adopted of supplying her place either from your hyb1i: stock or 
from some other source. If the non-prosperity should arise ‘10m too 
limited space for a prolific queen, some of the combs can be abstr cted 
and the bees induced to build fresh ones. If, on the other hand, foul 
brood in any form should be the cause of the mischief destroy the hive 


396 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 1, 1871. 


and bees at once and for ever. Drone-brood is easily distingnished | super, we remove and turn it up, and with a curved honey-knife cut 


from worker-brood by its being in much larger-sized cells, that sealed 
haying a more conyex and projecting surface.—Ebs. | 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Marxine Fowts (A. 4.).—The best plan is to sew a piece of list round 
theleg. Ifit isa feathered breed then sew the list so that it shall hold 
without being tight enough to destroy the feather. This will be accom- 
plished if the upper edge of the cloth be put beneath a stout feather, and 
the lower sewn a little more tightly than the top. The material is so soft 
and pliable that it does not injure a feather. Ifit be a good broad strip 
it will do noinjury. It need not be tight. It will not slip over the foot, 
it cannot pass over the body. The advantage of this system is, that if 
five or six broods run together, they may always be distinguished by the 
coleur of the worsted round their legs. When it is no trouble to catch the 
fowls, they may be marked in a different manner, equally efficacious but 
not visible. Burn them through the web of the wing with a red hot 
knitting needle, mark the different broods thus:—. .. ... se. wt 
andso on. It cannot be obliterated, and need be known only to yourself. 


CHICKENS DEAD IN THE SHELL (Sutton).—Your question occurs and 
is answered every week. The eggs are too dry. It is for that reason the 
chickens die in the shell. The inner membrane of the egg becomes in 
colour and substance like gutta percha, and the chick, unable to force its 
way through, dies in its hopeless prison. The eggs should be moistened 
daily for ten days before they are hatched, you will then have no trouble. 
All birds following the course of nature, leave the nest at early dawn in 
search of food; they find it in meadows and corn fields; in search of it 
they wander over t he wet grass or corn, every leaf is Jaden with mois- 
ture, which communicates itself to the breast of the hen, and in that 
state she returns to her eggs. Copying nature, many people moisten the 
breast feathers of the sitting hen when they return her to her eggs. By 
one of these or by some other means, eggs to be successfully hatched 
must be thoroughly and frequently wetted. 


Eces CovERED WITH Exvpation (H. K.).—Our impression would have 
been that one egg had been broken, but you say there were but nine, and 
there are nine. Such being the case, there is no doubt exudation takes 
place from one of the eggs. If the hen was fastened closely down by bars 
on the nest, it is quite possible she may have sustained an injury that 
would cause the appearances. 


Eees SmabL AND YoLELEss (M. V.).—Such a state of things as you 
describe can only exist where fowlsare very much out of condition. This 
may be brought about by confinement, or by improper feeding. AU your 
eggs are abortive, and the secretions are at fault; thus, one egg is too 
small and has no yolk, another is soft-shelled, mis-shapen, and has a 
large yolk. If you had described your treatment, it would have been 
easier for us to try fora remedy. Your result will prove you wrong. We 
will tell you what those do who areright. Whether fowls are at liberty 
or not, they must have access to lime in some shape for the formation of 
the egg-shell ; nothingis so useful for this purpose as bricklayers’ rubbish, 
old ceilings, brickbats, &c. Road grit or scrapings are excellent placed 
in heaps; let the fowls level them, and then you have them thrown up 
again. If they are in confinement give them some sods of growing grass, 
and some fresh-pulled lettuces. Feed on ground oats or barleymeal 
slaked with water in the morning, with maize or barley, table and kitchen 
scraps at mid-day, and with ground food again in the evening. It willbe 
a good thing if you give every bird a tablespoonful of castor oil twice at 
twenty-four hours’ interval. If necessary you may follow it with Baily’s 
pills. We have no doubt this treatment will put things rigkt. 


Tore Guineas Fowts Sit (Mv. E. M. K.).—The hatching occupies from 
twenty-eight to thirty days. 


PIGEONS IN A GARDEN (X. Y. Z.).—They will do no harm to your garden, 
for if once or twice scared from it they will be long before they again visit 
it, 


GuasGow PovuTERS AND CuRE FoR WING DiIsEAsE (C. G. M.).—The 
very valuable articles on Pouters, by Mr. Huie, of Glasgow, and other 
Scotch breeders, are in our fourteenth volume—that from January to 
July, 1868. There are many of them, so we cannot specify numbers. As 
to wing disease, we recently had in our own loft a very delicate Scotch 
Fantail with the wing greatly swollen, and eyen black with inflammation ; 
towards the quills there was a quantity of yellow matter, and the bird 
was a perfect cripple. We drew all the flight feathers and let out the thin 
matter near the quills. Gradually the inflammation subsided, and by 
the time the feathers had grown the bird was perfectly well, and now 
flies with the rest, and equally easily: 


Canary BEcomME Buinp (G. H. F.).—Blindness will be no drawback to 
the bird as a songster; the probability is that it will sing more strongly 
than before. We sometimes hear of the barbarous practice of depriving 
a bird of sight by searing the eye with a hot iron, which is supposed by 
some to have the effect of making it a more finished songster. We know of 
moshing which will cure it. It will have no difficulty in finding its seed’ 
and water. 


Rats (E. L. H.).—Have them ferreted, and after killing as many as you 
can, pour a little coal tar into their holes. 

DeaD Lary= Brovucut out oF Htve (4 Cotiager).—Your bees bring- 
ing out dead lary, shows that some of the young grubs have been chilled 
in the cells owing to the sharp nights we have had, and that the bees are 
adopting this means of getting rid of a nuisance. 


Bees Dyrne (Mousley)—We do not know whether you mean the origi- 
nal stock or swarm, as the one in which the bees are dying. We do not 
think there is anything at all strange in the fact of half a dozen bees 
dying every day. At this season of the year, in the natural course of 
things, mortality is very rapid. If you mean the stock hive, you may put 
on acap immediately after swarming; if the swarm, about a fortnight 
afterwards if the season and district are good. 


SUPER ON Hive In Wanter, &c. (G. C).—You had better leaye your 
super on the hive until the young bees are hatched out, then if the queen 
in the meantime has descended to her proper quarters, the cells will be 
most probably filled with honey. Of course, your super is to a great 
extent spoiled, but there may be some good honeycomb which may not 
have been bred in. In our own practice we often have adopted the follow- 
ing plan:—As soon as we first discover the presence of brood in the 


away all the parts so affected. The super is then returned to the stock, 
the bees of which generally repair and fill with boney the fractured 
combs, which are seldom re-occupied by the queen, who, if not in the 
lower hive at the time of the operation, usually quickly retires there on 
the super being replaced. We always endeavour, if possible, to utilise 
the brood comb thus cut out by fixing it in frames, and giving it to some 
young swarm or backward stock. You surely do not expect bees to work 
in supers without clustering in them. ‘‘ Langstroth on the Honey Bee” 
may suit you. It can be ordered through any bookseller. Write to Mr 
W. J. Pettitt, Dover, who makes hives on the principle you require. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN SquaRE, LonDon. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0’ W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Dare. 9 act. Iy THE Day. 
| 
sae | \Shade ‘fem-| Radiation = 
is7l. | $2.32] Hygrome- | pirec-| Temp Tempera- | § 
Bas £| ber tion of/of So: peratures tures Ss 
May. |328,3/— |_| Wind. | at1ft. | In |; On 
Ass | Dry, Wet. Max.} Min.} sun. | grass 
Inches. | deg. deg. de: deg.| deg.| d e. In. 
We. 24 | 29.934'| 675 | 588] . | 55 45.1 |118.3 | AVE 
Th. 25 | 29.818 | 69.0 | 5838] S.E. | 57: | 55.8 |1940 | 5 1. 
Fri. 26 | 29.964 | 58.7 | 538 | S.W. | 57, 50.8 | | 5: 0 
Sat. 27 | 30.008 | 58.6 | 525 N. 36. 413 40.8 | 0.1 
Sun.28 | 30.103 54.0 | 52.6 | N.E. | 55. 49.0 | | 50. 
Mo. 29 | 30.260 | 57.7 | 546 | N. 55. 47.3 |1162 | 45. 
Tu. 80 | 30.228 | 59.7 | 568 | N.E. | 57 42.0 |120.0 | 42.3 
Means | 30.045 | 60.7 | 554 56. 47.3 |119.0 | 46.3 | 0.29 
| } 
REMARKS. 


24th.—A lovely day throughout, only rather too warm, though there was 
a cool breeze. 

25th.—Fine morning, close at noon, and looking storm-like ; a few very 
large drops of rain at 430 P.u., skowery till 7 P.u., then fine. 

25th.—Fine till 6.40 P.u1, when it clouded over for a short time, then 
cleared off with a magnificent rainbow, thongh no rain fell here. 

27th.—Fine morning, slight shower abont 11 a.., thunderstorm from 1.42 
to 3.20, showery the remainder of the day, and much cooler. 

28th.—Rather dull and cold in the morning, warmer and very fine from 
noon to night. 

29th.—Very fine all day. 

30th——Much warmer, but thorgh very fine, not oppressive till the even 
ing. Barometer falling till midnight. 

Fine warm week, air frequently very dry.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—May 31. 


A MODERATE supply and steady demand for most descriptions of frnit 
and vegetables, hothouse produce now being ample for all requirements. 
Continental goods have been coming in very irregularly lately, but we 
hope soon to find the transit working better. Kent Peas and Ashleaf 
Potatoes are now excellent, old ones quite at a discount. 


FRUIT. 

Gib: oth Gl . da. 8. 
2 0to5 0 | Mulberries -Ib. 0 Oto0 0 
. 2 0 38 O| Nectarines doz.10 0 20 0 
10 8 O| Oranges #100 6 0 10 0 
00 O G| Peaches doz.12 0 24 0 
00 O O| Pears,kitchen doz. 00 00 
@ 0 O 0|_ dessert.... doz. 00 Ot 
6 0 12 0| Pine Apples «--lb. 6 0 10 0 
. - 0 O 2 O} Plums.. tsieve 00 00 
CobS.....seeceeeee 1D. 2 0 2 6 | Quinces doz. 00 00 
Gooseberries......quart 0 6 0 S| Raspberries.. . lb. 00 O86 
Grapes, Hothouse.... lb. 6 0 12 0 | Strawberries Ib. 6 0 10 0 
Lemons............ #100 6 0 10 0) Walnuts...... bushel 10 0 16 0 
Melons..............each 6 0 12 0 dittO..cececeeeeel00 10 2 0 

VEGETABLES. 

s.d. 8. a s.d. 8. a 

Artichokes..........d0z. 4 Oto 6 0)| Leeks............ bunch 0 4t005 
Asparagus .. 2100 4 0 8 O| Lettuce ... ..doz 06 10 
Beans, Kidney ...-#100 2 0 8 0| Mushrooms...... pottle 1 0 4 6 
Broad.... bushel 0 0 O 0} Mustard&Cress..punnet 0 2 0 0 
Beet, Red.... .--.doz, 20 $3 0 db 76 10 0 
Broccoli ........ bundle 0 9 1 6 00 00 
BrusselsSprouts..jsieve 0 0 0 0 80 60 
seleslerive pe dh Ae ord 1) Oa ea 
00 00 20 40 
os 10 2 Oe eat) 
6 0 10 0 80 40 
aaG ERO 06310 
80 60 04 00 
WF = tl 00 a0 
6 t) ti), 0) () o0o006U08 0 
2 2.0 (040 06 09 
038s 00 36) SURO, 
0s 00 40 60 
Herbs..... OEB 1050, ONSh slyI6, 
Horseradish .... bundle 8 0 6 0 00 00 


POULTRY MARKET.—May 31. 


THERE are not wanting indications that the supply of young poultry 
is increasing, and that prices will consequently fall. 


gs. d. Ss. de] __ 
Large Fowls 5 6to6 U Pigeons .. 
Smaller ditto 4 6 5 O | Rabbits 
Chickens .. 8 0 8 6 | Wild ditto. 
Ducklings Py es rN Hares ..... 
Goslings .. saepen 6 6 Guinea Fowl 
Pheasants.......0605. 0 0 QO O | Grouse ....... 


June 8, 1871. } 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND OOTTAGE GARDENER, 3 


WEEKLY CALENDAR, 


Day | Day Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sun Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s| Clock | Day 
tn oe JUNE 8—14, 1871. ture near London. |43 years.| Rises. Sets. | Rises. | Sets. Age. ater mont 
Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. . | m. b.| m  h.| m Days, |. m. 38. 
8 | TH | Meeting of Royal Society, 4 p.m. 70.6 | 46.4 | 58.5 15 47 af3 | 11 af8 | 19 afO | 26 af 9 20 1 22} 159 
9 |F 70.8 | 47.2 159.0] 20 | 46 3/11 8/46 0} 43 10] 21 1 10 | 160 
10 Ss 69.6 | 46.9 | 58.3 19 46 3/12 8 5 1/57 11 ¢ 0 59 | 161 
11 Sun | 1 Sunpay Arrer TRINITY. 72.1 | 47.6 | 59.9 13 45 3/13 8] 22 1) after. 23 0 47 | 162 
12 M Meeting of Royal Geographical Society, | 71.4 | 46.1 | 58.8 21 45 3/14. 8/89 1/18 2 24 0 35 | 163 
13 Tu (8.80 p.m. | 71.9 | 47.4 | 59.6 20 45 8/15 8|56 1/26 3 25 0 22 | 164 
14 W Royal Botanic Society’s Show opens. 72.6 | 47.9 | 60.3 19 45 83/16 8/12 2) 8 4 26 0 10 | 165 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 71.3°, and its night tem- 
perature cine The greatest heat was 90°, on the 13th and 14th, 1842; and the lowest cold 30°, on the llth, 1865. The greatest fall of 
rain was 1.48 inch. 


THE CULTURE OF VEGETABLES IN POOR 


SOILS. 
ee) N the excellent remarks of Mr. Fish, under 


the familiar heading of “ Doings of the Last 
Week,” I have been pleased to see such pro- 
minence given to work in the Kitchen Garden, 
every process of cultivation being detailed 
with such painstaking minuteness as to render 
it easy to understand and to apply these use- 
ful lessons. I once heard it remarked that 
“no glass, no gardeners,” seemed now to be 
the motto of young men, whose sole aim was 
to work altogether in the glass houses or among the flowers; 
vegetable-growing being frequently spoken of as “a thing 
anyone can do.” Nor can it be disputed that in a rich soil 
and with a fair average season no great skill is necessary 
to produce fine crops of vegetables; yet all those who 
have to meet the requirements of a family throughout the 
year, will agree with me that the production of a few 
excellent crops in favourable seasons is a very different 
affair from maintaining a steady supply and constant 
succession of each kind in its season, or as long as it may 
be required. To overcome the evils of our fickle climate 
and the ever-changing temperature of spring, which is so 
frequently a series of trying alternations of bright hot 
days, frosty nights, cold, cutting, moisture-laden blasts, 
drought, or blight, demands much more care, forethought, 
and skill than inexperience would suppose, even when one 
enjoys all the important advantages of an abundance of 
rich manure and a good water supply; but when these 
grand aids to success are wanting, and one has in such 
a season as that of 1870 to battle with the drought, which 
fell with such scathing power upon the earth, then is the 
time of trial calling forth our best efforts, so that no miss- 
ing dishes or paucity of supply shall be evident, even to 
that insatiable individual the cook. 

Having had some experience of vegetable culture in a 
poor soil, I purpose offering a few notes on the subject. 

When the lengthening day and mild temperature of 
spring come to us in their regular course, they indicate 
that the seed time has come for which we began preparing 
as long ago as the autumn of the preceding year, for then 
the majority of the crops having been gathered in, every 
part of the garden not occupied by permanent crops or 
winter vegetables should be at once taken in hand, the 
damp spots seen to, drains made, faulty drains repaired, 
and all the soil trenched at least two spades deep, and 
thrown up either in ridges or as roughly as possible, so 
that it may be thoroughly exposed to the ameliorating 
influence of the frost, air, and rain during the ensuing 
winter. The action of the frost upon the soil is the most 
important, and may be described as the changing of the 
moisture of the soil into ice, which expands so forcibly as 
to completely shatter the soil, separating it on thawing 
into so many particles that the air is admitted freely 
among it; it loses all its sodden sourness, becomes changed 
from a cold inert mass to an open lively soil, and is in the 
best possible condition for cropping. In a heavy tena- 

No. 592.—Vou. XX., NEW SERIES, 


wi 


<I 


& 


* 
S 


vA 


cious clayey soil something more than this is required, 
otherwise it settles down into its former condition so 
quickly that it becomes hurtful to the growing crops, 
especially in a wet summer. To remedy this evil, and 
make the soil more friable and open, a dressing of some 
such material as burnt earth, ashes, brickdust, or mortar 
rubbish answers admirably. Some stress is laid upon 
this autumn cultivation of the soil, for obvious reasons. 
When the soil of a garden undergoes such excellent and 
timely culture it lies ready for use, for by its being so 
pervious to the action of sun and wind one is enabled to 
take advantage of the favourable opportunity which two 
or three days of bright sunshine afford in order to sow the 
seed of early vegetables, and of those kinds requiring all 
the months of spring and summer to develope their full 
excellence. Cold damp weather is so frequently the charac- 
teristic of our changeable climate during the earlier months 
of the year that not one fair day should be lost, or we may 
have cause to resret it throughout the season. j 

Compare the prospects for success of A, whose soil is 
well stirred in autumn, and so exposed during winter that 
it is purified of all its crude sourness, and so thoroughly 
pulverised that it is ready for the seed at the proper time ; 
and of B, who has suffered his ground to lie through 
winter a down-trodden inert mass, only digging it over as 
the time for cropping it approaches, when it is thrown 
over in wet heavy clods, and as soon as it is slightly dry 
at the surface in go the seeds, very often to perish as they 
vegetate. There can be no question as to the superiority 
of A’s practice ; in fact, it strikes one as being so patent 
to the dullest intellect that nothing more need be written 
to enforce it. 

Next in importance to the cultivation of the soil is the 
application of manure. To produce first-class vegetables 
one can hardly have too much manure ; if enough of it can 
be had it is, of course, best to apply a liberal dressing, to 
be well worked in the soil as it is stirred in autumn. By 
a liberal dressing I mean a layer at least 6 inches thick 
all over the surface; if it is thicker, so much the better, 
no matter what may be the nature of the soil. I would 
only take care, when the trenching is done, not to bury the 
manure too deeply, but to keep it so near the surface that 
the roots of the vegetables may feed upon it while the 
plants are young, and these from growing briskly and with 
vigour will come quickly into use, and also withstand the 
attacks of drought and blight to which plants of more 
weakly growth would quickly succumb. There need be no 
fear of waste when manure is so applied, for the power of 
most soils to absorb and retain the salts contained in 
manures is a well-established fact, the only exception 
being that of very sandy soil, to which manure is best 
apphed in a liquid state frequently during the growing 
season. It too frequently happens, however, that the sup- 
ply of manure falls very short of the requirements of the 
garden, causing one to resort to all kinds of makeshifts, 
for it is useless to sit down and bemoan the want of the 
precious commodity ; far better is it to look keenly around, 
and see that no particle of any matter useful for manure 
{is wasted; every barrowful of lawn-mowings, weeds, or 
No, 1184.—Vou. XLY., OtpD SERIES. 


398 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ June 8, 1871. 


leaves should either be used at once or go to the annual ma- 
nure heap. After practising such strict watchfulness and 
economy in its accumulation, the limited supply is far too small 
and precious to be thrown broadcast over the land; instead of 
which one must strive so to concentrate it that the crops may 
derive the greatest benefit from it. The best way to do this is 
to prepare beds or trenches 1 foot deep and of various widths, 
put a layer of 8 inches of manure mixed slightly with the soilin 
each trench, filling up the remaining space with the garden soil. 
In these useful beds almost all kinds of vegetables do well. 
Peas, Beans of all kinds, Spinach, all the Cabbage tribe, Onions, 
Turnips, Salsafy, Leeks, salading of all kinds—all these and 
many other crops I have so grown with the best results. 

Beet is not usually required very large, but of Carrots and 
Parsnips fine symmetrical roots are grown by the well-known 
method of dibbling holes about 1 foot deep, and 3 or 4 inches 
in diameter at top, and filling them with a mixture composed 
of equal parts of sifted manure and sand—a by-no-means diffi- 
eult or heavy undertaking in a well-stirred soil, the fine roots 
almost invariably produced by this method well repaying one 
for the extra trouble. Those having the advantage of a rich 
loamy soil, may smile at such an elaborate process for growing 
Parsnips and Carrots, but let others having to contend with a 
poor soil only give this plan a fair trial, and they will be able 
to produce roots of the highest excellence both in shape and 
quality. Moreover, such modes of culture embody the truest 
economy, almost every root being so straight and handsome 
that no waste is incurred, while on the other hand, how fre- 
quently do such crops, when sown in drills in rich soils after 
the ordinary fashion, yield a very large proportion of forked 
crooked roots quite unfit for culinary purposes. 

Another thing by far too important to be omitted is the free 
use of liquid manure in vegetable culture, for by its judicious 
and constant application rich stimulating food is given to the 
plants as they require it, so that they are sustained in full 
vigour throughout the growing season, and thus brought toa 
high degree of excellence. Care should, of course, be taken 
that it is not given in excess of the planis’ requirements.— 
EpwarD LuckHURST. 


STRAWBERRY CULTURE. 


I First prepare a clean piece of ground, and have it trenched 
two good spits deep, placing plenty of well-decomposed manure 
at the bottom of the trench, I then give a good top-dressing of 
manure from an old Cucumber-bed. I always peg the first 
runners into 60-sized pots, and as soon as they are ready I 
have them planted in their fruiting-bed. I never allow the 
plants in my fruiting-beds to have any runners. I never dig 
between my plants after planting out. I let the beds remain 
all winter as they are after the fruit is gathered, for I consider 
the old foliage ‘helps to protect the crowns in severe winters. 

In the spring I go over the beds with a knife, cut off the 
dead foliage, and rake and clean the beds. Asi have at that 
time a heap of manure ready to be put on the beds, I always 
give a good top-dressing, which answers for all purposes, as it 
Keeps the ground moist and the frnit clean. It also prevents 
the liquid manure from running away from the beds. I apply 
liquid manure as soon as the plants show their flower-stalks, 
and I give a good watering as soon as the fruit begins to swell, 
and more if needed. I have no more trouble with my beds 
except in gathering the fruit, and that is often a trouble to a 
gardener when he is short of hands. My beds at this date 
(May 28th) promise a profuse crop. 
fitThe varieties which I grow are, for early production, Keens’ 
Seedling, Alice Maude, and Sir Harry. Other sorts are— 
Cocksecomb, President, The Lady, Due de Malakoff, Nimrod, 
Crimson Queen, British Queen, Dr. Hogg, Sir Joseph Paxton, 
Sir Charles Napier, Myatt’s Eliza, and Myatt’s Surprise; but 
above all the British Queen, Crimson Queen, Nimrod, and Sir C. 
Napier, are the favourites with me.—J. Rosn, Gardener, Dal- 
linghoe Rectory, Suffolk. 


EFFECTS OF THE WEATHER.—The past week has been remark- 
able for cold weather, a strong east wind prevailing. This ap- 
pears to have blighted most things, and both on Friday and 
Saturday night there was a severe hoar frost, which, in the 
month of June and in the height of the bedding-out season, 
has discoloured many plants. In the kitchen garden it has 
been necessary to protect Dwarf Kidney Beans and Scarlet 
Runners with straw, and that too in the middle of the day, as 


the winds have been so cutting. I do not remember haying 
ever seen the Red Currant trees so much cut up through honey- 
dew and aphis; in some places the foliage is dropping off, and 
the trees apparently dying. Cherry trees are pretty free from 
their pest—the black fly, and Rose trees are this season un- 
usually free from both the maggot and fiy.—T. Reconrp. 


ANOMALIES OF THE PAST WINTER. 


ATHouGH in my garden, not far from London, the ther- 
mometer went down to 4°, and killed even the Purple Sprout- 
ing Broccoli, yet I am surprised to find how many plants 
usually considered more or less tender have passed through 
the ordeal unharmed in the open border. I would note Linum 
flavum, Crinum capense, Lilium longiflorum, Michauxia cam- 
panuloides, and Calandrinia umbellata. Colletia horrida has 
survived not only this winter, but the still severer one of 1860. 
The terminal shoots of Figs, though covered thickly with straw, 
and this, again, kept dry by a covering of oiled paper, have 
been killed where not nailed back against a wall. But at 
Hastings, on the 29th of May, I see inthe garden of Miss North, 
in the Croft, a standard Brown Turkey, fully exposed to the 
east, with four leaves already expanded, and seven or eight 
fruits showing on most of the shoots. ; 

Sometime ago one of your correspondents asked for practical 
testimony as to the use of laying down Broccoli in autumn, 
heads northwards. It is universally reeommended, but I tried 
it several years, leaving some rows untouched. The latter 
stood the winter best. The most vulnerable part seems to be 
just under the leaves, and when the plant is laid down this is 
more exposed. 

At Pevensey, I observed a vinery built in a fashion prevalent 
at Hastbourne, and which gives some of the advantages of the 
curvilinear roof in admitting the direct rays of the sun when 
he is at different altitudes. At 
the back there is a wall. The 
roof is slightly hipped so as to 
allow ventilation on the north- 
ern side. The southern lights 
are fixed, but divided into two 
portions. The upper two-thirds 
are at an angle of about 30°, 
while the lower third has a 
sharper pitch, probably about 
50°. Not having been able to 
get a side view of the house, I 
could not well determine the 
angle. The front wall is about 
2 feet high, with large wooden 
ventilators, through which I saw the hot-water pipes running 
near it.—G. 8. : 


THE CUCUMBER DISEASE. 


For the last seven years I have been troubled with the 
Cucumber disease in its worst form in a house heated by hot 
water; in frames on dung beds, and in the open air they are 
equally affected. Ihave tried them in all kinds of soil—maiden 
loam, a mixture of loam and leaf mould, and in peat and char- 
coal in winter. In the present season I have been more suc- 
cessful; I began to fancy I had found a remedy, as, during 
April, I cut a number of good sound fruit, but I am sorry to 
say I shall soon be compelled to destroy the plants, as the 
fruit are now very much diseased. A friend of mine, who has 
been a Cucumber-grower for more than twenty years, was 
troubled with the disease in his plants fourteen or fifteen years 
ago; it left him, and he has never hada diseased fruit since, 
and his treatment has varied but little during the whole of his 
experience. One of your correspondents attributes this disease 
to a deficiency of water and air in a high temperature, and to 
too much of the former and not enough of the latter in a low 
one. Now,I do not wish to contest his having done all he 
states, but I fear he is as far from the cause and cure as ever, 
as 1 have tried all kinds of temperatures, but in vain. My 
supply is kept up by having a succession of young plants, as 
I find the first fruits are invariably the best.—J. C. B. 


Carrent’s Eorrrsr Broccort.—We have received well-grown 
specimens of this from Mr. J. R. Pocock, gardener to N. M. 
Forbes, Esq., Lilburstone Lodge, Godstone. It stood the frost 
of last winter better than any other-variety. Out of 350 plants 


—— 


June 8, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


3¢9 


Tho leaves are fastened together by 
Can any of our readers 


[The 


he only lost about twelve. 
their points so as to shelter the head. 
give information respecting the cause of the adhesion? 
heads of the specimens were 11 inches across.—Eps. ] 


EARTHING OF POTATORS, 


Att my men who have Potato ground, and all my neighbours 
too, to whom I have spoken on the subject, think it of the 
utmost importance to earth-up Potatoes, but not one of them 
can explain to me the use of it. All they say is, ‘‘ Try it, and 
you will find the difference. You will have a far heavier crop 
after earthing-up.” But not one of them can get beyond the 
fact, if fact itis. The Why, in spite of all questionings, I can 
never reach. In the autumn I hope to determine ‘the fact, 
having some six or eight kinds planted in the field, half of 
which are treated one way, and half the other. But, prior to 
experience, I should like to hear what your learned men say on 
the subject. 

I urge, What is the use of heaping dry dust round the stem 
of- the plant—so high that I have sometimes seen the topmost 
leaf all but buried? They do not, as I have proved, root in 
this dry dust. Then what can be the advantage of arranging 
your earth, on a dry soil like ours, so as to shoot the water 
that falls from heaven as far as possible from the plant? You 
are fastening an artificial umbrella round its waist. Then the 
surface earth thrown up round the waist of the plant is taken 
from the soil between the rows into which the roots are just 
beginning to make their way. The moist soil is laid bare, and 
in a soil like ours, where our utmost endeavour should be to 
save moisture, the young roots are exposed to the sun’s rays. 
The Potato is a very shallow-rooting plant, and this day 
(Jane 1st) I saw a light mould board plough, an American 
affair, carrying in its progress long threads of rootlets and 
fibre across its neck, and the work was lightly done too. I 
made the man confess that if earthing was of service, it must 
be of service, too, to root-prune a plant at midsummer. The 
roots of Potatoes are so rapid in their growth, that even horse- 
hoeing must be accomplished as soon as you can see the plants. 
By the time the top has risen 3, the roots laterally have pushed 
out 6 inches. 

Well, what can be the use of it? I grant it prevents green 
tubers, but what does that matter? The green ones may be 
kept for seed. I grant that earthed-up Potatoes are easier to 
lift, but of what use is it to the plant? as they all aver it is. 
Ts it possible that the tubers swell more freely when sheltered 
from the heat? Give me the reason, or by facts disprove the 
fact.— WYESIDE. 

[Our own experience led us to the conclusion that earthing-up 
is worse than useless.. Itdid not increase the produce of tubers, 
and delayed considerably their ripening, so as to expose them 
longer to liability to the disease. We shall be very pleased by 
being furnished with well-conducted experiments on compara- 
tive earthing-up and non-earthing-up.—Ebs. } 


STRAWBERRY PROSPECTS. 


Mr. Quintin Reap states that he has some Strawberries 
planted last August putting up from ten to twelve trusses. I 
think he must have made a mistake, or he must be progressing 
and improving. 

T have fifty rows of Strawberries, fifty-six plants in each row, 
planted iast August, which are pronounced by all who have 
seen them to be very fine, but I dare not say the plants have 
ten or twelve trusses each. I have another fifty rows which 
were planted in August, 1869. I shall inform you what are the 
results in both cases. I haye also some rows a year older, 
which I think promise well. I planted my fifty rows last 
August on a plot of land which had been cropped with Potatoes, 
and between the rows of Strawberries I planted Wallflowers, 
sold these off at 8d. per dozen in Apyil, and then dug the ground 
between the rows. I wish other correspondents would state 
the number and quality of the plants which they have, and the 
quantity and quality of the fruit produced, as I intend doing 
in another letter.—J. M. H. 


Tux JapaANesr HonrysucKLE.—Some years since, conversing 
with a well-known floriculturist, I asked him whether the 
Japanese Honeysuckle was ever known to flower in England. 
He stated, in reply, that he had read of such an eyent, but 


thought the cases were extremely rare. It may, I think, in- 
terest some of your readers to know that the Japanese Honey- 
suckle, which grows against the south wall of my house, is now 
coming into flower. The plant is one of very vigorous growth, 
having attained, within a comparatively short period, the height 
of 11 feet, and promising before very long, with the aid of wires, 
to reach to the top of the house. The flowers at present are 
confined to those parts of the plant which arein the warmest 
position, and lie close to the wall; they very much resemble 
the flowers of the ordinary Honeysuckle, but are smaller, and, 
like it, give forth a most fragrant scent. I shail be glad to 
hear if the plant has flowered in other localities.—H. Barrruu, 
Great Berkhampstead, Herts. 


HARDY VINES ON HARDY STOCKS. 


I READ in ‘our Journal”? your approval of the above, and 
send for your inspection a shoot of West’s St. Peter’s Grape, 
one of nineteen, all that were left on this Vine, now showing 
twenty-seven bunches of bloom from nineteen eyes. It was 
planted out last spring in the common garden soil trenched 
2 feet deep, with a small addition of broken bones and dust, 
3 feet from a board fence facing the south-west, and has not 
received any glass protection up to this time. A few mornings 
ago between 3 and 44.m., it snowed freely upon this Vine, and 
many others. For five generations back my stock has been 
grown without artificial heat, and the eyes struck in a cold 
frame in 60-sized pots. This treatment has brought about the 
robust hardy fruitful habit which my Vines possess. I have 
Vines that have been grown a short time with great heat, but 
they are all sorry objects until they have been in my training 
at least two years, and are not the Vines for the amateur. 
Golden Champion on its own roots is still the sickly child of 
my family. I say it should have been sent out at first grafted 
on the Frankenthal. 

I have forty-seven sorts of Vines, in addition to fifteen species 
and hybrids from North America, with two seedling Grapes 
between our Grapes and North American species, hardy, 
vigorous, fruitful, of high quality, yielding in any soil rich 
fruié at little cost and trouble—in fact, ‘‘ the amateur’s Vines.” 
On these and my stock of hardy Americans I will at some time 
write a separate article.—R. M. W., Fir View, Walkley, near 
Sheffield. 


THE RHODODENDRON SHOWS. 


As usual, both at the Royal Horticultural Society's Garden and at 
the Regent's Park, there are grand exhibitions of Rhododendrons. 
Those who have not seen such an exhibition can form but a faint idea 
of its splendour—of the gorgeous effect which these so-called American 
shows produce. Alas! their glory is but transient; but when sum- 
mer still lies in the lap of spring—with these north-easters one might 
say in the lap of winter—anything approaching an out-door display is 
especially welcome. 

Mr. AnrHony WATERER, OF THE Knap Hot Nursery, WoxING, 
holds his show at South Kensington, where he occupies a new tent put 
up by Mr. Unite, of Paddington, which, though not on the same 
gigantic scale as regards its height as the tent designed by the late 
Captain Fowke (the site of which now forms part of the permanent 
International Exhibition), is from that very circumstance much better 
adapted for the purpose, inasmuch as it has not the dwarfing effect on 
the plants which all high structures have. From the fact of the area 
enclosed being a nearer approach to a square, it is probably but little 
less extensive than before. The walks and beds are well laid out, sunken 
here, elevated there, and the general effect is extremely pleasing. 
Though the Rhododendrons have not, while we write, attained their 
full beauty, they will doubtless be in perfection by the time this shall 
have appeared, and as it is they present richly varied masses of colour 
without the gaudiness and painful impression on the eye of colour 
unrelievyed by nature’s green. We have no new varieties to note this 
year, but old favourites are to be seen in abundance—such sorts as 
Everestianum, Brayanum, Lady E. Cathcart, and many others are in 
as great beauty as ever. Of varieties of more recent date, among 
crimsons may be particularised Caractacus, H. W. Sargent, and Mrs. 
Milner; Mrs. John Clutton and Purity, white ; rose, Lady Armstrong, 
Stella, Rosabel; rosy purple and purple, Sir Thomas Sebright, and 
Mrs. G. H. Heneage. In addition to the Rhododendrons are two 
plants in tubs of the beautiful Cupressus Lawsoniana erecta viridis, 
one of the most beautiful of all pyramidal Conifers, the branches 
feathering close into the stem and that without a shade of brownness, 
withal it is as hardy as the ordinary Cupressus Lawsoniana. 

Messrs. JoHN WatTERER & Sons, or Baasuor, hold their exhi- 
bition at the Royal Botanic Society’s Garden, Regent's Park, and if, 
too, is of great excellence. Alterations have this year been made in 
the laying-out of the grounds, so as to afford a more complete view of 
the plants without exposing the boundaries more than is unavoidable. 


400 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 8, 1871. 


An eminence at one end of the tent gives a view of nearly the whole 
of the exhibition without sacrificing the idea of indefinite extent. 
Among the varieties especially to be noted this year are Loquendum, 
rose with an orange blotch, fine; Notabile, bright rose, good shape ; 
Victurum, bright rose, very dark spots; Baroness Lionel Rothschild, 
glowing crimson, remarkably fine ; Pantherinum, rosy crimson, spotted 
in all the petals; Cynthia, rose, very fine truss; Madame Van de 
Weyer, rosy crimson, very bright; and Lady Emily Peel, purplish 
rose, very dark spots. It may be useful to note as very late varieties, 
that Henry Bohn, Lady Falmouth, and Duchess of Cambridge are as 
yet only in bud. 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 
JUNE 7TH. 


On this occasion the tent was too large for the Show; there was a 
deficiency of large specimens, and from their absence, notwithstanding 
the number of subjects exhibited, the tent was not so well furnished 
as desirable. The severity of the weather (and it is severity when 
snow falls early on a June morning, even when the wind is dead 
north), no doubt deterred many from exposing the inmates of their 
stoves to danger; but still the fact remains that the Show was not so 
effective as it should have been—in short the tent was too large for 
the prizes offered. These remarks may appear disparaging—they are 
not meant in that spirit ; the Royal Horticultural Society of late years, 
as it was in years long ago, has ever been the first in carrying out the 
real horticultural work of this country ; but we speak now of the Show 
as a show, and not in reference to utility. In that respect it would 
well hold its own. 

Orchids were far from numerous, a circumstance hardly to be 
wondered at, considering that the exhibition was to be held in a tent, 
and the coldness of the weather. Mr. Ward, gardener to F. G. 
Wilkins, Esq., Leyton, sent in the class for nine, Odontoglossum 
Bluntii with four fine spikes, Oncidium papilio majus, O. ampliatum, 
O. bifolium in fine condition, O. Lanceanum fine, Odontoglossam 
citrosmum roseum, Anguloa Clowesii with eleven flowers, Cattleya 
Mossi, and Dendrobium formosum giganteum. From Mr. Bull, 
Chelsea, came good examples of Odontoglossam Phalenopsis, Sacco- 
Jabium premorsum, Aérides, Odontoglossum Uro-Skinneri, and Cypri- 
pedium barbatum purpuream. Mr. J. Wheeler, gardener to J. Phill- 
pott, Esq., Stamford Hill, had Oncidium leucochilum with a fine 
raceme. Mr, Ward was first, Mr. Bull second, Mr. Wheeler third. 

In the nurserymen’s class for six Mr. Williams was first with Cypri- 
pedium caudatum with thirteen flowers in beautiful condition, a mag- 
nificent example of C. barbatum superbum, Phalenopsis grandiflora, 
Saccolabium retusum with four remarkably fine racemes, Vanda 
suavis, and Lelia purpurata. Mr. Bull, who was second, had a good 
Oncidium Phillipsianum, a very pretty variety of Odontoglossum 
citrosmum, and O. Alexandra, good. Mr. R. Parker, Exotic Nursery, 
Tooting, was third, and had Aérides odoratum blooming very freely, 
Aérides virens superbum, Vanda suayvis, and a good example of the 
old Phajus Wallichi. 

The best single specimen was Cypripedium caudatum from Mr. J. 
Linden, of Brussels, with a score of extraordinarily fine flowers. Se- 
cond came Mr. B. S. Williams, with one of the finest specimens of 
Cattleya lobata ever exhibited; and third, Mr. R. Laing, gardener to 
P. N. Flowers, Esq., Furze Down, Tooting, with a fine Lelia purpu- 
rata rather past. A fourth prize was awarded to Mr. Bull for Cypri- 
pedium niveum with four flowers. 

In the classes for six Stove and Greenhouse Plants, Mr. Ward was 
first in that for amateurs with a beautifully-grown collection, consist- 
ing of his fine specimen Statice profusa, which has been noticed in 
previous reports, Bougainvillea glabra in charming condition, Clero- 
dendron Balfourianum, Erica Cayendishii, a large Dracophyllum 
gracile, and Phenocoma prolifera Barnesii, its rosy everlasting flowers 
remarkably fresh and bright. The second place was taken by Mr. J. 
Wheeler with well-grown plants of the four last-named, Stephanotis 
floribunda, and Aphelexis rosea; Mr. G. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. 
Goldsmid, Bart., M.P., Regent's Park, coming in third. In the 
nurserymen’s class equal first prizes were given to Messrs. Jackson 
and Son, of Kingston, and Mr. E. Morse, of Epsom. ‘he former 
had a splendid specimen of Phcenocoma prolifera, Erica tricolor dumosa, 
very large and fine, Stephanotis floribunda, and Aphelexis macrantha 
purpurea. In Mr. Morse’s collection were excellent plants of Clero- 
dendron Balfourianum, the beautiful Dipladenia amabilis, and Bou- 
gainyillea glabra covered with its rosy bracts. 

Of Fine-foliaged Plants and Ferns several excellent collections were 
shown. Among the former were very good specimens of Yucca aloi- 
folia variegata, Encephalartos Ghellinckii, Chamerops humilis, Dick- 
sonia antarctica, Zamia Lehmanni, Corypha australis, Rhopala cor- 
covadense, Sabal Blackburniana, Cycas revoluta, Dracena indivisa, 
Marantas, Dasylirions, and a yery large Beaucarnea stricta from Mr. 
Kellock. The prizetakers were, for nine—first, Mr. Bull; second, M. 
Dalliére, of Ghent; third, Mr. Taylor, Lauderdale House, Highgate. 
The last-named was first for six, Mr. Kellock, Stamford Hill. being 
second, and Mr. Tibbles, gardener to A. Haines, Esq., third. Of 
hardy Ferns, Mr. Chaff, gardener to A. Smee, Esq., Wallington, sent 
plants in fine health of Struthiopteris germanica, Polypodium dry- 
opteris, Scolopendrium cristato-digitatum, Hymenophyllum tunbridg- 
ense, Trichomanes radicans, Athyrium Tilix-fomina Iveryanum, 

taking first prizes both for twelve and for six. For the former Mr. 


James was second, and Mr. C. Smith, Manor House, East Acton, 
third. In the latter class Mr. James was third, and Mr. G. Wheeler 
fourth. In the nurserymen’s class Messrs. Ivery & Son, were first 
with a beantiful collection, in which Athyrium F.-f. pulchellum, Ver- 
noni, and plumosum were conspicuous by their fine, graceful appear- 
ance. Messrs. Jackson were second. 

Roses in pots, from Mr. Turner, of Slough, were in great beauty, 
Souvenir d’un Ami, Paul Verdier, Juno, and Marguerite de St. Amand, 
were especially fine. Messrs. Paul & Son had fine specimens of 
Charles Lawson and others. 

The only exhibitor of six Liliums was Mr. Bull, who had a first 
prize for Lilium Thunbergianum punctatum, orange red and orange ; 
L. Thunbergianum bicolor, very fine, orange and buff; L. giganteum, 
white and crimson; L. umbellatum, and L. auratum. These were 
all well grown and in excellent bloom. 

Of the Azaleas the best came from Mr. Woodward, gardener to 
Mrs. Torr, Ewell, who was first both for six and fifteen. 

In cut blooms of Roses, Mr. Turner, Messrs. Paul & Son, and Mr. 
Soder showed fine examples; and Mr. Parker and Mr. Goddard, 
Ponies and Pyrethrums. 

The miscellaneous subjects were tolerably numerous, and yery in- 
teresting, although most of them have been before noticed. Messrs. 
Veitch had the first prize in this class for a large and fine collection, 
comprising several fine Orchids, Nepenthes Sedeni, Begonia Sedeni, 
Crotons, &ec., together with cut specimens of Fremontia californica, 
which, so far as we are aware, they have been the first to exhibit in 
flower. Mr. Williams, of Holloway, came second, also with a fine 
collection, in which were asplendid Anthurium Scherzerianum, Uro- 
pedium Lindeni, and several other Orchids, together with a number 
of choice fine-foliaged plants. Mr. Bull was third with Orchids and 
fine-foliaged plants. In his collection was the singular but not pretty 
Godwinia gigas. 

Mr. C. Noble, of Bagshot, sent, not for competition, a remarkably 
fine group of Rhododendron The Queen, the plants forming gorgeous 
masses of bloom. From Messrs. John Waterer & Son, of Bagshot, 
came several Rhododendrons, of which one named Helen Waterer, 
yermilion with a rose throat, was very showy, and Baroness Schroder, 
bright rose, was also very free-flowering. The same firm also con- 
tributed boxes of cut blooms of hardy Azaleas and Rhododendrons, 
likewise specimens of several Retinosporas, of which plumosa and its 
variety aurea were very handsome. ‘That called variegata was most 
distinctly tipped with white. 

Mr. James, of Isleworth, sent excellent herbaceous Calceolarias, 
Messrs. F. & A. Smith, of Dulwich, twenty-four Tricolor Pelargoniums. 
From M. Dalliére, of Ghent, came a large collection of Palms and 
other fine-foliaged plants, Conifers, &c.; from Mr. Mann, of Brent- 
wood, a number of new Zonal Pelargoniums, of which one named 
Amabilis was of a very brilliant scarlet; and Mr. Little, Twickenham, 
a nice group of double Pyrethrums. Mr. Parker, Tooting, sent these, 
Ponies, and other hardy plants similar to those exhibited in his fine 
collection at the Regent’s Park. Several extra prizes were awarded, 
which will be found in the prize list given in another column. 


Fruit.—Prizes were offered for collections of eight dishes of fruit ; 
but the only exhibitor was Mr. Lynn, gardener to Lord Boston, Hed- 
sor, who had a first prize for a good-sized Queen Pine Apple, excellent 
Black Prince Grapes, Sweetwater Grapes, Royal Ascot Melon, Royal 
George Peaches, Violette Hative Nectarines, Black Tartarian Cherries, 
and Dr. Hogg Strawberries. 

For three Queen Pine Apples Mr. Ward, gardener to T. N. Miller, 
Esq., Bishop Stortford, had a first prize for well-grown fruit weighing 
respectively 4} lbs., 4} lbs., and 41bs. 6 ozs. Fora single Pine of any 
variety the first prize went to Mr. R. H. Smith, gardener to H. Walker, 
Esq., Calderstone, Liverpool, for a heavy Providence well ripened ; 
the second to Mr. Ward, gardener to T. N. Miller, Esq., for a remark- 
ably fine Queen weighing 5 lbs. 14 ozs.; and the third to Mr. Miles, 
gardener to Lord Carrington, Wycombe Abbey, for a Smooth-leaved 
Cayenne of 5 lbs. 

The best basket of Grapes of not less than 12 Ibs. came from Mr. 
Osborne, Kay’s Nursery, Finchley, and consisted of large-berried, beau- 
tifully coloured Black Hamburghs. Mr. Bannerman, gardener to 
Lord Bagot, Blithfield, Rugeley, who was second, had also a very good 
basket ; and the third prize went to Mr. Coleman, gardener to Harl 
Somers, Eastnor Castle. These, too, were very fine, though not so 
black as some of the others. 

With one exception, that of Royal Ascot, the only Black Grapes 
shown were Black Hamburgh, and these in all cases were very good. 
Mr. Bannerman, gardener to Lord Bagot, was first with large beauti- 
fully finished bunches; Mr. Douglas, gardener to F. Whitbourn, Esq., 
Loxford Hall, Ilford, second; and Mr. Coleman third, these being 
excellent bunches, though not so even in berry nor so well colonred as 
in the other two prize dishes. Mr. Thomas, gardener to Mr. Wright, 
Lee, Mr. Baldwin, and others, sent well-grown bunches, but not large, 
and Messrs. Standish & Co., Ascot, their Royal Ascot, very compact 
and excellent in colour. . 

For White Grapes Mr. Douglas was first with large well-ripened 
bunches of Buckland Sweetwater; Muscat of Alexandria, exceedingly 
well ripened for this time of year, from Messrs. Standish & Co., came 
second; third came Mr. G. Sage, gardener to Earl Brownlow, with 
large bunches of Buckland Sweetwater, but not so ripe as those of Mr. 
Douglas; and a fourth prize was given to Mr. Osborne, Finchley, for 


June 8, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


401 


—— i SSS 


the same kind. Mr. Jack, gardener to the Duke of Cleveland, Battle 
Abbey, exhibited Golden Hamburgh; aud Mr. Thomas, gardener to 
Mrs. Drake, Bignell, Bicester, very fine bunches of Muscat of Alex- 
andria, but totally unripe. 

Of Melons about a score were shown. The best in the green-fleshed 
class came from Mr.-Burnett, gardener to Mrs. Hope, The Deepdene, 
Dorking; the second best was Wilson’s Hybrid, from Mr. Ward; and 
the third, a small fruit of Hybrid Cashmere, from Mr, Lynn, Hedsor. 
‘Two large fruit of Prince of Wales, a cross between Meredith’s Hybrid 
Cashmere and Heckfield Hybrid, were shown by Mr. Masters, gardener 
‘to the Earl of Macclesfield, Sherborne Castle. In scarlet-fleshed, Mr. 
Masters was first with a large finely-netted kind, apparently Royal 
Ascot ; second, Mr. Lynn, with Gem. 

Of Peaches and Nectarines a number of excellent dishes were shown. 
‘The best dish of Peaches was Grosse Mignonne, large and finely 
coloured, from Mr. Brown, gardener to Earl Howe, Gopsall Hall, 
Atherstone ; Noblesse, also fine, from Mr. Harris, gardener to G. A. 
Ashby, Esq., Naseby Woolleys, was second; and an excellent dish of 
Royal George from Mr. Miles, gardener to Lord Carrington, third. 
In Nectarines, Violette Hative, large and splendidly coloured, from 
Mr. Lynn, gardener to Lord Boston, was first; next came Mr. Miles, 
with fine fruit of Royal George, also highly coloured ; and third, Mr. 
‘Turner, of Slough, with Hunt’s Tawny. ‘The only other kind shown 
was Elruge. 

Of Figs there were only three dishes. The first prize went to ex- 
cellent Brown Ischia from Mr. Miles; the second to Brown Turkey 
from Mr. Sage, Ashridge. 

In Cherries, Mr. Miles, gardener to Lord Carrington, was first with 
a splendid dish of Black Tartarian ; second, Mr. Lynn, with a fine 
dish of Elton. 

In Strawberries, Mr. Douglas, Loxford Hall, and Mr. Miles, were re- 
‘spectively first and second, the one with British Queen, the other with 
‘Sir Charles Napier, both very large and beautifully ripened. 

In the miscellaneous class, Mr. Gardiner, gardener to P. Shirley, 
Hsq., Lower Eatington Park, had a second prize for two dishes of 
Royal George Peach, not large but very well ripened; and a splendid 
dish of Tomatoes, from Mr. Miles, was third. 

Prizes were offered by Messrs. Carter & Co., of High Holborn, for 
three dishes of early Peas, to include Alpha and Invicta. The first 
was taken by Mr. G. Brown, gardener to E. Mackenzie, Esq., Fawley 
Court, Henley, with the two named, and Little Gem, the pods of the 
latter remarkably well filled; the second prize went to Mr. Garland, 
gardener to Sir f. D. Acland, Bart., Killerton, for Sangster’s No. 1, 
and the two sorts named. 


Frurr Commrrree.—G. F. Wilson, Esq., inthe chair. Mr.'Temple, 
gardener, Markinch, Balbirnie, sent a bunch of Lady Downe’s Seedling 
Grape cut in November last, and the stalk kept in a bottle of water 
since that time. It was in good preservation, of full flavour, and 
received the special commendation of the Committee. Mr. Temple 
farther sent examples of Apples grown in the gardens of W. Ballagall, 
Esq., Fife, in good preservation. Mr. J. Parker, The Gardens, Mount 
Vernon, Barnsley, sent a dish of Cox’s Orange Pippin, the flavour of 
which was gone. Mr. Gardiner, The Gardens, Lower Eatington Park, 
Stratford-on-Avon, sent a collection of Apples in very good condition, 
to which a special certificate was awarded. 

Mr. J. Batters, gardener to J. W. Fleming, Esq., Chilworth Manor, 
sent a dish of Strawberry Dr. Hogg, of fair size and poor flavour. 

Mr. R. T. Veitch, nurseryman, Exeter, sent’ examples of a Fig, 
stated to be new, which proved to be the true Brunswick. 

Mr. Douglas, gardener, Loxford Hall, Ilford, Essex, sent an example 
of a white-fleshed Melon named Loxford Hall. Mr. G. Skinner, gar- 
dener to C. W. Finzel, Esq., Frankfort Hall, Clevedon, sent a seed- 
ling Melon from Canada, which proved of poor flavour. 

Mr. Cox, gardener, Madresfield Court, Great Malvern, sent exam- 
ples of a Cabbage Lettuce, called the New Paris Market Lettuce, fine 
firm close heart. 

The Rey. C. C. Ellison, Bracebridge Vicarage, Lincoln, exhibited 
examples of a Lettuce considered to be new, but which the Committee 
thought considerably resembled the Red-edged Drumhead. The hearts 
were very firm and solid, and had stood the winter well. 

Messrs. Barr & Sugden sent examples of the following sorts of 
Parsley :—Light Moss Curled, Hurst’s Hybrid Moss Curled, Cattell’s 
Exquisite Curled, Earley’s Selected Double, Dark Moss Curled, Tyn- 
ingham Extra Curled, and Curled. 

Mr. Tillery, Welbeck, sent three bunches of Lady Downe’s Seedling 
Grape in very splendid condition, and of good flavour. These had 
been cut three months, and the ends of the shoots kept in a bottle of 
water for that time. A special certificate was awarded. Mr. Tillery 
further exhibited a small bunch of Foster’s White Seedling of this 
season’s growth, and a fine dish of Hunt’s Tawny Nectarine, Sir C. 
Napier Strawberries, and May Duke Cherries, for which the Committee 
awarded a special certificate. 


Frorat Commirrer —Dr. Denny in the chair. Mr. Masters, gar- 
dener to the Earl of Macclesfield, received a first-class certificate for 
Perpetual Clove Miss Joliffe, noticed in a previous report; Mr. 
‘Turner, Slough, a second-class certificate for Lady Blanche Pink, a 
very fine white variety. Mr. Foster, Clewer Manor, had first-class 
certificates for Pelargoniums Cesar, Conquest, Lord Byron, Achieve- 
ment, and Biue Bell; and Mr. William Paul for Lady Dorothy 


Nevill, Silver Tricolor; Wellington, Nosegay, with large deep crimson 
scarlet flowers, very fine; Sir C. Napier, scarlet, with flowers quite 
2 inches in diameter, and Mont Blanc; a second-class one for Ianthe 
magenta tinged scarlet, beautiful in colour. 

First-class certificates were given to Mr. J. Linden, of Brussels, for 
Dracena lutescens stricta, Acer palmatum crispum, A. palmatum 
roseum dissectum, Xanthosoma Lindeni, and a second-class for Epi- 
dendrum paniculatum. M. Mackoy, of Liége, had similar awards for 
Lycopodiam mandiocanum, L. laxifolium, L. dichotomum, and Til- 
landsia Morreniana. 

Mr. George, gardener to Miss Nicholson, Putney Heath, sent several 
Pelargoniums, of which Flame, Nosegay scarlet, received a first-class 
certificate, and Polly King, pale salmon, of good shape, had one of 
the second class. Double Petunia Pantaloon, very double and ex- 
tremely showy, one of the numerous yarieties raised by Mr. Barron at 
Chiswick, was awarded a first-class certificate, and a special was given 
to Chysis aurea flowered in the Society’s garden. Mr. W. Thompson, 
Ipswich, had a second-class certificate for Lathyrus Sibthorpii, a pretty 
purple-flowered perennial from Greece. 

A special certificate was awarded to Messrs. Veitch for specimens of 
Lelia majalis; and one to Messrs. Jackman, of Woking, for a fine 
collection of cut blooms of Clematis from the open air. Messrs. 
Carter & Co. had a second-class certificate for Solanum ciliatum, re- 
cently figured in this Journal; Mr. Bull a first-class certificate for 
Oncidium eryptocopis; Mr. Croucher a similar award for Agave re- 
voluta variegata, slightly tinged with yellowish green over a broad 
band at the margin, and a special certificate for his collection of 
Agaves. Mr. Bull sent a number of new plants recently exhibited, 
Messrs. Cripps cut blooms of Clematis, and Messrs. Barr & Sugden 
a large collection of blooms of Lilies and Irises. 

The following Ferns from Messrs. Ivery & Son received first-class 
certificates—yviz., Polypodium vulgare Whytei and Polystichum an- 
gulare pulchrum Bellairsie, Athyrium Filiz-femina trifidum, a pretty 
variety, one of the second-class. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


HorticunturaL DEPARTMENT OF THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL 
Exutairron, 1871.—1. By a Minute of Council, dated April 6th, 1870, 
the following gentlemen were appointed, with the sanction of Her 
Majesty's Commissioners for the International Exhibition, to act as 
Permanent Secretaries of the horticultural section of the London Inter- 
national Exhibition, the management of which is vested in the hands of 
the Royal Horticultural Society, namely :—Dr. Hogg, F.L.S., for the 
Fruit Department; Dr. Masters, F.R.S., for the foreign division of the 
Floral Department ; T. Moore, Esq., F.L.S., for the home division of 
the Floral Department. These gentlemen have been accordingly deputed 
to carry out all the necessary arrangements, and to conduct all corre- 
spondence relating thereto. 2. Foreign horticulturists may enter and 
exhibit novelties or any other objects of interest at any meetings of the 
Fruit or Floral Committee. 3. Such foreign horticulturists as may be 
accredited to represent their respective countries at the London Exhibi- 
tion, or who may attend in the capacity of distinguished visitors, will 
be installed pro tem. as members of the Scientific Fruit or Floral Com- 
mittee, and will be invited to join in their deliberations, conforming at 
the same time to the general regulations of the respective Committees, 
which require that members should retire while subjects in which they 
are personally interested are being adjudicated upon. 4. The Secre- 
taries will form, ez officio, the nucleus of an international -jury for the 
adjudication of all foreign novelties exhibited in this department ; and 
in order that nothing of importance may be overlooked, or may fail to 
receive full consideration, they will at each meeting during the season 
(May to October) invite the assistance of such members (home or 
foreign) of the Fruit and Floral Committees respectively as may be 
known to be authorities on the merits of the particular classes of flowers 
or fruits to be exhibited. 5. The permanent exhibitions will bejudged 
in the manner already indicated, so far as the conditions will admit. 
They will be examined at the first meeting in each month (May to 
October), and marks will be recorded at each examination in favour of 
the meritorious features of each competing exhibition, which marks 
will be summed up at the end of the season, and the rewards distributed 
accordingly. In addition to this, a medal may also be awarded to any 
exhibitor for any specially meritorious display noted during the season. 
6. The awards made to novelties shown by foreign exhibitors will consist 
of the usual certificates (first and second class) granted by the Society 
for similar subjects. 7. When foreigners exhibit in the classes defined 
in the Society’s schedule, they must conform to the general regulations, 
but those who compete successfully may, if they desire it, on notification 
to the Secretary, obtain medals instead of the money prizes. 8. The 
prizes awarded for the permanent exhibitions, as well as those to 
foreigners for special exhibitions, hors de concowrs, such as (1) groups 
of new plants, Orchids, Palms, Apples, Pears, or any similar prominent 
subjects; (2) miscellaneous or mixed groups of plants, flowers, or 
fruits; or (3) remarkable individual specimens, will consist of medals. 
Those who may desire to commute the medals for money or articles of 
value must notify the same to the respective Secretaries before the 
close of the season. 9. In forwarding objects for exhibition (especially 
flowers or perishable fruits), when they are not accompanied by a 
person in charge, exhibitors are advised to take especial care to forward 
the bill of lading in due time to the Assistant-Secretary, James Rich- 


402 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 8, 1871. 


ards, at the Society’s Offices, South Kensington, as in default of the 
receipt of this document delay has already in some cases taken place 
in the delivery of perishable objects sent for exhibition. 10. In ail 
. other respects, and in so far as they apply, foreigners will be guided by 
the general regulations of the Society’s Exhibitions, as printed in the 
schedules. 
Messrs. James Canter & Co. liberally offer upwards of 
£100 in prizes for SpecmreEN Roots of Mangel, Swedes, Kohl 
Rabi, Turnip, &., grown from seed supplied by them, and 
will be glad to give any further information that may be desired 
by intending competiters. The roots will be judged on the 
premises, at 237, High Holborn, by practical farmers, on Friday, 
November 24th, and the prize roots will be on view at Messrs. 
Cartez’s stand in the north gallery at the annual Smithfield 
Clab Show in December. 

—— Margret Garpentne In Connwatt.—Every year the 
number of acres cultivated in West Cornwall for the supply of 
the London market is increasing, and now a very large extent 
of ground is thus devoted. Three trucks of fine Strawberries 
have been forwarded this week, and during the twelve months 
ended on the 27th of May last about 3800 tons of Broccoli and 
above 3000 tons of Potatoes were despatched by rail, principally 
to the metropolis. In the immediate neighbourhood of Gulyval, 
near Penzance, twenty-five acres are covered by Gooseberry 
bushes. The cultivation of Strawberries is being very con- 
siderably increased. 


THE GAYEST OF AMERICAN WILD FLOWERS. 


I sr going to write an account of the members of the American 
flora which are famous for beauty and fit for British gardens. At 
the present time, when herbaceous and alpine plants are fast becoming 
fashionable, and the ordinary system of bedding is giving up part of 
the prominent position it held a few years ago, I feel sure that any 
information regarding the fresh candidates for admiration will be wel- 
come to many. My remarks will all be the result of observations 


taken amidst the living realities just as these occur in their native | 


haunts. It may take a long time for me to accomplish this under- 
taking, Lut if I am spared I shall proceed steadily until my task is 
finished, and always endeavour to do my work faithfully. 

In Kentucky, one of the earliest of the flowers of spring is Claytonia 
yirginica, or Spring-beauty, or Glad-tidings. It may be in England 
or Scotland, but I never saw it there; and yet it should be grown 
everywhere, for it is one of the most perfect little gems imaginable. 
No spot comes amiss to it, and it is the Daisy of this region. Woods, 
in which the soil is a rich deep loam, furnish all it desires, but itis not 
in the least afraid to take the open pastures where the soil is as hard 
as a road, and it is quite plentiful on cultivated ground. Claytonia 
perfoliata and Claytonia sibirica are common in European gardens, 
but they have the misfortune to be annuals. This species has the 
great advantage of being perennial ; and the corm which enables it to 
be so is sometimes buried 2 inches underground. The leaves are 
linear-lanceolate, and have a good deal of succulency about them. A 
specimen which is 5 inches above the ground may be considered rather 
more than the average size. The stem bears at its apex a consider- 
able raceme of flowers, and a little way down are a couple of opposite 
leaves. The corolla is about as large as that of an ordinary scarlet 
Pelargonium, and the petals are very neat and spreading, white, or 
between white and a delicate pink, with a little yellow near the base. 
The veins of the petals are rose-coloured, and then the blossoms 
glisten when the sunlight playsupon them. The anthers are of a rich 
ted tint. I cannot describe the charm which this little plant gives to 
the places in which it abounds. 

By the side of the preceding grows Viola cncullata, and it, too, is at 
its gayest late in March or earlyin April. This is none of your modest 
Violets retiring and hiding in the shade, and the sun shines on no 
brighter or richer blue than that of the corolla of this plant. Out in 
the meadows, amongst the pure green young leaves of Poa pratensis, 
this has no peer at this time of year. In my efforts after the applica- 
tion of generalisations, I remember how I used to spoil this lovely 
Plant when I had charge of it at Kew. Along with many more 
requiring the same sort of treatment as this, I put it beneath the dark 
shadow of an ugly screen, and indulged in a lot of other foolishnesses, 
such as putting many little stones about its roots. This last, however, 
was performed at the bidding ofanother. I am going to be very candid 
and tell my mistakes, feeling certain that this is the best way to put 
others on their guard. 

Martinsia virginica.—It is now early in April, and this plant is at 
the zenith of its beauty. Often, as I wander along through the woods 
in which it is fonnd, I wish that some of my friends in Britain—any 
lover of herbaceous plants, like Mr. Niven, of Hull, or Mr. Sutherland 
—could be with me to enjoy so rich a treat as that which is afforded 
by a quantity of this in full flower. I have referred to it as a forest 
plant, but I may. add that it stands exposure well. I got ample proof 
of this the other day. Ina little garden in the vicinity of Lexington 
T saw a bed of it in full bloom, as healthy as could be, and quite open 
to the sun during the whole day. And this is not by any means a 


small plant. It rises 2 feet above the ground, and is, therefore, when 
othér things are taken into account, admirably adapted for a mixed 
border, and would look glorious anywhere. Iam not certain that it 
would care about much shifting—a practice I have heard landed with- 
out stint. The leaves have all the delicacy of tint of Funkia grandi- 
flora, and they are quite as large as those of that plant. The stem, 
bearing at its summit the raceme of flowers, has foliage all the way up- 
I feel certain that I cannot do anything like justice to the corolla. It 
is about 1 inch long, and comparatively narrow for the greater part of 
its length ; it widens towards the mouth, and ultimately becomes a 
quarter of an inch across, and cup-shaped, whilst throughout it is 


almost transparent, and of an exquisite blue or pink colour. In con-- 


clusion, I believe that this must be a scarce plant in England, and it 

was not in Kew Gardens in 1870. I need hardly add that, being 2 

nave of Kentucky, itis certain to be quite hardy in any part of Great 
ritain. 

When Viola cucullata begins to decline, Viola striata starts to ex- 
pand its cream-coloured blossoms. The stem of the former species 
never rises above the ground, but it is otherwise with the stem of this 
one. Though not so gay, nor yet so capable of producing a large 
quantity of flowers as the earlier kind already referred to, still it well 
deserves attention wherever a pleasing variety is maintained by means 
of well-marked species. In short, no loyer of good hardy herbaceous 
plants can afford to be without this. The same may be said of Viola 
pubescens, which is produced sparingly hereabouts, and may be mown 
immediately from any other American Viola by its yellow corolla, re- 
minding one of a small form of Viola lutea. The two species now 
under consideration have not yet been found by me ont of woods in 
which the soil is a rich loam, as deep as you like, and without a stone. 

One evening, early in April, I went out on a short botanical excur— 
sion, and was rewarded by finding any quantity of Trillium sessile, and 
a considerable amount of Phlox divaricata, and both in full blossom, 
and growing in a wood without much shade ; although I have observed 
that the vitality was by far the greatest where protection most abounded, 
and indeed I have not been able to meet with these plants on cleared 
lands. 

Trillium sessile, like all the members of the curious and beautiful 
genus to which it belongs, has first three leaves in a whorl, then three 
sepals, next three pistils, afterwards come six stamens, and finally three 
carpels forming the pistil. The flowers, the leaves, the sepals, and 
the petals of this species are all sessile: and hence the trivial name is 
sound, inasmuch as it is descriptive. The leaves of this, in addition 
to being sessile, are ovate, and very often marked with large black 
spots, such as occur on Arum maculatum. The petals grow erect, or 
nearly so, are lanceolate, about an inch long and of a dark purplisk 
colour, and this last is also true of the inner side of the sepals, the 
outer side of these being nearly green. The specimens which I saw 
were never above 7 inches high. 

Well deserving of every attention as Trillium sessile is, it is not 
nearly so lovely a plantas Phlox divaricata. This was a great favourite 
with me, even when I Imew it endeavouring to grow in a pot half full 
of drainage, and having the soil dried off in the winter time. It is, 
however, an undeniable fact, that to be admired as it deserves, it 
should be seen springing freely and faultless from its native soil, and 
surrounded by, and mixed with, its appropriate associates. What 2 
gem this would make for a rockwork! It should have a nook into 
which the extremely intense rays of the mid-day sun never go, and it 
could hardly fail to do admirably if set ont in a plantation, and cared 
for until it took root. It is nota tall plant, as I have not observed 
any above 1 foot high. It may be known from any other perennial 
American Phlox by the corolla, the lobes of which are notched at the 
end, and by the leaves being remote. The corolla is of a pale lilac or 
bluish purple colour, and about as Jarge as that of the common Texan 
annual Phlox Drummondi.—Joun Duncan, Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. 
(in The Gardener). 


DINNER axp PRESENTATION 10 MR. THOMSON, 
DALKEITH GARDENS. 


On the 31st of May a complimentary dinner was given to Mr. W. 
Thomson, on the occasion of his leaving Dalkeith Gardens to superin- 
tend his extensive vineyards on Tweedside, and a presentation was 
made to him of two hundred sovereigns, and a handsome service of 
silver plate, richly chased, and bearing Mr. Thomson's initials. The 
silver plate bore the following inscription :— 

“ Presented, along with a purse of two hundred sovereigns, to Wm. 
Thomson, Esq., on the occasion of his leaving Dalkeith Gardens to 
superintend his extensive vineyards on Tweedside, by a number of 
attached friends ia Scotland, England, and Ireland, to mark the high 
regard in which they hold him—on personal, professional, and public 
grounds ; and the warm wishes they entertain for his future suecess and 
happiness. May 31, 1871.” 

The meeting was held in Waterloo Hotel. Mr. Alexander Mitchell, 
Dalkeith, occupied the chair. 

The Chairman, after giving the usual loyal and patriotic toasts, and 
the healths of the Duke and Duchess of Bueclench, then said—I come 
now to the toast of the evening—the health of onr esteemed and re- 
spected guest. The propriety of the course we are now taking need 
scarcely be pointed out, for I have met with no one to whom this yery 
course did not suggest itself the moment Mr. Thomson’s purpose 


~~ orerEgE 5 


June §, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 403 


of leaving Dalkeith became known. It could not be otherwise. 


[Applause.] The testimonial about to be presented is the joint con- | 
tribution of three hundred individuals resident in Scotland, England, | 


and Ireland, and it is but right to say that the value of these con- 


tributions has been much enhanced by the friendly and affectionate | 


terms in which, when transmitting them, they have referred to the 
character and claims of Mr. Thomson. [Applause.] The subscriptions 
handed to the Treasurers amount to £330; and this amount, partly 
in gold and partly in silver plate—deducting, of course, the necessary 
expenses and the gifts for the Misses Thomson—it will be my privilege, 
before sitting down, to present to Mr. Thomson. The inscription on 
the testimonial bears that it is presented on personal, professional, and 
public grounds ; and in this combination of claims on the part of our 
guest consists, undoubtedly, the real significance of the-movement and 
the real value of the gift. I cannot speak with authority of the strictly 
professional claims of Mr. Thomson, nor can that be necessary in the 
presence of so many skilful horticulturists. These will be the readiest 
to acknowledge that Mr. Thomson stands, and has long stood, at the 
very head of his profession; that he has done incomparably more for 


gardening in this country than any other man; and that, while he | 


thas elevated the social and scientific condition of the gardener, he has, 
at the same time, by his urbanity and helpfulness, by his recognition 
of practical merit, and his readiness to promote and reward it, won 
for himself in a remarkable degree the esteem, confidence, and grati- 
tude of his professional brethren. [Cheers.] An interesting illustra- 
tion of this occurred a few years ago, when nine of Mr. Thomson’s old 
foremen—then resident ata great distance from him and from each 
other—joined in presenting him with a handsome and valuable testi- 
monial, expressive of the esteem and gratitude which they continued 
to cherish towards their former chief. That proceeding, we must all 
feel, was highly honourable to both parties—to the master, as evincing 
the genuine kindness of his rule; and to the foremen, for their grateful 
recollection of his free and improving service. [Applause.] It is 
gratifying to add that most of the names inscribed on that earlier testi- 
monial occur again in the list of subscribers to the testimonial of the 
evenins—a circumstance which will no doubt enhance its value in the 
estimation of Mr. Thomson, showing, as it does, that kindly relations 
once established in Dalkeith Gardens remain unaffected by change of 
residence and by lapse of time. [Cheers.] It only remains, in a 
closing sentence, to refer to those public services of our esteemed guest, 
of which, no less than of his personal and professional merits, these 
testimonials must be regarded as the recognition. There are few de- 
partments of public usefulness in which, during his sixteen-years resi- 
dence amongst us, Mr. Thomson has not taken a prominent place. In 
ali movements with a view to social or sanitary improvement, to the 
spread of scientific education, or to the expression of public sentiment 
on matters of benevolent, loyal, patriotic, or national interest, Mr. 
Thomson might always be counted on for warm sympathy and impor- 
tant practical service. [Applause.] And hence the alacrity with which 
the friends who have been associated with him in public labours have 
united with those related to him only by personal and professional ties 
in expressing their high esteem for his character, and their grateful 
sense of the value of his services. [Applause.] Permit me now, Mr. 
Thomson, in name of the friends present and absent who have con- 
tributed to this testimonial, to ask you to accept of the same, and to 
receive from me, in their name, the assurance of our cordial esteem, 
our grateful sense of the services you have rendered to the community, 
and our warm and friendly wishes for your success and happiness in 
the extensive and important enterprise in which you are about to 
engage. [Cheers. | 


The presentation was made amid great cheering. 


Mr. Thomson rose, amid loud cheers, to reply. He said that he 
had now for a long course of years followed an arduous pursuit—a 
pursuit requiring great mental and bodily exercise—and he certainly 
had to-day received an unexpected reward for his labours. He had 
only had two employers in his lifetime, and he had every reason to 
believe that he received and retained their confidence. [ Applause. ] 
That of itself was sufficient reward for anything he had been able to 
do. He had received nnexampled kindness from gentlemen in various 
zanks of society ; and to be in contact with many of these and asso- 
ciate with them, would be a sufficient reward to any man for any extra 
Jabour he might take in promoting whatever science he might be con- 
nected with. [Applause.] That he had been useful in some degree 
to the inhabitants of Dalkeith he was ready toadmit. He believed that 
anything he had done in that way had had their Graces’ consent, and 
that, therefore, any thanks were not so much due to him and to any- 
‘thing within himself as to the liberality of those whom it was his 
honour to serve. [Applause.] As to his connection with horticulture, 
and especially to the men under him, he believed that they had num- 
bered between two and three hundred; and he was happy to say that, 
outside of his own family, his greatest pleasure had been in his con- 
tact with his men. [Applause.] Of all that number, as far as he 
could remember, he had not had occasion to dismiss above three or 
four for any misconduct, and not one of them was ever guilty of a 
crime that came to his knowledge. Many of them were occupying the 
first positions in the kingdom in the calling they followed. One of 
them was with the Queen at Frogmore, another with the Duke of 
Devonshire ; his brother was at Drumlanrig, and Mr. Knight at Floors 
Castle. He could mention a long list of noblemen to whom he had 
supplied gardeners ; and he believed that in every case they had given 


satisfaction. [Applause.] If he had accomplished nothing more in 
a comparatively long and arduous life than the training and bringing 
into good social pesition in the calling they followed of so many ex- 
cellent men, he would have felt that he had not laboured in vain. 
[Applause.] No man could occupy the position he had so long filled 
—for nearly thirty-four years now as master—without domg something 
towards the promotion of horticulture. He had done what lay in his 
power to advance that noble art; for, after all their flights of fancy 
and fine philosophies, they must return to the earth for their sus- 
tenance. He held that horticulture was the pioneer of all successful 
cultivation ; and the only thing which he regretted in the part of it 
to which he belonged, was the want of a proper definition as to what a 
gardener was. Every man who handled a spade or a knife was called 
a gardener; it would be as well to call every buteher a doctor. 
{Laughter.] But a man to be a scientific horticulturist required a 
course of study not very different from that required by the medical 
profession. In fact, as surgeons, the gardeners were before the medical 
profession. [Laughter and applause.] For instance, if they met 
with a tree with a bad head, they cut it off at once, and put on a good 
one. [Laughter and cheers.] The doctors had not arrived at that 
yet, and when they did, there would be a great demand for good ones. 
[Renewed laughter and cheers.]| Mr. Thomson made some further 
remarks expressive of his gratitude for the kindness which had been 
extended to him, and his pleasure at seeing so many present from a 
distance to testify their respect for himself. He resumed his seat 
amid loud cheers. 


SOME PREDATORY INSECTS OF OUR 
GARDENS.—No. 10. 


In again entering upon the subject of predatory insevts I feel 
constrained to state, regretfully and respectfully, that I must 
decline to bestow any commendations on the numerous pro- 
prietary compounds which are advertised as being of value for 
the destruction of the gardener’s foes. Some of these, in the 
form of powders, liquids, &¢., may be very good, for anything I 
know; but as their composition is, generally speaking, a matter 
of doubt, and as a eulogy of any one of these might look as if 
I had received ‘‘ backsheesh” to put in a puff by the way, I. 
shall let them all pass. Those which have really good qualities 
may speak for themselves in the words of one of the Homeric 
heroes as translated by Pope, and say, 

“ Praise from a friend and censure from a foe 
Are lost on hearers who our merits know.” 

One other remark in passing to the insects I wish to com- 
ment upon in this paper. I was reminded recently by a friend’s 
query that there is a misapprehension prevalent amongst some 
persons, to the effect that grasshoppers are very injurious to 
gardens, should they be abundant there. In the first place, 
let it be noted that they are rarely to be found in gardens in 
any numbers, being more partial to lanes and grassy places. 
In the second place, when they do occur in the gardener’s 
domain they eat the leaves of trees, but very unfrequently at- 
tack flowers, vegetables, or fruits. In fact, the great green 
grasshopper (A. viridissima), might be rather encouraged as a 
gardener’s friend, for it is now fully believed that this species 
preys occasionally on smaller insects. No doubt one cause, 
perhaps the cause, of this supposition is the similarity in form 
between the grasshoppers and the locust, as ordinarily seen in 
figures, though almost unknown in actual existence in these 
islands. Occasionally, too, accounts have appeared, copied 
from foreign or colonial newspapers, of the ravages committed 
by what are called grasshoppers, though really they are insects 
belonging to other orthopterous species; so that, when taking 
2 country stroll in the summer, the horticulturist may listen to 
the rather monotonous ‘‘ zic-zic” or ‘‘zap-zap”’ of the grass- 
hopper, a sound which some people rather admire, and not 
recognise in it the voice of an enemy. 

One thing more, however, by way of addendum. Crickets, 
as even the unscientific perceive, are nearly allied to grass- 
hoppers. Of the mole cricket [havespoken. The field cricket, 
common enough in the localities whence it takes its name, 
confines itself chiefly to them, and cannot be deemed @ destruc- 
tive insect ; but I have strong suspicions that, at least in the 
vicinity of London, the house cricket in spring and summer, 
like its companion the cockroach, takes occasional excursious 
into gardens. Having, some years ago, to pass on several 
evenings through market gardens, or at least along a lane in- 
tersecting these, I heard with some surprise the loud-toned 
chirp of the house cricket. Owing to the dusky light my eyes 
could not verify the report of my ears, but as it was not in the 
least likely that the field cricket occurred there, it must have 
been the domestic species, and it had probably journeyed 
thither from some houses whicl flanked one side of the garden 


404 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ June 8, 1871. 


ground. A hint, therefore, may suggest itself to market gar- 
deners. If you let off part of your land for building purposes, 
beware of the crickets and cockroaches which the tenants may 
introduce into the neighbourhood. 

At last I arrive at the insect I have in view—literally so; at 
least, I had it in view the other day nearer than I wished, 
when, stooping down in my garden, an individual and his fluid 
habitation were jerked from a twig upon my eye, and for a 
time prevented me from seeing anything else. The Cuckoo- 
spit (Cercopis spumaria) is a familiar species to us in the gar- 


Cercopis spumaria. 
a, Perfect insect magnified ; b, froth ; c, larva. 
den and in the open country throughout May and June, when 
it is seen in its larval condition. Little, if any notice, as far 
as I know, is taken of it in books which treat of the insects 
troublesome to the gardener, and yet it is certainly a nuisance, 
for it attaches itself to shrubs, to the produce of the kitchen 
garden, and to flowering plants, diligently extracting the sap, 
but also makes itself unpleasant by transferring its frothy 


Cercopis spumaria magnified. 


envelopment to our person or clothes as already observed. 
We, of an entomological turn, make acquaintance with the 
Cuckoo-spit more frequently than we could wish in our hunts 
after other insects, and should we be engaged at this time of 
the year in sweeping the herbage to obtain beetles or cater- 
pillars, we are sure to find our nets adorned with numerous 


Cuckoo-spits which have been dislodged from their leafy | 


dwelling-places ; in fact, a friend euggests that if the insect is 
still to bear the appellation of the ‘bird of spring,” it should 
henceforth be called, not ‘‘ Cuckoo-spit,”’ but ‘* Cuckoo-spite,” 
as a decided annoyance to the commonweal generally. Bat 
why was it named after the cuckoo at all? Only, perhaps, be- 
cause it shows itself about at the same season of the year 
when the bird’s well-known ery is to be heard. What other 
connection there may be between the two it is not easy to say. 
It is also called the Frog-hopper, according to some authors—not 
so inaptly, perhaps, as the perfect insect has considerable powers 
of leaping. Kirby and Spence, however, call it, not the Frog- 
hopper, but the Frog-spittle, and this name, too, might have 
arisen from the frothy investiture of the larva being often 
abundant on grass, and, therefore, in the vulgar mind perhaps 
attributable to frogs, though how these leapers, agile as they 
are, could convey saliva to shrubs and tall plants on which we 
find the insect at times, is not easy to say. Though most 
noticeable in the early summer, the Cuckoo-spit may likewise be 
observed in its adult condition, when it also attacks the juices 
of plants. On the Begonia, and species of similar charac- 
teristics, Cuckoo-spits will sometimes congregate in September, 
and ejecting, like the larva, part of the moisture in the form 
of small drops, not as a frothy exudation. 

This insect belongs to the Hemipterous order, though some- 
times taken for a beetle by the unscientific, and is therefore a 
relative of that well-known pest the aphis, or ‘‘ fly’ of various 
species. Both the females and males of the Cuckoo-spit or 
Frog-hopper have leaping propensities; the latter especially 
distinguish themselves, passing through the air sometimes for 
several feet. Butit is the economy of the larva which is the 
most interesting part of its history, and in that stage of its 
existence we find the species most troublesome. De Geir 
thinks that the froth in which it is concealed serves chiefly to 


protect it from the intense heat of the sun. Kiiby and others 
point out that it serves also to screen the Cuckoo-spit from 
carnivorous insects andbirds. In spite of this froth the wasp, 
says Kirby, will pounce upon it and carry it off. One thing is 
evident, that the secretion is needful for the life of the larva, 
for when removed from it and deprived of the means of pro- 
ducing more, the Cuckoo-spit speedily collapses and dies. De 
Geir, by close investigation, discovered that this seeming 
saliva is, first of all, drawn from the sap of the leaf or stall 
on which the creature rests, and then exuded from the abdomen 
in the form of a number of minute bubbles, each of which 
contains air, which is prevented from escaping by the adhesive 
nature of the liquid. By working the abdomen up and down 
the insect drives these bubbles in the direction it wishes them 
to be, usually contriving that most of them shall surround the 
front segments of its body. The trunk or proboscis, by which 
the larva obtains its nourishment and its protection, is so con- 
structed as to be an air-tight tube, through which the sap is 
pumped up. The point is sharp, but on each side is an addi- 
tional cutting instrument, which is serrated, and assists the 
action of the trunk. One observer, who examined a number 
under the microscope, reports that a few (about one in ten) 
have a double set of these lancets, and an extra coil of 
muscles in the head. When full-grown the Cuckoo-spit larva 
prepares a sort of cell, in which it becomes a pupa. An onter 
film is formed of a part of the froth, which is suffered to dry, 
and the interior is so disposed as to form a resting place for 
the larva. The state of pupation does not last very long. It 
is fortunate that this species does not seem inclined to multiply 
considerably in our gardens, for no very ready remedy or means 
of checking it suggests itself. The removal of the feeding 
larvee would be a tedious and disagreeable job, and the capture 
of the adult ‘‘ hoppers ” is not easy, owing to their springiness, 
already alluded to. 

The Asparagus season has now commenced, and people of 
almost every grade manage to vet a taste, at least, of this. 
delicacy, which usually keeps up its price in the market pretty 
steadily. The cause of this is, I suppose, in a measure, the 
attention and time its cultivation requires, but it is also liable 
to various inroads from molluscous and insect enemies, which 
in some seasons diminish the crop. Snails and slugs do much 
mischief at certain periods, and in some 
places the Asparagus beetle (Crioceris As- 
paragi) gives the gardener some trouble. 
The beetle is found during the summer 
months, being busy depositing eggs upon 
the stalks, end one entomologist insinuates 
that Asparagus-eaters who patronise this 
vegetable towards the end of the season, 
help to reduce the numbers of this insect, 
because they devour the eggs with the 
heads on which they are deposited. By 
preference, it is said, the larve feed on the 
young plants, adhering thereto very firmly 
by a sort of sucker at the extremity of the 
body. These areof a dull brown hue and 
shining, having the head small. I cannot 
boast of any personal acquaintance with 
this species, but suspect that the state- 
ment made by some writers, that the larval. 
state only lasts ten days, can hardly be 
correct. It appears, however, to be the 
fact, that both larve and perfect insects 

Crioceris Asparagi. may be found upon the plants at the same 

time. The pupa condition takes place in 
the ground. By a careful examination of the surface of the 
earth at early morning, as soon as any of the beetles have been 
seen, some of them may be secured ere they mount the Aspare- 
gus to deposit their eggs. 

An exceedingly troublesome insect in some gardens is that 
called the St. Mark’s Fly (Bibio Marci), though I am hardly sure 
that a reason can be found why it should be placed under the 
patronage of any saint in the calendar. The special object of 
its attack is very frequently the Strawberry, and in some beds, 
as the larvee have gregarious tastes, a hundred or more will be 
found together. But as they prefer undisturbed spots, a hor- 
ticulturist points out that wherever the one or two-year planting 
system is pursued, these are less likely to be troublesome than 
when the beds are left for several seasons. This larva (or 
grub as it will probably continue to be popularly called), is of 
a dark brown colour, cylindrical and flattened beneath, with a 
small and shining head. The mouth is furnished with strong 


June 8, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


405 


Jaws. It feeds through the winter, becoming a pupa in March, 
the flies appearing in Mey or June to deposit their eggs, which 
usually do not hatch until August. These, singular to say, are 
frequently deposited in dung, and by means of this introduced 
unwittingly into gardens, where the larve perforate the earth 
diligently as they increase in size, feeding greedily on the roots. 
They also infest the flower garden, doing at times consider- 
able damage to beds of Ranunculus. The males and females 
of the St. Mark’s Fly differ considerably from each other in 
appearance, the females having larger wings and very stout 
legs.—J. R. 8. C. 


VALUE OF HONEY BEES IN FRUIT CULTURE. 


Honey and wax have ever been two most useful articles in domestic 
economy, and from the earliest times the honey bee has been the com- 
panion of man. What an addition to a farmer’s house is a bee hive 
nestling among the Apple trees with its hundreds of busy inhabitants, 
some settling about the door, or flying lightly above the roof, others 
darting off in quest of new supplies of food, and still others returning 
on labouring wings laden down with their ‘‘ baskets” filled with crude 
pollen. What a scene of industry and system is bee life! This is an 
every-day picture. But honey and wax are not indispensable. The 
hunting of the sperm whale and the discovery of petroleum have done 
away with the need of wax, and the Sugar Cane and Beets give sweets 
in new and convenient forms. What use, then, is the bee? your 
readers will ask. The answer will occur to but a few. The grand use 
in nature of the bee is the securing to the farmer or fruit-raiser a good 
crop and the permanence of the best varieties of fruit. 

Gardeners have always known that bees fertilise Squash, Melon, and 
Cucumber flowers by conveying the pollen from one plant to another, 
thus insuring not only the complete fertilisation of the seed by the 
male pollen and thus improving the fruit, but actually causing the 
production of more Squashes, Melons, and Cucumbers by causing 
certain flowers to set that would otherwise have dropped to the ground 
sterile and useless. This has been proved by fertilising the flowers by 
hand ; a very large, indeed an unnaturally abundant crop, being thus 
obtained. It has been noticed by a few, though the many have not 
appreciated the fact, that fruit trees are more productive when a swarm 
of bees is placed among them, for when the bees have been removed 
by disease or other means the fruit crop has diminished. 

On this subject I wrote as follows to a correspondent in the “ Ameri- 
can Naturalist,” a monthly illustrated magazine of natural history, pub- 
lished by the Peabody Academy of Science, at Salem, Massachusetts. 

“Tn answer to the question of J. J. Gould (Wenham, Mass.), whether 
bees are in any way injurious to fruit or lessen the quantity or quality, 
I would reply that all the evidence giyen by botanists and zoologists, 
who have specially studied the subject, shows that bees improve 
the quality and tend to increase the quantity of the fruit. They aid 
in the fertilisation of the flowers, thus preventing the occurrence of 
sterile flowers, and by more thoroughly fertilising flowers already 
perfect, render the production of sound and well-developed fruit more 
sure. 

“Many botanists think if it were not for bees and other insects 
(such as certain two-winged flies, moths, wasps, &c.), many plants 
would not fruit at all. The whole subject of the great office of bees 
and other insects perform in the fertilisation of plants has been fully 
discussed in the May, July, and October (1867) numbers of the 
‘American Naturalist,’ and by Professor Asa Gray in the ‘American 
Agriculturist,’ beginning in May, 1866. ‘It is alleged that bees do 
injury in some way by extracting honey from flowers. What is the use 
in nature of honey?’ The best observers will tell you that it is secreted 
by the plant for the very purpose of attracting bees to the flower, other- 
wise it is of no use to the flower or fruit.” 

This was written before Samuel Wagner printed an article on the 
same subject in his well-known and useful ‘‘ American Bee Journal.” 
His testimony so well confirms my statements made above, and is so 
important to fruit-raisers, that I reproduce it in part :— 

“In 1774 Count Anthony, of Torrings, Seefield, in Bavaria, Presi- 
dent of the Academy of Science at Munich, striving to re-introduce 
bee culture on his patrimonial estate, found in this generally prevalent 
prejudice (7.c., that the bees injure the fruit by their visits to the 
flowers) the chief obstacle to success. To overcome this, he laboured 
assiduously to show that bees, far from being injurious, were directly 
beneficial in the fructification of blossoms—causing the fruit to set, 
by conveying the fertilising pollen from tree to tree and from flower to 
flower. He proved, moreover, by official family records, that a century 
earlier, when bees were kept by every tenant on the estate, fruit was 
abundant; whereas then, when only some kept bees, and none of those 
had more than three colonies, fruit was scarcer than ever among the 
tenantry.” 

At the Apiarian General Conyention, held at Stuttgard, in Wurtem- 
berg, in September, 1858, the subject of honey-yielding crops being 
under discussion, the celebrated pomologist Professor Lucas, one of 
the directors of the Hohenhein Tastee: alluding to the prejudice, 
went on to say :— 

“ Of more importance, however, is the improved management of our 
fruit trees. Here the interests of the horticulturist and the bee-keeper 
combine and run parallel. A judicious pruning of our fruit trees will 


cause them to blossom more freely, and yield honey more plentifully. 
I would urge attention to this on those particularly who are both fruit- 
growers and bee-keepers. A careful and observant bee-keeper at Pots- 
dam writes to me that his trees yield decidedly larger crops since he 
has established an apiary in his orchard, and the annual crop is now 
more certain and regular than before, though his trees have always 
received due attention. 

“Some years ago, a wealthy lady in Germany established a greenhouse 
at considerable cost, and stocked it with a great many kinds of choice 
native and exotic fruit trees, expecting in due time to have renumerat- 
ing crops. Time passed, and annually there was a superabundance of 
blossoms, with only very little fruit. Various plans were devised and 
adopted to bring the trees to bearing, but without success, till it was 
suggested that the blossoms needed fertilisation, and that by means of 
bees the needed work could be effected. A hive of busy honey-gatherers 
was introduced next season; the remedy was effectual, there was no 
longer any difficulty in producing crops there. The bees distributed 
the pollen, and the setting of the fruit followed naturally.” 

From these convincing facts we learn the value of the honey bee to 
agriculture. Blot them out and we must go almost entirely without 
fruit and vegetables. Besides being a source of profit for their wax, 
the bees actually bring to our doors loads of fruit and vegetables 
and othér productions of the farm.—A. S. Pacnarp (of American 
Naturalist). 


FLORIDA. 


In the way of gardening (St. Augustine, Florida, March 11th), 
there is not much of interest. The Orange trees suffered more 
from the cold of last December here than on the St. John’s 
River; this is owing to the effects of the wind from the sea, 
which frequently amounts to a gale. It requires the protection 
of walls, screens of evergreens, &¢., to ensure success, even 10 
favourable seasons. From what I can learn, the climate in less 
favourable for the Orange than formerly. Before the great frost 
of 1835, which killed nearly all the Orange trees in Florida, 
there was one tree here, as we learn from good authority, which 
bore as many as twenty thousand Oranges in one crop. This, 
at the moderate price of 20 dols. per thousand, would amount 
to 400 dols. The Fig is quite at home here. Some very old 
trees, perhaps one hundred years old, are to be seen in the 
gardens. In one place we found five trees of the Black English 
Mulberry of immense size, fully 5 feet in diameter of trunk, and 
75 to 80 feet in height. I have never seen any to equal them, 
even in Europe. 

All species of the Mulberry seem to thrive remarkably well. 
We see many large trees of the famous Multicaulis. We are 
told that at one time many persons all over the State embarked 
in silk-growing, but failed—we suppose because it involved 
some labour, which people here are averse to. 

There is not a garden in ten around the city that has the 
slightest appearance of vegetationinit. They appear es though 
they were abandoned, and yet they might be teeming with 
luxuries as ours are in July. 

The Rose blooms here superbly, especially the Tea, Bourbon, 
and Noisette varieties. The garden of Dr. Oliver Bronson, 
which contains a large and fine collection, is just now a splen- 
did exhibition. A Tea Rose with a stem 4! inches in diameter 
and 10 feet high, bearing fully a thousand flowers at one time, 
is one of the garden curiosities. The beautiful Spirea Reevesi, 
double, is in bloom, and appears even fairer, I think, than I 
have seen itin the north. The Wistaria is also in bloom, and: 
attains great perfection here. I should think it would bloom 
nearly the wholeseason. The Oleander attains the dimensions 
of a tree, and although it suffered much from the December 
frost (14° or 15° of frost), it is putting out new leaves, and will 
recover. fi 

The Date Palm is considerably planted and is a noble tree. 
Some specimens are fully 30 feet high. The Sago Palm stands 
well; there is an old plant in a garden here with a trunk fully 
5 feet high and a foot or more in diameter. The Magnolia 
grandiflora flourishes, and there are some fine specimens around. 
The Lagerstrcemia, or Crape Myrtle, is much planted, and we 
see some very old specimens. The common street tree here, 
as elsewhere in the south, is the ‘ Pride of China,” (Melia 
Azedarach). The Oak, however, is fast taking its place. 

It is a curious fact that the Peach trees were in blossom & 
month or more ago, and are yet. We were shown a plantation 
composed of trees from the north, which do not blossom till 
May. There they stand as if dead all through the winter, with 
a temperature equal to our summer. Is it not strange? When 
we first heard this we could not believe it. 

None of our northern fruits succeed well. Grapes are said to 
do very well in soils of sufficient depth and dryness. In the 
gardens we find only the foreign varieties. I have seen only 


406 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


one Apple tree in the place, and it has never borne, and I have | 
not seen a Strawberry plant or any of our small fruits. 

For garden vegetables the winter climate is fine. Peas are 
producing abundantly now. Lettuce is fine; Celery equal to 
ours in September. Market gardening has made no progress, 
as there has been no demand at home, and no facilities for 
shipping. The hotel tables are poorly supplied. Every hotel 
in a place like this should have its garden. Fresh vegetables 
are very important in a climate like this.—P. Banry.—(American 
Journal.) 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Tur young Asparagus beds will be beuefited by a dressing or 
two of salt applied in wet weather during the period of active 
growth. Sca-kale beds may have the same treatment. Salt 
on old worn-out soils acts most beneficially as a manure, in 
addition to its completely destroying slugs, worms, and other 
vermin, and it assists the growth of Celery and all cultivated 
marine plants considerably. Continue to plant out fresh crops 
of Cauliflowers, Cabbages, Celery, and Savoys in proportion to 
what the future demand is likely to be. Plant out Cardoons 
raised in pots in trenches similar to those recommended for 
Celery. Keep sowing at intervals of a fortnight such plants as 
Lettuces, Radishes, Spinach, &c., lasting but short time in 
perfection. Select a cool and rather moist situation for them 
through the summer months. Hoe between and earth-up 
Potatoes, which at present look healthy. Peas, especially the 
tall-growing kinds, should be stopped when they show bloom; 
this will not only throw them into bearing earlier, but make 
them more productive. Treat Scarlet Runners the same for 
similar reasons. Make up the deficiencies in the herb com- 
partment by transplanting Thyme, Sage, Savory, &¢., from the 
goed beds. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

Tie to the wall the shoots of Peaches, Apricots, &c., ax they 
advance. Keep down the attacks of aphides by remedies pre- 
viously pointed out. A constant watch must be maintained 
for some time, otherwise these pests suddenly reappear after 
they are considered to be eradicated. Frequently look over 
Apricots, Pears, and Plums to destroy a maggot, which, curling 
itself in the leaves, does them and the young fruit much injury. 
Gooseberries and Currants attacked by the caterpillar should 
be daily hand-picked, or the branches exposed to the full force 
of the garden engine; this will dislodge the insects, which 
should be destroyed with the back of a spade. The earth im- 
mediately under the trees should be watered and beaten firm. 
This will prevent more of the larve from rising to attack the 
shoots. Where the earth is very light a coating of clay or loam 
of the consistence of mortar should be spread under the trees, 
and made firm to prevent the escape of the caterpillars from 
the earth. If these precautions are taken on the first appear- 
ance of the insects they are more easily kept from doing 
mischief. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

During the continuance of the present dry weather frequent 
waterings must be given, not only to the recently planted trees 
and shrubs, but likewise to the bedding plants, annuals, &. 
In watering it will be better to give the soil a good soaking 
two or three times weekly in preference to a mere sprinkling 
of the surface daily, which has a tendency to make the surface 
hard. Mulching where practicable should be adopted, as well 
as damping the foliage of newly planted subjects every evening. 
Peg down as they advance those plants required to cover the 
ground, and loosen the surface of the beds and borders, which 
should afterwards be neatly raked over. Carnations, Picotees, 
and herbaceous plants, with the taller-growing bedding plants, 
should be staked and tied up to prevent injury from high winds, 
The strength and height of the stakes must be proportionate to 
the size and height of the plants to be secured. Hollyhocks, 
Phloxes, Delphiniums, Asters, &c., if not already attended to, 
should have the shoots thinned out before being tied up, to 
prevent an appearance of overcrowding, as well as to improve 
the size of the flowers. When showery weather occurs let the 
‘Box edgings be clipped. London Pride, Thrift, Daisies, &c., 
used for edgings should each year, or once in two years, be 
taken up, divided, and replanted when the blooming time is 
over. Roses now require watching to prevent the ravages of 
the Rose maggot; a daily look-over is the only prevention. 
Wash with the engine to dislodge the green fly, or syringe 
gently with water to which a small portion of naptha or ammo- 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ June 8, 1871. 


niacal salts has been added; water freely, and mulch the sur- 
face over the roots. Ranunculuses will now claim the florist’s 
attention, and great care must be taken to properly shade them 
from heavy rains as well as the direct rays of the sun, the 
former dashing the surface soil of the beds over the blooms, 
and the latter seriously affecting the colour, especially of the 
dark sorts. There is nothing like cake moss (if it may be so 


termed) for putting between the rows; it prevents the rain © 


from splashing the flowers, and it likewise prevents excessive 
evaporation, and therefore does away with constant watering, 
which in hot weather is prejudicial to these plants. True, 
they like a cool subsoil, and that also should be comparatively 
solid. We do not admire stirring the soil with a smooth hoe, 
which injures the plants by breaking the small fibres which lie 
close to the surface. It may be said that moss will harbour 
insects. An occasional watering with lime water, just sufficient 
to wet the moss through, will not only drive these pests away 
but prove beneficial to the plants. Seedlings may be inured 
to the sun by letting them have a little very early in the morn- 
ing. Carefully weed, and as the flowers expand attend to 
fertilisation. 
GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

In placing greenhouse plants out of doors a somewhat shady 
situation, if circumstances permit, should be selected for the 
purpose, that they may in some measure be protected from 
the midday sun; at the same time it is no less necessary that 
the roots should have a similar protection, for nothing can be 
more injurious to the greater number of plants than exposing 
the pots in which they grow to the force ofa broiling sun, for 
the least inattention to watering is Jikely to prove fatal to the 
plents, more particularly to hardwooded kinds. It matters not 
whether the plants are in or out of the house; this evil should 
be prevented. Out of doors they may be plunged in ashes, or 
have the space between the pots filled with moss, sawdust, &c. ; 
this will prevent the excessive evaporation through the sides 
of the pots from the soil containing the roots, and will save 
many plants from being lost during very hot weather. Shading 
will be necessary now for all descriptions of plant houses, unless 
the roofs are covered with climbers, and air admitted largely, 
allowing more or less at night according to the description of 
plants grown ; and the paths, floors, &c., should be kept damp 
by throwing water repeatedly over them to preserve something 
like humidity in the atmosphere. : : 


STOVE. 

Stove plants should be closely watched, particularly those 
with large soft leaves, to guard against the red spider, which 
the present dry weather is encouraging. Syringe frequently to 
keep them in check, and plants much infested with them should 
be dusted over with dry sulphur by the sulphurator. Let the 
sulphur remain on the plunts for a day or two, carefully shading 
them from the sun, and if possible keeping them in a close 
place; this will generally be found sufficient to kill the red 
spider, when the plants may be washed with the syringe and 
placed in their usual situation. Care should likewise be taken 
with this class of plants in supplying them regularly with water, 
a deficient supply of which, causing the leaves to become flabby 


.in dry weather, is sure to be taken advantage of by the red 


spider. Specimen and choice plants nearly done blooming 
should have the faded blooms picked off, and be well washed 
with the syringe; they should then be placed in a cool, shady 
situation to recover themselves before potting, which, as before 
advised, should on no account take place until a fresh growth 
has commenced. Achimenes, Gesneras, Gloxinias, &c., as they 
begin to show for bloom should be removed to more airy 
quarters, keeping them, however, partially shaded for a time, 
when afterwards they may be exposed to a larger share of light. 
Achimenes must be carefully attended to with water while 
growing.—W. Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


A most singular and trying week; now a burning sun, now 
a storm of wind and rain such as we expect to have in March, 
and anon a sudden chill, reminding one of November with its 
frosty mornings. Several mornings during the week our grass 
plots had their fine-pointed blades loaded withice-drops. Many 
plants in the flower garden looked distressed. We have heard 
of the Coleus planted out before the 14th. If there was as 
much cold as we had here, we should expect them to be very 
browned and stunted, if not irretrievably injured. ‘‘ Wait a 
little” is often wisdom. We are generally about the last in 


June 8, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


407 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


furnishing the flower garden, but we would be later still if we 
had less to do. 
KITCHEN GARDEN. 

In the kitchen garden nothing has suffered except the Dwarf 
Kidney Beans we referred to, and they decayed in the ground 
from want of heat. Potatoes never looked better, and we hope no 
such June frost will injure them as we recoliect once coming on 
the 20th of the month. Peas in all stages look well, and winter 
vegetables are strong, but we wish we could only find ground for 
them. Cabbages will not be much behind after all, the first 
gatherings proving very good, and the spring-raised ones are 
Coming on well, thanks to several applications of house sewage. 

House Sewage.—lt would be well if our cottagers and ama- 
teurs could thoroughly see, that the most effective mode of ad- 
ministering such liquid is to present it to the roots of growing 
plants, especially of all the Cabbage tribe. In ordinary weather 
after June, Cabbages and Cauliflowers will rarely have too 
much. Of course, it should not be over-strong, but for all 
such purposes we generally use ours as it- runs from the 
mansion, scullery, pantry, laundry, &¢. Soapsuds are a valu- 
able fertiliser. Our transplanted early Peas seemed to be at a 
standstill; the pods did not advance after forming, and refused 
to bulge-out as we wanted them todo. A touch-up with the 
fork and a fair watering at the roots, set them swelling at once. 
But for scarcity of pure water, we should never for years 
have found out the value of house sewage. It is best to have 
it clear, and this can easily be attained by having a good-sized 
cesspool across the drain which conveys it to the tank or reser- 
voir. All sediment would lodge there and be cleared-out when 
the cesspool was about half full. 

Vigorous growth after all is the best security against the 
attacks of vermin and insects, either under or above the soil. 
We have seen many a pailful of rich dish-washings, and many 
a tubful of suds slushed out to produce offensive exhalations in 
ahole or ditch, that rightly applied would have soon doubled 
the size of Cabbages, Lettuces, and Cauliflowers. We are 
more convinced every day that the most easily-procured fer- 
tilisers are still among the best, and we often grieve to find that 
they are worse than neglected, just because they can be ob- 
tained at little or no cost. 

Cold as it has been, the previous hot days have made the 
little weeds show in their myriad strength. Taken before they 
reach half an inch in height, a slight scuffle with a Dutch hoe, 
and sun and wind, soon send them out of sight. We often 
wonder what a strange store for seeds every old kitchen garden 
is. Knock up every weed that shows itself, and only turn the 
ground over again a few inches in depth, and ere long a fresh 
green carpet of weeds will show itself. To keep a place, there- 
fore, as respects weeds, with anything like ease, the weeds 
must be cut up when young, and none should be allowed to 
seed. Those who encourage winged seeds to mature them- 
selves, as Thistles, Dandelions, Groundsel, &¢., ought to be 
brought under the ban of legal enactments. We never saw 
more of Thistle down and Dandelions than last summer, and we 


find that on a part of our lawn a good crop of young Dandelions 
is coming up. We find that Watson’s lawn sand soon blackens 
the leaves, shrivels them up, and causes them to disappear. A 
larger dose kills the roots. Fortunately, owing to the dryness 
of the lawn and ground, the bulk of such winged seeds were 
wafted away and caught in trees, hedges, &e., to be parched 
and dried. But it is very different when they light on, and 
have the choice to twist and get into a damp lawn or loose 
ground. We once, owing entirely to such lodgment, had nearly 
half an acre of old lawn covered with young plants of the Sow 
Thistle, where no such intruders had been seen before for 
many years. We recollected of some clouds of downy seeds 
careering past in the previoussummer. It is not uncommon 
to notice fields of corn and Turnips carefully hoed, and yet 
some neighbouring hedgebanks furnished with enough of 
winged seeds to spread over some hundreds of fields. The 
cutting-up of all weeds when young is also of advantage in 
Keeping the surface of the soil open instead of hard and baked. 
The first condition is always desirable when rapid growth is 
wanted. When we want a plant to bloom and seed as soon as 
possible, the reverse conditions may be resorted to. The heavy 
rains at times tended to harden and consolidate the surface soil. 

These rains by softening the ground gave us a good chance 
for thinning all our earlier Parsnip, Carrot, and Onion crops 
—the thinning is so much more easily done, and then a good 
scuffle between the rows leaves all neat. We generally lay the 
Onion thinnings in a shady place, thickly in rows, we might 
almost say bundles, and thus they keep nicely, and are useful 


for many purposes, one of which, if they be allowed to ripen, is 
yielding small Onions, often much in demand. Carrots if very 
small are of no use, but even if less than the little finger, if put 
out thickly in rows in a shady place, with a little fine sandy 
soil about them, they continue very crisp and sweet for a long 
time, and come in useful for dish-dressing and soups. Such 
thinnings give a great relief, and make a small piece of Carrots 
allowed to grow to their full size, go much further. Now, or 
about the middle of the month, is a good time to sow a late 
crop of Carrots. Young Carrots not thicker than one’s thumb 
have a sweetness and richness to which the finest old Carrots 
ean lay no claim. The young ones, too, are rarely spotted 
with the marks of vermin. 

Onions.—Those planted out in spring from a bed sown in 
September seem as if they would be very good this season. 
They are rather better than those left unlifted where sown. 
We have had the latter quite as good as the former when we 
have taken the trouble to go along the rows, say about April, 
and move away the earth from the base of the bulb almost as 
far as to the first layer of roots. We might be in error, 
but we thought we discovered years ago that one principal cause 
of gouty ‘lords and ladies”? among spring-sown Onions was 
sowing the seed too deeply. The chief secret for getting good 
bulbs from transplanted Onions is to fasten the roots firmly 
in the ground, but to have the base of the bulb not below but 
resting on the surface of the ground. When dry weather suc- 
ceeded planting we have sometimes run a little fine earth close 
to the plants on each side, partly to keep them upright and 
partly to prevent moisture escaping so freely; but as soon as 
the Onions held up their heads and were growing freely, it was 
always found to be good policy to remove this covering from 
the bulb. ‘‘Onz wHO HAs A RIGHT TO GruMBLE ” because his 
transplanted Onions threaten to be nothing but long necks, 
may find here a hint to suit him. It may tnrn out to be good 
policy to expose the base of the plant more. 

Earthing-wp Potatoes——This we did to most of ours, not 
because we think it of importance in general, but because we 
believe it helps to keep the roots moist in dry seasons such as 
we have lately had. Our earthed-up Potatoes last season, other 
circumstances being equal, were by far the best as respects 
produce and size of tubers. 

Seed-sowing in dry ground in summer. To make sure of 
the seedlings, be the seeds those of a Pea or a Turnip, we ad- 
vise red-leading them before sowing. Then, to avoid all shad- 
ing and surface-watering, we prefer sowing in drills, water- 
ing the drills before sowing, and then covering all over with 
the dry soil; for very small seeds, using a little riddled soil. 
The same plan may be followed in bed-sowing, only the bed 
must be watered all over, and after the seed is sown dry soil 
should be sprinkled over it; this takes more trouble and 
labour. The moisture at the seeds causes them to swell and 
germinate, and the seedlings come up healthy and strong 
through the dry covering. The dry surface keeps the moisture 
in, and so far keeps heat in too, as there is none of the cold 
which is apt to be produced by evaporation from a moist sur- 
face. When such a mode is adopted little or no watering is 
needed afterwards, and the dry surfacing is a better shade than 
mats or netting. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

We have said quite enough about Strawberries of late. Some. 
web caterpillars have appeared on Pear trees, and these were 
removed at once to prevent their spreading. Some dwarf 
Cherry trees have had their leaves well holed from the last hail. 
Our Gooseberries are plentiful where we gave but little or no 
pruning. Unless we could have protected the buds from birds 
it would have been of little use to prune them. The honeydew 
has appeared to a large extent on some Currant trees against 
walls, but has not shown yet on bush trees in the open garden. 
A good many little shoots on a few Apple trees where there is 
plenty of fruit have been blighted and withered up as if a fire- 
blast had passed over them. A few Pear twigs are similarly 
affected. In general the crops will be fair. 

Could we have found time we would have pinched ont the 
points of spur young shoots before now. This greatly tends to 
cause fruit buds to cluster at their base. In all bush and 
pyramidal trees the great point is to have myriads of fruit buds. 
It is an easier matter to thin out hundreds of fruit than to fix 
one on where none is to be found. Suitable strength is most 
easily supplied by surface-dressing. We have come to the con- 
clusion that with shallow surface-planting, summer-nipping 
and regulating young shoots, and surface-mulching, we may 
almost dispense with root-pruning—a very nice process with 


408 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 8, 1871. 


the experienced, but often perplexing and disappointing to our 
most enthusiastic amateurs. We went over our orchard-house 
trees quite late enough. When Peaches and Nectarines set 
like ropes of Onions, and swell quite enough before we thin, we 
ean hardly help wishing that only from a fifth to a tenth of 
them had set and swelled, and even then it is a great chance 
if we do not leave too many. Nothing injures trees more than 
heavy cropping, and such trees generally take their revenge by 
withholding the usual return in the following year. Here is 
2 case in point. Last year we had two beautiful dwarf trees of 
the Red Quarrenden Apple, very useful in its way for a short 
time. Had we been wise, instead of allowing both to overload 
themselves with fruit, we ought at least to have thinned one 
freely, and then that would have had a chance this season, 
Tor of little room we must make the most, and this Apple, prettier 
than good, helps to fill a gap. We shall have very few fruit 
from both trees this season. They will need this summer to 
make a number of fresh fruit buds. We think we once gave of 
one of these trees—a large espalier—an account which we may 
repeat as interesting to some. When a large tree we raised it 
and replanted it where its presence would be desirable. With 
all our care, the labour seemed so far to have gone for nothing, 
that during the whole of the season after planting it never 
‘made a single leaf, though the bark remained fresh and green. 
The singular thing is, that though in the first season after 
planting it did not yield a single leaf, in the second season it 
gave us a good quantity of Apples, as well as a rather free 
moderate growth of shoots and leaves. We quite expected the 
growth, but we did not expect the fruit. Every year since we 
have had a good supply, and we have no doubt we should at 
Teast have had the usual amount of blossom, at least this season, 
if we had taken a more moderate crop last summer. 

Peach House.—Probably owing to keeping such a lot of Straw- 
berry plants in pots in the house we haye noticed a few Peach 
leaves affected with red spider, and have therefore fresh 
daubed the hot-water pipes with sulphur. As the fruit is 
ripening, the pipes will not be hot enough to do any injury. 
As lately stated, when Vines are young and sulphur is applied 
‘to flues or pipes, great care should be taken that the heating 
medium is not too hot. It is better to have it under 170° than 
over it. Of all things that we know Black Hamburgh Grapes 
when not much larger than Radish seeds, and the young fronds 
of Maiden-hair Ferns, are the most easily injured by sulphur 
iumes. One great drawback to keeping Strawberry plants in 
pots late in forcing houses is, that in dry parching sunny 
weather the Strawberry plants are more likely to be affected 
than they are at an earlier period in the spring, when the sun 
ds less powerful and the houses are less heated. 

We commenced thinning Grapes at the top of the late vinery, 
thinning them much more than earlier ones, as they must hang 
much longer,’ and we want to reduce to the lowest point the 
chances of damping. It is very seldom that these late Vines, 
or in fact any Vines, are wetted or syringed—our water is not 
clear and good enough to permit of that being done after the 
Grapes are set and beginning to swell. The watering of plants, 
and damping the stages and floors, generally furnish enough of 
atmospheric moisture. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Filling flower beds has been our chief work, and will be so 
for at least a week. Some of our first-turned-out plants seem 
a little shabby from losing their larger leaves, but if the nodes 
and joints are all right they will soon throw out fresh shoots 
and leaves. Many would think by the look of them that a 
‘dittle water would help them, but in this very cold weather the 
water would tend still more to chill the roots.—R. F. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

*.* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘‘ Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, éc., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 

We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same 
sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry 
and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them answered 
promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate 
communications. Also neyer to send more than two or 
three questions at once. 

Booxs (R. Wilson).—We know nothing about the journal you name, 


GARDENERS’ Examinations (IM. Vivian).—Write to J. Richards, Esq., 
Assistant Secretary, Royal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, and 
ask for the information. 

Tuusas (J. T.).—T. gigantea and Lobbii of the nurseries are identical. 


_ WRITING ON ZINC Lapezs (F. R.).—We have published a recipe several 
times, but are told that a saturated solution of sulphate of copper answers 


| very well; and that a few drops of sulphuric acid make it bite in rather 


better. 


Paut’s DousLE Scarter Torn (An Old Subscriber).—The enclosed 
specimen seems to be of the old double pink variety. None of them are 
scarlet, but various shades of crimson. 


WHo Is AN ARTISAN (Inquirer).—For prizes at a horticultural show to 
be competed for by “artisans,” no one ought to exhibit except those 
manually employed as servants in the manufacture of some article, such 
as carpenters, smiths, tailors, weavers, &c. 


ANTHURIUM ScHERzERTANUM (G. B.).—It belongs to the natural order 
Orantiacez, and Tetrandria Monogynia of Linnzus. It is named after 
M. Scherzer, who discovered it in Guatemala. The flowers, though so 
peculiar in form, are perfect. You may see a portrait of the flower and 
its parts in the “ Botanical Magazine,” ¢. 5319. 


_SUMMER-PRUNING CHERRIES AND Piums (Q. Q.).—It is necessary to 
pinch off the points of all shoots of the Cherry and Plum, except those 
required for extension, which in the case of wall trees should be trained 
in at their fulllength. The pinching needed for inducing fruitfulness 
next year in Pear trees is applicable to the Cherry aud Plum. 

GERANIUMS IN A FRAME (Idem).—The Geraniums you have may be 
grown into nice plants by autumn. They would succeed admirably in a 
cold frame, placing ashes as a base for the pots and for keeping out 
worms. You do not say what size of pots they are in, nor whether these 
are filled with roots. but we presume they are in 3-inch pots. Shift them 
into 6-inch pots and place them in the cold frame, keeping them rather 
close and slightly shaded for a few days, but give a little air early in the 
morning, so as to have the foliage dry before the sun falls powerfully on 
it. After the plants are rooting freely admit air in abundance; in fact, 
gradually harden them off and remove the lights, using these only in 
cases of very heavy rains, and then tilt the lights back and front so as to 
admit airfreely. Take out the points of the shoots about ten days after 
the potting, and again in the second or third week of July, giving them 
fhet, blooming pots (8-inch) early in August. They will flower finely in 
autumn. 


CoNNOVER’S CotLossus ASPARAGUS (Idem).—We have no experience of 
this, but hear of its having no extraordinary amount of vigour as com- 
pared with the ordinary kind. The transplanting will cause plants so 
treated to be less vigorous than those allowed to remain where sown. 
We have colossal Asparagus by affording a deep, rich, well-drained, sandy 
soil, and giving soakings of sewage in trenches between the rows two or 
three times a-week from the beginning of June to the middle of Septem- 
ber. We have not found from experience two kinds of Asparagus. 


Liny OF THE VALLEY SEED GERMINATION (P. R.).—The seed, like the 
plants, does not grow speedily if placed in a brisk heat, but it usually 
germinates in the spring if sown in the open ground as soon as ripe; but 
if not sown till spring in some instances it does not germinate until the 
spring following. We would plunge the pot in a shady border, and keep 
the soil moist. The most suitable soil is a light rich loam, moist but well 
drained. A border shaded from the direct midday sun is most suitable. 


Nemesia SEED GERMINATING (Idem).— They are not difficult of ger- 
mination, but being small, should not be covered deeply with soil. If 
they are just covered it is sufficient. Ina gentle heat they appear in a 
few days. Venidium was applied by De Candolle, but has not been ex- 
plained. Lindley says, ‘‘ meaning unknown.” 


Str Harry STRAWBERRIES UNFRUITFUL (Z.).—Having borne abun- 
dantly last year, we should attribute their unfruitfulness this year to that 
circumstance, combined with the unusual drought of last season. We 
would not destroy them unless more than three years old, and if we made 
a fresh plantation we would not take runners from them, but from fruit- 
ful plants. The first runners are the best, and the earlier they are planted 
the better. We have a splendid show of blossom with grand foliage, 
attributable, we think, to the mulchings last season and the drenchings 
of water with the hose pipe. Plenty of room, manure, and water are requi- 
site to grow Strawberries. 


VinEs BREAKING IRREGULARLY (Idem).—The planting of Vines in 
September would not affect their breaking in the ensuing spring, but 
rather tend to a good breaking of the eyes. It is due to cold and a dry 
atmosphere. Moisture with warmth is necessary for a regular breaking 
of the eyes. 


GRapEs DIsEASED (M. J. C.).—They are suffering from the disease 
called by gardeners “the spot.” It is an ulceration caused probably by 
a deficient supply of sap. Remove the soil down to the first roots, replace 
it with a compost of two-thirds light soil and one-third decomposed stable 
manure, and waier once a-week with weak, tepid, liquid manure. Haye 
the surface mulched. 


VinEs out oF Doors (R M. W.).—The shoot is very vigorous, and your 
statement of the number of bunches very remarkable. Let us know if 
any of them on the varieties you name ripen out of doors. 


VINES IN GREENHOUSE WITH East Asprct (W. B.).—Your greenhouse 
having no sun after noon, owing to a high wall to the west, will grow 
Vines, nevertheless, very well, but they will need a little fire heat at 
starting and when ripening, but you may do much by closing or reducing 
the air shortly after the sun leaves the house. Black Hamburghs would 
do well, and Foster’s White Seedling. We prefer the border partly within 
and partly outside the house, but do not care for more than a 3-feet border 
inside, so that the Vines may be planted inside. Four feet apart we con- 
sider the most suitable distance to plant Vines in a greenhouse. 


MILDEW ON ViNES (S. D.).—There is no known means of preventing 
mildew, except by dusting with flowersof sulphur. In yvineries, however, 
it has been found that painting the hot-water pipes with a composition 
formed of flowers of sulphur and a solution of 8 028. of soft soap to the 
gallon of water, wards off mildew. 

DerstRovinG Snars (Idem).—In gardens, the best plan is at dusk and 
early in the morning to dress the ground and crops with quicklime, par- 
ticularly after rain. A few dressings will soon clear the garden. Black- 


June 8, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


409 


birds, thrushes, and other song birds destroy immense numbers. Amongst 
pot plants no plan is so good as to search for them after dark witha 
Jantern. Fresh Cabbage leaves put down at night and examined in the 
morning afford a means of taking a great many. 


CucumBers DampinG-orr (D. W.).—The watering daily is sufficient to 
account for the fruit not swelling. As soon as the flowers close they 
become wet, and the fruit do not swell-off, as you say, and we are sur- 
prised it does not decay. In dung beds Cucumbers in the brightest 
weather do not require water oftener than every alternate day, and in 
ordinary weather partly dull and partly clear, twice a-week, whilst in 
dull weather once a-week is quite sufficient. The soil should be moist, 
but it is well to allow it to become dry before giving water, and before 
the leaves flag afford a good supply. Water less frequently, admit air 
early in the day, and shut up early in the afternoon, and we think your 
fruit will swell freely. On dung beds we give no manure, but employ 
turfy loam alone. 


ERapicatine WiLD ConvoLyutus (H. B., Belfast)—We know of no 
better plan than to dig them up with a fork by the roots, taking out every 
portion of the root-stem. This is very tedious, but the only effectual 
method we have tried. Pulling up the shoots as soon as they appear, 
and keeping them under throughout the summer, weakens the plant con- 
siderably, and prevents any very extensive root-formation ; but there is, 
as already stated, no effectual means of destroying it but forking out 
eyery portion of root. 


STRAWBERRY FoR Forcine (Amateur).—Of Sir Harry, Dr. Hogg, Pre- 
sident, and Rivers’s Eliza, we should prefer Sir Harry for one, and if two, 
President. We should add Sir Joseph Paxton. The growing end of the 
Vine in the ground vinery you may stop when as long as you wish, and 
at the winter pruning cut it back to an eye about 15 inches from the end, 
and the shoot from it may in future be treated the same as the side 
‘shoots—that is, it may be cut back to one or two eyes at the winter 
pruning. All growths subsequent to the first stopping, keep to one joint 
throughout the season. 


Coats or Funer (Fungus).—The fungi sent are the external leathery 
coats of Scleroderma yulgare, a tough fungus allied to the Puff-balls, 
which grows on the surface of the soil. These external coats, owing to 
their coriaceous nature, often remain on the ground all through the 
winter till the following spring. The assumption as to their being the 
cases of decayed Trufiles, &c., is altogether erroneous. 


VARIEGATED PERIWINKLE (J. E. M.).—The golden-veined leaves you 
enclosed are yery handsome, and if the plants propagated from their 
parent retain their variegation it would be an acquisition to the flower 
garden.. There is one much like it known as elegantissima. 


NEWLY-PLANTED FRUIT TREES NoT THRIVING (A Gardener in Trouble): 
—We do not see anything in your planting likely to cause the trees to go 
back, as yours have done. We think, judging from the roots, which are 
dead, the wood quite dry, and the leaves black, that they will not recover, 
We would, however, leave them, and cease watering at the root, sprinkling 
overhead with water in the evenings of hot days. We planted a great 
amany fruit trees this spring, some as late as the middle of March, and 
out of several hundreds not one has failed. They are now in full 
leaf. We fear your trees have had the roots frosted, or the roots may 
have been destroyed by the journey; or, as you had them from a conti- 
nental source, they might have been damaged by sea water. If they do 
not recover by August they never will do any good, and you will have no 
alternative but to replant in autumn. 


CALCEOLARIAS AND ZINNIAS ATTACKED BY WEEVILS (Zinnia).—The 
Calceolaria sent us is a mere skeleton. We think the damage has been 
done by some weevil. We advise you to add 1oz. of white hellebore 
‘powder, which may be obtained of any druggist, to a gallon of water, 
with which sprinkle the plants overhead after dark. Being poison, care 
is necessary, and the liquid should not be exposed to the air until used. 
Elder leayes may be'placed in an iron vessel or boiler with enough water 
to just cover them, boiled until quite black, and a gallon of tobacco juice 
added to every gallon of the elder decoction, and one gallon of water to 
every gallon of tobacco juice. This, strained and applied after dark on 
a dry, calm evening with a fine-rosed watering-pot, will destroy or drive 
away every kind of caterpillar, beetle, or weevil. We also find it an 
effectual remedy for all kinds of aphis. 


PYRUS JAPONICA FOR A NoRTH WALL (A Five-years Subseriber).—We 
have no experience of this on a north aspect, and unless you reside very 
far south it would, probably, not succeed. We have seen it, however, 
fovering a 24-feet wall with an east aspect, and flowering and fruiting 
profusely. The flowers are scarlet, and about an inch in diameter. 
Plants from seeds may flower in three or four years from sowing, and 
may then be 3or 4 feet high. The seeds should be sown in rich light 
soil in a pot or pan in February, covering them about half an inch. 
Place the pots in a cold frame, keeping the soil moist, and in about six 
weeks the plants will be up; then admit air freely, and remove them 
aiter May to the open ground, keeping them well watered in dry weather. 
In autumn plant them out about 6 inches apart in good light soil and a 
warm situation, and twelve months afterwards they may be finally 
planted against the wall, but we do not say they will succeed against a 
wall with a north aspect. All the Quinces like warm situations and 
porous soils free of stagnant water. ~ 

Sroppinc CHRYSANTHEMUMS (E. S. C.).—Do not stop them later than 
the middle of this month. 

SELECTING STRAWBERRY Runners (R. H.).—It is not unusual, how- 
ever careful we may be in selecting runners from fruitful plants, for 
some of the runners not to show fruit, whilst others are remarkably pro- 
lific. We often experience this, and find such are not sterile in after- 
years, but produce abundantly. We fill-up all our gaps as early in May 
as we can distinguish the fertile from the barren plants, always keeping 
a few plants of each kind in reserve beds; and lifted with balis and well 
watered they experience but little check. We, of course, remove the 
sterile plants and replace them with others that are fruitful. In selecting 
runners, take them from fruited or fruiting plants. Such only are to be 
depended on. 


CHAMROPS FoRTUNEI IN WARDIAN CasE (J. D).—Thigs Palm will 
Succeed well in a Wardian case not kept very close, and in a room from 
which frost is excluded. The treatment required throughout the year is 
simply to keep the soil moist, and to admit air for a few hours early in 
the day, and to close early in the afternoon. A compost of rather rough 


peat two parts, one part light turfy loam, and one part of cocoa-nut 
refuse, with a fifth part of silver sand will grow it well. When growing, 
more water will be required than ‘vhen it is not, but at all times the soil 
must be kept moist. The leaves may be advantageously washed with a 
Sponge and water. Liquid manure is not necessary. It is a native of 
China, and was introduced by Mr. Fortune in 1844. It attains a height 
of about 20 feet. In a room it would succeed well from August to 
March inclusive, but in April, May, June, and July would be better ina 
warm greenhouse so as to make fresh growths, though it would do well 
in a light airy window. As a decorative plant it is very useful; indeed, 
Palms generally are the most enduring of all plants for room decoration. 


PRUNING Banxstan Roses (F. Y.).—The best time to prune Banksian 
Roses is in the winter, or late in the autumn. They do not require, or 
rather we might say stand, much pruning, which should be confined to 
thinning-out where the shoots are crowded, or removing the weakly 
growths. Strong shoots should be nailed-in to their full length. 


EXuHiIsBitInG TEA-sCENTED Roses (E. M.).—As the Climbing Devo- 
niensis is only a sport from the old Devoniensis, it would be as well not 
to show them as separate sorts in a stand, as many judges would dis- 
qualify them, but much would depend on the individual opinions of the 
judges. Generally speaking, Noisettes may be shown as Tea-scented 
Roses, unless there is a special rule to the contrary in the schedule; for 
instance, we should always class Maréchal Niel and Cloth of Gold among 
the Tea-scented, although generally classed as Noisettes. In most 
schedules when prizes are given for Tea-scented Roses, the wording is 
for Tea-scented or Noisette Roses. Having often had to judge classes for 
Tea-scented Roses, we should never think of disqualifying a stand 
because Noisettes, as Narcisse, Céline Forestier, and Triomphe de Rennes, 
were exhibited amongst the true Teas, although if the wording of the 
schedule were for twelve Tea Roses, not twelye Tea-scented Roses, & 
doubt would arise in that case. 


GARDENERS’ Worxkine Hours (Early Bird).—From six to six are the 
general working hours for gardeners, with half an hour for breakfast, one 
hour for dinner, and half an hour for tea. A good anxious man will not 
adhere to these hours. when work is much behind, and, on the other 
hand, the master should also make an allowance, so that the liberality 
should not all be on the workman’s side. The hours, however, greatly 
vary, in some places there is an hour for breakfast, and none for tea. In 
other places there is no time for tea, but the men leave at 5 and 5.30. 
In winter, during short days, the general rule is, with the exception of 
breakfast and dinner, to work as long as the light will permit. All people 
who are particular should regulate their own time, and keep to it. A 
good workman can easily make up for a few hours’ absence. 


Various (J. L.).—We have never found “ may bees, ‘or cockchafers” 
eating green fly on Roses, but we have too often found the latter eating 
everything nice in the plant way that they could find. We have had fine 
Mushrooms on Vine borders, but it is much better to be without them. 
The spawn of all fungi is apt to rot the roots of growing plants, and thus 
often the roots are troubled with mildew. Cactus blooms will last much 
longer in a cool house than in a warm one. 


HEATING By STOVE WITH CHAMBER (4 Yorkshire Amateur).—Uaing 
the hopper to fill the furnace is a good plan, even without your peculiar 
arrangement of the damper at the base of the fire-box, instead of, as is 
generally the case, in the mouth of the smoke-pipe or chimney. When 
you once become thoroughly acquainted with the mode of using such a 
damper, so as to regulate the draught past it into the fire-box, you will, 
no doubt, manage to keep the fire burning a long time, and so as to yield 
a mild but regular heat; but with all that you will not obtain more heat 
than the fuel can yield, and before you become used to the management 
of the damper we fear that often the fuel will burn very slowly, or go 
out from want of air. Looking at the matter practically, then, we would 
attain the same object by having bars for the fire-box in the usual way, 
but with little space between them, and the sides and ends supplied with 
plates so as to afford room for fuel without air directly acting on it; then 
we would regulate draught by the ash-pit door to a nicety, and as a help 
after the fire was fairly set to work, we would also use the damper in the 
chimney. As a general rule, we see no advantage in a fire-box that would 
hold fuel for two days, quite the reverse. As tothe plants you name— 
Tacsonia, Correa, Eutaxia, and Bouvardia, will thrive admirably in a 
temperature by fire heat of 50° in winter, rising some 10° or 15° by sun 
heat ; 60° to 65° by night, and 7v° to 80° by day, will be too hot for them, 
except in the summer months, when the sun heat would reach that tem- 
perature. Ixora coccinea will need the heat you specify when growing 
and showing bloom, a few degrees less will be better when the plant is 
comparatively at rest. When growing freely and showing bloom it dearly 
likes a little bottom heat. Your seedling Gloxinias are a different affair 
from the plants named, they will rejoice in a high temperature and a 
moist atmosphere. We have grown them well in a temperature of 60°, 
but a great deal better in a heat of from 75° to 80°, and not too strong 
sunshine after the blooms appeared. 


GruB IN RapisHEs (E. Hodgson).—Ili you had enclosed a specimen in 
a quill, we might identify it. 

Ants (W. 7.).—Sprinkle guano, or water with gas ammoniacal liquor 
over their nests andruns. Repeat until they desert the place. Dallas’s 
“Elements of Entomology;? Notcutt’s ‘‘ Handbook of British Plants.” 
The last-named can be had post free from our office if you enclose 
Ss. 8d. with your address. 


Insrcrs (M. P. B.).—The insect sent is the male of the Sirex gigas. It 
lives in Fir trees, the caterpillar making a cylindrical burrow. (K. G. M.). 
—The small beetles which have deyoured your young Cabbage plants are 
the common flea beetle, Haltica nemorum. Powder slaked lime over the 
plants, and water them well to get them forward beyond the seed leaves. 
The green beetles which have gnawed the foliage of your hedges are the 
common weevil, Polydrusus Mali. Beat the bushes into an umbrella and 
kill the beetles, which will fall into it by hundreds.—I. O. W. 


AMES oF Prants (G. S.).—Your Fern is Asplenium fontanum, and 
sae informant must Ge been under mistake. Should you attempt to 
discriminate between A. fontenum and what is known as A. Halleri, this 
belongs to the former. (Wiltshire) —1, Rhinanthus Crista-galli; 2, As- 
perula odorata; 3, Lysimachia Nummularia ; 4, Pedicularis sylvatica ; 
5, Stellaria Holostea; 6, Polygala vulgaris; 7, Lysimachia nemorum. 
(Butler d) McCulloch).—Narcissus Jonquilla. (J. P.).— Prunus Padus ; 
Erysimum odoratum. (@. P. R.J.).—Neither of the plants sent is an 


410 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 8, 1871. 


Alyssum ; the white one is Arabis albida, and the purple one Aubrietia 
purpurea. (J. B).—Erysimum odoratum. (J. C., Bromley).—Your speci- 
men is Syringa Emodi. Native of the Himalayan mountains. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


PRIZES FOR THE BEST COCK AND HEN. 


Ar most of the summer and smaller shows, prizes are offered 
for the ‘‘ best cock and hen” in the different classes, and one 
would expect to find the best male and female bird taken to- 
gether, obtaining these prizes. Instead of this being the case, 
we continually find some of our judges awarding prizes to the 
cock, entirely ignoring the hen. ‘This, to say the least, is 
neither fair nor just to the exhibitor, who carefully selects his 
birds, so as to make them match in quality, size, colour, and 
general style. All breeders of poultry know there is as much 
difficulty in procuring good hens as cocks, and to breed success- 
fully either male or female birds, as much depends upon the 
purity and quality of the hen as the cock. The prizes are dis- 
tinctly cffered for the ‘best cock and hen.” Then why should 
judges, in making their awards, take no notice whatever of the 
hen, merely selecting the cock, and giving him the preference ? 
Possibly the cock in one pen, if taken by himself, may be better 
than that in another, but he often has with him an inferior 
hen, while in the other there may be a good hen, and if the 
two are judged together would make by far the better pair ; and 
as the prizes are intended for them, let our judges give justice 
and satisfaction te those who exhibit the best cock and hen. 

I am led to make these remarks after having visited the Bath 
and West of England Show at Guildford. In several classes 
the hen was never noticed, or the prizes would not have been 
given as they were, and thus the judging in many cases gave 
great dissatisfaction, and naturally so, when some winning pens 
contained hens the very worst in the whole class, and in one or 
two cases were hardly worth the trouble of carrying away.—Cam. 


SEX OF EGGS. 


Onz of your correspondents revives the old question about 
the sex of eggs; I send you my experience. Last winter an 
old country poultry-keeper told me he could distinguish the 
sex in eggs; I laughed at him, and was none the less sceptical 
when he told me the following secret :—‘t Eggs with the air- 
bladder on the centre of the crown of the egg will produce 
cockerels, those with the bladder on one side will produce pul- 
lets.” The old man was so certain of the truth of this dogma, 
and his poultry-yard so far confirmed it, that I determined to 
make experiments upon it this year. I have done so, carefully 
registering every egg ‘‘ bladder vertical” or ‘‘bladder on one 
side,” rejecting every one in which it was not decidedly one or 
the other, as in some it is only very slightly out of the centre. 
The following is the result :—Fifty-eight chickens were hatched, 
three are dead, eleven are yet too young to decide upon their 
sex; ofthe remaining forty-four everyone has turned out exactly 
true to the old man’s theory. This, of course, may be an 
accidental coincidence, but I shall certainly try the experiment 
ae I am now trying the same theory upon Ducks’ eggs. 
—wW.H.P. 


BANTAMS. 


On taking up my copy of Tue JournaL or HorticuLtTunreE to-day, 
June ist, 1 was agreeably surprised by reading the article from the 
pen of ‘“‘Winrsntre Rector” on ‘“ What Poultry should I keep?” 
for my last recollection of him amongst the Bantams took me back to 
January 16th, 1866, and following weeks up to the end of March, 
when he told us that on his visit to the Birmingham Show at Christ- 
mas, 1865, he saw ninety-nine pens of Game Bantams, and that, 
“throwing aside a few coarse birds, a great number seemed one as 
good as another,’ and that ‘‘as to profit with them, of course there is 
none.” He says, ‘‘I have kept all kinds of Bantams; the only sort 
I found profitable were Blacks.” Also that Game Bantams “‘ are easy 
to breed good.” Many readers of “our Journal” will, doubtless, re- 
member that these opinions raised a little friendly discussion at the 
time, and I am glad to observe not without effect, for ‘‘ WirtsHIRE 
Rector ” has at last become a convert to the side opposed to him then, 
and he now says, ‘‘ Bantams are scarcely kept so generally as they 
ought to be, and they could be kept likewise with profit;” ‘‘no breed 
affords greater amusement and interest,’ &c.; ‘‘ Bantams produce 
abundance of eggs, and especially the pullets of the Blacks and Black- 
breasted Reds are excellent winter layers,” We. 

I am sure I can heartily endorse the above remarks, and will add 
that from a pretty long experience I can recommend the Game 


Bantams as being more hardy than either the best Blacks or Sebrights. 
I kept Black Bantams twenty-five years ago, and have had both them 
and the White Bantams since I became an exhibitor, but never found 
them so interesting as the Game, which I have bred carefully and 
studied closely for the last fourteen or fifteen years. 

As the Rector says, it is quite sate, generally, to allow the large 
breeds, such as Cochins, Dorkings, and Brahmas; to run with the 
smaller kinds of Bantams without fear of a cross; but Game Bantams 
are frequently crossed with large Game fowls, and I have this season 
three broods of chickens of the first cross between a Game hen and a 
Bantam cock, and several broods of the second and third cross with 
the Bantam. In the Game Bantams, style and not size is the point 
first in importance, and the smallest Game Bantams are seldom good 
enough to win. Colour is also a great point in Game Bantams, and is 
of more importance than size. 

Bantams are easiest to rear in April, May, and June, but the April 
birds grow larger than either the very early or later broods ; and where 
smallness of size is required, May and June may with advantage be 
selected for setting the eggs. 

Onur esteemed friend, the “‘ WiitsHirE Rector,” shows a preference 
for Black-breasted Reds over any other colour of Game Bantams; 
but each of the four standard colours has its own special reeommenda- 
tion, and I really think that could he see my favourite set of Pile 
Bantams, cock and five hens, with the striking contrast between the 
creamy white body and tail, and red neckand saddle of the male bird, 
and the rich salmon breast and shoulder and white body of the hens, 
with their graceful carriage as they walk on the lawn in front of my 
house or in the fields surrounding it, he would admire them more than 
the Whites. Then the Brown-breasted Reds are great fayourites of 
mine, with their large, expressive dark eyes, purple faces, golden 
hackles, and greenish black bodies in the hens; these are especially 
striking when close at hand. I am glad to see that so many com- 
mittees of shows are adopting our suggestion, and offering prizes for 
Brown Reds this year, and hope the class will be well supported. 
Again, what can be more pretty than the glossy black breast, white 
neck, and golden saddle of the Duckwing Bantam cock, accompanied 
by his hens of a delicate silvery-grey, with light fawn breasts? These 
are great favourites with the ladies, and I should like to see more of 
them exhibited. 

The Black-breasted Reds have long been my especial favourites, 
but after our Rector’s recommendation I am sure I need not say 
another word in their fayour, but with many other constant readers of 
“our Journal” TI shall look forward with much interest to the future 
numbers of the series of papers commenced with the proudest and 
merriest of all poultry—the Bantam.—W. F. Entwiste. 


REARING CHICKENS. 


Ix your impression of May 11th I have read a paper on rearing 
chickens, or rather the experience of a noted breeder of Game, in 
which he states that Game birds cannot be bred to the standard re- 
quired for exhibition except by in-and-in breeding. It is a great 
mistake and a baneful practice to breed birds in this way, of whatever 
variety they may be. I have bred Game for nearly twenty years, 
formerly for the pit, now for exhibition, and find my birds take their 
share of prizes awarded at most shows, and I can honestly say that 
they are bred without any relationship whatever to each other. Itis 
a well-known fact that a Game fowl has a constitution which no other 
fowl possesses, and were breeding in-and-in adopted, the results must 
follov—yviz., weakly constitution and want of courage, the reverse of 
a Game bird. In olden times, for fighting p ses, @ cross with 
mother and son was sometimes adopted, and theresult was often good, 


but care was taken not to breed again from the progeny, or the result 


might have been what has often been witnessed in the pit—viz., a bird 
having the winning card in his hand running away. 

I breed upwards of a hundred chickens yearly, and rarely lose any, 
with the exception of a few young cocks destroying each other by 
fighting, which they sometimes do at six weeks old. My first time of 
feeding is at 7 A.a., and my last at 7 p.at., the food consisting chiefly 
of oat and barleymeal, groats, and whole barley; no house scraps nor 
artificial food is given. Nature should be followed as much as possible, 
and my idea is they should not at this season be fed so late as ten 
o'clock at night. If a chicken is taken up in the hand at that honr 
its crop will be found quite full, if plenty was given three hours pre- 
viously. I give my hens thirteen eggs, and like to see as many 
hatched as possible. ‘The chicks average from eight to twelve to eack 
hen, and they seem to do well, as if it were the more the merrier. 

1B 


TI «or amused at the difficulty one of your correspondents experiences 
in raising chickens. I rarely lose a chicken, except by some accident, 
and few people haye to contend with greater difliculties, as I am 
obliged to keep my pets quite out of sight, and a long way from the 
honse, so that I can rarely see them more than three times a-day. I 
have now fifty strong chickens of ages varying from two months to a 
fortnight old ; not one has died, buta cat killed six before we shot her, 
and another chicken was killed by 2 man who was turning a manure 
heap, burying the poor chicken, who was busy hunting for insects in 
company with its mother and nine brothers and sisters. 


My plan of management is very simple. The coops are large and’ 


June 8, 1871. ] 


well made, of the common pattern, and in front of each is placed 
another coop of exactly the same size, but with one side of sparrow- 
proof wire instead of wood. The eke, as I call it, is made of half- 
inch wood, so that I can easily move it. Hvery morning, about seven 
o'clock, I go to the coops, which are placed under a hedge with the 
wire side of the eke facing the east, and turn each eke half round, thus 
releasing the hen and chickens, which immediately go off into an 
orchard or shrubbery at their pleasure. About eleven o’clock I go in 
search of each brood, and give them a good feed of oatmeal, mixed 
very stiff with water. At half-past three o’clock I go to the coops, 
which have in the course of the day been cleaned out, fresh straw 
put in, and a large slate laid down in the eke. The chickens are 
tired, the hens hungry, and in a few minutes each hen is secured 
in her coop, well fed on rice boiled in milk, oatmeal mixed with water, 
and tail wheat and barley. The very little chickens also have chopped 
egg given them. Clean water is put in each ekein a flower-pot saucer, 
and no one again visits them till I go to let them ont next morning. 
I always leave what I consider enough food for their breakfast as well 
as supper. All the food is fresh made and perfectly sweet. 

I consider eight chickens as many as a hen can manage. The 
seven coops now occupied contain six hens and one brood whose 
mother has left them. It takes me five minutes to let them out, 
and about half an hour to secure them in the coops; the mid-day 
feed occupies me about ten minutes. In cold or wet weather the 
chickens are not turned out till about half-past nine, but only one 
day this year have they been kept in their coops the whole day, yet I 
have never had a sickly chicken. I rear from seventy-five to a hundred 
chickens every year, principally for the use of the table, though I 
occasionally exhibit a pen. I keep thorough-bred White Dorkings, 
and afew Houdans and Brahma hens for hatching half-bred chickens. 
‘Our favourite table chickens are hatched from Houdan hens’ eggs, and 
we find them better eating than the thorough-bred Dorkings. My old 
fowls have a run quite distinct from the young chickens. 

I have ventured to send you these particulars, as I fancy many 
chickens are lost by being too much caréd for. Dry warm coops, a 
good run, small broods, and plenty of sweet wholesome food, are, in 
my opinion, all that is necessary to rear strong chickens.—ONE oF 
YOUR OLDEST SUBSCRIBERS. 


SunpwHare of iron for young chicks I use rarely and sparingly. 
Custard I give at the last meal at night till the chicks are six weeks 
old. It is made thus: Break up two eggs, as for table custard, add 
two tablespoonsful of milk beaten well into the eggs, then stir gently 
in a saucepan on the fire till the whole becomes dry and crumbly. 
The chicks love this food, and will greedily come from under their 
mother for it. If given by day they become careless of oatmeal and 
other food, which is better general eating. —CHAnTICLEER. 


BEDLINGTON POULTRY SHOW. 


Tuts Show took place on May 30th. The pens used were very sub- 
stantial, being of wood, except the front and top; the former a move- 
able framework covered with wire. The number of entries was much 
larger than at any previous show. 

Of Dorkings the prizewinners were good. The Cochins were a fair 
elass ; all the winners were Buff, and the cup for the first seven classes 
was awarded to them. Brahmas were all of the Dark variety, and the 
first-prize pen was very fine. There were some excellent Spanish, 
notably the first-prize pen, which is one of the best that has been seen 
of late. Polish were of moderate quality, and among the cross-bred 
fowls were some very large-framed birds. In the Variety class Créve- 
Cceurs were first, Houdans second, and Black Hamburghs third. In 
the class for single Game cocks Mr. Brough was first with a smart 
well-shown Black Red, closely pressed by a good bird of the same 
colour shown by Mr. Aykroyd, and the third was Brown Red. In the 
class for a cock and hen the first and second-prize birds were Brown 
Reds, and the third Black Reds. The cup for the best pen was 
awarded here. The class was good throughout. With the exception 
of the first-prize pen, the Duckwings were poor, but in the Variety 
elass was a pen of Whites such asare nowrarelyseen. Of Hamburghs 
the classes were small, with the exception of the Golden-spangled, 
which were both numerous and of high quality, and the cup for this 
section was won by the first-prize pen. The neighbourhood of Bed- 
lington is famous for Bantams, and the entries of this year fully bore 
out its reputation; and for the second year the cup for the best pen 
has been won by a local exhibitor, and on each occasion with Black 
Red Game, although this time closely run by a neat pen shown by Mr. 
Rogers, of Sunderland. The first-prize Bantam cock, a Black Red, 
was almost perfect. In the Variety class for Game the first-prize 
birds were a good pen of Piles; and in the next class very good Blacks 
were first and second, and Golden Sebrights third. Several classes 
were devoted to cottagers, and some good specimens of most kinds 
were shown. 

In the Pigeon department we have to record a novel method of ex- 
hibiting, of the adyantages of which we are somewhat doubtful, although 
we confess we can see an advantage to exhibitors, as it is without doubt 
showing made easy ; we refer to the system of exhibiting one bird as 
a pen, either sex being eligible. The success in this case was some- 
what varied, only the Tumblers, Turbits, Jacobins, and Variety class 
producing any numbers. The entries in the remaining classes weie 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


411 


bat few. The Carriers were poor, but the Tumblers good, all the 
winners in the latter class being Almond. In Pouters the first was a 
Red cock very good in all points, and the second Blue. A medal by 
subscription was offered for the best bird from an owner living in the 
county of Durham or Northumberland, the bird not having won the 
cup for the best in the show, and it was awarded to a perfect Black 
Turbit, the second in the same class being a handsome Yellow. Barbs 
were moderate, but the Jacobins most exquisite. The first prize and 
cup for the best pen were won by Mr. Haansbergen with a Black as 
perfect as can be wished for, two second prizes being awarded, one 
going to Red and the other to Yellow. Fantails were poor, but the 
Variety class made amends, as most of the birds were worthy of a 
place. The first was a Black Mottle Trumpeter, and the second a 
Yellow Dragoon. 

The Show was a great success, and the number of visitors was very 
great. 


Dorernes.—l, J. White, Warlaby. 2, W. Swann, Hirst Head, Bedlington, 
8, Miss M. Storey, Arcot Hall, Dudley. 

Cocurns.—1 and Cup, G. H. Proctor, Durham. 2, W. Atkinson, Bishop Auck- 
land. 8.T. Graham, Netherton. hc, J. Hina, Strickland Gate, Kendal; G. H. 
Proctor. c, Miss E. Swann, Hirst Head, Bedlington. 

Brana Poorras —l, E. Aykroyd, Eccleshill, Leeds. 2, J. Neasham, West 
Sleekburn, Bedlington. 8, W. Atkinson. c, T. Thornton, Cowpen, Blyth; E. 
Corney, Whitby. fae 

SpanisH.—l, W. Atkinson. 2, Sanderson & Oliver, Whalton. 8, H. Wilkin- 
son, Earby, Skipton. hc, M. Gibson, Woodhorn, Morpeth; W. Jaggs, Blyth. 

PorisH.—l, Parsons & Wilson, Barrington. 2, W. Bearpark, Ainderby 
Steeple 8, Buglass & Williamson, Carville. hc, Z. S. Turner, Borough- 
bridge ls 4 

Barnpoor Fowns (Cross bred).—1, R. P. Moon, Driffield. 2, H. Merkin, 
Driffield. 8, R. Moor, East Rainton. he, J. Glessal, Milnthorpe; Miss E. 
Swann; C. Armstrong, Bebside. 

ANY OTHER VARIETY EXCEPT Bantams.—1 and 3, Mrs. J. Cross, Appleby 
Vicarage Brigg (Créve-Ceur and Black Hamburghs), 2, R. Moore. 

GamE.—Black-breasted and other Reds. —1 and Cup, EB. Aykroyd. 2, T. 
and J. Robson, Bishop Auckland (Brown Red); G. Holmes, Great, Driffield. 
8, J. Brough, Carlisle (Black Red). he, Buglass & Williamson, Carville (Black 
(Red); T. Swann, Bedlington Colliery (Brown Red). c, J. Moreton, Marley Hill, 
Neweastle (Brown Red). Duckwings and other Greys.—l, T. & J_ Robson, 
Bishop Auckland. 2, E. Aykroyd. 38, G. Holmes. hc, J. Mason, Worcester. 
Any other Variety—1, G. Perey, West Cramlington Colliery. 2, J. Brough, 
Carlisle (Lemon Piles). 8, H. Mulley, Sunderland (Black). Cock.—1,J. Brough 
(Black Red). 2, E. Aykroyd. Eccleshill, Leeds (Black Red). _3, T. Swann (Brown 
Red). he, Sanderson & Oliver (Black Red); J. Watson, Knaresborough; G. 
Laws; W. Lindsey. Morpeth. [: 

Hameurcus—Golden-spangled —Cup and 1, J. Rollinson, Lindley, Otley. 
2, W. Bearpark, Ainderby Steeple, Northallerton. 8, G. Holmes, Great. Drif- 
field. he. J. Rollinson; W. Whitfield. c, R. P. Moon, Driffield; J. Watts, 
King’s Heath; G. Johnson, Choppington.  Silver-spangled—i, H. Pickles, ~ 
jun., Earby. 2, Ashton & Booth, Broadbottom, Mottram. 8,G. Holmes he, R. 
Moore, East Rainton. ¢, G. Cook, Bebside. Golden-pencilled—1, J. Rollinson. 
2, W. Whitfield, Hetton-le-Hole. 2.H.Pickles, jun. he, J.Armstrong, Carlisle ; 
R. Moore; T. H. Redman, c, J. Armstrong. Silver-pencilled —), H. Pickles, 
jun. 2, Parsons & Wilson, Barrington. 8, R. Blackburn. c,G. Holmes. | 

Bantams.—Any Variety.—Cock—i, G. Todd. 2, E. Rutherford (Sebright). 
Equal 2, J Young, Kitty Brewster (Brown Red). 8, H. P. & W. Gray, Tow Law, 
Durham (Black Red). he, G. Dobson, Longtown (Black Red). 

Game Banvams.—Black-breasted and other. Reds.—Cup and 1, A. Hay, Bed- 
lington. 2, W. Rogers, Sunderland. 8, G. Dowie, Bedlington. he, G. Hall, 
Kendal; W. Grice, Crosshouse, Bootle; F, Steel, Burnley ; J. Archbold, Barls- 
town. Any other Variety—1, T. C. & BE. Newbitt, Epworth. 2, T. Reavely, 
Bedlington Station (Duckwings). 3,H. P. & W. Gray (Piled). Any other Variety 
except Game.—tl, B. R. Turner (Black). 2, G. Taylor (Black). 8, W. Davison, 
Bebside (Golden-laced). he, H. Pickles (Black). ‘ 

Duoxs.—Aylesbury—1, Miss Wilson, Morpeth. 2, O.A. Young, Driffield. 
8,T Carver, Langthorpe. he, J. O'Leary, Bedlington. Rouwen.—l, T. Carver. 
2 and 8, Miss 8. F. Wilson. Any other Variety.—1, J. Swann, Bedlington 
(Muscovy). 2, Mrs. T. S. Bramwell, Jesmond Dene Hall (Buenos Ayres). 
Miss Wilson. 

GuINEA Fow1s.—l, Miss Wilson. 2, J. Robson, Stannington. 8, 0. A. Young. 

Serine Crass.—l, J. Stark, Bebside (Brown Red Game). 2, J. Yellowly, 
Barrington (Partridge Cochins). 3, J. Stalker, Bedlington (Spanish). he, G. 
Hall (Brahmas); W. Jaggs, Blyth (Spanish). 

COTTAGERS’ CLASSES. 

Gaun—Any Variety.—1, T. Aisbett, Bedlinoton Colliery (Black Red) 2, T. 
Swann (Brown Reds). 8, ©. Rutherford (Black Red). he, M. Mycroft, Bebside. 

Hampourcus.— Any Variety: —1, D. Cheyne, Bebside. 2, T. Stephenson, 
West Sleekburn (Golden-pencilled). 3, G. Johnson, Choppington. hc, R. 
Parsons, Barrington. . 

ANY VARIETY NOT PrEvIousLY MpNTionrED.—1, J. Mills, Netherton (Cinna- 
mon Cochins). 2, R. Parsons. ee 

Bantams.—Any Variety.—l, E. Rutherford (Black). 2, G. Dowie. 3, G. Bell, 
Bedlington (Black Red). 

PIGEONS. 


Carriers, G. Sadler, Boroughbridge. 2, H. Yardley, Birmingham. 
c, Messrs. W.R. & H. O. Blenkinsopp, Newcastle. i 

TumELers (Any Variety).—l, W. Roberts, Newcastle. 2,R. Daniels, New- 
cant Gelccolear) he, Messrs. W. R. & H. O. Blenkinsopp (2); R. Anderson, 
Newcastle. 

PourErs.—l, R. P. Moon, Driffield. 2,T.Rule, Durham. he, J. Bell, New- 
castle-on-Tyne; R. Daniels. f 

Owns.—1 and 2, W. R. & H. O. Blenkinsopp. 

TuRBITS.—1 and Medal, W. B. Van Haansbergen, Newcastle. 2, J. G. Dunn, 
Newcastle. hc, R. Thompson, Penrith (2); W. Bearpark; R. Frew, Kirkealdy. 

Banps.—l and 2, R. Daniels. he, ©. Gravil, jan., Thorne. c, W. R. & H.O. 
Blenkinsopp. 

JACOBINS.—1 and Cup and 2, W. B, Van Haansbergen. Extra 2 and he, T. 
Rule. c, W. R. & H. O. Blenkinsopp. i 

Fantarts.—l, T. Rule. 2,W B. Van Haansbergen. he, H. Yardley. 

Any oTHFR VAniETy—l, T. Rule. 2. J. G. Dunn (Dun Dragoon). lic, M. 
Ord, Ferry Hill (2); J. Cundale, Copt Hewick, Ripon; H. Yardley; W. Bear- 

ark (2); R. Anderson. a 4 
H pales Crass—l and, R. & J. F. Baldwin (Red Turbits and Jacobins). 
he, J. Miller, Newcastle (Yellow Turbit). c, W. J. Donkin, Newcastle (Pates). 


The Judges were Mr. E. Hutton, Pudsey, and Mr. Shorthose, New- 
castle-on-Tyne. 


Dearu or Mrs. Curcurster, of RuNNAMoAT.—The demise of 
this amiable and accomplished lady, the wife of Lieut.-Colonel 
C. Raleigh Chichester, and eldest daughter of the late James 
Balfe, Hsq., took place at her residence at Runnamoat, on the 
29th of April, and in the fortieth year of her age. This lady 


412 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 8, 1871. 


did much to encourage industrial pursuits in the county of 
Roscommon, and her dairy, poultry-yard, and other matters of 
feminine care were a model to the county, and secured prizes 
at several shows in different parts of the country. She wasa 
kind lady to her humbler neighbours, and exerted herself much 
to promote whatever would tend to improve their condition. 


COURIER PIGEONS. 


Tue following are extracts from an interesting paper read by Mr. R. 
W. Aldridge, before the West Kent Natural History Society :—It is to 
the modern Belgians that we must award the honour of developing 
and applying to practical purposes that marvellous instinct by which 
the Pigeon finds his home from almost incredible distances. This 
instinct they have aptly termed “‘prientation,” the nearest reading of 
_ which is the power of finding the cardinal points. About the year 
1820 the discovery was first made that by coupling Pigeons possessing 
distinct qualities, as high flying, strength of wing, and keenness of vision, 
a breed of birds might be produced combining all these qualities in one 
individual. These birds have been produced, and are now known in 
England as Antwerps. It must not be supposed that the present per- 
fection to which Pigeons have attained was arrived at without the 
greatest attention and perseverance on the part of the Belgian ama- 
teurs ; indeed, their capabilities were but gradually brought out. In 
the year above mentioned, a circumstance occurred which gave a great 
impetus to the already rising interest. It was the return of a Pigeon 
from Paris to its home at Verviers, a distance of over 150 miles— 
a feat hitherto without precedent, and considered so wonderful that 
the bird, enclosed in a basket, was carried in triumph through the 
town, preceded by two men playing on violins, accompanied by two 
small pieces of ordnance, which were discharged at the entrance of 
the principal streets, to announce the arrival of the hero. 

Up to this period a few unimportant sociétés colombophiles had 
existed ; but now their growth was so rapid, that at the present time 
there is scarcely a Belgian village of any consideration without its 
society. L’ Epervier newspaper, published at Brussels, is the organ of 
three hundred such societies, and confines itself to chronicling their 
movements, such as reporting races, announcing forthcoming meetings, 
advertising rewards for strayed Pigeons, public sales, and nowvelles 
colombophiles in general. There also exist two societies, one offering 
rewards for the destruction of birds of prey, the other for prosecuting 
persons detected in poaching or injuring Pigeons; and within the last 
few weeks a petition signed by upwards of four thousand amateurs has 
been presented to the Chamber of Representatives, urging still more 
stringent laws. 

The great race of the country takes place annually in July. It is 
organised in Brussels. In 1868 the number of birds engaged was 
fifteen hundred. Both the King and the Comte de Flandre give 
handsome presents, and the city of Brussels subscribes 900f. These 
facts show that the interest taken in this national hobby is even more 
universal than that created by our English Derby. Before the iatro- 
duction of railways in Belgium, the mode by which the societies’ 
Pigeons were trained was certainly economical, primitive, and pic- 
turesque. A charette (country cart) was engaged ; it was hooped over 
and covered in with canvas; perches and food were provided for the 
use of the birds. The driver was directed to the local authorities of 
some distant town, who witnessed the flying and attested the fact. 
Another system, but even more primitive, was by the ‘‘ hotte,” which 
was a wicker basket made to fit the shoulders and back of a convoyeur: 
the ‘“‘hotte”’ was divided into five flats, or floors, each capable of hold- 
ing ten Pigeons. With this load of fifty, the poor unfortunate wretch, 
with his still more unfortunate passengers, journeyed frequently ten or 
twelve days before they reached their destination; the birds to obtain 
their liberty, and he his coveted certificate of the fulfilment of his en- 
gagement. Fortunately, facilities have grown with the necessity. The 
“charette” and ‘“hotte” are things of the past. It is now no un- 
common sight on special days to see from three to four hundred 
baskets of Pigeons arrive at the same railway station, to be flown from 
that particular neighbourhood under the superintendence of a com- 
missionnaire appointed by a confederation of sociétés colombophiles. 

The training of young birds is now conducted in Belgium in a much 
more systematic manner thanit isin England. Here every one trains 
according to his notions, while in Belgium it is managed principally by 
the societies. Two methods appear to be in practice. In the first the 
young bird is not required to take part in any contest before the month 
of June or July ; but before the close of the flying season will be ex- 
pected to have done a journey of at least 150 miles. Some amateurs 
object to this training as being too severe, and prefer the second method, 
as follows :—During the first year the young bird is only subjected to 
inconsiderable distances ; the second year it is allowed to mature itself 
in idleness; but the third year, asit isthen considered to have attained 
full development of all its faculties, it is retained until its performance 
is satisfactory, both in speed and distance. 

As examples of what Pigeons are capable of doing, I quote from an 
unquestionable living authority, M. F. Chapuis, M.D., and Doctor of 
Natural Science, of Verviers. In his published list of twenty-one 
races, or flies, he mentions one from St. Sebastian, in Spain, to 
Liege, in Belgium, a distance of 550 miles, in sixteen hours. 
Pigeon belonging to M. Grooters, of Brussels, has recently taken first 
prize in a race from Narbonne to Brussels, 510 miles. M. Ida 


Vivier, of Courtrai, in Belginm, possessed a bird that had flown from 
Belfast, Ireland, to Conrtrai. Upon reference to the map this flight 
appears to be even more marvellous than the others, as the bird must 
have crossed St. George’s Channel, England, and the Irish Channel. 
Instances of long journeys performed by untrained birds are by no 
means uncommon. The last-named gentleman recently possessed a 
bird that had flown from Chateauroux, in France, to Courtrai, 
276 miles, without any training whatever, and this bird was an im- 
ported Black Dragoon. It is very questionable if it would have done 
the distance in England at all; for it must be taken into consideration 
that the country passed over was remarkably favourable, there being 
few elevations, and a south wind usually prevailing, which would 
greatly facilitate the passage of the bird. 

But although the Belgian voyageurs certainly excel any English 
breed in distance, ours have the advantage in speed ; for, upon examin- 
ing the results of several races, I find the greatest velocity attained 
does not exceed five-eighths of a mile (one kilométre) per minute. A 
feature worthy of consideration, as a reason why the Belgian Pigeons 
excel in flying such distances in France and in their own country, is 
that they are at a certain season of the year often driven by their 
owners to seek their own living, and as both Belgium and France are 
grain-growing countries, the birds have at such season no difficulty in 
satisfying their wants from the growing crops while in course of making 
any very long journey—an advantage not possessed by Pigeons in 
England. It is my impression that we possess in our sheer Dragoons 
and coarse Beards, or crosses from them, birds that under the same 
circumstances of careful breeding, feeding, and training, combined with 
flatness of country and clearness of atmosphere, would do all of which 
the celebrated Antwerp is capable. So careful are some breeders of 
birds destined for long distances that they only permit one young one 
to be raised by the parents, and will not train a bird hatched later 
than the middle of February, and none later than the middle of March. 

A great diversity of opinion exists with regard to the colour of the 
eye, ‘‘ pearl eyes” being much preferred; but one of the most cele- 
brated birds now in Belgium has black, or bull eyes, a colour always 
repudiated here. I find that this celebrated bird has beaten all tts 
competitors in travelling in foggy or very heavy weather, and has 
reached its home late of an evening, when the others have lodged for 
the night, and not returned until the following morning, as is custo- 
mary in long flights, there being only one instance on record of a 
Pigeon haying flown 500 miles in one day. I think this apparent 
eccentricity in the colour of the eye in so good a bird may be satis- 
factorily explained in this way. The Woodcock, Snipe, and all night- 
flying birds possess black eyes. The wild Duck has a piercing black 
eye, and not only flies at night, but sees well urder water. The 
Swallow, so active at the close of the day, has similar-coloured organs 
of vision. On the other hand, the Capulet, a Pigeon scarcely known 
in England, has an eye infinitely whiter than pearl. It is the highest- 
flying and the longest on the wing of all the Pigeon tribe, and mostly 
chooses mid-day for its flights. I have just had presented to me by 
the President of the Sociéte peristerophile of Courtrai, a noted bird of 
this species, which has been known to be on the wing from 8 A.M. to 
3 p.m. From such facts as these I consider it conclusive that pearl or 
white-eyed birds succeed the best in broad daylight and clear weather,. 
while the black or bull-eyed are the most to be depended upon under 
directly contrary circumstances. The faculty by which Pigeons find 
their way home, I think, may be explained thus. Upon being set at. 
liberty the bird at once mounts in the air and performs three circles. 
This flying in circles is entirely confined to Pigeons. On making the 
last round it takes a straight course to an uncertain distance, and if at 
the end of that distance its vision fails to recognise an object within. 
the circle of the locality of its home, it returns to the place whence it 
has flown, when it again sets off in an opposite direction, and repeats 
the experiment until it either catches sight of some familiar landmark, 
or gives up in despair, and becomes a lost bird. Mr. James Glashier, 
the celebrated aéronaut, being present, stated that when over London 
one mile high he clearly saw the cliffs of Dover with the naked eye; 
presuming the vision of a Pigeon to be no stronger, it would then. 
take in at that height a circumference of atleast seventy miles. Thus, 
if the bird be thrown 100 miles distant, it would see forty miles within 
the circle of its home locality. Long distances, such as 500 or 600: 
miles, as a rule, are only attained by progressive training, by which the, 
memory of the bird is educated. 


CANARIES AND RABBITS AT STROUD SHOW. 
IN THE FANCY—CANARIES. 


Tuey were born the night we arrived, the ‘‘twosome” were; one, 
at least, was, I am sure, for I found the shell in the bottom of the 
cage. It’s just a week to-night since we four—that is, our host and 
hostess, ‘“‘B. B.” and I, filed out of the dining-room after dinner, 
bent on a visit to the birdroom. Our hostess, who is ‘‘in the fancy,” 
led us out at the front door, round the end of the house, along a short 
path hedged with evergreens, across the back courtyard, past ‘‘ Darkie’s’” 
kennel (Darkie is a fox-terrier of noble family, great at fox or badger, 
and addicted to cats), up an extemporised staircase, to ascend whick 
necessitated an acrobatic performance with a rope, and we stood 


A } within the precincts of the sanctum sanctorum. I don’t know which 


was the more difficult feat of the two—to ascend that staircase with a 
bunch of groundsel in one hand and a plate of chopped egg in the 


/ 


June 8, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


413 


other, and take hold of the rope the best way one could, or to make 
the descent with a bowl of water, a dustpan, and a long-handled 
brush. Somebody will come to grief at that staircase some day. But 
I am going on too fast, beginning at the middle. 

As far back as before last Christmas I received an invitation from a 
gentleman “in the fancy” to spend a portion of the vacation in 
Gloucestershire. At that time he had not entered the charmed circle, 
though engaged in making active preparations to do so by furnishing 
a bird room. His experience in Canary-breeding had been chiefly 
confined to an illegitimate sort of business, about which just one word 
for any whom it may interest. In a pleasant corner of the lawn 
stands the old Canary establishment, a circular aviary, brick founda- 
tion, rustic uprights (I think they were larch poles), about one-third 
of the circumference boarded to afford protection from prevailing 
winds, and the rest neatly wired; a heavily-thatched roof, rockwork, 
and roses, and you have the aviary. Here, without any protection 
whatever other than I have mentioned, Canaries live in comfort all 
the year round. Asthma, puff, pant, blow, bronchitis, wheezing, and 
sneezing are alike unknown; and when the snow, drifting in through 
the uncovered wirework, lay inches deep in the interior, and it was 
necessary to break the ice in the water vessels morning, noon, and 
night, the inmates suffered no discomfort, but sang away as cheerily 
as the little German fellow in the morning-room, who lives in a genial 
atmosphere, and is surrounded by a very paradise of exotics, and 
pours out of his little throat such long trills and gushes of delicious 
melody. 

But to return to the aviary for a moment. Nest boxes are sus- 
pended against the protected side of the erection, and, material being 
supplied, the hens build away, each according to its own ideas of 
domestic comfort, and with some diversity of architectural design. 
Apparently they hold very easy views of the rights of property, as 
many of the nests held two tenants, the spirit of peace and harmony 
pervading the whole scene seeming to indicate very little probability 
of there ever being a disputed claim to the title of any estate. 

Business and other engagements conspired to prevent my travelling 
south in the winter, but being retained to judge at the late Stroud 
Show, I bethought me of my long-standing invitation, and that is how 
I last week found myself at the base of the Cotswolds. ‘B. B.” 
went with me on this occasion. I do not like to expose family secrets, 
but I was afraid she would break out ina fresh place and write another 
letter. 

To us who live in an atmosphere of smoke, in a district exposed to 
long-continuing east winds, which blight and blacken the half-developed 
beauties of early spring, where timbered hedgerows are regarded as 
iniquities, and wire fences ornamental, the sylvan beauties of Glou- 
cestershire appeared more than ordinarily lovely. Picturesque little 
roadside thatched cottages, overhung with vines or clustering roses, 
aze represented with us by a severe article in brick, while the many 
concomitants of a manufacturing and mining locality form prominent 
features in our landscape. A few hours express behind the iron horse 
carried us from all this into another world. It had been raining the 
greater part of the afternoon, and Nature looked grateful for the 
refreshing showers. Every stage of our journey introduced us to new 
beauties and ever-varying prospects. A drive of about four miles 
from Cheltenham and we were at home. Suchahome! A fine old 
English house, only sufficiently modernised to convey the idea of addi- 
tional comfort, surrounded by every conceivable beauty, and the whole, 
to us, invested with a charm which no word-painting of mine can 
depict. 

And after dinner we went into the bird room, concerning which and 
the “‘ twosome,” as we say inthe north, more anon. And there we sat 
and talked Canary, my old friend up above dodging about behind the 
still heavy rain-clouds, and smiling complacently on ‘the fancy.” 
There we sat till the tea bellrang. The flying trapeze performance 
and the perilous descent were safely accomplished, and after tea (with 
a little more Canary), and finally something else out of a sort of over- 
grown chronometer box, we retired to rest, and the last event of the 
day of which I have any distinct recollection was the clock of the 
village church striking twelve, and chiming the melody usually sung 
to Lyte’s beautiful composition— 

“ Abide with me, fast falls the eventide.” 


“B. B.” told me next morning that it chimed three verses, but—— I 
never heard the end of the third.—W. A. Buakston. 


(To be continued.) 


RABBITS. 

Tue assemblage of Rabbits was of such high merit that it deserves 
more than a mere record of the names of the prize-winners given in 
our last week's Journai. It is very rarely that so numerous a collec- 
tion is found, especially at a first show, as I believe this one was. The 
pens were large, even larger than I have seen them for pairs of Rab- 
bits, and well supplied with hay and oats; and a small portion of green 
food was given, for this is used with caution by some of our largest 
breeders. I have no doubt all the Rabbits returned home none the 
worse for their visit to Stroud. I must warn exhibitors of the im- 
portance of their animals being at the show in time, for some valuable 
specimens did not arrive at Stroud until after the awards had been 
made. The judging commenced at eight o'clock, and every Rabbit 
was taken from its pen, and the ears of every ‘“‘ Lop” measured, and 
the size recorded; and it was remarked that the healthiness of the 


| whole was very satisfactory. The owners of one or two specimens 
amongst the Lops, however, will do well to examine the ears of their 
Rabbits, and sprinkle in them a little flowers of sulphur—a never- 
failing application to remove any small accumulation of ‘‘ gum” that 
will at times appear. The gum is no injury to the Rabbit if taken in 
time, and is perfectly cleared off in a few days. 

The schedule attracted some thirty-seven Lops, twelve Himalayan, 
eight Angoras, eleven Silver-Greys, and thirteen Belgian and Dutch 
for the ‘‘ Any other variety” class, or about eighty-one entries in 
all, and it is rather a difficulty to decide which of these specimens 
attracted the most attention. The Self-coloured class presented some 
good animals, and the first-prize doe of Mr. Grayil, Thorne, possesses 
some good points of merit; also the buck of Mr. C. H. King, of St. 
John’s Wood, London. The third-prize doe of Mr. G. Quick, from 
St. John’s Wood, also gives promise of becoming a good Rabbit. In 
the Black or Blue and White class were found some well-marked 
animals, and Mr. H. Ridley’s doe, from Hallfield, York, deserved the 
first position she took, and the second-prize buck of Mr. C. King also is 
deserving of favourable mention. The third-prize doe of Mr. A. H. 
Easten, West Parade House, Hull, is well marked. The Yellow and 
White class presented a large first-prize Rabbit, well marked, owned 
by Mr. W. Arkwright, Sutton Scarsdale, Chesterfield, and the speci- 
mens of Messrs. P. Ashton, Drypool, Hull, and J. EK. Palmer, Peter- 
borough, should also have favourable mention. In the Tortoiseshell, 
the buck (first-prize), belonging to Mr. A. H. Easten, deserved the 
prize awarded, as the marking is well varied for this class; and Mr. 
King’s two prize-winners are good, as also Mr. Gravil’s. This class 
as a whole was excellent. The Lops, in their five classes, included 
some of the best Rabbits in the country. 

The Himalayan were almost on an equality as regards merit, so 
that considerable care was requisite to determine the most excellent. 
Mr. Boyle's first-prize was closely followed by Mr. J. Butterworth’s 
(Rochdale) second-prize Rabbit, both excellent, with the deep dark 
shade on all extremities ; andthe third-prize of Mr. H. Cawood, Thorne, 
gives promise of a good Rabbit and large, which we do not always find 
in this variety—they are usually too short and stumpy. The Angoras 
in all their fleecy whiteness presented a favourable contrast to their 
neighbours in the next pen. The first-prize of Mr. C. King was large 
and well woolled; also that of Mr. Barrett, jun., Stroud, and Mr. H. 
Cawood, both young Rabbits, but evidently from a good strain, with 
hair of that silky fineness so much to be desired, and also of great. 
length. Some other specimens deserve mention, as those of Messrs. 
Easten and J. Butterworth. They were beautifully clean and white ; 
and I may hint that if exhibitors would just consider how the beauty 
of these showy animals is increased by the use of the comb they would 
not deny them that little attention. The “cute” Silver-Grey of Mr. 
A. H. Etches, Stafford Street, Market Drayton, a large, beautifully 
silvered animal, fully deserved the position she took, the silvering is 
so general. The doe of Mr. 8S. G. Hudson, Paragon Street, Hull, is 
an excellent specimen, large and well-formed; and that of Mr. J. 
Wigmore, Painswick, is a neat specimen. This class was well repre- 
sented. The ‘Any other variety” class contained some good speci- 
} mens of the Black and White, Grey and White, and Yellow and White 
Dutch, and some fine Belgian Hare Rabbits. The first-prize Dutch 
Rabbit of Mr. J. Boyle is an almost perfectly marked specimen. Mr. 
Sabbage, Northampton, came in for the second prize with a neat Blue 
buck, and the Yellow and White of Mr. Barrett, jun., gives promise of 
a good Rabbit. The fine Belgian Hare Rabbits of Mr. 8. G. Hudson 
are too valuable to escape notice. The Selling class contained some 
good Lops from Messrs. C. King, G. Quick, and E. Vaughan, Bir- 
mingham, and the prizes awarded to these Rabbits (Lops) were not 
more than their merits entitled them to. The cup for the winner of 
most points was taken by Mr. C. King, and to it he was fully entitled. 
—CHARLES Rayson. f 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Rainway CHarceE (C. Leat)—We cannot find space for details of dis- 
puted charges. 

Inqurry —C. Norman, Westerfield, would be glad to know if there is 
any such person, or place, as T. H. Kilshaw, 4, Kensington Street, Ken- 
sington, near Liverpool. 

RomrorpD SHow (I. W. B.).—It is in Essex. 

SWELLING ON THE Bat oF A Fowr’s Foot (J——.).—The cause may be 
twofold. It may be from bruising the ball of the foot by flying down 
from a high perch; or it may be from a small stone or fragment of flint 
that has pierced the skin. In either case you must poultice the foot and 
remove that which offends. The bird must have the foot wrapped up till 
the wound is cured. 

Woopprince Pouttry SHow (J. S.).—Let your solicitor give the 
Secretary notice that unless the money for the fowls sold be immediately 
paid to you, proceedings will follow in the County Court; and carry out 
that threat if needed. 

Braumas (J. A. P.).—The best work on this variety is Wright’s “ The 
Brahma Fowl.” You can haye it post free from our oflice if you enclose 
5s. 3d. with your address. 

Knowrne Ducxiines’ AGE (H. H., Sydenham).—You cannct tell the 
exact age of a duckling if its life counts by weeks. Food has much in- 
fluence. Three good meals of proper food per day make ‘osm: zone and 
fibrin,” and the recipient thrives; while ‘‘a lack of meat and no yege- 
tables” check growth and strength. The indications of youth are soit 
feathers, which have no quills, the remains of down on the head, the 
absence of feather on the web of the wing, extreme delicacy of the skin 


414 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 8, 1871. 


that covers the legs, and a very soft bill. Size, development, and con- 
dition are dependant on food. With ground oats, barleymeal, vegetables, 
grass, fresh mould, and road grit, we need no “ patent food.” We do not 
like it, and we never use it. 

Rearine Parrrivces (£. MW. B.).—As soon’ as your birds are out, let 
them be conveyed with the hen to adry grass field, and if on arising ground 
somuch the better. The hen must be under a rip, the bars of which 
allow free egress andingress to the young. Ifit be a clover field, some 
small runs should be cut extending a yard or two from the rip; it is good 
for them while young, and when older they will work their own way into 
the stuff. Feed them on bread ‘and milk, chopped egg, chopped cooked 
meat, bread and cheese, curd, and bruised corn, .Let them always have 
fresh water. You should hatch and rear all. 


Cross BETWEEN SILVER-GREY AND Brown DorkINGS (Constant Reader). 
—Beyond a doubt; and we.should expect good things of the produce. It 
will often happen to you, when you are trying to breed pure Silycr-Greys, 
that you will get such as you will have now. 

CocuIN-CHINA PuLLeT Layine av ELEVEN WEEKS OLD (D. I).—It is 
a very unusual occurrence. The earliest we ever knew was fourteen 
weeks. It is not very rare to find pullets laying at sixteen weeks old. 
The atmosphere in which she has been kept may have had an influence 
in the matter. 


EXHIBITING GAME Fow1s (Juno).—It is better to put a Game cock up for 
a week before he is shown. Feed on ground oats, chopped raw meat, and 
a few white peas. Some give raw yolk of egg, Keep him very clean. 
The principal difference between the Black and Brown Reds is, that in 
one the breast must be black, while in the other it must be brown. 


Rounts not REARING THEIR YOUNG AND LAYING DOUBLE-YOLKED EcGes 
(W. C. Morris).—Runts are bad nurses—that is, if they are good Runts, 
Runts of large size. Itis best to keep a number of common Pigeons to 
raise the young ones, Across between an Antwerp or Dragoon anda 
common Runt makes strong, good feeders, and their own young being 
large are acceptable in the kitchen. It would seem to be alawin Pigeons, 
that wherever there is a very great departure from the original type, 
whether in largeness, smallness, or alteration of form to a great degree 
in any way, then the Pigeons so altered are bad rearers of their young. 
Thus this is seen in Runts, Almond Tumblers, and well-bred Pouters, 
and we find it so in the very small Scotch Fantails. In Spanish fowls 
the largest eggs are laid in the spring, and then double eggs are not 
unusual, but it is, we believe, far less usual among Pigeons, though we 
are not surprised in the case of Runts. 

Various (M. R. Fairer)—The above answer replies to one of your 
questions. Your birds are high-bred, and all such Tumblers neglect 
their young, pairing again and nesting too soon, and the young ones die, 
as you say, with their crops full, and really of cold, they needing the 
warmth of their parents. The cross you mention will produce birds 
strawberry in colour and utterly useless. No true fancier crosses varie- 
ties. Feed your flying Tumblers more sparingly, and drive them up in 
the morning before feeding. Good flying Tumblers should not be kept 
‘with other varieties, and should be regularly trained to fly. 

PicroNS—THE WHITE Eyer (Reader).—We are inclined to think that 
the birds you describe are thorough mongrels. There is no breed known 
as ‘The White Eye.” There are many varieties that are imperfect un- 
less they have the white eye, but such point alone is no reason why any 
variety separately should monopolise the name. Barbs, Nuns, Magpies, 
Balds, Beards, and Tumblers should all have white eyes. Many, and 
some of the best, too, of the Antwerps haye white eyes, and some are 
without bars or a coloured neck, in fact almost colourless; and we think 
the birds to which you allude are a cross between the inferior colourless 
Antwerp and the Long-faced Tumbler, for Tumblers fly high and fora 
great length of time; they also have white eyes and a Dove-shaped beak. 
They will without ditiiculty find their home from a reasonable distance. 


FLEAS oN RaBBits (Young Subscriber).—Your Rabbits may be cured of 
fleas by sprinkling their skins with ‘‘Keating’s Insect Powder.’ The 
hutches should be cleaned out oftener than once a-week, and a disinfec- 
tant used; then pine woodsawdust. Use oat straw for bedding, and lime 
whitewash at times during this hot weather. Let the hutches be well 
ventilated. 

QuEENLESS Hive (H. J., Thames Dition).—Ifthe brood comb which you 
inserted has failed, you had better procure a secondswarm and shake the 
bees into the hive. 

Unitine Hives (Amateur).—Allow your stocksto work as they are until 
autumn, then drive and unite the bees, putting them all into the best of 
the three. If you use frame hives, youcould now drive out, in succession, 
the bees of your weak stocks into one straw hive; having cut out the 
combs fix the best and all those containing brood into frames in the 
manner so often described in this Journal; and then knock out the united 
bees on the tops of the frames, You would inthis manner probably make 
a really strong and prosperous colony. 

SWARM LEAVING Hive (4. 4., Richmond, Surrey)—Your swarm has 
most probably lost its queen; if so, you will hardly succeed in inducing 
the bees to remain in any hive you may give them. If they do, but still 
show a disinclination to work, procure, if you can, a second swarm, and 
unite it tothem. Before doing so, turn up the first swarm, and see if any 
combs have been built, and whether they are worker or drone-celled, and 
if the latter, cut them out. Your hive being new had nothing to do with 
the bees’ desertion. 

MESSING INSIDE oF HiyvE—TANGING (D. K.).—An expericnced apiarian 
would not have “ well dressed” the straw hive with syrup prior to shaking 
in the swarm. No wonder that the bees were disgusted with the nasty 
clammy state of the interior of their new quarters, and preferred trying 
to seek others. A dirty rotten old skep, if dry, would haye been more 
acceptable to them. We also thought that the practice of “tanging” 
bees, with the idea of causing them to settle satisfactorily, was confined 
to the most ignorant class of bee-keepers. We have constantly, in the 
pages of this Journal, endeavoured to convince our apiarian readers of 
the inutility and injudiciousness of making noises of any kind when a 
Swarm is in the air. 

Woopsury Hive, Frames, Super, &o. (Bee-keeper, Galway).—Two of 
the bees sent appear to be small drones, the others were too much crushed 
for us to give any opinion as to what they are. Unless specially ordered, 
the frames of the Woodbury hive are generally sent out entire, the majority | 

of bee-keepers finding a difficulty in manipulating with tho loose bars. | 


Whether you have the right Woodbury hive or an imitation we do not 
know, but assuredly you have not the proper super for it, which should 
certainly have bars identical in every respect with those which fit in the 
compound irames. You had better ordera set of thelatter; you will find 
both these and the solid frame useful. The bars should not be removed 
from the hive prior to hiving the swarm. The inventor of the Woodbury 
hive neither makes hives nor employs any agent for their sale. 

_ Min? Sauce In Winter (A New Subscriber).—Cut the mint just before 
it flowers, dry it thoroughly in 2 cool dry place, then rub it into a powder, 
bottle it, cork tightly, and use as needed. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN SQuaRrE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Date. 9 A.M. In THE Day. 
nebo e F _) Radiation 4 
1871. 223— EL ELOMIe; Direc-| Temp. Sade em Tempera- | § 
Sa—q5| ‘et _|tion offof Soij| "@ "| ture. | | & 
June. | 3 was Wind. | at 1 ft. | In , On 
mSs7| Dry. . Min.} sun.’ grass 
Inches.} deg. deg. | deg.| deg, ~ 
We. 31 | 90.155 | 62.7 N. | 588 sre [ise | soa | 
Th. 1 30.063 | 62.8 Siw. 58.2 45.8 {1180 | 424 = 
Fri. 2 | 80.151 | 54.0 N.E. 56.6 40.9 }115.9 | 88.8 | — 
Sat. 3 | 30200 | 48.4 N. | 555 41.4 |109.1 | 885 | 0.015 
Sun. 4 | 29.992 | 51.2 N.E. 54.5 39.0 |118.5 | 37.2 | 0.009 
Mo. 5 | 80.176 | 56.2 N.E. 63.9 40.2 1118.8 | 37.4 aS 
Tu. 6 | 30.079 | 57.1 N. 55.4 41.7 | 90.0 | 39.3 = 
Means | 30.116 | 56.0 56.1 43.0 )110.8 | 40.5 | 0.024 
REMARKS. 


May 31st.—Dull, heavy, and storm-like till noon, then very fine. 
June Seren and stormy-looking, but getting gradually finer, fine 
night. 
2nd.—Dull and very cold all day, slight shower between 5 aud 6 P.1. 
3rd.—Cold and dull, with short glimpses of sunshine, kail at 1.24 p.m. 
4th.—Again very cold, with alternating sunshine and showers, a fino 
evening. 
5th.—Still cold, but a very bright sunshiny day. 
6th.—Rather warmer, though the heat of the sun was less. It shone very 
brightly during the afternoon, but not scorchingly; the morning 
was very dull and cold. 
Another dry week and bitterly cold on several days. Snow fell at 
scyerel places in the vicinity of London on the morning of June 4th— 
. J. SYMONS. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Jone 7. 


NotwiTHsTanDinG the drift cf cold north-easterly wind prevailing, we 
have had a liberal supply during the past week, and prices have been 
maintained, supported principally by the large orders received from the 
midland-county towns, the weather favouring the transit of both fruit 
and vegetables. Kent Peas are freely offered, and large quantities of 
Potatoes are to hand from St. Malo and the Channel Islands, with 
heavy consignments of Strawberries and Cherries from France. 


FRUIT. 

Sid 3-00 5. da, 8. d 
Apples.... 2 0to5 0 | Mulberries............lb. 0 0t00 0 
Apricots . » 2 0 8 O| Nectarines. doz.10 0 20 0 
Cherries... - 1 0 8 O} Oranges.. 32100 6 0 10 0 
Chestnuts 0 0 O G| Peaches.... doz.12 0 24 0 
Currants.. 00 00 - 00 O00 
_ Black 0 0 0 0|  dessert..... -doz. 0 0 0 n 
Figs ..... 6 0 10 0| Pine Apples . -lb. 6 0 10 O 
Filberts (OOo) 108 Plamen ¢sieve 00 O09 
Cobs.... «lb. 2 0 2 6] Quinces.. BAO ye 
Gooseberries......quart 0 6 0 8/| Raspberries 00-04 
Grapes, Hothouse.... lb. 6 0 12 Q| Strawberries . - 6 0 10 oO 
5 : 6 0 10 0| Walnnts... 10 0 16 9 
60 20 ditto... 10 289 

VEGETABLES. 


= 
ADSOSCOMANSOHOWOHWOMWMG® 


Cauliflower. Kidney............d0. 
Celery Radishes .. doz. bunches 


.... each 
-- dOz. 


y . de . de a 
Artichokes ........+. doz. to to0 6 
0 

6 

b 0 

Beet, Red. Qnions .......... bushel 10 0 
Broccoli ........ bundle pickling -. quart Q 
Brussels Spronts..}sieve Parsley... . «. sieve 0 
Cabbage...... . Parsnips. . doz. 0 
Capsicums Peas ..... ~ quart 0 
Carrots..... Potatoes... 0 
x 0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

9 


-. doz. 
-bunch 
senellb. 
Herbs.... .. bunch 
Horseradish .... bundle 


aie BOA 5 
Vegetitble Marrows..doz. 


WOSSCWOCOMEGOSOHOOCNONE EA 
SHDBSSOROMSGOCSCSOHSSOCCSOm 
Secsscecomoescocoocomsoscccom 

co 

| 

J 

& 

5 a 
COPRNOSOCSCOMNPHOWONOHOOm 
SESIRSOSCHASDSSSOCONOOR,, 
SHASSCSOSCHM ER ROMASCSSOWRHOM 


coal 


POULTRY MARKET.—Junz 7. 
Atv the time when we go to press, the signs of an increased supply are 
so patent, that we may safely say when this is in our readers’ hands, 
there will be a diminution of prices. 


5. Gd.) 8h de sd. s.d 
HargeTowls ........ 5 Qtob 6 - 0 9tod 0 
Smaller ditto .. ep 200) 4 6 L.. 2) 
Chickens .... cope ROME dere 0 9 O10 
Duce} lings Ha SW) 2.16 4 0 0 fn 
Goslings .. no th) 6 6 Guinea Fow 0 0 0 06 
Pheasants..ccceceee 0 O 0 0 | Grouse .............. 0 0 0 O 


+ 


—S 


June 15, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 415 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 

| | 

Day | Day Average Tempera- | Rainin| Sunn Sun Moon | Moon | Moon’s Suna | Day | 

Ore pars, JUNE 15—21, 1871. ture near London. |43 years.) Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets. Age. peters youl 

Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days. |m. h.|m. h.| m. h.| m. h.| Days. | m. 8. | | 
15 | TH | Royal Botanic Society’s Show closes. 72.8 | 48.2 | 60.5 19 44af3 | 16 af8 | 31 af2 | 41 af5 OTe | Oma | 166 
16 F 72.6 | 48.3 | 60.4 18 443 | 16° 8/55 2) 49 6 28 0 16 | 167 
7 |s 72.9 |478 |} 601 | 2 | 44 8/16 8|22 8/51 7] 29 0 29 | 168 
18 | Sun | 2 Sunpay AFTER TRINITY. 72.3 | 50.4 | 61.3 21 465 8) 17-18) 57) 8) 1495 (8 ts) 0 42 | 169 
19 M 70.8 | 48.6 | 59.7 22 44 8/17 8/4. 4 | Bie oi) 2 0 55 | 170 
20 Tu | Meeting of Zoological Society, 9 p.m. 72.3 | 48.6 | 60.4 20 44 8/18 8 83 5 | 20m 0 83 1 of | 17 
21 Ww Royal Horticultural Society, Fruit, Floral, | 744 | 50.5 | 62.4 18 44 8/18 8] 85 6] 58 10 4 1 21 | 172 

[ and General Meeting. | | 


From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 72.6°, and its night tem- 


perature 48.8°. 
rain was 1.46 inch. 


The greatest heat was 93°, on the 19th, 1846; and the lowest cold 80°, on the 15th, 1850, and 20th, 1865. The greatest fall of 


WHAT IS BROCCOLI ?—No. 1. 


HIS is a question which I have often asked, and 
I have searched for an answer, but in vain. 
Our old authorities are nearly mute, and our 
modern ones quite so, as to the definition of 
a Broccoli. 


supposes that the Broccolies of his time were 
derived originally from Cauliflower. 


some Broceolies and Cauliflowers ; in fact, we speak of the 
Walcheren as a Cauliflower at one time, and at another as 
a Broccoli. Hither it is a Broccoli or a Cauliflower, or there 
is no difference in the meaning of the words, and if so, 
why should not one name suffice ? 
by two names is not desirable. It misleads the public, 
and is to the gardener a source of bewilderment. 
all seed-lists we find Walcheren under the heading of 
Broccoli, and also under that of Cauliflower. This leads 
to the conclusion that Broccoli and Cauliflower have no 
distinct characteristics. But I am no believer in the iden- 
tity of Broccoli and Cauliflower. 

It is worthy of note that whilst we make great additions 
in point of names to the list of varieties of Broccoli, no 
great additions are made to that of Cauliflower. This 
tends to confirm Miller’s supposition of Broccoli being 
derived originally from the Cauliflower, for the nearer any 
plant is to its original form the more permanent or true 
it will continue in its progeny; but a cross-bred, as the 
Broccoli (in case Miller’s supposition is correct), must be 
multiplied, as it is to a great extent continually breaking 


into further deviations from the original. This is the case | 


with nearly all the Broccolies of more than ten years’ stand- 
ing. When first sent out, and for a few years afterwards, 
the kind is first-class in every respect, or is all that its 
raiser and sender-out described it to be, but after a few 
seasons a great difference is apparent in the habit, hardi- 
ness, and heading of the plants. Some have the charac- 
teristics of the kind as sent out, whilst others have no 
resemblance ; in fact, at last the kind is so degenerated 
as to make the grower glad to obtain something newer and 
more profitable. There were good Broccolies in Miller’s 
time, no doubt. Ican remember some very good twenty- 
five years ago, but none of those so recent as that are to 
be compared to the Broccoli of the present day, not more 
than one in ten of the old sorts coming true to name. 

Iam persuaded that a Broccoli, so called, sown, say, in 
April, and heading in the following autumn, is not a 
Broccoli at all, but a Cauliflower, and a variety sown after 
midsummer, and heading in the following summer, is not 
a Broccoli but a Cauliflower. A true Broccoli ‘and I 
believe there are and were such), if sown so that planting 
had to be performed after August, will not head in the 
following year, either at its proper or any season, though 
it may form a green—never white—open, stalky head, not 
unlike an open Cabbage going to seed. It is also remark- 
able that a true Broccoli from an April sowing kept dry 

No. 533,—Von. XX., NEw SERIES. 


Miller, in his ‘‘ Gardener’s Dic- | 
tionary,’ hints at the close relationship be- | 
tween Cauliflower and Broccoli; indeed he | 


My | 
opinion is that there is no difference between | 


To have a thing called | 


In almost | 


and close-standing, so that the plants are not more than 
a few inches high, with three leaves or so, and not planted 
until September, will not head in the following year, but 
instead of that will start into growth very vigorously, be- 
coming a giant in its way, and if left will produce immense 
heads in the spring, two years after sowing. 

I have also noted that the seed of true Broccoli must be 
gown so early in spring, and the plants be planted out early 
enough in summer, that they may make a good growth and 
form heads before January, or, in other words, be perfected 
by the growth of the first season, so that nothing remains 
but the development of the heads with the return of genial 

weather. If, from late sowing and planting, the plants 
have not formed a head in embryo before the growth, from 
cold, becomes stationary, they will not head in the ensuing 
spring or early part of summer, but will, as before stated, 
become giants, and form very large heads in the following 
season, or at the same time as plants from seed sown in 
April or May, though frequently they form immense green 
heads not unlike a Cabbage and run to seed. This would 
indicate the origin of Broccoli to have been an open or 
non-hearting Cabbage, and many of the varieties after they 
have been long in cultivation exhibit the non-heading ten- 

dency, which Cauliflowers, to my knowledge, never do. 

The difference in the time of sowing makes no difference 

| as regards the season of a true Broccoli coming into use. 

Sown in March, April, or May, or from either extreme of 
the thirteen weeks, there is no material difference in the 
| time of the heading or fitness for gathering or cutting. Of 
| course there is considerable difference as regards the dif- 

ferent kinds, but I am alluding to successional sowings of 
| one kind—Mammoth, for instance, being, as it is in every 
| sense, a true Broccoli—and there is no difference, except 
in the size of the plants and heads, between a sowing im 
| March and a sowing in May. ! 

A Broccoli, as I accept the term, is a hardy variety or 
offshoot of Cauliflower which does not head the same 
season as sown. Any varieties that are sown in April, 
and come into use in autumn, or that are sown in August, 
or after midsummer, and head in the following summer, 
are in my opinion Cauliflowers ; indeed, Walcheren and 
Grange’s Autumn, though they may have Broccoli parent- 
age, are as much Cauliflowers as Early London, Asiatic, 
Stadtholder, Erfurt, or any other. The Cauliflowers keep 
| up a succession from June to January, and the Broccoli 
from December to the middle of June, so that with both 
a supply of good heads can be had all the year round, and 
if we include Walcheren and Grange’s Autumn (which I 
consider Cauliflowers), there is no difficulty in keeping up a 
continual supply of Broccoli without including Cauliflowers, 
except in very severe weather in midwinter.—G. ABBEY. 


| 
| 
| 
i} 


THE JAPANESE HONEYSUCKLE. 
Tw reply to Mr. Bartrum’s remarks in your last number, 
I beg to inform him that I have flowered the Japanese 
Honeysuckle here for many years. I bought a plant as 
soon as it was sent out, in 1861 or 1862, I forget which. 


This plant bloomed at once, and in 1864 I mentioned the 


No, 1185.—Veu. XLV., OLD SERIES 


® 


416 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ June 15, 1871. 


matter to Mr. Veitch, of Chelsea. He at once said that he had 
never heard ofits haying been flowered, and asked me as a favour 
to send him some of the flowers to look at. Accordingly, next 
year (1865), I sent him a boxful of blooms, which he acknow- 
ledged, as you will see by the annexed letter, at the same time 
saying that to the best of his belief I was the first to bloom 
this most beautiful of creepers.—F rep. Watton, St. Cuthbert’s. 
“ Royal Exotic Nursery, King’s Road, Chelsea, S.W. 
“ 26th June, 1865. 

“T thank you very much for haying kindly sent me the blooms of 
Lonicera aureo-reticulata. The blooms add another charm to this 
really pretty climber. I think you may safely claim the credit of 
haying been the first to blossom it in this country.—James VEITCH.” 


Your correspondent of last week being desirous to know if 
this plant flowers in other localities than his own, and as the 
subject may be of a little interest to your readers generally, I 
enclose you a sprig which I have just taken from my garden, 
and which you will see, although only 4 inches long, has sixteen 
bloom-buds not far from being out. The Honeysuckle, which 
flowered most freely last year, was planted against an arch in 
the centre of my garden seven years since. The archis about 
8 feet high and 6 feet wide, and the plant reached the middle 
of it a year or two ago. It would most likely have gone farther 
but for meeting a Rose tree growing up the other side. I may 
add that the sprig 1 send was taken from the north side of the 
arch.—Brngamin Looxer, Kingston-on-Thames. 

(Mr. Pillar, gardener, Wiscombe Park, Devon, informs us 
that this Honeysuckle has bloomed there in each of the three 
last years, and is now covered with flowerbuds. Mr. D. Greig, 
gardener to the Harl of Bandon, Castle Bernard, Ireland, that 


it is now in flower against 2 south wall, and has so flowered for 
three years.—EDs. ] 


FORWARDING STRAWBERRIES, AND 
LAYERING FOR FORCING. 


Tue coldness of the weather will make Strawberries very 
late with us this season. To forward them a little I have had 
some sashes placed over a bank sloping to the south. Some 
15-inch pots were inverted at the back and front, and wooden 
rails were laid along from pot to pot, thus forming a back and 
front sill for the sashes to rest upon. Boards being placed 
upright from the ground to the rails at the back and front, and 
at the ends, a good temporary frame or pit is formed. Air is 
given by raising the sashes with a peg. 

The early ripening will greatly depend on taking all air away 
early, so as to shut in sun heat. In dull cold weather much 
time will not be gained by such means; but in bright sun the 
Strawberries will be from eight to twelve days earlier. 

I intended a lot of pot plants set with fruit, to ripen in the 
late orchard house, but in order to prevent any break, I think 
they must be removed at the beginning of the week into a 
pit where a little artificial heat can be given. Some of the 
fiyst-forced Keens’ Seedling turned out into the ground are 
now showing bloom a second time pretty generally, and will 
thus come in soon after the usual summer crops, and will be 
little behind such late kinds as the Elton, still a fine Straw- 
berry in its season, notwithstanding its acidity. 

As soon as possible runners must be layered for next season’s 
forcing. Where could time and labour now be found for cut- 
ting pegs for this purpose? Iam glad to geta small box of 
potsherds or small stones to place on the runners—nay, glad to 
be able to fix each in the pot with the thumb and finger, and 
leave it to look after itself, which even under such circumstances 
it generally does very well. Where there is netting, the runner 
is generally rendered all the more secure when a little stone is 
fixed firmly over it. 

It requires no argument to prove that it is advisable to take 
plant-runners as much as possible from fertile and productive 
plants. From experiments conducted carefully for a number 
of years, I came to the conclusion that the second plant on the 
runner, though not so vigorous as the first, was the most fruit- 
ful. This seemed perfectly in accordance with the great natural 
law, that the extreme of luxuriance in growth is opposed to the 
extreme of fertility. I know that some hold the opposite view, 
and prefer the first plant on the runner as the most vigorous 
and the most fruitful. I still hold the opinion expressed above, 
but the run of dry seasons, and haying no water to spare, have 
forced me to act on the practice of those who differ from me, 
and to be glad to take the first plant on the runner, or eyen 


any young plants at all, and I must say that these plants have 
turned out very well. The question still remains, however, 
and which of late years, as stated above, I have had no means 
of further testing, Would not the second plant on the runner 
be less Gistinguished for its free luxuriance and size of foliage, 
and be more marked for smallness of foliage and abundance 
and size of fruit? 

Next, with regard to the mode of treating the runner plant 
for forcing, I have tried many modes. I have taken off the 
runner just as it began to show the protuberance of roots, and, 
leaving 2 inches of the runner to help to fasten it, have pricked 
if out in rich soil in a bed, watered and syringed, and shaded 
until it was growing freely, and then raised the plants with 
little balls and potted them at once. ‘As some successful forcers 
do, I have taken to the beds 6-inch pots, well drained, filled 
with rich soil to the rim, fastened a runner in the centre 
of the pot, and cut its string when fairly established. The 
only objections which I know to this mode are two—first, the 
labour and time involved in carrying the pots and soil to the 
Strawberry beds and then back again; and secondly, watering 
such a number of large pots, especially if water is distant and 
scarce. Then, again, there is the tendency in such cases for 
the roots to quickly reach the sides of the pots, whilst much of 
the soil inside is slightly permeated by small fibres; whereas 
in such cases I do not think that the fibres can be too nu- 
merous or too thoroughly interlaced through the whole of the 
soil in the pot. Hence, I recommend all beginners to layer 
their runners in small pots (the size called 60’s), and when 
these are well filled with roots to cut the connecting runner, 
and move them at first for a few days to a shady place, watering 
them, then transferring the plants to larger pots without break- 
ing the ball, the outside and inside of which is laced with 
fibres. When the fibres then reach and cluster round the 
sides of the pot, it is quite certain that the centre of the ball 
is filled with fibres or feeding mouths. As to the size of the 
pots, I have used for small kinds, and those which I wished 
to mature early, in order to be forced early, what are called 
48 ana 40-sized pots. This season, though these did fairly, 
what are termed 32’s, about 6-inch pots, answered the best. 

Then, though stating what most likely will appear mere 
reiteration, still for the benefit of inquirers I may remark, that 
several things more are important in the way of preparing the 
planis for forcing. First, The soil should be somewhat rich 
and stiff, rather than sandy and light. Second, In potting, as 
the plant will sink a little, the bud should not be lower than 
the rim of the pot; and the soil round the sides cannot be 
packed too firmly, using a blunt spatula, or piece of wood, for 
the purpose. Thirdly, A little shade may be wanted at first, 
but full exposure to the sun as soon as possible, and the pots 
to be set on a hard bottom that the roots may be forced back 
on themselves instead of encouraged to pass out at the bottom 
of the pot. Any runners should be nipped off as they appear, 
and the pots should not stand so closely together as to prevent 
the sun and air acting freely on their buds. Fourthly, Water- 
ings and syringings of clear water may be used as needed, 
until the roots come pretty freely to the sides of the fruiting- 
pots, and then weak and diversified manure-waterings will be 


‘relished, no flagging ever being allowed. Lastly, As the short 


days and waning sun of autumn come, give no more water than 
is absolutely essential to keep the plants from being distressed, 
the ripening of the buds being then of more importance than 
mere growth. If it can be done, not only the pots but the 
plants should in winter be protected from heavy rains and 
severe frosts. When starting, the rise to about 60° should be 
gradual. These hints are chiefly for the benefit of beginners 
who wish for an outline of the course they had better follow. 
—R. F. 


NOTES ON ROSES. 


Ir is too early at present to describe the infants, as is desired 
by your correspondent ‘‘ Sprctator.” EHvyen some of the old- 
established Roses haye not bloomed yet in their character. 
Among the old Roses blooming abundantly and first-rate are 
Gloire de Dijon, Céline Forestier, Empereur de Maroc, Prince 
Camille de Rohan, Maurice Bernardin, Jules Margottin, the best- 
habited of all Roses; John Hopper, Felix Genero, and Marguerite 
de St. Amand. Others, as yet, have exhibited green centres and 
fimbriated edges. Madame Trifle (Tea), Louis Yan Houtte, 
Baron Chaurand, and one or two more, have died. I shall be 
able to describe in a short time the following :—Madame 
Chirard, Madame Creyton, Mdlle. Eugénie Verdier, Madame 


June 15, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


417 


Jacquier, Jules Chrétien, Nardy Fréres, Souvenir de Monsieur 
Poiteau, Marquise de Mortemart, Edouard Morren, Perfection 
de Lyon, Souvenir de Monsieur Boll, Dupuy-Jamin, Madame 
W. Paul (Moss Perpetual), Madame Alice Dureau, Paul 
Néron, Abbé Giraudier, Albion, Monplaisir (Tea), and Madame 
Levet. 

I have re-introduced Madame Guinoisseau (twelve plants), a 
Rose that never ought to have gone out, being equal in form and 
beauty to Madame Vidot and Madame Rivers; and I have also 
bought six plants of Triomphe de Caen, deep purple, which is 
coming into abundant bloom, and appears to be an acquisition. 
It has been ‘“ out” some years, but the savans—fast coaches— 
do not always find out the jewels. I shall know more about it 
in a few days, as every twig has a Rose onit. I think Perfec- 
tion de Lyon will be first-rate. I have had one first-class 
bloom of it, and the six plants have an abundance of buds to 
judge from. I do not much like judging from one plant or one 
bloom. I agree with my man ‘‘Steevie.” ‘Sir,’ said he, 
the other day, ‘‘ we cannot tell for certain what the Roses are 
till we have had them two or three years.” These cold nights 
and cutting north-east winds cause the first buds to bloom ab- 
aoe Pull off at once all defective and green-centred 

mds. 

Mr. Duddendge, foreman at the Dorset Nurseries, sent me 
for inspection some fine blooms of Catherine Mermet, Madame 
Hippolyte Jamain, and Réve d’Or. The last is a great beauty 
and of good form. It is a golden yellow, with a cupped cop- 
pery yellow centre. The following is his report of it—‘' Réve 
d@’Or is a moderately rapid climber and is covered with blos- 
soms; it does not make long unsightly shoots, but covers the 
wall as it grows. I think it isa fine variety. Itis particularly 
good in bud or half open.” —W. IF. Rapcuyrre. 


EARTHING-UP POTATOES. 


On this subject I am quite of ‘‘ WyesipzE’s” opinion. I never 
have my Potatoes earthed-up, as I am sure it greatly injures 
the fibres, and, therefore, weakens the crop. I always have an 
excellent crop; this year under a new system it is better than 
usual. I always have the ground dug two spits deep in the 
autumn, turning-in plenty of well-decomposed manure. 

The method which I have adopted this year is as follows :— 
With a broad hoe I draw trenches about 4 inches deep, I then 
dibble holes in the trenches and plant the Potatoes, thus 
leaving a ridge of earth between the rows. As soon as the tops 
are 4 or 5 inches high the ground is hoed, levelling-down the 
ridges and so affording support to the plants. With the ex- 
ception of hand-weeding nothing more is done, as I believe 
hoeing afterwards to be very injurious, for it disturbs the roots 
which are between the rows. 

This year I began to take up my Potatoes on May 27th, and 
I am well pleased with the crop, many of the tubers weighing 
a quarter of a pound. My neighbours, notwithstanding, go on 
earthing-up their Potatoes and destroying half their crop.— 
A. F. Gopwarp, Southend. 


I penieve that ‘‘ Wynstpe”’ has introduced a question which 
should be the subject of experiment by all Potato-growers. I 
am no advocate for earthing-up Potatoes, and I did not practise 
it during the several years I was-at Lillesden. I have fre- 
quently stated to several growers in that neighbourhood my 
reasons, which were in substance similar to those given by 
‘‘ WrusipE.” Advocates of the earthing system say that it 
increases the crop by causing the plant to put forth roots up 
the stem, and therefore young tubers. I could never find that 
the crop was either increased or improved by earthing-up. My 
experience goes so far as to prove that a grower of Potatoes 
places himself at a disadvantage by the earthing-up system, for 
by earthing he increases the vigour of the haulm, and of course 
prolongs the time of ripening, a thing to be avoided in these 
times of blight, &c. Again, every grower knows that the Po- 
tato has made and extended its roots over a large space of 
ground before the top is high enough to be earthed ; therefore 
itis impossible to perform the operation without injury ; neither 
can he crop his ground so closely, nor clean it so well, as when 
he does not earth up. There is no need of means to increase 
the vigour of the haulm of the Potato, for I have not yet grown 
any sort that does not produce an ample top-growth even in 
ordinary-stapled soils. 

I feel sure that the ground for Potatoes should be trenched, 
but not manured with farmyard manure; this should be given 


to some previous crop. Plant about 6 or 8 inches deep, and 
during growth frequently stir the surface soil, but disturb the 
roots as little as possible, and use every means to secure early- 
developed tubers, well ripened, and take up the crop ; the disease 
is then less likely to attack them. 

Many years ago, and when the Potato disease was less pre- 
valent, it was the custom to leave the Potato crop in the ground 
until November ; perhaps then a little earthing-up would be an 
advantage as a means of keeping them drier and safe from 
early autumn frosts, but even then the earthing should not be 
performed until after the crop is matured. I do not say that 
good crops of Potatoes are not grown by the earthing sysiem— 
quite as good as by the non-earthing plan—but I am quite 
convinced that under the circumstances in which Potatoes 
have now to be grown, earthing them up according to the long- 
existing custom does the crop no good whatever, and is labour 
in vain. 

As I do not earth-up Potatoes I grow my crops in rows 
18 or 20 inches from each other, and the sets 1 foot apart in 
the row—that is, for short-topped or early sorts ; but for coarse- 
growing later sorts, such as Paterson’s Victoria, I allow from 
20 to 24 inches between the rows without earthing, and have 
done so for several years with satisfactory crops. 

Again, as a proof of the fallacy of earthing-up Potatoes, we 
have only to observe the wonderful crops turned out of frames 
and pits where they have been growing 2% a distance of less 
than 1 foot apart, with only 2 or 3 inches of soil over the tubers. 
Nothing could be more generally satisfactory. I have been 
sending to table some Myatt’s Prolific so grown since the first 
week in April, and for size and finish, as well as flavour, they 
would come up to a summer-grown Potato.—TuHos. REcoRD. 


In the first place, I would say it is injurious to earth-up Po- 
tatoes at a wrong time. In my opinion the proper time to do 
so is when they are 2 or 3 inches high, not during an advanced 
stage of their growth. According to my experience, I never 
found earthing-up interfere with their growth, but on the con- 
trary increase it; nor can I gee that either the plough or the 
hoe, if properly used, would interfere with the roots at this 
stage; and even if the ground is dry when the operation is per- 
formed, it does not follow that it will always be so. Thero cer- 
tainly are exceptionally dry summers; but I can assure ‘‘ WYE- 
SIDE’ that there are certain soils which have come under my 
observation where he could not or dare not earth-up while they 
were in the dry state he mentions; and this is only another 
illustration of the truth, that what is right for one man may be 
wrong for another. 

Iam not prepared to prove that the yield is increased by 
earthing-up, although my experience tends to that conclusion, 
still I am prepared to prove that earthing-up certainly preserves 
the tubers in a better condition, also from the ravages of rooks. 
If these depredators are at all plentiful in ‘‘ WyEsipzE’s” 
locality, and if he grows early Potatoes ‘in considerable quan- 
tities, he will find out that it is absolutely necessary to earth 
well up. It may be all very well for the rooks that the tubers 
should be exposed, but I think it would be wrong for me to 
have to got up at 3 or 4 o’clock A.m., to scare and shoot them, 
or otherwise lose the best of my crop. I find the best tubers 
are nearly always near the surface. 

‘‘ Wyrsipr” apparently makes light of the greening, but I 
am mistaken if he will find it so. A few years ago I had about 
three acres of Potatoes that were not earthed-up, and I was 
mortified at having to waste so many fine tubers as unfit for use, 
especially as there were plenty of smaller ones not the least 
affected for sets; the greater part of the larger tubers were near 
the surface. 

Now, with respect to the yield, I quite concur with the Editors’ 
remarks, that earthing-up retards the ripening. About ten 
days or a fortnight ago I wanted a dish of early Potatoes. I 
went first to some Potatoes that had fine strong tops, but was 
disappointed to find tubers about the size of Peas. These had 
been earthed-up. From a few plants that had never been 
touched after they were planted, but had short tops half the 
sizo of the others, I obtained a beautiful dish about the size of 
pigeons’ or bantams’ eggs. Tho soil about these was hard and 
solid. All were planted atthe sametime. The plants with the 
large tops showed twice the number of tubers. This may not 
be a fair comparison, as both pieces were not on the same 
ground, but to me there does not appear to be any difference 
between the two, save in the hard texture of the one and open- 
ness of the other. I haye my own views about the reason why 


418 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ June 15, 1871. 


there is such a difference, but I would prefer first to know if 
others have had a similar experience.—A Yorxy. 


PLANTS SUITABLE FOR TABLE DECORATION. 
JECHMEA FULGENS. 

Anone the many varieties of plants suitable for dinner-table 
decoration the Dracena as a fine-foliaged plant is worthy to 
stand first; and out of a great number of flowering plants 
which I have tried, none have been more pleasing than ichmea 
fulgens. Its rich green foliage and handsome form make it 
attractive when in its growing state, but when graced with its 
spike of coral-like flowers it cannot but be admired by all who 
see it. If you have an old plant by you it will be very little 
trouble to increase the stock; if not, in making a purchase it 
is best to get two plants, no matter how small, so long as they 
are rooted and are both the same size. If they have not filled 
their pots with roots allow them to remain in them until they 
have, but at the same time be careful not to let them get pot- 
bound; then shift them into the size of pots you use on the 
dinner table—4 or 5-inch are large enough, and are the size I 
use myself, but a size larger will do them no harm. The soil 
should be two parts peat, one part fibrous loam, one part tho- 
roughly rolted cow dung, with a good sprinkling of silver sand. 
Let this be well mixed together, but not rubbed, as the soil 
ought to be in pieces about the size of Spanish nuts. It is a 
good plan to water the young plants thoroughly, if they are 
dry, about an hour before you shift them into larger pots, and 
then after they are potted let them stand two or three days 
iefore you water again ; and if it is winter time they may stand 
a week or ten days before they require water. The pots should 
either be new or washed clean und well dried, as no plants 
thrive well in dirty pots. If the pots are new they should be 
dipped in water, as pots fresh from the potteries, if not wetted 
and allowed to dry, slightly slack when the plant is watered for 
the first time, and this is not good for the roots. The plants 
will now require very litile water, except what they get by 
syringing. I have sometimes let them stand all winter with- 
out giving water more than once or twice; but as soon as the 
plant begins to show its flower-stem, it will require water when- 
ever the soil gets dry; if not, the flower will be small. The 
plant should occasionally be inverted, to let out the water which 
is sure to lodge in its heart when the syringe is used. This 
should be done by placing the neck of the plant hetween the 
fingers, with the rim of the pot resting on the hand: by this 
means you will prevent the soil from falling out of the pot. 

About the time the plant is in full flower, young shoots will 
make their appearance at the neck of the plant, and when these 
have grown to about 5 or 6 inches long, they may be cut off 
close to the parent with a sharp knife, and placed in the middle 
of a thumb-pot, using a mixture of peat, leaf mould, and silver 
sand, in equal parts, and they will very soon root and make 
nice young plants, which can be shifted as soon as they have 
filled their pots with roots, using the soil described above. 
When the old plants have done their best, they may be thrown 
away to make room for young ones; or if a number of young 
ones are wanted, they may be cut down, and they will soon 
send up three or four suckers, which may be parted with roots 
to them; or cut off and struck, whichever is preferred. The 
cuttings will strike in the stove or in a warm dung frame. 

Ti is a good plan to take three or four cuttings whenever you 
can get them, as then you will have plants in flower at different 
times of the year. Last year I had plants in flower from the 
last week of July until the last week in December. They came 
into flower in succession, at intervals of about a fortnight. 
And now some cuttings that were struck in May will, I have no 
doubt, flower by April; and some more that were struck in 
September have grown considerably, and will most likely flower 
by May or June; and plants struck in February and March 
will flower in the following August and September. So by 
taking a few cuttings all the year round, you may be sure of 
plants fit for table decoration almost whenever they may be 
required. And should they not be required for table decoration, 
their beauty, and the length of time they flower, will amply 
repay the trouble.—Wiu1Am Noxss, Blake Hall, Ongar, Essex. 
—(in The Gardener.) 


Heavy Pracu Crors.—The large Peach shipments of 161,968 
packages of Peaches from St. Joseph, Michigan, during the 
season of 1870, have been quoted by Western papers, and also 
some foreign ones, as the ‘ largest known to the present gene- 


ration.” We must give better credit to little Delaware, by 
saying that from one station alone, on a railroad 175 miles 
long, there were shipped from Middletown, Delaware, last year, 
175,000 baskets and packages of Peaches, and from the town of 
Dover there were shipped, both by railroad and steamer, the 
enormous amount of 460,000 baskets. The produce of the entire 
peninsula of Maryland and Delaware was 3,000,000 baskets, and 
the value nett to the growers about 1,200,000 dols.! Is there 
any other section of the world that can make as favourable an 
exhibit as this ?—(Horticulturist.) 


STRAWBERRY PROSPECTS. 


I HAVE read very interesting remarks on this subject during 
the last few weeks, and the writers seem desirous of informa- 
tion from others interested in the cultivation of the Strawberry. 
When I read the remarks of ‘‘ R. F.” I felt a little anxiety for 
the time being, but that gradually wore away. 

I have had heavy crops of Strawberries during the last 
fifteen years, but last year the produce was not quite so heavy 
as in previous seasons, still I had plenty for my employer’s 
use and some to spare. All my beds at present are very pro- 
mising. We have three plantations; I destroy the oldest 
plantation every year, and I make a new one of the same size. 
The varieties which I cultivate are all old proved kinds—yiz., 
Black Prince, Keens’ Seedling, Myatt’s Queen, Alice Maude, 
Sir Charles Napier, British Queen, Admiral Dundas, and Sir 
Harry. The last-named variety is a very heavy cropper with 
me. I have frequently gathered fruit as large as a pigeon’s 
egg from plants bearing heavy crops as well. 

Previous to making a new Strawberry plantation I dig deeply 
and use plenty of rotten leaves and manure, equal parts of 
each, and I frequently give a surface-dressing of soot or lime, 
just as I may happen to have it at hand. The first runners 
which I can obtain I take up carefully with a trowel from be- 
tween the rows of the Strawberry plants, and I am particularly 
careful to have the young plants lifted with all the roots and 
the soil that adheres to them, with as little disturbance as is 
possible while removing them to the new plantation. As the 
planting is carried on I give each plant a thorough soaking of 
water, and should the weather continue dry after planting I 
water for a few evenings to give the new plantation a good 
start. After the plants are fairly established in their new 
quarters I give no more water, even if the season be as dry as 
that of 1870. I never water fruiting plants. 

From November to March I give all my beds, young and old, 
a good dressing of dung and leaves, and dig it in about 2 inches 
deep. As soon as the flower-stems are perceptible I lay just 
enough fresh stable litter round each plant to keep the fruit 
clean. The litter, being laid on early, sweetens before the 
fruit ripens, and at the same time prevents so much evapora- 
tion as would take place were the litter used at a later period. 
—Monmovra. 


MIGNONETTE CULTURE. 


[Tue following is in answer to several inquirers who wish to 
grow Mignonette for exhibition. ] 

Sow two seeds in a 3-inch pot, placing them about half an 
inch apart, and cover them with fine soil about one-eighth of 
an inch deep. The soil should consist of light fibrous loam 
two parts, and one part of leaf soil, with half a part of silver 
sand, and the same proportion of charcoal not larger than a 
pea, the whole well mixed. Water gently, and place the pots 
in a hotbed of about 70°, shading until the seedlings appear, 
and then remove the shading, and elevate the pots so that the 
plants may not be nearer the glass than 3 inches, nor farther 
than 6 inches from it. Keep the soil just moist, sprinkle over- 
head every afternoon about 4 p.a., and close the frame, for I 
presume it is convenient to have them in such for a time, and 
when the plants are an inch high remove them to a cold frame, 
setting them on inverted flower pots, so as to bring them about 
6 inches from the glass, calculating from the tops of the plants. 
The lights should be drawn down about 6 inches by 7 a.m. in 
clear weather; at 4 p.u. water, if required, and sprinkle over- 
head, shutting up for the day. If the weather is cloudy and 
showery draw off the lights altogether, and employ them only 
in case of very heavy rains, and then tilted at the back and 
front so as to admit abundance of air. 

When the roots are slightly matted round the sides of the 
| pets shift into 43-inch pots, not placing the plants deeper in 

the soil at this nor any subsequent potting than they were at 


June 15, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


4 


419 


first. The soil at this potting may consist of light loam from 
turves not more than 14 inch thick laid up for six months, or, 
failing such, fresh turf willdo. If itis fresh, place itin an oven 
for half an hour, turning it over once, so as to get rid of wire- 
worms and other vermin. It should be a good, rich, light loam. 
Of that two parts chopped up in pieces about half an inch 
square, brown sandy peat one part, old cow dung, served the 
same as the loam to get rid of grubs, one part (old dry hot- 
bed manure will do), one part charcoal, in pieces from the size 
of a pea to that of a hazel nut, and one part silver sand, the 
whole well mixed and incorporated. Drain the pots well, but 
not excessively, and place about half an inch deep of half- 
inch bones over the crocks. This will suit the plants in all 
after-pottings. Make choice of the best plant—the strongest, 
most sturdy, and close-jointed, cut away the others when they 
are about 2 inches high, pot in from 4}-inch to 7-inch pots 
when the roots reach the sides of the pots, and continue the 
aprinklings overhead every evening, and at this stage early 
in the morning as well. The watering should be moderate, 
not giving any water until the soil is dry, but a good supply 
before the leaves flag. In the case of the plants, from growing, 
getting too close to the glass, withdraw the pots they are set 
on, and place them on coal ashes, rough rather than fine, and 
when they grow too tall for the frame raise the frame by means 
of bricks under the corners, and this will admit plenty of air 
without withdrawing the lights in showery weather. In very 
bright hot weather keep on the lights and afford a slight shade 
from bright sun. 

The last shift should be given as soon as the roots reach the 
sides of the 7-inch pots, shifting the plants into those 9 inches 
in diameter, and give this time about an inch of half-inch 
bones. The plants should have the first flower-spike pinched 
out as soon as it appears, and a neat stick put in to keep it 
erect. Train up a shoot as leader, and do not stop the side 
shoots until they show flower, and then take out the bloom 
wherever it appears until a month before the time at which 
you wish to have it in flower. The side shoots may be tied out, 
or rather down, and brought in the direction of vacancies, so 
as to form a close symmetrical plant well furnished to the 
pot. About a fortnight after the last potting liquid manure 
may be given twice a-week, but it must not be strong. A peck 
of sheep’s droppings to thirty gallons of water well stirred up 
before use is the best we know. The tyings should be done 
neatly, and with thread, using no stick except for the central 
shoot or main stem. In tying, be careful not to break the 
shoots. To bring the shoots down you will need to place a wire 
or string beneath the rim of the pot, which, with the strings 
used for a time to give the side shoots the required direction, 
may be removed when that is effected.—G. A. 


LOXFORD HALL, 
THE RESIDENCE OF F. WHITBOURN, ESQ. 

I orren have the pleasure of meeting Mr. Douglas at the 
various exhibitions, and have a wholesome dread of him when 
@ see that he is a competitor, for he is one of those gardeners 
who do nothing by halves; he is so thoroughly up to the mark 
in all departments, that you may be pretty sure, if you enter 
the lists with him, to come off with some broken bones. Waien, 
therefore, in answer to his oft-repeated wish I went down to 
see the garden he superintends, I was quite sure that I should 
see things well done, and I was in truth amply repaid. 

Loxford Hallis not, as perhaps one might be led from its 
mame (a name not given by its present owner) to suppose, a 
lordly mansion, standing in the midst of a grand park and 
surrounded by allthe et-ceteras that ‘‘ Haglish luxuriousness,” 
(according to General Trochu), can supply. No, it is a plain 
simple villa near Ilford, Essex, standing in the midst of a good 
acreage of farm, and by the great multitude of people would be 
passed by as not haying any features of peculiar interest; but 
to anyone instructed in horticulture you have only to pass into 
the garden, and you at once see the marks of a master hand. 
‘The garden owes all its value to the contents and not to the 
surroundings. Itis perfectly level, and was a few years ago 
simply a piece of meadow. The houses, which are numerous, 
were not built on any special plan, and were run up at different 
times, so that there is no continuity, and there is consequently 
meed of more care and attention on the part of the gardener 
than where a one-boiler system and long range of houses exist. 

In fruit Mr. Douglas has long taken a foremost place, and 
the vineries showed evidence of the successful treatment that 
Shas enabled Mr. Douglas to take such a prominent place. There 


were splendid bunches of 4 and 5 lbs. weight of Black Ham- 
burghs; then there were Royal Ascot, Golden Champion, Mrs. 
Pince, Barbarossa, and many others, and a seedling which I 
think is likely to prove a valuable variety, a cross between 
Buckland Sweetwater and a Frontignan, a cross-breed having 
the large berries of the one parent and a very decided Frontig- 
nan flavour. We shall hear more of this Grape, Iam persuaded, 
by-and-by. In another house in the kitchen garden there is 
a Muscat of Alexandria which is somewhat remarkable. It 
was on a wall outside and was brought into the house, and the 
space in which its roots can travel is very circumscribed, yet 
it had some magnificent bunches and always does well. 

Mr. Rivers might quote Mr. Douglas as a successful champion 
of orchard-house culture. The house has hot-water pipes in 
it, and can thus at the critical period have the extra heat which 
is often needed to set the fruit, the point in which I have ever 
felt the unheated orchard house was defective. Nothing could 
exceed the healthy appearance of the trees, while a plentiful 
crop of Peaches and Nectarines showed that there was profit as 
well as beauty. All around shelves near the glass were filled 
with Strawberries in pots, and here the fragrant perfume clearly 
indicated how well they were cared for. Various kinds were 
used for this purpose, and among them one of M. Souchet’s 
which I had not before seen. There were besides La Con- 
stante and President Wilder of De Jonghe, Cockscomb, Dr. 
Hogg, and President, and in all cases the fruit was well grown 
and colouring well; and whatever may be the habit of La Con- 
stante out of doors there is no doubt, from what I saw here, 
that it is well suited for pot culture. 

In the flower garden Mr. Douglas has managed to combine 
the requirements of a home like this with the love of a florist. 
While he grows Azaleas, Pelargoniums, Orchids, stove and green- 
house plants, and grows them well, he also grows the Gladiolus 
and Chrysanthemum, and his flowers of both have taken pro- 
minent places on the exhibition table. Iquake when I see him 
putting up his stands of Gladioli, and I am sure, from what I 
saw of his Chrysanthemums at Kensington last autumn, exhi- 
bitors of that flower must do the same. His Gladioli looked. 
well, and he has a large number of seedlings from carefully 
fertilised flowers, which ought to produce something. It will be 
recollected by some that he exhibited last year a very fine seed- 
ling for which he gained a first-class certificate, and which went 
into Megsrs. Standish’s hands. Most of his Chrysanthemums 
were grown for single stems, and by this means he obtains some 
very fine flowers, few in number of necessity, but very fine in 
quality. There were also here some of the very finest plants of 
Lilium auratum that I have anywhere seen, stems producing 
twenty and thirty blooms a-piece, and some eight to ten of these 
ina pot. Mr. Douglas has detailed his mode of culture in ToE 
JourNnat or Horricunture, and I need only add that he grows 
them mainly in Wanstead loam, and plunges them out of doors 
during the winter, and thus obtains hardy well-constitutioned 
plants. These large pots contain the produce of a single bulb, 
the bulbs being simply pushed away from each other so as to 
partly separate them. 

In vegetables, too, Mr. Douglas has shown himself an able 
cultivator, the seedling Cucumber he exhibited last month being 
a very fine variety; while a walk through the kitchen garden, 
where he has Peas, Potatoes, and other vegetables on trial, will 
show much that anyone interested in this most useful part of 
the garden will be pleased with. He has often told me that he 
cannot grow the Lapstone Potato, but I very much question 
from what I saw whether he has it true. 

T have said nothing of the bedding-out and other more ordi- 
nary matters, but simply have noticed those points which 
struck me most. Mr: Douglas has some difficulties to contend 
with, but he has one great advantage in having in Mr. Whit- 


‘bourn a kind and considerate employer, who, believing that a 


man whose profession it is to be a gardener must know what 
is best to be done, is willing to trust him. Surely if there 
were more of this feeling there would not be so many complaints, 
and for both the employer and employed there would be great 
advantages.—D., Deal. 


PRESERVING WALKS FROM WEEDS. 


To aid your correspondent ‘‘IpEm” to prevent weeds from 
growing on his paths, allow me to suggest spent lime from the 
gas house as very suitable in his case. Itis put on the last 
coat of stones just before the gravel, and is merely shovelled 
on to the stones and spread evenly over. For a path 3 or 
4 feet wide, about 3 inches in thickness would be sufficient. 


420 


It is not an absolute preventive, but our paths have been made 7 


seven or eight years, and have required up to the present time 
very little weeding. I do not recollect what I paid for the 
Iime—a merely nominal sum, if anything. If I were going to 
make new paths I would not omit the gas lime on any account. 
—AMATEUR, Cirencester. 


ROYAL BOTANIC SOCIETY'S SHOW. 


Jusz 14TH anp 15TH. 

Tue second great Show of this Society opened yesterday and will 
close this day. Like its predecessor at Kensington it is fairly good, 
but presents no remarkable points of interest. Are exhibitors becom- 
ing tired of the great frequency of shows? We have not heard any 
outcries, but results would lead to the belief that such is the case. 

In the floral department Messrs. Lee, of Hammersmith, have a very 
effective mixed group, and others come from Messrs. Carter & Co., 
and Messrs. Rollisson, of Tooting. 

In Stove and Greenhouse Plants Mr. Baines, as usual, takes the 
highest place, being first both for nine and six, exhibiting, among 
others, large and superbly grown specimens of Hedaroma tulipifera, 
Erica Cavendishii, Erica ventricosa minor, Anthurium Scherzerianum, 
together with fine examples of Boronia pinnata and the charming 
bright-coloured Dipladenia amabilis. Mr. Ward comes second for 
nine, and Mr. J. Wheeler third, and second for six, Mr. Carr being 
third in the latterclass. In the nurserymen’s class Messrs. Jackson, 
of Kingston, and Mr. Morse, of Epsom, each exhibited. 

Orchids are but few; by far the best come from Mr. Williams, of 
Holloway, who has magnificent examples of Cattleya lobata and Cypri- 
pedium caudatum, Aérides affine with ten racemes, Cypripedium bar- 
batum, and Saccolabium retusum. Mr. Bull, who is second in the 
nurserymen’s class, has the new and pretty Thunia Bensoniz, Odon- 
toglossum citrosmum, Vanda tricolor, and Lelia purpurata. Among 
amateurs the awards go to Mr. Ward and Mr. J. Wheeler for nine; 
and to Mr. Burnett and Mr. Hill for six. 

For Show Pelargoniams Mr. Ward, gardener to F. G. Wilkins, Esq., 
Leyton, is a long way first with truly magnificent specimens, some of 
which were quite 4 feet across, and all of them in splendid bloom. 
The kinds are—Fair Rosamond, Selina, Conqueror, Rose Celestial, 
Patroness, Lilacina, Mary Hoyle, Conflagration, and Desdemona. 
Mr. Weir, gardener to Mrs. Hodgson, Hampstead, is second ; and Mr. 
James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., Isleworth, third. In the 
nurserymen’s cJass Messrs. Dobson are the only exhibitors. 

In Fancy Pelargoniums Mr. Weir sends a fine plant of Miss-in-her- 
Teens, and Liberty and Multiflora good; while in the nurserymen’s 
class Messrs. Dobson have good plants of Marionette, Lucy, &c. For 
twenty distinct kinds the prizes go respectively to Mr. Turner, of 
Slough, and Messrs. Dobson, the former haying many very fine 
varieties. 

Of Tricolor Pelargoniums excellent plants are shown by Mr. Stevens, 
of Ealing, Mr. Turner, of Slough, and Messrs. E. G. Henderson & Co. 

Roses in pots from Messrs. Paul & Son include large specimens, in 
beautiful bloom, of Paul Perras, Maréchal Vaillant, Lelia, and Charles 
Lawson. The same firm also exhibit a mixed collections of standards 
and dwarfs, and a fine miscellaneous group. 

Of fine-foliaged plants, Mr. Baines has Gleichenia rupestris, large 
and in beautiful condition; Theophrasta imperialis, a magnificent 
Pheenicophorium sechellarum, Sarracenia flava, very fine; and Dasy- 
lirion acrotrichum. Mr. Baines took the first prize; the second went 
to Mr. Taylor, gardener to Mrs. Yates, Highgate, who has a fine speci- 
men of Encephalartos latifrons. Mr. Burley, Bayswater, came in 
third. Mr. Cole, gardener to S. Budgett, Esq., Ealing Park, has also 
excellent plants, and two fine examples of Lomaria gibba shown 
before. Mr. Williams has three noble examples of Chamerops 
humilis, Latania borbonica, and Areca lutescens, taking the first prize 
for three Palms, and Mr. Burley is second. 

Among cut flowers the Roses are the majority. Maréchal Niel, 
from Mr. Keynes, of Salisbury, and R. Webb, Esq., Calcot, is in 
splendid condition, and the same variety from Mr. Mitchell, Piltdown, 
large and of exquisite freshness and colour. Mr. Keynes also sends 
beautiful blooms of Climbing Devoniensis, and Mr. Webb a stand of 
the seldom-shown Persian Yellow. Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Keynes, Mr. 
Chard, and others, have fine stands of different varieties. 

The following first-class certificates were given for new plants—viz., 
to Messrs. Veitch, Chelsea, for Begonia intermedia, Dracena amabilis, 
D. Wisemannii, Dieffenbachia Bausei, Selaginella sp. Japan, Panl- 
linia thalictrifolia, and Linum campanulatum; to Mr. Williams for 
Adiantum asarifolium, Restrepia antennifera, and Agaye Ortgiesiana ; 
to Mr. Bull for Phormium tenax albo-variegatum, Ptychosperma re- 
gale, Cycas elegans, Thrinax elegantissima, Macrozamia Fraseri, and 
Warscewiczella velata ; to Mr. Parker for Tacsonia Buchanani; and 
to Messrs. Paul & Son for Cupressus Langsoniana alba pendula. 

Certificates were given to the following Pelargoniums—to Mr. Nye 


for The Bride and Rubens; to Messrs. E. G. Henderson for Zonals 


Alice Mande Mary and Bronze Queen; to Mr. George for Polly King, 
Flame, and Caven Fox; to Mr. William Paul for Sir C. Napier, 
Tanthe, Lady D. Nevill, Comtesse de Flandre, and Wellington. 

Frourr.—The show of fruit even for this time of year is small—a 
circumstance the more to be regretted as we haye so few shows near 
London at which fruit takes a prominent part. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ J une 15, 1871. 


Of Pine Apples there were only four, Mr. Ward, gardener to T. N- 
Miller, Esq., Bishop Stortford, showing a spiendid Queen of 5} lbs. ; 
Mr. Benham, gardener to H. Woods, Esq., M.P., one of 5 Ibs., also 
remarkably fine; and Mr. Godfrey, gardener to J. Anderson, Esq., 
Ankerwycke, Staines, a heavy and well-ripened fruit, rather large in 
the crown. The prizes went to the exhibitors in the order in which 
they arenamed. The only exhibitor in the class for any other variety 
is Mr. Ward, who has a Blood Pine of 4 lbs. finely coloured. For 
this a first prize was given. 

Green-fleshed Melons consist of Wilson’s Hybrid, Hybrid Cashmere, 
Emperor of the West, Sultan, and Champion. In scarlet-fleshed, Gem 
is the kind principally shown. Mr. Ward is first in beth classes. 

Of Grapes, excellent baskets of Black Hamburgh are shown by Mr. 
Osborne, Kaye’s Nursery, Finchley, and Mr. Hick, gardener to C. 
Scholfield, Esq. Muscat of Alexandria, exceedingly good and fairly 
ripened, from Mr. Davis, Fryern Barnet, took the second prize, Mr. 
Osborne and Mr. Hick being respectively first and third. For Black 
Hamburgh Mr. Benham vas first with large bunches, Mr. Excell being 
second with well-finished bunches of ordinary size. Mr. Dayis, 
Fryern Barnet, and Mr. Lane, gardener to J. Miles, Esq., are third 
and fourth. Very good examples of Black Prince come from Messrs. 
Benham, Hick, and Ritchie. Three beautifully ripened bunches of 
Buckland Sweetwater are first in the class for white Grapes. These 
come from Mr. Reid, gardener to L. Huth, Esq., Possingworth, 
Sussex. Mr. Pizzey, gardener to Sir E. Perry, is second with Royal 
Muscadine, and Mr. Davis third with fine bunches of Muscat of Alex- 
andria tolerably ripe. 

The best two dishes of Peaches come from Mr. Browne, gardener to 
Earl Howe, Gopsall, being large and splendidly coloured fruit of Grosse 
Mignonne, and Royal George, also very fine. Mr. Osborne is second 
with the same kinds, also very fine; and Mr. Davis third with Violette 
Hative and Grosse Mignonne. In Nectarines Mr. Browne again 
takes the lead with Elruge, very fine, highly coloured, and Hunt's. 
Tawny. Mr. Holder, gardener to W. Childs, Esq., Keymer, is second 
with good fruit of Roman and Brugnon; Mr. Wright third with 
Elruge and Violette Hative. 

Strawberries are few, and altogether inferior, the first-prize single 
dish of Sir Charles Napier from Mr. Chard being the best. 

In the miscellaneous class Mr. Turner exhibits fruit of Frogmore 
Early Bigarreau from the open wall; Mr. Reid, Brown Turkey Figs 
and Physalis edulis, the latter pretty to look at, but to be partaken of 
cautiously by dyspeptics. Sooly-qua Cucumber, 4 feet 4 inches long, 
comes from Mr. Godfrey. 


I WILL TRY. 


Ir our cottagers generally would only adopt this maxim, how 
very different many of their roadside dwellings would be in 
their outward appearances. 

I lately visited a poor man’s cottage where I had been de- 
lighted to see its windows filled with nicely-bloomed plants of 
easy culture and little expense. Opposite this cottage there is 
a wall 7 feet in height, and 2 perches in length. Against this 
wall are growing five plants which would do credit to any gar- 
dener ; the wall is gradually being covered by these five plants. 
The first is Pyrus japonica in good style; the second is Baronne 
Prévost Rose blooming profusely; the third is Gloire de Dijon 
with seventy-three blooms, most of them of the largest size I 
have ever seen; the fourth is Charles Lawson, and a good com- 
petitor in size and number. The fifth is a Cotoneaster nicely 
trained, as all are, in the fan-form. The Gloire de Dijon Rose 
has been very much admired, and my experience of it has led 
me to believe it to be one of the best Roses in cultivation, but 
with a slight exception as toits colour. It strikes easily from 
cuttings, and its fine foliage is almost evergreen. Moreover, 
it requires but little knifing as a wall or pillar Rose. 

It is to be regretted that gentlemen and their gardeners do 
not lend a more helping hand to the cottagers in their respective 
neighbourhoods. A very few plants of easy cultivation would 
adorn the poor man’s cottage and delight its inmates. The 
expense of such aid would be but little, and in some eases 
nothing, and there would be but little trouble to the gardeners 
to rear a few plants, &c., for each cottage. If such induce- 
ments were offered to the cottager class, and more horticultural 
information given them, there would not be so many dead 
walls and unsightly windows to be seen in numerous otherwise 
nice cottages.—A. Law LER. 


FRUIT GROWING COMMERCIALLY. 

[THe following is from a paper by Mr. John Robson, Linton 
Park Gardens, read at the meeting of the Maidstone Farmers’ 
Club on April 20th. j 

Ir is not without some reluctance that I now address myself 
to a subject, the nature and details of which must be so well 
known to many that are present, that I fear much that I haye 


June 15, 1871. ] 


to say will appear only what is the everyday practice of the 
neighbourhood: yet I am in hopes some of the views I may 
have an opportunity of putting forth may contain something 
that is not goneraily understood, and, perhaps, some of the 
ideas may have the claim to originality; at the same time I 
must, at the onset, disclaim all merit that way, but merely the 
privilege of narrating such facts and opinions as I have come 
in contact with in witnessing the cultivation of the class of 
objects which forms the subject of this evening’s discussion, 
which, I may here remark, is not confined to the county of 
Kent. At the same time it must be fully understood that in 
accordance with suggestions, the paper is expressly written 
with a view to place the cultivation of fruit for market pur- 
poses in its true and proper light, so as to expect a fair and 
reasonable profit on the outlay incurred. I deem it right to 
mention this, because in the remarks that will be made it may 
be thought that I have omitted many requirements that tend 
to a successful issue, but where a crop has to be bought before 
it is produced, as too often has been the case where a too-ex- 
travagant expenditure has been first of all incurred, it is need- 
tess to say that disappointment is the result. Under these 
circumstances, we will suppose that the subject of growing 
hardy fruits to supply the metropolitan and other markets is 
under discussion, and that only such prices as are realised 
there in an ordinary way are expected. Let us see how this 
is {0 be accomplished, bearing in mind the competition that 
already exists in the trade, both at homeand with the foreigner; 
the consignments from the latter, especially, being a matter so 
difficult to caleulate upon, that we dismiss it here, but may 
revert to if again in the course of this paper. 

Assuming, therefore, that the cultivation of the ordinary 
hardy fruits that are grown in large quantities to be the sub- 
ject in hand, it may perhaps not be known to all present that 
these fruits (with the exception of Cherries, perhaps), are all 
British fruit, properly speaking—that is, they are the offspring 
of fruits found wild in this country; the Crab, Bullace Plum, 
and @ coarse representative of 2 Damson are common enough, 
but the Black and Red Currant, as well as the Gooseberry, are 
more sparingly met with; and when they are, it is often ap- 
parent they have been outcasts from some garden; yet I have 
found a wild Gooseberry and Red Currant a long distance from 
any dwelling-house or cultivated garden in Yorkshire, which I 
think might be truly called wild, the fruit also being of a very in- 
ferior kind, so that it is possible they might claim a home there 
as well as the Bramble and Hawthorn. But I will not pursue 
this subject further than to say that the Black and Red Currant 
so found in a wild state were not both together, the former 
occupying a much moister site than the latter. This significant 
fact I would like especially to call your attention to, as it may 
be adverted to when the cultivation of these fruits for com- 
mercial purposes comes to be dwelt upon. The conditions under 
which thelother fruits are found whenina wild state are too well 
known to require comment here, and for that of one of them, 
Pears, I am far from certain where to look, although in its normal 
state the Pear is unquestionably found in many places ; but we 
need not inquire further into that at present. If we inquire 
into the history of most of these fruits, we shall find that, 
although they are originally natives of this country, we have at 
various times been indebted to the cultivators of the continent 
for the improved varieties furnished to this country, Flanders 
standing pre-eminent for its fruit culture in the middle or dark 
ages, and who can say but that the industrious artisans driven 
out of that country by religious persecution in the fourteenth 
the fifteenth centuries, did not bring with them their Apple, 
Pear, and Cherry trees, and finding a home in this country 
equally adapted for these trees ag for themselves, both became 
located here? Be this as it may, certain it is that many valu- 
able additions to our orchards were obtained from that country, 
and possibly others from North-western France, during the 
many years these provinces formed a part of, or were claimed 
by, the sovereigns of this country as part of their dominions. 
Cider is said to have formed an important Saxon drink at a still 
earlier age, and I think there is a story of one of the Roman 
Pontiffs’ good offices being secured by a present of some pre- 
served fruits of English growth and preparation; showing that 
some progress in the art of confectionery had also been made 
at that early period. These luxuries, no doubt, were intro- 
duced through the many institutions of the monkish order by 
which the country was studded ; where, likewise, other arts had 
their origin, or, at all events, were nurtured. ‘There is also 
ample history to prove that the cultivation of fruit trees was 
one of the useful lessons transmitted to us by these austere 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


421 


brethren, and as many of the religious establishments of the 
dark ages were placed on low situations, surrounded more or 
less by the almost universal forest, we have a proof that shelter 
was one of the items of good cultivation that was easily obtained 
at that day, and one not to be despised at the present. 

Another problem which there seems to be difficulty in solving 
is—Were the seasons at that time different to what they are 
now? The fact (if we may regard itas afact) of Grapes ripen- 
ing in the open air sufficiently well to make wine, would imply 
the summers at that time to be hotter than they are now. We 
must not confound the mode in which home-made wines are 
made in these days with that of the ancients, who, we expect, 
adopted the continental plan of making that drink from the 
fruit alone, while in the present century we are content, or 
obliged, to make ours from sugar flavoured with the fruit, to 
which we give it a name, while it is needless to say sugar in 
its present shape was not obtainable then. We will not, how- 
ever, follow this subject further, except to suggest that it is 
possible the much greater breadth of land occupied with forest 
may have had something to do in rendering the parts that were 
cleared and cultivated more warm in summer than the gene- 
rality of the country is now, as it seems to be an acknowledged 
fact that the destruction of the great American forests exercises 
considerable influence on the climate, and it is possible a like 
resuit took place here in the early history of this country, and 
this, naturally enough, opens another subject of inquiry not 
altogether foreign to the one we set out upon, as its bearing 
may perhaps exercise considerable influence on the matter of 
fruit-growing, and that is—Does not the destruction of timber 
and coppice plantation tend in some degree to alter the climate 
of this country, even at the present day? I expect to be told 
it does not, but I am not sure of this. The presence of trees is 
of more importance than many people are aware of. In some 
countries, especially tropical ones, their presence insures rain 
more or less at some time or other: hence the anxiety of the 
well-wishers of the Egyptian canal to clothe the banks of that 
gigantic undertaking with trees, so as to attract the clouds and 
obtain rain to cover the parched ground with some kind of 
herbage or other. It may, perhaps, be said that rain is not 
wanted by fruit trees in this country, but the dry summer of 
1868 altered many opinions on this matter, and the idea that 
even Hops were better without rain than withit received a con- 
vincing proof to the contrary that year. It is quite possible 
the dry summers we have frequently had of late years may 
have been less favourable to the growth of good crops of fruit 
than was the case in former years. In saying this I must not 
be understood as being favourable to a showery, or rathera dull 
wet summer. On the contrary, a dry autumn seems almost 
indispensable to ensure a good fruit season the ensuing year; 
but I still believe that nice, copious rains in the early summer 
months tend to fruitfulness, as, for instance, the summers of 
1847 and 1865, both favourable years, while in this last-named 
year more rain fell, even in the summer months, than in 1860, 
but the warm atmosphere rendered it highly serviceable as a 
fertilising agent, and most things did well that year. 

The latter divergence from what was intended as an intro- 
duction to hardy fruit cultivation will be excused when the 
bearing it has on the subject in hand is taken into considera- 
tion, but as a too-lengthened paper is not wanted, we must 
omit the more modern history of fruit-growing, and go at 
once into that of its cultivation; not as an amateur who may 
be desirous of obtaining a small quantity of choice fruit, 
regardless of cost, but a8 an ordinary occupier of a farm who 
wishes to grow the greatest possible quantity of fruit of fair 
average quality at the least possible expense, so as to ensure in 
the long run a fair and proper remuneration for the expense 
incurred, including rent and other charges for the land, and 
due interest for the capital embarked in the enterprise. These 
matters must be perfectly understood by many here better than 
by me, and that being so I will not assume to put the cost of 
preparing an acre of land for fruit-plantation purposes into. 
figures, but will content myself with such general observations 
a3 may, perhaps, help those contemplating going into fruit- 
growing from committing an error, especially if they have not 
had much experience that way, but to those who have made 
fruit-growing their study in lifeit is no easy matter to im- 
part information; I need not waste further time in useless 
apologies, but commence at once with the culture of the most 
popular of our out-door fruits, and one that in some form or 
other is to be had the greater part of the year. 

Tar Arpur.—The antiquity of this fruit has been already 
alluded to as furnishing a popular drink to our Saxon and 


422 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


June 15, 1871. 


_ Norman ancestors. It was most likely cultivated in the more 
civilised part of England before the Christian era, and, pro- 
bably, Kent being the most advanced district in the country in 
the arts of civilised life, might be as famous for its fruit at 
that early period as it is now; but we will not go into this 
matter as but little light is thrown upon it, but there is reason 
to believe that during the latter years of the Roman occupation 
of this country this iruit was as plentiful as it was several 
centuries afterwards. The troublesome period of the Saxon, 
Danish, and early Norman occupations being at variance with 
the cultivation of everything but that wanted for the neces- 
sities of everyday life, no doubt, restricted its growth to a 
few places less turbulent than the rest; and monasteries, and 
other religious establishments became the -principal fruit- 
growers of the kingdom, and to them we are, doubtless, in- 
debted for the earlier varieties of this fruit, until the inter- 
course with the Continent brought further consignments of 
trees, and no doubt but these were planted on the most favour- 
able sites that could be had. Orchards became more plentiful 
as more peaceful times came round, and instead of the Apple 
being confined to the table of the abbot and the noble, the 
peasant eventually came in for his share, and in his turn con- 
tributed not a little to improve the culture of the kinds then 
known, as well a8 now and then to introduce fresh ones. And 
at the present time there is certainly no lack of varieties to 
choose from, and the number is ever increasing, while some 
good old kinds still retain as high a name as ever. Although 
it must be admitted that some of these kinds are to all appear- 
ance about worn out, as the Ribston Pippin, for instance, still 
some kinds that were contemporary with it retain a respect- 
able place still in the market lists. But we now come to the 
first important feature in the cultivation of this tree, and one, 
perhaps, that above all others determines its well-doing or 
otherwise, and that is the 

Soil and Situation for an Apple Orchard.—And as this may, 
perhaps, be regarded as the most important matter in the 
paper, I may be excused dwelling more at length upon it than 
may be necessary with any of the other fruits. As many of 
the observations here given will hold good with them, I may at 
first say that one of the primary conditions to a successful 
result is only to plant this fruit where it is likely to do well. 
True, many, if not all, soils can be made so as to enable the 
tree to do tolerably well, but the expense of so doing will not 
insure that return for money expended, which is so essential a 
condition with the grower for market. Where, therefore, the 
soil and situation seem at variance with the well-being of an 
orchard, we emphatically say, Do not attempt one. Theamateur, 
or gentleman, to whom the pleasure of eating his own fruit is 
a luxury, for which he is willing to give more than double the 
price the fruit would fetch in the market, may exercise his 
hobby in overcoming the obstinate tenacity of a piece of stiff 
clayey land he wants to make into an orchard, and flatter 
himself he has accomplished a great feat in fruit culture, and 
we are far from denying bim all due merit in the case, but 
such an expenditure of money is not likely to be repaid to the 
grower for market. Again, we say, Do not plant in wet land, 
although you may think scientific draining will put it all right. 
Land for an orchard ought not to require draining, it being so 
much better for that operation to be done by Nature. Shallow 
poor soil, with an impenetrable subsoil, is even worse than 
stiff clay, as the latter can be improved by tillage, but some of 
the subsoils of certain districts contain so much that is per- 
nicious to all vegetation, as to be next to sterile, and totally 
unfit for the growth of fruit trees; and we may here observe 
that the Apple, and, in fact, all fruit trees derive a great amount 
of nourishment from the subsoil, and they rarely do well when 
his is not to their liking, and I believe the best examples of 
fruitfulness are to be found in those orchards where the 
subsoil, or understratum, is of a kind that invites the roots 
downwards without entailing any of those evils which follow 
when the roots come in contact with deleterious matter, and 
the Vale of the Medway presents many examples of this kind, 
while I should think some of the waste lands in the neighbour- 
hood, as Barming and Cannon Heath, to be composed of a thin 
poor soil, with a hard panny bottom impervious to the action 
of roots, or nearly so; but as I speak only from appearances, 
it is possible I may be wrong. Generally speaking, where a 
subsoil consists of a reddish-coloured material that water will 
scarcely soak though, it may be regarded as poor and unfit 
for orchard puryoses, yet industry has often brought such 
patches into a high state of cultivation; yet it is questionable 
if they can ever be made profitable as orchard grounds. Never- 


theless, the Apple, and most other fruits, are so accommodat- 
ing, that they are often found thriving in soils and situations 
diametrically opposite to each other. Witness the fine plant- 
ations of fruit trees in the neighbourhood of Snodland, on land 
raised but a very few feet above high-water mark, and on a soil 


that at some former period, not very remote, perhaps, had. 


been covered with water, and although deep and rich in many 
of the requirements of vegetation, would seem better adapted 
to husbandry purposes than that of a fruit orchard. On the. 
other hand, we may see the same kinds of fruits planted and 
thriving on the dry flinty slopes of the range of chalk hilis that 
traverse this country from west to east, but I believe the best 
and most productive orchards are on soils different from both 
of these, yet 1am far from certain which of the two soils L 
mention (and they differ much from each other), are the best- 
Both have their peculiarities, and both their advantages, and 
fruit is extensively grown on both of them. 

The two kinds of soils here alluded to are those resting re-— 
spectively on the limestone and sandstone formations. The 
former, which will be better understood if the term Kentish 
rag be applied to it, embraces large tracts of the best land in. 
the neighbourhood of Maidstone, extending to Malling, Water- 
ingbury, and with occasional breaks to Boughton Monchelsea,. 
and other places. The healthy character of this material as a. 
subsoil is evinced by the vigorous growth of most kinds of 
forest trees, whose roots descend to a depth that would hardly 
be credited, where the position is favourable for their doing so ; 
and the same may be said of many orchards, as, for instance,. 
those of Farleigh and other places, and from what I have seen 
of the condition of the Apple trees in this county, coupled with 
what I have seen of the same in other counties, I should be 
disposed to give the preference to a soil of this kind to that of 
any other, where situation and other considerations were fayour- 
able, a deep surface soil and plenty of stones being its usual 
characteristics, and in colour it is rather a light grey, not so 
white when dry as achalky soil, but without any tinge of yellow 
init. Sucha soil produces the largest elm timber, and the 
best feeding pastures, the abundance of calcareous matter it 
contains being favourable to the latter purpose, yet it does not. 
exist in so great a proportion as to approach the chalky cha- 
racter, but is 30 happily balanced as to be capable of supporting 
some of our largest timber trees, and I may say some fruit trees 
also, for a greater number of years than any other description 
of soil. But enough has been said on this head. Let us now. 
turn to another kind of soil, differing considerably from the 
one described, and yet possessing very important features of 
its own. And this is the scil resting on the sandstone forma— 
tion, which embraces a considerable portion of the southern 
edge of this county, from Benenden westward on to Tunbridge 
Wells, and still further. This fertile district might, perhaps,. 
have been still more favourable to the growth of trees had the 
sandstone on which it rests, and of whosedecompositicn it may 
be said to consist, been of a more durable character, for so 
completely has it disappeared in many places, that but few 
traces are left of its existence; but the presence of iron in the 
soil is evident in many places, especially at Brenchley, where 
the bed of a small rivulet is red withit. This soil certainly 
produces Apples of a different character from those grown on 
thé ragstone formation, the same varieties differing widely in 
the two places, and there seems no question of the superiority 
of the cider made in the sandstone district to that of the 
other, but whether the market basket is as well filled is another 
matter. Most likely many gentlemen here can answer this 
question better than I can; but if I ventured an opinion L 
would say the ragstone district produced the best sample. But 
possibly this may form a subject for comment. 

While here alluding to the character of the cider made in 
this county, I believe I am right in saying, that the best dis- 
tricts in the west of England for producing this drink resemble 
in some degree that of the sandstone country alluded to, and 
with the same absence of calcareous matter. Some orchards of 
the Dupplin Apple, so famed for its cider in the west, I have: 
seen growing on soil I should take to resemble that of Brenchley, 
on some hillsides in Cornwall, and the produce was said to be 
excellent, but I do not think the sample of fruit would satisfy 
the salesman at Covent Gardan, although some fruits grown 
there were of a good size. But in that district climate is as 
important an affair as soil, and as our purpose is not neces— 
sarily connected with the qualities of cider, the digression need 
not proceed further. But one peculiarity I may mention here, 
and one to which I would call most especial attention to, and 
that is the fact of these trees in the far-west being almost. 


/ 


June 15, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


423 


TL SRST aT ep 


entirely free from that grey lichen which, I am constrained to 
say, infests Apple trees in Kent more than I have ever seen in 
any other county, and I think more in the ragstone district 
than on the other. I do not mean old worn-out trees alone, 
but middle-aged trees, that ought to have been only at their 
best, become covered with it, and the wonder of fruit-growers 


from other districts is, that trees so much encumbered with | 


moss should bear good fruit. A remedy for this is not so easily 
obtained, but a hint may be taken from the condition of trees 
near the coast, especially the west one; they being perfectly 


free from moss, although stunted and far from healthy, we may 
fairly conclude the sea breezes, with now and then a sprinkling 
of salt spray, keep this pest down, and perhaps some experi- 
mentalist might do some good by exercising his Hop-washing 
engine with weak salt water during winter, when there are no 
leaves on the trees to do injury to. I merely throw out the 
hint, as I have reason to believe, from what little I have tried 
of it myself, that salt water is more efficacious than quick- 
lime in killing moss on trees. 


(To be continued.) 


GROUND LEVELLING AND PRACTICAL GARDEN PLOTTING.—No. 1s. 
DRAWING PLANS, 


ee apply the cord five times 


<i 


To draw and transfer jig. 
41 to the ground. From 
centre o draw circle abe d 
e f; divide it into five 
equal parts as before de- 
scribed. With point f as 
centre draw are 1, 1, as in- 
dicated by the thick and 
dotted lines; from the 
same point draw are 2, 2, 
as shown by radius f 2, 2; 
and from the same point 
draw ares 3and 4. From 
points a, b,c, e, draw cor- 
responding ares, and from 
centre o draw the outside 
circle. 

To transfer jig. 41 to 
the ground. Find the 
centre of the piece of 
ground, insert a peg as at 
centre o, and lay the dia- 
meter line a d. From 
centre o, with a string 
88 feet long, trace the out- 
side circle; reduce the 
string 4 feet, and trace 
circle a b c d e f with 
radius o a. From points 
a and d trace arcs inter- 
secting at t. Divide the 
diameter line a d, as de- 
scribed in jig. 40 (page 
386); lay a line from are 
t, passing through the se- 
cond division and cutting 
the circle in f; insert a 
peg at point f; lay a line 
from f to a, which is one 
side of the polygon, and 


PORTRAITS OF PLANTS, 


Drrmopa prcta (Spotted Drymoda). Nat. ord., Orchidaces. 
Linn., Gynandria Monandria.—Native of Moulmein. A pigmy 
Orchid, not 2 inches high. Flowers greenish, purple-spotted. 
—(Bot. Mag., t. 5904.) 

RHODODENDRON SINENSE (Chinese Rhododendron). Nat. ord., 
Ericacee. Linn., Decandria Monogynia. — Native of North 
China and Japan. Formerly this was called an Azalea, but 
‘botanists are now pretty well agreed in considering that 
Azalea can no longer be considered a distinct genus from 
Rhododendron.” Flowers dull orange.—(Ibid., t. 5905.) 

ANDROSACE CARNEA var. EXxIMIA (Showy Flesh-coloured An- 
drosace). Nat. ord., Primulacew. Linn., Pentandria Mono- 
gynia.—Native of the Pyrenees and Alps. Flowers pinkish 
purple.—(Ibid., ¢. 5906.) 

Fucusta srsstniroira (Stalkless-leaved Fuchsia). Nat. ord., 
Onaeraces. Linn., Octandria Monogynia.—Native of Colom- 
bia. Leafy greenhouse shrub from 3 to 6 feet high. Calyx 
pinkish and green ; corolla crimson.—(Ibid., t. 5907.) 

Dorstenta Manni (Mr. Mann’s Dorstenia). Nat. ord., Mo- 
racer. Linn., Tetrandria Menogynia.—Native of Old Calabar. 
All the parts of fructification green. A diminutive plant.— 
(Lbid., t. 5908). 

CurcuMA ALBIrnora (White-flowered Curcuma). Nat. ord., 


Fig. 41. Scale 24 feet to the inch. 


to the circle and insert a 
peg at each point, as at 
points a, b, c, e, f. From 
the peg at point f, with 
a string 45 feet long, trace 
are 1, as shown by f 1. 
There it is better to trace 
the arc from one side of 
the circle to the other, as 
shown by the thick and 
dotted line. As the ares 
are traced from the cor- 
responding points of the 
polygon, the walks can be 
easily determined, and also 
the angles of the beds.. 
Then reduce the string 
4 feet, which is the width 
of the walk, and trace are 
2, as shown by the thick 
and dotted line. From 
the same point, with a- 
string 13 feet long, trace 
arc 3; reduce the string 
4 feet and trace are 4. 
From the pegs at points 
a, b, c, e, with the same 
lengths of string, trace 
similar arcs, and the de- 
sign is complete. The five 
triangular figures round 
the centre pentagon are 
beds. Where the lines cut. 
each other are the angles 
of the beds. w indicatez 
the walks, sb the beds.— 
M. O'DonnEtt, Gardener to. 
E. Leeming, Esq., Spring. 
Grove, Richmond. 


FLOWERS, AND FRUITS. 


Scitaminaces. Liun., Monandria Monogynia. — Native of 
Ceylon. Flowers white ; lip yellow-bordered.—(Zbid., t. 5909.) 

PRIMULA JAPONICA (Japanese Primrose).—‘‘ Hail! Queen of 
Primroses !—for so its introducer designates the lovely flower 
we now figure, which is hardy as a peasant, resplendent as a. 
princess. It is just ten years since Mr. Fortune met with it in 
Japan, @ basketful of blooming plants having been brought to 
his door; they were of course secured, but the journey home 
was too much for them, and despite every care none reached’ 
England alive. Ever since that» time endeavours have been 
made to introduce this lovely plant, but. till now without suc- 
cess, since the seeds have been found to lose their germinating 
power in the course of transmission to Europe. At last, how- 
ever, perseverance has been rewarded, and from seeds sent to 
Mr, Fortune by W. Keswick, Esq., of China, and Messrs.. 
Walsh, Hall, & Co., of Japan, plants have been raised in the 
establishment of Mr. Bull, of Chelsea. Our gardens have thus 
secured a perfectly new, thoroughly hardy, and exquisitely 
lovely Primrose, one which is not only valuable on account of 
its intrinsic beauty, but doubly valuable as placing in the 
hands of the hybridiser important new materials, which will 
no doubt soon be turned to good account. 

‘“‘ This Primula japonica, which has been characterised by Pro- 


A424 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


fessor A. Gray in the “‘ American Academy of Arts and Sciences” 
(vol. vi., New Series), may be described as a vigorous-growing, 
stemless perennial, with oblong-spathulate, rugose, sharply 
denticulate leaves, 6 to 8 inches long, and about 3 inches 
broad. The scape is stout, erect, smooth, 1 to 14 foot high, 
bearing four or five distinct whorls of from ten to fourteen 
flowers, each flower having a subulate bract at the base of its 
pedicel. The flowers are about an inch in diameter, of a lively 
magenta colour, and the limb is flat, with obeordate distinct or 
overlapping segments, the individual flowers being altogether 
very suggestive of those of a highly-coloured Phlox Drummondii. 
it may be added that on the occasion of its being exhibited at 
the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on May 5rd, its 
first public appearance in England, it was voted a first-class 
certificate by acclamation. 

‘One great merit of this new Japanese Primrose is that 
it yields varieties no less beautiful than itself. Already the 
following distinct forms have been noted :— 

“ P. japonica lilacina.—This has flowers rather larger than the type; 
the eye is surrounded by a well-defined zone of orange-red, shading 
outwards to a beautiful rosy lilac, the outer portion of the corolla lobes 
being white. This very chaste-looking variety has been exhibited, and 
has received a first-class certificate. 

“ P. japonica alba.—This has white flowers, with a golden-yellow 
zone round the eye, and the flowers are rather below the average size. 

“ P. japonica carmmata.—This very distinct form has the flowers 
of a pure carmine red, with a maroon-crimson ring round the eye. 

_“P. japonica splendida.—A variety of dwarfer, denser, and more 
stocky habit than the type, the flowers above the average size, of a 
deep bright magenta, the zone of a rich bright crimson, surrounding a 
broad and open eye, which shows the yellow interior of the tube; the 
segments of the flower are very slightly overlapping. This is one of 
the most brilliant varieties yet obtained. 


“P. japonica rosca.—Very distinct, with the flowers of a lilac-rose, 
and haying a crimson ring round the eye. 

“OF the hardiness of the Primula japonica there can be no 
doubt, since plants which have been standing all the winter 
fully exposed in the trying atmosphere of London, are perfectly 
healthy, and came into bloom about the middle of May, some 
two or three weeks later than the plants which had been potted 
and flowered under glass.” —(Florist and Pomologist, 3s. iv. 121.) 


THE LAWN GRASS AND THE DAISY. 


“7 wisH you would go away and grow somewhere else,” said 
the Lawn Grass to a little white Daisy that was opening its 
first flower on the very edge of the grass, just where its green- 
ness was lost in the rich brown soil. 

“Why should I go away?” replied the Daisy. ‘I have 
everything that I wish, everything that is needful for life, and 
health, and growth. I have light, and air, and sunshine, and 
moisture, and sweet rich soil; I am more than content.” 

«“But I do not care for you so near me. I do not like your 
thick strong roots twining in and out among my fine fibry ones. 
Why cannot you go and live out on the commons, or the road- 
sides, or in the pasture fields among other Daisies? you would 
find there all that you need.” 

‘“ Why should my presence be so distasteful to you?” said 
the Daisy with a sigh. ‘‘ Are you envious lest my little white 
blooms should dot all over your dark green turf? Did not our 
ancestors dwell together in peace for hundreds and hundreds of 
years—Grass and Daisy, and Daisy and Grass—clothing the 
xich pasture fields, and climbing the high hills, and making 
more and more beautiful the warm sheltered valleys where men 
build their homes? Never cattle yet that I heard of turned 
away from their pasturage because my starry flowers adorned it.” 

“You are greatly mistaken, Miss Daisy, if you take me for 
the common Meadow Grass, that grows so long, and thick, and 
coarse, and over which the winged seeds play, and settle, and 
take root just as they will. I assure you you have ventured on 
forbidden ground; all this long sweep is sacred to my Lawn 
Grass; no weed nor flower is ever permitted here ; I have it all 
my own way.” 

“You are at best but stunted grass, miserable growth, good 
for neither man nor beast; short cousin to noble relatives, who 
pass you by without recognition. You are so shorn and swept 
over, and rolled upon, and tamed down, that nothing but colour 
remains of you. Why, you dare not hang out your little silver 
seed-bells even for an hour; you know they would be gone in 
no time—rudely swept away. Do you never tire of wearing the 
same unchanging green spring and autumn, and summer and 
winter, nothing to break the monotony of your eyer-enduring 
verdure ?” 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ June 15, 1871. 


“‘T change all too rapidly when the summer sun scorches 
me, and turns my emerald green to dusky brown.” 

“Do you never long to grow up and out into what Nature 
meant you, to bud, and bloom, and wir the fruition of all your 
growth? Ah! I do not envy you, your sameness would weary 
me. I would rather far be the common grass mountain sheep 
wander over, and wild flowers grow among.” 

“Yet I am loved and cared for,’ replied the Lawn Grass; 
“eyes weary of brilliant colours rest tenderly upon. me, and 
labour and cost are not counted to maintain me at my best.” 

“T, too, am loved,” said the Daisy softly, ‘‘though I grow 
without cost or care. Generation after generation of children 
have sat on sunny banks and woven their long Daisy chains; 
and poets have sung sweet verses of me that can never be 
forgotten.” 

“And yet you are the commonest of all flowers, a wayside 
weed, trodden upon without compunction, not cared for when 
present, not missed when absent.” 

‘(A wayside weed I may be, common too, that does not make 
me of less value. Iam still a starry flower with rose-tipped 
florets, growing almost everywhere; so enamoured of life that 
with a will and a grace I can adapt myself to every gradation 
of heat or cold, dryness or moisture. Not cared for, did you 
say? Why, bearded manhood passes me by reverently at dewy 
sunset, and children hush their prattle to catch the notes of 
my whispered prayer.”’ 

‘ All well enough, Miss Daisy,” replied the Lawn Grass, “ but 
you are out of place here; you cannot understand the necessi- 
ties of my position. Your life would be safer and better out in 
the summer woods, or on the wild moors. Your end will 
come.” F 

And it came all too soon for the poor little Daisy; a gar- 
dener passing by caught sight of it, and with a—‘‘ You are 
not wanted here,” threw it into a rubbish basket, and ended its 
short life.—A. M. 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 


WE have, on more than one occasion, noticed the beautifal 
stands of cur Rosrs which are from time to time exhibited by 
R. Webb, Esq., of Calcot, near Reading, and more especially 
the perfection, both in size and in richness of colour, in which 
he produces the Tea-scented Maréchal Niel, with which variety 
every spare place on his walls is covered. At the last show at 
South Kensington, on the 7th inst., he again exhibited examples 
of this Rose, which were admired by all who saw them, con- 


stituting, in fect, one of the features of the day, taking for his — 


two stands an extra prize in the miscellaneous class. 


— We are very pleased to see that under the title of ‘‘ My- 
conocicaL InnusrRrations,” edited by Mr. W. Wilson Saunders, 
assisted by Mr. A. W. Bennett and Mr. W. G. Smith, all well- 
known botanists, it is proposed to publish a series of coloured 
figures of British Hymenomycetous Fungi, drawn from fresh and 
well-developed specimens, with a view of giving faithful repre- 
sentations of many new and rare species not hitherto figured in 
any work published in this country; and also occasionally of 
refiguring such species as may be thought to require better 
illustration than has been given them in our standard works 
on the subject. 

—— Tur ToxtTetH Parx anp AicBurRTH GARDENERS’ Murusu 
IniprovEMENT Socrety isa success. Though the need of such 
a means of intercommunication and mutual assistance as this 
Society affords had long been felt, it did not appear certain 


what reception such an association would meet with. Atthe © 


commencement the names of twenty-four members were en- 
rolled, and during the first half-year, which ended in Septem- 
ber last, these were increased to forty. In the succeeding half- 
year fourteen new members were added, and six lost, leaving 
the present strength at forty-eight. The objects of the Society, 
as set forth in the rules, have been strictly adhered to; papers 
on subjects pertaining to gardening having been read and dis- 
cussed, and questions of practical interest considered at each 
meeting. An enumeration of the papers, in order as read, will 
furnish an idea of their nature and scope :—‘‘ The making and 
keeping of Grass Lawns,” by the President, Mr. J. H. Mason ; 
“The Potato and other members of the Nightshade family,” 
by the Vice-President, Mr. Thomas White; “The Origin and 
Nature of Soils,” Mr. George Thomson; ‘‘ What to Plant in 
Parks and Gardens,” Mr. Frederick Brown; ‘‘ Garden Peas,” 
by the Secretary; ‘‘The Culture of Mushrooms,” Mr. W. H. 
Waddington ; the latter completing the course for the first half- 
year. The second half-year was opened by the Vice-President, 


‘iateeeindiace: 


June 15, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


425. 


on “Ferns ;” followed by Mr. Joseph Hutchinson, ‘‘ The Prun- | 


ing of Hardy Fruit Trees; Mr. Brown, ‘‘ The Culture of 
Melons and Mushrooms ;” Mr. Joseph Gore, ‘‘ The Fuchsia ;”’ 
Mr. E. Roberts, ‘‘Pruning;” Mr. James Stewart, ‘‘ Forest 
Trees; Mr. Thomson, ‘‘ Variegated Pelargoniums;”’ and the 
Vice-President, on ‘‘Epiphyllums and the Cactus tribe.” 
Besides these, many other matters of interest have from time 
to time occupied the attention of the Society, and much profit- 
able discussion has arisen. 

— A Port’s Norton.—All plants are composed of essenti- 
ally two parts—the leaf and root—one loving the light, the 
other darkness; one liking to be clean, the other to be dirty ; 
one liking’to grow for the most part up, the other for the most 
part down; and each having faculties and purposes of its own. 
But the pure one, which loves the light, has, above all things, 
the purpose of being married to another leaf, and having child- 
ieaves, and children’s children of leaves, to make the earth fair 
for ever. And when the leaves marry they put on wedding- 
robes, and are more glorious than Solomon in all his glory, 
and they have feasts of honey, and we call them flowers.— 
(John Ruskin.) 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Hoe1nG, forking, and surface-stirring must be diligently per- 
severed in; their advantages are that weeds are extirpated, 
slugs disturbed and destroyed, moisture retained when it is most 
needed, and healthy root action preserved. Trenching vacant 
ground must be prosecuted where required, and if manure is 
wanted on ground about to be planted it is best to lay it 
upon the soil after it is trenched, and then fork itin. Let all 
green refuse be removed from every part, and either dug in or 
taken to the char heap. Boe careful not to take too much Aspa- 
ragus from the main beds; it is best to have a reserve bed, 
which, if closely cut, will throw up shoots for a considerable 
time, and as it will thus be rendered useless, a new bed should 
be made every year to supply the deficiency. A sowing of 
Early Mazagan Beans in an exposed situation made now will 
be useful by-and-by. Plant out the forwardest Brussels Sprouts, 
Buda Kale, and Green Savoys; if the weather keep dry the 
holes had better be puddled. Plant also Caulijlowers for suc- 
cession. Continue the gradual thinning of Carrots and Onions 
as they may be required for use, but Parsnips, Red Beet, Sal- 
safy, and Scorzonera should always be thinned to the proper 
distance at once. Cucumbers on ridges and banks must have 
plenty of water, and liquid manure occasionally. A few more 
Dwarf Kidney Beans may be sown for succession. 
Marrow and Early Frame Peas for succession ; these are bene- 
fited by a slight soaking in water'previous to sowing, and also 
by pouring water upon them after they are laid in the drills, 
but not after they are covered. Advancing crops will be bene- 
fited by applications of liquid manure, not too strong, twice 
a-week. See that the ground is kept well stirred. Scarlet 
Runners must have the earth well stirred about them. Salad- 
ing of all sorts is now in great request; look well to successional 
sSowings, and let all have copious supplies of water to induce 
crispness and coolness. The buds of Sea-kale on the old roots 


must be thinned out considerably, and, if not already done, 


dress the beds with strong manure and fork it in. Young 
seedlings of Sea-kale must also be thinned, and the thinnings 
transplanted if required. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

If dry weather continue we would recommend that due at- 
tention be given to the watering of fruit trees, for as the fly and 
other insects are unusually prevalent, an extra exhaustion will 
be the consequence. It is impossible to apply tobacco water 
in extent commensurate with the evil. Clean water can, how- 
ever, be heavily battered on the infested trees, and in such 
cases it is well to have scme slaked lime.at hand to cover the 
ground at the foot of the trees, for unless something of the 
kind be done the insects will reascend. ‘To those who are 
particularly anxious about the future success of their favourite 
fruits, or who have been planting new kinds, I would recom- 
mend them to make strenuous efforts during the present period 
to extirpate insects and to assist weakly trees. Rest assured 
that no mode of planting, winter pruning, or complicated modes 
of training, will be of any avail unless the vegetation of the 
summer’s growth be attended to in due time. Gross shoots, or 
robbers of all kinds, should constantly be stooped when about 
4 inches long throughout the growing season. A very general 
mulching should now be given to the fruit trees where they 


Sow Knight’s | 


are properly planted and possess, as they ought to do, abun- 
dance of surface roots. 
FLOWER GARDEN. 

On light dry soils many things will be greatly benefited by a 
thorough soaking of water, especially coniferous plants, most 
of which make but one growth during the season, and should 
be encouraged at the proper time where rapid growth is wished. 
This attention will be especially necessary in the case of young 
specimens growing on lawns. If Stocks, China Asters, &c., 
are not already planted out where they are to flower, take ad- 
vantage of the first showery day to do this, and attend to them 
for a few days with water until they become established. See 
that Dahlias, Hollyhocks, &c., are properly staked and kept 
tied up to prevent their being broken by sudden storms. Let 
the mass flowers have frequent sprinklings, and apply the hoe 
through them to break the crust. Still keep a watchful eye on 
blanks about the ornamental department, and let them be 
instantly filled with some of the reserve stock or with late 
annuals. Newly-laid turf should receive water, and, if suffer- 
ing, strew some tan or litter thinly over to break the sun’s rays. 
The Roses must have some attention. 


GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

The beds in the conservatory, if they have been properly 
made, will now require a large supply of water to keep them 
in a sufficiently moist state, and the soil should be occasionally 
examined, especially near strong-growing plants, for the amount 
of moisture absorbed by these at this season is greater than 
manypersons imagine. Whenever water is applied the beds 
should be thoroughly soaked to the bottom, and where it can be 
done without annoyance to the family, manure water should be 
given to such plants as are known to enjoy it. This should bo 
furnished in moderate quaxtities, after well soaking the soil 
with clean water, for to give it in large quantities would pro- 
bably cause it to reach and injure some adjacent plant. If red 
spider make its appearance upon any of the specimens growing 
in the borders, the pot plants in flower should be removed as 
soon as possible, and the infested subjects given a thorough 
washing with the engine, and this should be repeated at short 
intervals until the enemy be thoroughly subdued. Sprinkling 
the surface of the soil and paths must be often resorted to— 
during bright weather two or three times a-day; and by alk 
means let a thin screen of some kind be thrown over the roof, 
or portions of it, from 10 o’clock until 3 p.m. This will retard 
the beauties already in blossom, and prevent too great a 
demand on the energies of the plants. Let the growths of the 
Azaleas for the next year be encouraged without delay. These 
should be in a plant-house by themselves, or they may be 
placed along with young or growing Camellias. Syringe several 
times a-day, and throw a screen over them whilst making their 
growth, and stop gross shoots in order to equalise their powers. 
and to produce symmetry of form. 


STOVE. 

See that the specimens here are afforded plenty of space. 
The inmates of this house are mostly plants of easy props- 
gation and rapid growth, and, consequently, in many cases ad- 
vantage is taken to grow too many for the accommodation at 
command, with the result that there is hardly a respectable 
specimen produced. There can be no doubt that a moderate 
quantity of well-managed specimens will be more valued than a 
larger number of hali-starved, miserable-looking subjects. At- 
tend frequently to the growth of climbers, and prevent their 
getting intoa state of entanglement. Aim at securing for Orchids. 
rapid growth by keeping the house warm and maintaining a 
regular humid atmosphere, sprinkling the paths, &c., suffi- 
ciently often on bright days to keep them continually moist, 
but be careful not to make the plants over-wet at the roots, by 
using the syringe too freely over the foliage. Let specimens 
in baskets or on blocks be kept sufficiently moist. These will 
enjoy a slight bedewing with the syringe morning and evening. 
whilst in a growing state. 

PITS AND FRAMES. 

Hardwooded plants in these structures will now enjoy a more 
moderate temperature than they probably could obtain in 
houses, especially in pits turned to the north, which will prove 
a good place for some of the tribes in very hot weather.— 
W. Kzane. 

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. ~ 
KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Tuer wind on the 10th still keeps due north, and there have 

been some very cold mornings during the week, the sky over- 


426 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 15, 1871. 


east with hard lead-coloured clouds, and not a speck of dew 
to refresh the stunted foliage. 
hhowever, we had a few minutes of a sunny shower, and 
since then the weather has been more genial, and we hope that 
it will continue so. This change has led to a change in our 
treatment. 

We never saw things stand still more than they have done 
lately. For eight days Cauliflowers, though looking healthy 
‘enough, made no advance; the little heads seemed resolved 
not to budge an inch. In the usual June weather we should 
hhave made them do so by a free manure-watering at the roots, 
aking care that it did not reach the hearts or even the leaves 
of the plants to any extent. But when the air was so cold and 
the earth so cold we had little faith in a deluging with cold 
-water. Vegetables would often be better without it. The 
comparative warmth of the 10:h, however, induced us to give 
a good soaking with sewage, which was soft and not over-cold. 
As the Cauliflowers were standing on beds no extra water was 
likely to remain. After this sunny afternoon we expect to see 
a great change in two or three days as respects the firm flower- 
heads. Cabbages we also assisted with such waterings, as we 
want free gatherings now. Successions of all things have been 
attended to as have been frequently referred to, and it will be 
well to thin Turnips, Lettuces, &c., in good time. 

Asparagus.—There have been extra demands for this during 
the present season, and it has never been better. Now, as Peas 
are coming in pretty freely, we must let the Asparagus run and 
grow for next season, gathering the heads much more sparingly. 
From what we intend forcing no heads have been gathered for 
fully three weeks. We scattered enough salt to make the 
ground whitish between the rows. A slight sprinkling of salt 
is of advantage in old kitchen gardens, and especially for all 
plants which belong naturally to the sea coast. It is one of 
the best means of settling worms, slugs,and snails. A greater 
dressing, such as suits Asparagus, keeps the ground moist in a 
dry season—one reason why salt should neyer be applied to 
gravel walks, except early in the year. 

Cucumbers.—Our plants in frames over a dung bed in the 
casual way have done very well, but they have not borne so 
Heavily as those in a 6-feet-wide pit with a 3}-feet bed in front 
and a pathway sunk behind, so as to do the work inside. The 
extra fertility we attribute to the plan adopted as described 
some time ago—namely, not turning the plants out in the 
narrow bed, but planting in 15-inch pots, and sinking the pots 
in sweet manure covered with soil, and fresh surfacing the 
plants as they grew, until the pots were surfaced over and the 
roots passed out and ran along the surface of the bed, to be 
slightly covered again and again. We know no plan to equal 
this, where there is little roof-room. When the gardener has 
a wide span-roofed house he may boast of fine parasol leaves, 
and also have fine fruit and in fair abundance; but when the 
greatest quantity of fruit in a small space becomes the chief 
object, then the number of the fruit is of more importance than 
the huge size of the leaves, for the latter are only good for 
looking at. By curbing the roots in the first instance the leaves 
are kept comparatively small though healthy, and the fruit 
¢ome in such abundance that many of the small ones must be 
Gut away. 

Mushrooms.—We put up an additional piece in the Mush- 
zoom house, and spawned a bed in good order for the purpose; 
previous beds bearing profusely. The bed which we described 
Jately as being barren in the centre is now over, and we have 
not quite made up our mind as to renewing it, for we can 
hardly expect the weather to remain as cold as it is now, and 
though we have had fine Mushrooms all the season in a Mush- 
room house above ground, we prefer from the end of June to 
have the beds in cellars, or shady open sheds. In answer to 
some inquiries, we are sorry to say that we can add nothing to 
what has frequently been advanced. Too great heat at spawn- 
ing-time is a fruitful source of failure; 80° with a tendency to 
fall is a good average heat. If in the least degree higher, the 
#pawn should be laid but littlein the manure. If much lower, 
Say averaging 60°, the spawn will not run so quickly, but it 
will run at a low temperature, as we have had beds out of doors, 
from which we gave up gathering about November, left with only 
a slight covering all the winter, and they produced freely the 
following March and April, after watering with warm water. 
For constant supply we prefer shallow beds, say about 15 inches 
deep, and to make a piece often. Some time ago we saw a fine 
bed in a horse-box, the size of two stalls, which the farmer did 
not want for six months. The bed was made flat, with 16 inches 
deep of well-wrought stable manure, and 6 inches of horse drop- 


On the afternoon of the 9th, | 


pings on the surface, and spawned when about 78°, and as the 
bed kept falling towards 70°, it was earthed-over with stiffish 
soil, and then a little dry litter was placed over it. In seven 
weeks the gentleman, besides what he used himself, had the 
pleasure of sending baskets of nice Mushrooms to his friends. 
He was never so successful again, to punish him, he said, for 
his boasting that he would beat the gardeners. The truth 
is, that he was less attentive to the minor points necessary 
to secure success. Considering how the Mushroom flavour 
helps many a fine dish in which it is not seen, we wonder 
that more farmers do not have a bed in some shed or out-of- 
the-way corner. 
FRUIT GARDEN. 

The work has been very much the same as in previous weeks. 
We commenced shortening shoots of Apple, Pear, and Pium 
trees, picking out their points. This is preferable to cutting 
them when larger, as answering the purpose better, and giving 
a less sudden check to the system of the plants. 


ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Pinks now want supporting, also Picotees, Cloves, and Car- 
nations. The frost of the winter has made havoc with fine 
lines from which we expected sheaves of cut bloom. Young 
plants with a flower-stem or two are all that are wanted for a 
few fine blooms, but they are almost worthless when great 
masses of bloom are required. Having but limited room we 
were forced to let Perpetual Carnations, &c., go into abeyance, 
but now we should be glad of themagain. They formed splen- 
did beds in summer, never ceasing to bloom, and for winter 
blooming they were invaluable. Like many others, we have 
been under the necessity of making some things special for a 
time and then giving them up for something else. A corre- 
spondent asks us how to treat his Ranunculus, which, he 
says, were given to him as a valuable collection. First, let 
them not suffer from want of water, but yet keep them cool 
and the soil round them firm. The easiest way to do this 
we found to be to firm the plants well when the bloom-stalks 
began to appear, then loosen the surface soil a little, water 
liberally, and cover the ground between the plants with rough 
riddled rotten dung or leaf mould. If more watering is wanted 
there will be the richness of this mulching added, and, if 
not required, it will do much to secure moisture and coolness 
below. 

We have had much potting and much more left to do, but 
we shall pass all for the present, only saying that we have 
broken the back of our bedding-out, though there will be still a 
considerable amount of making-up, and such plants as Coleus 
we shall keep where they can be protected for a week. 

Watering.—Ilt is quite common to find directions in contem- 
poraries about watering bedded-out plants three or four times 
a-week. That we consider to be drenching indeed in such 
weather. What we planted out, though mostly raised from the 
soil and not turned out of pots, we watered rather sparingly 
when planted, and from that time we gave no more water until 
this day, after the greater warmth of yesterday, and because 
the leaves had become enveloped in a misty fog. Strange 
though it may seem to some, such a misty warm day is just the 
day to water. Our plants have suffered a little from the cold 
weather, but if we have warm weather it will not be noticed a 
fortnight hence; they would have suffered more if we had 
added to the coldness of the roots by watering. We have not 
lost a single plant turned out, though a few Coleus plants put 
in just to let it be seen what was intended are very much 
browned. 

Now is a good time to repot Salvia splendens, and all the 
smaller-leayed flowering Begonias for autumn and winter 
blooming. This Salvia does well plunged or planted ont of 
doors at the end of June, and raised and potted carefully in 
the autumn. It makes quite a blazein the first winter months. 
We have tried it repeatedly in the flower garden, but our place 
is too windy and cold for it. In sheltered localities much 
farther north it does well out of doors. We have seen single 
plants on lawns like a burning bush for brightness. Cuttings 
of Begonias put in now will make pretty, small, flowering plants 
before winter. 

Achimenes coming into bloom like a saucer to stand in, they 
do admirably when treated as semi-aquatics. The finest we 
ever saw had the pots standing in the inner row of a conser- 
vatory fountain, and the bottom of the pot was in from one- 
eighth to one-quarter of an inch of water. Necessity is some- 
times a fair instructor. Every day we have less faith in general 
shading, less faith in sulphur as a deterrent to red spider, 


OE T— 


June 15, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


427 


unless from its fumes, and less faith in the propriety of send- 
ing gusts, of cold air into hothouses.—R. F. 


.- TO CORRESPONDENTS. 


*.* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘“ Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, dc., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. ‘ 

“We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same 
sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry 
and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them answered 
promptly and conyeniently, but write them on separate 
communications. Also never to send more than two or 
three questions at once. 

N.B.—Many questions must remain unanswered until next 
week. 


Books (Theta).—There is no small book on Conifer. Gordon’s “ Pine- 
tum” is the best, and is nota large volume. (7. M.).—Keane’s “ In-door 
Gardening” may suit you; you can have it free by post from our Ofiice if 
you enclose twenty postage stamps with your address. 


ApprEss (A. J.).—We cannot give the address. 


Exoric Ferns (4 Constant Reader).—All in your list are exotic except 
the Adiantum Capillus-Veneris, which is a native of this country. You 
do not seem to be aware that “exotic” means a native of any other 
country than the British Islands. 


CorraGErRs’ HorricuLtturaL Suows (C. B. M.).—One of the most suc- 
cessful was established at Pytchley by the late Rey..Abner Brown. We 
have his rules, &c., which we will lend you if you send us your address. 


DryinGc Ferns (A Subscriber).—Spread between sheets of thick blotting 
paper the specimens in their natural position, placing every pinna flat 
and separate, and put on the top of the blotting paper a flat boardanda 
weight of 7 lbs., or thereabouts. It is best to have a quire of blotting 
paper. When quite dried place them on sheets of cartridge paper, and 
attach them to it by narrow slips of green paper passed over the stems 
and made to adhere to the cartridge paper by strong gum water. 

CHRYSANTHEMUM CurtTines (Idem).—Nice little plants for late bloom 
may be obtained by taking off cuttings 5 or 6 inches in length from the 
tops of the shoots in July or August, striking them in slight bottom heat, 
potting off in 4-inch pots, placing on a hard bottom out of doors, and 
shifting into 6-inch pots when they have filled the others with roots. 


RalsiIng WaTER (D. Davis).—An artesian wellin your case is out of the 
question. An Abyssinian tube pump would suit you; but really as the 
water is so plentiful within such a short space as 6 feet from the surface, 
we should be inclined to make a shallow well in the usual way, attach a 
common pump to it, with a cistern to pump in for common purposes. If 
you wish to raise the water some 20 or more feet, so as to flow where you 
wantit, then haye a small force pump and an elevated cistern. The 
Abyssinian pump would be the simplest. We would, however, in your case, 
simply make a shallow well. 


STRAWBERRIES IN Pors FoR NEXT SEASON (4 Subscriber).— Perhaps 
the simplest plan to prepare Strawberry plants for forcing is to layer the 


runners as soon as you can obtain them in light rich soil in 83-inch pots, | 


fastening the runner into the soil with a little stone over it. Water when 
necessary. When the pots are full of roots cut the runners, repot them 
Airmly in 6-inch pots, and set the plants on a hard bottom in the sun- 
niest spot you can command. Never let the plants want for water until 
the end of autumn, and before frost sets in place the pots in your cold 
pit, or wherever they can be protected from excessive moisture and 
qmauch frost in winter. If you have no runners you may obtain them and 
treat them as above, but depending on themselves, when placed in 
small pots; they should be shaded before they begin to grow. Black 
Prince is good for producing freely and early with little heat, but Keens’ 
Seedling is best for a beginner. For later production have a few of 
President, Dr. Hogg, &c. 

CUCUMBERS IN A LEAN-To House (W. L.).—Your proposed plan of 
growing Cucumbers will answer very well, but to commence in April the 
dung of the bed would require to be well worked and sweetened before 
making the bed, and therefore more would be required. Even then you 
would require to protect the glass by covering at night up to the middle 
of June. Without coyering the glass, from the middle to the end of May 
would be quite time enough to plant out over such a bed. Your high 
wall at back and open pathway will detract so far from the heat of the 
bed. You might have Cucumbers as early as you liked if you added hot- 
wwater pipes. 


SUMMER-PRUNING Pear TREES (7. L. M).—In the present case we quite 
agree with the gentleman, and disagree with the gardener. The nipping- 
back the shoots of a Jargonelle Pear in the first days of June to an inch 
dn length has a tendency to make every bud left start into a wood shoot. 
It is a much better plan to nip out the point of the young shoot when it 
is 6 inches long. By doing so with Apples and Pears we often get fine 
fruit buds formed at the base of the shoots of this year. We would have 
so nipped all our shoots on dwarfs and pyramids but for press of work, 
but it will not be longer neglected. If a tree is growing very vigorously 
it is well to leave a number of shoots untouched in order to attract 
‘the sap, but not so many as to shade the shortened ones from the sun. 
It is also advisable, in the case of a large tree, to do such work at three 
times, with an interval of a few days between them, beginning at the top 
of the tree ; then follow with the middle, and finish with the part near the 
base. This does much to regulate and equalise strength, and to mature 
buds throughout. 


LAWN SAnp (EZ. P.),—We only know it by the advertisement. 


Royat Horticunturan Society. F. R. H. 8.” asks, ‘Is there to be 
no Horticultural Congress this year at Nottingham? The papers last 
year at Oxford, and the discussions, were decidedly interesting, and it 
affords the means of ventilating many of the gardening questions of the 
day. It is not too late, with an energetic committee of management 
such as the one which holds the reins at Nottingham, to make arrange- 
ments for one even now. There are plenty of subjects to choose from. 
Take the water question alone, for instance, as ‘ Storing up Water Sup- 
plies ;’ ‘Application of Water to Plants ;’ ‘Syringing ; ‘ Liquid Manures ;’ 
‘Heating by Hot Water;’ ‘ Boilers;’ &c.” 

Market GARDENING (W. C.).—So much depends upon circumstances 
of which we know nothing, that we cannot advise. Skill, connection, 
opposition, &c., have to be considered. 


PIT MADE INTO A House (dn Old Subscriber).—In looking over what is 
stated at page 390, we think a slight error of two words has crept in. You 
will come to the sentence, “Have the ridge-board so as to receive your 
sashes in front on rafters, these sashes to be moveable at back.” We 
want you to leave out the words ‘at back,” because as these sashes are 
moveable we wish you to use them for all the ventilation you need, 
pulling part a little down when you want top ventilation, and shoving 
them up over the ridge-board when you want front ventilation. There 
are modes of pivot-hanging the coping of the ridge-board to do that 
easily, but if you can gain access to the front of the house outside, you 
could elevate two sashes in front by placing a notched block of wood 
beneath them, and bring two down a little from the top, and have all the 
ventilation you need. We advocate this mode as you have the sashes 
already. The back span or hipped roof we would bave fixed. You may 
have front glass of course, and you must haye it, if you wish to work up- 
right in front; but we have supposed you wanted merely a bed there for 
keeping your plants, which you could reach from the path behind it. In 
such a case you might run a 12 or 20-inch square of glass, fixed all the 
way along, between the boarded wall and the wall plate on which your 
sashes rest in front. If you have any moyeable sashes in front you will 
much increase the expense. We would be satisfied with the house on the 
same site. You’ may make the additional width at back, or both back 
and front. If you did the former we would have a bed in front anda 
stage behind. We would leave the flue where it is. The heat will be 
sure to ascend. We would like it all the better for the flue being so 
much below the level of the boards on which you set the plants. The 
flue being low would better enable youto have a hotbed of stable manure, 
but in that case there must be openings to let the heat up from the flue, 
and you must likewise have a flooring across 2 or 8 inches above the flue, 
or you should surround the flue and cover it with 3 or 4 inches of rubble 
work. In such a small place we think that having a hotbed would be 
more trouble than it was worth, and then you must sweeten the manure 
well before introducing it if you have plants in the house at the time. 
We think the flue will do all you want. For such sashes no rollers will 
be necessary. Twenty-one-ounce glass will be ample for the back, and 
instead of seconds and thirds we should be satisfied with good fourths. 


MusHROOM-GROWING IN A CELLAR (A Subscriber).—There is no road to 
success without care, forethought, and attention, and you may have 
given all these and yet not succeed. We cannot be sure, because we 
know nothing of the state of the half load of manure ‘you bought and ~ 
put in the cellar, and left there to sweeten before making the bed.” In 
the first place, half a load would make but a small bed; in the second 
place, we would prefer working and sweetening it before placing it in the 
cellar; thirdly, in a cellar 60° was scarcely high enough for the bed at 
spawning time; we would have preferred it to be from 10° to 15° more. 
Still, as the bed retains that temperature, the spawn will run. From 55° 


| to 60° will be high enough for the temperature over the surface of the 


bed. As you have spawned the bed, if you have not earthed it over, we 
would advise you to add from 1 to 2 inches of horse droppings to the 


| surface before earthing. If earthed over already, then cover the bed 
»with a little hay or clean straw, a mat, or cloth, &c., just to give the 


slightest additional heat. In two months, or earlier, from spawning you 
may expect Mushrooms. In “ Doings of the Last Week” lately it was 
stated how the centre of a bed suffered from oyer-heating, whilst the 
sides bore profusely. In the same place small beds are like a white 
sheet all over, but the beds were 15° warmer than yours when spawned. 


Lawn Grass Farnrne (J. N.).—You should at once cover the lawn 
with rich soil, having previously raked it well with an iron rake. The 
soil should be put on one-quarter to half an inch thick; after the first rain 
it should be again raked well, and when dry the following mixture may 
be sown :—Festuca duriuscula, 6 lbs.; Festuca ovina, 2 1bs.; Cynosurus 
cristatus, 6 lbs.; Poa nemoralis, 2 lbs.; Trifolium repens, 4 1bs.; Lotus 
corniculatus minor, 1]b. Roll the ground well after sowing. The lawn 
should not be mown or rolled for at least a fortnight after sowing. The 
seeds may be had of any of the principal seedsmen. 


Bups oF Giorre DE Dison Rose Turnine YELLow (H. A. B.).—We 
cannot think the buds on Gloire de Dijon on a south wall have damped- 
off; they have more likely dried off. Perhaps the base of the buds is 
attacked with mildew, or it may be that the roots are too dry. The 
Rose weevil will also at times eat the heart of the Rose buds and preyent 
them from opeuing. We could give more definite advice if we saw the 
buds, or had more information about the tree, soil, &c. 


Oax Leaves DEFORMED (Wm. N.).—The swellings and contortions near 
the leafstalks are caused by a Cynips. You will find a grub of the insect 
in each swelling. 

EXHIBITING RosEs (An Irish Subscriber).—The Dublin Rose Exhibition 
on the 29th of June is too late, except for budded stocks of Roses. You 
cannot thwart or retard Nature advantageously. You should have re- 
moved carefully some of your trees in February; that is the most legi- 
timate way of retarding, combined with later pruning. All you can now 
do is to pull off your forward buds, and thin out the side buds to one or 
two of different sizes on each twig. This is a matter requiring judgment 
and great experience. It requires a knowledge of the habit of each par- 
ticular Rose, and of the length of time under ordinary weather, with 
help, each formed bud takes to arrive at development. Such a Rose as 
Général Jacqueminot would arrive at development at least a fortnight or 
three weeks before such a Rose as Duchesse d’Orléans. Roses may 
legitimately be hastened by stirring the ground, by mulching and water- 
ing, and by placing squares of glass oyer the mulching. I do not know 
of any maker of Rose exhibition-boxes. Get the Rey. S. R. Hole’s book 
on ‘* Roses, How to Grow and Show Them,” and at page 214 you will see 


428 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 15, 1871. 


foll instructions. Any village carpenter could make them.—W. F. Rap- 
CLYFFE, 


Liqtok From TANNERS’ Prts (S.).—The water from tan pits we have 
no doubt would be very useful for watering all kinds of vegetable crops, 
but we do not think it would be suitable for plants in pots. Pour it 
between rows of Cabbages, Cauliflowers, Broccoli, Beans, Peas, Asparagus, 
Scarlet Runners, Rhubarb, &c. For watering plants, 1 oz. of guano toa 
gallon of water forms a good liquid manure. Strain before use, as some 


Spates of the guano are less soluble than others. Let itstand about twelve 
ours. 


HERBACEOUS CALCEOLARIAS (Idem).—They may be propagated from 
cuttings. Take off the side shoots from the base and insert them in sandy 
loam and leafsoil. Place them in a cold frame or under a hand-light, 
keeping them close, moist, and shaded until rooted ; then admit air freely. 
Shift the plants as required into larger pots, and remove them to the 
greenhouse in October. The best plants are obtained from seed sown in 
a pan placed in a shady spot and covered with a hand-glass. The old 
plants are of no use, and the cuttings are not half so good as seedling 
plants either in growth or flowering. 


TRICOLOR PELARGONIUMS (Idem).—The cuttings are best taken off before 
the middle of August, any time from February until then will do. They 
strike very well in a gentle heat up to June, and afterwards in a cold 
frame. We use a compost of two parts loam from a pasture where the 
soil is of a good, rich, light nature, paring it off about 14 inch thick, and 
laying it up for six months, then chopping it up rather fine, and adding 
one part of well-rotted dung—old dry cow dung being preferred—halfa 
part of sandy peat, half a part of charcoal in pieces from a pea toa hazel 
nut, and one-sixth of silver sand, the whole well mixed. 


Hnnoretstern.—* N. H. P.” wishes for the botanical name of the bright 
blue flower which grows so abundantly on elevated ground in Germany, 
where it is called Himmelstern. Some description of the plant should 
have been given by our correspondent, and a reference to some well- 
Inown plant which it resembles. It may bealocalname for Polemonium 
ezruleum, which is called in German Himmelsleiter ; or Iris germanica, 
which is Hinmelslilie ; or Gentiana verna, which is Himmelstangel. If 
ay of our readers know the plant inquired after, we hope they will state 
it to us. 


SEEDLING Groxrtas (ZH. H.).—All Gloxinias are handsome, but yours 
are not equal to many well-known varieties. The Vine leaf is not 
diseased; the rough elevations at the back are rather indications of 
vigour. 

SEEDLING Fic (Richard Jameson).—The seedling Fig is large and pro- 
mising, but the flavour of the specimen sent is not so good as we think 
it will be when grown in a drier atmosphere and later in the season. 


SEEDLING Pansies (Centurion).—Some years ago the Pansies and Ge- 
Taniums you have sent wonld have been valuable, but they are now much 
behind many we have. Those of one colour, or with white and yellow 
grounds with one colour on the edge of the petals, are show Pansies. All 
others, irregularly marked, and so on, are Belgian or fancy. 


Nawes oF Prants (M. Smith):— Primula cortusoides. (Macbeth).— 
2, Euonymus vulgaris. (New Subscriber).—1, Jasminum Sambac; 2, Te- 
coma jasminoides; 3, Jasminum revolutum. (TZ. S.).—Echeveria se- 
ceunda. (J. Woodlef).—Your plant is Sisymbrium Millefolium, and your 
Fern frond appears to be a young state of the Lady Fern (Athyrium 
Filix-femina), and if so,it is hardy. (East Sussex)—Maxillaria Harri- 
soniz. (J. Smythe)—Muscari comosum, the Musk Hyacinth. It is quite 
hardy. What you mistake for stamens are the very long tubes of the 
perianth, the enlarged tips being the unopened limb of the perianth. 
(Lady King).—We are quite unable to tell from such a poor specimen. 
On a second or third attempt we think that very possibly the plant may 
be a broad-leaved state of Psoralea pinnata. (D. M.).—Asplenium fon- 
tanum, found all over sonthern and middle Europe. (G. D.).—4, Hovea 
Celsii; 5, Solanum jasminoides; 6, Very possibly Mandevilla suaveolens, 
but no flower received. (M. H. M.).—The Night-scented Stock, Matthiola 
tristis. (4 Subscriber).—Erythrina Humei. (Macbeth).—1, Ornithogalum 
pyramidale ; 2, Euonymusvuigaris. (G.E.Worden).—The Fernis Mohria 
thurifraga; the Dendrobium is D. primulinum; the Oak-galls sent are 
curious, and certainly not common. (Pro. tem.).—1, Pernettya myrtil- 
loides; 2, Jasminum revolutum; 3, Gladiolus segetum. (Poplar).— 
Kalmia angustifolia; will succeed in a cool greenhouse, and may be 
placed out of doors in summer. (A Reader).—Pyrus Fennica. Your 
Conifer must be a remarkably fine specimen. (A.J. Hogq).—Rhododen- 
dron ferrugineum, native of the Alps and central Europe generally. 
(R. R. S. H.).—Indigofera decora. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE, 


GAME BANTAMS. 


No one relishes more than I do a little good-humoured fun, 
even when the fun is poked at myself; so that I relished much 
Mr. Entwisle’s poke af me on the Game-Bantam subject last 
week, for it was both good-humoured and in good taste. Five 
years ago last January! That isa long time since, Mr. Ent- 
wisle ! 

“ Five years have past; five summers, with the lengths 
Of five long winters.” 

The world is wonderfully changed since then; it is a different 
world in Europe now, and in England too, to what it was then. 
Why, every German thinks himself a changed and greater man 
since eyen this time last year; and everybody knows that our 
Prime Minister thinks it his duty to alter his opinion, as he 
has done in a year’s space, on grave matters of state policy. So 
that in ‘‘ fancies—things light as air,’ Iam not ashamed to 
haye altered my opinion since January, 1866. My feeling in 
regard to Game Bantams is, that I still much dislike to see 


short-legged, Bantam-shaped birds, only Game in plumage, 
and that not over-good; but that long-legged, slender-shaped, 
gamey bird I do like, and breed with much pleasure. 

Perhaps, as I mentioned one name before, because I best 
knew the birds bred by that exhibitor, I will mention another 
name, and the mention of which will, I am gure, gratify my 
good-humoured reminder of past opinions. On asking oneof 
the most important members of the poultry world, and one 
whom and whose opinion I greatly respect, ‘‘ Who now have 
the best Game Bantams?” I received this reply—‘ The best 
that are exhibited come from Crosland’s and Entwisle’s yards.” 

My fancy is comprehensive enough to make me wish to keep 
almost all varieties of poultry were I able, and certainly all the 
varieties of Bantams. I still greatly love the older sorts, and 
long to have a turn at Sebrights, and may, perhaps, another 
year. The Blacks are, again, fascinating little fowls, and Mr. 
Entwisle has my best wishes for his success in bringing, as I 
hope he will be able to do, thoroughly good-shaped Piles, Brown- 
breasted Reds, and Duckwings to the show pen, good in shape 
as well as feather. 

I quite agree with him, that among Game Bantams the 
smallest birds are not the best, they are apt to be short in the 
leg and thick in form; neither are the largest best, but now 
and then comes a medium-sized bird, that has the unmistake- 
able gamey shape and carriage. 

I hoped to see Stroud Show, but had to call in the doctor, 
who forbad travelling, and hence I hada great disappointment, 
for shows are scarce in the west of England, and I shou!d have 
met men as well as birds at Stroud. 

I own to have thoroughly altered my opinions as to the non- 
profitableness of Bantams. Fowls that if at liberty need corn but 
once a-day and lay abundance of eggs must be profitable, even 
not considering for the moment the cleansing of a garden irom 
insects, and the Game, being so active, are among the most 
profitable, as also they lay well, and the surplus cockerels, or 
less good pullets, are as good eating as Partridges if dressed in 
the same way. 

‘He that never changed his opinions never corrected his 
errors,” says the old proverb. If that be true, and I think it 
is, I have scored-out one of my errors. I conclude with the 
sentiment, I might say toast, for it is teatime— Success to the 
Bantam fancy, and the Bantam fanciers.”—WitsHIrRE Rector. 


A SOUTH AMERICAN POULTRY FARM. 


I HAvE as yet to see the first statement giving the facts and 
figures of profitable poultry-raising on a large scale. Perhaps 
there might be some who have achieved successin this line, 
but we are led to believe that misfortunes-are more plentiful 
than the fortunes acquired from the manipulations of this par- 
ticular stock. I have tried my hand at the business, although 
on a limited scale, and can show figures giving mea profit of 
300 per cent. on the capital invested. There is no known 
reason why itcannot be managed in an extensive way, and with 
just as good results, provided it is entered into knowingly and 
understandingly. 

I propose to describe a poultry farm, where fowls are kept by 
the thousand, and whose proprietor counts his gains therefrom 
proportionately. Lt is situated in the southern extremity of 
Chili, South America, where the rainy season, of six months’ 
duration, is as detrimental to the well-being of all fowl kind 
as the rigours of our own winters, and where great care and 
skill is very essential to satisfactory results. i 

Senor Don San Fuentes commenced his operations in poultry 
with a stock of two hundred hens and eight cocks, to which he 
has added by natural increase from year to year, until now he 
has aboutsix thousand. Their range is unlimited, as his farm 
covers 3000 cudras, equal to 7500 acres. To every fifty hens 
and two covks is given a house of their own, of which there are 
six or seven hundred on the place. These are placed 200 feet 
apart each way, thus isolating one lot from the other. ‘ 

These houses are very cheap affairs, and are made by erecting 
two forked posts, S feet long, and distant from each other 
15 fect. On these rests the ridge pole. On both sides of the 
centre post, 10 feet distant, a trench is dug a foot in depth. 
Then small poles are placed for rafters, one end in the trench 
and the other tied to the ridge pole, 2 feet apart. Then another 
set of poles, tied crossways, also 2 feet equidistant, and the 
framework is complete. This is covered over with thatch, 
which is found in great abundance, and to be had for the cut- 
ting. The only framework about the house is the doors at the 
ends, both of which are 4 feet by 6, and contain each a window 


Juae 15, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


429 


pivoted in the centre of the sash, to be opened or shut as the 
requirements of ventilation demand. Hach house has its com- 
plement of twenty boxes for laying, placed undor the eaves, 
and partly concealed by bundles of straw. 

Near the family residence is a large building, devoted to the 
storing of grain and eggs; a nursery for sick hens; a long 
room for hatching, and another for slaughtering purposes. In 
the sick room are arranged a series of boxes, each large 
enough for the comfort and convenience of its solitary occu- 
pant, who is there placed and treated for its malady with as 
much care as if its value were dollars instead of cents, and with 
such skill that the ratio of deaths has been only 1 in 280. 

The sitting department is also provided with boxes, some 
three hundred in number. Here all are brought from their 
respective coops as soon as their incubating proponsity shows 
itself, and plied upon their quota of eggs. Food, water, and 
a large supply of sand and ashes, are provided, and the sitting 
hen not allowed to leave the room until she takes her young 
brood with her. 

_ The clutches are then ‘‘ doubled up ”—that is, two broods 
given to one hen, and the chickenless one sent back to her coop 
to resume her egg-laying. As soon as the young chicks are 
discarded by their mother they are taken to their future home, 
fifty in each lot, and the old ones back to their respective 
localities. 

The fowls are fed three times per day, and their diet so 
arranged as to always present a variety, although oats are their 
staple article of food, and always before them in unlimited 
quantity. To-day it will be Indian meal, made into a stiff 
dough and given hot; to-morrow, barley; next day, boiled 
potatoes, mashed and mixed with pork scraps and bran—corn 
broken in a coarse mill, and soon in rotation; adding from 
time to time a dead horse, or some other cheap and inexpensive 
animal food. Burned bones, pounded shells, and lime, are sup- 
plied in profusion. These, with what the fowls gather on their 
foraging expeditions, produce a wonderful supply of eggs. 

During the rainy season they are not allowed to leave the 
coop, except the day be exceedingly pleasant, and then only for 
a short time. They appear to bear their confinement remark- 
ably well, and with hardly any decrease in the quantity of eggs. 
While confined they have an extra allowance of animal food. 

The attendants requisite to the care of these 6000 fowls 
are one man and four boys. The houses are thoroughly cleaned 
once a-week, and the interiors whitewashed every three months. 
Every morning each lot of fowls undergo a careful inspec- 
tion, and anyone found moping or otherwise indisposed is 
immediately taken to the hospital and cared for; and seldom 
is it but that the indisposition is cured, and she takes her 
place back again as well asever. At evening the boys go the 
rounds to gather up the proceeds of the day’s labour, which will 
average two hundred dozen per day the year through. 

The prefits from one year’s business amounted to 11,000 dols. 
The sales are seventy-two thousand dozens of eggs, and nearly 
20,000 chickens and two-year-olds. Mr. San Fuentes expresses 
himself as being perfectly satisfied with the result obtained, 
and intends to double his stock each year, until every 200 feet 
of his extensive farm has its house of fifty tenents.—C. F. 
Pearce, Freetown, Mass—(Rural New Yorker.) 


THE OWL PIGEON. 


Most fanciers of Pigeons during some time have kept, and 
probably have derived an especial pleasure in breeding, this 
admirable little toy of the dovecote or aviary, for without a 
doubt it is one of the favourites ; and although these birds may 
not rank quite so high as his majesty ‘‘ King Carrier,” his 
serene highness the noble and towering Pouter, the richly- 
feathered and chaste little Almond, or the aristocratic and 
highly-esteemed Barb—still, for general character and figure, 
there are few varieties which excel these exquisite little frilled- 
chested favourites. 

Owls have many recommendations, and therefore have found, 
and still continue to find, much favour; for besides th2ir neat, 
compact, pretty form, and their almost unceasing activity, they 
are seldom ‘‘caught napping,” or seen to disadvantage ; their 
sprightly little rotund forms are generally on the stir, and 
they not only display their beauty of outline, but they show 
oi to unusual advantage, and they always make the most of 
their diminutive size by the ‘‘ airs and graces” in which Nature 
so frequently permits her pigmy creatures to indulge. Be it 
known to those who haye not already made the discovery, that 
this pretty Pigeon is a proud stuck-up little creature. The 


Carrier may extend his graceful neck to its utmost stretch, 
and thus look down upon most of his brethren; the Almond 
may proudly strut among his fellows, and boast of his gay 
attire; the Pouter may inflate his crescent-marked crop, and 
thus eclipse from view the smaller fry; or the glossy Barb, 
with massive head and ruby spectacles, may play his attractive 
part amongst a pleasing group of other rare beauties; but the 
gaiety in Pigeondom is not replete unless the vivacious little 
Owl is promenading there, for he has much to be proud of, and 
if there, is sure to make his presence known, strutting, flying, 
billing, cooing, prying all about, in and out, and back again 
directly ; with head thrown back he trips along apparently 
conscious of the important position which he holds in the 
Pigeon genus of which, it is said, he is the representative ‘‘ from 
Afrie’s burning clime.’’ However, whether in a show pen, an 
aviary, orin his peregrinations on the housetops, he is suffi- 
ciently acclimatised, and certainly thrives well in old England. 
He is gay and full of life—now saluting his partner with pro- 
found bows and Platonic assurances, and, like a true lover, not 
attempting to conceal from his love the ruffled state of his 
throbbing breast. He fully displays the frill or goffered front 
with which he is so finely bedecked; but to see him, perhaps, 
to the best advantage is at the time when he is dancing attend- 
ance around his.mate and running her to nest; he then, as 
with most other Pigeons, shows off to the greatest advantage. 

Owls, speaking generally, are of a strong and vigorous con- 
stitution, and they are remarkably active birds; they are also 
good breeders, and good flying birds too, for when allowed their 
liberty—the larger and more robust and hardy kinds especi- 
ally—they have proved that the homing faculty is well deve- 
loped, and that, whilst possessing great powers of flight, they 
are enabled to discover their homes from long distances. Of 
course if, like most of the valuable Pigeon tribe, it falls to 
their lot to be doomed to long incarceration within an aviary or 
Pigeon-loft, they soon lose that keen instinct so remarkable. 
in them; and such would be the case, too, with the more noted 
homing Pigeons were they subjected to similar imprisonment. 
However, just now is not the time to discuss the flying pro- 
perties of the Owl in detail, or we could adduce ample testi- 
mony of their capabilities as voyageurs, but these facts we pass 
by, as we wish to draw attention more particularly to their 
qualifications as show birds of perfect character. 

First, then, it is perhaps advisable to state that there is a 
division in the Owl family, yet to our minds the line of demar- 
cation appears to be so indistinct that we confess that confusion 
is too often the consequence of such severance, and it often 
leads to unpleasant results in adjudicating upon the merits of 
the two classes; for, as is well known, there are Hngiish Owls 
and foreign Owls, and the happy medium also, resulting from 
the admixture of the two recognised stocks, but (unfortunately 
for the judges) size chiefly constitutes the difference between 
the two families. The English breed are much the larger 
birds, but should possess all the good qualities of the imported 
stock, which birds unquestionably are far moxye attractive than 
their English brethren, for these, in comparison, appear to bea 
coarser and more hardy kind. It is not our desire, however, 
to raise up one standard by knocking down another, nor do we 
wish to exalt the merits of one variety above those of any 
other, for we admire them all, and must leave to our fellow 
fanciers the task of selection, and the propriety of discussing 
the wisdom of the decision to which we have alluded, whilst 
we pass on to notice the points of excellence of the Owl. 

Owls are of various colours, and amongst the most attractive 
and numerous varieties are Blues, Silvers, Whites, Blacks, 
Reds, and Yellows. Various interminglings of those enume- 
rated have resulted in strange and varied pieds, splashes, Blacks 
with white tails, and Whites with black tails, silver tails, blue 
tails, and other and multifarious freaks of nature too numerous 
to particularise, many of which may lay claim to great beauty, 
but not being of pure blood are not regarded as permanent 
varieties, consequently they simply bear the name of the stock 
from which they sprang. f : 

Owl Pigeons should be small birds, compact in form, short 
from the breast to the end of the tail. They should have nicely 
rounded heads, and a very short and curved beak, which should 
form a segment of a circle in continuance of the line of head. 
From near the end of the lower beak should fall, in nearly a 
straight line, a loosely-hanging feather-covered skin, or ‘‘ dew- 
lap,” terminating at its lower extremity in the gullet, from 
which should protrude evenly on either side a large and full- 
feathered frill or ruffle. This ornamental frontispiece should 
extend low down the breast and finish-off in a sort of rose or 


450 


radiation of feathers. The carriage of the bird must be erect, 
the breast very prominent, the neck rather short but well 
arched, wing-butts well defined, and across which the bird 
should be broad, and suddenly tapering at an acute angle, thus 
giving a marked wedge-shaped appearance. The legs free 
from feathers, not too long; the feet small, and the bearing 
chiefly upon the toes. The eyes in all thoge sorts enumerated 
should be of an orange-red colour, except the Whites, and 
their eyes should be dark, apparently all pupil, and known 
to fanciers as a ‘bull eye;” the fleshy lash small, even, and 
light-coloured. We have now given our views of the essential 
qualities of a perfect Owl. All the sub-varieties to be of value 
should answer to the foregoing general description, colour only 
constituting the difference between them. 

Blues should be true Blues, and not faded representations or 
go-between Blues and Silvers; they should be pure and uni- 
form in colour consistent with brightness; dingy Blues we 
object to. To use a common fancy phrase, we might say 
“powder, blue,”’ but as there are so many shades of powder 
blue, the term ‘seems out of place. It may be that such mis- 
applied phrase originated from the fact of Blues emitting a 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 15, 1871. 


bluish dust from their feathers; but if it is thus derived, it 
is equally without force or application, as all Pigeons when 
healthy should cast off a ‘‘ bloom,” or dust; so that, being com- 
mon to all kinds, has no special affinity to or identity with 
any one of them; therefore the term, like the bloom to which 
we have alluded, being a superfluity, should ke cast out. The 
term powder blue we do not like, but powdered blue is more 
expressive, and when used in describing the lighter-coloured 
Blues is not so inappropriate, as the necks and breasts of this 
kind really seem as though a white powder had been sprinkled 
thereon, and it is probable that powder blue, so often used, is 
simply a corruption of the long-adopted phrase, powdered blue. 
Well-matched birds of the latter kind are very attractive and 
uncommon in appearance, but the fancier must not confound 
them with the true Blues of uniform colour, as the two varieties 
are very different when placed in comparison with each other. 
Clear, pure, and uniform should be the colour throughout 
thighs, breast, back, and sides of wings; the latter, of course, 
must possess two black bars. The tail has also a band of black 
near to its extremity; the head and neck are of a darker hue, 


the neck richly lustrous with varied colours, which terminate 


in a line on the shoulders. 
of Blues. 

Silvers are almost colourless on their body, their necks only 
being slightly tinged at the lower extremity with semi-toned 
tints, but in harmony with their delicately-coloured feathers, 
the bars on the wings should be nearly black, clearly marked, 
and narrowly formed. A black band also should be upon their 
tail as in the Blue. 

Whites must be pure unspotted white with dark eyes. 

Blacks should be as black as possible, but as yet the jet 
black has not been obtained. These birds are too apt to come 
of a blue black; probably it may be the powder-blue making 
its way to the surface. Be this as it may, we should like to 
procure them more of a true black. 

Reds and Yellows must be of a pure colour throughout. 
Each of the latter kinds is very scarce; they are generally of 


These are the esteemed qualities 


a larger and much coarser kind; indeed, perfect, or we may 
gay even mediocre, specimens are seldom geen at our shows. 
They cannot successfully contest the palm against Blues, Whites, 
Silvers, and Blacks; but where numbers of meritorious speci- 
mens are congregated for prize competition, the high qualities 
of the exquisite little Whites are almost sure to lead to an 
award in their favour, for not only are they, as a rule, of 
superior head qualities, but they are generally smaller birds, 
which latter is an essential point, but this point is far too 
often looked for whilst greater and more important qualities 
are wholly ignored. 

Owls, we should have said, are good breeders, and feed and 
year their young well, and we advise those who have made 
such birds a study to still continue to do so, and whatever 
others they may add to their hobby, let some of the stock be 
Owls.—BiruincHam CoLUMBARIAN SociEry. 


VOYAGE AND ARRIVAL OF FEATHERED EMIGRANTS TO NEW ZEALAND. 


Tue Otago Witness gives an interesting account, by a fellow passen- 
ger of the feathered emigrants, of the arrangements made on board 


the Warrior Queen for their reception:—‘‘ The whole of the deck 
house, except that part appropriated to the ship’s galley, was,” he 


June 15, 1871. ] 


says, “fitted up for the purpose, and a prettier sight we never saw 
than when every cage contained a little songster, whose cheerful 
chirrup and gay plumage made a delightful accompaniment of sight 
and sound. A variety of improvements had been made in the con- 
struction of cages for conveying the partridges, which on former 
occasions had been mostly a failure. In their efforts to rise they 
generally destroyed themselves by knocking against the top of the 
box or cage, and to avoid such mishap on this occasion the boxes were 
padded with a lining of strong canvas stretched across the inside of 
each box about half an inch from the wooden top. A dark compart- 
ment was also made at one end of the box, so that the birds might have 
a kind of artificial cover, and it was curious to note how, upon the 
entrance of a person into the deck house, they would immediately dis- 
appear under this ‘cove,’ so that the cages all round had the appear- 
ance of being tenantless. This contrivance to suit their shyness, how- 
ever, preserved them in health and strength, and no fresh birds could 
possibly haye been in finer condition or plumage during the whole of 
the voyage than the partridges thus enclosed.” 

The commissariat demanded for these novel voyagers was both 
large and varied. It consisted, we are told, of 600 eggs, 5 barrels of 
flour, 2 barrels of pea-meal for German paste, 10 bushels of hemp- 
seed, 7 barrels of Canary seed, 6 bushels of wheat, 4 bushels of lin- 
seed, 2 bushels of rapeseed, 20 bales of compressed hay, 2 tons of sand, 
and 15 ewts. of carrots, besides many other little odds and ends to 
make up tempting dishes for songsters who showed signs of indisposi- 
tion on the journey. Mr. Bills (who accompanied his family, and was 
never weary in attending to their wants) also brought with hima stock 
of worms kept in bran, and now and then he threw in one of these 
dainties to a sick robin, with much the same air as a nurse gives a little 
delicacy to a patient, and the robin snapped up the tempting dainty with 
a satisfaction which showed how thoroughly he appreciated the attention. 
It is to be regretted that many of these interesting birds (owing to im- 
pare water it is supposed) died on the voyage. ‘ Perhaps,” says the 
fellow passenger, “‘ the most difficult and taxing part of Mr. Bills’s 
task was the preparation of food for his large family. The number of 
dishes and mixtures rivalled those supplied by the cook for the cuddy. 
Larks, linnets, canaries, robins, and partridges, each required separate 
mixtures, varied to suit the changes in temperature and tastes of the 
particular songsters. Now and then a little green meat was required 
for a sick bird, and a blade or two of verdure was raised by sowing 
Canary or hemp in some crevice or corner of the deck-house. Some- 
times a bird or two managed to get out of a cage and escape to the 
rigging. Generally the efforts made to catch such were unsuccessful, 
and during the night they would drop from the rigging into the sea 
through sheer exhaustion. On one occasion, however, a valuable little 
goldfinch was caught by aship’s boy. The bird was perched up in the 
rigging of the main mast, where it remained tili roosting time. It 
being a beautiful moonlight evening and in the tropics, it was easily 
observed, and the boy went carefully up the rigging and skilfully 
caught hold of it while asleep, and depositing it in his bosom de- 
scended without causing it the slightest injury. The passage through 
the tropics tried the birds. Up to crossing the line very few were lost, 
but at this period of the journey a kind of diarrhea (owing to some 
of the drinking water having been put in new pine casks) broke out 
amongst them, and carried off a great number of the small birds. 

“Very cheerful (he adds) it was to hear their sweet notes trilling 
out on the wide ocean. Often in the night have we listened to the 
tender whistle of the blackbird, aud in the early morn the song of the 
lark has greeted our waking moments, so that with such surroundings, 
and giving the reins to the faculty of imagination, we easily transferred 
ourselves to the borders of some peaceful homestead.” 


So much for the incidents of the voyage. It was, as may be supposed, 
a proud and happy moment for Mr. Bills when he landed at Otago 
with the greater proportion of the little creatures he had been com- 
missioned to bring from the woods and hills of Sussex; and a very 
pleasant moment was it for all parties, not excepting the birds them: 
selves, when the moment came for restoring them to their natural state 
of liberty, though not to their native woods and dales. The scene is 
thus described :— 


“On the beautiful slope above the Botanical Garden, about nine in 
the morning, the wax-eyes had already congregated in great numbers, 
as if they were aware that something unusual was about to happen. 
They were not long kept in suspense, for suddenly a cage door opened 
and a flight of goldfinches streamed into the air, all strong on the wing, 
and keeping together; they circled round once or twice, and finally 
settled amongst the trees in the lower end of the valley. Then came 
a cage of fluttering chaflinches, and the wax-eyes are once more 
disturbed. Four months ago they chirped amongst the young oak 
trees of Stanmer Park, and others amongst their fellow voyagers lost 
their liberty on Lord Chichester’s domain. But their freedom 
is regained, and they have selected a manuka with dense foliage 
as a temporary abode. A flock of twites, however, soon contended 
with them for the possession of the tree. These pretty little mountain 
linnets were taken on the Brighton coast, where they happened to be 
01 a visit from their usual home in the far-north Hebrides. What 
strong-flighted bird is this, each of which has a little cage to itself? 
This is the gardeners’ friend, the hedge sparrow, and Mr. Bills tells us 
that, if placed together, they would fight to the death. These birds, 
eighty in number, were trapped by a few market gardeners—as a rule, 
they cannot be persuaded to snare their insect-eating friend—and 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


431 


brought.in by them to Brighton in the early morning, along with their 
fruit and vegetables. By this time these birds have found their way 
into many a garden in town. The redpoles, the serle buntings, and 
the reed sparrows soon joined their companions. The blackbirds and 
thrushes expected, no doubt, that it was their turn next; but if they 
thought so, they were doomed to disappointment, as they must wait 
patiently for a few days until their wings are flighted. As we left the 
spot we observed our little friends restlessly surveying their new quar- 
ters, and giving us the full benefit of their pent-up song. Later in the 
day Mr. Bills released the yellow-hammers amongst the bushes at 
Caversham, and left the skylarks, soaring above the Green Island 
fields.” 

And here we leave them, trusting that they will ‘increase and 
multiply’ in the new world, as much as, or more, than the race of un- 
feathered bipeds to whose delight they contribute so largely! 


BEE-KEEPING FOR COTTAGERS. 


I wave not had an opportunity of seeing your paper for 
several weeks, or I should have replied to the somewhat mild 
stricture passed upon me by ‘‘ SHEPHERDSWELL”’ in reference 
to the brimstone torch. 

Allow me to say, in the first place, I was perfectly aware that 
by advocating the use of torches I should bring down upon my 
head the anathemas of several deservedly respected opponents 
of the practice; at the same time I have always looked upon 
the practice with considerable qualms of conscience, in fact 
with a similar feeling to that experienced when seeing an 
animal slaughtered for food; but until I read the letter appear- 
ing in your columns on the 11th ultimo, I was not aware of any 
better plan for keeping a stock of hives within reasonable 
bounds (likely to be within the cottager’s means) than that 
which I recommended ; and although I know Mr. Pettitt, I had 
no idea it was his practice to take honey for my neighbours in 
the manner mentioned by your correspondent (reserving to 
himself the bees), but such being the case, I am free to admit 
that it is by far the better plan, supposing the bees are not 
starved in the following winter, and I should be happy if he 
would take the honey of my surplus stock in the same 
manner. 

With regard to the criticism of the Rev. C. Cotton, I think it 
is something to have raised a ghost, and I am sure I shall be 
delighted if my letter shall have been the means of inducing 
that gentleman to make his exit from the spirit world, and not 
only rejoice but edify us by his practical communications upon 
this interesting subject.—W. J., Shepherdswell. 


ARTIFICIAL SWARMS—INTRODUCING 
LIGURIAN QUEENS. 


I am doubtful of my being able to find the queens of two 
black stocks in bar-frame hives to which I want to introduce 
two Ligurian queens. Could I proceed as if to make artificial 
swarms by taking a bar from the parent hive, placing it in an 
empty hive on the stand of the parent hive, as described in ‘‘ Bee- 
keeping for the Many,” but instead of leaving the bees to rear 
a queen, at the same time introduce the Ligurian queen in the 
queen cage? Oc, would it be better to drive the bees from the 
parent hive to make an artificial swarm, then place it on the 
stand of another black stock, and introduce the Ligurian queen 
in that way ?—W. L. 


[Your best plan of proceeding will probably be to take out 
and look over every comb of the stock-hive until you discover 
the queen. Having done so, place the comb with the queen 
in a box near at hand. Now, choose one of the other combs 
well-filled with sealed brood appearing far advanced, which 
you put into a nucleus-box or a spare hive. If you can do go, 
add a frame containing empty worker-comb on either side of 
the brood-comb. Take two or three other combs and brush off 
the bees into the nucleus-box, endeavouring to secure a8 many 
young bees as possible. Close the nucleus-box with a cover of 
perforated zinc, and the entrance with the same, and remove 
the box within-doors until the evening. Put back the comb 
with the queen into the old stock, moving-up the other combs 
towards the centre, giving an empty frame at the side, leaving 
it on the original stand. - The following day most, if rot all, of 
the old bees which have previously taken wing will Jeave the 
nucleus which has been placed on a stand at some distance 
from the stock, to which they will return. The young bees 
never having taken flight will remain, and those slso which 
are being hatched-out. You had better examine the nucleus 
in the forenoon, and if you find there are very few bees you 


432 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 15, 1871. 


must again take one or more brood-combs and shake off the 
bees, taking the same precautions to avoid giving it the old 
queen. Hither this or the following day you can introduce the 
Ligurian queen in 2 queen-cage, taking care to destroy royal 
cells if any have been commenced. Yon will find some useful 
hints in an article in reply to a correspondent on the same 
subject which appeared in our issue of June Ist. 

Unless you are a sufficiently advanced manipulator to be 
able to discover the queen, all operations for the making of 
artificial swarms are attended with so much risk of failure, 
that we should advise you not to attempt them. ] 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


DIARRHEA IN Fowss (S. S.).—There is no objection to your feeding 
unless it is the steamed wheat or maize. There is nothing in the dietary 
to cause the looseness. Impure water will often do it. Mix one-third 
powdered chalk with the ground oats, and let the water in their vessels 
be strongly impregnated with camphor. Look closely round theirhaunts, 
and see if there is anything of a poisonous nature lying about. For the 
disease you complain of to continue, is death to the fowls, but there is no 
reason why it should continue. It is essential that all droppings under 
the perches and about the places they frequent should be carefully swept 
up. Cold winds and sudden changes of temperature cause such dis- 
orders. 


Crynamon Cocutxs (Amatewr).—The feathers you enclose are froma 
Silver Cinnamon hen, and are the right colours. 


InorteD Ducks (Yorkshire Subseriber).—So far as we can judge from 
your-description, you have bought Muscovy Ducks. One thing only is 
against it, and that is the size; the smallest are larger than wild Ducks. 
You are, perhaps, somewhat deceived on this point. If you are not, and 
if they are really no larger than wild Ducks, they are very curious, and 
probably valuable. If theyare Muscovy Ducks their value is above 5s. 
each. 


Haneures Cocss’ Conss Purrre (S. I. R.).—It is more than probable 
the cocks are suffering from cold easterly winds, and from frosty morn- 
ings. It is not a satisfactory symptom. The treatment will be a table- 
spoonful of castor oil to each, followed by Baily's pills, or two pills of 
camphor the size of garden peas, every night. We should think the 
latter will be sufficient’ to cure them. The oil must be repeated at the 
end of four days if there is no improvement. 

Stroup SHow.—The third prize for Créve-Cceurs was won by Mr. J.J. 
Malden, Biggleswade. 


G, W. Cooprr (E. C.).—As you very properly have set the law in motion 
aoemnee tiny it would not be fair to make any comments. Let us know 
e result. 


PicEoN Concours (W. H. B.).—If the proposal is carried into effect it 
will be advertised; at present we know no more about it. 


Hieu-chass Prezons Layrnc Cuear Eaes (H. T. G.).—This has been 
a usual complaint among high-class Pigeons and Canaries this spring, no 
doubt owing tothe cold. In our own loft we have not yet raised one bird, 
but look for better success when the warmer weather comes. 

Rearmnc Bracecaps (S. N.).—‘ Bechstein,” p. 375, Bohn’s edition, 
speaks of Blackcaps being reared from the nest on bread and milk. I 
have never kept one, but a friend who is well up in soft-billed birds says, 
finely-scraped lean beef mixed with its bulk of yolk of hard-boiled egg, 
fresh every morning, is a regimen “against the world” for Nightingales 
and birds ofthat class in captivity—W. A. BLAKSTON. 


Youne Carriers DYING IN THE Nest (UW. Green).—We know of no 
semedy, but would recommend you to cross with birds of another 
strain. 

Two HEN CANARIES WITH ONE Cock (Poplar).—The eggs will be fer- 
tile, or ought to be. You will be able to determine for yourself by this 
time. If fertile, they will now be opaque on being held up to the light; 
if clear and transparent, throw them away. It is just possible they may 
be so, as the cock’s death may have resulted from ill health, in which 
case the probabilities are in favour of the eggs being empty. The hens 
will bring up the young ones if there beany. Procure a new cock assoon 
as possible ; introduce him for a short time at intervals, and permanently, 
as soon as the young ones can be removed, or you will have the next 
nest unfertile. It would almost be advisable to give all the young 


ones to one hen, and work the two hens as advised in my “ Guide.”— 
W. A. BLAESTON. 


Canary Picrine Itsetr (H. S.).—I should advise a thorough wash. 
Lather well with soap and warm water applied with a piece of soft linen 
’ rag; then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, and rough-dry with a 
hot soft rag. Place itin a cage, with a piece of flannel at the bottom, in 
front of the fire well exposed to the heat; it willsoon dry. If you hesi- 
tate to attempt this, which requires somewhat careful manipulation, place 
as much lukewarm water in a hand-basin as will almost float the bird, 
just allowing it to touch the bottom with its feet. Cover with a handker- 
chief, to confine the bird and prevent the water being splashed about too 
much, and allow it to half-drown itself; then rough-dry as directed, and 
resuscitate, Give plenty of green food and free access to a cold-water 
bath. Some birds seem averse to bathing. Remove their drinking water 
tom nightfall till the middle of the next day, and try them.—W. A: 
LAKSTON. 


T. H. KmsHaw.—In answer to Mr. Norman’s inquiry, we have received 
several letters, all stating that ‘‘T. H. K.” had applied for poultry and 
Pigeons, but was heard no more from, as prepayment was required. 


RaBEiT ScaB-NoseD (A Subscriber)—The scab on the nose of your 
Rabbit is easily cured by applying a lotion of tobacco water prepared 
from half an ounce of “Limerick roll” soaked in a teacupfal of hot 
water, and when cold applied to the parts affected, avoiding the eye.as 
much as possible, for the pain is acute. Another remedy is effectual :— 
Mix a little whale oil and sulphur into a thin paste and apply every other 


day—say three times. Eyen once will do if the complaint is taken in | Pheasants...... 


time. Rabbits are liable to this scurf, or “mange,” if not kept clean 
and well ventilated, or if fed upon too much dry food. A little sulphur 
sprinkled once a-week on the top of the bran in the feeding dish isa 
preventive. in 

BrEEs In A Cumtyey (Bee).—We have had no experience in removing 
bees and combs from chimneys or flues. Perhaps some of our correspon- 
dents could give advice as to the best mode of effecting your object. 

Harp Water (K. M. H.).—For drinking it is preferable to soft water. 
For household purposes, washing, boiling, &c., a little carbonate of soda 
added removes the hardness. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 
CAMDEN SquaRE, LonDoN. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° S’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Ty THE Dar. 
| Radiation 


Date. 9 am. 


Hygrome- | pirec-| Temp. |Shade Tem-| Tempera- | A 
D- | ture. 
ter. _|tion of|of Sofl| Pore ll eeeaces nes é 
Wind. | at 1 ft. i In ; On 
Max. | Min.| sun. | grass 
deg. deg.| deg.| deg.| In. 
i N. | 548 | 45.2 |1002 | 423 | — 
50.4 N. + 46.0 | S83 | 45.2 = 
S11 Ni 5 458 | 93.6 | 45.6 | 0.013 
55.2 E. 2 49.4 }123.6 | 49.1 | 0.280 
52.1 E. 0 49.0 |113.2 | 50.5 = 
50.8 N.E. 3 47.0 |1124 | 498 _ 
54.6 E. 0 47.2 | 92.9 | 50.8 |'0140 
52.1 54.3 47.1 pe 47.6 | 0.433 
REMARKS. 


7th.—Dull and cold all the morning, rather brighter in the evening. 
Sth.—Cold and dull till 5 por. then fine till 8 Pat, but dull in the 
evening. ui 
9th.—Dull till latter part of afternoon, dull with rain in evening. 
10th.—Rather dull till near noon, then fine, but heavy rain at 3.49 Pat 
fine evening. 
11th.—Dnill till noon, then very fine, evening dull. 
12th.—A very similar day, except that there was a thick mist at 9 P.2t. 
13th.—Dull in the morning, rain began early in the afternoon, and con- 
tinued to night, change of wind and warmer. ? 
A remarkably cold week, with steady barometer and northerly winds. 
—G. J. Symons, 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Jotne lt. 

THE improvement we noticed in our last has not been so well sup= 
ported as we expected, doubtless owing to the ungenial weather which 
prevailed. All descriptions of hothouse produce are quite equal to the 
demand, and prices a trifle lower. Foreign goods, both fruit and vege- 
tables, are largely supplied. 


FRUIT. 
s.d. s..d 8. d.-s. d 
3 0to6 0 | Mulberries. Ib. 0 O0to0 0 
2 0 38 O/| Nectarines doz.10 0 20 0 
- 1 0 2 0} Oranges. ¥10 60 10 0 
00 O G| Peaches doz.12 0 24 0 
0 0 O OQ} Pears, ki doz. 00 00 
00 O 0; dessert doz. 00 00 
4 0 § 0} Pine Apples. Ib. 6 0 10 0 
0 0 2 O|} Plums.. gsieve 00 OC8 
2 0 2 6} Quinces doz. 00 00 
Gooseberries ..... .quart 0 6 O 8} Raspberries.. --lb 00 08 
Grapes, Hothouse.... lb. 5 0 10 Q| Strawberries ........ Ib. 8 0 60 
Lemons.... -- 2100 6 0 10 0} Walnuts... O00 le 0 
Melons,.... 40 80 ditto..... 1o 320 
VEGETABLES. 
5.d. 8s. a 2 s.d. 8. d 
4 Oto6 0| Leeks............ bunch 0 4to0 6 
40 8 0} Lettuce . «ee d0z. (0)'3) 1250 
2 0 $3 0} Mushrooms..... . pottle 10 26 
00 O 0} Mustard&Cress..punnet 0 2 00 
2 0 8 O| Onions bushel 7 6 10 0 
cneee ORS?) 246 pickling.. -quart 00 0 0 
Brussels Sprouts..tsieve 0 0 0 0} Parsley... sieve 8 0 60 
Cabbage...... -- doz 10 2 O} Parsnips 09 10 
i 00 00 e 1o 80 
06410 20 40 
60 10 0 80 40 
16 20 o6 10 
80 60 04 06 
06410 00600 
00 00 oo006€08 0 
20 00 O16 O09 
0 8 O 0} Spinach. 26 00 
0 8 0 0} Tomatoes. --. doz, 2.0 S$ @ 
08 00 ips .......... bunch 0 9 1 @ 
8 0 6 O| VegetableMarrows..doz. 00 0 0 


POULTRY MARKET.—JoneE 4. 

THe supply of poultry now increases daily, and prices suffer in comse- 
quence. Buyers rejoice, sellers fret. Larger prices than common haye 
been made, bunt only in consequence of scarcity, and the enlarged 
arrivals will bring us to a fair average. 


8. d. 5. Gd. 
Large Fowls ....-... 4 Oto4 6 | Pigeons .scssecscsaee 
Smaller ditto -- 8 0 8 6 | Rabbits .. 
Chickens . 2 0 2 6G | Wild ditto 
Ducklings 2 0° 2 46 Hares 
Goslings 5 6 6 6 | Gninea Fowl 
0 0 © O } Grouse 


ee 


—_—-- wee 


June 22, 1871. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 433 
WEEKLY CALENDAR. 
Day | Da [Wawreraeat ras en an MToon’s | Clock | Day 
rae A Ee ag pera- | Rain in Sun Sun Moon Moon | Moon’s nen eu 
Roan woke JUNE 22—28, 1871. ture near London. 8 years.) Rises. | Sets. | Rises. | Sets Age. Sie oe 
Day. ight.|Mean. | Days. |m. h.!m. h.!m. h.| m. Days. | m. 8. 
22 | TH | Spalding Horticultural Show. | 73.6 | 48.8 | 612 | 17 | 44af3 | 18af8 | 43 af7 | 22af11 5 | 1 84) 173 
23 | F Cambridge Easter Term ends. 72.7 | 47.1 | 59.9 17 |45 3/19 8/52 8 | 44 11} 6 1 47 | 174 
24 1S Mripsummer Day. 74.1 | 489 | 615 | 15 | 46 8/19 $8} 6 10! morn. | 7 2 0/175 | 
25 | SUN | 8 SuNDAY AFTER TRINITY. [8.30 P.ar. | 73.0 | 49.1 | 61.1 | 20 46 3/19 8/20 11] 4 0 Cc | 2 18) 176 
26 | M Meeting of Royal Geographical Society, | 74.3 | 49.2 | 61.7 20 46 8/18 8] after. | 24 0 9 2 26 | 177 
27 Tu Royal Horticultural Society’s Nottingham | 72.8 | 48.2 | 60.5 | 15 46 8/18 8/55 142 O 10 2 38 | 178 
28 WwW CoronaTIon Day. [ Show opens. | 73.7 | 49.1 61.4 | 16 Abie Si 18h (85/018) (3h) e1es 1L O51 | 179 
| | | | 
From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 735°, and its night tem- 
ae on The greatest heat was 93°, on the 27th, 1826; and the lowest cold 34°, on the 28th, 1844. The greatest fall of rain was 
8) inch. 


EARTHING-UP POTATOES AND OTHER 


CROPS. 


O earth-up or not to earth-up” is a question 
which has been often before the gardening 
world, and may be so again, as it is difficult 
to dismiss an opinion once formed. It is not 
unlikely that the advocates for earthing-up, 
and those for not earthing-up, may both 
right as regards their respective localities. 
The subject calls for some remarks, and all 
the more, because at page 399 the Editors 
condemn the practice, while “ R. F.,” at page 

407, approves of it. ‘“ Wyesrvz,” at the first-mentioned 
page, may be regarded as neutral, for he asks the reason 
why Potatoes are earthed-up, and then gives a valid rea- 
son—namely, to prevent the tubers becoming green. He 
seems, however, to doubt whether that is a sufficient reason 
for the practice. He also mentions one or two other bene- 
fits resulting from earthing-up, and at the same time points 
out its evils. This is so far fair, but the propriety of earth- 
ing- up is left in doubt. 

In entering on this question I avow myself at once an 
advocate for earthing-up Potatoes, as well as all the Cab- 
bage tribe that have to stand the winter, excepting in 
certain situations; and one of my reasons is, that by 
throwing the ground into ridges a greater amount of surface 
is exposed to the action of the atmosphere, especially in 
winter ; while the earthing-up of Potatoes, as ‘ WyEsIDE” 
admits, prevents that greening of the tubers which spoils 
them for the table, and it often happens the finest are at 
the surface. Now forits evils. ““WyrstpE” compares earth- 
ing-up to placing an umbrella round the plant's waist. I 
grant this comparison is well founded when the earthing- 
up is imperfect, which, I am sorry to say, is often the case, 
but the system ought not to be condemned on that account; 
nay, if earthing is well done it meets the very requirement 
which “ Wrssmr” puts against it—viz., it coaxes the rain 
down the stems to the collar of the plant instead of throw- 
ing it off. It is now going on for half a century since a 
mode of earthing-up Potatoes was explained to me, and 
Ihave not seen a better. It was to work up the earth in 
such a way as to leave a sort of slight furrow where the 
Potatoes grew, and not to close the earth tightly around 
them in the ridge-fashion of which your correspondent 
complains. I fear instructions of this kind in matters of 
detail are not so often given as they were at the time to 
which I have referred: hence the imperfect way in which 
this and some other operations are performed. I may also 
observe that in earthing-up Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, 
and the like late in summer to stand the winter the ridge 
was made as pointed as it could be, the object being to 
protect the stem from being shaken by the wind, and to 
give it assistance. There are but few cases in which the 
omission of earthing-up is likely to be beneficial, but there 
may be some, and it is only fair to mention them. 

Where Potatoes are grown on a dry, shallow, sandy or 
gravelly soil, and in a neighbourhood where but little rain 
falls during the growing period, it may be advisable not to 

No. 534—Von. XX., New Series, 


| has been very roughly done. 


earth them up; on the contrary, if the ground could be 
scratched over, and a covering of short grass or other litter 
were put over it to prevent evaporation, I believe much ° 
good would be effected; but as this cannot well be done 
on a large scale, it is necessary to depend on slight hoeings, 
so as to break up the surface-crust after heavy rains until 


| the Potato hanlm has so far grown as to shade the ground, 
| when the purpose will be accomplished. 
be | 


In very shallow 
soils of the kinds just referred to, and in dry years, the crop 
is seldom good, although in a showery season it is often 
a fair average, and the mere fact of earthing-up or not 
makes but little difference in the result. Where the soil 
is so shallow as hardly to allow sufficient depth for the 
roots after earthing-up it would, perhaps, be better not to 
resort to it; but in the case of all retentive soils I would 
on all occasions advise it, as the action of the sun and air 
on rough unpulverised clods must be beneficial to future 
crops as well as to that which is growing. It often happens 
that on such a soil there may not haye been time to com- 
pletely break up these clods before the Potatoes were 
planted, hence the utility of after-tillage, and the ridge is 
better than the flat system for accomplishing that purpose. 

If earthing-up Potatoes were detrimental to the field 
crops, I should think there are close-inspecting and in- 
quiring minds amongst the many hundreds who are en- 
gaged in their culture, and that if it were not considered 
beneficial it would long ago have been abandoned. I have 
never seen any serious fracture of the roots caused by the 
plough, such as ‘‘ WyEsiDE”’ complains of, unless the work 
Now and then the roots of 
a Potato, perhaps out of the row a little, may come in the 
way of the ploughshare, but the generality certainly do 
not by the time they are earthed-up. From the almost 
universal adoption of the practice it would be rash to con- 
demn it, especially as it is of such long standing, without 
some just reason for doing so; and as “ R. F.” affirms that 
a better crop follows earthing-up than would otherwise be 
the case, it ought not to be too hastily condemned by those 
who have not had proofs of an adverse character. For my 
own part I have adopted the earthing-up system so gene- 
rally, that Iam not prepared to speak with confidence om 
the merits of the non-earthing plan, but I believe in the 
former. If, however, I were asked where it might with 
advantage be omitted I would say, Only in the cases which 
I have already mentioned ; in all others I am its advocate, 
stipulating, however, that instead of forming a pointed 
ridge enclosing the stem of the Potato, along the top a 
slight gutter should run, which would allow all rain falling 
on the stem to run down to the roots; and the space in the 
centre between the rows being rendered very small, no 
great harm is done by the uncovering of the roots. It will 
also often happen that by the time the roots reach that 
point—say 15 inches from the place they started from—the 
top will have attained sufficient dimensions to afford the 
necessary shade, and no harm is done, but, on the contrary, 
a benefit is gained.—J. Roxson. 


Taye made several experiments, but to give a satisfactory 
explanation as regards the lessons of experience is a doubtful 
No. 118".—Vor. XLV., Orp SERIEs. 


A34 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 22, 1871. 


matter.” However, I have always succeeded better with earth- 
ing than without. Then as to the why of the difference, I am 
led by fact to the conclusion, that the hoeing and earthing 
should be done as soon as possible after the plants are up, 
otherwise the damage done to them will be irreparable—at 
least, such has been my experience. It appears to me that by 
hoeing, the soil becomes too much disturbed from the collar of 
the plant, and, if it is not returned almost immediately, the 
young fibres suffer from exposure to such an extent that it is 
hopeless to look for more than a failing crop. 

The mode of cultivation which I have adopted after a great 
number of experiments, and which with me appears to answer 
well, is as follows:—As soon as the crop of the current year 
is taken, and the whole collected into heaps, the ground is 
thinly worked over and raked, to allow the seeds of weeds which 
by any means may have found their way to the ground, to 
strike root. At a later period in the autumn the ground is 
deeply dug, and it is allowed to lie in that state until the time of 
planting. I then take two garden lines and draw them parallel 
. to each other, and 2 feet 6 inches apart, except for Ashtops. 
I commence at the end of the first with a spade, which I 
drive down to the full depth of its blade, and by a pressure 
on the handle move the soil to the depth of 10 or more inches. 
I then withdraw the spade to something like half that depth 
before taking out what remains upon it. In this manner I 
take out the first trench, and by working backwards leave about 
4 or 5 inches of loose soil at the bottom of the trench. The 
soil from the first trench is taken by a barrow to the other end 
of the plot to be used for the last row. The first trench being 
now opened, manure is put into it, and by means of a garden 
fork is pointed into the loose soil at the bottom of the trench, 
and that having been done with care the seed Potatoes have 
what I think something like a comfortable bed to rest upon. 
They are planted, the soil from the next trench is put care- 
fully over them, and the same is done throughout. The plot 
when finished is flat, and the newly-worked ground is the only 
means by which the row can be traced. 

As regards the second, and I may say the controverted part 
of the work, I perform it in this way—first, I carefully hoe 
over the whole of the ground, choosing dry weather, and as 
soon as the weeds have flagged so that they will not strike 
fresh root, I take the spade and repeat the same process be- 
tween the rows as that adopted at planting time; only in this 
ease I have to take out two spits in width instead of one as at 
the first operation, and I give each row of plants its spadeful 
of fresh earth newly dug from the ground, and in a moist con- 
dition. This being done by a proper turn of the hand so as to 
raise the lower leaves of the plants, and the spade being brought 
out edgewise upwards, a finish is given to the work which can 
be equalled by no other plan. Besides, it will be seen that by 
this means the whole of the ground becomes spring as well as 
autumn-dug, and that several inches of loose soil are left be- 
tween the ridges for the fibres to work into.—S7rarBecn. 


[We shall very readily insert reports of well-conducted ex- 
periments upon this subj ct, which has now been sufficiently 
discussed.—Eps ] 


THE FRUITING OF SEEDLING TREES. 


Eyeryone knows how very long is the time between sowing 
the seed of a fruit tree and getting fruit from it, so that few 
men after fifty years of life have the courage to propagate seed- 
lings. I believe the time may be shortened most materially, 
and that a very few words will explain the correct way of grow- 
ing seedling fruit trees. I have been led to the idea by the 
difficulty I have had in getting some grafted trees into bearing, 
and by observing that precisely the same sort of growth occurred 
in some trees that had originated in suckers from old ungrafted 
trees. In almost all these cases, whether Apple, Pear, Plum, 
Peach, or Orange, the wood was thorny ; and though I cut back 
and used the cuttings for scions, all had the same thorny and 
fruitless character. 

However, in experimenting upon a set of seedling Peaches, 
some were allowed to grow wild, some steadily pinched-in, some 
cut-in closely and pinched, and some trained as single rods; all 
these last fruited as soon as the shoot got beyond the thorny 
part of the stem. It then occurred to me that it was only 
necessary to get beyond this part of the growth as quickly as 
possible. This is done by encouraging the growth of the young 
seedling to a single upright shoot, and then usirg the point 
of that shoot as a scion on a strong stock; then the shoot from 
this scion is to be again trained at full length, and its point 


again used asa scion. In this way a shoot may be got having 
buds 20 feet or more from the root in a couple of years. The 
old seedling trees may thus be grafted with the scions from 
themselves, but it would be better to graft them in their third 
year with a scion taken from an intermediate grafted tree. It 
may be necessary to stop the leader to be used as a scion by 
the end of August, to ensure its ripening, but this will not 
seriously affect its nature. 

I can speak from experience of the success of the process in 
the case of Peaches and Oranges; and some Plums, Pears, and 
Apples I have not yet tried. But I may also mention that I 
have in this way got over the difficulty with thorny Pear trees. 

The trees that I could not get to fruit had been grafted with 
scions taken off too near the root, the sorts being new ones. 
By selecting the scion near the root, or far from it, a grafted 
tree would be produced that would bear only after a long in- 
terval or quickly, according to the gardener’s will. At any 
rate, what has been said shows the importance of choosing the 
points of leading shoots as the scions for forming dwarf trees. 

I should very much prefer haying some independent experi- 
ments tried to trusting entirely to my own, and therefore hope 
some one or more of the Royal Horticultural Society will take 
the matter up, and in the meantime any discussion this state- 
ment may provoke will be of service to horticultural science.— 
W. Kinestey. 


WHAT IS BROCCOLI ?—No. 2. 


Ir would be tedious to enumerate the many varieties of 
Broccoli now in cultivation; I shall therefore only name those 
which i have found the best. 

Snow’s Superb Winter White.—This is a very superior kind, 
and closely allied to the Cauliflower; in fact, I very much 
question whether it is a true Broccoli, as a sowing made after 
midsummer will head in the following summer—indeed, if 
sown in August and protected like Cauliflowers it succeeds 
them. I am convinced, though I have included it in a list of 
Broccoli, that it is a late form of Caulifiower. It is a most ex- 
cellent sort when it can be procured true, is of dwarf habit, 
having broad leaves with short petioles. The leaves are kept 
closely about the head, so that it is self-protecting. The heads 
are large, compact, white, and equal to the best Cauliflower. 
It has one fault, however, and that is, it is not hardy. Sow 
early in April, and again at the beginning of May. The plants 
from the first sowing should be planted in a warm sheltered 
spot, and they will commence heading in December. Those 
from the second sowing will come in during January and Febru- 
ary if the weather be mild, 

Osborn’s Winter White.—This is also a near relative of Cauli- 
flower, and, like Snow’s, comes into use in succession according 
to the sowings. It is very distinct and dwarf; leaves pale 
green, broad, with short petioles. The heads are large, close, 
and white, and are well protected by the leaves. It is more 
hardy than Snow’s, but none of the early-heading kinds of 
Broccoli will withstand the severity of a winter like that of 
1870-71. Sow early in March for heading in December, and 
again early in May for heading in January and February. 

*Backhouse’s Winter White Protecting. —This is, undoubtedly, 
a. true Broccoli, hardier than either Snow’s or Osborn’s, and 
earlier than either by ten days or a fortnight. The plant is 
dwarf; leaves large, closely set, entirely protecting the head, 
which is large, white, compact, and in flavour equal to Cauli- 
flower. It is the best and earliest of all the true kinds of 
Broccoli. Sow early in March for heading in December, and 
again in the second week of April. 

The three preceding are the best which I have grown for 
heading in December, January, February, and sometimes March. 

Valta.—A kind not now in some catalogues. Dwarf, com- 
pact-growing ; heads medium-sized, white, andclose. It comes 
into use early in March, and is a good old sort, and hardy. 
Sow at the beginning of April. This kind is very difficult to 
procure true. It is the type of what a Broccoli should be as 
regards the plant, having a short stem. There is said to be an 
improved kind of this. 

*Veitch’s Spring White.—This is evidently a select stock of 
the old Spring White. Leaves large; habit dwarf; heads 
medium-sized, white, and compact. It heads early in March, 
and is the best of early spring kinds. Sow early in April. 

*Dileock’s Bride—Habit dwarf; leaves broad, hardy ; heads 
large, compact, white. It is a very fine sort, heading at the 
close of March and beginning of April. Sow at the beginning 
of April. 

Penzance Early White.—Habit tall ; leayes narrow and long ; 


a 


June 22, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGH GARDENER. 


435 


heads medium-sized, compact, and white. With me it will not 
stand an ordinary winter. In a warm situation I have no 
doubt it is excellent. In use early in March, sometimes in 
February. Sow at the beginning of April. 

*Mammoth.—Habit dwarf, the stem being short ; heads very 
large and compact; plant very hardy. In use in April and 
May. Sow early in April. There is now an improved kind of 
this hardy Broccoli, said to be equally hardy, and surpassing it 
in size and quality. It is named Elletson’s Surprise. 

Melwville’s Dalmeny May.—Habit dwarf, hardy: heads large, 
compact, white. It comes into use in May, and when true— 
but it is difficult to procure it so—it is a capital hardy kind. 
Sow at the beginning of April. 

*Wilcove Late White-——Habit dwarf; leaves closely set; 
heads large, very fine, even, firm, and white, coming in at the 
close of May, earlier or later according to the season. It is not 
yery hardy, but is for quality the finest late Broccoli in culti- 
vation. Messrs. Veitch’s Wilcove Improved is an excellent 
true stock of this most desirable kind, Its only fault is its not 
being sufficiently hardy for cold situations, though it succeeds 
in all but very severe winters. Sow in April. 

*Lauder’s Superb Late Goschen.—Habit dwarf; leaves broad, 
closely set, and well protecting the head, which is very large, 
close, and firm, white and excellent. It is hardy, not having 
been injured by last winter’s frost; commences to head about 
the middle of May, and continues until the middle of June. 
It is the hardiest and best of all the late Broccolies, being 
little if at all inferior to Cauliflower. It deserves extensive cul- 
tivation. Llintend to plant under a north wall or on a north 
border, and hope to have heads late in June, which is about 
the time I can have Caulifiowers in these northern parts under 
the best of treatment. Sow in April. 

There are many other kinds of Broccoli, but I have named 
those which I have found best. If there are any better I shall 
be glad to hear of them. 

The times of sowing are given in noticing the different varie- 
ties, but much must be allowed for seasons. As a ruleI sow 
the spring kinds about the second week of April; but if the 
weather be then cold and the ground very wet, I consider it 
preferable to wait a few daysrather than sow under these circum- 
stances. This sowing, late as it may appear, is in every way 
better than very early sowing, as the plants from the latter 
very often become stunted, and do not make a growth equal to 
plants sown later and grown without check. Besides, if the 
weather should be genial, the plants from early sowings make 
a very strong growth, attain a considerable length of stem, and 
they seldom survive a seyere winter. This season, owing to 
the late spring, I did not sow until the beginning of May. In 
an ordinary spring I sow about the 10th of April. 

The soil for the seed beds should be light and moderately rich, 
and choice should be made of @ piece of ground not for some 
time occupied by any of the Cabbage tribe. It should also be 
open. ‘The seed should be sown rather thinly and covered 
lightly with fine soil, raking even. Water will be necessary, but 
it need not be given if the beds were watered before sowing. 
There is generally enough moisture in the soil for these plants 
in a young state.—G. ABBEY. 


THE CUCUMBER DISEASE. 


Ir is with great diffidence that I approach this subject, see- 
ing that so many excellent growers have failed in finding a 
remedy for the disease, and, moreover, have anticipated and 
repudiated all probable suggestions. But, as I have a triumph 
to record, l hope it will prove not without interest to your 
readers, and that it may assist in solving this knotty question. 
I have, as far as I am concerned, no great experience of the 
disease, nor dol wish to have, although several years ago it 
made its appearance in a house of which I hadthecharge. This 
took place towards the end of the season, consequently no 
great efforts were made to get rid of the evil, and in the following 
year I was not there to use the preventives I thought neces- 
sary. My opinion at the time as to the cause was that there 
was too much moisture both in the soil and atmosphere, and 
insufficient ventilation, especially in the morning. Iam aware 
that the contrary rule to this has been acted upon and failed 
asa remedy, but I have not yet seen it proved to my satis- 
faction that those which I have named have not been the first 
causes. 

It has been stated that this disease is similar to the Potato 
disease, and I believe at least that both are caused by the 

- game agency. We all know that the Potato disease is most 


prevalent in wet soils and in wet summers. Both the Potato 
and Cucumber are what may be termed succulent plants, and 
both by their roots and leayes absorb a great amount of mois- 
ture. We must, however, also bear in mind that they exhale 
a great amount of vapour, and unless there is sufficient dry- 
ness and ventilation to carry it off they must re-absorb it, and, 
asin the case of animals, disease will be the result. As Cu- 
cumbers flourish in heat and moisture, I believe these condi- 
tions may be, and cften are, carried too far without due regard 
to ventilation, and in my own opinion they are the cause of the 
disease, and no after-treatment, however careful, can stop it, 
unless, indeed, like the cattle plague, it be stamped out. 

I suppose the question that all wish to come to is, How to 
stamp it out when it has set in? I cannot illustrate that 
better than by reciting a case which has come under my own 
observation, where, I believe, the disease has been thoroughly 
stamped out. A friend of mine, Mr. Black, gardener to W. 
Clough, Esq., Clifton House, York, on entering the gardens about 
eighteen months ago, found the disease prevailed very much 
in the Cucumber houses. Daring last winter he had every 
particle of soil and dust removed; every rafter and all the 
walls and floors well scraped, washed clean, painted, 
whitewashed, and strongly fumigated with sulphur. The 
plants were started gently, not at all strongly fed nor excited 
into rank growth at first; and now he has a house of Tele- 
graph Cucumbers that is a sight worth seeing, they being in 
beautiful health, and exhibiting not the least sign of disease. 
It may be urged that it is too soon to form a decision; the 
disease may yet appear, but I do not think it will. I believe 
he has conquered it. If it should prove otherwise I shall be 
most happy to correct my hasty conclusion. 

The question suggests itself to me, Why cannot this disease 
be got rid of ? I believe that it is so infectious that the germs 
may lurk about in every nook and cranny, and where Cucum- 
bers have to be grown all the year round, summer and winter, 
it would be impossible to escape it. But let there be an entire 
cessation for a time to stamp it out. Do any of those who are 
baffled by the disease mean to assert that if they had a new 
house away from the scene of their former disasters, fresh soil, 
aud fresh plants, the disease would follow them? It would be 
curious indeed if it did. Well, as they may not be able to 
afford that proceeding, the best plan would be to renovate the 
old structures, paint them well outside and inside; scour, 
scrape, and whitewash, and well fumigate with sulphur. I 
think then, like my friend Mr. Black, they might reasonably 
expect a prevention of the disease.—A YoRKEY. 


ARAUCARIA IMBRICATA AT BICTON. 


A zox has been sent to the office of Tux Journat or Hortt- 
CULTURE in hopes that some account of the contents may be of 
interest to your readers. It will be perceived that one of the 
specimens is an example of the male catkins and female cones 
of Araucaria imbricata on the same branch. The tree from 
which the branch was taken has still about thirty catkins and 
twenty-five cones upon it. The present is not the first time I 
have observed a similar phenomenon, having witnessed both 
sexes on one tree in the Harl of Shannon’s pinetum at Castle 
Martyr, near Cork, in the spring of 1867, when I concluded 
that the tree is not dicecious, as has been generally supposed, 
but is moncecious, and only requires time and proper treatment 
to develope its true character. 

In the former of those instances the subsoil was removed 
from under the roots of the tree in the previous autumn, and 
proper drainage and soil substituted; in the latter case the 
trees in the Araucaria avenue at Bicton were heavily top- 
dyessed with suitable soil last autumn. Soon afterwards 
twenty of them showed an immense number of catkins, and 
throughout the winter and spring months they have been truly 
beautiful, the trees being equally studded over with pale lemon- 
coloured catkins in clusters of from two to six. One of the 
clusters sent can ouly give a slight idea of the trees when seen 
properly furnished in their winter garb, and now, when the 
catkins have changed to pale cinnamon, the contrast is no less 
striking and beautifa’. 

I hope, 2s time goes on, to see other trees producing the sexes 
in company. Meanwhile it would prove interesting to readers 
of Tue Journat or Horricunrure to hear of trees in other 
places which may be producing catkins and cones together. Aft 
present there are here sixteen trees which are producing cones 
only, each to the number of from 20 to 160, one tree only car- 
rying tho latter number. It is strange that all thesegcones 


436 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


{ June 22, 1871. 


have appeared dwing the pa:t spring, and it remains to be 
proved whether cones which appear in spring equal in fertility 
those which show in the autumn. I have always preferred 
to see cones in the autumn months, such cones being more 
likely to produce perfect seeds in the autumn following. The 
others I have generally found unsatisfactory. Last spring 
having been dry and very favourable to the dispersion of pollen, 
I hope to have a harvest of fertile cones; and should your 
readers feel interested in the subject, I may at a future period 
make known the result.—R. Bresiz, Bicton Gardens. 


[Many will like to know the result.—Ebs. ] 


ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 
JUNE 21st, 


Comrne just before the great country show at Nottingham, coming 
also just after a series of great shows, it could hardly be expected that 
this would have proved a very aitractive Exhibition. The subjects 
invited were few, the amount offered in prizes was certainly small, and 
it might have been expected that the Exhibition would likewise have 
been small. Not so, however, for there was for a minor Show a 
rather large array of subjects, though in none of the classes was the 
competition very strong. 

Classes 1 and 2 were for six Zonal Pelargoniums, the former being 
for amateurs, the latter for nurserymen. Amongst amateurs, Mr. J. 
Catlin, gardener to Mrs. Lermitte, East End, Finchley, was first with 
plants from 3} to 4 feet in diameter, trained on circular wire trellises. 
The plants were in excellent bloom, and consisted of The Bride, blush 
white; The Clipper, Oliver, and Lord Derby, various shades of 
scarlet; Rose Rendatler, pink; and Monsieur Rendatler, salmon. 
Mr. Filce, gardener to J. Statter, Esq., Clapham Park, was second 
with smaller plants, of which Excellent, Highgate Rival, and Chief- 
tain were well grown and bloomed, and, not being much tied out, pre- 
sented a better appearance than plants less naturally trained. Mr. 
Weston, gardener to D. Martineau, Esq., Clapham Park, was third. 
Mr. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart., M.P., also exhibited. 
In the nurserymen’s class there was no exhibitor. In that for six 
double-flowered Pelargoniums, Messrs. Carter took the first prize with 
exceedingly well-grown plants in splendid bloom. The varieties were 
Wilhelm Pfitzer, Victor Lemoine, and Ville de Nancy, scarlet ; Marie 
Lemoine, Madame Rudolf Abel, and Madame Michel Buchner, rose. 

In the amateurs’ Class 4, for six Variegated Zonal Pelargoniums, 
Mr. Goddard, gardener to H. Little, Esq., Cambridge Villa, Twick- 
enham, took the place of honour with excellent compactly-grown ex- 
amples of Lady Cullum, Lucy Grieve, and Sophia Cusack, Golden 
Tricolors; Charming Bride, Impératrice Eugénie, and Italia Unita, 
Silver Tricolors. The second and third prizes went respectively to 
Mr. Welsh, gardener to D. Rutter, Esq., Hillingdon, and Mr. R. 
Goodwin, gardener to Mr. Bird, Drayton Green, Ealing. In the nur- 
serymen’s class Messrs. F. & A. Smith, of Dulwich, were first with 
beautifully-grown plants of Prince of Wales, Lady Cullum, Rev. 
Joshua Dix, Sir R. Napier, Sophia Cusack, and Miss Burdett Coutts. 
Second came Messrs. E. G. Henderson & Son, of St. John’s Wood, 
with fine plants of Lass o’ Gowrie, Peter Grieve, Mrs. Grieve, and 
Charming Bride. Mr. Stevens, Ealing, was third with large well- 
furnished plants. Mr. T. Petridge, nurseryman, Uxkridge, sent half 
a dozen plants trained to single stems, 15 inches high, and forming 
flat heads 18 inches to 2 feet in diameter. These, when better furnished 
with leaves, would be effective if placed well below the eye; at present 
they cannot be said to. be so. Mr. Townsend, gardener to J. C. 
Mappin, Esq., Clapham Park, sent half a dozen Gold and Bronze 
varieties. 

In Fushsias, Mr. James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., Isleworth, 
took the lead with plants between 3 and 4 feet high, and in good bloom, 
but with a great preponderance of light kinds. Starlight, with white 
sepals, and Mrs. Ballantine, with a double white corolla, were two of 
the best. Mr. Weston, who took the second prize, had very well- 
bloomed plants, about 4} feet high, of Enoch Arden and Conspicua. 
Mr. Townsend was third. The only exhibition in the nurserymen’s 
class came from Messrs. Wright, Turner Road, Lee, and consisted of 
plants about 3 feet high, and blooming very freely. The best twelve 
in 8-inch pots came from Mr. James; the plants, from 2 to 3 feet high, 
were in excellent bloom, more especially Starlight, Daniel Lambert, 
Avalanche, Gipsy Girl, and Killiecrankie. Mr. Weston was second. 
On the whole, the Fuchsias were not equal to those we have seen in 
previous years. 

Of Palms Mr. Williams, of Holloway, sent noble specimens of 
Latania borboniea, Chamerops Fortuni, Phcenix sylvestris, Sabal 
Blackburniana, Areca lutescens, Chamewrops humilis, Thrinax elegans, 
and Juba spectabilis. Mr. Williams had,the first prize, and the 
second went to Mr. Burley, Hereford Road, Bayswater, who had also 
some very fine specimens of Chamerops, Corypha australis, Livistonia, 
&e. From Mr. Bull, who was third, came Areca Baueri; Euterpe 
edulis, a very graceful Palm; Latania rubra, conspicuous by its red 
leafstalks and red-edged and ribbed leaves; Areca lutescens; Ptycho- 
sperma regale, &c. An equal first prize was given to Mr. J. Linden, of 
Brussels, whose exhibition arrived late, but was of especial merit both 
for the choice character and the beauty of bis specimens. Among 


them were noble Phenicophoriums, viridifolium being of a dark green, 
Calamus lanatus with white downy stems, Cocos elegantissima with 
pale green foliage and singularly elegant, Demonorops cinnamomea, 
Corypha nivea, and Welfia regia. In the amateurs’ class Mr. G. 
Wheeler had a first prize. 

For baskets of plants arranged for effect, and not exceeding 3 feet 
in diameter, Miss Williams, Upper Holloway, was first with a Dracena 
in the centre surrounded by Palms, Ferns, Marantas, &c., and edged 
with Isolepis, Ferns, &c. The second prize went to Mr. G. Wheeler, 
gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart., M.P. Mr. Macintosh, Hammer- 
smith, also sent a basket. 

In the miscellaneous class Mr. Denning exhibited a fine group of 
Orchids, taking the first prize. Among these were seyeral beautiful 
kinds of Cattleya, Aérides, Saccolabiums, Vanda tricolor and Bate- 
manni, the latter a very fine plant; Cypripedium Veitchii with three 
large flowers; Dendrobium Bensoniz, snow white, orange at the base 
of the lip, with two dark crimson blotches; this had three fine spikes, 
and had a magnificent appearance ; Thunia Bensonie# ; Epidendrum 
vitellinum majus, very fine ; its kindred in colour, Lelia cinuabarina ; 
the new Cypripedium niveum; Lycaste Deppei; a fine mass of Den- 
drobium Parishii; Barkeria spectabilis, and Dendrochilum filiforme, 
the last two also very fine. ‘The second prize was awarded to Mr. 
Bull also fora group of Orchids, among which were good specimens 
of Aérides Lobbi and odoratum, Cypripedium barbatum, Lelia pur- 
purata, Vanda tricolor, and Thunia Bensonie. These were backed 
with a very graceful Encephalartos villosus and several Palms. The 
third prize went to Mr. Williams for a remarkably fine collection of 
Palms, Yuccas, Cycads, Ferns, and other fine-foliaged plants. Among 
them Todea superba was extremely fine. So, too, was Hymenophyl- 
lum demissum ; and Anthurium Scherzerianum, though a little passed, 
was still a splendid specimen. 

Messrs. Lee, of Hammersmith, sent a large group of fine-foliaged 
and flowering plants, including several fine Palms. From Mr. Mac- 
intosh, Hammersmith, came a nice collection of Antirrhinums. 

Mr. William Paul, Waltham Cross, sent his splendid new Zonal 
Pelargoniums—viz., Diana, Sir John Moore, Ianthe, Iago, Welling- 
ton, and Haidée. Some of these were perfectly dazzling. Mr. W. 
Paul also exhibited a basket of Waltham Bride, white-variegated, with 
pure white flowers. Messrs. E. G. Henderson & Son contributed a 
numerous collection of Tricolor Pelargoniums, also one of bedding 
Petunias, and a basket of Pelargonium elegantissimum, a small yarie- 
gated kind of the Oak-leaved race. Messrs. Carter & Co., of High 
Holborn, sent a basket of the pretty feather-like Trichinium Manglesu, 
and Messrs. Dick Radclyffe & Co. a neatly-filled Fern case. 


Frourr Commirres.—G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. 
Messrs. Barr & Sugden sent a collection of eleven varieties of Lettuce, 
which the Committee resolyed into five varieties—Covent Garden, 
Long Stander, William Robinson, Early Yellow, and White Dutch, 
the latter being the old White Cabbage, were the same. The Swede’s 
Head and Red-edged Victoria were the same. The Cloche, Tom 
Thumb, and Stone Tennisball were all the old Tennisball. All the 
Year Round was a darker green, but otherwise similar to White Cab- 
bage, and White Tennisball was smaller and firmer than White Dutch. 
Mr. James Plumbridge, gardener to Henry Vallance, Esq., Farnham 
Royal, Bucks, sent a basket of Sir Joseph Paxton Strawberry, remark- 
able for size and beauty. They were grown in the open ground with- 


out glass from first year’s plants planted in November, 1870. They were 


unanimously awarded a special certificate. Mr. J. Douglas, gardener 
to F. N. Whitbourn, Esq., Loxford Hall, Essex, sent a dish of Pre- 
sident Wilder Strawberry, a large, handsome, bright scarlet variety, 
with a high aroma of the Hautbois. It was awarded a special certifi- 
eate. Mr. J. Douglas also sent a seedling hybrid Melon, which was 
not sufficiently ripe. Mr. Tillery, of Welbeck, sent dishes of large 
and handsome fruit of Dr. Hogg and Lucas Strawberries. 


Frorat Commirter.—Mr. J. Fraser in the chair. There was on 
this occasion but a small number of novelties as compared with meet- 
ings earlier in the season. Mr. C. Turner, of Slough, had a first-class 
certificate for seedling Pink Godfrey, a pretty purple-laced variety ; 
Mr. Turner also exhibited several other seedlings, of which Alice hada 
very chaste appearance. Mr. Nye, gardener to E. Foster, Hsq., Clewer 
Manor, sent several new Show Pelargoniums. Pompey, with dark maroon 
top petals edged with deep rose, white throat, and orange scarlet and 
crimson lower petals, had a first-class certificate; as also Prelate, 
dark top, edged with rose, white throat, lower petals crimson, vein d 
with dark crimson. From the same exhibitor came also Cesar, Ros'= 
crucian, and Achievement. Mr. George, gardener to Miss Nicho’~ 
son, Putney Heath, sent several seedling Zonal Pelargoniums; and 
Mr. Petridge, nurseryman, Uxbridge, Blushing Bride, white-varie- 
gated, with blush white flowers, of vigorous good habit of growth ; this 
receiyed a second-class certificate. The same exhibitor also sent a 
collection of cut Antirrhinums and Golden Tricolor Pelargoniums, of 
which Salamander and Brilliant were good and bright-coloured. Mr. 
Knight, florist, Hailsham, exhibited climbing Rose Princess Louise 
Victoria, rose, edged with blush, said to be of robust growth and to 
flower in long succession. The flowers were not large, but evidently 
freely produced. Messrs. F. & A. Smith sent a number of new 
Tricolor Pelargoniums, and Mr. Hekford, gardener to the Harl of 
Radnor, Coleshill, Silyer Tricolor Countess of Radnor. Some of 
these would have taken awards in former seasons, but it is difficult to 


a 


dune 22, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


437 


surpass the varieties we already have. Mr. Eckford likewise sent 
several promising seedling Verbenas; and Mr. Cripps, Tunbridge 
Wells, Lobelia Purity, a very fine pure white variety. 

Messrs. Fisher, Holmes, & Co., Sheffield, had a first-class certifi- 
eate for Thymus citriodorus aureo-marginatus, with the leaves dis- 
tinctly edged with yellow, and which will, doubtless, prove useful as 
an edging plant. From Mr. Cannell, Woolwich, came Zonal Pelar- 
gonium Master Christine, which had before received a first-class cer- 
tificate, and a stand of Verbenas. Mr. Bragg, Slough, sent stands of 
fancy Pansies and Pinks. G. F. Wilson, Esq., Weybridge, exhibited 
a yery fine stand of Lilies, among which were several varieties of 
i. Thunbergianum, L. canadense flavum, L. umbellatum, &c. This 
gentleman is well known as an enthusiastic cultivator of the Lily 
tribe; and that he has a rich collection, and can grow it well, was 
abundantly testified by his specimens. For these a special certifi- 
cate was given. Messrs. Barr & Sugden, of Covent Garden, also ex- 
hibited cut blooms of a number of Lilies and of Spanish Irises. 
From Mr. R. Parker, Tooting, came two varieties of Lilium fulgens; 
and the same exhibitor was awarded a first-class certificate for 
Passiflora vitifolia, or Tacsonia Buchanani, a_brilliant-coloured 
Passion-flower. 

Mr. Anderson, gardener to T. Dawson, Esq., Meadow Bank, near 
Glasgow, had a special certificate for magnificent cut specimens of 
Aérides Veitchii and Odontoglossum Alexandre, the flowers of the 
Jatter of unusual size aud beauty. Mr. Wilson, gardener to W. 
Marshall, Esq., received a second-class certificate for Phajus Mar- 
shallie with pure white flowers and a lemon-coloured lip. From 
Messrs. Veitch came cut specimens of Bougainvillea speciosa, grown 
in a cool conservatory along with Camellias, and quite equal in 
Seauty of floral leaves to those from warmer structures. 


THE GARDENERS’ ROYAL BENEVOLENT 
INSTITUTION. 


Tue twenty-eighth anniversary festival of this Institution was held 
at the London Tavern, Bishopsgate Street, on Taesday last, and was 
numerously attended. H.S.H. Prince Teck presided, and after the 
asual loyal and patriotic toasts had been enthusiastically received, he 
‘gave the toast of the evening—viz., ‘‘ Continued Success and Pro- 
sperity to the Institution.” In doing so he urged its claims for in- 
ereased support, and while so many of the leading men in horticul- 
ture were connected with it, both as subscribers and in its management, 
at was not likely any aid bestowed would be thrown away. One great 
feature was, that the pensioners (numbering sixty), were allowed to 
live in any part of the kingdom; and another, the preference given by 
the rules to subscribers over non-subscribers, so that a man reaps 
what he has sown. 

Mr. Wrench, the Treasurer, with whose name the toast was coupled, 
thanked the Prince for the manner in which he had advocated the 
claims of the Institution, and was not surprised that the Prince should 
feel himself a gardener, for there was rarely a horticultural exhibition 
at which he was not to be seen accompanied by the Princess. He had 
also, as usual, to return thanks to those good friends who had so 
liberally contributed to the decoration of the room—Messrs. Veitch, 
‘Lee, Turner, and Williams, and he wished he could have added the 
names of some contributors of fruit, the paucity of which he con- 
sidered a disgrace. Before he sat down he had to mention that he 
had received a cheque for £50, accompanied with the following letter 
from Dr. Hogg :— 

Some time ago I undertook, after consulting a few friends, to raise a 
subscription for a portrait of Mr. Rivers, of Sawbridgeworth, as a recog- 
nition of the efforts he has made during a long life to advance the art of 
horticulture. Although, by desire of Mr. Rivers, no special efforts were 
used, and no direct application was made to anyone, a sum was raised 
which proved more than sufficient for the object intended. 

“The portrait has been secured and handed over to the Trustees of the 
Lindley Library, at South Kensington, where it may now be seen sus- 
‘pended in the Council Hall of the Royal Horticultural Society. 

“TJ have a balance remaining of £50, which I have proposed to Mr. 
Rivers to add to the funded stock of the Gardeners’ Benevolent Institu- 


tion, and I have now the pleasure, with his consent, to hand youa cheque 
for that amount. 

“The only condition which accompanies this gift is, that a special 
paragraph be printed in all the annual statements of the Institution, 
Setting forth the purpose of the gift as a testimony to Mr. Rivers. 

“‘T trust that this may be the precursor of many such contributions to 
the funds of the Garderers’ Benevolent Institution; and that they wko 
swish to honour those who are worthy of honour will not think their testi- 
monial the less honoured because it has been given in aid of the comforts 
of their needy and suffering brethren.” 


The next toast was the health of the Chairman and that of Her 
Royal Highness the Princess Mary, the proposer remarking that eyer 
since His Highness had come to England he had identified himself 
with horticulture, and now as President of the Royal Botanic, and 
Vice-President of the Royal Horticultural Society, he was still more 
closely connected with it. With regard to the Princess Mary, they 
‘mew that she not only took a great interest in gardening, but was 
better versed in its science than many of themselves. The Rey. Mr. 
Rogers in a humourous speech proposed ‘‘ The Royal Horticultural 
and Botanic Societies,’ associated with the names of Mr. Bateman 
and Sir Walter Stirling, who each returned thanks. ‘‘ The Secretary,” 


and ‘‘The Ladies,” having been given, the proceedings terminated, 
Prince Teck before departing closely examining the plants with which 
the room was tastefully decorated. 

We understand that the total amount subscribed at the dinner was 
between £400 and £450. 

As usual at these meetings, the Secretary placed the representatives 
of the press at the far end of the room, where it was impossible to hear 
the speeches from the platform. 


SEEDLING GERANIUMS IN THE OPEN 
ATR. 


Tue following from the north of Liverpool may, I think, be 
a novelty, and will therefore deserve a corner in your interest- 
ing Journal. In digging over a bed planted last year with 
Geraniums I met with about a dozen seedling Geraniums, 
growing vigorously, all having their second pair of leaves, 
some zonal-marked, aud others plain. I have removed some 
to the greenhouse, and a few remain where the seeds first 
dropped. Here will be some strong constitutions for the 
far north (?)—L. Roscorua. 


GARDENS FOR COTTAGERS. s 


We have lately had brought to our notice a very useful 
little book, written by the Rey. G. Huntington, Rector of 
Tenby, entitled “‘Amusements and Healthy Recreations for 
the People ;” from it we extract the following :— 

‘‘T can say that, from my own observation, few things haye 
done more good than the plan of allotting small portions of 
ground to working men, to be cultivated by them in their 
leisure hours. I once heard it objected by a churlish farmer, 
that if you give your labourers a piece of ground to till on their 
own account, they would reserve their energies for this object, 
and neglect their master’s work. But the very contrary was 
found to be the case, for the best cultivated gardens belonged 
to the most laborious and conscientious labourers. In the 
town of Wigan, allotment grounds were assigned by two mill- 
owners, deservedly respected for the interest which they have 
always taken in the welfare of their operatives, and I believe 
that Iam justified in stating that the results have been such 
as to satisfy the most sanguine hopes of these benevolent 
men. 

“Tn a village in the East Riding of Yorkshire, the tenants 
to whom this boon had been granted, subscribed for and pre- 
sented to their landlord a silver snuff-box, in token of their 
gratitude. I would respectfully suggest to all landowners, and 
employers of labour and capital, the expediency of adopting 
the allotment system wherever practicable; and I would urge 
it on the double ground that spade husbandry will improve the 
land itself, as much as the simple and inexpensive recreation 
of gardening will benefit the morals of the people. To towns- 
men the benefits are incalculable. No one who does not live 
amid the smoke and din of a large town can estimate the plea- 
sure which a few flowers are capable of conferring, nor the 
influence which this taste has in rendering coarser pursuits 
distasteful. Many a time has a bunch of flowers brought a 
measure of happiness to a bed-ridden sufferer; many a poor 
seamstress, debilitated by late hours and a confined room, has 
found her sole pleasure in attending to the few little plants 
which somehow continue to live on the little balcony out- 
side her window, in spite of the smoke, and fog, and malaria 
of the city. Many a time, as I can testify, has the flower 
garden kept the father of a family from the village ale- 

ouse. 

“Tt may be objected that gardening is too laborious to be 
considered a recreation. ‘Possibly it may be so to an agricul- 
tural labourer; but it would not, I think, be thought so by a 
shoemaker, or by anyone whose occupation is sedentary. 

“To other pleasing incidents I may allude, although Iam 
scarcely at liberty to mention names. I know of more than 
one gentleman’s mansion where the produce of the green- 
house is devoted, year by year, to the purpose of decorating 
town churches. In an ‘ out-of-the-way’ village in Lancashire, 
flower beds are regularly cultivated by young factory girls, who 
rise at four or five on Haster-day morning to adorn the church 
with the fairest, and sweetest, and choicest flowers they can 
produce. Again, I have seen village maidens welcome a happy 
young bride by strewing her way to church with flowers, as if 
to symbolise their good wishes, that flowers and not thorns, 
happiness and not cares, might be her portion. And who has 


438 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


not noticed the carefully-attended grave, strewed with fresh 
flowers day by day, by some loving wife or sister, and planted 
with choicest shrubs? as though, to use the words of Keble, 
the mourners would Le 
‘ Gathering from every loss and grief 
Hope of new spring and endless home.’ 

“You all know that this has been done by our Queen ever 
since her great loss; and I believe I am right in saying that 
Her Majesty places a fresh wreath on the Prince Consort’s 
tomb every anniversary of his birth-day, wedding-day, and day 
of his death.” 


FRUITING OF LONICERA AUREO-RETICULATA. 


Tue following additions to your memoranda in regard to the 
flowering of this beautiful-foliaged climber have reference to 
its growth in more northern localities than any of those 
mentioned in your last two numbers. A pillar-trained plant 
bloomed in 1867 in the garden of John Russel, Heq., at May- 
field, Falkirk, and a plant grown by my sister on the south- 
east front of a house at Brodley, Carse of Gowrie, has flowered 
in each of the last four seasons. Some of these flowers have 
been succeeded by ripened berries, and I have three seedling 
plants reared from those of 1868, none of which have any 
reticulated markings or ciher symptoms of variegation, their 
leaves being ellof a uniform green. The parent plant of these, 
which grows on the rich, strong, clayey soil for which the Carse 
of Gowrie is proverbial, has a much more vigorous habit, and is 
also more distinctly or richly reticulated than any I have seen 
on lighter and drier soils.—Wuitu1am Gornriz, Rait Lodge, York 
Road, Trinity, Edinburgh. 


FRUIT GROWING COMMERCIALLY. 
(Continued from page 423.) 

THe Prum.—Certainly none of our other hardy fruits present 
So great a diversity in colour, size, flavour, and appearance as 
the Plum. From the small sweet Damson upwards to the 
largest yellow or dark-coloured Plum, all grades of size and 
colour are represented; but there is some uncertainty in the 
bearing qualities of the finer sorts; thus in general the 
commoner ones will be found the most profitable, but the in- 
tending planter ought to ponder well before he embarks too 
extensively in planting Damsons, as the number of trees of this 
fruit has been multiplied so many times in the last few years 

_that itis possible Damsons, as an article of profit, may have 
seen their best days. But we will dismiss this part of the sub- 
ject, and as the character of different soils has been gone into 
while treating on the Apple, I may here say that although I 
have advised the Apple to be planted on the ragstone district, 
I would suggest the sandstone for the Plum; and some of those 
deep friable loams that are often met with in valleys or at the 
base of hills, plentifully interspersed with stones, are suitable 
sites for a Plum orchard, and I am not sure but now and then 
a good soil overlying clay might do pretty well; but avoid all 
shallow soils and also damp ones; and as shelter and other con- 
ditions, in which climate bears so extensive a part, have to be 
considered as well, we will dismiss this matter, and speak of 
these requirements to an orchard’s doing well hereafter. At 
the same time I may say that some excellent plantations of 
Plums are met with now and then on soils overlying the rag, 
but I should call these exceptions, and not the rule in the 
matter. 

Prars.—This fruit is not generally so productive as the Apple 
and Plum, as the finer kinds of Pears do not always bear well 
as ordinary orchard trees; the best, perhaps, for market pur- 
poses being the early kinds, and they usually bear best also, 
but as each district has its peculiar kinds, which practice has 
proved to be best adapted to that district, I will not attempt to 
give advice in this matter, but may say that in general the 
Pear likes a drier soil and situation than the Apple and 
Plum, and the tree roots deeper. But it must not be taken as 
® mountain tree; on the contrary, it requires shelter more 
than either of those named, and does best in dry situations 
sloping to the west, where the effect of the early morning sun 
after a frost in spring is less disastrous to the blossom ; but the 
principal requirement insisted upon is dryness at the root, with 
plenty of depth of soil, not too highly manured, for although 
the latter may increase the growth of the tree, it is rot always 
favourable to its fruitfulness. 

Tue Coerry.—Unlike most of our other hardy fruits, this 
does not boast of a British origin, but is said to haye been 


[ dune 22, 187%. 


imported from the Asiatic side of the Black Sea, whence the 
Apricot also came. It has, however, been sufficiently natural- 
ised with us as to be regarded as quite hardy, so far as enduring 
winter frost is concerned, but its bloom and early shoots are 
especially liable to damage by the late spring frosts we so often 
have, and one or two nights, or even one alone, is sufficient to 
blight the hopes of the expectant grower. A dry soil, but not a 
shallow one, seems to suit it best, and shelter from the direc- 
tion in which cold winds may be expected is of great import 
ance. Perhaps the best site for a Cherry orchard is one slop- 
ing to the west, as the sun is somewhat later in shining on 
the frost-stiffened blooms at the end of April or first few days 
in May, when we so often have ‘“‘anipper.” Imay here observe 
that I do not recommend such a site for all kinds of fruits, 
especially Apples, for, however beneficial it may be at blooming 
time, there almost invariably happens to be a high wind from 
the S.W. some time early in September, which does much 
harm to the fruit crop that is so exposed to its influence. But 
as the Cherries are usually gathered long before this time, no 
damage is done. The roots of the Cherry are also impatient 
of injury, and but little pruning of the top is advisable. It is, 
therefore, better not to till a Cherry orchard, but to sow it with 
grass seeds. It is also advisable to have this fruit only, in 
order that the number of trees together may be worth the 
expense of keeping a man to scare away the birds when the 
fruit is ripe. The character of the soil has, perhaps, more te 
do with the success of the Cherry than with that of any other 
fruit, and damp soils are unfit for it, while on dry, and other- 
wise suitable situations, the Cherry tree attains as great a size 
and lives as long as, or even longer than any of our other hardy 
fruits, and the oldest varieties we have seem not to be afflicted 
with constitutional debility, as some favourite kinds of Apples, 
Pears, and Plums. Mayduke Cherries still thrive vigorously, 
while Ribston Pippin Apples and Green Gage Plums are rarely 
met with in a healthy state. But the great drawback to Cherry 
culture is, as stated, the danger of our lata spring frosts injur- 
ing, nay, even destroying, the expanded blooms, and rendering 
it hopeless to look for a crop; a portion may perhaps escape, 
but it is only one season in five or six that is a good one for 
Cherries. 

GoosEBERRIEs.—The very indifferent positions often assigned 
to this fruit hardly give it that fair chance to do well which it 
deserves. Crowded underneath the spreading branches of larger 
trees, it has but a poor chance to do well, yet it succeeds even 
there. I am not sure but a plantation entirely of this fruit 
would pay as well as any; at all events, where a large extent 
of orchard is contemplated, a portion ought to be Gooseberries. 
They come in earlier in the season than any fruit, and give em- 
ployment where that is wanted, besides which Gooseberries will 
grow on ground not so well adapted for Plums and other fruits. 
We often enough see good fruit produced on stiff retentive 
soils, and although wet ones cannot be called favourable, a 
moist atmosphere is certainly so; for the north-west of Eng- 
land, say Lancashire, and Scotland, produce better Gooseberries 
than Kent, although I am not so sure the crop is always so 
heavy, but believe it is. Two great drawbacks to the cultiva- 
tion of this fruit are the injuries caused by small birds to the 
swelling buds in February, and now and then the serious attacks 
of caterpillar. There seems to be something difficult to account 
forin both these visitations; both being capricious and not easily 
arrested ; the first evil being all accomplished in two or three 
days, and the latter often making its appearance all over a 
plantation at once, when the attack is a serious one. At times 
there is not a caterpillar to be met with, while in some seasons 
their attack is prolonged late into the summer, fluctuating 
between none at all and an almost universal attack. I may 
here mention that an old-fashioned cottagers’ remedy, which 
I have been told by one who practised it for some forty years or 
more, and who asserted it never failed, is to scatter soot around 
the collar and stem in winter or spring, the idea being that the 
caustic properties of the soot were fatal to the larva of the cater- 
pillar that might be deposited there, but the instructions were 
never to omit a winter’s dressing. How far the return of fruit 
for market will repay this must be left for the grower to find 
out, but the remedy, or rather preventive, is a practicable one, 
and not by any means expensive. - : : 

Rep and Warre Currants.—The first-named, especially, 
would seem to be better grown on the flat, rich alluvial soil 
bordering the Thames, than in Kent; nevertheless, good fruit 
is grown in places. A deep rich soil seems to suit them best, 
but not by any means a damp one. But this fruit is rarely 
allowed a site to itself, being often, like the Gooseberry, planted 


—_— 


June 22, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


439 


under large trees, where it is surprising it bears at all, yet it 
does so when everything is favourable. The ordinary mode of 
pruning is objectionable to me; a too-close spurring-in causes 
all the fruit to be collected together, whereas if more young 
wood were left every year, the fruit would be more scattered, 
and in cases where it is advisable to let it hang long on the 
bushes, there can be no question but it keeps better singly than 
when in large clusters of bunches. 

Buack Curnants.—Differing widely from the last in every 
way, this hardy fruit is benefited by moisture both in the air 
and at the root—not that it likes a stagnant wet soil, but it 
will thrive in a moister one than avy of our other fruits, and 
those seasons when it fails to do well, arising from blight, I 
believe the cause to be lack of moisture rather than any defect 
of the bloom, as the plant, although accommodating enough to 
succeed tolerably well, even on dry stony places, is, evidently, 
not at home there, finer fruit being grown when it is planted 
near a rivulet, or other moist place. Its hardy and accommodat- 
ing character, however, gives it a claim to notice, and some twenty 
years ago it was in great demand asa market fruit, but consign- 
ments to London from other districts than Kent have kept the 
prices down, so that it is not so popular as it was. Asan under- 
growth, however, it is, perhaps, the most profitable of any, and 
is otherwise deserving of attention. 

Finprerrs AND Cos Trezs.—I confess not being sufficiently 
versed in the management of these to make any observations 
on them at all likely to be useful, but believe them to be the 
most profitable of all our fruits when well grown, and they seem 
to do best on the dry slopes, where a good depth of soil rests 
on a ragstone foundation, portions of the latter in a broken 
condition being found on the surface, and water only found at 
the depth of 30 or 40 feet, perhaps; but I am not well enough 
acquainted with the management of this tree to give any useful 
hints upon it, so must pass it over. 

STRAWBERRIES.—There is no doubt but that better fruit of 
this might be grown in the neighbourhood of Maidstone than 
is done near London, only the carriage is attended with expense 
and serious loss to the fruit. The success of the growers in 
the immediate neighbourhood of London I attribute to the 
Javish application of manure; the fruit in general not being 
good-tasted, especially that grown where town sewage is used, 
but size and appearance are conditions of so much importance 
at market that all other things fade before them. Believing 
therefore that the supply for London is already met in the dis- 
tricts nearer where it is wanted, I should not like to embark in 
this branch at so great a distance. I may, however, say, that 
next to the deep alluvial soils of valleys by the side of rivers, 
the sandstone formation is most suitable for Strawberries, 
while calcareous soils, or those tending that way, rarely pro- 
duce good crops. 

Raspperrizs.—A fruit requiring special gathering for market, 
and it ought only to be sent there in water-tight vessels as the 
juices run out. Itis often an unsatisfactory article both for 
buyer and seller, as the first-named often questions whether all 
the juice the fruit is swimming in when it reaches London was 
not gathered with it from the bushes; and certainly there is 
every scope for increasing the quantity by the same means as are 
adopted with milk; but as this is not our purpose, we may 
say that although the Strawberry, as before remarked, dislikes 
a calcareous goil, this plant luxuriates in one, and the best 
examples of good cultivation I have met with are of this kind ; 
depth of soil and a little more moisture than most other kinds 
of fruit delight in, are also requisite to enable the plant to ripen 
off its later fruit to advantage. 

Prunina.—From the foregoing remarks it will be seen that 
little has been said about the pruning of the respective trees, 
for the reason that the general mode adopted in the neighbour- 
hood cannot well be improved upon, excepting, perhaps, in the 
ease of old Apple and Pear trees, which I would certainly advise 
not to be allowed to go so long without using the knife, as I am 
of opinion that the severe pruning of an old tree is bad, and the 
popular opinion that no good arises from it is, certainly, too 
true, whereas if a slighter pruning had taken place some years 
sooner the tree might have been kept in better order, and there 
would not have been much occasion for those severe cuttings 
which we so often see; neither is it advisable to cut down and 
repraft old trees, as they very often fail some four or five years 
afterwards, that it would be better to replace the tree with a 
young one, or better still to replace the whole orchard, perhaps, 
for I am of opinion that many of the orchards met with have 
stood too long to be profitable. Of course, a tenant-at-will is 
unwilling to incur the expense of rearing a new one, and pro- 


longs the old one year after year, with a decreasing produce. 
Assuming that some one had the privilege of dictating what 
would be the best way to perpetuate a certain amount of orchard 
for one hundred years, the question would be, whether it would 
be better to have three or four sets of trees during that time or 
not. My view would certainly be to have four, or, perhaps, one 
more than that. Of course, this proposition is liable to excep- 
tions, as trees in some places show unmistakeable appearances 
of declining health at fifteen years, as much so as others do at 
thirty, and certain kinds, as the Hawthornden Apple, &c., canker 
and die off much sooner than others; therefore I would advise 
these kinds to be planted by themselves, so that the whole 
plantation could be renewed at once, and not piecemeal, as is 
the case where certain kinds dwindle away. In the pruning of 
young standard trees, the practice of the neighbourhood in not 
heading them down, or rather not cutting them in, the first 
year is, I think, excellent, and the moderate cutting they get 
afterwards is also good, and I may observe I am no advocate 
for that severe pruning of the Apple and Pear we sometimes 
see adopted, of cutting away every particle of new wood much 
the same as is done with the Filbert and Cob tree. In a very 
windy place it may be excusable, but I question whether, in 
point of utility, it matches the ordinary standard, with a well- 
proportioned head; while, in point of beauty, it is so far re- 
moved from everything that can be called ornamental, that the 
term ugliness is more appropriate ; but we need say little more 
on the sabject of pruning, beyond the general observation that 
a vigorous-growing young tree ought not to be so much cut as 
one of moderate growth, rather try and cut some of its principal 
roots a bit, to check its growth and throw it into a bearing con- 
dition. Long gross shoots of Plums might be shortened in 
summer if they can be got at, but Apples and Pears may as well 
finish their growth. 

Srtvarton.—Having already given the character of soil best 
suited to each tree, it is only necessary here to describe the 
site, and this I am aware that local circumstances often de- 
termine. One thing, however, I would say, that when the 
soil and other things seem favourable, a site sloping to the 
north is not to be despised for Apples and Pears, for, although 
one facing the west has the advantage of being a little later in 
receiving the unwelcome visit of a bright sun after a frosty 
morning, it is not so exposed to the destructive effects of the 
south-westerly winds we generally have once or more during 
the fruit season. In 1869 and 1870, I believe it was about the 
10th of September each year, and some orchards were almost 
stripped on the last occasion. A west aspect, however, may be 
favourable for Plums, for they are mostly gathered before the 
storms that precede the equinox take effect. Slopes facing the 
east are not so good, those to the south are frequently in Filberts 
or Cobs; but all have some advantages which it is difficult to 
describe without knowing the peculiarities of the individual 

lace. 
i Puantinc New Orcuarps.—Where it is contemplated plant- 
ing @ new orchard to produce fruit for market, only the very 
best soils and situation suitable for such purposes ought to 
be operated upon. The great competition in the trade, which 
we may say is yearly increasing both at home and abroad, 
leaves small chance of our again obtaining those high prices 
for fruit which were common some thirty or forty years ago, so 
that the intended planter should well consider what chances 
he has of obtaining a quantity of good fruit, for it must be 
quantity that will remunerate him. A fancy price for a small 
quantity of a very choice kind, however tempting the sound may 
be, is not the thing to look to; the buyers of such things are few; 
besides, if they were increased, it is not unlikely that the 
foreign growers would step in and successfully compete with the 
fancy grower, as they now do with the general one, so that it is 
only advisable to look to the million as customers ; and if many 
of the indifferent orchards now in existence were done away 
with, and replaced with others on more favourable sites, dis- 
carding at the same time some of the old varieties of fruit, it 
is likely that this kind of husbandry might again become a re- 
munerative one. At the same time let it be bornein mind that 
I only advise fruit plantations to be made on such soils and 
situations as are described, because they are the most likely to 
pay, and not because those of a contrary description cannot be 
made productive. On the contrary, a lavish expenditure of 
money can make a desert fruitful, but the calculating fruit- 
grower, who reasonably expects a guinea returned for every 
pound expended, will naturally pause before he commits him- 
self to any of those plausible schemes that have for their 
starting point a considerable expenditure of money, and the 


440 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ June £2, 1872. 


uncertainty of receiving more than a certain per-centage of it | will first consider wha! a thousand trees will cost, andéa little 
back again, such for instance, as the plan of dwarfing Apple | reflection will enable him to foresee that everything will be 
and other fruit trees into diminutive objects, so as to have so | dwarf as wellas the trees—the purse of,the planter, in the first 
many thousands of them upon an acre. The careful planter | instance, alone excepted. 


AN AURICULA STAGE. 
Tue accompanying figures represent a stage capable of con- | wood, but this can be of brick as well. There isa gutter at the 
taining from 100 to 120 blooming plants. It is built against a | back, as well as one at the bottom, but the back one is used be- 
wall and facing north; the ends are of brick, and the front of | cause of the height of the wall; were the wall lower it would 


Front Elevation. End View. 


Height of front boarding and end brickwork, 8 feet. 
Height of front sashes, 3 feet. 
Length, 10 feet. Width, 4 feet 8 inches. 


visedly so, as they look so much better. The sashes in front 
move up and down like windows.—D., Deal. 


a, Gutter at back wall. b, Gutterin front. d, Door. 

Height to apex of roof, 7 feet 8 inches. 

Height in front, 6 feet. 
not be necessary. The shelves are formed of two battens, 
moveable, and leaving a space between them; there are six 
shelves. It will be seen that the panes of glass are large, ad- 


THE GRAND YORKSHIRE GALA. 


Some of the north-countiy floral exhibitions are now quite as im- | forty-eight were very good examples of Marquise de Mortemart, Abbé 
portant as the London ones; in fact, we doubt whether any of the | Giraudier, Camille Bernaidin, Souvenir d'un Ami, and nearly the best 
London shows now equal in quality and variety the Manchester Show. | Général Jacqueminot we have ever seen, and we were glad to see the 
Next in importance is Leeds, and after Leeds is that which was held | old veteran in the field at the head of his forces. They also had one. 
in York last week on the Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. The | of the best blooms of Modéle de Perfection we have ever noticed ina 
weather was inauspicious, for the rain, which was gladdening the hearts | stand. In their thirty-six, Duke of Edinburgh and Marqnise de Morte- 
of agriculturists and insuring, we hope, an abundant harvest, was | mart, and in that of twenty-four, three trusses of each kind, Souvenir 
damping to the ardour of sightseers, and we believe there never hardly | d'un Ami, Xavier Olibo, Vicomtesse de Vesins, and M. Eugéne Verdier 
were fewer gathered together on the second day of the Show, which is | were especially noticeable; the latter we think a great acquisition. 
usually the people’s day, than this year. The arrangements of the tents Among Mr. Cranston’s Roses the best were Mdlle. Marie Rady, am 
are very effective, and might well be adopted by other societies, a large | exceedingly fine bloom; Annie Wood; Baroness Rothschild, a little 
circular tent 300 feet in circumference occupying the post of honour, | overblown, but beautiful in the delicacy of its colouring ;Homére, and 
and haying the large specimen stove and greenhouse plants staged in | Alfred Colomb. He also exhibited the best blooms of Felix Genero 
the centre. There were five large long marquees radiating off from it | we have yet seen, and though its shape will preclude it from ever being 
like the spokes of a wheel. The largest was devoted to Pelargoniums | among the first-class, yet owing to its being a variety in point of 
(Show, Fancy, and Zonal), Fuchsias, and bedding plants; a smaller | colour it will be useful ina stand. Mr. Edwards showed some good. 
one to Roses, both cut Roses and pot; a third to ornamental-foliaged | samples of Genéral Jacquemixot, Maurice Bernardin, and J. Nesmith, 
plants; a fourth to fruit and Orchids; and a fifth to the smaller | a variety which we are little acquainted with, and, considering that all 
specimens of stove and greenhouse plants. his Roses were gathered from under glass, from a house only recently 

The specimen plants exhibited by Mr. J. J. Stevenson, Mrs. Cole and | erected, and from Roses not yet established, the blooms which he 
Son, and Mr. W. E. Dixon were very fine, noticeably a plant of Cattleya | exhibited did him great credit. 

Mossize of Mr. Dixon, of which we think we have rarely seen a better- One of the most noticeable features in the Exhibition was the Pelar- 
bloomed specimen. Pot Roses were exhibited well by Mr. G. Edwards | gonium tent. Here Mr. Edwards carried off the chief honours, being first 
and Mr. Douglas; Mr. Edwards having the largest bloom, while Mr. | for Show Pelargoniums, Fancy Pelargoniums, Fuchsias, and bedding 
Douglas had the freshest foliage. plants. There was no very new feature among the bedding plants, with 

The only exhibitors of cut Roses were Messrs. Paul & Son, of Ches- | the exception of Senecio argentea, a new silvery-foliaged plant, in- 
hunt; Mr. Cranston, of Hereford; and Mr. Edwards, of York; and | troduced by Messrs. Backhouse. The Ageratums Tom Thumb and 
in each case the. awards were in the order named, Messrs. Paul carry- | Imperial Dwarf also were well exhibited. Among Bronze Geraniums 
ing off all the first honours. In their forty-eight they practically solved | Crown Prince and Ebor held a conspicuous position, and we hardly 
a question which was asked in THE JourNAL or Horticurture a | remember to haye seen so great a difference in colouring as between 
short time since, by exhibiting Deyoniensis and Climbing Devoniensis | two plants of Ebor, which were staged alongside each other; one of 
in the same stand. We should be sorry to disqualify under such cir- | them, a large plant, was quite green, almost the colour of Lady Con- 
cumstances, but we much doubt if they ought to be shown as distinct | stance Grosvenor, while the other was rich bronze and gold. The 
Roses. Messrs. Paul & Son, for instance, are now sending out a | Tricolors were good. Flambeau (so like Sophia Dumaresque that it is 
Climbing Victor Verdier, a sport originating from a strong shoot of | barely to be distinguished, if at all), was well shown in several collec- 
Victor Verdier; are they eyentually to be shown as distinct Roses? | tions, and Lady Cullum was certainly the best. In Nosegays and 
This is a question which is yet doubtful. Amongst Messrs. Paul & Son’s | Zonals, Indian Yellow, Le Grand, and Amy Hogg were the best 5 


. 


June 22, 1871. J JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 447 


Clipper and Lord Derby also being well shown. Mr. Edwards’s | Orchids. We should like to know the opinion of Orchid-growers on 
Fuchsias were good. 5 that point. S 

Among the Orchids, the question struck us whether Cypripedium In conclusion, we may congratulate the management on the general 
barbatum superbum and Cypripedium barbatum giganteum were sufli- | excellence of the Show, and, which is always a matter of congratula- 


ciently distinct to be shown as two separate varieties in a class of six | tion, on the fairness of the awards. 


FREMONTIA CALIFORNICA. 


Tux following notes on this great acquisition to our shrubbery | examining living specimens of Fremontia, I incli 

: : : : uel} 8 E am inclined t 
borders appeared in the “ Botanical Magazine’’ for 1866 from | refer the Fremontiec back to Sterculiace, placing it next to 
the pen of Dr. Hooker :—‘‘ A very singular and beautiful hardy | the tribe Sterculieze. It is a woody shrub, attaining 10 feet in 


Californian : A 
shrub, imported i mer : serene 
by Messrs. Veitch bling a Fig 
and which flower- tree.” ° 


The first liy- 
ing plant of the 
Fremontia in 
Europe, and for 
along time the 
only one, was 
raised at Chis- 
wick in 1851, 
from the only 
seed that vege- 
tated out of @& 
packet received 
trom Mr. Robert 
Wrench, of Jacob 
Wrench & Sons, 
39, King William 
Street, London 
Bridge. All ef- 
fortsto propagate 
it proved vain, 
and when the 


ed at their nur- 
series in June of 
the present year. 
It is, undoubted- 
ly, the choicest 
early- flowering 
shrub introduced 
of late years, and 
more than rivals 
the Forsythias in 
many respects. It 
was discovered 
during Colonel 
Fremont’s  ad- 
venturous United 
States Lxpedi- 
tion to the Rocky 
Mountains in 
1846, and bears 
the name of that 
gallant officer 


and highly-dis- Horticultural So- 

tinguished eX- ciety fell into dif-- 

plorer. . ficulties, the plant 
The botani- was sold in April, 


1859, to Measrs- 
E. G. Henderson, 
and Son for £37 
16s., and we be- 
lieve subsequent- 
ly died. 

The re-intro- 
duction of the 
plant is dueto the 
enterprise of the 
Messrs. Veitch, 
who obtained, 
seeds through one 
of the Lobbs, 
from the north- 
ern part of the 
Sierra Nevada, 
where, as well as 
in Mariposa, the 
plant is found 
growing wild. 
These seeds have 
furnished the 
plants from which 
Messrs. Veitch 
have exhibited 
flowering branch- 
es in the May 
and June of the 
present year, as 


cal characters of 
Fremontia are 
very anomalous. 
It was referred to 
a new section of 
Bombacee (Fre- 
montiew) by its 
founder, and cor- 
rectly placed a- 
long with the 
famous Hand- 
plant, Cheiroste- 
mon (Tab. nostr. 
5135), and the 
stamens were de- 
scribed as five, 
with two-celled 
anthers. On the 
other hand, cer- 
tain considera- 
tions of affinity 
and structure in- 
duced Mr. Ben- 
tham and myself, 
following Dr. 
Torrey, to regard 
the apparently 
two-celled  an- 
thers of this plant 
and Cheiroste- 


mon as consist- wellassome years 
ing of two con- ago 

i: : tet ee go. id 
fluent single- Fremontia californica, The plant is 2 


shrub, growing from 4 to 10 feet high, and bears an abundance of 
rich yellow flowers fully 2 inches in diameter. 


celled anthers, whence we referred both to the order Malvacexe 
instead of Sterculiaceze. I must confess, however, that after 


NEW BOOK. 
The Subtropical Garden, or Beauty of Form in the Flower Garden. By W. Rovinson, F.U.8. London: John Murray. 


To those who are interested in what is called ‘subtropical i 
hose who t c ‘ropical | weleoms. It may be necessary for us to state, for the in- 
gardening,” this new work of Mr. Robinson’s will come with a | formation of those who do not know what is meant by sub- 


412 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


tropical gardening, that it is a sort of garden decoration pro- 
duced by the introduction of masses or of isolated specimens 
of plants having a luxuriant growth and large picturesque 
fuliage, and which are generally indigenous to tropical or sub- 
% opical climates, giving to the places where they are planted 
gs mewhat of the effect of a tropical vegetation. When the 
system was first introduced, the term may have been applic- 
able enough, but as it is now practised it is arbitrary and un- 
meaning, for many of the plants employed are neither tropical 
nor subtropical. The system, nevertheless, by whatever name 
it may be called, is one which has introduced new features to 
our flower gardens and pleasure grounds, which are at once 
bold and pleasing in their effects, and wherever there is space 
Sufficient to practise this style of decoration, it is desirable to 
Some extent to introduce it. 

In the work before us Mr. Robinson has very ably treated 
the subject as a distinct branch of decorative gardening. In 
his introduction he enters fully into the practical part of the 
subject of forming these gardens. But the greater part of the 
book is occupied with descriptions and excellent wood engrav- 
ings of all the plants used in subtropical gardening, and many 
lists of plants adapted for various purposes of subtropical gar- 
dening. Of the descriptions we take as an illustration the 
familiar Canna :— : 


“Tf there were no plants of handsome habit and graceful leaf avail- 
able for the improvement of our flower gardens but these, we need not 
despair, for they possess almost every quality the most fastidious could 
desire, and present a useful and charming variety. The larger kinds 
make grand masses, while all may be associated intimately with flower- 
ing plants—an advantage that does not belong to some free-growing 
things like the Castor-oil plant. The Canna ascends as boldly, and 
spreads forth as fine a mass of leaves as these, but may be closely 
grouped with much smaller subjects. The general tendency of most 
of our flower-garden plants is to assume a flatness and dead level, so 
to speak; and it is the special quality possessed by the Cannas for 
counteracting this that makes them so valuable. Even the grandest 
of the other subjects preserve this tameness of upper-surface outline 
when grown in great quantities: not so these, the leaves of which, even 
when grown in dense groups, always carry the eye up pleasantly from 
the humbler plants, and are grand aids in effecting that harmony which 
isso much wanted between the important tree and shrub embellish- 
ments of our gardens and their surroundings, and the dwarf flower-bed 
vegetation. Another good quality of these most useful subjects is their 
power of withstanding the cold and storms of autumn. They do so 
better than many of our hardy shrubs and plants, so that when the 
last leaves haye been blown from the Lime, and the Dahlia and 
Heliotrope have been hurt by frost, you may see them waving as grace- 
fully and as green as the vegetation of a temperate stove. Many of 
the subtropical plants, used for the beauty of their leaves, are so tender 
that they go off in autumn, or require all sorts of awkward protection 
at that season ; but the Cannas last in good trim till the borders must 
be cleared. All sheltered situations, places near warm walls, and nice 
snugly-warmed dells, are suitable positions for them. They are gene- 
rally used in huge and ugly masses, both about Paris and London; 
but their true beauty will never be seen till we learn to place them 
tastefully here and there among the flowering plants—just as we place 
sprigs of graceful Fern in a bouquet. A bed or two solely devoted to 
them will occasionally prove very effective; but enormous meaning- 
tess masses of them, containing perhaps several hundred plants of one 
variety, are things to ayoid and not to imitate. As to culture and 
propagation, nothing can be more simple: they may be stored in 
winter, as readily as Potatoes, under shelves in the houses, in the root- 
zoom, or, in fact, anywhere, if covered up to protect them from frost. 
And then in spring, when we desire to propagate them, nothing is 
easier than pulling the roots in pieces, and potting them separately. 
Afterwards it is usual to bring them on in heat, and finally harden 
them off previous to planting out in the middle of May; but a modifi- 
cation of this practice is desirable, as some kinds are of a remarkably 
hardy constitution, and make a beautiful growth if put out without so 
much ae leafon them. The soil for all Cannas should be deep, rich, 
and light. 

“Tn rambling through the suburbs of Paris, I once came upon a 
tuft of Canna springing up strongly through a Box-edging—pretty good 
eyidence that it had remained there for some years. Upon inquiring 
of the proprietor of the garden I found this was the case, and that he 
had no doubt of the hardiness of several other kinds. They were 
planted not more than 8 or 10inches deep. When we remember that 
the Cannas are amongst the most yaluable plants we use for giving 
grace and yerdure to the flower garden, this surely is a hint worthy of 
being acted upon, as, of course, they will proye equally hardy with us. 
Considering their diversity of colour and size, their graceful pointed 
habit and facility of propagation, we must concede them the first place ; 
but their capability of being used by anybody who grows ordinary bed- 
ding plants, and the fact that they may be preserved so very easily 
through the winter, enhance their value still more. Cannas, protected 
by a coating of litter, have been left out in Battersea Park through 
seyere winters, and during the unfavourable summer of 1867 attained 
@ height of nearly 12 feet. Where it is desired to change the arrange- 


[ June 22, 1871. 


ments as much as possible every year, it may not be any advantage to 
leave them in the ground, and in that case they may be taken up with 
the bedding plants, and stored as simply and easily as Carrots. Wher- 
ever they are grown as isolated tufts, in small groups, or in small beds, 
it will be best not to take them up oftener than every second or third 
year. These noble plants would also adorn the conservatory, which 
is often as devoid of any dignified vegetation as the unhappy flower 
gardens which are seen all over the country. Few subjects would be 
more effective, none more easily obtained.” 


NOTES AND GLEANINGS. 
WE regret very much to announce the premature death of 
one of our correspondents, Mr. W. T. Crivps, nurserymen, 
Tunbridge Wells. He was a few months more than thirty. 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Now is @ good time to apply salt to Asparagus and Sea-kale 
beds; about 1 lb. to a square yard is sufficient; it is a great 
waste to lay it on after the plants have ceased growing, par- 
ticularly when the soil is at all cold and stiff. Stimulants 
applied now will enable the roots to lay up a good store of 
organisable matter for another season, and, therefore, in ad- 
dition to salt, occasional applications of liquid manure should, 
if possible, be made. The effect of this kind of treatment 
will be perceived in the autumn, by the plants retaining their 
green colour much longer than the others not so treated, and 
in spring by increased size and productiveness, evidently show- 
ing that the longer the functions of the plants can be preserved 
by the application of stimulants, the greater the amount of 
matter stored-up for the ensuing season. The planting-out of 
Cape and other Broccoli, Cabbages, Cauliflowers, Kales, and 
Winter Greens must be vigorously prosecuted, and every vacant 
space should now be kept well filled-up. The trenches for the 
main crops of Celery should now be prepared; for this purpose 
the spaces between the rows of Peas are very applicable. The 
shade from the Peas will be very useful to the Celery in its 
earliest stages, and the Peas will be entirely removed by the 
time they are likely to be injurious. Continue to top Beans 
and Peas as they advance, and keep them well gathered as 
they become fit for table. Make another sowing of Peas. The 
Early Frame is the best sort for this and the next sowing, 
after which there is little chance of their coming to perfection. 
Another sowing of Dwarf Kidney Beans may be made for 
succession, and advancing crops both of these and Scarlet 
Runners should be well thinned-out. Keep the goil about 
them well forked-up and pulverised. Continued experience 
goes far to prove that the fork is much the best instrument 
that can be used amongst all wide-planted crops. Continue to 
make occasional sowings of Lettuces, the White Silesian for 
stewing, and the Gold Cos, Bath Cos, and Green Cos for 
salads. Keep Turnips well thinned-out, and watered when 
needful; make successional sowings. See that Tomatoes are 
kept well thinned-out and najjed to the wall. 


FRUIT GARDEN. 

Strawberries will now require timely applications of water 
according to the state of the weather, and the fruit must be 
protected from birds. A trustworthy boy is far cheaper and 
better than popping at them from morning till night. The 
nailing-in of the young wood of wall trees must be continualiy 
followedup. The breastwood of Pears should now be broken off 
within a few joints of the base, carefully retaining the leaves. 
The opinions of practical men are divided on this point, but 
after many trials I retain the system of removal as being the 
neatest and most efiectual. Of course, a due supply of young 
shoots must be laid-in to fill-up all present or prospective 
vacancies. Now is the best time to thin-out the young canes of 
Raspberries. Pinch-out the tops of young shoots of Figs, and 
thin the fruit if too thick. As soon as the Grapes on the open 
walls are set they should be well thinned, the trouble of doing 
this is amply repaid. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

Preparations should now be made for propagating border 
varieties of Pinks. Many methods haye been recommended 
for increasing the Pink, all more or less successful in their 
results; but those who chiefly grow them for the purpose of 
decorating flower-garden borders will find, now that so much 
time is taken-up with other matters, that the plan propounded 
some years ago by Mr. Mearns is more speedily performed, 
and is attended with as great success as the wearisome and 


June 22, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


443 


tedious mode of propagating by pipings. Choose a shady and 
moist situation, add some sand when digging the ground, and 
make it smooth and fine. This is all that is necessary in pre- 
paring the ground for the reception of the slips; take off slips 
from the old plants by pulling them downwards; do not dress 
them in any way, neither smooth the rough end nor shorten 
the grass; lay the slip horizontally on the surface of the 
ground, press it into the soil in a doubled form with one hand, 
and set the grass-side upwards with the other, let it le well 
watered, and the operation is completed. No shading is re- 
quired. See that a good number of Pansy cuttings are put in. 
Hyacinths, Tulips, &c., should now be taken up, and after 
they are dried stored away in some dry room. Let the beds 
be prepared ag soon as possible for planting. Those bulbs 
which are placed in the borders, and which add so much to the 
beauty and lively appearance of the flower garden and shrub- 
bery during the spring months, should now have some at- 
tention; those which require it should now be taken up. I 
would recommend that this be done annually, but only when 
necessity requires. An acquaintance with the different species 
will direct the cultivator in his operations in this respect. 
Some species, for instance, form new bulbs beside the old 
ones, and in course of time become go crowded as to become 
weak and cease to flower; others form the new bulbs under 
the old ones, and at last get so deep as to produce the same 
effect; others, again, form their new bulbs over the old ones, 
and send them above the surface of the ground, where they are 
destroyed by the hoe, the rake, or frost. All those which 
require taking up should be lifted now and housed till autumn. 
The evergreens in general will now have done shedding their 
leaves for a while, and a more general cleaning than usual 
should take place in dressed grounds. 
GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 
Many of the plants here being at this period of a somewhat 


ephemeral character, means must be constantly resorted to in | 


order to insure a continual succession of gaiety until the frost 
sets in, when the gap will be filled up with Chrysanthemums, 
the Camellia, Chinese Primyoses, and several other midwinter 
flowers. The latter constitute a division by themselves, of 
course, and lead the way to the forced flowers of returning 
spring. Those who keep a sharp eye on such matters will 
always take care to have a surplus stock in hand after the 
massing is completed. Such stock should be most ample—not 
less, but more than is wanted, in order to provide against gaps 
in the flower garden, and to supply the various in-door demands. 
All spring-propagated stock remaining in the store pots should 
be potted off forthwith, and placed on or plunged in ashes in a 
spot sheltered from the wind. Balsams, Cockscombs, and 
other tender annuals for succession should receive their last 
shift before they become pot-bound, and plenty of the Achi- 
menes family should be potted-off, some in large masses. Some 
of the best Scarlet Geraniums should be selected for flowering 
next winter. They should be rapidly grown and frequently 
stopped. Towards August they will become pot-bound; they 
must not, however, be shifted, but merely hardened in a very 
exposed situation until the end of September, in order to have 
them sturdy and very short-jointed. A light and warm shelf 
near the glass will thus make them objects of great interest all 
the ensuing winter. Let the Fuchsias have ample supplies of 
water, and provide succession stock in case of exhaustion. 
The early-flowering Pelargoniums, now rather exhausted, 
should have the bulk of their tops removed and made into 
cuttings. The old stools may then be thrown on their sides 
in a shady situation until they break buds half an inch in 
length, when they must be disrooted and repotted in rather 
smaller pots. Exhausted Cinerarias may be put in an old 
frame or pit and fumigated. They may then be cut down and 
turned out into a raised bed in the garden. They will there 
feed and produce an abundance of suckers with a little atten- 
tion in regard to watering, &c. 
STOVE. 

Frequent syringings, accompanied by moist floors and other 
surfaces, will be needful with the ordinary stove stock. With 
regard to Orchids, some little moderation is necessary, especi- 
ally when the weather takes a sudden change. Some of the 
Orchids will now require a little assistance in the way of top- 
ping-up, and a watchful eye must be kept as to insects. Bar- 
keria spectabilis, the Lycastes, and Odontcglossum grande seem 
to enjoy the temperature of a cool greenhouse without fire. 

PITS AND FRAMES. 

Before all the plants are turned out select some of the best 

for store plants, especially Heliotropes, Salvias, Petunias, 


| shrubby Calceolarias, &¢. Give them a good shift, and place 
them in a sheltered situation. —W. Keanr. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Ar last delightful warm rains with a genial south wind, 
The change produced in a few days is almost magical—the 
meadows, the corn crops, and the Turnips are all looking se 
happy and thankiul. Some of our crops in the kitchen garden, 
to which in expectation of rain we had given a fair soaking of 
sewage, seem now to be rather luxuriant. ‘In addition to what 
we stated a few weeks ago about sewage, let us impress on our 
younger readers that perhaps of all times the best to apply it 
is just before rain is expected. All manure-waterings in the 
open air are then more beneficial, and there is less risk of 
giving an overdose. 

Watering and Water-Collecting.—It is not long ago that we 
knew a clever young gardener who actually chose a dull foggy 
day to water a number of plants, and was found fault with 
accordingly, and nothing would be listened to in the way of 
reason or explanation. ‘Oh, Mr. F. knows what heis about, 
and he was watering on a bright sunny day—that is the time te 
give the plants the benefit of a watering.’”” We have watered 
in bright sun as well as ‘F.,”’ because we could not help it, 
and we generally accompanied such watering with some means 
for keeping the water in the ground, and preventing the sun 
evaporating it into the air. After the ground and the air are 
warm the best of all times for watering is the evening, because 
the plants have then the best opportunity of absorbing and 
using up the liquid applied; and the proprietor of a smal? 
garden may water then. But in many large places, and more 
especially where the bulk of the water must be brought by 
horse power, the gardener is often glad to use the water when 
he can obtain it. This does not at all alter the principle in- 
volved in watering in bright or in dull drizzly weather; and 
we have no hesitation in stating, as the result of much expe- 
rience, that the gardener who was found fault with ought to 
have been complimented, and at least his reasons for doing 
such a thing at such a time ought to have been listened to. 
When men who think as well as work are thus treated, need 
we wonder that there are so many who attend to their duties: 
merely as a work of routine, and trouble themselves nothing 
about the reason why? We wish, however, that the employers 
of gardeners could be induced to see the difference between ar 
intelligent agent who will vary his operations according to 
varying circumstances, and thus make the most of these cir- 
cumstances, and the merely good working machine who can only 
work well in a definite way. 

Writing now on the evening of the 17th, while the thunder 
is pealing and the warm rains descending so nicely, the 
question aptly occurs, ‘‘ Would you have watered at all if you 
had known that such rains were coming?” Well, in general 
terms and for general things perhaps not; but then how were 
we to know that we were to have heavy rains for several con- 
tinuous days instead of one? The ground was so dry, that 
until this afternoon all the warm rains only went down to a 
very small depth from the surface. They refreshed the foliage 
and produced vapour about the plants, but they did but little 
to reach the roots. Hyen now all we have had as yet has not. 
gone down very deeply, and therefore in the cases formerly 
indicated, as Peas, Cauliflowers, and Cabbages, we have no 


doubt that the watering with sewage has well repaid all the 
labour. The effects have been most striking. Peas have filled 
and swelled most rapidly ; and Cauliflowers, that with few ex- 
ceptions refused to budge, have swelled their beautiful snow- 
white heads, and made us forget all about the cold parching 
winds, in which so few things would progress as we wished. 

We have now plenty of water in our tanks and reservoir, 
and we only regret that so much that fell on roads and walks 
has run to waste. We know that many make remarks on our 
fears about water. Those who have a pretty large place to 
keep as neat as possible, and with whom water is almost es 
costly as the cheap wines, will have a feeling of sympathy. 
Certainly with our experience, and were our young days coming 
back, we would not take charge of a garden without knowirg 
something of the water supply. 

We are doing much to save the water that falls, but there aie 
a few simple facts which we wish to notice for the benefit cf 
all concerned, and as bearing on what was lately stated in 
reference to tanks and connecting pipes, and purity and clear- 
ness of water. 


444 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE 


AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ June 22, 1871. 


We have two lean-to orchard-houses in a line, anda tank 
made at the end of one to receive the water that falls on the 
roof of both. From the one house the water has to pass only 
a short distance to the tank; from the other it has to cross 
from front to back outside the wall, and then flow 80 feet under 
ground before it reaches the tank. From the house nearest 
the tank the water poured in from the spout right merrily this 
evening. Had it done so from the other house the tank wouid 
‘haye had nearly a double supply. After nearly two hours of 
drenching rain scarcely a drop came from the farther house, 
though the water ran and disappeared from the spout as freely 
in the one case as in the other. Then where could the water 
go? Well, it is no mystery tous. Contrary to our expressed 
wish to have either metal pipes, or hard-burned earthenware 
pipes with cement joints under ground, for a paltry saving com- 
mon soft-burned earthenware pipes were used ; and as we were 
forced to be away at the time, we have always thought that 
more mortar was used for the joints than cement; at any rate, 
contrary to our expressed wish, all was covered up before we 
returned. The least defect in the joints, and the porosity of 
the pipes, would be quite sufficient to account for ihe non- 
appearance of the water in the tank. For some trifling sup- 
‘posed saying—in reality a penny-wise-and-pound-foolish affair, 
the tank, a3 respects this house, was made in vain. In:tead of 
‘hogsheads we had not quarts. We shall endeavour to have all 
overhauled before long. Sucha fact ought to be a warning. 

Another instance has just come under our notice. A pretty 
little chapel has just been cleaned and renovated. Of all 
places, churches and chapels ought to be patterns at least of 
meatness and cleanliness. The position of the place in question 
ds yery good, the ends standing north and south, the ground 
sloping gently to the south in front, and all open sward com- 
mon. At the north end there is barely a yard of ground, 
abutting against a high hedge bank. With strange perversity, 
contrary to what the slightest consideration would dictate, the 
spouting at the sides of the roof is taken to this confined sunk 
morth end, and to a common brick drain there. It was ad- 
vised to bring the water to the south front at once, but the 
trustees satisfied themselves, by pouring buckets of water down, 
that the water did come from the drain, and so things remain 
as they are. The water would run from our orchard house if 
we poured bucketfuls down, that we have proved ; but with less 
‘Ghan a flood the water is absorbed by and oozes out of the drain; 
and in the case of the chapel, clean and paint how they may, 
the north end inside soon becomes an ugly spectacle from damp 
incrustations, and nothing will prevent them until the drain or 
spouting be altered, and thus dryness at the foundation of the 
building be secured. 

Now, as regards roofs in relation to water supply. There is 
nothing more picturesque than an old thatched roof; no roof 
4s so warm in wiater and so cool in summer. When it be- 
comes moss-and-lichen-incrusted it passes the water off pretty 
freely, but jast in proportion to the age and picturesqueness of 
‘the roof the water will be more tainted and unfit for particular 
sourposes. Tile roofs are very good, but, unless hard-burned 
and vitrified, tiles should not be adopted where tanks fed from 
roofs are to be depended on instead of wells. Like soft.drain 
‘tiles, they absorb a great deal of gentle rains, and until absorp- 
tion ceases little will reach the spouts. There is no better roof 
aor collecting water than good hard slate, unless we come to 
glass. 

A few words as to tanks and filters. Where very little smoke 
falls on slate roofs, for common purposes there is no necessity 
for filters. In some cases we have known horses and cattle 
turn away from filtered when they could obtain unfiltered 
water. For general domestic, laundry, or even garden-syring- 
ing purposes, it is well to pass the water collected in tanks 
through two small filters previously. The additional expense of 
two small brick-and-cement filters, say 30 inches square by as 
‘much in depth, is a mere trifle when thus water pure as crystal 
is secured. This is the more necessary when the water comes 
from roofs near to kitchen and other chimneys. For a new 
tank, where clearness of water is an object, we have two of 
these filters, and as thoy are not yet covered, anyone who 
looked at them after these rains would at once see that the 
extra money was well spent. In the receiving filter the surface 
of the water looked like so muchink. In the second filter, 
from which the water passed to the tank, the water was as clear 
28 a dewdrop. Such small filters are easily cleaned out, and 
the materials washed and replaced as necessary. We have 
drawn water for a great many years from a tank that has no 
lters, and the water is delightfully clear; but little smoke 


rested on the slate roofs, and we suspect that by this time 
there will be a deposit at the bottom of the tank. Where such 
deposits exist to any considerable extent there may be some 
danger in the free use of the water for domestic purposes, and 
none the less because it is bright and sparkling. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

The rains did more benefit to fruit of all kinds than any 
syringings we could have given to trees and shrubs, and will 
greatly help to cause our Strawberries to swell fast. Merely as 
an example of the dryness, we may mention that we had to net 
green Cherries, as they and green hard Strawberries were being 
freely carried cff by the blackbirds and thrushes. Hyen some 
Currant bushes were almost stripped of their green fruit, as 
the birds popped over the wall with whole strings of green 
Currants in their beaks. Since the warm rains we have seen 
little of them. Worms and molluses would be more easily ob- 
tainable. We proeeeded with nipping the points out of the 
shoots of dwarf Currants, &c. In the case of Plums and Cherries 
many of the points have some fly on them, so that we get rid 
of the fly by the same process. Where able to reach them we 
shall follow with a good syringing with clear soot and lime 
water. This is one of the best washes when used in time. Clear 
soap water is also very good, but if taken in time there is great 
cleansing power in nice clear soft water forcibly applied. The 
above two washes will improve rather thaninjure growth. We 
have nothing to say against the compositions and washes adver- 
tised in these columns, only we say, Be careful to use them 
weak enough. 

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 

Our walks are tidy ; we shall presently have them neat for 
the season by giving them alla slight surface-sprinkling, and 
thus avoid all hoeing, turning, &c. Without this the sides, 
from much sweeping, are apt to become soily. When all the 
grass cannot be cut early and kept as short grass, it is always 
advisable to keep a breadth short by the sides of the walk, other- 
wise, if that is allowed to grow long, the walk will soon become 
green from the shed seeds of the grass. We have several times 
detailed how we sprinkle the walks with salt in dry weather, 
and then throw a little sand over the salt. This prevents damp 
stickiness in the walks, an evil ever apt to occur in fine-surfaced 
walks when salted. On this account we never like to use salt 
for walks after June, so that the softening and damping influ- 
ence of the salt should be all gone before the winter comes. A 
little salt along the sides close to the turf verges is the best of 
all preventives to earth heaps being raised there by worms, and 
nothing except weeds disfigures a walk more than these earth 
heaps. 

The lawn, which was returfed to remove all inequalities, 
looks as if it had not been touched, only it threatens to give us 
extra labour by its vigorous growth. Since the warm rains it 
would want going over every second day to keep it neat. Where 
economy in labour is an object our advice would be, Lessen 
rather than increase the size of short lawn grass. There is 
nothing more expensive about a garden than a well-kept lawn. 
It is ever doing, and after all never more than done. In many 
places the gardener may increase as much as he likes the space 
for short grass, whilst an additional rod to the cropping garden 
must not be even hinted. If he has a definite amount of 
labour, he will, if wise, think twice before, by adding to the 
short grass, he create constant labour and difficulty. 

All bedding plants out of doors we should now consider out 
of danger. In a few days we shall turn out the Coleus plants 
which have been standing fully exposed. Calceolarias are a 
mass of bloom. For reasons stated as to choosing cuttings, 
the Scarlet Geraniums are thin of bloom as yet, but we have 
little doubt they will be all right shortly. We find Iresine 
Lindeni is hardier than I. Herbstii, and both are hardier than 
the Coleus. We were surprised to see that Centaurea candi- 
dissima stood the winter in the north of Scotland. Not a plant 
stood with us, and even most plants of the Cineraria maritima 
were killed, though both were little protected by mounds of dry 
ashes. 

All trouble with watering will be saved for a time. Roses 
pretty clean before are now thoroughly washed. Those against 
a wall have been magnificent, as our four-footed intruders did 
not go to them there. 

Where cut flowers are a specialty, allow us to recommend 
for their neatness Salpiglossis and Phlox Drummondi. Ina 
packet of seed of each there is wonderful variety. For a trifle 
more money twelve separate varieties of each can be had ina 
packet. Many of the varieties of the Phlox are most charming, 
and the cut blooms stand long. Many that come distinct and 


June 22, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


445 


-L 


true to colour from seed are so fine that a few years ago every | 
available piece would have been made into cuttings, and stored 
over the winter. This may be done, but our experience is, 
there is much less trouble with seedlings, and they certainly | 
grow more vigorously. A person of refined taste told us last 
year that the Salpiglossis were fine, but the Phloxes were the 
essence of loveliness. 

As respects florists’ flowers, not a dead leaf should disfigure 
an Auricula; care should bo taken that the drainage is acting 
properly, and not a small worm should find a home in the pot. 
If potted in clean dry pots there is no difficulty in turning the 
ball out clean; and if there is a sign of a worm, a small wire 
passed through the ball will soon bring it within reach of the 
fingers. The drainage can then be seen to, and the ball replaced. 
A little rich surfacing should be added, and the plants kept on 
boards or on rough cinders on the north side of a fence. For 
all such purposes we prefer rough cinders flattened a little 
with the back of a spade to finely-sifted ashes, as the latter are 
so apt to choke the drainage. Tulips and other bulbs now 
over, and with the foliage ripe, may be taken out of the ground, 
and dried previous to bagging or boxing them. 

The few bedding plants that will be left we may pot and 
keep on for autumn flowering. We expect that the flower- 
beds will hardly have a blank this year. Where annuals are 
depended on for early and continuous supply, a quantity 
should be sown in 6 inch pots, and these will replace the earlier 
erops. Then, again, for cutting, let us especially recommend 
the Nemophilas, especially insignis and maculata; they are 
very beautiful, and stand well. 

Plants taken out of greenhouses should have a shady place 
at first, and have the pots protected from bright sun after- 
wards. We potted Pelargoniums of the florists’ kinds for late 
blooming, and searlets will be treated in the same way. We 
also potted a large batch of Balsams, having kept them in 
4 and 5-inch pots until they showed bloom. Hardly one has 
proved single. We prefer this mode to potting in large otsp 
before we know what the flowers will be. By cutting off all the 
forward buds, the flowers on the main stem and branchlets 
will expand about the same time. Woe have tried stopping all 
these, but now we are disposed to let the stem and branchlets 
take their natural course. Fine specimens can thus be 
obtained if the plants are grown in xich soil and have 
plenty of room and air. For want of room we are forced to 
defer giving large pots to some of the finer kinds of Coleus and 
other plants which need encouragement. Much potting now 
reqnires to be, and must be, altended to as soon as we get relief 
from flower beds and pleasure grounds.—R. F. 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 


«* We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the ‘“ Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, éc., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 


Booxs (7. M.).—The “ Cottage Gardeners’ Dictionary.” You can have 
it free by post from our oflice if you enclose 7s. 2d. with your aidress. 
{W. Nittleton),—There is no manual you name. “How to Farm Two 
Acres Profitably ” might suit you. 


HERBAL (Cheshire).—If you merely wish to know the medical qualities 
of plants, Gray’s ‘‘Supplement to the Pharmacopeia” will suit you. 
State what information you need. 


CovENT GARDEN Market Prices (Elruge).—Our quotations are the 
zetail prices. 


“WHat 1s AN ‘AMATEUR who does not employ a regular gardener 2” 
We have a show where certain classes are so restricted. I manage ull 
myself, with a lad aged nineteen to do the work. He has never been in 
any garden but mine, and I took him off a farm where he was carter and 
cowboy. Am I qualified to show under the above restriction ?—QuERCUS.” 
—(Certainly you are an amateur, and the lad is not “a regular gar- 
dener.”] ‘ 

OrancGE FuNGuUS ON AUSTRIAN BRIAR Rose (4. C. T.).—Yours is one 
of the worst cases of orange fungus we have ever seen; there are myriads 
of spores on the shoot sent. It is almost too late, we fear, for any 
remedy, but we should brush each shoot with a strong solution of soft 
soap—as much as a gallon of hot water will dissolve, and dust while wet 
with powdered sulphur (flour of brimstone), leaving it on for two or 
three days, and then syringe it off, and renew the application as long as 
any remains on. This application will, we have no doubt, kill the fungus, 
and it will remain to be proved if the plant has vigour enough to recover 
from the fungus afterwards. 


NITRATE oF SopA As A MANURE (H. H.) —We believe that to all garden 
crops it might be advantageously applied, provided it were given in small 
quantities. It may be used more largely on lawns. Experiments haye 


proved that it is very beneficial to Carrots, and it is very destructive of 
vermin in the soil. The most effective mode of applying it we think is | 


mixed with ground bones—one part nitrate of soda and two parts ground 
ones. 

PLantTinec GourDs AND Harpy Cucumsers (Far West).—They ought to 
be planted out without further delay. They will most likely bear fruit 
before the season is over. They can do no good where they are; it is too 
hot for any kind of plant. Plant out at once, protecting for a few days 
from sun and cold at night. A basket or hamper inverted over the 
plints is as good as anything. Remove it in a few days. Our corre- 
spondent wishes to know where he would be likely to procure seed or 
plants of Nepeta Mussinii and Reseda Phyteuma. 


Buppine APPLE Trees (Wire).—It is best done early in July, and in 
the same manner as for Rose trees, only the buds of the Apple are gene- 
rally put on the main stem of the stock, and from 8 to 6 inches from t!e 
ground. Your former communication must have miscarried, as we reply 
to all queries submitted to us. 


CLIMBER FoR East WALL or Conservatory (J, P.).—As your house 
receives no sun, we know of nothing that would suit you so well as Ivy 
and Hedera algeriensis variegata is very fine, also H. rhomboidea varie- 
gata with less boldfoliage. Jasminum nudiflorum would also grow freely, 
and Verbars flower, as we have had it in beautiful bloom in January on a 
north wall. 


Kout Rasr Cunture (R. P.).—The seed should be sown in the firs 
week of May in a bed, and in the same way as any other kind of Cabbage. 
At the end of June the plants should be planted out in good rich soil in 
an open situation, planting in rows about 18 inches apart, allowing 1 foot 
between the plants in the rows. They produce a sort of Turnip above 
ground, which is boiled and eaten, and is by some esteemed. The best 
kinds for gardens are the Early Green and Early Purple Vienna. Kohl 
Rabi is also grown for cattle, and considered a good substitute for Swede 
Turnips. The seed is sown in May,and tbe plants transplanted on 
manured drills at the close of June. The Large Green and Large Purple 
are best for this purpose. For table they sbould be used when the heads 
are 3 inches in diameter. 


PELARGONIUMS Fainine (B. H. Y.).—We do not see anything in the 
construction of your house or your mode of treatment that should cause 
the plants to flower so indifferently. We think, however, ag they go on well 
up to April, that the failure is due to the glass, which would affect the 
foliage as well as the flowers. We advise you to afford a shading of 
tiffany after March, haying it made to roll up and let down at will, and em- 
ploying it in all bright weather from about 8 A.M. to 5 P.m., but in cloudy 
weather keep it rolled up. We fear also that you do not giye air early 
enough, nor in sufficient quantity. You cannot give too much air, 
especially early in the morning, not closing the house at night. We pre- 
sume you water more than the once or twice a-week with liquil manure, 
giving enough at each time to show itself through the bottom of the pots, 
and that you keep down aphis. 

CLIMBERS FOR SourTH-East WaLtL (Patelin).—Berberidopsis corallina 
Bignonia grandiflora, and Lardizabala biternata would suit, a slight pro- 
tection being given in very severe weather. We would, however, have 
evergreens for a house wall—they are so much warmer-looking in winter, 
leafless plants giving a cold dreary aspect. You might have Escallonia 
macrantha, Ceanothus Veitchianus, or C. azureus, and Garrya elliptica. 
Ligustrum japonicum is also good. For wall-coverings they are prefer- 
able to climbers, except some of the close-growing kinds, as Ivy. 


FUNKIA GRANDIFLORA ALBA NOT FLOWERING (F. G.).—We are not 
aware that this plant requires treatment different from that given to other 
Funkias. A warm sandy loam enriched with leaf soil, and a dry ritu- 
ation in winter, are what we have found requisite for all the Funkias. 
Except in wet heavy soils and cold situations they are quite hardy. 
Probably your soil is too rich, encouraging too free growth. 


Maenorra Currines (Idem).—Magnolia macrophylla is difficult to 
layer, and slow in forming a union when inarched, and it will not strike 
from a cutting. It and all species with much pith, are best raised from 
seed. Many kinds, however, will strike from cuttings, putting-in the well- 
ripened shoots of the current year in sandy soil surfaced with sand, in a 
cool house, and covering with a hand-glass. This is best done at the end 
of summer—say in September. Some propagate Magnolias by putting-in 
cuttings of the young herbaceous-like shoots early in August in a cool 
house, shading from bright sun, and just keeping them moist. 

Dwarr CaMELLIAS FLowerRING IN CoLp Pits (Idem).—The plants 
may be flowered in cold pits, but not well, as for several days they must 
be without air in winter, and being excluded from the light in severe 
weather for several days the flowers spot and are often far from satis- 
factory. All that is required for flowering Agapanthus umbellatus varie- 
gatus is time for the plant to attain sufficient strength, giving it a light 
airy position in a greenhouse, with abundance of water when growing. 


Gvano Liqguip Manure (S. H.)—For your Roses and Geraniums half 
an ounce of guano to a bucket (24 gallons), of water will be sufficient. 


LAVENDER Disease (H. Warre).—We are sorry to say that we think 
you have a modification of the Lavender disease or mildew. We know of 
no remedy for the plants affected. There is only one pallialtive—namely, 
to pant slips from healthy plants, and to grow them in a comparatively 
poor soil, When the mildew attacked large p!antations in Hertfordshire, 
we had a strong opinion it was the result of high cultivation. No doubt 
the rich ground told on the size and the number of flower-stalks, but the 
plants were encouraged far beyond their natural luxuriance. 


MusHRooM-GROWING (Newark-on-Trent)— From your description we 
cannot make out clearly your treatment. Was your small bed 8 feet long, 
1} foot wide, and 2 feet deep, and walled all round, covered with boards, 
&c.? Did the boards go oyer the bed, and did the 2 inches of fresh horse 
droppings go over the boards? Tor the latter purpose any litter would 
just do as well. Ifyou put the fresh horse droppings on the top of the 
bed after spawning and earthing-up, you would encourage the spawn to 
run io the droppings instead of forming Mushrooms on the top of the 
soil. It is only on knowiog these details that we can pretend to give 
advice to our readers. Now, in your case, such a small bed, made out of 
doors ou the 22nd of Murch, would demand more care owing to its small 
size. The depth is very well, much deeper than we generally have beds, 
unless when we make a ridge one, but a bed merely 18 inches in width 
soon cools. Were we making such a bed we would watch carefully 
the time for spawning, and insert the spawn just when the heat was 
falling below 80°. Then if it still fell slowly, we would earth up, and 
make the surface firm and smooth; then if the heat showed signs of 


446 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 22, 1871. 


falling, add a little covering of litter, and if it fell still lower towards 60°, 
add a little more, and round the brickwork too, and coyer with boards or 
tarpaulin to keep wet out. If the bedis dry, give water at a heat of 75°. 


STRAWBERRY Forcine (An Amateur).—We do not think you ought to 
complain of the long fruitstalks of your Keens’ Seedling Strawberry; that 
they fell over and broke was more your own fault. The stalks of Keens’ 
Seedling, strong and healthy, were longer with us than usual. Small 
runner-plants of last summer in 6-inch pots threw up four and five 
strong fruitstalks, and the flowers were so numerous that we cut away 
more than four-fifths of them when the first flowers had set; but where 
we could do so, we put a twiggy stick into each pot, and tied the fruit- 
stalks to it, still allowing the top part to hang down a little. We have 
had fine fruit on comparatively short fruitstalks, but, on the whole, we 
would rather see them longer if strong in proportion. Unless when the 
fruitstalk is very long and the pot is ona shelf that will not permit the 
fruit to hang on both sides, we would rather not stake at all; but we have 
had rows where the fruit would be in the way, or too much shaded, if 
not thus staked-up. Most of your questions you will find minutely 
answered at page 416, No. 583. You havea very good collection of Straw- 
berries. For the earliest fruit in the orchard house we would recom- 
mend you to grow Black Prince. It is a small Strawberry and a little 
acid, but it is good when gathered just before it acquires the blackish 
tinge, snd it is a wonderful bearer if kept in a cool temperature. It 
rarely should be above from 50° to 55° unless from sun heat, when from 
5° to 15° more will be enjoyed by it. With us this season it has been 
something like a perpetual cropper, many 40-sized pots yielding three 
crops before we could meke-up our mind to turn them out, two or three 
flower-:tems appearing before we had quite gathered the first ones, and 
now, after being turned out into the ground, they are again becoming one 
mass of flower-buds. The next in earliness, and good for size too, would 
be Keens’ Seedling, and if you wish for variety then follow with President, 
Rivers’s Eliza, Dr. Hogg, and British Queen. The latter must have a 
good airy position to do well. Filbert Pine we have not grown either in 
the open air or under glass, and, therefore, cannot judge. Black Prince 
and Keens’ Seedling are best for early production. The others named 
are all better for standing carriage. , 


HorsE-CHESTNUT BLEEDING (W. H.).—The following are nctes by two 
good authorities:—“It is difficult, without seeing the tree in question 
and knowing something more of its past history, to judge of the cause of 
its disease, as the Horse-Chestnut is but seldom attacked in the way 
complained of, and generally succumbs to accidents, to which it is very 
liable even in a young condition, large limbs equivalent sometimes to 
half the tree being blown off. Yours, however, is a case of disease; and 
the first impression I would have on looking at the specimen of the bark 
is that the tree is staryed—that is to say, it wants more food; and if the 
position in which it is growing is a poor shallow soil with an uninviting 
or pernicious subsoil, a covering of good soil on the top would do good. 
Many years ago I witnessed some alterations going on by the side of a 
highway, where an embankment was formed covering the roots of some 
Horse-Chestnut trees several feet deep on one side of the trees, but in 
the material there was a quantity of stone and other open-lying sub- 
stances, and the trees were certainly improved rather than otherwise. If 
“W. H.’s” tree is languishing owing to want of focd, a supply of such 
will restore it. Iam also of opinion that a sha low sci loverlying chalk is 
not suited to the Horse-Chestnut, and if the one in question be on a site 
of this kind additions on the top may be: beneficial. I can hardly think 
any applications to the bark will do good, as I do not think the disease 
lies there, although the effects may be shown in that direction. The 
cause of the eyil (the same as Vines and other fruit trees often suffer 
irom) lies at the root, and perhaps these may have been ruthlessly cut 
and mutilated in making excavations for drains or other purposes. The 
work in such cases being put into the hands of mechanical men, trees 
and their welfare are totally disregarded. Perhaps some misfortune of 
this kind has befallen the tree; if so, it can only be remedied by examin- 
ing the tips of the roots and supplying good soil for the bad that may 
have found its way there. If, as suggested before, more food is wanted 
at the top, a covering of a few inches may be put on at once, and towards 
the end of summer examined to see if it be occupied. If a pavement 
overlies the roots weak manure water may be of service, but I have more 
trust in fresh good soil._J. R.” “It is hazardous to give even an opinion 
upon so slight evidence ; but as an opinion is not doctrinal, if I may use 
the term, I venture several. First, the evil may arise from an unhealthy 
ecndition of the soil, but I hardly think so. The second, and the more 
probable cause, is some accident. For instance, a branch may have been 
broken off at some time, leaying a jagged wound by which rain finds its 
way down the drying pores or sap-vessels, causicg internal decay; the 
rising sap, coming in contact with the decaying part, becomes unhealthy 
from an eruption, oozes out and runs down the tree, excluding the air, 
and thus causing decay. Thirdly, it may be the result of a gunshot or 
other wound, from which the sap oozes out, and wasps, hornets, beetles, 
and the larvz of some of the moths are continually preying upon it in 
their season of activity, thus keeping the wounds open for continual 
bleeding. These are opinions founded upon facts which I have closely 
obseryed. They are, however, but opinions, and may be wide of the mark. 
In the present case Iam sure you must feel how dangerous it is to give 
an opinion without seeing and closely examining the subject. Feeling 
much interested in arboriculture, this is a case I should much like to 
hear more about if you thoroughly investigate it—W. B.” 


CovertnGc MELON AND CucUMBER Frames (C. P.).—We donot consider 
it necessary to cover the lights with mats after May, indeed we have given 
up covering ours about a fortnight. Grapes ripening should have air at 
night. We leave about an inch opening along the whole length of the 
upper lights. It is sufficient to prevent moisture condensing on the 
berries and spotting the bloom. The Grapes are no worse of ripening 
slowly, only if this arises from the crop being heavy the quality will be 
inferior in colour. 


FUCHSIA AND VINE LEAVES BLIGHTED (P. H. C.).—The shoots of the 
Vine and the Fuchsia leaves appear to be scorched, we think, by the sun 
shining powerfully on them whilst wet. There is no trace of insects. The 
remedy is to give air before the sun shines powerfully. 


SeEepitinG Rose (R. Taperer).—Eyidently a seedling from that prolific 
parent Général Jacqueminot, and intermediate in colour between that 
flower and the Duke of Edinburgh. It is difficult to judge from a single 
specimen, and we advise the raiser to send some cut blooms to Notting- 
ham, to the care of the Floral Committee.” The petals had good depth 


and substance, but the flower was not sufficiently double; as it, however, 
is only the second year of blooming, we haye no doubt it will improve. 


AMERICAN BLicHT (J. P.).—Brush over all the parts attacked, using a 
mUEUEe of paraffia oil and soft soap as you propose, and let us know the 
result. 

TREE CARNATIONS (G. Brook).—Any of the principal florists who ad- 
vertise in our columns could supply them. 


CucuMBER LEavEs SpottED (H. H.) —The leaves have every appear- 
ance of the Cucumber disease, for which-there is no known remedy; 
they are of bright green colour where not destroyed, and the disease shows 
itself in brownish spots. We found under the microscope a number of 
eggs of thrips, and on unfolding the leaves detected with the naked eye 
aperiect insect, and very active, though the leaf was dried and fell to 
pieces on being crumpled. On fully opening the leaf and applying a 
lens we found a great many thrips alive. If they swarm so on a dried 
leaf, what must their number be on the plants? We would remove all 
the leaves like those sent us, and, indeed, all that are one-half so bad, 
and burn them. Then heat the pipes to a temperature of 160°, and with 
a brush apply a composition of sulphur, brought to the consistency of 
thin paint with a solution of 2 ozs. of soft soap to the gallon, untila 
vapour is raised which the operator cannot endure. The pipes should 
be gone over several times, and be kept hot for about an hour, but not 
higher than 160°. An hour afterwards syringe the plants, and every part, 
and sprinkle the pipes so as to fill the house quite full of vapour. The 
following day—for this must be done in the eyvening—shade from sun, 
and keep every part wet, but do not wet the plants, or at least have the 
foliage dry by night; then fill the house densely with tobacco smoke. 
Keep close, moist, and shaded the nest day, and every alternate night for a 
week repeat the fumigation, then allow a week to pass and again fumigate, 
shading the following day. The plants may recover if kept more moist. 
Give air early, and shut up in the afternoon with a moist atmosphere. 


Various (E. R. P.)—Doulton & Co, Lambeth, make the Chatsworth 
edging tile for collecting water. Write to them. The seeds of Pinuses 
may be sown now, but better in March. Three-inch pots will be sufficiently 
large for the seeds. Use a sandy loam. They do not require heat, the 
most tender only need a cold house. We could not say what makes a 
Buckland Sweetwater Grape’s leaves yellow. Send usa specimen. Tulips, 
Hyacinths, and other bulbs are best kept on shelves in a cool dry place. 
Some remove all the loose coverings, and store the bulbs in dry sand ina 
cool place. We prefer keeping them on shelves. Dandelion is eaten asa 
salad, the roots being taken up in autumn or winter, and planted orplaced 
in moist soil in forcing or Mushroom house, and covered so as to blanch 
the leaves like Endive. The leaves are used from 6 inches to a foot in 
length. Indian Corn or Maize is edible, the heads boiled before the corn 
becomes hard. It is prepared in other ways. 


Grus (J. R. H.).—You should have enclosed one in a quill. The most 
effectual remedy will be to stir round each Lettuce and Cauliflower with 
a knife, and desiroy each marauder found. A woman would go over the 
whole in a day. Chemical applications strong enough to kill the grubs 
would kill the plants also. 

Names oF Puants (J. B.)—We cannot name plants from their leaves 
only. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


POULTRY-KEEPING UNDER DIFFICULTIES. 


I was much obliged for Mr. Kell’s letter on hatching disasters 
a few weeks back, but at the same time may I be pardoned for 
saying it provoked a smile, as I thought how utterly impossible 
its suggestions were either for me or many others to carry out ? 
I have not a spare cellar of any kind, much less one “ into 
which the frost cannot penetrate; neither haye I anyone who 
can go every hour to see how the hens get on. Mr. Kellisa 
happy man as regards his poultry arrangements. May he goon 
and prosper with them as he deserves! But for myself, limited 
space, limited means, and far more limited time have to bo 
contended with. My poultry-keeping is emphatically carried 
on “ under difficulties ” of any and almost every kind, and that 
is the simple reason why so much of what I have written re- 
lates to ‘‘dodges”’ of one sort or another. They have been 
forced on me by hard experience, and there is probably hardly 
any despairing amateur whose case I cannot in some degree 
sympathise with. I have thought it may encourage some to 
know what my ‘“‘advantages” at present are, and howl am 
forced to manage with them. “8 

The first hen I and my brother ever possessed was given us 
by the mother of one of our servants when we were only a few 
years old. Ican only remember that she looked to our child- 
ish eyes very big, that she used to sleep in a basket of straw 
in the kitchen, and that at last by the parental orders she was 
killed for dinner. Our hen killed! Ican yet remember feel- 
ing what a shame it was, and what a cruel, cruel man I thought 
the man who killed her, and who, by the way, was also called 
in to similarly dispose of a large black and white rabbit, given 
us by the same motherly soul. I believe on both occasions E 
expressed my inability to eat a morsel, but, being a sensible 
child, afterwards changed my mind, and “tucked in” a pretty 
fair allowance of our defunct pets. But these are only childish 
memories, and even the house in which we then lived I can 
hardly remember, and no wonder, for I have lived in three since 
then, and could not have been more than about five years old. 


- 


June 22, 1871. J 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


447 


My first real poultry experience began when a boy at school, 
and was in a small paved yard, where the same brother and 
myself went partners, buying the corn and selling the eggs to 
our mother at the market prices. The place may, perhaps, 
have been 20 feet square, all paved with large flags, and it may 
easily be imagined that we did not find it all smooth sailing, 
especially as the sun only shone there about two hours during 
each day. One or two of our first birds, in fact, died; we 
could not at the time tell why, but as we learnt more we did 
better, and at last actually made it pay. Food must have been 
cheaper then than it is now, for I can distinctly remember that 
for a long time we used to buy half a peck of good barley (our 
purchases were limited by our capital) for 4$d., but probably 
eggs were also cheap in proportion, and I have no hesitation 
in saying that if we could keep fowls there with profit, they 
may be kept with profit anywhere. It was there I learnt much 
of what has been most useful to me since, and most especially 
of the individual habits and instinets, the understanding of 
which adds so much to the indescribable fascination of poultry- 
keeping, and without which no one can ever be a true fancier. 
On those flags I learnt the absolute necessity of fresh green 
food; in that confined space I learnt the evils of overfeeding, 
and what could be done by cleanliness and care. 

The last two seasons we reared our own chickens. Our very 
first brood consisted of nine, and when they were hatched the 
whole house rejoiced over them, such dear little things as they 
seemed to our inexperienced eyes. They were a decidedly 
“ mixed lot,” but though the want of sun prevented their grow- 
ing very large, and we fed too much (as I now know) on slops 
besides, I think we reared them all in perfect health; and as I 
know we sold the first pair for 3s. 6d. to a woman who kept a stall 
in the market, they must have been pretty fair for those days. 

Then we had some Cochins, and I got the fancy, which has 
lasted ever since, for the feathered Asiatic breeds. We did not 
succeed with them, probably from want of study ; but the large 
feathered races has ever since been my peculiar favourites. I 
like their grand appearance, I like their nicety of feather, I 
like their quiet disposition and ‘‘ manageableness’’ generally, 
Tlike their constant egg-laying, and I like their noble propor- 
tions on the table. They are quiet, stay-at-home people like 
myself, and we get on together. Had we not then kept Cochins 
i should, perhaps, never have kept Brahmas. 

But we had to give up, and for years I hardly ever saw a 
fowl. My beginning again was the fault of Mrs. ‘‘ Nemo.” 
She comes from the country, and thought she should like a 
fresh ego now and then. She got them, but she little knew 
what she was comingin for. I only started with a few Irish 
mongrels, but the fancy was ‘‘born in me,” and it was not in 
human nature to go on like that. So I got some eggs from 
Pencilled Hamburghs, and we hatched a good lot; but.in our 
limited space they never did well as regards egg-production, 
besides flying about like sparrows and giving no end of trouble. 
Meantime I had had my attention drawn particularly to 
Brahmas, and ‘took’ to them instinctively. When I saw 
them for the first time I felt at once, ‘‘ that’s my fowl,” and 
began to study them forthwith. And I may, perhaps, remark 
that I studied them for more than a year before I bought a 
bird—a plan I would strongly recommend, in degree at least, to 
all others who may be beginning. The result of this caution 
was, that with the first pen I ever bought, and the first time I 
ever showed, I won the first prize at the first Bristol exhibition, 
though I used my own judgment only, and they had been 
passed by as unworthy at Birmingham; and these birds gave 
the real ‘‘ character” to my present yard, which is more or 
less descended from them. We had then just moved house, 
and the four fowls had the sole run of all our garden: hence 
they appeared in a ‘‘condition’? I have never been able to 
acquire since, though I have bred and sold many birds of ten 
times their value. This garden I measured to-day, and it is 
just 67 by 35 feet, including a path 4 feet wide the long way 
up. In this space every year I now breed from four pens of 
fowls, and hatch about forty chickens, rearing to maturity 
rather more than half, and killing or giving away as early as I 
can those not good enough to be preserved. But I have taken 
up so much space with this long and personal introduction, 
that I must leave the consideration of what may be done with 
this space to another paper.—L. Wricut. 


THE YORKSHIRE GALA BIRD SHOW. 


Tue able management and untiring zeal of Mr. John Wilson, the 
Secretary, carried to a successful issue the annual bird Show held in 


Bootham Field, York, in connection with the above gala, on the 14th, 
15th, and 16th inst. There were upwards of three hundred entries of 
birds for competition, being one hundred more than at the previous 
show, besides many other choice specimens for exhibition. Myr. Wilson 
was assisted in the bird department by Mr. M. Millington, of Yorl, 
well known for his exertions on behalf of the Rabbit fancy, to whose 
hands was entrusted the arrangement. Such an admirable collection 
of Canaries and British and foreign birds has not before been exhibited 
in York. The bird tent was a lively feature, and afforded great plea- 
sure to the many visitors from the city, and likewise to those who 
poured in by ‘‘ specials.” Mr. Charles Wand, of York, exhibited in an 
ingenious cage a wonderfully trained Greenfinch, which, by the regular 
turning of a wheel at one end of the cage, played a diminutive organ. 
This performance was the source of much interest, as were also a pair 
of white Thrushes (to which a special prize was awarded by the Judges), 
taken from a nest at Clifton, near York, a few days back. An orna- 
mental wire cage, of very skilful design and large, was exhibited by 
Mr. Pinder, of York, and received a special prize. Mr. J. Nicholls, of 
Acomb, near York, also showed a magnificent birdeage of immense 
proportions fitted on a stand with food-drawers, &ec., the whole being 
fully 6 feet high. The following are the awards of the Judges :— 

Beteran.— Clear Yellow.—l, — Gedley, York. 2, L. Belk, Dewsbury. 
8, Stevens & Burton, Middlesbrough. Clear Bujf—l, — Baines, York, 2, — 
Calvert, York. 3, — Belk, bi 

Norwicu.—Clear Yellow.—1,— Baines. 2, Moore & Wynn, Northampton. 
8, R. Triffitt, York. Clear Bufi—i, — Trifftt. 2, C. Burton, York. 3, W. Har- 
land, York. Even-marked Yellow—1, R. Hawman, Middlesbrough. 2, C. Bur- 
ton. 8,Moore & Wynn. Even-marked Bugfi—i, W. & C. Burniston, Middles- 
brough. 2,Moere & Wynn. 8, — Baines. 

YoRESHIRE.—Marked Yellow—il, R. Hawman. 2, P. Rawnsley, Bradford. 
8, Stevens & Burton. Marked Buff—1, — Rawnsley. 2, R. Hawman. 3, Stevens 
and Burton. Clear Yellow.—l, — Hackers, York, 2, J. Clarkson, York. 3, Quinn 
and Cowl, York. Clear Buff.—i, C. Gray, Heworth. 2,— Hackers. 8, Messrs. 
Burniston. ° 

Canary.—Clear Crested.—1, R. Triffitt. 2,— Belk. 8, Barwell & Jolly, North- 
ampton. Black. ted or Grey.—l and 8, R. Triffitt. 2, Moore & Wynn. 
Even-marked C —1, — Triffitt. 2and3, Moore & Wynn. 

un.—1 and 2, — Triffitt. 3,— Bradbury, Dringhouses. 
1, — Triffitt. 2, Moore & Wynn. 3, — Baines. : 

Lizarp.—Golden-spangled —1, R. Hawman. 2, — Harrison, Belper. 3, W. 
Kirk, jun., Market Weighton. Silver-spangled—l,— Harrison. 2, — Baines. 
8, Stevens & Burton. 

GouprincH MuLE.—iarked.—l, R. Hawman. 2, Stevens & Burton. 3, Messrs. 
Burniston. Orange.—i, Stevens & Burton. 2,— Harland. 8, — Burton. 

Canary.—Any other Vari Barwell & Jolly. 2, R. J. Smith, York. 

Nest of Yellow- . 2,— Triffitt. 8,— Russell, York. 
3 aatnabei Nest of Crested.— 


Buf — 


Cage of Six 
Collection of Twelve Bir 


Calvert. 3, 
Bailey, Sowerby, Thirsk. 2, 


ve British Birds—, T. 
— Calvert, Yellow Cock.—1, Quinn & Cowl. 2, J. 
Staveley. 3,— Baines. Buff Cock.—l, — Triffitt. 2, — Hackers. 3, — Cal- 
vert. Marked Canary.—l, —Burton. 2 and 3, J. H. Dossor, York. Crested 
Canary.—1, Quinn & Cowl. 2, Porritt & Raw, Ruswarp, Whitby. 3, R. Reed. 

Parnrot.—l, J. Clarkson. 2, Mrs. Wilkinson, Whitby. 

GoLprFincH.—l, — Triffitit. 2,— Gray. 

Linnev.—l, — Harrison. 2, — Harland. ‘ 

BULL¥rixcH.—1, W. Burniston, Middlesbrough, 2, Miss Jones, York. 


The Judges were Mr. George J. Barnesby, Derby, and Mr. Cowper, 
York. 


ROMFORD POULTRY SHOW. 


Tuts Show was held on the 15th and 16th inst. in conjunction with 
that of the Essex Agricultural Society, but as poultry and Pigeons are 
not amongst the fancies of the members of that Society, the Show was 
managed by a local Committee. An extra charge for admission was 
made, and from the number of people who paid their shillings we 
should fancy it must have proved a great success. 

The birds were exhibited under a tent, which was not nearly large 
enough to held the number sent, consequently they were much dis- 
tressed from the intense heat and want of air. many cases it was 
impossible to see the birds in the pens from the want of light and bad 
arrangement. We noticed many ladies declined venturing down the 
dark, narrow, crowded, and badly ventilated alley where their favourites, 
the Bantams and Pigeons, were shown. Under these adverse cireum- 
stances the Judge must have had great difficulty in making his awards. 
Still the judging was very satisfactory, and we were glad to find a 
proper notice had been taken of the hen, the prizes not merely going 
to the best cock alone, but to the best pair. Coloured Dorkings were 
an eyen lot, in capital condition. The first-prize birds were uncom- 
monly good, closely pressed by the second; the cock was hardly in 
such fine feather as the other. The class for Any other variety was 
poor. Buff Cochins were few, but good. The third-prize cock had 
horribly scurvy legs and feet, as had also some of the Partridge 
Cochins. Dark Brahmas were good, and mostly well shown, especially 
Mr. Lingwood’s bird. The first-prize Light cock was a grand bird, 
but he had with him an inferior hen, while in the second-prize pair 
was a capital hen matched with a faircock. The Judge had evidently 
carefully weighed them together, and given the first prize to the best 
pair. Game were good in quality and feather. The second-prize 
cock, a Brown Red, was a large rakish-looking fellow, and would no 
doubt have been first had not one of his sickle feathers been broken. 
A very fair pair of Piles were third in the Any variety class. The 
first-prize Spanish were a long way ahead of the others. The 
second-prize cock had on one side of his face a large dry scab; the 
third was a good bird with a bad hen, but we liked another pen better 
than either of these. The whole class was above the average for the 


418 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURH AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ Juaa 22, 1871. 


time of year, and with one or two exceptions, the birds were well shown. 
Hamburghs were very inferior, and call for no remark; one exhibitor 
sent two hens in place of one, and the second-prize Spangled cock 
hada frothy running at one eye. Lolands only had two entries. 
French were a good class, the first prize going to La Fléche. Game 
Bantams were numerous, but as to the quality we can say nothing, the 
want of light prevented one from forming an opinion, and however the 
Judge managed under the difficulties to award the prizes was a mystery 
to us, and we certainly thought we saw a commended pen better than 
the winners, but possibly the darkness might have deceived us. Ayles- 
bury Ducks were not in form; Rouen were better. The first-prize 
drake we recognised as a previous winner. Geese and Turkeys were 
few, and of moderate quality. 

The Pigeons were not numerous, but there were some very good 
birds sent, particularly the Carriers, Tumblers, and Dragoons. 

There were twenty-five entries of Rabbits, and amongst them we 
noticed some very large and long-eared ones. They were placed on the 
ground, so that one could see nothing but their backs, unless you laid 
flat on the ground. 


Dorxmes.—Coloured.—, F. Parlett, Great Baddow. 2, W. Tippler, Roxwell. 
8, J. Norman, Colchester. hc, J. Norman; J. Webb, Romford. Any other 
Variety.—1, F. Tearle, Newmarket (White). 2, G. Hine, Dorking (Blue-speckled). 
8, J. Drake, Ongar. 

Cocuixs.—Buff.—1. H. Lingwood, Needham Market. 2, H. Lloyd, jun., Bir- 
Soe e 8, J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury. Any other Variety.—1 and 2, H. Ling- 
wood. 

Braumas.—Dark.—l, J. H. Cuff, Holloway. 2, H. Lingwood. 8,J. Hill, Brent- 
wood. he, G. Griggs, Romford. c.H. Dowsett, Chelmsford. Light.—l and 
8, J. Pares, Guildford. 2. F. Crook, Forest Hill. 

GameE.—Black-breasted and other Reds.—1, F. Harding, jun.. Chingford Hatch. 
2and 8, S. Matthew, Stowmarket. c,J. Jeken, Eltham. Any other Variety — 
land3,S. Matthew. 2,J.H. Salter, Tolleshunt D’Arcy. 

SpantsH.—l, Nicholls Brothers, Camberwell. 2, R. Wright, Holloway Road. 
8, J. Norman, Colchester. 

Hampurcus.—Gold or Silver-pencilled—1, W. K. Tickner, Ipswich. 2, G. 
Hines ‘ Gold or Silver-spangled.—i, L. Wren, Lowestoft. 2, F. Tearle, New- 
market. 

PoLANDS (Any variety).—1 and 2, W. Patrick, Lynn. 

Frencxw Fowts (Any variety).—1, J. K. Fowler. 2, J. S. Price, Potters Bar. 
8, W. Tippler. he, W. Lee. Hornchurch. c, W. Boucher, Notting-hill. 

BantTaMs.—Game.—l, G. B. Francis, Romford. 2 and 8. C. H. Webb, Chelms- 
ford. he, Rev. F. Cooper, Cirencester. c, W. B. Jeffries (2). Any other 
Variety.—1, F. Tearle. 2,G.B. Francis. 8, J. Simmons, Ongar. 

Ducss.—Aylesbury.—l and 2, J. K. Fowler. c, W. Tippler. Rouen.—1, G. 
Hine. 2,H. Dowsett. Any other Variety.—l, Miss Mashiter. 

GEESE.—1, W. Tippler. 2,G. Hine. hc, Miss J. Mashiter. 

TurKEYS.—1, Mrs. J. Mayhew. 

SELLING CLass.—l and c, D. C. Campbell, M.D. 2,H. Dowsett. 3, E. Sheer- 


man. 
PIGEONS. 

CarrieRs.—l, H. Yardley, Birmingham. 2, H. M. Maynard, Ryde. 

PovTers.—l, H. Yardley. 2, H. Laver, Colchester (White). 

TumBLeRs.—Almond.—1 and2, J. Ford. Any other variety Short-faced.— 
1, W. Barnes, Romford (Black). 

Ow1s.—l, H. Yardley. 

Barps.—l, H. Yardley. 2, H. M. Maynard. c, D. P. Gooding, Colchester 
(Black); D. Robertson. Romford. 

Fantars.—l, H. M. Maynard (White). 2, H. Yardley. 

Jacopins.—l, H. M. Maynard. 

ANTWERPS.—1, H. Yardley. 2, J. Webb. 

TRUMPETERS.—1, E. Sheerman, Springfield. 

DraGcoons.—l, A. W. Wren, Lowestoft. hc, F. Graham, Birkenhead. 

Runts.—l, J. S. Price. 2, H. Laver. 

ANY OTHER Varrety.—l, Mrs. J. Cross, Brigg. 2, H. Yardley. 

Rassrts.—Lop-eared.—Buck.—1, A. Harvey. 2, C. King. he,J. Quick. c¢, T. 
J.Iman; A. Harvey. Doe.—l and2, C. King. he, J. Quick. c, T. J. Inman; 
A. Harvey. Heaviest (Any kind).—1, W. Arkwright, Chesterfield. 2, A. H. 
Easten. Any other Variety—l, C. King. St. John’s Wood. 2, J. Boyle, jun., 
Blackburn. he, S. G. Hudson, Hull; J. Boyle, jun.; A. H. Easten; C. King. 


JupcE.—Mr. Tegetmeier. 


THORNE POULTRY SHOW. 


No show of poultry and Pigeons at Thorne has been nearly so gocd 
as that held last week, but, unfortunately, in a continuous downpour 
of rain that must haye very seriously affected the receipts. Such 
weather is a calamity to any committee; but it is only justice to say 
that the Committee, as a body, and Mr. Micklethwaite, the Honorary 
Secretary, did all that could be done to make everyone as comfortable 
as the circumstances permitted. The pens and general arrangements 
were, as they always are at Thorne, very good, but if submission to 
the rule that all specimens must be penned by 10 a.m. were strictly 
enforced, it would prevent the possibility of complaint from those 
owners whose punctuality was admitted, and be in perfect fairness to 
every exhibitor. 

Scarcely ever so far north has so generally good a class of Spanish 
fowls been on exhibition; they would have been a treat to visitors 
even at a Bristol or London show. Cochins and Brahmas showed 
badly, though good specimens were exhibited, the constancy of the 
rain destroying for the time all their beauty, and Brahmas seemed 
equally at a disadvantage. As for the Grey Dorl:ings they were 
almost wholly shown ont of feather, but the Game classes were perfect. 
Miss Mary Fletcher may well be proud of her laurels, some of the 
very best birds in the kingdom being competitors. Miss Fletcher and 
Mr. Aykroyd were the cup-winners with specimens that, for condition, 
could not be surpassed. As might be expected, the Hamburghs and 
Polands, many of which were perfectly saturated with the rain, cut a 
very sorry figure, yet these classes contained the very best birds of the 
present day. The Game Bantam class was both large and good, and 
though many visitors expressed their opinion that the Game Bantams 
were beginning to fall back to the drooping wings of former shows, we 
ourselves attzibute it entirely to the chilling weather, and the conse 
quent comfortless position of the birds on such a day. The Geese 


and Ducks were good, but had to their hearts’ content revelled in wet 
and dirt, as their position was the ground, and all these birds seemed 
equally dirty and equally happy. 

Great care and attention were given to the poultry, and not less to 
the Pigeons and Rabbits. The latter division seemed to have com- 
paratively escaped the constant rain, and was consequently seen to 
the most advantage of any portion of the Show, though even here 
visitors were few and far between, for who would come out who could 
stay at home ? 


SpanisH.—l, T. C. & E. Newbitt, Epworth. 2, H. Beldon, Bingley. he, Burch 
and Boulter, Sheffield; J. Powell, Bradford; J. Thresh, Bradford. _ 

CocuIx-Cuva.—l and 2, H. Lacy, Hebden Bridge. hc, J. Watts, King’s Heath. 
c, W. A. Burnell, Southwell. 

Brana Poorra.—l and2, H. Lacy. c,Dr. Holmes, Whitecotes, Chesterfield. 

Doxr4InG.—l, J. White, Warlaby. 2, R. W. Richardson, Meaux Abbey. ¢, W- 
Morfitt, Goole; W. Swann, Bedlington. 7 

GamE.— White and Piles.—1, Sales & Bentley, Crowle. 2, B. Jarvis, Mans- 
fiela. Black-breasted and other Reds.—1, Miss M. Fletcher, Stoneclough. 
2, Sales & Bentley. he, C. Chaloner, Whitwell; H. M. Julian, Hull. Duckwings, 
and other Greys and Blues.—1, Miss M, Fletcher. 2,C. Chaloner. he, W. Boyes, 
Beverley. Any Breed—cCup and 3, Miss M. Fletcher. 2 and he, C. Chaloner. 
Cock.—Cup, E. Aykroyd, Leeds. 2, Miss M. Fletcher. 3, T. Oldfield, Shilden. 
he, H. M. Julian, Hull; Sales & Bentley. 

HaMBURGHS.—Silver-spangled.—1, H. Pickles, jun. 2 and ec, H. Beldor. 
he, Ashton & Booth. Golden-spangled.—1, H. Pickles, jun. 2, F. Rollinson. he, F. 
Rollinson; H. Beldon. c, E. T. Gardam, Newcastle. Silver-pencilled—l, H. 
Pickles,jun. 2,H.Beldon. Golden-pencilled—i, H.Pickles,jun. 2,H. Beldon. 
Black.—1, H. Beldon. 2, no competition. . Z 

Any Varrery.—l, H. Beldon (Silver-spangled Polands). 2, H. Pickles, jun. 
(Silver-spangled Polands). hc, Mrs. J. Cross, Appleby Vicarage (Créve-Cours) > 
Mrs. B. Frank, Campsall (Creve-Ceur). Cock.—l, H. Lacy, Hebden Bridge 
(Partridge Cochin). 2,H.Beldon (Silver-spangled Poland). he, B. Jarvis, Mans- 
field (Dorking). Hens.—l, H. Beldon (Golden-spangled Polands). 2, J. Powell 
(Black Spanish). he, C. Chaloner (Black Red Game); H. Lacy (Buff Cochins) > 
— White, Driffield (Dorkings); J. Thresh (Black Spanish). Chickens.—1, K. 
Richardson (Grey Dorkings). 2, B. Jarvis (Brown Red Game). 

BantTaMs.—Game.—Cup, J. Oldroyd, Wakefield. 2, Sales & Bentley. 3, Messrs. 
Newbitt. hc, Messrs. Newbitt; W. Adams, Ipswich. c, Messrs. Newbitt; A. 
Smith, Northowram. Any variety —l, H. Beldon (Pekin). 2, S. & R, Ashton 
(Blacks). he, E. R. Turner, Boroughbridge. age 

GEESE.—l, E. Leech, Rochdale. 2, Rey. G. Hustler, Stillingfleet. 

Giss.—l, Mrs. J. Furniss, Crowle. 2, Rev. G. Hustler. 

Ducxs.—l. E. Leech (Rouens). 2, J. Williams, Wath-on-Dearne, Aylesbury. 

SErtine Crass.—l, J. Hepworth, Bearswood Green (Game). 2, G. Paltrey- 
man, jun., Heeley (Dark Brahmas). 

PIGEONS. 

Carrrers.—l, H. Yardley, Birmingham, 2, E. Horner, Hatewood. ¢, Ee 
Brown, Sheffield. 

Pouters.—l, E. Horner. 2, R.P. Moon, Driffield. he, H. Yardley; G. Sadler, 
Boroughbridge. c, H, Adams, Beverley. 

TumBLERS.—1, H. Yardley. 2, H. Adams. hc, E. Horner (2); H. Brown, 
Walkley; Moore, Burnley ; W. Harvey, Sheffield. 

JACOBIN 1, F. Waitt, King’s Heath, Birmingham. 2, R. G. Sanders, LeveR- 
he, Messrs. Newbitt; F. Waitt; E. Horner, Harewood. 

Nons.—l and 2. H. Yardley. 

TRUMPETERS.—1 and 2, E. Horner. hc, W. Harvey. 

TurBits.—l, H. Yardley. 2, H. Lawson, Hull. jc, E. Horner. 

Fantams.—l, H, Yardley. 2, W. H. Tomlinson, Newark-on-Trent. 

Ow1s.—l, E. Horner. 2, R. P. Moon, Driffield. 

Barss.—l and c, H. Yardley. 2, E. Horner. C % 

Ayy Varrety.—l, W. Harvey. 2, T. C. Benson, Sunderland (Turkish Blondi- 
nettes Satin). he, H. Yardley; H. Lawson, Hull (Dragoons); H. Adams (White 
Dragoons); E. Horner, Harewood; J. Watts. = 

SELLING CLAss.—l and ¢, J. E. Crofts, Blyth (Black and Yellow Magpies) 
2, C. Gravel, jun., Thorne (Kites). 

Rappirs.—Lop-eared.—Buck.—1, C. Gravel. jun. 2,A.H. Easten, Hull. Doe. 
—Cup, C. Gravel, juu. 2, H. Ridley, York. hc, A. Creases, Loversall Hali, 
Doncaster; J _J.S. Clarke, Hatfield; A. H. Easten; S. Andrews, Sandall. Anv 
Variety), W. H. Tomlinson, Newark (Himalayan). 2, Master T. G. Woodley 
Thorne. hc, H. Cawood, Thorne. 


Mr. Edward Hewitt, of Birmingham, and Mr. John Douglas, of 
Clumber, were the Judges. 


IN THE FANCY—STROUD CANARY SHOW. 
(Continued from page 413.) 


A FRIEND writes, “You are a long while in getting to Stroud.” 
Don’t blame me, it all lies at Jenner’s door. Vaccination is a great 
institution, but decidedly opposed to the development of idea in the 
subject. I admit the beauty and simplicity of the process. IL willingly 
concede that the little hermetically sealed capillary glass tubes are 2 
great advance on the glass squares and ivory points of a bygone day. 
The double-pointed lancet, too, is a nice little instrament—very, and 
yery sharp as well. The projection of the tiny globule of pure lymph 
is most interesting. I admit it all. The whole thing is invested with 
a character no doubt fascinating to the medical ‘‘ fancy” in its mys- 
terious action. Still, that is no reason why I should have allowed an 
enthusiastic disciple of Esculapius and devout believer in Jenner, a 
man who bathes in Condy’s fluid and scents his handkerchief with 
carbolic acid, to operate on me after the fashion of the man in the 
market-place, who undertakes to remoye “corns, warts, hor bunions,’” 
or to take “pitch stains, tar stains, wine stains, grease stains out 
of silks, satins, bombazines, or any material whatever,” and failing 
success to offer himself up a sacrifice to ontraged popular opinion, and 
haye his head ‘taken off at the block!” But I did. Im an eyil 
moment I turned up my shirt sleeve and permitted that deyotee of 
vaccine science to ‘puncture my epidermis.” That's what he called 
it—puncture my epidermis. And that’s how it is I haye been so long 
in getting to Stroud. 

I was disappointed in not meeting ‘‘ Wintsurre Rector” there, 
for I had promised myself a walk round the tents with him, and a few 
lessons on poultry and Pigeons, about which I know comparatively 
nothing. My duties lie in the last of four (I think) long white tents, 
which contained the 1237 entries of Stroud Show. I must admit that 
at the first glance the large pens with their stately occupants threw 


June 22, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


449 


the small show cages and their tiny tenants into the shade. For a 
raoment, only a moment—and I most penitently confess my sin—I 
thought the Canary looked small beside the great lumbering Cochin ; 
but when I ventured to suggest that poultry-fanciers had certainly 
done much good in producing such flesh-bearing birds, and modestly 
inquired if they laid correspondingly large eggs, my cicerone turned 
en me with a look—such a look!—pity, horror, contempt, scorn, all 
combined ; and with one word, ‘‘ Feather, sir, feather!” he took an 
early opportunity of leaving me. And so I turned to the Canaries 
again, a wiser man; and as they seemed to welcome me with a cheer- 
ful song, and not a noise something between a howl and a groan, which 
the Cochins were busy rehearsing, I thought that if it were neither a 
question of flesh nor eggs, but simply feather, then the one ‘‘ fancy” 
was as good as the other. Chacun a son goiit. 

A Canary Show in the month of May is unusual. Most of the best 
birds are either up for breeding, or are so out of condition from a long 
exhibition season as to be laid on the shelf. But there was a very 
ready response to the Stroud schedule, which, so far as Canaries are 
concerned, if issued at another time of the year, would command that 
attention of the principal All-England men which it deservedly merits. 

It will be unnecessary to refer to the prizewinners very minutely, 
many of them having appeared on the stage before. In Clear Buff 
Norwich Mr. Close, of Derby, was somewhat indebted for his first 
place to the comparatively uncertain light of early morning filtered 
through the canvas covering. A large bird of fair colour, it showed to 
advantage under a not very strong light; but the midday sun developed 
more quality in 1057, Mr. Walter, who under other circumstances 
would probably have been first. 

The Variegated Jonque Norwich contained some very excellent birds, 
Moore & Wynne taking first with their old bird, and Mr. Close second 
with a remarkably good specimen, marked on each wing, and having a 
fair cap, superior in quality to 1073; Moore & Wynne third, marked 
wings, eyes, and cap. Variegated Buff Norwich were not superior, 
1080, Mr. Close, approximating most nearly to exactness, but short of 
quality. Moore & Wynne were first, second, and third in ‘‘ Any other 
Variety ’ with three grand crests which have done good battle before. 

Belgians were not up to the mark. The very busy character of the 
surroundings was against their performing well. 

Mr. Ashton sent some good Lizards. They must have been laid up 
in layender purposely for Stroud, showing none of the signs of matri- 
monial squabbles which many birds present at this period of the year. 
Mr. Mackley’s were also good. Mr. Ashton was first in ‘‘ Any other 
Variety” with a superb Coppy, and Mr. Close second with Variegated 


Cinnamon, which would make many a north countryman’s mouth |} 


ter. 

Goldfinch Mules (variegated) were not in good condition. But what 
can you expect in May? Dark Mules were better, the first Mealy 
bird being one of a kind bad to beat. 

‘“Any other variety of Mule” contained the usual curious hybrids— 
Bullfinch-Goldfinch, Bullfinch-Linnet, Canary-Linnet, &c. Mr. A. 
Webster, jun., was first with Bullfinch-Goldfinch, but it was a near 
thing between it and Mr. Ashton’s bird, a similar hybrid. Mr. Spence’s 
well-known Linnet-Canary Mule was second. Mr. Barnesby showed 
a fine specimen of this cross, a bird. full of colour and well marked. 
Tam not certain whether my description is quite exact, but when I 
say marked neatly on each wing and head all dark I think I am sufi- 
ciently near to convey a just idea of it. 


British birds were good, especially the Goldfinches. The first and 


second, Mr. W. Arkwright and Capt. Hawkins Fisher, were nice birds. | 


The first, although a little injured in plumage, was to my eye a Gold- 
finch extraordinary. Mr. Harrison’s Skylark was a picture. 

Foreign birds were well represented, comprising about thirty entries, 
conspicuous among which were two American Horned Owls and an 
“‘ Australian Magpie or Laughing Jack,” whose chief performance ap- 
peared to be a habit of falling into his water-dish and struggling to get 
ont of it. 

I find I haye only just time to send this to the post. 
next week on Canary management.—W. A. Buaxston. 


A few words 


RABBITS AT STROUD SHOW—AWARDS BY 
POINTS. 


I was glad to see from the report in your Journal of the 
Stroud Show, and also from the remarks by Mr. Rayson, that 
it had been a success, and so far as I know I believe Mr. Ray- 
gon’s decisions have given satisfaction to the exhibitors. But 
what I have to complain of is, that the cup should have been 
given to Mr. King for a lot of second and third-class Rabbits, 
instead of to the best Rabbit with the most points. I entered 
a Rabbit which took the first prize in its class; I also entered 
it for the cup, believing this was to be given to the Rabbit pos- 
sessing the most points of merit, and you may judge of my 
surprise when I found that the points had to be taken out of 
second and third-class, Rabbits to defeat the first-class ones. I 
think this anything but satisfactory. Had the Committee said 
that a cup would be given to the most successful exhibitor there 
could have been no misunderstanding or dissatisfaction. I 
hope next year, if a cup be given, it will go to the best speci- 


men in the show, or else let it be perfectly understood that it 
will be given to the most successful exhibitor; then those with 
but one or two good Rabbits need not enter, and those with 
second and third-class ones can do so. But I cannot see much 
honour in any person taking silver cups with second and third- 
class cattle, poultry, Pigeons, or even Rabbits, in preference to 
first-class ones.—J. Hume. 


AN IRISH BEE-KEEPER’S MANY DIFFICULTIES 
AND QUERIES. 


On examining the super of my Woodbury hive, I find the 
bars are moveable, as the crown-board can be unscrewed and 
taken off. But of what use are these bars in a super except to 
put a stop to: breeding by means of them as soon as it is dis- 
covered, taking out the bar and comb and cutting out the 
brood? Yet I cannot see how the bar and comb can be taken 
out when the latter is fastened at the sides and below. Of 
what use, then, are those bars in the super? My super is 
13 inches by 13 (inside), and 6 inches deep, with eight bars. 
How much honey will it contain ? 

One of my stock hives swarmed yesterday (June Sth), and as 
Thad no empty hive in which to put the bees, in order to 
shake them from it in the evening in a cloth, and so hive them 
in my new Woodbury, by putting this over them, I took the 
crown-board off the Woodbury, put on it a bottomless and 
topless box 14 inches by 14 inches, and 6 inches deep, and 
shook the cluster of bees into this. I then covered the in- 
tervening box with the hive’s crown-board, and when all was 
quiet removed it to its stand, facing north, as do all my hives. 
Now, here was the Woodbury hive with 6 inches space between 
the top of the bars and the top of the crown-board. I hoped 
that during the night the bees would go down among the 
frames. To-day (June 9th) I donned my bee dress, and lifting 
the crown-board found the bees in a cluster attached toit. I 
lifted it as high as my shoulders to allow of the bottcmless 
topless box being removed. This done I shook the bees as” 
well and as gently as I could, down into the frames. Is it not 
curious that they had made a lump of comb about as big as a 
hen’s egg on the crown-board just when they clustered? I re- 
moved it, it was quite soft, and I stuck it as best I could ina 
corner of one of the frimes. 

In the crown-board of my Woodbury there are three openings, 
with their covers or stoppers. In a floor-board belonging to 
the super already mentioned there are only two, the long slits. 
Now, in putting on this super am I to remove the hive’s crown- 
board, and if so, what am I to put, or am Ito put anything, 
between the hive and the super? Is the board that is with the 
super and has the two slits meant to go between, for if I put it 
even aud straight on the top of the super the slits are closed by 
the bars? Can glasses, &c., be worked on the top of this super ? 
If so, would not the hive’s crown-board be suitable for working 
three at a time, one on each slit, and one on the round hole ? 
If drones and the queen were excluded by the slits in the 
board between the hive and the super, surely no opening how- 
ever large would be objectionable above that. 

When a queen of the Ligurian breed is introduced into a 
native stock, will not her progeny be hybrids, unless she has 
been impregnated by Ligurian drones before leaving? If those 
‘big? bee-keepers whose notes appear in the Journal, were to 
preserve the bits of combs containing queen brood when they 
excise all the royal cells, and were to forward them carefully 
packed in wadding to their purchasers, would not that Lea 
safer way of ligurianising a bar-frame than sending a live queen? 
Could not comb containing Ligurian drone brood be likewise 
sent?—A Ganway BEE-KEEPER. 


(Perhaps the chief reason for having bars in supers, is to be 
enabled to remove the combs—after the filled super is taken off 
the hiye—entire and without waste or crushing. They are 
also useful when brood in them happens to be discovered. 
There is not the slightest difficulty in removing the bar and 
comb, even if fastened to the sides, if a properly curved honey 
knife be used. The combs are seldom fastened to the surface 
of the board below. Perhaps a super of the dimens‘ons you 
mention would contain 25 lbs. to 30 lbs. The swarm hived as 
described would be sure to cluster in the top box, ard it was 
not at all curious that a piece of comb attached to tle crown- 
board should have been commenced. ‘The adapter, or loose 
bottom of the super, is intended to be placed on a toard or 
top having similar side openings. The central hole in the 
cover of the stock hiye is intendel chiefly for feeding when 


450 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 22, 1871. 


necessary. If liked, the crown-board can be removed alto- 
gether, and the adapter only, between the super and the bars, be 
used. Glasses are not placed on the top of the super. You 
had better obtain ‘“‘Langstroth on the Honey Bee,” which 
though not treating of the management of the Woodbury hive, 
is the best authority as regards the working of frame hives 
generally. It may be obtained through any bookseller, The 
progeny would assuredly be hybrid. The inmates of the royal 
cells so excised and sent to a distance, would be dead before 
they could be inserted in the combs of the hives intended for 
them; nor would the transmission of brood comb be likely to 
be attended with more fortunate results. | 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


W. Jackson, Blakedown, Kidderminster, has had postage stamps sent 
to him for Spanish fowls’ eggs, and has not sent them to E. Hall, Chelms- 
ford, nor yet replied to his letters. 


“TT. H. Kinsnaw, 4, Kensington Street, Kensington, near Liverpool, is 
well known. I have had several applications from him for valuable birds. 
He is supposed to go by many other names, including J. R. Reed, 
Wavertree, near Liverpool, and of Lea Green, near, Rainhill, Lanca- 
shire, &c.—J. H. Watxrns, Byford.” 

G. W. Coorer.—Mr. Bulmer, of Spalding, says he sent him Black Barb 
Pigeons and was not paid. 


BEDLINGTON SHow.—Mr. Yardley took the first prize for Carriers, and 
not the second as reported. 


UNDUBBED GAME Cock (4 Subscriber).—He would have no chance of 
winning unless dubbed. 


BANTAMS WITH Dorxines (North Devon Farmer).—You may safely act 
on the opinion of the ‘ Wiutsuire Recror.” We have kept Bantams 
and large fowls together for years without any “ mésalliance.” 


CuHickENS DyinG (C, A. W.).—That which reared the first should rear 
those that follow them. You on the spot should be better able to ascer- 
tain the cause of failure than we are. What has the alteration been in 
the treatment and management? When chickens have neither gapes nor 
catarrh we seek for some other cause for discontent and death. There 
is a favourite theory in the present day, that all diseases spring from 
parasites, and we believe your chickens die from them and their effects. 
These latter are constant restlessness, dissatisfaction with everything, 
loss of appetite, perishing of body, and final “ give it up.” The cure ig 
to provide them in all their haunts with wood ashes, road grit, and brick- 
layers’ rubbish. As soon as they bask in either of these, the parasites 
are done away with. If none of these are at hand—and in wet weather it 
is sometimes difficult to find dust of any kind—then dip the end of your 
finger in oil, put a few drops under the wing, on the back, and at the poll. 
As they require support give them some bread steeped in strong ale. You 
will also do well to have plenty of camphor in all their water. 

Fowxs For Eae-propucine (EZ. R. P.).—For egg-producers, we advise 
you to keep Brahmas. For the table, the Brahma is improved by being 
crossed with the Dorking. The best plan is to put a Dorking cock to 
Brahma hens. If the best quality of poultry is desired, it will be far 
better to keep pure Dorkings. They are the best table fowls in the 
world. 


GurInEA Fowts (Idem).—They are fond of choosing their own roosting 
places, and have a preference for trees, but where they have been ac- 
customed to a houce they will go into it to roost. They almost always 
steal thzir nests, They should be kept in pairs, as they are monogamous. 
They are not particularly quarrelsome, but no birds should roost with 
fowls, a fowl-house should be devoted exclusively to fowls. 


FEATHER-EATING Fowts (G. H. P.).—We can tell you n> eure, except 
giving your fowls their liberty. We suffer from it with bii'~ that are in 
confinement, but never when they are at liberty. A liberal supply of 
‘green food, especially lettuce, tends to lessen the propensity. 


SHEEP’s PAUNCH (Subscriber)—We do not know whether that par- 
ticular part of a sheep is good for poultry, but all cooked meat chopped 
fine is good feeding. Anyone who can discover good and cheap food 
mull be a benefactor, but our experience is, as a rule, cheap things are 

ear. 


Sitrver-Grey Dorxines (An Old Subscriber).—We have no difficulty 
in rearing, nor do we think them more delicate than any others. Our 
difficulty is about feather; so many of them offend in that particular. 
We are convinced that in breeding for feather, everyone must breed well 
and kill well. All that will not embellish a show must furnish the spit or 
the stock-pot. 


Fowis OverR-FAT, Livers DisEASED (Hants Henwife).—You over-feed ; 
we wonder your fowls lay even fairly, but they obtain other food beside 
that you name. That would not make them fat inside. Internal fat 
prevents laying, and eventually causes death from the large, pale, un- 
healthy liver. The gall is unable to circulate, and is absorbed by the 
liver. Do not change your food, but give less, and as a beginning give 
nothing, positively nothing. That will be a cure. You have probably 
gone on with the same dietary you had in the winter. Recollect they 
want less, and the grass run yields much more. 


RABBITS AT STROUD SHow (H. W.).—The longest-eared Rabbit at the 
Show at Stroud measured 224 inches by 5} inches, and some three more 
were almost equally good in the ear, and the exhibitors were Messrs. 
Easten, Gravel, King, and Ridley. 


WHITE-EYE PIGEON (Reader).—We sent your note to a good authority, 
aud he replies as follows—‘I am pleased to find that ‘ReapER’ has 
found some one to solye his problem satisfactorily. The White-eye is the 
Volant he discovers, and he now wants to know whether the White-eye, 
the Volant, and the Cupulet are not synonymous. He will yet probably 
discover that they have other names also, but the most appropriate one 
for such cross-bred birds is that of mongrel, ag I havo before said; and 
notwithstanding the book he quotes I adhere to my opinion that the 
White-eye, as described by ‘Ruapzr,’ is a cross between the inferior 


Antwerp and the Tumbler, and as such they cannot be regarded as pure 
in breed. Andif,as ‘READER’ and his informants affirm, the breed is 
imported from Belgium, I am the more satisfied of their being of the 
Antwerp race, for birds in Belgium are chiefly regarded for their homing 
properties ; purity of race and beauty being almost ignored in the en- 
deayours to propagate the best and fastest of fiying Pigeons.” 


GRUB NEAR Hive (L.).—The larva found outside your hive is not that 
of the honeycomb moth; in fact, it isnot even Lepidopterous, being that 
of one of the two-winged Syrphideous flies.—I. O. W. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 


CAMDEN SquaRE, LONDON. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Dare, 9 At. In THE Day. 
523 Shade ‘tem-| Radiation | 
1s71. |$=,9-:| Hygrome- Direc- | Temp. i ae Tempera- =| 
Bae] ter. ltion offof Soi] PEE | ture. | 
June. | 3, a3 =e eae | Wind.) fable: In On 
ASS! Dry. | Wet. Max. | Min.} sun. | grass 
Inches.| deg. | deg. deg deg. deg. | deg.| In. 
We. 14 | 29.921 | 62.8 | 60.7 Ss. 56.3 74.4 119.6 | 56.8 | 0.410 
Th. 15 | 29.861 | 63.7 | 62.7 S.E. 57.4 75.2 120.2 | 54.3 | 0.202 
Fri. 16 | 29.787 | 66.2 | 628 S.W. 68.3 76.0 112.0 | 58.3 | 0.245 
Sat. 17 | 29621 | 63.3 | 60.9 E. 59.3 68.1 86.7 | 56.4 | 0.500 
Sun.18 | 29.619 | 63.0 |} 57.1 | S.W. 58.6 72.1 114.2 | 54.2 | 0.180 
Mo. 19 | 29.584 | 62.0 | 57.1 s. 58.8 72.1 121.2 | 53.0 | 0.670 
Tu. 20 | 29.590 | 62.8 | 57.8 | N.E. 58.5 69.2 117.3 | 49.3 | 0.150 
Means | 29.712 | 63.38 | 59.9 58.2 72.4 113.0 | 54.6 | 2.307 
REMARKS. 


14th —Wet in night and early morning; fine from noon till 4 P.m,, then 
rain, with lightning at night. 

15th.—Very showery and damp till noon, then fine till 5.30P.m.; wet even- 
ing, with lightning at 10.30 p.m. 

Peer aes fine afternoon, rain from 5.30 p.m, and lightning at 
night, 

17th.—Very dark in the morning, a little sun at noon; rain commencing 
at 2.80, and continued at intervals all day, some very heavy 
showers; thunder at 3.20 p.m. 

18th.—Showery morning, fine afternoon and evening. 

19th.—Fair in morning, thunderstorm from noon to 3 P.M, very heavy 
rain and hail from 2.25 to 2.40 p.m., fine night. 

20th.—Sunshine and cloud till 1.12 pm., when thunder was first noticed, 
the storm increased for some time, and did not subside till 8 p.m, 
there having been hail at 2,29; dull and showery the rest of the day. 

A warm and very wet week, with thunderstorms, thunder and lightning 
eyery day but Sunday.—G. J. Symons, 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—JtneE 21. 


THE weather of the past week has materially interfered with the foreign 
as well as home trade, interrupting the supplies, and checking the amount 
of business that would otherwise have been dons. Importations from 
the Continent and Channel Islands comprise Grapes, Strawberries, 
Cherries, Apricots, Plums, and Figs. A second cargo of West Indian 
Pines is to hand in fair condition, fetching from 9d. to 2s. each, Heavy 
arrivals of Potatoes are reported both by rail and coastwise. 5 


FRUIT. 

gd. 3s. d 8. d. 8. ad 

Apples............3Bieve 1 6 to4 0 | Mulberries............lb. 0 0to0 0 
Apricots -.doz. 2 0 3 O| Nectarines.. 5 0 20 0 
Cherries... oe tbs) iO) 21.0 0 10 0 
Chestnuts. OS Ol 10210) 0 24 0 
WE 0) 5 : 0 00 

00 00 dessert.... 5 0 00 

4 0 8 0| Pine Apples 2 Oy Om LO ERO. 

0 0 2 0} Plums... 00 00 

2 0 2 6] Quinces 00 00 

Gooseberries . 0 6 O 8) Raspberr: Oe OSes mn O. 
Grapes, Hothou: 3 0 8 Q| Strawberrie Ret) Ge 8h 10 
Lemons......- 6 0 10 0} Walnuts.. 10 0 16 0 
Melons....eecoessee cach 40 8 0 ditto.. Zo 920 

VEGETABLES. 

5. d. 8. a 8. d. 8. @ 

Artichokes..........doz. 4 Oto 6 0| Leeks ............ 0 4t00 6 
Asparagua ........%100 4 0 8 0| Lettuce OS ied 
Beans, Kidney ....4%100 1 6 2 G| Mushrooms .. Ts S58 
Broad... . bushel 0 0 0 0} Mustard & Cress. 02 00 
Beet, Red. ...doz 2 0 8 0 90000 566 8 0 
Broccoli . . bundle 0 0 O 0 00 00 
Brussels Sprouts..sieve 0 0 O 0 80 60 
Cabbage.... «doz. 1 0 |2) 0 09 10 
Capsicums , #100 00 O00 LOR 0 
Carrots..... bunch 0 6 10 20 40 
Cauliflower. CQ Kidney...... 80 40 
1 6 2 0} Radishes .. doz. 0-6 10 

Coleworts. 8 0 6 0| Rhubarb..........bundle 0 4 0 6 
Cucumbers ........each 0 6 1 0| Savoys.......eceeess doz. 00 00 
pickling ........ doz. 0 0 0 0] Sea-kale... 00 00 
Endive.... 2 0 0 0) Shallots... ccc. lb 0 6 O09 
0 8 0 0| Spinach.. bushel 26 0 0 

0 8 0 0} Tomatoes e. doz. 2 0 8 0 

0 8 @ Oj Turnips ..........bunch 09 10 

8 0 5 OQ! VegetableMarrows..doz. 0 0 0 0 


POULTRY MARKET.—Junn 21.” 


LARGER supply, and a fair but not increasing trade. Prices conse- 
quently lower. 


8. d. 8 d 8. d. s.d 
Large Fowls 8 Oto8 6 Pigeons 0 9 to 0 10 
Smaller ditto AVeiGuml8 a 10) Rabbits 1 \ ch BS: 
Chickens .. ah) a2 0 Wild ditt 0 9 oO 10 
Ducklings 9 0 a 86 Hares a0 0 60 
Goslings . 56 6 6 0 Guinea 0.0 0 0 
Pheasants... 0 0 oO O | Grouse... FA07 00 Ose: 


June 29, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


WEEKLY CALENDAR. 


Clock 


Day Day Average Tempera- | Rain in Sun Sun Moon Moon |} Moon’s Day 
eae aos JUNE 29—JULY{5, 1871. ture aoe London. |48 years.) Rises Sets Rises, Sets Age before | aos 

Day. |Night.|Mean.| Days m. Ms, BD. by ts a tien Dae m. 8. 
29 |) TH 73.2 | 48.5 | 60.8 12 47 af3 | 18 af8 | 43 af4 | 24af1 12 3 3 / 180 
30° | F West of England Rose Show. 73.1 | 48.3 | 60.7 15 47 8)18 8/10 6] 3 2 13 3 15 | 181 
1 Ss 74.8 | 50.8 | 62.8 20 48 8) 18 8a i8le 474/81. 2 14 3 26 | 182 
2 | Sun | 4 Sunpay arrer TRINITY. 73.4 | 51.2 | 62.3 17 49 -3|]17 8] 40. 8|20 8 (e) 3 38 | 183 
3 M Meeting of Entomological Society. 74.0 | 50.2 | 62.1 19 L500 fea Wy faethe pts ose 8) lol rutehc| 16 83 49 | 184 
4 | Tu_ | Length of Day 16h. 25m. 76.1 | 50.2 | 63.2 15 51 8/16 8)16 10/40 5 17 4 0! 185 
5 Ww Royal Horticultural Society, Rose Show, | 77.1 | 50.2 | 63.7 17 52 8/16 8] 46 lO RuCT 18 4 11 | 186 

( Fruit, Floral, and General Meeting. | 

From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 74.5°, and its night tem- 
34°, on the 30th, 1863. The greatest fall of rain was 


perature 49.9°, 
1,18 inch. 


The greatest heat was 97°, on the 5th, 1852; and the lowest cold 


GARDEN PLANTS AT GIBRALTAR. 


> ITH questionable taste I dip my pen in ink, 
as my best endeavours as a descriptive 
writer will be feeble to pourtray the many 
native charms to be seen and met with on 


rock.” In undertaking such a self-imposed 
task I sigh for “the pen of a ready writer” 
to unfold to the readers of the Journal in 
panoramic order the masses of subtropical 
vegetation to be met with in every cavern, 
nook, and dell of the far-famed rock. But, most unfortu- 
nately, the notes I made twelve years since, when wander- 
ing amidst the horticultural treasures there to be seen, 
have disappeared long since from my portfolio, and I now 
must trust to memory to give but a very indistinct descrip- 
tion of the plants and trees there to be met with. 

In the first place, it is quite needless on my part to point 
out the geographical position of Gibraltar on the map of 
Europe; suffice it to say that the rock juts out into the 
waters of the Straits in the shape of an oval, or nearly so, 
the inner or land end attached to Spain by an isthmus of 
about 800 yards in width, called “the neutral ground,” or 
“north front.” The southern point jutting out into the 
waters of the Straits is called ‘Europa Point.” Being the 
southern point of the Continent of Europe, and distant 
from Africa about 10 or 12 miles, the fortress of Ceuta is 
plainly visible; and from Europa as a starting-point, let the 
reader bear patiently with me as I conduct him through 
the most interesting parts ‘to horticulture) that I can well 
remember. 

On all sides of us, and above us on the heights, are to be 
seen Prickly Pears, Aloes in masses and in full bloom, the 
Cactus in crevices of the rock, wild Thyme, Marjoram, 
and Mint, with here and there a Scotch Fir tree, and very 
many trees of Quercus Suber, Cork tree; we may well 
ponder as to the date of planting, or have they been ever 
planted ? 

The historical student on this spot may look towards 
Africa, and say to himself, It was on this spot I stand 
upon, perhaps, that the Carthaginian general addressed 
his troops after their successful passage across the Straits, 
on their march to their premeditated conquest of Rome; 
or one might imagine to himself that he was, perhaps, 
standing on the ground held sacred by the great Moorish 
kings of Granada,. where they often came at sunset to 
worship Allah and His prophet, and to cast a look of 
affection across the waters of the Straits on the land of 
their fathers. 

Let us next descend towards the city. We pass through 
a cavern or opening in part of the rock, on the road from 
Europa point to Buena Vista (a good view), and we noticed 
in some English residents’ gardens masses of subtropical 
plants, the Aloe and Cactus having the lead of all others 
in wild free growth; several very large Apricot trees loaded 
with fruit, also Pomegranate trees; and in the Hospital 
Square about one dozen beautiful Lemon and Orange trees, 
with some branches of the latter laden with ripe fruit, 

No. 585.—Vou. XX., Nuw SrErms, 


that beautiful spot, miscalled ‘the barren | 


others green, a few branches only in blossom; and we 
noticed a few very good Palms in a situation called Rosia, 
and the Vine and Fig tree reigning predominant every- 
where in wild unrestricted vegetation. 

Let us next enter the Almeida, a public square or pro- 
menade, which is surrounded by trees peculiar to the soil 
and situation, and underneath these trees the sward con- 
sists chiefly of Mesembryanthemums with their starry- 
like flowers, so beauteous just after sunset; and close by 
the Convent, or Governor's residence, were very fine plants 
of Kalosanthes bedded out and in vases. On our way to 
the market we noticed a hedge of florists’ Pelargoniums 
fencing-in a pleasure garden and tea house. 

We then enter the market. The stalls are all well filled, 
and presided over by turbaned Moors, Jews, Spaniards, 
and Portuguese—a Babel of tongues. Grapes are abun- 
dant, but not a black Grape to be seen; donkeyloads of 
Melons, both Water and Sugar kinds; Cucumbers in heaps 
everywhere about; Oranges very fine at five for a penny; 
Lemons very large, and six a-penny; and Pumpkins of a 
tremendous size, but I forget the price. I paid for Grapes, 
I think, one penny per pound. 

We next pass upwards towards the old Moorish castle, 
through what are called “the Lower Lines,’ and some 
native British Ferns are to be found. The following are a 
few which I noticed :—Asplenium Adiantum-nigrum, As- 
plenium Trichomanes, Ruta-muraria, Scolopendrium yul- 
gare, and Ceterach officinarum ; and some Castor-oil trees 
are growing wild about, with Aloes in bloom on all sides, 
the flower-stems from 10 to 20 feet in height. ape 

Very high up the rock, on our way to the signal station, 
we passed a Plum orchard, of a couple of acres in extent, 
called the Farm. We at last mount the plateau on which 


‘the signal station stands, and what a glorious sight is 


spread to our view! North of us, and one would imagine 
underneath us, is San Roque, a town about four miles 
distant from the rock. Algesiras and Tariffa can also be 
seen, the latter place memorable during the Peninsular 
war; all the blue mountains of Andulusia resemble the 
billows of the Mediterranean; let us, then, look southward 
and westward, and the rugged mountains of Africa seem as 
if ready to plunge into the waters of the Straits, while 
overhead is the union Jack, and what more appropriate 
pedestal than the rock could support that flag?—J. McD. 


BROCCOLI.—No. 3. 


Wuen the plants have two or three leaves in addition to 
the seed leaves they should be pricked off about 3 inches 
apart in nursery beds in good, fine, but not very rich soil, 
The earlier this is done the more stiff and sturdy the plants 
will be, and the less liable they will be to run to stem ; 
besides, some kinds when left to become tall and drawn in 
the seed bed are of very little good afterwards; in fact, it 
would be a saving in every way to throw them away rather 
than occupy ground with them. In pricking out, it is well 
to lift each plant with a stick, say the point of a stout 
label. In this way many of the fibres will be preserved 
and shading, however bright the weather, may be dispensed 
with, but water should be given every evening in bright 

No. 1187.—Vou. XLV., Op SEnrEs, 


452 


weather until the plants recover. The plants having become 
stout, or about 6 inches high, or I will say they were sown at 
the close of April or beginning of May, they will be fit to prick 
out at the close of May or early in Jane; and in from three 
weeks to a month after that, or early in July, they will be in 
fine condition for planting out. It is equally prejudicial to 
allow the plants to become crowded when transplanted as it is 
in the seed beds; this crowding often renders the plants lanky, 
and such seldom stand a severe winter. 

The situation for planting Broccoli should be open, for in 
shaded, and even sheltered, situations the plants are not nearly 
so hardy as in open positions. For the early kinds, however, 
sheltered situations are desirable, especially for varieties which 
come into use in December and January. For the spring and 
late kinds the situation cannot be too open. 

The soil should be rich, but nos from manure applied at the 
time of planting, for that only causes a succulent tender growth, 
the plants being more susceptible of injury from frost than 
those not stimulated by fresh manure. Jresh loamy soil is 
undoubtedly the best, as the plants are not so liable to suffer 
from the maggot producing club, finger and toe, or ambury, ag 
in old rich garden soil. Fresh soil, or that whieh has been 
recently taken in, will be benefited by a dressing of old ma- 
nure; for the ground having been trenched, and the surface 
soil placed at some depth, that brought to the surface is some- 
what inert from waut of exposure to the atmosphere, therefore 
a@ moderate dressing is useful in such a case to give the plants 
a start, whilst not stimulating them to make a very succulent 
tender growth. In such soils the plants may not grow so 
strongly, nor attain so large a sizo of head, but they are more 
hardy than those g owa in very rich soil, and have, as a rule, 
large heads for the size of the plants, and are very compact 
and of fine quality. Old garden soil it is well to trench, 
placing the surface soil at the bottom, and if the soil turned 
up be poor, as it will be if it has long lain without trenching, 
@ moderate application of old manure may be given, and 
pointed-in with a fork. The trenching has been found one of 
the best known means of preventing the club or ambury. If 
the ground is rich omit the manuring, and give a good dressing 
of lime, @ substance not so frequently used in gardens as it 
ought tobe. It is not only beneficial as a manure, but isa 
capital safeguard against insect pests. Salt is also a good ap- 
plication, and has been found very useful against club or am- 
bury. Soot is also an excellent manure with salt; and lime 
and soot ia eqaal parts, with half a part of salt, by measure, 
form oxe of the best manures for the Cabbage tribe, the 
dressing being made broadcast after the ground has been 
dug; and before planting, after the dressing, the ground 
shoud be pointed over with a fork. Half a bushel per rod is 
a good dressing. It is an excellent dressing for old worn-out 
garden soils, and all three of iss components are good insect- 
destroyers. 

Broccoli should have plenty of room. Nothing is gained by 
crowding the plants, but very often everything is lost. A dis- 
tance of 2 feet 6 inches is as near as the rows ought to be, ex- 
cept for such kinds as the Malta, 2 feet being sufficient for 
them. I prefer, however, to give all 24 feet between the rows, 
and to have the plants 2 feet apart in the rows. This I con- 
sider ample, but not too much. Where each row is to be 
planted draw a rather wide drill, but shallow, as for sowing 
Peas, and if the weather is dry water the drills well to their 
full extent, and in about six hours afterwards they will be fit 
for planting. In planting, much is gained by taking up and 
planting with a trowel instead of a dibber. The latter method 
takes more time than pulling up and dibbling, but the plants 
receive comparatively little check. 

After planting give a gentle watering, and the plants will not 
require any more unless the weather be unusually dry; then 
watering must be practised as required so as to insure the esta- 
blishing of the plants. If the weather be moist the waterings will 
not, of course, be required, but it is not good practice to wait 
for rain falling; the plants when large enough for planting 
should be put out. As a rule, they should be planted out in 
the first fortnight of July. The ground between the rows and 
about the plants should be frequently stirred with a hoe, and 
the plants earthed-up as they advance, drawing the soil around 
the stems. 

By October the plants will be at thoir best as regards growth, 
and early in that month I consider it advisable to lay them. 
The best plan is to take out the goil to the north of the end 
plant of the first row, taking out a few spits near to the stalk 
or stem, and forming a channel outwards for tho stem to lie in. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 29, 1871. 


The spade is then placed in the ground about 6 inches from 
the stem, on the opposite side, and is pressed forward to the 
plants, whilst with the other hand the head is inclined to the 
north and brought to the ground, so that the stem rests in the 
channel. The soil from the next plant is placed over the stem, 
so as to cover it to the head, and the opening made by intro- 
ducing the spade is closed. In this way the whole is done, 
plant after plant, and row after row. It is necessary to havea 
boy to hold the plants whilst the soil is being placed on the 
stems. It should be put down firm, so as to keep the plants 
in their proper position, the soil being gently pressed. Another 
plan is to take up the plants with balls, and lay them in with 
their heads inclined to the north, they being planted so near 
that the leaves touch, but not very closely. In laying-in, or 
planting, the whole of the stem is covered with soil, leaving 
nothing out but the leaves. This is also a good plan, but the 
heads are small—considerably smaller than those which are 
laid in where grown or without transplanting. As a rule, by 
the former plan the stems will be so long as to reach the ridge 
of the next row, so that they will have the neck somewhat 
raised, a3 is should be—the necks of the plants should be a few 
inches higher than the general level. 

The laying-in should be done in good time, so that the plants 
may have time to form fresh roots before severe weather sets 
in, to effect which it is necessary to operate whilst there is 
heat in the ground. The laying-in giving a check to growth, 
tends to ripen the juices of the plant, and it is as a consequence 
more hardy. In all but very cold climates the laying-in may 
be done early in November. It is best practised in moist 
weather. 

Another plan of affording protection is that of planting s0 as 
to leave an interval of about 4 feet between every two rows. 
The preferable plan, however, is to plant the first row with 
Cauliflowers, then to have two rows of Broccoli, the fourth row 
Cauliflowers, and every third row after that the same, the two 
rows between being of Broccoli. In this case the plants may 
be planted 2 feet apart every way, and every third row coming 
off before or by November, a space of 4feet will be available 
between every two rows of Broccoli. The goil is taken from & 
trench 2 feet wide between these rows, and placed so as to 
cover the stems of the Broccoli; in fact, they are earthed-up 
in the same way as Celery. This being done, a check is given 
to growth by the cutting away of some of the fibres on one side; 
this tends to cause a concentration of the juices, whilst the 
earth protects the stems from injury by frost. It is considered 
desirable by some to give a dressing of salt after the earthing- 
up, applying it on a dry day; and that it may not enter 
the young tender hearts, it should be scattered sideways along 
the ridges, and so that it may not touch more than the old 
leaves, which it will not injare. The object of using the salt is 
to keep the plants from being frosted at the neck. The salt 
may be applied at the rate of ten bushels per acre. The whole 
may then, or before severe frost, be covered up with stable 
litter, covering the whole, and especially about the plants. In 
very severe weather mats, straw covers, or other materials, may 
be used for protection, to be left on as long as the frost con- 
tinues, but when thoroughly thawed remove it, and likewise do 
so whenever the weather is mild. The manure will form an 


-excellent dressing for the ground. It may be drawn into the 


spaces between the rows in March, and the intervals between 
the Broccoli may be sown with Peas that do not require & 
greater width between the rows than 6 feet, and between 
the Peas again, where the Brcccoli stands, Celery may be 
grown. 

When the heads are appearing it is well to turn the leaves 
over them, so as to prevent their being exposed to the weather. 
This may be done by half breaking through those leayes which 
can be turned over the head. The heads soon become of a 
yellow colour when exposed to the atmosphere, and are not 
only not white, a point of perfection in a good Broccoli, but are 
much coarser-flavoured. 

The plants are sometimes attacked by caterpillars, for which 
there is no remedy go good as hand-picking, and dusting 
the leayes early in the morning whilst the dew is on them 
with quioklime or dry soot, both of which are good appli- 
cations. : 

The Brassica apbis attacks Turnips and all the Cabbage 
tribe. Last year it did considerable mischief in the north, 
rendering whole fields of Turnips completely useless. It will 
not yield to soot or lime, nor even galt; the only effectual 
remedy is to syringe the plants, or water them overhead 
through a fine-rosed watering-pot, with tobacco water, adding 


June 29, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


453 


six gallons of water to one of the mantNacturer’s tobacco 
water.—G, ABBEY. 


THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY’S 
EXHIBITION AT NOTTINGHAM. 
June 277TH. 
“ Nottingham ale, boys, Nottingham ale! 
No liquor on earth is like Nottingham ale.” 

To test the truth of which assertion of the old ballad five 
Fellows of the Society sat in conclave at one of the Nottingham 
inns the eyening previous to the Exhibition opening—five 
“Fellows” alike only in their devotion to gardening, as will 
be well apparent from their ‘‘ notes and queries.’ One, such 
es Czar liked, ‘‘sleek-headed, and sleeping well o’ nights,” 
ebserved in a tone savouring of inquiry as much as of assertion, 
“‘The Society came here because it’s close to the ‘ dukery;’ 
the President’s one of the dukes.’’ His neighbour, a thin tall 
“« Fellow,” like Shakespere’s ‘‘ culler of simples,” added, ‘‘ Ah! 
and townsmen came down liberally.” The third ‘ Fellow,” a 
bit of a bookworm, said it was ‘‘ appropriate too, for Charles 
the First first unfurled his standard here;’’ but the other 
“Fellows” grunted at that, and No. 4 ‘‘hoped the Society 
would make a better fight than Charlos did.” All four seemed 
by one impulse to turn to the fifth ‘‘ Fellow,” asif he were 
likely to serve as an index of the Nottingham things worth 
seeing and knowing. In reply he was somewhat tedious, and 
we will record but a fragment or two of his antiquarian lore. 
“Hach of us has drunk down to more than a peg of this ‘ Not- 
tingham ale,’ but I daresay you do not know how it came to 
ke famous. One of my father’s servants was a Nottingham 
woman, and she said that a relative who kept the ‘ Panch Bowl’ 
in Peck Lane of this town brewed most seductive ale, and that 
his brother wrote thus— 

“ Ye doctors, who more execution have done 
With bolus, and potion, and powder, and pill, 
Than hangman with halter and soldier with gun, 
Or miser with famine, or lawyer with quill; 
To dispatch us the quicker you forbid us malt liquor, 
Till our bodies grow thin and onr faces look pale: 
Observe them who pleases. What cures all diseases 
Is a comforting dose of good Nottingham ale. 
Nottingham ale, boys, Nottingham ale! 
No liquor on earth is like Nottingham ale.” 

The ‘‘ Nottingham ale” had done its work upon the fifth 
“« Fellow,” and he went on prosing about what ‘our Journal 
had said of George London helping to bring Princess Anne to 
Nottingham,” and then about its market place, where, he said, 
“ More than a century since the market gardeners stood in the 
Long Row up to Chapel Bar, and sold their Potatoes for 6d. per 
peck, and their Peas for 4d. Eggs then sold on an average of 
forty for 1s., and fowls for 1s. 6d. per couple.” 

“Ab! you told about Charles unfarling his standard here. 
My great grandfather remembered that, and said the words on 
it, ‘Give to Cesar his due,’ should have been ‘ Give to each 
his due.’ It was stuck up where the Infirmary grounds now 
are.’ 

“Nottingham potteryware was in much request a century 
and a half since, but one Wedgwood outdid it.” 

‘« Those bells you hear are at St. Peter’s, and onone of them 
is this inseription— 

* Our voices shall with joyful sound 
Make hills and valleys echo round.’ 
And I hope the echo will be repeated by other chimes, and 
summon from far as well as near visitors to our Exhibition. 
Now, those bells remind me that Cuartes DEERtNG lived, died, 
and was buried in the parish of St. Peter’s. Ah! his house 
was by the side of that churchyard, and he was buried facing 
that house; but the house was pulled down to make way for 
Albert Street, and his gravestone with others used for pave- 
ment.” [Can this be?—Eps. ] 

‘Who was Charles Deering?” asked the ‘ sleck-headed”’ 
Fellow. 

“Who! Why, the man who wrote one of the first local 
Floras and the first loeal history in England.” 

We humbly confess that, like the ‘‘ sleek-headed” Fellow, 
we had not a clear recollection of this noteworthy man of Not- 
tingham, so we turned to a good printed authority, and find as 
follows :-— 

“Charles Deering was a native of Saxony. He took his degrees in 
physic at Leyden, and came to England first, in the train of a foreign 
ambassador. This happened about the year 1720. He practised physic 
and midwifery in London; and having a strong Dias to the study of 


botany, became one of the members of the society established by Dr. 
Dillenius and Mr. Martyn, which subsisted from the year 1721 to 1726. 
_ “In the year 1736 he removed to Nottingham, at the recommenda- 
tion of Sir Hans Sloane. At this time he was married; but his wife 
did not long survive the removal to that place. He was at first well 
received, and is said to have been very successful in his treatment of 
the small-pox, which disease was highly epidemical at that place, soon 
after his settling there. He published ‘An account of an improved 
method of treating the small-pox’ in 1737, and to his honour be it 
remembered his regimen was the cool one, which at that time had been 
adopted by very few. 

“Dr. Deering showed his attachment to his botanical pursuits by 
his assiduity in collecting such ample materials for his catalogue in 
less than two years after fixing at Nottingham. He published it in 
1738 under the following title :—‘ A catalogue of plants naturally grow- 
ing and commonly cultivated in divers parts of England, more especi- 
ally about Nottingham.’ 

‘The arrangement is alphabetical, and the number of plants about 
850. The author was particularly attached to the subjects of the 
Cryptogamia class, in which his researches had been very successful. 
Of the number above mentioned, more than two hundred belonged to - 
the orders of Fungi, Musci, and Algw; among which, we meet with 
twenty-seven which he considered ag nondescripts, and ten others not 
to be met with in the third edition of Ray’s Synopsis. He was assisted 
in this branch by his correspondence with the learned professor at 
Oxford, who considered some of his discoveries as new, and speaks of 
his knowledge and assiduity in terms of applause. In Deering’s post- 
humous work, the ‘ Nottinghamia Vetus et Nova,’ there occurs a list 
of some plants discovered by the author after the publication of this 
catalogue. These are principally of the Cryptogamous kind. 

“Notwithstanding his early success, that ‘adverse fatality,’ which 
he himself alludes to in his ‘ Letter on the small-pox,’ still attended 
him. He was, unhappily, not endowed with that degree of prudence 
and equanimity of temper which are so necessary to the yractice of 
physic, insomuch that he very early lost the little interest which his 
character and success had at first gained. Besides his acquaintance 
with the ancient languages, he was master of many of the modern 
tongues. His knowledge of botany was very considerable, and will be 
perpetuated so long as Dillenius’s ‘history’ shall preserve estimation. 
He had a knowledge of designing, and was an ingenious mechanic. 
After his failure in physic, his friends attempted several schemes to 
alleviate his necessities. They procured him, among others, a com- 
mission in the regiment raised at Nottingham, on account of the 
rebellion ; but this proved more honourable than profitable to him. 
He was afterwards employed in a way more agreeable to his genius 
and talents, being furnished with materials, and enabled by the assist- 
ance of John Plumtree, Esq., and others, to write the history of Not- 
tingham, which he dedicated to the Duke of Newcastle. But he did 
not live to receive the reward of this labour. He had been troubled 
with the gout at a very early period, having been afflicted with it in his 
nineteenth year, and in the latter stage of his life he suffered long con- 
finements in this disease, and became asthmatical. Being at length 
reduced to a degree of poverty, and dependance, which his spirit could 
not sustain, oppressed with calamity and complicated disease, he died 
April 12th, 1749. Two of his principal creditors administered to his 
effects, and buried him in St. Peter’s churchyard, opposite the house 
in which he resided. 

“ He left an hortus siccus of the plants of his ‘catalogue,’ consist- 
ing of upwards of six hundred species, in eight volumes, of the quarto 
form, besides separate tables of tho Mosses, and a yolume of paintings 
of the Fungi, accurately done by his own hand. Some part, if not the 
whole, of this collection, was, I believe, purchased by the Honourable 
Rothwell Willoughby, who had been one of his benefactors while living, 
and inherited a portion of that taste which distinguished his family in 
the time of Mr. Ray. He left also a manuscript treatise, in Latin, 
‘De Re obstetricaria.’ 

“His posthumous work was published by his administrators, George 
Ayscough, printer, and Thomas Willington, druggist, under the follow- 
ing title :—‘ Nottinghamia Vetus et Nova, or, An Historical Account of 
the ancient and present State of the Town of Nottingham.” 

‘© Well,” said the ‘‘sleek-headed” Fellow, ‘‘ that beats 

§ The little smith of Nottingham, 

Who doth the work that no man can.’ 
Why, I’ve lived here more than all my life, for my father and 
mother lived here all theirs, and I never knew so much afore 
of that Deering. He’sa only just mentioned even in Allen’s 
‘‘Tilustrated Handbook”’ of this town. However, this is what 
he does say about its botanists, and some things now worth 
seeing near it.”” Saying which, ‘‘Sleek-head”’ pulled a little 
red-covered book out of his pocket and read this— 


‘Few towns have been favoured with such able botanists as Not- 
tingham. Among them may be mentioned Jobn Ray, in whom we 
have a special interest on account of his friendly connection with the 
Willoughbys of Wollaton Hall. In the next generation Dr. Deering 
arranged the plants known in his time in alphabetical order, and added 
some useful remarks on their medicinal properties. Soon after, the 
Linnzan system was adopted, and Mr. Ordoyno tabulated the plants 
of the county in his ‘Flora Nottinghamensis.’ We then have Mr. 
Jowett, followed by Dr. Godfrey Howitt, who gave us a better list of 


454 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 29, 1871. 


the plants of the county in his ‘Nottinghamshire Flora.’ William 
Valentine, with his superior microscopic knowledge, took up the Mosses ; 
and that valuable work, the ‘Muscologia Nottinghamensis’ was com- 
menced by Howitt and Valentine. Following Valentine was Mr. 
Cooper, who compiled a list of the plants of Sussex; ke received a 
silver medal from the London Botanical Society. And last, but not 
least, was the late lamented Dr. Mitchel, a very dear friend of the 
writer. The plants of this Cemetery will not be so subject. to change 
as those of the neighbourhood, where railways, drainage, and other 
extensive works, have so strangely altered the botanical fields.” 


“ Sleek-head”’ then recommended his four ‘‘ Fellows” to 
visit Highfield House, the fernery and observatory of which 
have been rendered celebrated by their favourably known owner, 
E. J. Lowe, Esq. He also recommended them to journey fur- 
ther, and revel among the Roses of the Rey. Reynolds Hole at 
Caunton Manor, near Newark, and he very truly observed that 
there is a vigour in the tree-life of Nottinghamshire which 
one looks for in vain round London; in its famed forest of 
Sherwood, which at one time formed part of a vast tract of 
forest land extending from Nottingham to York, there are Oaks 
which must have been old in the days when Robin Hood and 
his ‘‘ merrie men”’ feasted unbidden guests on the king’s deer, 
and tempest-torn and storm-beaten some of them yet remain, 
majestic even in their decay. There are Oaks younger, but 
still old—very old, that are clad in verdure on each returning 
spring, giving evidence by their hale, hearty old age of a well- 
spent youth, and which, if they escaps the woodman’s axe, will 
endure for centuries stil]. But though the limits of the ancient 
forest have been much circumscribed—and it is well in the 
interest of cultivation that it should be so—though it has been 
shorn of many of its ancient ornaments and much of its former 
pride, it yet covers a vast tract of land, and one may wander 
through its green glades for hours undisturbed by sight or 
sound of man. Ont of it have arisen those great seats of gar- 
dening, Welbeck and Thoresby, and others of less extent, but 
of scarcely less note. That the natural conditions in which 
man is placed have a great influence on his mental and physical 
tendencies cannot be doubted, and it may be questioned whether 
the vigour of Nottinghamshire plant-life has not to some extent 
at least been a predisposing cause of that love of gardening 
which is so general in that shire. At the places we have 
named gardening is carried out on a princely scale, and by 
gardeners who by their energy, intelligence, and varied expe- 
rience would command success anywhere; at others, 2s Wolla- 
ton, Berry Hil], Osberton, Worksop, and many more that could 
be enumerated, things are not carried out on so grand a scale, 
but the reputation of those entrusted with the management, 
and the excellence of their productions, are proofs that there 
also the gardening is of a high order. But there is another class 
who have no princely gardens, no stately hothouses with acres 
of glass and miles of piping, whose means are of the smallest, 
but whose love of the art is of the largest, and that class is the 
operatives of Nottingham itself. They, too, are great gardeners, 
and the productions of their gardens would often put to shame 
those from places of great pretensions. More fortunate than 
their London brethren they have gardens near their homes, 
and homes within an easy distance of their work; tho London- 
dwelling man cannot have the one without sacrificing the other, 
and whichever alternative he accept each has its drawbacks. 
Railways and tramways are doing much to amend this state of 
things, but they will have to do much more before every man 
can have his rod, not rood, of ground. And how much of 
innocent pleasure, how great an aid that little space of earth is 
in resisting the temptations to which artisans (they call them- 
selves ‘‘ working men,”’ but we are all working men, with brain, 
or hand, or both), are but too prone to yield, it would be difficult 
to overestimate. There is much of heroism in these humble 
gardeners—how they have denied themselves creature comforts, 
nay, even necessaries, for the sake of their favourites, their 
ardour in the contest, their joy in success, their patience under 
defeat—all these have been told in our columns, and, if we 
mistake not, by the Rey. 8. Reynolds Hole, himself a Notting- 
hamshire man, and a very prince among Roses, in his most 
instructive and entertaining ‘‘ Book about the Rose.” There 
are bright spots in the working man’s life—would that they 
were more frequent!—and there is, too, a large amount of 
shadow, but the balance of happiness in all conditions of life, 
between class and class, and between man and man, is pretty 
evenly held. Therich man may rejoice over his costly Orchids, 
his noble Palme, or his luscious fruits; but to the poor man 
the Geranium in his window, the Fuchsia at his door, or the 
stinted, diminutive, half-acid produce of his out-door Vine, 


| gives as much happiness—as much pure happinese—to the 


household as all the most costly treasures of the hothouse. 
At the harvesting there is sunshine amidst the clouds that too 
often overshadow that little community; and the sunshine 
would be greater, the clouds fewer, were there more such harvest- 
ivgs in our land before the final harvesting when the wheat 
shall be separated fromthe cheff. But we are sermonising, and 
have landed in nubibus—but not elevated by Nottingham ale. 

Nottingham, then, offered a great prospect of success for the 
first country show at which the Royal Horticultural Society 
had, it may almost be said, a separate existence. Horticulture 
and Agriculture—we name Horticulture first, as it is the elder 
—are twin sisters; but itis too often the case that while the 
one waxes the other wanes. It has been so with Horticulture. 
Wherever she has had to encounter her more powerful sister 
she and her pertainings have sunk into nothingness; and at 
Nottingham, where the first bold stand has been made, and 
where she has first assumed her legitimate position, she has 
been honoured as is her due, and we fear not she will stand in a 
better and prouder position hereafter. It was anticipated that 
His Royal Highness Prince Arthur would open the Show, and 
the Robin Hood Rifles, one of the best-drilled volunteer corps 
in the kingdom—if not the best—furnished a guard of honour 
which was not required, as His Royal Highness could not come, 
The Mayor of Nottingham performed that duty, being escorted 
from the Uastle Lodge by the Council, officers of the Society, 
and Judges, and, arrived at the pavilion in the ground, he read 
the following address :— 


Colonel Scott, my Lords and Gentlemen, Members of the Counci? 
of the Royal Horticultural Society,—It is,my pleasure and privilege, 
as Mayor of the borough of Nottingham, to offer you, in the name of 
the inhabitants of this district, a hearty welcome on the occasion of 
your Exhibition in this Park. The peculiar nature of our manufac- 
tures has been the means of creating and fostering among our artisans 
a love of horticulture, as in its principal branch, periods of work, 
followed by corresponding periods of leisure, have furnished them with 
opportunities of cultivating this taste. The result has been that in 
the immediate neighbourhood of Nottingham more than ten thousand 
gardens of small size are held principally by the workmen of the 
borough and suburbs, who find during the cessation of their own 
duties a relaxation that is at once invigorating to the body and elevat- 
ing tothe mind. We trust that your meeting in Nottingham Park 
may strengthen and elevate this taste still further, and we hope that. 
while the Society is benefited pecuniarily, we may gain a corresponding 
advantage by serving and trying to emulate the brilliant specimens of 
horticultural excellence which your Society’s influence collects. E 
trust you will open an e hibition brilliant in its character and satisfac~ 
tory to us all in its results. 

Colonel Scorr, the Secretary of the Royal Horticultural Society, 
replied as follows:—Worshipful Sir,—In the name of the Council and 
Fellows of the Royal Horticultural Society, I thank you most sincerely 
for the kind welcome you have given us to-day. You have received 
us, indeed, with such great honour that we cannot suppose that it is 
paid to us as individuals, but only because we represent, as the parent 
Society, all those numerous societies which have sprung up in this 
country, and which give so much delight and satisfaction to all en- 
gaged in gardening. When first the idea of holding country shows: 
was mooted, we feared to make the attempt single-handed, and for the 
last four years we have supposed it unwise to separate ourselves from 
the Royal Agricultural Society; this year, however, we decided to adopt. 
a bolder policy, and determined to do what we could of our own 
strength. Amongst the towns which invited us for this year the town 
of Nottingham stood foremost and I need not say that we did not 
hesitate one moment in accepting the offer Nottingham made to us. 
It is well known to all the world, that whatever Nottingham under- 
takes she carries ont with vigour and determination. Whether it is 
in the manufactures or horticulture it is the same ; and I may, perhaps, 
even venture to say, that in politics you show the same vigour. 
believe that in horticultural matters some of your lambs become seme- 
thing like lions. I haye noticed that among your allotment gardens, 
which are so well managed and make so much noise in the world, the 
chief man is a Knight of St. Ann’s, and the best budder of Roses a 
General Jack. All these symptoms are indications of vigour, which, 
we thought, would lead to success if we came amongst you, and from 
what I haye seen so far, I believe our success will be as great as the 
weather is glorious. I regret that the task of opening the Exhibition 
has not fallen into worthier hands. The Duke of Buccleuch, the 
President of our Society, is unfortunately prevented by military duties 
from being present; the Royal Prince who is connected with the 
Society, had received Her Majesty's commands to attend the State 
ball to-night; and Mr. Wilson Saunders, one of our most honoured 
members, and, as we consider him, the father of horticulture, is kept 
away on account of ill-health. I am quite certain, however, that 
although we haye been disappointed in this respect, you will more 
than make up any deficiencies on our part. From the vigour and 
energy shown by Mr. Lowe in the position he holds as Local Secretary 
—[cheers]—and we are glad to be able to claim him also as one of 


June 29, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


our Council—[hear, hear]—I am sure the Show must prove a success ; 
and, therefore, Mr. Mayor, ladies and gentlemen, I feel great satis- 
faction in the name of His Grace the Duke of Buccleuch, the Presi- 
dent, and in the name of the Royal Horticultural Society, in declaring 
that the Exhibition is now open. 


And now of the Show thus opened under the most favourable 
auspices, and on one of the finest days we have hitherto had 
this cold summer. Itis mainly held, at least the floral portion, 
in one vast tent covering more than half an acre of ground, 
and that ground has been admirably thrown into heights and 
hollows and gentle undulations by Mr. Gibson, of Hyde Park, 
much in the same style as that which he so successfully adopted 
at the International Horticultural Exhibition of 1866, and in 
this instance greatly favoured by the natural unevenness of 
the site. The plants are placed on turf-banks, which are 
vastly superior to the stiff formal stages, hidden in whatever 
manner they may be; and though the turf is not of the greenest, 
that has arisen from the sandy nature of the site and the grass 
being covered with canvas before the late rains. It is impos- 
sible to foresee the weather, but whatever the weather may be, 
of one thing we are satisfied—let it rain all the week as it 
poured yesterday morning, in half an hour after the rain has 
ceased the ground will be fit to walk upon. The fruit, and the 
cut flowers, and table decorations, are in two long tents at the 
higher part of the Park. A few words more before we plunge 
into details—the Nottingham people have made very liberal 
contributions in aid, the railways have been liberal, and we 
thave not a fault to find with the arrangements. Some things 
might have been improved upon, but no one who has not to 
do with such affairs to which people come from north, south, 
east, and west, can have any idea of the difficulty of getting 
people “up to time.’’ Great allowances must be made on 
such occasions, but on this few are required. 


Stove anD GREENHOUSE Pxants are shown in considerable num- 
bers, and, on the whole, are excellent for this period of the season. 
In Class 1, for twenty in 12-inch pots, Mrs. Cole & Sons, Withington, 
send a group, in which are excellent specimens of Aphelexis macran- 
tha purpurea, A. humilis, rosea, Hedaroma Hookeri, Ixora amboynen- 
sis, Dracopbyllum gracile, four Heaths well grown and well bloomed, 
three others not so good, three Azaleas, and a very good specimen of 
Roella ciliata. Messrs. Jackson & Son, Kingston, have an excellent 
Pimelea mirabilis, Erica Massoni major, very good, E. mutabilis in 
fine bloom, but somewhat passed; Erica Cayendishii, good; Aphe- 
Jexis macrantha purpurea, Erica tricolor speciosa and impressa, both 
of which, as well as a very good specimen of Anthurium Scherzeri- 
anum, were passed; Hedaroma Hookeri, Rhynchospermum jasmi- 
aoides, a large Erica Shannoni, and Dipladenia amabilis in good con- 
dition; but the collection is marred by two poor, dingy, white Azaleas, 
and a ragged-looking Ixora crocata. Messrs. Jackson took the first 
prize, Mrs. Cole & Sons the second. 

In the next class Mr. Baines, gardener to H. Micholls, Esq., South- 
gate, has a magnificent group, by far the finest of any exhibited. Not 
@ plant but is in its best ‘‘form,” the whole the perfection of fresh- 
ness and models of culture. They consist of Dracophyllum gracile, 
3} feet in diameter ; Hedaroma tulipiferum, a grand specimen ; Dipla- 
denia amabilis, splendid, and beautifully fresh; a large Cavendish 
Heath; Azalea Ardens, a mass of bloom and in marvellous condition ; 
Phenocoma prolifera Barnesii, an Hrica emula 3 feet in diameter, 
Hxora coccinea, 2 mass of large and splendid heads of flowers; and 
Dipladenia splendens, very delicate in colour, blush tinged with pink 
at the edges, deepening in the throat. Mrs. E. Cole & Sons are second 
with Ixora salicifolia with splendid heads, Allamanda nobilis very 
fine, Dipladenia amabilis, excellent, Allamanda grandiflora, Erica 
Massoni major, E. venosa, Aphelexis macrantha purpurea, and two 
Azaleas. The third prize went to Messrs. Yates, Manchester. 

In Class 3, for six, Mr. J. Bolton, gardener to W. Worswick, Esq., 
Birstall Hall, Leicester, has an excellent Rhynchospermum jasmi- 
moides, Clerodendron fallax, remarkably fine; a good Allamanda 
Hendersoni, and Imantophyllum miniatum. Mr. Stevenson, Lark 
Hill, Timperley, has Ixora coccinea with numerous fine heads of 
‘dowers; Azalea Apollo, excellent; Dipladenia amabilis, very fine; a 
good Anthurium Scherzerianum, and a large Clerodendron Balfourii, 
but scarcely showing any of the crimson corolla, but this will soon be 
very fine. In a collection from Mr. Mitchell, gardener to T. Cross, 
Hsq., Ruddington Hall, Rhynchospermum jasminoides, a standard 
ved Azalea, and Stephanotis floribunda are yery good. The first of the 
Jocal prizes for nine goes to Mr. Stevenson for a group in which 
there is a very fine Dipladenia amabilis, Ixora alba, 34 feet across, 
and about the same in height, a grand mass of white heads of 
flower; Azalea Brilliant, excellent; Aphelexis macrantha purpurea, 
a large and fine specimen; Anthurium Scherzerianum with sixteen 
spathes ; Dipladenia acuminatain fine bloom, and a very good specimen 
of Bougainvillea glabra. The second prize went to Mr. Bolton, gar- 
dener to W. Worswick, Esq., Birstall Hall, for a collection containing 
the finest Clerodendron fallax we have seen for some time, and ex- 
cellent plants of Erythrina crista-galli, Cassia corymbosa, Vinca 


455, 


oculata, Allamanda Schottii, Azalea Coronata, and a splendid plant of 
Lilium lancifolium roseum. 

Single specimens of stove plants in flower, for which prizes are offered 
by G. E. Paget, Esq., Sutton Bonnington, come from Mr. Baines, who 
has a splendid plant of Ixora javanica, quite 4 feet high, and nearly 
3 feet in diameter; from Mr. W. Peachey, gardener to H. E. Hole, 
Esq., Quorndon Lodge, Loughborough, who has Bougainvillea glabra, 
a fine mass of rosy bracts ; from Mr. Stevenson, Lark Hill, Timperley, 
Dipladenia amabilis, with flowers very large and deep-coloured ; from 
Mr. Woodfield, gardener to F. J. S. Foljambe, Esq., Osberton Hall, 
Stephanotis floribunda ; and from Mr. G. Daniells, gardener to A. M. 
Mundy, Esq., Shipley Hall, Derby, a good Clerodendron Balfourii. 
Mr. Baines is first, Mr. Peachey second, Mr. Stevenson third, and Mr. 
Woodfield fourth, and an extra is givento Mr. Daniells. The finest 
single specimen greenhouse plant is Hedaroma tulipiferum, between 
4 and 5 feet in diameter, perfectly trained, and the flowers lovely in 
colour; this comes from Mr. Baines. Mr. Smith, Nottingham, is 
third with a very fine Hydrangea; an Erythrina from Mz. Bolton is 
second. The best specimen of Anthurium Scherzerianum, for which 
special prizes were offered by Charles Paget, Esq., Ruddington Grange, 
is from Mr. Baines, and has twelve magnificent spathes, more coming, 
and is besides infruit. Mr. Williams senta plant with sixteen spathes, 
but of less size, and there is another with no name-card attached, with 
six fine spathes, and two others which would have been better away. 

Frine-FouraGep Pranrs.—Of these there is a very large and also 
very excellent display, in which there are many noble specimens in 
perfect condition. Mr. Baines is first with a splendid Croton pictum, 
Cordyline indivisa, very perfect; Dasylirion acrotrichum, Phonico- 
phorium sechellarum, and Verschaffeltia splendida, both magnificent 
specimens; Alocasia metallica, one of the finest we have seen, and 
two fine Crotons. Mr. Cruickshank, gardener to Lord Belper, King- 
ston Hall, is second for noble plants of Pheenicophorium sechellarum, 
Alocasia gigantea, Croton angustifolium, Chamerops gracilis, a fine 
Alsophila excelsa, Cibotium regale, Alocasia metallica, and Theo- 
phrasta imperialis, all in the most perfect health. The Alocasia is 
one of the best specimens we have seen. Third comes Mr. Woodfield 
with a very fine specimen of Sanchesia nobilis variegata, Sanseviera 
zeylanica, also fine and grand specimens, and an Anthurium regale in 
splendid condition. An extra prize goes to Mr. Thompson, gardener 
to T. Charlesworth, Esq., also to Mr. Bolton. In the nurserymen’s 
class for nine Mr. Williams is first, showing a very fine Theophrasta, 
a grand Cycas revoluta, Dasylirion plumosum, Encephalartos latifrons, 
and a yery fine Pandanus elegantissimus. Mr. E. P. Dixon, Beverley, 
is second with very fine plants of Gleichenia Mendeli, the variegated 
New Zealand Flax, Dasylirion glaucum, Croton angustifolium, Cyathea 
dealbata, and Theophrasta imperialis. Messrs. Bell & Thorpe are 
third with large and excellent plants of Bonapartea filamentosa, 
Musa vittata, Pandanus ornatus, and very good plants of Cordyline 
indivisa, Alocasia metallica, and others. Mr. Stevenson is fourth. 
Mr. Turner, Lenton, also sends a good collection. 

The prize for the best specimen ornamental-foliaged plant went to 
Mr. Baines for a very fine specimen of Sarracenia flava upwards of 
3 feet in diameter, with pitchers between between 2 and 3 feet high. 
The second is taken by Mr. Stevenson with a noble Alocasia. Third, 
is Mr. Woodfield with a large Anthurium magnificum. Fourth, comes 
Mr. Bolton with a Latania borbonica. A remarkably fine plant of 
Cissus discolor from Mr. Daniells received an extra prize. 

Of specimen Crotons the best is Croton angustifolium, 5 feet high 
from the ground. This comes from Mr. Baines, is beautifully fur- 
nished with leaves, and finely coloured. Second comes Mr. Stevenson 
with C. variegatum ; and third, Mr. Bolton with a very good C. an- 
gustifolium. An extra prize was awarded to Mr. Woodfield, gardener 
to F, J. Foljambe, Esq., for a large and very good C. longifolium. 


Caladiums.—The best six come from H. Farmer, Esq., Lenton, and 
are good plants of Belleymei, Bicolor majus, Wightii, Cannaertii, 
Houletii, and Mirabile. The first of the special prizes offered by 
H. Clifton, Esq., goes to Messrs. Bell & Thorpe, of Stratford-on- 
Avon, for plants which though small are beautifully coloured. 

Dracenas.—Myr. Williams is first with a fine plant of Dracena 
lineata, D. umbraculifera, Cordyline indivisa, and Dracena regina. 
Messrs. Bell & Thorpe, Stratford-on-Avon, are second with D. albi- 
cans, excelsa, Veitchii, and Guilfoylei. The third prize went to Mr. 
Lamb, Colston Bassett, for D. ferrea variegata in fine colour, Chel- 
soni and Guilfoylei and albicans, neither so good as those from Messrs. 
Bell & Thorpe. 

Palms.—Of these Mr. Williams has six extremely noble examples, 
comprising Sabal Blackburniana, Phenix sylvestris, Thrinax elegans, 
Latania borbonica, Areca Iutescens, and Chamerops humilis. 
Messrs. Bell & Thorpe are second with very good specimens of Cha- 
mrops excelsa, Thrinax elegans, and Pritchardia Martii. Messrs. 
Yates are third, and Mr. W. E. Dixon fourth. Mr. Linden, of 
Brussels, sends the Palms he exhibited the previous week at Ken- 


sington. 


PircHer-PLants.—The best three Pitcher-plants come from Mr 
Baines, who has Sarracenia flava, variolaris, and a variety of the 
first-named. Mr. Baines also sends a remarkable plant of Sarracenia 
purpurea, forming a mass of pitchers more than 3 feet in diameter. 

MIXED GROUPS ARRANGED FOR EFFECT are not remarkable either 
for the size or beauty of the plants. Messrs. Rollisson, of Tooting, 
have the first prize for a neatly arranged group, in which Isora coc- 


456 


—— 


cinea, Brownea erecta, Pritchardia pacifica, Alocasias, and Adiantum 
farleyense are the most conspicuous. Messrs. Bell & Thorpe are 
second. 


Harpy anp Harr-warpy VARIEGATED AND ORNAMENTAL-FOLIAGED 
Puants.—Mr. Williams, of Holloway, is first with a fine collection, in 
which we noticed Deutzia gracilis variegata, Cupressus Lawsoniana 
pendula alba, Thujopsis dolabrata variegata, a fine plant of Yucca 
quadricolor, Euonymus japonicus aureo-variegatus, one of the best of 
the introductions from Japan ; Euonymus albo-marginatus, another ; 
Yucca aloifolia yariegata, an excellent specimen and singularly clean; 
a fine Dracena australis ; and a handsome Yucca quadricolor, together 
with Euonymus radicans variegata, which is most useful as an edging 
to larger plants. The second prize was awarded to Mr. Dixon, Bever- 
ley, for a collection containing variegated Yuccas, variegated New 
Zeeland Flax, Euonymuses, Aralia Sieboldi, &c. Messrs. Yates are 
third. 

VARIEGATED ALPINE AND HeRpaceous Piants.—Mr. Williams has 
@ first prize for a yery neat collection in which are the pretty and 
useful Polemonium ceruleum yariegatum, Arabis albida aureo-varie- 
gata, Spirma Ulmaria variegata, finely variegated with yellow ; Alyssum 
saxatile variegatum, variegated Thyme, Sedum Sicboldii variegatum, 
and Pulmonaria officinalis maculata, the last handsomely blotched 
with white. 

Orncuips.—Mr. Williams is first fornine, with a group in which there 
are a very fine Cypripedium barbatum superbum; Aérides criapum, 
with two ample branching spikes; Cypripedium caudatum, with a 
dozen of its long-tailed flowers, not so large as we have seen, but very 
good; Vanda tricolor formosa, and other good specimens. Messrs. 
Rollisson are second. In their collection Saccolabium Blumei majus, 
Aérides odoratum, and Aérides Lobbi, are good. 

For six, Mr. Mitchell, gardener to Dr. Ainsworth, Broughton, is first 
with specimens not overlarge; second comes Mr. Stevenson, who has a 
good Dendrobium nobile, but not large-flowered, and two good pans 
of varieties of Cypripedium barbatum. The best nine are from Mr. 
Williams. In this group we noticed Aérides affine superbum very 
fine, with ten racemes, though these are not large; Cypripedinm su- 
perbiens, remarkably fine ; Saccolabium guttatum, good; Lilias, and 
Oncidium incurvum. Messrs. Brooke & Co., Manchester, are second. 
They have in their group a well-flowered specimen of Dendrobium 
Bensonie. Third comes Mr. W. E. Dixon, of Beverley, with an 
excellent pan of Cypripedium barbatum superbum, a good Saccolabium, 
and Aérides Dayanum. 

Heatus.—Of these there is a good though not a large show, and 
many of the plants are not up to the standard of the London exhibi- 
tions. In the class for nine, Messrs. Jackson & Son have large speci- 
mens of Erica tricolor coronata, Vernoni, Paxtoni, tricolor speciosa, 
depressa, tricolor dumosa, Aitonii, Turnbulli, and a nice specimen of 
Candolleana. The plants range from 3 to 4 feet in diameter, with 
two exceptions, and are admirably bloomed. Mrs. E. Cole & Sons 
have very good specimens, but rather rough, the best being ferruginea 
superba, gemmifera elegans, Massoni major, and venosa. Mr. Cooper, 
Rose Hill Nursery, Derby, sends a fine ventricosa grandiflora, and 
good plants of several others. Prizes were offered by C. Seely, Esq., 
M-P., Brookhill Hall, for the best single specimens. The first went 
to Mr. Baines for a plant of obbata fu lly 4 feet across, and fine as it is 
it will be yet finer. The second-prize specimen comes from Messrs. 
Jackson & Son, and is also excellent, the variety being the pink 
retorta major, upwards of 3 feet in diameter. 

Fucusts are but poor. In the amateurs’ class for six the best come 
from Mr. R. C. Beard, Nottingham, Daniel Lambert, 8 feet high, 
is fine; third J. Mapplebeck, Esq. ; fourth Mr. Thompson, gardener to 
T. Charlesworth, Esq. In the nurserymen’s class Mr. Edwards, York, 
25 at w-th good plants, varying from 8 to 6 feet in height, in excellent 

oom. 

Catcrotartas —Special prizes were offered for aix by Sir E. S. 
Walker, the Hon. Arthur Strutt, and the Hon. Mrs. Hudson, but the 
specimens shown are unworthy of notice. The best come from Mr. E. 
Smith, Nottingham. 

AcumreNES.—For these prizes were given by the Local Committee, 
but the specimens were not remarkable. Mr. Bolton is first with freely- 
bloomed plants, but they are small. 

Guoxrnras.—Prizes were offered by Thomas Bayley, Heq., Lenton 
Abbey, and R. Birkin, Esq., Aspley Hall, for erect-flowering Gloxinias, 
and the first was awarded to beautifully-flowered unnamed varieties 
from Mr. Fellows, Beeston Fields, Nottingham. The best six pendant- 
flowering Gloxinas, for which prizes were given by Thomas Cross, Esq., 
Ruddington Hall, and Captain Parry, are exhibited by Mr. Bolton, 
gardener to W. Worswick, Esq., and are beantifully-flowered plants of 
seedling varieties, Bletso, Wilsoni, and Duke of Wellington. 

Luivm avrarum.—Mr. Turner, of Slough, sends beautifully- 
flowered plants, each with at least a dozen large and very fine flowers. 
Messrs. Rollisson, of Tooting, are second with plants which, though 
fine, are inferior in the number and beauty of their blooms to those 
from Mr. Turner. Messrs. Yates are third, and Mr. Edwards, York. 
fourth, with good plants. 

Pyreturums.—But few are shown, the best come from Mr. Wil- 
liams, of Holloway. Imbricatum plenum, Monsieur Barral, and 
Herman Stelzner, rose, and Impératrice Charlotte and Delicatum, 
white, are the best. 

Frrns.—Of Ezotic Ferns, in twelves, Mr. Shuttleworth exhibits 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 29, 1871. 


grand specimens of Cyathea princeps, Cibotium Schiedei, the Bird's” 
nest, Cyathea medullaris, Cibotium regale, Gleichenia dichotoma> 
very fine, and equally so G. speluncm. Mr. Baines is second with a 
fine group, and Mr. Bolton is a good third. Mr. Williams is first for 
nine, with lovely specimens of Gleichenia spelunce, Todea africana, 
Davallia bullata, and among larger plants, Cyathea dealbata and 
princeps. Mr. W. E. Dixon, Beverley, comes third; a fine Dick- 
sonia antarctica, Todea superba, and Adiantum farleyense, being the 
most conspicuous. Messrs. Bell & Thorpe are fourth with a very 
good collection. The second-prize six in the amateurs’ class come 
from Mr. Cooper, Derby, and comprise fine plants of Cibotium baro- 
metz, Alsophila australis, and Dicksonia antarctica. Mr. Stevenson, 
Lark Hill, is first with Gleichenia flabellata, between 5 and 6 feet in 
diameter, Gleichenia semivestita, also large, and in splendid condition, 
a large specimen of the lovely Leptopteris superba, and Acrophorus 
immersus. The second-prize six come from J. E. Mapplebeck, Esq., 
Woodfield, Moseley, Birmingham. Among them are a good Bird’s- 
nest Fern, a fine plant of Nephrodium molle corymbiferiam, and 
Dicksonia squarrosa, with a well-furnished head, or what we will 
term a stem 18 inches high. In Class 81 prizes were offered by 
H. Sherbrooke, Esq., Oxton Hall, for the best specimen Exotic Fern- 
Mr. Baines, with a beautiful Gleichenia rupestris fully 4} feet in 
diameter, is first. The second prize went to Mr. Daniells, gardener 
to A. M. Mundy, Esq., Shipley Hall, Derby, for Gymnogramma calo- 
melanos, nearly 4 feet in diameter, a handsome specimen; the third 
to Mr. Bolton, for a very good Alsophila excelsa; the fourth to 
H. Farmer, Esq., Lenton, for Lomaria gibba. 

Prizes were offered by the Local Committee and the Rey. J. Wolley, 
Beeston, for six hardy exotic Ferns. The first was awarded to Messrs. 
Edwards, Nuthall, for a group in which were fine specimens, pecu- 
liarly beautiful, of Struthiopteris pennsylvanica, S. germanica, and 
Osmunda spectabilis. The second prize was taken by Mr. Shuttle- 
worth, Leyland, near Preston, who had small but well-grown very 
healthy plants of Pteris scaberula and others, with a very good Cyr- 
tomium falcatum. The first of the special prizes offered for three 
Platyceriums is taken by Mr. W. E. Dixon, of Beverley, who has a 
large plant of Platycerium grande and two smaller ones. Second 
comes Mr. Williams with P. alcicorne, and two plants of P. grande. 
Special prizes were offered for twelve Maiden-hair Ferns by Lord 
Belper. The first was taken by Mr. T. Shuttleworth, Golden Hil}, 
with a collection in which are some excellent plants. Messrs. Bell 
and Thorpe sent a very good Adiantum Sancte-Catherinm along with 
others. Sir Henry Bromley, Bart., offered prizes for specimen Maiden- 
hair Ferns. The first prize was awarded to Mr. T. Allsop, gardenor 
to T. B. Reynardson, Esq., Holywell Hall, Stamford, for a large plant 
of farleyense, the second going to Adiantum tenerum, from Mr. 
Cruickshank, gardener to Lord Belper. Mr. Thompson, gardener to 
T. Charlesworth, Esq., Leicester, is third with A. tenerum. Mr. 
Peachey is fourth. Mr. Bolton sends a good plant of A. trapeziforme. 
The special prize offered by H. Cunliffe Shawe, Esq., Warsop Hall, 
for four Todeas or Hymenophyllums, was taken by Mr. Williams, of 
Holloway, with beautiful examples of the lovely Todea superba, Hy- 
menophyllum demissum, very fine; Todea pellucida, and Tricho- 
manes Lerchenaultiana. 

British Ferns.—The best collection of twenty comes from Mr. 
Mapplebeck, whose specimens are very excellent. They are all note- 
worthy, but the most so are Athyrium Filix-femina coronatum, 
Prichardii, frondosum, apuwforme, and polydactylon; Cystopteris 
fragilis sempervirens, extremely beautiful, A. F.-f. densissimum, Os- 
munda regalis cristata, Lastrea Filix-mas grandiceps, Allosorus 
crispus, and Polystichum angulare proliferuam Wollastoni: The best 
twelye come from Mr. Thompson, gardener to T. Charlesworth, Esq- 
The best twelve come from Messrs. Edwards & Son, Northall, and 
among them are neat healthy plants of Athyrium F.-fomina plu- 
mosum maltifidam, Footii, multifidam, and Victoria; Polystichom 
angulare decurrens, multilobum, and cristatum, and Lastrea Filix- 
mas cristata. The second prize went to Messrs. Small & Son, Ilkes- 
ton, who had well-grown plants of Scolopendrium yulgare cristatum, 
Asplenium marinum, and others. For the best ten varieties not yet 
in commerce, Mr. J. E. Mapplebeck is first with Athyrium Filix- 
foemina Gillsoniw farcans, A. F.-f. Jonesii very pretty, A. F’.-f. flabel- 
lifolium, A. F.-f. caput-Meduse with very fine branching heads, A. F.-f. 
caudigerum Stableri, Polystichum angulare acrocladon, and Scolopen- 
drium perafero-cornutum. Mr. Thompson, gardener to T. Charles~ 
worth, Esq., is second with a number of unnamed seedlings. 

Lycopops.—Of these the show is somewhat limited. Mr. Bolton 
gardener to W. Worswick, Esq, is first with finely-grown pans of 
S. cordifolia, Martensii, and cewsia. Second comes Mr. Shuttleworth 
with an excellent pyramid of S. cwsia, and good examples of other 
kinds. Messrs. Bell & Thorpe are third. ; 

SuccuLents.—For these prizes were offered by the Local Committee. 
The best come from Messrs. Veitch, and will be noticed hereafter. 
Messrs. Bell & Thorpe are second with a very nicely-grown collection. 
Mr. Williams, of Holloway, has a collection in which are Semperyivum 
tabuliforme, S. californicum, one of the most useful for edging pur- 
poses, S. Bollii, Echeveria sanguinea equally good, E. secunda glauca 
major, Gasterias, Agave potatorum and Verschaffelti, &c. 

TREES AND SuHRUBS.—Of hardy evergreens the only exhibitors aro 
Messrs. Barron & Son, of Borrowash, whose reputation for such 
subjects renders it unnecessary to say that they took a first place. In 


June 29, 1871. ] 


their best twelve are a very fine Golden Yew 11 feet high, beautifully 
coloured; Retinospora obtusa, fine; R. plumosa aurea, large and 
handsome with fine golden variegation; Arthrotaxus selaginoides, 
A. laxifolia, Cryptomeria elegans, Picea grandis, Araucaria imbricata, 
Retinospora lycopodioides, Juniperus excelsa stricta, forming a very 
handsome pyramid, and Biota elegantissima, a fine golden Arbor- 
Vite. Messrs. Barron also took the Local Committee's prize for the 
best collection. 

New Prayts.—The number of these are but limited, much more 
50 than we expected, and of those that were shown the most are 
British Ferns, of which the name is legion. E. J. Lowe, Esq. has 
beautifully arranged groups, in which the following varieties received 
first-class certificates: Scolopendrium vulgare perfectum, virginale, 
omnilacerum cochleatum, tumulum, innocuum, Davii, kraspedon, 
Fellowsii, thaumaston, kephaloton, Smeei, omnilacerum Lowel, 
keratophoron, dichotomum, and precinctum; Asplenium marinum 
Thompsoniw, admirabile, and capitatum ; Pleopeltis irroides cristata ; 
Lastrea Filix-mas Belperii, depauperata Padleyii variegata; Athy- 
rium, Filix-femina Gulsoniz, Bellairsiz, invincere, trossulam, Lowei, 
triumphale, Alexandr secule, and Lawsonii; Lastrea dilatata calo- 
melanos, L. d. spectabilis ramosa, Polystichum angulare transforme 
and. ariprepes, Adiantum Capillus-Veneris admirabile, daphnites, and 
perfectum, and Hymenophyllum unilaterale Kinahani. J. E. 
Mapplebeck, Esq. had a similar award for Pteris aquilina incurva 
grandiceps, and cristata Gloveri, Lastrea Filix-mas revolvens, Athy- 
rium Filix-femina rectangulare, dilatatum, caudiculatum, cerato- 
phylum, flabellifolium tenue, Gillsonie, Mapplebeckii, Craigii glome- 
ratum, and Blechnum Spicant crispatum. 

G. F. Wilson, Esq., sends several fine Lilies, of which he has a rich 
collection, and is a most successful cultivator. L. californicum, 
L. puberulum, L. pendulifloram very beautiful, and L. canadense 
flavum had first-class: certificates. These flowers set off by the green 
of the Ferns in the niches of the rockwork near the fountain in the 
centre of the tent have an admirable effect, small as they are. Messrs. 
Veitch have first-class certificates for Begonia Chelsoni, Dieffenbachia 
Bauseii with very handsomely-marked foliage, for Dracena Wise- 
mannii, and Dracena amabilis. Mr. B. S. Williams has a certificate 
of the same class for Trichomanes auricularinm, and Messrs. Fisher, 
Holmes, & Co. for the new golden variegated Thyme—to wit, Thymus 
citriodorns aureo-marginatus. Mr. Williams, of Holloway, sends a 
pretty Miltonia called Warscewiczii, the lip beautifully coloured, white 
and purpled crimson, also Pteris serrulata corymbifera handsomely 
crested. Messrs. Veitch are first for the special prize for six new 
plants with Paullinia thalictrifolia, a charming covering for a flat up- 
right trellis; Dracaena amabilis, pretty ; Todea Wilkesiana, very grace- 
ful; Dieffenbachia Bausei, Aralia Veitchii, and Croton Wisemannii. 
Messrs. Rollisson are second with Ixora Colei, Dieffenbachia Bow- 
manni, Davallia clayata, and others; Messrs. Yates third. Mr. Wil- 
liams has Adiantum asarifolium and A. Capillus-Veneris, the latter 
very beautiful, with other good novelties noticed before. Messrs. Bell 
and Thorpe also exhibit Cochliostema Jacobianum, but not in flower, 
and other novelties. 

MisceLLangous.—Foremost in the miscellaneous groups is that 
from Messrs. Veitch, occupying a conspicuous position near the central 
fountain on one side, and extending to the walk round the outside on 
the other. It would fill half a column at least to recite the mere 
names of the plants of which it is composed; it is the most perfect 
group as regards arrangement and as regards rarity and quality we 
have eyer seen. The boxes of succulents are superb; the Semper- 
vivums, as Bollii, arachnoideum, tabuleforme, &c., are admirable ; 
and with these we have Pitcher-plants of various sizes and kinds, and 
one of the North-American Pitcher-plants, Darlingtonia californica, 
which we figure in another page, is in the finest possible condition, 
although it is a difficult plant to grow, but this is thoroughly well 
grown. Odontoglossum Alexandre again is lovely, with six beautiful 
racemes. Maranta tubispatha, Trichopilia crispa, Adiantum concin- 
num latum, a lovely Fern, and many more, might be specially men- 
tioned. This group received, as it well deserved, the first prize in the 
miscellaneous class. ‘The second went to Mr. Williams, who has a 
great variety of Pitcher-plants, both American and Asiatic, Nepenthes 
Rafilesiana, being especially noticeable; Uropedium Lindeni, Aérides 
Larpente and other fine Orchids, including a plant of Saccolabium 
guttatum, with eleven spikes, and many more equally worthy of note. 
Messrs. Lane send some beautiful pyramidal Ivies; Mr. Peachey two 
pots of the Madagascar Lace Plant; Mr. Robson, gardener to Viscount 
Holmesdale, Linton Park, a tine collection of cones of Pinuses, &e. ; 
and Messrs. Veitch a group of succulents like an exquisite piece of 
topiary work. 


Tue show of florists’ flowers is extensive and the quality good, but 
Roses are certainly not up to the mark. The cold weather had had 
probably something to do with this so far as the north is concerned. 
I went over my friend Mr. Hole’s garden the evening before the Show, 
and I do not think that he had a dozen Roses in bloom; and as his 
garden is somewhat sheltered I may suppose that his was a pretty fair 
index of those in the neighbouring counties. But I should have 
thought that the southern growers would have come out more exten- 
sively, for the prizes are certainly liberal enough. I should have ex- 
pected to see a much more vigorous competition for the cup presented 
by Mr. Hole, and for the prize for the premier Rose by Mr. Laxton. 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


457 


In Class 46, for twenty-four Roses, the first was awarded to Mr. 
Laxton, of Stamford, for a stand containing nice blooms of Deyoni- 
ensis, Maréchal Niel, Général Jacqueminot, Pierre Notting, Mdlle. 
Bonnaire, Marguerite de St. Amand, Madame Knorr, L’Enfant Tronve, 
Le Pactole, &c. ; and the second prize to the Rey. E. N. Pochin for a 
box containing some good and some very indifferent blooms, the best 
being Francois Lacharme, Gloire de Dijon, Duke of Wellington, Xavier 
Olibo, Horace Vernet, Senateur Vaisse, and La France. 

In the class for twenty-four cut Roses, three trusses of each, the 
only exhibitors are Messrs. Paul & Son, of Cheshunt, who have fine 
blooms of Marie Baumann, Marquise de Mortemart, Dupuy Jamain, 
Camille Bernardin, Miss Ingram, Duke of Edinburgh, Centifolia rosea, 
Xavier Olibo, Souvenir d’un Ami, Baroness Rothschild, Nardy Fréres, 
Abel Grand, La France, Dr. Andry, Modéle de Perfection, and Ma- 
dame Charles Wood. 

In the class for twelve the first prize was awarded to Mr. Johnson, 
of Pear Hill Rise, Nottingham, for Elie Morel, Madame Charles Wood, 
La France, Charles Lefebvre, Jean Goujon, Maréchal Niel, Horace 
Vernet, Due de Rohan, and Princess Mary of Cambridge. Thesecond 
to the Rey. E. N. Pochin; and the third to Mr. Thomas Green, Par- 
liament Street, Nottingham. 

In the class for six the first prize was awarded to Mr. Timson, Not- 
tingham, for Charles Lefebvre, Mons. Noman, Comtesse de Chabril- 
lant, Lord Macaulay, Duc de Wellington, and John Hopper; the 
second to Mr. Wise, Newcastle Street, Nottingham, for Horace Vernet, 
Dr. Andry, Olivier Delhomme, La France, Marquise de Mortemart, 
and Charles Lefebvre; the third to Mr. Hoe, Corporation Road, 
Nottingham. 

For the cup presented by the Rey. S. Reynolds Hole there were six 
entries. It was awarded to Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, for fine 
blooms of Dr. Andry, Lafontaine, Maurice Bernardin, Centifolia 
rosea, Leopold Hausburg, Duke of Edinburgh, La France, Joseph 
Fiala, Camille Bernardin, Miss Ingram, Marie Baumann, and Nardy 
Fréres. The second prize went to one without a name; and the third 
to Mr. Edwards, of York. 

In the class for forty-eight Roses the first prize was again awarded 
to Messrs. Paul & Son for Black Prince, President Willermoz, Centi- 
folia rosea, Charles Lefebvre, Dr. Andry, Souvenir d'un Ami, Felix 
Genero, Madame Rivers, Marie Rady, La Reine, Mr. George Paul, 
Abel Grand, Souvenir d’un Elise, &c. Mr. Merryweather, of South- 
well, was second, and Mr. Edwards, of York, third. 

In the class of twelve, offered to amateurs, the first prize was 
awarded to Mr. H. Grundy for some nice blooms of Gloire de Sante- 
nay, Francois Lacharme, Camille Bernardin, Marquise de Mortemart, 
La France, &c. This was the best box of twelve in the Show in my 
opinion, and might haye run very closely for the cup. 

In the premier priz2 for a premier Rose the first prize was awarded 
to Messrs. Paul & Son for Duke of Edinburgh, the second to Mr. G. 
Burnham for Marquise de Mortemart, and the third to Mr. J. Brown 
for President (Tea). 

In the class for nine Show Pelargoniums Mr. Edwards, of York, has 
large plants of Charles Turner, Pericles, Lord Clyde, Mary Hoyle, 
Virginie, Clarissa, Beacon, Royal Albert, and Desdemona. Mr. Turner, 
of Slough, has nice plants of Congress, Example, Lady of the Lake, 
Nabob, Emperor, Magnificent, Sunshine, Regent, and Eldorado, and 
comes second. To most people his plants, from their quality of bloom 
and neatness of growth, would have been the most taking. 

In Class 14 there is but one entry of indifferent plants, not sufli- 
ciently bloomed. 

In Class 15, for Fancies, there is only one entry, consisting of 
good plants of Marginata, Matilda, Evening Star, Mr. Page, and 
Mr. Horner. In Fancies for nurserymen Mr. Edwards, of York, 
is again first, his lot consisting of Juliet, Madame J. Dolby, Tor- 
mentor, Brightness, Zoe, and Ann Page. 


In the Zonal Pelargonium class there are some really well: grown 
plants, though some are long and leggy, and some of them have really 
no bloom on them. This especially refers to Class 17, exhibited by 
amateurs, for in Class 18, exhibited by nurserymea, Messrs. Bell and 
Thorpe, of Stratford-on-Avon, have fine plants of John Thorpe, Queen 
of Beauties, Lord Derby, Mrs. Wm. Paul, Indian Yellow, and Fairy 
Princess. The second was awarded to Mr. Edwards, of York, for Mrs. 
Wn. Paul, Shirley Hibbert, Alphonso, Clipper, Enchantress, and Glow. 


In the class for six doubles Messrs. Bell & Thorpe take first for 
nice plants of Marie Lemoine, Wilhelm Pfitzer, Madame Lemoine, 
Victor Lemoine, and Miss Evelyn, rosy pink seedling; second comes 
Mr. Perkins, Leamington, for Marie Lemoine, Wilhelm Pitzer, 
Madame Lemoine, Capitaine 1 Hermitte, Madame Rudolf Abel, and 
Madame Michel Buchner. 

In Variegated Pelargoniums, which are poor, the first prize was 
awarded to Mr. Charles Turner for Mrs. Turner, Impératrice Hugénie, 
Mr. Rutter, Italia Unita, and Mrs. Rousby; the second to Mr. Frisby, 
gardener to H. Chaplin, Esq., Blankmey Hall, Sleaford, for smali plants 
of Magnet, Miss H. Bouvier, Reine des Beautés, Lady Folkestone, 
Hermit, Lizzie Frisby. 

In the class for the best six new Tricolors Mr. Turner was again first 
with Miss Morris, Miss Rutter, Mrs. Rousby, Mr. Rutter, Baroness 
Bardett Coutts, and Mr. Brooke Bridges. 

For the best single Golden Tricolor Mr. Turner was first with 
Baroness Burdett Coutts, and for the best single Silver Tricolor Mr. 
Turner was also first with Mrs. Rousby. 


458 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


{ June 29, 1871. 


For the best six Variegated Mr. J. HE. Mapplebeck was first with 
Oriane, Miss Kingsbury, Flower of Spring, Stella variegata, Silver 
Star, and Queen of Queens; second, Messrs. Bell & Thorpe for 
Flower of Spring, Duke of Edinburgh, Nosegay variegated, Stella 
variegata, and Mrs. C. J. Perry. 

First-class certificates were awarded to Show Pelargoniuams—Pompey, 
a fine dark orange crimson flower; Cmsar, a flower of the same 
colour, but of a deeper shade; Achievement, a rosy lilac flower of 
peculiar shade; Charming, a flower in the way of Mary Hoyle; Tro- 
badour, and Zephyr, a deep-coloured flower with dark spot on the 
lower petals. 

In Table Decorations there are some very nice and some very 
indifferent stands exhibited. I should have just reversed the first 
and second prizes ; for although the first was probably more tastefully 
arranged, yet as it has the effect of hiding the persons at the opposite 
side of the table, it is fatal to its position as first. It is exhibited 
by Mr. W. Cruickshank, gardener to Lord Belper, and consists of 
modifications of the March stand, arranged with fruit in the lower 
basin, and with flowers and foliage in the upper portion. The second 
is to my mind the best, being arranged lightly and elegantly ; one 
stand haying hanging glass baskets, and the other glass cornucopia 
reversed. The flowers consist of Geraniums, Spireas, Roses, Pinks, 
and Fuchsias, and there is but little fruit; the first-prize having a con- 
siderable quantity of gocd well-developed fruit. There is one very 
elaborate plateau, which is evidently overdone. 

In Hand Bonquets there is a very large and good competition, some 
of them being exceedingly pretty; the first prize in Class 129 being 
awarded to Mr. F. Perkins, the second to Mr. House, Peterborough, 
the third to Mr. Wotton, The Hall, Wirksworth, Derby. In Class 130, 
for gentlemen’s bouquets, the first was awarded to Mr. House for a 
bouquet, containing a piece of Heath, Bouvardia, and Maiden-hair 
Fern; the second to Mr. Farmer, Flora Cottage, Lenton, for one 
sonfeining ten Fuchsia blooms, a piece of Heath, and frond of Maiden- 

air. 

In Pinks there are nine stands of nice clear flowers. The first 
prize was awarded to Mr. Turner for the Rey. G. Jeans, Marion, 
Christabel, seedling, President, Dr. Maclean, Prince Frederick Wil- 
liam, Eustace, Delicata, Attraction, Bertram, and Lord Kirkcaldy; 
the second prize being taken by Mr. Pizzey, gardener to Sir E. Perry, 
with Bertram, Attraction, Diadem, Rey. G. Jeans, Marion, Lord 
Herbert, Victory, President, Governor, Prince Frederick William, 
Delicata, and Cristabel ; the third is Mr. Taylor, of Sneinton, and the 
fourth to Mr. Gibson, of Framcote. 

Messrs. Downie, Laird, & Laing exhibit two stands of beautiful 
Pansies, one of Show and one of Fancy Pansies, the former consist- 
ing of J. B. Downie, Imperial Prince, Defoe, Jessie Laird, Prince of 
Prussia, J. C. Chapman, Chancellor, G. Keith, Adonis, Eclat, J. H. 
Douglas, Lavinia, Locomotive, Cherub, Mary Lamb, Robert Burns, 
Village Maid, Yellow Queen, Lima, George Muirhead, Snowdrop, 
Dora, Princess of Wales, J. White, Miss Williamson, Allan Ramsay, 
Lady L. Dundas, A. H. Mearns, Alice Downie, Raine Pladda, and 
some seedlings. Of Fancies they have Daisy, Mr. Baird, James Alex- 
ander, Miss Bonomy, Mrs. McLauchlin, Princess of Wales, Miss 
Melville, Dr. Mitchell, Dr. Syme, Mr. Lightbody, Agnes Laing, 
Magnificent, Mr. Hay, and some seedlings.—D., Deal. 


FRUIT. 

There is a fair display of fruit, though the quantity is not large, 
nor the quality on the whole very excellent. To this generalisation 
there are, however, exceptions. 

A collection of twelve dishes comes from Mr. Miles, gardener to 
Lord Carrington, and consists of fine bunches of Black Hamburgh 
Grapes, but not well coloured; excellent bunches of Foster’s White 
Seedling, very fine; Violette Hative Peaches, Murray Nectarine, 
Bigarreau Napoleon, and Black Tartarian Cherries, and Sir Charles 
Napier and Mr. Radclyffe Strawberries, the latter very fine. The prizes 
offered by Col. Wright and C. Wilde, Esq., are taken, the first by 
Mr. Mitchell with Muscat Grapes, good Peaches, Nectarines, a Melon, 
British Queen and Lord Burghley Apple in such perfect preservation 
that it looks as if it had just been gathered, though, of course, last 
year’s fruit. The second prize goes to Mr. Holah for fine bunches of 
Canon Hall Museat, but not ripe; Golden Hamburgh, a Melon, small 
Cherries, Nectarines, and Figs. 

Pint Appies.—These are but sparingly shown, but they are of great 
merit. Myr. Miles, gardener to Lord Carrington, Wycombe Abbey, 
is first for three, with two splendid Queens weighing respectively 
5 Ibs. 5 ozs., and 5 lbs. 13 ozs., and a noble Providence of 11 lbs. 5 ozs. 
Mr. Simpson, gardener to Lord Wharncliffe, Wortley Hall, is second 
with three Queens of 4 lbs. 8 ozs., 5 lbs. 2 ozs., and 4 lbs. 12 ozs., 
perfectly ripened. For a single fruit, Mr. Simpson is first with one 
of 4 lbs. 6 ozs. ; and Mr. Miles second with one weighing 5 lbs. 14 ozs., 
but not yet perfectly ripe. 

GRraPeEs are less numerously shown than one would haye supposed. 
In single dishes of Black Grapes Mr. Ianson, gardener to T. Statter, 
Esq., Stand Hall, Manchester, is first with fine bunches of Black 
Hambnurghs, even in berry and perfect in colour and bloom. These, 
it is stated, were grown on single rods. Mr. M. Henderson, gardener 
to Sir G. H. Beaumont, Bart., Cole Orton Hall, is second with fine 
bunches of the same, very large in berry. Mr. Sage, gardener to Earl 
Brownlow, Ashridge, is third with large bunches somewhat loose and 


rubbed in the carriage. Mr. Daniells, gardener to A. M. Mundy, Esq. 
Shipley Hall, also sends good-sized bunches. For White Grapes Mr, 
Holah, gardener to H. Saville, Esq., Rufford Abbey, is first with large 
bunches of Muscat of Alexandria, but not ripe. Mr. Peachey is 
second with Golden Champion with very large bunches and immense 
berries. Mr. M. Henderson is third with Buckland Sweetwater. The 
best 12-lb. basket comes from Mr. J. Smith, gardener to the Earl of 
Gainshorough, and consists of large bunches of Black Hamburgh. 
The same kind from Mr. M. Henderson is second; and Black Ham- 
burgh not perfectly coloured from Mr. Broadbridge, gardener to Sir 
C. Mordaunt, Bart., Walton Hall, is third. Prizes were offered by 
Mr. T. Forman for six bunches from Vines more than twenty-five 
years old. The first prize was awarded to Mr. Ianson for large splen- 
didly ripened bunches of Black Hamburgh ent from Vines upwards o 
twenty-seven years old, the largest bunch being from a rod of last 
year’s growth. Mr. M. Henderson, Cole Orton, is second with good 
bunches of Black Hamburgh, very even in size of bunch and berry, 
and very finely coloured. The Vines are stated to be thirty-nine years 
old, and grown on the extension system. Mr. Lynn, gardener to Lord 
Boston, is third with very large and excellent bunches of Black Prince, 
Buckland Sweetwater, very fine, and General de la Marmora. Mr. 
Simpson, Wortley, sends excellent bunches of Black Hamburgh, large 
in berry and most of them well coloured, from Vines fifty years old, 
restricted to one rafter and pruned to the best bud. Mr. Craddock, 
gardener to Lord Willoughby de Broke, Compton Verney, exhibits in 
this class large bunches of Muscat of Alexandria, but unripe. The 
first of the local prizes for two bunches of four varieties is taken by 
Mr. Broadbridge with Black Hamburgh, Canon Hall Muscat, Buck- 
land Sweetwater, and Golden Champion, all of which are fine, and 
the bunches of Golden Champion are very large. Mr. Cruickshank, 
Derby, is second with Frankenthal, Muscat of Alexandria, small but 
finely ripened, Black Hamburgh, and White Frontignan. 

Preacues and NrctTarrnes are few, but very fine. The best of the 
former come from Mr. Jack, gardener to the Duke of Cleveland, 
Battle Abbey, the kind being Bellegarde very large, and beautiful in 
colour. Mr. Sage is second also with very large and finely-ripened 
fruit; and Mr. Lamb, Colston Bassett, is third with Galande. Mr. 
Lynn, gardener to Lord Boston, Hedsor, sends excellent fruit of Royal 
George, and Mr. Miles, Violette Hative. In Nectarines, Mr. Hope, 
gardener to T. C. Clarke, Esq., Vinery House, Allerton, is first with 
large fruit of Elruge. Violette Hative, very highly coloured, from Mr. 
Lynn is second ; and thesame kind from Mr. Brown, gardener to Earl 
Howe, Gopsal, is third. Pitmaston Orange comes from Mr. Jackson, 
Fiscall Hall, Stafford. Mr. Miles sends good fruit of Violette Hative. 
The local prizes for four Peaches and Nectarines go to Mr. Jackson, 
Fiscall Hall, Stafford, for very fine fruit of Grosse Mignonne and 
Newington Peaches, and of Pitmaston Orange and Elruge Nectarines. 
The second was awarded to Mr. Miller. 

Fics only number half a dozen dishes. Brown Turkey from Mr. 
Brown, Gopsall, is first, and the same kind from Mr. Sage and Mr. 
Miller, Worksop, is second and third. 

Currrizs.—Only eight dishes are shown. The first prize goes to 
Mr. Miller for very fine Black Tartarian, Mr. Miles is second with 
Bigarreau Napoleon; and Mr. Garland, gardener to Sir T. D. Ack- 
land, Bart., Killerton, is third with Elton. 

STRAWBERRIES.—There is only one collection of six dishes, and 
that is shown by Mr. Miles; it consists of good fruit of Black Prince, 
Mr. Radclyffe, Sir Charles Napier, Alice Maude, Léon de St. Lannier, 
and Sir Joseph Paxton. In single dishes Mr. Staples, gardener to 
Capt. Pochin, Braunstone Hall, Leicester, is first with a fine dish of 
Sir Joseph Paxton; Mr. Miles is second; and Mr. Mitchell, gardener 
to T. Cross, Esq., Ruddington Hall, third. 

Metons.—In the green-fleshed class Mr. Lamb, Colston Bassett, is 
first with Colston Bassett Seedling; Mr. Mitchell second with another 
seedling; and Mr. Shuttleworth third with Gilbert’s Improved Victory 
of Bath. For scarlet-fleshed, Mr. Gilbert, gardener to the Marquis of 
Exeter, Burghley, is first with a good-sized fruit of Gem; Mr. Meikle, 
gardener to S. Howard, Esq., Read Hall, Whalley, is second with 
Gem; and Mr. Mitchell third with the same kind. The first prize 
for two Melons was awarded to Mr. Mitchell for Gem and Golden 
Perfection ; the second to Mr. Holah for two scarlet-fleshed seedlings. 


Fruir Trees 1x Pors.—With the exception of Vines, these are 
furnished by Mr. Pearson, of Chilwell, and by him only. No better 
exponent by precept and example could be found; and though he took 
first prizes both for six Peaches and Nectarines, and for six orchard- 
house trees, excluding these and Grapes, the honour was no more 
than deserved. He has admirable standards of Royal George and Early 
Silver Peaches, Pitmaston Pine Apple, and Victoria Nectarines, loaded 
with fruit and in superb health; whilst among orchard-honse trees 
his Figs, Pears, and Plums are admirable. Messrs. Lane & Son are 
the only exhibitors of Vines in pots, and haye Foster's White Seedling 
admirably fruited, Madresfield Court also very good, and Black 
Hamburgh. 

- MisceLLannous.—Mr. Frisby, gardener to H. Chaplin, Esq., 
Bloxholm Hall, has a first prize for three dishes of Apples in very 
good preservation, the varieties being Court-Pendu-Plat, Easter 
Pippin, and Sturmer Pippin. Mr. Garland, gardener to Sir T. D. 
Ackland, Killerton, has Red and Black Currants, and Raspberries; 
and Mr. Tillery, Welbeck, sends, not for competition, Strawberries, 
Cherries, and Lady Downes’ Grapes of 1870 preserved in bottles, 


June 29, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


and though shrivelled, still good. Mr. Miles, gardener to Lord 
Carrington, has an Enville Pine of 8} lbs. and a large-crowned 
Providence of 10 1bs. Neither of these is fully ripe, still they are 
noble fruit. 

Pods of Vanilla planifolia, the Vanilla of commerce, come from Mr. 
Woodfield, gardener to F. S. Foljambe, Esq., Osberton, whence these 
haye been several times exhibited by Mr. Woodfield’s predecessor, 
Mr. Bennett. 

Vegetables and the garden structures we must leave till next week 
The former are, for the most part, excellent. 


ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY’S MEETING. 


Tuer June meeting was held at Burlington House under the presi- 
dency of J. W. Dunning, Esq., M.A., F.L.S., Vice-President, and 
formerly Secretary of the Society, in the absence of the President. A 
communication was read from the Rey. Leonard Jenyns with reference 
to the reported showers of insects or other small animals at and in the 
vicinity of Bath, of which strange accounts had recently appeared in 
the local journals, and respecting which, at the previous meeting of 
the Society, it had been suggested that they might probably prove to 
be the Entomostracous crustacean, Branchipusstagnalis. Mr. Jenyns 
having carefully examined some of these animals, found, however, 
that they were infusorial, probably Vibrio undula of Muller, many of 
them being congregated into spherical masses, enveloped in a gelatinous 
substance. They fell during a severe storm of rain, having probably 
been taken up into the rain cloud by a whirlwind. 

At the May meeting of the Society a curious specimen of the com- 
mon Brimstone Butterfly was exhibited, which had been captured, with 
large irregular patches of brilliant red upon the wings, and which it 
was suggested had been produced by the insect having come into con- 
tact with some chemical liquid, which had produced the discoloration. 
At the June meeting Mr. Butler gave an account of some experiments 
which had been made by himself and Mr. Meldola, with the view of 
ascertaining the action of dyes on insects. Many species had been 
subjected to aniline dyes, and all kinds of colours produced. Mr. 
Butler also found that when Butterflies were immersed in a solution 
of soda, for the purpose of cansing the dyes to be taken more readily, 
the colouring matter of the scales was completely discharged and 
collected at the bottom of the solution. Mr. Bicknell, acting upon a 
suggestion made at the May meeting, had also subjected the common 
Brimstone Butterfly to the action of cyanide of potassium, and the 
yellow colour of the insect’s wings was changed to orange red. 

Mr. Boyd exhibited a specimen of the yellow moth, Rumia crategata, 
one wing of which was turned brown at the apical portion, having 
been captured in that condition. 


THE CRYSTAL PALACE ROSE SHOW. 


Tuts was held on Midsummer-day, and though the sun shone forth 


rather brightly about noon, the rest of the day was as cold as one of | 


the early days of March, for the north-east wind, of which we have 
had so much this year, and now want so little, had again set in; but 
the dull, ungenial weather did not deter a large concourse of visitors 
from flocking to the Palace, and when the barriers were removed that 
kept them back while the judging was going on, the pent-up multitude 
were soon four-deep round the tables. The backwardness of the 
season, and the heavy storms of rain and hail, no doubt prevented 
many exhibitors from entering the lists, and the Show, consequently, 
was not so large as it usually is; and for the same reasons also the 
Roses generally were neither so large, nor so bright in colour, nor so 
perfect in form as they usually are at this Show. In many instances 
the storms had done their work on the largest and best blooms, and 
younger ones, not then expanded, had to take their places. In spite, 
however, of all drawbacks, Messrs. Paul & Son and Mr. Keynes, of 
Salisbury, among nurserymen, exhibited excellent trusses, but by far 
the finest_shown were from the Rey. R. N. G. Baker, of Heavitree, 
Deyon, who made a clean sweep of the first prizes in all the amateurs’ 
classes in which he could exhibit, and that in competition with such 
well-known exhibitors as Mr. Ingle and Mr. Chard. 

In Class 1, seventy-two single trusses, Messrs. Paul & Son, of 
Cheshunt, were first with excellent examples of La France, Anna 
Alexieff, Duke of Edinburgh, Exposition de Brie, a little weather- 
beaten, as the same variety nearly everywhere was, Alba rosea, Devo- 
niensis, Xavier Olibo, Mr. Gladstone (new), Paul Verdier, Abel Grand, 
Dupuy-Jamin, Centifolia rosea, Général Jacqueminot, Madame Cle- 
mence Joigneaux, Leopold Hausburg, Madame Victor Verdier, Marie 
Baumann, Triomphe de Caen, John Hopper, Marguerite de St. Amand, 
Elie Morel, and Rubens. Next came Mr. Keynes with La France, 
Elie Morel, Prince Camille de Rohan, Exposition de Brie, Comtesse 
@ Oxford or Countess of Oxford (often written Comtesse of Oxford !), 
Victor Verdier, Abel Grand, Marguerite de St. Amand, Alfred Colomb, 
Gloire de Vitry, Ville de Lyon, La Motte Sanguine, bright carmine ; 
Marquise de Castellane, bright rose, fine; Maréchal Niel, Senateur 
Vaisse, and Dupuy-Jamin. The third prize went to Mr. Mitchell, 
Piltdown, who, in addition to several of the varieties already named, 
had fine trusses of Baronne Haussman, Louis Van Houtte, Joséphine 
Malton, Ferdinand de Lesseps, and Gloire de Ducher. The fourth 
prize was awarded to Messrs. Francis & Co., Hertford. 


Class 2, forty-eight triples, is always very effective from the masses 
of colour which are presented, and it was so in this instance. Here 
Mr. Keynes took the place of honour, having among others fine 
trusses of Marechal Niel, Alfred Colomb, Marquise de Castellane, La 
France, Marquise de Mortemart, Louise Peyronny, John Hopper, 
Ferdinand de Lesseps, Marie Baumann, Devoniensis, Madame Fillion, 
Edouard Morren, Elie Morel, Triomphe de Rennes, and La Motte 
Sanguine. Messrs. Paul & Son came second with Général Jacque- 
minot, Maurice Bernardin, Mdlle. Thérése Levet, Charles Rouillard, 
Lafontaine, Mr. Gladstone, Centifolia rosea, Camille Bernardin, and 
good examples of others. The third prize went to Mr. Turner, of 
Slongh, who had Lord Napier, new, and very fine in colour, being a 
brilliant carmine; Miss Ingram, Miss Poole, also new ; Monsieur Wool- 
field, Céline Forestier, and Baronne de Rothschild. Mr. Mitchell was 
fourth. 

For twenty-four triples Mr. Keynes was again first, the most note~ 
worthy being Marguerite de St. Amand, Abel Grand, Charles Wood,. 
John Hopper, Marquise de Castellane, La France, and Madame: 
Willermoz. Messrs. Paul & Son were second, and Mr. Turner third. 
For twenty-four singles Mr. Walker, Thame ; Mr. Cooling, Bath ; and 
Mr. Knight, Hailsham, were prizetakers in the ordernamed. Messrs. 
Lane, of St. Mary’s Cray; Coppin, of Shirley; Lowe, of Uxbridge ; 
Woollett, Uxbridge; and Parker, Rugby, also exhibited. 

In the amateurs’ classes, as already remarked were to be found the 
finest Roses in the Show, although several well-known names did not 
appear in the list of exhibitors, and the nurserymen will have to tako 
care of their laurels—not their evergreens—or they will be left behind 
in the race. For forty-eight trusses the first prize was most deservedly 
awarded to the Rev. R. N. G. Baker, of Heavitree, for examples, large 
in size and splendid in colour, of Madame Victor Verdier, Madame 
Charles Wood, Charles Lefebvre, Duke of Edinburgh, La France, 
Maurice Bernardin, Sénateur Vaisse, Mdlle. Marie Rady, Felix Genero, 
Duchesse de Caylus, Exposition de Brie, Antoine Ducher, Centifolia 
rosea, Louis Van Houtte, Alfred Colomb, Anna de Diesbach, and a 
magnificent Baronne de Rothschild. Mr. Ingle, gardener to Mrs. 
Round, Colchester, was second with a fine stand, in which Cloth of 
Gold, Maréchal Niel, Glcire de Dijon, Rubens, Jules Margottin, and 
Berthe Baron were particularly good; and Mr. Chard, Clarendon: 
Park, Salisbury, was third ; the Rev. G. Arkwright, Pencombe Rectory, 
Bromyard, being fourth; Safrano in his stand was very fine. In his 
stund-of thirty-six, the Rev. R. N. G. Baker had fine trusses of Pitord, 
Louise Peyronny, John Hopper, Duc de Wellington, and of several of 
the kinds shown in his forty-eight. Mr. Chard was second, Mr.: 
Excell, gardener to J. Hollingworth, Esq., Maidstone, third, and Mr. 
J. Davis fourth. In his first-prize twenty-four, the Rev. Mr. Baker 
had the best Felix Genero in the Show, and splendid examples of 
Prince Camille de Rohan, Duke of Edinburgh, La France, Marie 
Baumann, Maurice Bernardin, John Hopper, Victor Verdier, Dr. 
Andry, and Baronne de Rothschild. Second came Mr. T. Graveley, 
Cowfold, Sussex, with a stand in which were Paul Delameilleray, 
Victor Verdier, and others. Of new Roses of 1868, Duke of Edin- 
burgh, very splendid in colour, was shown both by Mr. Turner and 
Messrs. Paul & Son, fully justifying the high expectations formed of 
it on its first coming out. Mr. Keynes had Marquise de Castellane, 
also of a very fine colour; and Messrs. Paul & Son Marquise de Mor- 
temart. The best stand of twenty-four Roses of 1868 and 1869 came 
from Messrs. Paul & Son, and the best in it were Duke of Edinburgh, 
Robert Marnock, a maroon seedling from it, which promises to be an 
acquisition, though more of the Madame Moreau character than we 
like ; Mr. Gladstone, Nardy Fréres, Dapuy-Jamin, Catherine Mer- 
met, Belle Lyonnaise, and Comtesse d’Oxford. Mr. Keynes came in 
second ; his best were Ferdinand de Lessep3, Dupuy-Jamin, Madame 
Liabaud, white with a pink-tinged centre ; Marquise de Castellane, 
Madame Jacquier, a Felix-Genero-like flower, and Adrien de Monte- 
bello, rose with a brighter centre. The third prize went to Mr. J. 
Durbin. Mr. Keynes was first for the best twelve blooms of any 
variety with La France, very large and fine; Messrs. Paul & Son 
being second with Centifolia rosea; and Mr. Bridge, Stisted, Brain- 
tree, third. 

In the first collection of Yellow Roses, Mr. Keynes’s magnificent 
examples of Maréchal Niel were first; Messrs. Paul & Son were 
second ; and Mr. H. May, third. Céline Forestier and Triomphe de 
Rennes were well represented in several stands. 


In vases or epergnes of Roses for dinner-table decoration, Miss 
Bayspoole, of Morden, was awarded the first prize for a stand in 
which the trumpet-shaped flower-holder at top was filled with Roses 
interspersed with Grasses, cornucopia-like branches similarly filled, 
with at the base of the stem a circular mirror surrounded with a broad 
edging of Ferns, Roses, and Begonia leaves. The last-named are 
objectionable as they soon wilt, and the Grasses were somewhat too 
freely introduced; Miss Hassard, Upper Norwood, was second ; and 
Mr. Stoddart third, with a March stand with Lonicera aureo-reticu- 
lat. twining-up the stand. Mrs. Dombrain was fourth with a very 
neatly-filled glass basket; and an extra prize was given to an ela- 
berately got-up stand with a flat looking-glass base, bordered with 
Roses, Ferns and Grasses. 

Hanging-baskets, vases, and Fern-cases furnished with plants, came 
from Messrs. Carter & Co., and from Messrs. Dick Radclyffe & Co., 
who took prizes for each. Messrs. Carter & Co. also sent a fine pair 
of Dichorisandra mosaica, exhibited at Kensington on the previous 


460 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ June 29, 1871. 


Wednesday, double-flowered and Tricolor Pelargoniums. Messrs. The Metropolitan Floral Society offered prizes for Pinks and Ranun- 
Downie, Laird, & Laing sent a mixed group of fine-foliaged plants, | culuses, Mr. Turner, Mr. Hooper, Wideombe Hill, Bath, and Mr. 
many fine Phloxes, &c.; Messrs. Paul & Son, Roses in pots; Mr. | Pizzey, gardener to Sir E. Fulmer, Slough, were the prizetakers for 
Turner, Show Pelargoniums, Pinks, and Verbenas; Messrs. Burley | twenty-four Pinks, while for twenty-four and twelve Ranunculuses the 
and Martin several good Scarlet Pelargoniums. Mr. Turner and the | Rev. H. H. Dombrain was first, Mr. Hooper being second for the 
Rey. G. Arkwright sent collections of cut blooms of Roses. former, and Mr. O. Evans, Marston, Oxon, for the latter. 


DARLINGTONIA CALIFORNICA. 


= Suicut confusion has been caused by De Candolle applying the | naira also pointing downwards; remains of insects are some- 
name of Darlingtonia to some members of the Acacias, which he | times found at the bottom. Dr. Dorrey writes ‘The orifice of 


separated from them 
and formed a new 
genus. This has 
been abolished, and 
the species so sepa- 
rated added to Des- 
manthus. How- 
ever, it was re- 
solved that Dr. Dar-. 
lington, an Ameri- 
can botanist, should 
not be robbed of the 
honour due to him, 
so Darlingtonia has 
now been bestowed 
on a new genus of 
the natural order 
Sarraceniacese, or 
Pitcher Plants. 
Only one species is 
known at present, 
and popularly 
known as the Cali- 
fornian Side-saddle 
or Pitcher Plant. 
It bas been thus 
described by Mr. 
Black. It is “a pe- 
rennial herb grow- 
ing in marshy 
places. Its leaves 
all rise from the 
root, the adult ones 
‘being from 8 inches 
te a foot or more in 
length; the stalk 
or pitcher tubular, 
gradually tapering 
‘downwards and sin- 
gularly twisted on 
the axis about half 
a turn, marked with 
strong veins and 
‘slender veinlets, and 
the summit vaulted 
and formed into a 
sac about the size of 
a hen’s egg, on the 
under side of which 
is an oval orifice 
about half an inch 
in diameter opening 
into the cavity of 
‘the pitcher ; the up- 
‘per part of this tube 
‘is of a dull orange 
‘colour. The blade, 
‘which is borne on 
tthe end of the stalk 
or pitcher, is nar- 
rowed at the base 
and deeply divided 
into two spreading 
nearly lance-shaped 
lobes, which are 
curved downwards, 
and also often back- 


Darlingtonia californica. 


the pitcher being 
placed directly un- 
derthe vaulted sum- 
mit, cannot receive 
either rain-water or 
dew, and yet Mr. 
Brackenridge thirks 
he found some of 
the leaves contain- 
ing water; still I 
cannot think the 
water was secreted 
by the hairs in the 
tube.’ The flowers 
are single and ned- 
ding at the apex 
of a smooth stalk, 
which is furnished 
with straw-coloured 
scales, and varies 
from 2 to 4 feet in 
length. When fully 
expanded the flower 
is about 2 inches 
in diameter; the 
calyx consists of 
five straw-coloured 
acute sepals; the 
petals, of a like 
number, and pale 
purple in colour, are 
narrowed and con- 
cave at the apex and 
broad below ; the 
twelve to fifteen 
stamens are nearly 
hidden by the pro- 
jecting summit of 
the ovary, which is 
top-shaped, slightly 
five-angled, and 
crowned by a short 
style with a five- 
lobed stigma. The 
fruit is a five-celled 
capsule about an 
inch in length, with 
numerous seeds. 
The forked blade of 
the leaf and the 
form of the stigma 
distinguish the 
genus from Sarra- 
cenia, which has an 
umbrella-shaped 
stigma.” 

Mr. Robinson ob- 
served on this plant 
at the Linnean So- 
ciety, that it grows 
on the Sierra Ne- 
vada, at an altitude 
of 5000 feet above 
the sea, in small 
sloping bogs along 
with Sphagnum and 
other true  bog- 


wards, resembling the lop-ears of some varicties of rabbit. The | plants. At a distance the pitchers have the appearance of 
pitcher inside the hood is furnished with short conical hairs which Jargonelle Pears, holding their larger ends uppermost, at a 
point downwards, and towards the base there are long slender | distance of from 10 inches to 24 inches aboye the ground. 


i 


June 29, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


461 


This resulted from the pitchers being quite turned over at the | earwigs, and other vermin, which are sure to congregate 
top so as to form a full rounded dome, and the uppermost half} amongst the shreds and at the back of the shoots, and which, 


of the pitcher being of a decided ripe pear-yellow. ‘They are 
all twisted spirally, especially in their upper portion. 
pitcher had at the bottom a layer of from 2 to 5 inches of 
the remains of insects closely packed into it; from those of 
minute beetles to large feathery moths. What it is that attracts 
the insects is by no means clear. Pass a sharp knife through a 
lot of brown pitchers withering round an old plant, and the 
stumps resemble a number of tubes, densely packed with the 
remains of insects. Within the pitcher the surface is smooth 
for a little way down; then isolated hairs appear; and soon the 
chamber becomes densely lined with needle-like hairs, all point- 
ing down, so decidedly indeed, that they almost lie against the 
surface from which they spring. These hairs are very slender, 
tvansparent, and about a quarter of an inch long, but have a 
needle-like rigidity, and are perfectly colourless. The poor 
flies, (one is shown entering the sac in our drawing) moths, 
ladybirds, &c., seem to travel down these conveniently arranged 
stubbles, but none seem to turn back. ‘The pitcher, which 
may be a couple of inches wider at the top, narrows very gradu- 
ally, and at its base is about a line in diameter. Here, and 
for some little distance above this point, the vegetable needles, 
of course, all converge, and the unhappy fly goes on till he finds 
his head against the thick firm bottom of the cell, and his rear 
against myriads of bayonets; and here he dies. Very small 
creatures fill up the narrow base, and above them larger ones 
densely pack themselves to death in the hope of fighting their 
way out. When held with the top upwards, sometimes a 
reddish juice with an exceedingly offensive odour drops from 
them.—(Treasury of Botany—Nature ) 


WORK FOR THE WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Let there be no delay in planting out a good breadth of 
White and Purple Cape Broccoli, also Cauliflowers and Grange’s 
Harly White Broccoli; the latter, if true, is invaluable late in 
autumn. ‘Trench up ground and fill it with similar vegetables 
as the early erops go off; not one vacant spot or corner should 
now be left uncropped. Break down the leaves over the heads 
ef the most forward Cauliflowers, and keep up @ good supply of 
stimulants. See that Cucumbers and Vegetable Marrows do 
not want for liquid manure and water; peg down the bines as 
they advance, and attend to stopping. A full sowing of Endive 
may be made for the main crop, and if any were sown in May 
the plants had better be thinned, and the thinnings replanted. 
We do not recommend early sowing, because Lettuces are 
much superior for any purpose for which Endive can ke re- 
quired at this season, and therefore it is advisable never to sow 
until all danger of its running to seed is over.. The Small 
Green Carled is the hardiest for winter use, but for the autumn 
crop the Large Green Curled is a splendid Endive, planted in 
very rich soil at 2 feet apart. This sort will not bear severe 
frost, nor does it keep in store so well as the Small Green 
Curled, and therefore for all late purposes the latter should 
enly be sown. The large Batavian Endive is also a useful 
variety where Chicory is in request for salads. Thin and 
earth-up and stop advancing crops of Dwarf Kidney Beans, 
and sow the latest successional crop. Take the first oppor- 
tunity, a8 soon as the Herbs of various kinds are sufficiently 
advanced, to cut a portion for drying; the best time is as soon 
as the blossoms are expanded, because they then contain most 
cf the aromatic principle. We need not add that they must 
be perfectly dry, and dried quickly in the shade. Tie up 
Lettuces for blanching, and make successional sowings, and of 
Radishes, and other salads. Keep up the sowings of Spinach. 
Make the last sowing of Scarlet Runners, and give those ad- 
vancing a little assistance in training upthe stakes. Persevere 
in hoeing and forking up the surface of the soil in every 
department; it is the groundwork of success. 


FRUIT GARDEN. 

The season lately having been what is called a growing one, 
increased diligence must be used in keeping all young wood 
properly nailed to the walls to guard against the effects of 
high winds. Gooseberries and Currants trained against north 
walls should have the leaders nailed in, and all the side shoots 
spurred down to within a few joints of the base. Peaches, 
Nectarines, and, indeed, wall trees in general, will be occasion- 
ally benefited by strong syringings, whether infested with 
aphides or not, because, independent of washing all filth, which 
of itself is a good thing, it disturbs and routs out woodlice, 


if left undisturbed, will tell a tale by-and-by. Let the Straw- 


Each | berries be well gathered as they become ripe, for if left on they 


retard the swelling and ripening of those remaining. Con- 
tinue the thinning of Grapes, and keep the growth judiciously 
stopped. 

FLOWER GARDEN. 

The weather has cf late been most unfavourable, but the 
rain has fallen so copiously as to put a stop, for some time at 
least, to the laborious operation of watering. Plants in masses 
that have been pegged down are growing rapidly, and the Ver- 
benas are throwing out strong healthy roots from the stem, 
thus showing the advantage of pegging down. Depend upon 
it, the closer we can get all plants in masses to the surface of 
the ground, the more certain shall we be of success, for from 
their proximity to the soil a more robust and rapid growth is 
secured. Advantage should be taken of showery weather to fill 
up all vacancies in beds or borders, also to plant out German 
Asters, Ten-week Stocks, Marigolds, and other annuals, to 
fill up all the empty spaces in the flower borders. Attend to 
rolling and mowing the lawn, weeding, sweeping and rolling 
walks, and to hoeing, raking, and stirring the surface of the 
ground. Continue to peg down all plants that require it. 
Support and regulate the shoots of climbers. Stake and tie 
up all tall-growing plants. Prick-out biennials into nursery 
beds. Destroy earwigs and all kinds of destructive insects. 
Strive to keep up as complete an appearance of high keeping 
as tbe number of your hands and other means will permit. 
Reduce occasionally some of the blossoms in the bud state on 
some of the very free-flowering Perpetual Roses. Let gross 
shoots on fancy Roses be pinched when a few eyes long, after 
the manner of fruit trees. Patches of Musk as edgings should 
have the tops cut off, or it grows wild. 

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. 

Most of the finer kinds of hardwooded plants will now be out 
of bloom, and, consequently, due attention must be paid to 
starting them for another season. Some, such as Boronias, 
Epacrises, &c., will require cutting-in rather closely; and, 
indeed, as loose straggling plants are at a discount now, use the 
knife liberally wherever and on whatever it is found necessary. 
Somo of the plants will probably want shifting, and this should 
not be delayed on any account longer than the middle of the 
month. After the plants have been pruned-in, and the old 
flowers and the seed-pods removed, arrange them neatly under 
a north wall on ashes, allowing plenty of space for a free cir- 
culation of air on all sides, and also provide a temporary stage, 
so that an awning can be thrown over the plants during heavy 
falls of rain. After the plants begin to grow, those which have 
not been recently potted will be benefited by an occasional 
application of weak manure water prepared from guano or 
from sheeps’ dung and soot. Keep a sharp look-out for insects 
of all kinds, also mildew, and give the plants, if the weather is 
dry, ® sprinkling once or twice a-week from the garden engine. 
The early-blooming Pelargoniums must now, if the wood is 
thoroughly ripe, be cut in preparatory to the coming season. 
Do not spare the knife, and after they are all cut-in place the 
plants in a shady situation, so that they may break strongly 
and regularly. Due attention must algo be paid to providing a 
stock of Scarlet Geraniums for winter blooming, by growing 
them throughout the summer in the full sun without allowing 
them to bloom, and by getting nice healthy plants, of medium 
growth, rather than over-luxuriant ones. Calceolarias which 
have done blooming should have their flower-stems removed 
forthwith, and the plants should be afterwards in a shady 
situation under the protection of a frame. Take care that they 
are perfectly free from insects, and to keep the thrips, which 
is a deadly enemy at bay. Fumigate the frame about once 
a-fortnight with tobacco. Many of the showy specimens of 
superior stove plants should be removed to these structures at 
this period, provided they are coming into blossom. The large 
Clerodendrons, Ixoras, Stephanotis, Pergularias, Gardenias, 
Plumbagos, Liliums, Jasminums, Erythrinas, &., are of this 
class. These when highly cultivated begin at this season to 
press on their weaker neighbours, and their beauty will, more- 
over, be longer preserved if they are slightly retarded, a greater 
depth of colour also will be produced under a moderate tem- 
perature. Look well to the training of trellis climbers whether 
in pots or out, and frequently stop the points of growing young 
stock. 

STOVE. 
Many of the basket Orchids will soon be protruding their 


462 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER, 


[ June 29, 1871. 


roots through the moss or soil, and a little additional fibrous 
peat or moss should be added in due time. When dull weather 
prevails lay by the syringe for a day or two, and increase the 
amount of both atmospheric moisture and of air. Stove stock 
in general will gain some more room by the discharge of large 
specimens into the conservatory or greenhouse. 

PITS AND FRAMES. 

These will require abundance of air and careful watering 
daily. Some of the delicate stock will at times require shading 
through the middle of the day, especially where unplunged.— 
W. Keane. 


DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. 


KITCHEN GARDEN. 

Aumost constant drizzling rain, with very heavy downpours, 
have left nothing to do in this department but to occupy every 
bit of spare ground with winter stuff. We shall not be able to 
plant out Broccoli until we can dig down a piece of Strawberries 
when the fruit has been gathered, but we shall prick-out and 
lift with balls. Owing to scarcity of room we have partly filled 
earth pits outside, from whence flowering plants have been 
taken, with the earlier winter vegetables, as the Ulm Savoy, 
the London Colewort, &e. Our ground is so full and so close- 
cropped that, like many more, we feel we sadly want more 
space for vegetables. We hardly ever think of Lettuces, Spi- 
nach, Radishes, &., as any crop; they must come as best they 
ean as intermediaries, and get out of the way before the shade 
is too dense. For instance, between rows of Raspberries 4 feet 
apart we have a row of Cabbages in the middle, and a fine row 
of Lettuces on each side of the Cabbages. The Lettuces will 
be pretty well gone before we want to gather the Raspber- 
ries. This is merely a sample. Spinach and Radishes between 
rows of Peas have been succeeded in the case of the early 
Peas by Cauliflowers, the Peas just giving them a nice shade 
at first. After clearing off Spinach between high rows of Peas, 
as Ne Plus Ultra, we have sown Radishes; but the Peas are 
threatening to be so strong and luxuriant that we fear Radishes 
even will do little good between them, and we must secure what 
is wanted daily and crisp and sweet by sowing in an open place. 
Like early Carrots, a great deal of gathering can be had from a 
small space, provided the thinning for use commences soon 
enough. By the 25th we shall sow some Dickson’s Favourite 
Pea, still a fine Pea for cropping and general purposes, and 
then afterwards sow a few of the earlier kinds, as the last for 
the season. Unless for a particular purpose it is hardly worth 
while to have Peas for gathering in the beginning of winter 
under glass protection. They come too close on the open-air 
ones in a good autumn tobe much thought of. They are some- 
thing like new Potatoes before Christmas. In February they 
would be much more prized. The carliest Peas have done first- 
rate after the heavy rains. All ours on ridges between Celery 
beds were in our opinion benefited by a good drenching of 
sewage before the rains came fast. The finest show of bloom 
on early Peas we ever saw was at Luton Hoo. The kind was 
Ringleader. The plants were comparatively dwarf, but from 
bottom to top, and forming a broad-based pyramid, the rows 
were a perfect sheet of bloom. As that was in the cold weather 
before the rain, Mr. Cadger complained that they would not 
budge, the young Pea refusing to swell, but we have no doubt 
the warm rains altered all that. Laxton’s Supreme was very 
fine last season; and as there is plenty of ground there we 
shall try and see what the new varieties will do, as most of 
them, we believe, have been sown. 

One word more for the sake of those comparatively inexperi- 
enced, and who wish to have some nice green Peas in the end 
of September and the best part of October. Do not satisfy 
yourself with merely digging a piece of ground, and then draw- 
ing a shallow drill and throwing the seeds along the narrow 
bottom, where the Peas will be close if not pell-mell on each 
other. Dig the ground from one and a half to two spits deep, 
and if some rotten dung can be incorporated all the better ; 
then, where the row is to be, take out a shallow trench a foot 
in width and some 6 inches in depth; on that trench place 
2 or 3 inches of rotten manure, fork it over to the depth of 
from 4 to 6 inches, nicely incorporating soil and manure. Let 
the shallow trench dry a little and then pass along it and tread 
it regularly, and then if the goil is at all dry give the trench a 
soaking of water. Sow the seeds shortly afterwards, giving 
them a width of 6 or more inches, and so that the seeds indi- 
vidually will be at least 3 inches apart; beat the Peas slightly 
down with the back of a spade, and then cover all over with 


from half an inch to an inch of soil. We have found no plan 
better for general, and especially for late crops, and none more 
effectual for keeping the mildew at bay, be the season moist or 
dry. It will be seen that we consider three things of import- 
ance—first, the deep moving and pulverising of the soil, that 
the roots may be encouraged to extend themselves, and mois- 
ture be enabled to pass down freely as well as to rise freely in 
the shape of vapour from beneath. Second, the firm seed bed, 
to encourage robust firm growth at first. Third, the moisten- 
ing of the ground before sowing—far better than a dozen 
shilly-shally, not root-reaching, but earth-cooling waterings 
afterwards. And we may add a fourth—scattering the seed 
thinly instead of thickly, so that each seed will have some room 
for roots and stem. But for the dread of the seeds being de- 
voured, comparatively thin seeding always yields the best result 
at gathering time. Tho red-leading enables us to sow thinly 
with safety. 

Cauliflower has never been better after the rains, even & 
buffish-coloured fine head is not despisable, but we prefer them 
white more like new-fallen snow. Need we say to beginners, 
To secure this whiteness tie the heart leaves together, so as to 
exclude the sun from the flower-head, or simply take a leaf and 
lay over it to keep the sun from it. 

Potatoes notwithstanding the heavy rains are showing as yet 
no signs of distress or cf disease. From a bank sloping to the 
south we have raised fine tubers of the Ashleaf, in size and 
quality, but still they are not the flour balls of the same sort 
that were obtained from an earth-pit covered with old sashes, 
and which place is now appropriated to Vegetable Marrows and 
ridge Cucumbers, which will have the old sash protection until 
the plants want more room outside. We are glad that our ex- 
perienced coadjutor, Mr. Robson, and others, have taken up 
the question of earthing and not earthing-up Potatoes. Our 
experience and experiments lead to these conclusions. In 
ordinary soil, and in ordinary seasons, the earthing-up is & 
matter of no importance if the Potatoes are planted about 
Ginches deep. In stiffish soils it will be advantageous to: 
earth them up early if the season should prove extra dry or 
extra wet. In the first case the tubers and rootlets seem to be 
better preserved from the drought above, and to derive more 
benefit from the moist vapours that rise from beneath, In the 
second case, the extra moisture passes away more freely. In 
ordinary seasons, and in soil neither extra stiff nor extra light, 
we have found little appreciable difference in weight or measure, 
in the case of a crop left flat or ridged. Some years ago we 
found something like a fifteenth in favour of the flat. Ina 
rainy season when the disease was not uncommon, we had the 
best crops on the ridge, and they were almost entirely free from 
the disease, whilst those on the flat were much affected. In 
such a dry season as last summer, we found there was fully 
one-tenth in quantity in favour of the ridge, and the quality 
was better, and the size more uniform. As to earthing-up, 
however, allow us to invite all keen amateurs and anxious be- 
ginners to re-read carefully Mr. Robson’s paper. It is quite a 
mistake in earthing-up, be it a Potato or a Cabbage or Cauli- 
flower, to draw the earth to a point like the ridge of a house. 
Make, as it were, two ridges, with a valley between them. Our 
good Editors: are in favour of non-earthing-up, but we know full 
well they are too liberal-hearted to think that all the wisdem is 
with them: We fully endorse, however, what they say, that 
mere opinion unproved by results is of no value. Will friends, 
therefore, give the results of carefully conducted experiments ? 
We had long practised the non-earthing system. Were we sure 
of the ancient summers with their sunshine and showers, we 
should be disposed to dispense with earthing-up. As it seems 
more uncertain whether we shall have a very wet or a very dry 
season, we feel disposed to earth-up. There is an advantage, 
too, in the very early crops. Wefrequently pull earth not only 
to but over the earliest shoots, to prevent them being nipped 
by April and May frosts. 

FRUIT GARDEN. 

The rain has been the very thing for the Strawberries. Our 
ripe ones out of doors are few and far between, but our supply 
from pots will still be good a little longer. We are glad that 
the flowering and fruiting is quite up to the old mark in so 
many places. Just round this neighbourhood, at least, the 
bloom has been defective in quantity. We took the glass 
sashes off the piece that we covered, so that it should have the 
full benefit of the raing. In such dull, sunless weather the 
glass sashes would not have advanced them a bit. That we 
have proved over and over again. The sun gladdening us 
again on this the 24th, we had the sashes put on, and early in 


June 29, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


463 


the afternoon we will enclose all the sun heat we can, so that 
we shall have a free gathering when our pots are fully exhausted. 

The rains have done much to clean the fruit trees. We find 
the wood of the Peach trees out of doors is more injured than 
we expected. This happens so frequently that really it seems 
next to waste of labour and expense to go on with them on 
open walls. We could bring to our recollection some scores of 
places where the Peach trees covered the walls most beautifully, 
but one winter greatly injured them, and the next pretty well 
settled them, and then the renewing process went on, and then 
in some eight or ten years the same fatal result ensued. We 
know there are places where the Peach on the open wall rarely 
sufiers, but for many years produces large handsome fruit. 
Bat, on the other hand, and that has been our own experience 
too, we have seen and had as fine Peach walls as were ever 
looked at, with not 6 inches of brick left uncovered, and we 
have seen the trees on these walls a few years afterwards perfect 
wrecks, not worth their room, and entirely owing to the climate, 
and chiefly the frosts of winter injuring the wood. Hence in 
most places much north of London it would often be true 
economy to front a Peach wall with glass, so as to make an 
orchard house of it. Done with cheap glass it would soon pay 
itself in the saving and bother of all protecting material. The 
carrying off the extra wet, and the securing of a still atmo- 
Sphere within in the times of severe frost, are the chief elements 
of safety. 

When trees look very queer out of doors, it is pleasant to 
look on fine healthy wood, and fruit set like ropes of Onions, 
with merely a glass protection. Went over the orchard house 
trees and thinned out ond stopped shoots, and thinned still 
more the fruit now stoning. These houses had been stuffed 
and crammed with bedding and other plants, as we had been 
passing through a period of change, and until these are accom- 
plished we have had to make the most of what glass protection 
we could command. Got these houses pretty free now though 
they look still very thick. We have gathered some fine Elton 
Cherries on the open wall, but for six weeks we have had a fine 
supply from potsin the orchard house, that were quite a picture, 
though the plants have been in the same pots for many years, 
and to save waterings have been plunged nearly to their rims, 
and have been frequently mulched, as that, too, saves watering. 
The Cherries have been uniformly good, and they bear heavily 
in pots. We have also had wonderful crops of Plums, but this 
season they are nothing remarkable, and chiefly our own fault, 
for if we had cut away the half of the crop last year, it still 
would have been an ample and heavy one. Oh! that we could 
thin enough and in time. In our Peach house we have had a 
fair crop, but we did not require to thin. The blooms in the 
Peach house had scarcely two hours’ sun on them altogether, 
and the setting in consequence was imperfect. In the orchard 
house, on the contrary, the bloom rejoiced in extra sunshine, 
and pretty well every bloom on trees on the back wall, and in 
pots in front set. 

The thinning alluded to above is the third, as it is as well 
not to go to an extreme before the stoning is perfected. It is 
unwise, on the other hand, to leave all the thinning until then. 
Some of our keen amateur friends have done go, and they have 
had in consequence no trouble in thinning, the most of the 
crop dropped at the stoning process. We have rarely had a 
fruit drop, and that from thinning early and by degrees. In 
some Peaches that do not set very freely we have found it im- 
portant to thin out the weakest and side-placed blossoms, and 
then the others set well. To prevent Peaches and Nectarines 
dropping at the stoning and second swelling process, it is well 
to thin considerably before stoning, but still to leave enough to 
thin more after the stoning is effected. As instanced above, the 
thinning is not always required. We do not think we took 
above two or three score of sound fruit out of the early Peach 
house, and yet on the whole the trees carried pretty well as 
much as they ought. We would rather thin freely, however, 
than have a deficient crop. We have sometimes thought that 
in early Peach houses the trees knew our weak point for quan- 
tity so well, that they just set and swelled little more than was 
necessary. 

But we will return to the orchard houses. The mere thin- 
ning of the fruit is not everything, so as to secure free swelling 
and prevent dropping; much of that will depend also on extra 
dryness and extra wetness. We have known the most of the 
fruit in a house drop its fruit at and after the stoning process, 
not because too many fruit had been left, but because with a 
damp surface the ground at the roots was very dry. We 
have known similar results take place when after such dryness 


& great drenching has at once béen given. In the one case the 
roots and fruit were starved; in the other case the extra 
nourishment was more than the tree could at once appropriate, 
and the glut, as it were, threw the fruit off. 

The chief remedies against dropping fruit and dropping 
buds are, first, by ample drainage to prevent stagnant water, 
and then as soon as the buds show signs of moving in the 
Spring never to allow the roots to be dry. It is often necessary 
to have the soil pretty dry in the autumn and the first winter 
months to secure due and full ripening of the wood; but this 
attained, many fruit trees in pots and borders drop their fruit 
buds in spring for want of the necessary moisture at the roots. 
The cultivator should never be satisfied with surface-appear- 
ances, but use his fingers and a pointed stick to see the state 
of the soil beneath. If the soil prove dry it is best to moisten 
by degrees, 80 as to take a week or so in the process. When 
the roots in pots are dry to the bottom, it is a good plan to 
make half a dozen holes with a small wire, and then water 
moderately at a time until the moisture percolates through the 
whole. If the plants are growing in the soil it is well to water 
thoroughly a portion ata time. These precautions will greatly 
help against dropping buds and falling fruit. Clearing out 
flowering pot plants from the orchard house enabled us, after 
moving the surface soil just the least with the points of a fork, 
to throw a little superphosphate and soot over the ground for 
8 width of 3 feet, and then give that a good watering with weak 
sewage. In about a week we shall give a good watering to 
another 3 feet. This plan we consider safer, at a critical 
period, than soaking the whole border and roots at once. When 
once the fruit is taking its second swelling kindly there is then 
less danger from a good watering all over, and if the drainage 
will prevent stagnant water there is no great danger of over- 
watering until the fruit is approaching maturity. 

Peach House.—Not wishing to have a glut, and to keep the 
fruit for use as long as possible, we gave up all firing as soon 
as the weather got warmer, and left air on night and day. The 
fruit has a deeper colour anda richer flavour when thus ripened. 
One of the prettiest sights we ever saw was at Ashridge last 
year. The trees were trained beneath the slope of a lean-to 
roof. Every fruit was fully exposed and all the lights removed. 
Not a fruit seemed to be touched, but we noticed no birds 
about. In similar circumstances here we should not have ex- 
pected to find one unpicked fruit after the first twenty-four 
hours. If we had left our front ventilators of the orchard 
house open we would soon have had no trouble in gathering 
Cherries. Birds very rarely venture through our open top 
ventilators. Rats will cunningly climb the wall and so enter, 
and go out the same way after they have done the mischief. 

Vines in the orchard house have set pretty fairly, but not so 
wellin such dull weather as if they had been privileged with 
more sun, so as to give a higher temperature. For unheated 
orchard houses the earlier kinds should chiefly be used. Hoping 
to have the place heated, we had planted some Vines of Lady 
Downes’, but it was all we could do to get them to ripen well 
last year. They like a good heat to set freely. These Vines 
haying but little earth room had a good rich watering, and 
Vines in vineries planted against back walls, &c., were treated 
with the same. The Vines have had no syringing, and in the 
late dull weather very little water has been sprinkled on paths 
or stages. When bright weather comes more water will be 
sprinkled on patha to promote a moister atmosphere. 


ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. 
The work was very much a continuance of that of last week. 
We are an unsatisfied set of grumblers. Last season we com- 
plained of the want of wet, and now we are apt to think the 
grass grows sadly too fast for us. No weather could be better 
for all fresh-planted trees and shrubs. We cannot but sympa- 
thise with those who have great breadths of grass cut, and 
which will be much injured for hay. All planting in field and 
garden with the dibber could be done pretty well where the soil 
did not stick to the feet. Where planting with the trowel must 
be resorted to, we prefer waiting until the soil is drier. Plants 
never thrive so well when planted in cloggy soil. We hope, 
however, soon to get all our bedding plants, including Coleus, 
&e,, out. The cloggy soil has alone prevented us. We will 
then go a-head with potting, &c.—R. F. 


TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED. 


Thomas S. Ware, Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, London, Ni— 
Fuialoge of Perennials, including Herbaceous, Bulbous, and Tuberous 
nts. 


464 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 29, 1871. 


————— aaa“ rs SS EE EE EE EEE eee 


TO CORRESPONDENTS. 

** We request that no one will write privately to any of the 
correspondents of the “ Journal of Horticulture, Cottage 
Gardener, and Country Gentleman.” By doing so they 
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All 
communications should therefore be addressed solely to 


The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, éc., 171, Fleet 
Street, London, E.C. 


Bo questions must remain unanswered until next 
week. 


& F ee 
Namine FLowers (C. H.).—We cannot name florists’ varieties. A 
dozen specimens at once ig just twice too many. 


_ OLD PiInzE StRAwsBeERRY (B. I. Z.).—Any nurseryman who advertises 
in our columns could obtain it for you. 


PACKING STRAWBERRY Puants (4. P.).—The following directions ar® 
given by an American nurseryman:—‘* Take up good, sound, young, and 
well-established runners; remove all decayed leaves, tie the plants in 
bunches of twenty-five or fifty, with their crowns evenly arranged ; wrap 
in moist moss; pack tight in an open box, with the crowns upwards, 


and ed slats across the top to keep them in, and yet allow free access 


ANTs ON RosE TrEEs (Goddess).—You had better spare the ants, they 
do no harm and only feed on the honeydew deposited by the aphides. 
It is a popular delusion that they destroy the aphides, they are wise 
enough not to kill the goose that lays the golden egg, and merely feed 
on the honeydew, which is a secretion from the aphis. If, however, 
**GoppEss”’ wishes to drive the ants away, she can do so by tying a 
piece of tar-band round the stem of each standard Rose tree, dipping the 
tar-band previously in carbolic acid. A fresh application of carbolic acid 
to the tar-band will effectually prevent the ants from passing it, if at any 
time the smell of the carbolic acid has evaporated. 


_ PICKING-OFF DEAD FLOWERS oF Roses (H. A ).—You are quite right 
in the plan you have usually followed, as there is no use in leaving th® 
dead unsightly heads of Roses on the trees after they have done bloom 
ing, unless you wish to save seeds of choice varieties. It is better to cut 
back to within four or five eyes of the base of the shoot, on which the 
Rose has bloomed. We doubt whether Monplaiser is hardy enough to 
stand the winter out of doors unprotected. Much depends on soil and 


climate. If in a sheltered position or against a wall it would most 
probably be hardy enough. 


_IRESINE LINDENI PROPAGATION (L. E.).—It strikes freely from cut- 
tings. _ The cuttings may be of the points of the shoots, and if they have 
two joints with the growing points it is sufficient. Trim off the leaves 
from the lowest joint, and insert up to the next pair of leaves around the 
sides of pots about an inch apart, in a compost of equal parts loam, sandy 
peat, leaf soil, and silver sand. Place in a gentle hotbed of 76°, shading 
from bright sun, keeping close, and just moist. In abonta fortnight the 
cuttings will be well rooted, and should be hardened-off, and then potted 
singly in 3-inch pots, placing in a cold frame, and keeping rather close 
and shaded for a few days until established. They should be removed 
to a greenhouse before cold weather sets in, and may be wintered amongst 
other bedding plants, but are better kept in a coel stove or warm green- 
house. The soil should be kept dry in winter, giving no water, only to 
keep the foliage fresh. The plants may have 43-inch pots in September, 
and either have the points of the shoots taken out, or be stopped to two 
joints. The plants will give cuttings in February, and those struck ina 
hotbed make nice plants by the bedding-out time. The beginning of 


August is a good time to put in the cuttings. They will also strike freely 
at that time in a cold close frame. 


GymMNoGramMA INFESTED wiTH ScaxE (M. S. B.).—The fronds you sent 
Us are covered with a black fungus occasioned by the secretions of the 
brown scale (coccus). which you will find on the leafstalk (stipes) of the 
fronds. The only remedy is to cut off the worst infested parts and re- 
Move all the insects that are not brown and hard with the point ofa 
knife. The best plan for those that are brown and hard is to take them 
in the hand and rub them between the finger and thumb so as to destroy 
the young, to which the brown scales serve as covering. Youmay then 
brush over all the stipes and where the brown scale appears with a 
Solution of gum arabic, 1oz. to half a pint of water; ths gum to be 
thoroughly dissolved. In two or three days wash off with warm water. 
The Picking-off with a knife is a tedious proceeding, but is safe. We 
advise it in preference to any wholesale destruction by composition, 
which on Ferns require very great care. 


Buppina Fruit Trezs (J. H. D.).—All the kinds you name may be 
budded at the beginning of July, in forward seasons, and this year about 
the middle of that month; but much depends on the weather and the 
Season. Asarule the Cherry is the first fit to bud, then you may fo'low 
with the Apple and Pear, then the Plum, and last the Peach and Nectarine. 
Ifyou have Apricots they willstand second. You will find instructions for 
budding, and much information relating to gardening craft, in the 
‘Science and Practice of Gardening.” It may be had post free from our 
office for 8s.8}d. All budding should be done by the close of July, in 
forward seasons up to the second week in August. There is no work 
treating of what youname, You ought to have the “ Cottage Gardoner’s 
Dictionary,” price from our office, free by post, 7s. 2d. 


FLoor For SHED (Passion).—We have our shed floors formed of cement 
They are yery hard, eyen, dry, and durable. The floor is made level, and, 
if any loose soil is put in, rammed firm. Then put on about 6 inches in 
thickness of brickbats or other rubble, and make the surface as small as 
possible, breaking the surface with a hammer. When this ia complete it 
should have left about an inch deep for the cement. Then take of Port- 
land cement about equal parts to that of gravel sifted through a half- 
inch riddle. The gravel should be free from sand or dirt, and if not it 
should be washed. We use sea gravel. Mix with water to the consis- 
tency of thin mortar, Run on, and make level, smoothing over witha 
trowel, making an even surface. The cost is about 2s. per yard. 


Sowine FOR FLOWERS NEXT SPRING (Idem).—Alyssum saxatile com- 
pactum, Arabis albida, Aubrietia greca, Canterbury Bells vars., Myosotis 
sylvatica and var. alba, Brompton Stock, Viola cernuta, V. lutea, Wall- 
flower—double German, single dark, and yellow, 


JAPANESE HoONEYSUCKLE FLOWERING.—We are obliged to the writers 
of fifteen letters telling of this; it is evidently so usual an occurrence 
that no one need advise us of the fact. 


Various (4 Constant Subscriber).—1, Geraniums to flowerin June may 
be stopped at the beginning of May, or about seven weeks before flower- 
ing. 2, For flowering in winter, Salvia cuttings ought now to be put in, 
and the plants forwarded go as to have them strong and bushy before 
autumn. It is now quite late enough. Ours are well-established in 
small pots from cuttings struck at the end of May. 3, #chmea falgens 
is a stove plant, and very fine for winter flowering. 


NicHt Som Urinisine (9. Wales) —The earth is the best disinfectant. 
Could you not apply it to the soil and dig it in at once? The best plan, 
however, is to mix it thoroughly with dry soil, and in this way there is no 
need of a disinfectant. The soil should be placed on it in a shed, and 
covered with the dry soil there is no smell of consequence. The sewage 
may be poured on the ground, either diluted with water between growing 
crops of vegetables, or on ground before cropping. 


_ LILY OF THE VALLEY IN SumMMER (A Constant Subscriber).—Givo a top 
dressing of well-rotted manure about half an inch thick, and copious 
waterings in dry weather. 


MILDEW ON PLANTS IN CoNsERYVATORY (Idem).—It is usually most 
abundant in a moist, close, badly-ventilated structure. The only remedy 
is to dust the infested parts with flowers of sulphur. Camellias, Heaths, 
and Azaleas now removed from a conservatory to the open air ought not 
to bepruned. It will do away with the flowering next year. 


CAULIFLOWERS BurTonine (C. W.).—Your plants run, or what is known 
to gardeners as“ buttoning.” The most frequent cause is planting old 
plants, those that have been a long time sown and are old before plant- 
ing, the check consequent on that causing them to run. We advise you 
to raise your own plants, sowing the seed thinly in an open situation, 
and when about 3 inches high prick the plants out about 8 inches apart, 
and when 6 inches high plant out 2 fect apart. Water well in dry weather, 
and apply liquid manure between the rows. Instead of being the size of 
a half-crown piece, the heads should be the size of a quart basin. 


Grape DIsEAsED (J. D.).—It is very severely shanked. Apply more 
nourishment and warmth to the roots. 


SuNDIALs (——).—We cannot tell where you can purchase one. Some 
correspondent will, perhaps, send us the information. Put on it, if you 
obtain one, the Temple monitory motto— Go about your business.” 


MusxHrRooms IN Beps (J. E., Antwerp).—There is little risk of unwhole~ 
some Mushrooms growing in prepared beds with proper Mushroom spawn 
used. The heating of the materials does much to extirpate all unwhole- 
some Fungi. A few Fungi may sometimes appear before the true Mush- 
room appears, but they are so different that there is no difficulty in dis- 
tinguishing them. There are no better instructions for Mushroom- 
growing than have appeared in our pages. 


Pxiums oN LEAFLEsS SHooTs (dn Amateur).—It used to be supposed 
that stone fruit would not swell nor ripen unless there were a terminal 
shoot, or, at least, some leaves before the fruit, but we have gathered fine 
fruit when these were wanting. Still itis desirable to have such leaves 
to keep up a healthy circulation of sap. In your case we would thin the 
fruit more than usual, encourage shoots further back, and as soon as the 
fruit was ripe cut out all these leafless shoots. The cause is the want of 
a wood bud at the point, or on the shoots. All the buds had been fruit 
buds. This is sometimes apt to happen when the pinching-back system 
in summer is rigidly carried out. You cannot pot your Black Ham- 
burghs too soon into 12 or 18-inch pots, and if they fill the pots well with 
roots, and the wood is well matured, they will show fruit well next 
season. Everything will depend—first, on free growth; and secondly, om 
maturing and hardening that growth. 


HEATING VINERY AND GREENHOUSE (W. R.).—We should prefer the 
heating as at No.1, the boiler being placed at the junction of the two 
houses. Youcan then heat the two houses, each independently of the 
other. In plan No. 2, you must take the pipes through the vinery to 
heat the greenhouse. You may, however, so manage as to take a flow 
and return merely through the vinery, the other pipes being shut off 
when not wanted. If you do not raise the temperature of the vinery 
above 45° in winter, it will not matter heating that before the greenhouse, 
if there is enough of piping in the latter to make a lowish temperature 
in the water suitable. A bed in the centre of the yinery would make a 
good propagating-pit, especially if you cover the bed with lights or 
sashes. You can thus have a higher temperature, say 60° to 70° in the 
air of the bed, and not more than from 40° to 45° in the general atmo- 
sphere of the house. 2, There is little practical difference in wood or 
iron for glass roofs, the last if galvanised will cost less afterwards for 
painting. There have been at least three editions of Loudon’s “ Enoy- 
clopedia of Gardening,” the last the best. 


RetuRN FxLue (An Old Subscriber)—There is no objection to the 
return flue so as to have the chimney at the same end as the furnace. 
There is also no objection to the raising the same flue to the ground 
level. If there is a difference, the furnace being left all the same it will 
draw all the better, but when you raise the flue you lose the benefit of 
the sunk cistern or pit. We would prefer raising the new part of the flue 
and letting the othor remain as it is. You may grow Vines in sucha 
house 4 feet apart, if you do not want plants in summer, andif the ayerage 
temperature in winter for your plants is not above 45°. All herbaceous 
plants are suitable for an herbaceous border, but you must choose as to 
whether you want them tall, dwarf, or of medium height. A Phlox 
6 feet in height and one less than 6 inches would not do well together. 
These matters should be stated. 


Rep INsEcT ON ORCHARD-HOUSES PEACHES (C. @.).—We cannot con- 
ceive what you have on the Peaches unless it be Aphis Persicm, but that 
is not small, and it is more black and brown than red. You say it is not 
red spider. We would use soap water and tobacco water, and in the 
morning after syringe strongly with clear water. 


Insects (Old Rowley).—The insects which have attacked the roots of 
your Lettuces are the lary of one of the smaller species of daddy long- 
legs (Tipula sp.). The roots should be carefully searched as soon as the 
plant flags, and the larve destroyed by hand. We know no liquid appli- 
cation which will destroy them without injuring the plants. Children 
should ue employed to catch the flies when they appear in the perfect 
state—I. O. W. 


29, 1871. ] 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


465 


= SE i ee ee EEE EE 


Names oF Puants (iM. P. Gr.).—You haye sent seventeen specimens, 
and we cannot attend to so many. 


POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. 


HANTS AND BERKS AGRICULTURAL 


SOCIETY'S POULTRY SHOW. 


We like the idea of change. We like locomotion. We like to turn 
over fresh books, or fresh pages. We think great benefit results from 
it. It is good for all—the society, managers, judges, and every 
official. It is good for exhibitors. ‘Vhere are few localities that have 
not some speciality, and no man is a judge of the merit of his own till 
he has been in contact with others. When we saw the large Show of 
last week, we felt glad we had been allowed to assist at its growth and 
development. It has sprung from the small plain chrysalis at Basing- 
stoke, living only a few hours in the day, to the large Show we saw on 
Wednesday and Thursday last at Portsmouth. The few cattle and 
horses tethered in the open, have disappeared to make space for the 
long, covered, and protected sheds. The scarce pens of sheep have 
stretched their entries till they extend over acres. The horses may 
be taken in troops. Steam engines seem to snort defiance at each 
other ; the whirr of the wheels is heard in all directions. The Bath 
and West of England treads on the heels of our respected Royal Agri- 
cultural, and the Royal Counties (Hants and Berks), treads on the 
heels of the Bath and West of England. True, we have to do only 
with poultry, but we cannot help noticing the progress that is made in 
all things. All sorts of things follow these meetings. Every requisite 
for the farm, for the cottage ornée, for the dairy, for the kitchen, for 
the garden, carriages that are miracles for lightness and elegance, 
churns that make the operation almost a luxury instead of a labour. 
Such cunningly mixed food for all sorts of quadrupeds, and sold at 
such low rates that the marvel is, that every man does not keep at 
least a cow and two horses. It puts us in mind of a continental fair 
that lasts a fortnight, and attracts every description of trade. It did 
50, because in one of the most frequented rows there was a shop that 
had nought to do with agriculture, more like fairings or keepsakes, 
or shall we say love-tokens, paper cases, travelling and work-bags, 
marvels of leather-work in every way, and tempting things in metal, 
we had almost called it jewellery. Theso stalls are attractive to 
couples of a certain age. ‘That particular certain age people rejoice 
in and are proud of. ‘The advent of such wares and merchants proves 
the good that is done by these meetings. Thousands are brought, 
hundreds learn, and all are amused. We must, however, now in good 
sober truth deal with our subject, and (reat of poultry. It is time, 
and if we continue our remarks and reminiscences, we shall come in 
contact with flower shows, military bands, George II.’s state carriage, 
an Arabian horse that made us covet, &c. 

The Dorkings headed the list and showed good birds, but we are 
compelled to repeat that which we often write, Spurs outside the legs 
are disqualification. The prize birds were heavy and in good con- 
dition. The commended pens were also meritorious. There is a 
tendency to send the first prize for Cochins to Birmingham, and the 
present was no exception, Miss Julia Milward’s birds made it a diffi- 
cult case. Many hens at this time of year lose from largely-developed 
and, consequently, falling and crooked combs, when later in the year 
after moulting and before laying, they would be successful. Game 
were good, and the competition was close between Black Reds and 
Duckwings and Piles, if it were necessary to say which was best. We 
believe these birds are being bred too leggy. Polands are well repre- 
sented in Hampshire, and the prizes in their class were among the 
best-contested in the Show. If there had been more prizes, they 
might haye been awarded deservedly. It was hard to give Mr. 
Edwards only a high commendation, but it was unavoidable. The 
Golden and Silver were excellent. Spanish are not popular in this 
county, and this year they formed no exception, only a second prize 
was awarded. Hamburghs were ‘‘to the fore” in quality and num- 
bers, but as we had occasion to observe during the winter and early- 
spring shows, the Golden are going a-head of the Silver. In both 
classes, Pencilled and Spangled, it was so. The Silver-spangled might 
almost take exception to our report, but we must say that although 
they were very meritorious (vde the prize list), yet the Golden were 
still better. The Light Brahmas were an excellent exhibition. Many 
of them were beautiful birds. The winners perform an exploit, and 
may be proud of it. The Dark Brahmas (alas! that it should be 80), 
were inferior to the Light, and vulture hocks hindered success where 
it might otherwise have been easy. The next class is peculiar to 
Hampshire. We cannot find one ont of that county when it is com- 
posed of Andalusians. There was a good one here. We can speak 
well of the Game Bantams, which were truly smart. In the Any 
other variety class it will give a good idea of the competition in 
Silver Sebrights if we append the names of the successful, First, 
the Rev. G. F. Hodson; second, Mrs. Pettat, Ashe Rectory. The 
Hrench fowls bear out the report of the English judges. The Créve- 
Cceurs are the best, the Houdans second, and then the La Fleche. 
The cock in the prize Créve-Cour pen of the Rev. N. J. Ridley was 
one of the best we ever saw. The Varieties are very much the same 
everywhere. Malays, Black Hamburghs, and Silkies took the prizes. 


Strange to say, the Aylesbury Ducks were better than the Rouens. 
The latter were not up to the mark. The Jurkeys were as good as we 
ever saw. We.would especially name those belonging to the Rey. N. J. 
Ridley, combining feather and weight in an eminent degree. 

There was a very pleasing show of Pigeons. Forming part of it 
was a pair of the Bleeding Heart—a rare and curious bird. There 
were also excellent Rabbits, showing all the varieties in colour, shape, 
or size. The weather was unfavourable, but on the only fine day up- 
wards of 20,000 people visited the Show. No notice of this pleasant 
meeting would be complete if it did not bear testimony to the hearty 
co-operation and assistance of the Mayor and Corporation of Ports- 
mouth. A town incurs a debt to those who represent it so worthily. 
The same may be said of Mr. Downes and the Society itself. He has 
worked earnestly, and is reaping his reward; the Society owes its 
success to him. 


Dorxines.—l, J. Smith, Shillinglee Park, Petworth. 2, Miss J. Milward, 
Newton St. Loe. he, Miss Pasley, Fareham; J. Smith. 

Coourys.—1, H. Lloyd, jun., Handsworth. 2, Miss J. Milward. 

Game.—Black-breasted and other Reds.—1, H. Gibson, Brockenhurst. 2, W- 
H. Stagg, Netheravon. Any other Variety.—l, S.Matthews, Stowmarket. 2,G. 
Potts, Chartham. 

Potanps.—l, J. Hinton, Warminster. 2, Mrs. Pettat, Ashe Rectory. hc, T.P. 
Edwards, Lyndhurst (2); Mrs. Pettat; H. Pickles, jun., Earby, Skipton. = 

foe eae Withheld. 2, Rey. J. De L. Simmonds, Chilecomb Rectory, Win- 
chester. 

Hampurcus.—Gold-pencilled.—l, F. Pittis, jun., Newport. 2, H. Pickles, jun. 
Silver-pencilled.—1 and 2, H. Pickles, jun. ¢, C. F. Wilson, Totton, Hants. 
Gold-spangled.—1, R. Wilkinson. Guildford. 2,H. Pickles,jun. Silver-spangled. 
—land Ae H, Pickles,jun. 2, Miss E. Brown, Chardleigh Green, Chard. c, Mrs. 
Pettat (2). 

Brauma Pootra.—Light.—l, H. M. Maynard, Holmewood, Ryde. 2, Rev. N. 
J. Ridley, Newbury. he, J. Pares, Postford, Guildford (3); J. Morton, Guildford. 
Dark.—1, H. D. Dent, Gloucester. 2, J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury. _ 

ANDALUSIAN.—l, O. Nicholson, Landport. 2 and he, W. Wildey, Cosham. 
c, W. Westcott, Landport. ‘ 

Bantams.—Game.—l, C. J. Spary, Veninor. 2, J. Smith. he, J. Pares; A. 
Cruttenden, Haywards Heath. c, E.S.C, Gibson,Ryde. <Any other Variety.— 
1, G. F. Hodson, North Petherton, Bridgewater. 2, Mrs. Pettat. he, H. M. 
Maynard. Rc ; 

FRENcH Fowns (Créve-Cour, La Fléche, er Houdans).—1 and 8, Rey. N. J. 
Ridley, Newbury. 2, Hills & Co., Brighton. he, J. K. Fowler. d 

ANY OTHER VariETy.—l, J. Hinton. 2, C. Maggs, Melksham. 8, Miss E. J. 
N. Hawker, Tunbridge Wells. 

Duvoxrs.—Rouen.—l, G. Chase, Titchfield, Fareham. 2, W. B. Stubbs, Alres- 
ford. Aylesbury—ti, A. P. Marvin, Fareham. 2, J. K. Fowler. Any other 
Variety.—1, F. Pittis, jun., Newport. 

GerxEseE.—1, J. KX. Fowler. 4 " 3 

TurkEYS.—l, Rey. N. J. Ridley. 2, T. Bailoy. he, Miss J. Milward; Mrs. d. 
Mayhew, Great Baddow, Chelmsford. 

PicEons.—Carriers.—l, H.M. Maynard, Ryde. 2, H. Yardley, Birmingham. 
Tumblers.—1, J. Ford, London. 3, H, Yardley. he, W.H. Cooper, Farnborough. 
Faniails—l, H. Yardley. 2,H.M. Maynard. he, Miss J. Milward. Trumpeters. 
—l, A. P. Maurice, Basingstoke. 2, H. Yardley. Magpies.—l, A. P. Maurice. 
2, H. Yardley. Any other Variety —1, H. Boyer, Bourne. 2, H. M. Maynard. 
he, H. Yardley; W. H. Cooper; W. Fielder, Southsea. 

Rappits.—Longest Lars.—l, H. Cawood, Thorne. 
Foreign.—l and ke, J. F. Marsden, Whitley, Reading. 
other Variety—1l, H. Hollands, Southsea. 2, H. Simmons, Portsea. 
Simmons; T. Snook, Landport. c,J.F. Marsden (2). 


Extra Stock.—c, W.B. Boxall, Strathfieldsaye (Peacock); W. W. Curtis, juns 
Portsmouth (Peacock). 


Jupcz.—Mr. John Baily, 113, Mount Street, Grosvenor Square, 
London. 


2, G. Hill, Winchester- 
2, H. Cawood. <Any 
he, Be 


SPALDING POULTRY SHOW. 


Tue poultry showed rather a decrease in the number of entries from 
that of our previous exhibitions, but the 192 pens brought together 
represented specimens of a high character of all our cultivated birds. 
It is to be regretted that so liberal a schedule fails to bring a larger 
competition. The fact is indisputable that the best time of the year 
for the showing of flowers and fowls is not one and the same. Those, 
however, who visited this department on Thursday last may rest 
assured that, although an autumn’s competition wonld have brought a 
much larger collection, they haye seen the pick of some of the most 
noted yards in the kingdom. , 

Dorkings and Game were good. The cup Brown Reds of Mr. Julian’s 
were shown in the condition usual with that gentleman. Cochins and 
Brahmas were more numerous, and we think it must have puzzled the 
Judge whether to award the cup to the well-developed Buffs of Mr. Lacy 
or the grand pen of Whites of Mr. Sichel, which were shown in the 
very pink of condition, their brilliant combs and wattles forming 
beautiful contrast with their perfectly clear and snowy white plumage. 
The Buffs were, however, the fortunate recipients of the highest honour. 
In Brahmas the names of Pares, Crook, Rodbard, and Lacyare a sufti- 
cient guarantee for the quality of the birds. Spanish and Hamburghs 
were few, but good. The Silver-spangles of Mr. Beldon will be diffi- 
cult to beat. The cock in this pen is eight years old, and wins another 
cup in addition to his many victories. Dantams were first-rate, notably 
the winning Game, the Pekin and the pretty little Whites of Mr. Bel- 
don’s. It may be subject for remark that this purely agricultural 
district could afford only one couple of dressed fowls in their class. 

The Pigeons were the grandest collection ever seen in Spalding. 
Carriers formed a show in themselves. Those shown by Messrs. Fulton, 
Horner, and Massey will hold their own in any contest. A very grand 
young Dun cock the property of the latter was left out in the cold. 
Though he failed to attract the Judges’ eye, he did not escape the 
scrutiny of some of the knowing ones, as £20 was refused for him 
immediately on the opening of the Show. Mr. Fulton’s Black cock was 
the best of its colour, and well merited its position as first-prize. Pouters 
were very fine, and the Almond and other Short-faced Tumblers were 


466 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 29, 1871. 


shown in perfection. Mr. Ford’s cup pen contained a pair of gems 
Barbs were shown in all colours, a pair of Reds of Mr. Massey's were 
the winners of the other cup. The Dragoons were designated by the 
Judge in the catalogue to be ‘a very good class.” ‘Fantails, Owls, 
Jacobins, and Trumpeters all contained unusually good specimens. In 
Turbits we thought very highly of the winning Black, a colour not 
frequently seen in perfection in this variety. 


The Cage Birds were a yery interesting collection, the King Parrot 
of Mr. Harrison's was a magnificent specimen. 

Rabbits were very numerous, and some excellent specimens were 
shown in all the varieties. The Lop-eared of Mr. Easten’s repeat 
their usual p-rformance of taking the cup. 


Dorgnas.— :loured.—l, J. Stott, Healey. 2. J. White, Warlaby. 3, R. W- 
Richardson, Bevirley. he, E. W. Southwood, Fakenham. Any eter Variety. 
—1, W. J. Wood® suse, Lynn (White), 

GanE.—Brow?, vreasted Reds—1 and Cup, H. M. Julian, Hull. 2, H. E. 
Ea Seer 8, # mabe, Stowmarket. Black-breasted Reds.—1, W. 

. L. 8s. 2,5, . 8, — Fairbank 0 iety.— 
i's: Matters (peeing atthew. 8,— Fairbanks. Any other Variety- 
TECGHNS.— Cinnamon and Buf.—1 and Cup, H. Lacy, Hebden Bridge. 2, H. 
yi oyd, jun., Birmingham, 8. Mrs. A. Woodcock, Leicester. hc, J. N. Beasley, 
pion ampton ; .W. FE. Checkley, Northampton. c, W. Sanday, Nottingham. 
ee other Variety.—1, J. Sichel, Timperley (White). 2, H. Lacy. 38, S. A. 
erase Moulsey (White). hc, E. Leech, Rochdale; T. Sharpe, Pontefract 

Brawntas.—Dark.—1 and 8, H. Lacy. 2,3. H. Pickles, Southport. he, J. S. 
Dew; J. Sichel; H. Lacy. Light—1, Miss A. Williamson, Leicester. 2; J.R. 
Rodbard, Wrington. 8, F. Crook, Forest Hill. he, Mrs. A. Worthington, 
piven on Trent ap pee, Mnlpie Street; F. Crook. 

—1, T. C. . Newbitt, Epworth. 2, H. WL re . 
Woward, Peckham. he, J. Powell, Barone BE Pelton eingley ine 
m Haxpurcus.—Gold-pencilled.—1, H. Pickles,jun. 2,H.Beldon. 8, J. Rollin- 
son, Lindley. Silver-pencilled.—1, H. Beldon. 2, H. Pickles, jun. Gold- 
spangled, H. Beldon. 2, J. Rollinson. 8, ©. Phillimore, Cheltenham. he, J. 

ollnson ; L. Wren, Lowestoft. c, E. Y. Gardon, Newcastle. Silver-spangled. 
—land Cup, H. Beldon. 2, H. Pickles, jun. 

Game Bantams.—Brown-breasted Reds.—1 and 2, T. C. & E. Newbitt. 8, G. 
pores Lynn. Black-breasted Reds.—1 and Cup, W. Grice, Bootle. 2, G. 

odd, Sunderland. 3, T. C. & E. Newbitt. he, J. R. Robinson; T. C. & E. New- 


bitt; G. Maples, jun. c, W. i e ety 
ae ilaples. J , W. Adams, Ipswich. Any other Variety—1 and 2, T. 


here et White.—1, H. Beldon (White). 2, S.& R. Ashton (Black). 


Birmingham, iely.— 
fe Ms. A. Woeecone am, <Any other Variely1, M. Leno. 2, H. Beldon. 
RENCH.—1, H. Beldon. 2, J. Sichel (Créve-Cceurs). 8, Mrs. J. Cross, Bri 

(Houdans), he, Mrs. J. Cross (Créve-Cceurs); R. B. Wood, Uttoxeter; S. 0 
‘Willie (La Fléche); W. Dring, Faversham (Houdaus). 

roan poaee Yarrety.—1, H. Beldon (Polands). 2, W. K. Patrick, West Winch 
ee an 8). 3, W. Massey. Spalding (White Leghorn), he, H. Pickles, jun. 
(si ver olands); W. K. Patrick (Polands); R. Wilkinson, Guildford (White 

aorea) E. Fane, Grantham; Rey. A. G. Brooke, Shrawardine (Malay). 

= ELLING Cuass.—l, W. Nottage, Northampton (Black Spanish). 2, H. N. 
Gone Spalding. 8, W. Massey (Houdan). he, W. K. L. Clare (Black Red 
Mamie); ie Hancock, Spalding (Brahmas); A. Cole, Long Sutton (Hamburghs); 
fe owel (White-faced Black Spanish); T. Hardy (Dark Brahmas); H. Bates 
(Hamburghs). c, B.S. Smith (Dark Brahmas). 

Ducks.—Rouen.—1 and Cup, E. Leech. 2, J. White. Aylesbury.—tl, W. 
pelencnousey Whitby. 2, J. Williams, Wath-upon-Dearne. <Any other Variety. 
TS an aarin) pat ‘i Hucherasen: ; 8, W. Binns (Bahama). hic, R. 

. 3_5S. & R. Ashton, Mottram (Carolina). 

GEESE.—1, T. Hardy, Spalding. ! enna) 

PIGEONS. 
x CaRntERS.—Black—Cock.—l and 2, R. Fulton, Depfford. vhe, E. Horner, 
eeds. Hen.—1 and 2, R. Fulton. vhc, W. Massey, Spalding. he, F. W. Met- 
ealfe, Cambridge; W. Massey; E. Horner. 
Pe ETE ES el other Colour.— Cock.—1, H. Yardley, Birmineham. 2, W. 
assey. Hen.—l, R. Fulton. 2, E. Horner. he, H. Yardley. Single Bird.— 
iand 2, W. Massey. hc, H. Yardley; E. Horner (2). c, J.C. Ord. 

PouTERs.—Cock.—1 and he, R. Fulton. 2,J. Hawley, Bradford. Hen.—land 
2,R. Fulton. he.R. Fulton; E. Horner. 

HL UMBLERS.—Almond.—1 and Cup. J. Ford, Monkwell Street, London. 2, E. 
oan bers alton Bey other Variety.—1, R. Fulton. 2, J. Fielding, 
SA , W. B. Ford (Black Mottled); E. Horner (Mottled). ¢, W. 
v4 ar eran Supe Wenlaasey: 2, E. Horner. hc, W. Massey; E. Horner. 

rae % e Bird.—1, A. A. ing. 2, R. W. 
Hichardeen rae ta , A. A. Vander Meersch, Tooting. 2, R. W. 


eas eh E. Horner. 2, G. Roper, Croydon. hc, R. Fulton; W. Massey; 


Fantains.—l, H. Yardloy. 2, E. Horner. 

TRUMPETERS.—] and 2, E. Horner. 

TURBITS.—1, G. Roper. 2,J. Fielding, jun. he, E. Horner. 

Ours SL) J. Fielding, jun. 2,R.Fulton. he, J. Ford; E, Horner. 

Te EES W. Massey. 2, A. Ashton. 

ER VARIETY.—1, S.A. i 3 5 5 . 
shee Ceo eens 1,5. A. Wyllie (Runts). 2,J. Watts. he, W. B. Teget- 
eee ena Ge ReDET ane: oh Ord (White Da oer aes Not- 
: - J. arm, Newark-on-' eae Geel ier; W. No 5 W. 
Massey (Dragoons) : J. Watts. rene ay, maui meh 
CAGE BIRDS. 

Canary.—l, L. Belk, Dewsbury. 2, G. Dykes, Pinchbeck. he, A. Lewis, Hull; 
L. Belk; J. N. Harrison, Belper. 

LINNET, GoLprFiNncg, OR OTHER EnaisH Fixcn.—1, J. N. Harrison. 2, J. 
W. Harrison, Spalding. he, W. Kitchin, Spalding; L. Belk. ¢, W. Massey. 

Larx.—l, J. H. Eaves, Boston. 2, D. Bates, Spalding. he, E. Muschamp. 

TurvusH.—l, H. Jacklin, Spalding. 2, B. Seymour, Spalding. he, J. E. Greenall, 

BrAckBirp.—1, J. H. Eaves. 2, R. D. Borne, Boston. 

Parror, PaRAQUETTE, LOREY, OR OTHER ForEIGN Brrp.—l, J. W. Harrison. 
2, J. E. Storr, Spalding. he, Mrs. Botticey; W. Vickers ; J. Capps. 


Heaviest —t, W. Arkwright, Chesterfield. 2, T. Mumby, Long Sutton. hk 
‘T.—l, W. eht, esterfield. 2,T.Mumby, Long Sutton. he,J. 
H. Louth, Spalding; A. H. Easten, Hull. 2 : 

Lop-rarep.—1 and Cup, A. H. Fasten. 2, J. Hume, Laynthorpe. 

Fancy, mxorpt Lop-rarep.—l, §. G. Hudson, Hull (Silver-Grey). 92, A. H. 
Easten (Himalayan). he, A. H. Basten (Angora White); S.G. Hudson, Hull; 
3. Greenwood, Hebden Bridge (Silyer-Grey); W. Morley, Northampton (Dutch) ; 
R. H. Glen, Wakefield (Silver-Grey); H. B. Massey (Leporide) % 

SELLING Cuass.—l, H. Pickworth, Spalding. 2, E. Vaughan, Birmingham 
(Angora). he, E. Vaughan; §. Greenwood (Silver-Grey); J. Pickworth (Silver- 
Grey); W. Morley (Dutch); J. G. Quick, St. John’s Wood (2). 


Jupers. — Mr. Richard Teebay, Fulwood, near Preston; Mr. F, 
Esquilant, Brixton. 


_.Warrineton Pounrry Saow.—For fowls there are fifteen 
silver cups to be awarded at this Exhibition, in addition to 


the usual prizes of 40s., 20s., and 10s. in each class; and for 
paces ten silver cups, in addition to the prizes of 20s., 10s., 
and 5s. 


EXETER POULTRY AND PIGEON SHOW. 


AurHouGH for the display of a large show of poultry few, if any, 
grounds can be better than those of Northern Hay, at Exeter, being 
terraced, and wooded with an abundance of most extraordinary well- 
grown elms, in case of really bad weather nothing can be more ex- 
posed to a driving rain ; and such, most unfortunately, was the case on 
Thureday last, the 22nd inst. It would be almost impossible to recall 
to mind a more unfavourable day as to weather. Of course, placed 
entirely in the open air, no collection under such adverse circumstances 
could be seen to advantage, and the very slight public attendance that 
ensued must detract from the admission money very considerably 
indeed. Still, in such energetic hands as the present Committee, we do 
not fear but every effort to provide against so unfavourable a con- 
tingency another season will be carefully considered. 

Certainly one of the great features of this Show was the Pigeons, 
class after class being shown of most excellent quality, and the entries 
for numbers were unquestionably good. It will be seen by referring to 
the prize-list that Mr. Bulpin, of Bridgwater, took many prizes with 
yery superior pens, and capitally shown. This gentlemaz’s first-prize 
pens in Fantails, Pouters, Barbs, Trumpeters, and Owls fully maintain- 
ing the high repute of their owner's selection. 

In fowls, Hamburghs were in most instances quite equal to those 
shown in even Yorkshire. Strange to say, there was not a single 
entry in the Turkey class; but in the Bantam class many a pen of 
home pets were present that the soaking rain prevented anyone seeing 
to advantage. Some of the grandest pens of Minorca fowls, both 
White and Black, were exhibited. They are great favourites in these 
districts, and, we are told, most unvarying layers. Some of the hens 
were very characteristic of this showy fowl when in perfect health and 
plumage. Some really good French fowls were also shown. 

SpanisH.—l, F. Brewer, Lostwithiel. 2,S.R. Harris, Cusgarne, St. Day. 

Dorxines.—Coloured.—l and 2, E. Burton, Truro. White—1,T.H. Nicholls, 
Tangier, Lostwithiel. 2, Lady Vivian, Glynn, Bodmin. 

Cocuin-Curwa.—Coloured.—1, J. Beard, St. Blazey, Par Station. 2, S. R. 
Harris. White—1, J. R. Whitehead, Gnaton, Torquay. 2, T. M. Hawke, St. 
Day. he, F. Brewer. 

Game.—Black-breasted and other Reds.—1, S. R. Higham, Morchard Bishop. 
9,3. T. Browne, St. Austell. he, E. C. Pope, Falmouth. Any Colour, E. C. 
Pope. 2, Rev. G.S. Cruwys, Tiverton. 2 

Mrxoroas.—l, S. R. Harris. 2, H. Leworthy, Newport, Barnstaple. hc, Miss 
S. H. Northcote, Upton Pyne; E. Burton. E 

BranMa Poorras.—Dark.—l, E. Burton. 2, W.M. Snow, jun., Exeter. Light. 
—1, C. W. Croft, Tor Hill, Kingskerswell. 2, Withheld. § 

FrENcH (La Fléche, Houdans, or Créve-Cceurs).—l, T. E. Hawken (Créve- 
Cour). 2, G. Slade, Crewkerne (Houdans). he, H. Wyndham, Brockhampton 
(Créve-Ceeur). 2 a 

Hampurecus.—Golden-pencilled.—1, W. Speakman, Nantwich. 2, S.R. Harris. 
Golden-spangled.—1, S. R. Harris. 2, E. Phillimore, Cheltenham. Silver- 
pencilled.1, S. R. Harris. 2, G. Scutt, jun. Martinstown. Silver-spangled.— 
1,8. R. Harris. 2. Miss E. Brown, Chard. 

Poianps.—Black with White Crests.—1, J. Beard. 2,No competition. Gold 
or Silver.—l, J. Beard. 2, W.H. Copplestone, Lostwithiel 

GuInE4 Fowus.—!, Miss S.H. Northcote. 2, C. Bulpin, Bridgwater. 

Bantams.—Gold-laced.—l, Rev. G. F. Hodson, North Petherton. 2, Rev. G. 
S. Cruwys. Svlver-laced.—1, Rev. G. S. Cruwys. 2, C. Bulpin. Game.—l, J. 
Mayo, Gloucester. 2, C. Parsons, Cornhill. he, W. Dale, Weston-super-Mare. 
Any other Variety.—1, J. Mayo (Blacks). 2, Rey. G.S. Cruwys. he, Rey. G.F. 


Hodson. 
SINGLE COCKS. 

SpanisuH.—l, Withheld. 2, F. Seccombe, Totnes. 

Dorxmes.—Coloured—1 and 2, E. Burton. White.—1,F.Seccombe. 2, R.N. 
Thornton, Knowle, Sidmouth. 

Cocuin-Cutna.—l, F. Brewer. 2, J.N. Whitehead, Gnaten, Torquay. 

GamE.—1l, Withheld. 2, J. H. Hart, St. Austell. 

Brauma Pootra.—l, J. H. Nicholls. 2, E, Burton. 

GEESE.—1, W. S. Trevithick, Hayle. 

‘ Duoxs.—Aylesbury.—1, S. R. Harris. 2, T. E. Hawken. Rouen.—1,S. R° 
Higham, Morchard Bishop. 2,E. Burton. Any other Variety—1, G.S. Sains 
bury, Devizes (Black East Indian). 2, Rey. G. S. Cruwys (White Peruvian). 

PIGEONS. 

CarrreRs.—Prize, E. J. Dew, Weston-super-Mare. hc, F. Hayman, Exeter. 

TuMBLERS.—Prize, E. J. Dew. he, F. Beck, Exeter; C. Bulpin, 

Fanraris.—Prize, C.Bulpin. hc, G. H. Gregory, Taunton. 

JacoBins.—Prize, J. & C. Bullen, Newport, Barnstaple. 

Pourers.—Prize, C.Bulpin. he, G. Packham, Whipton. 

Nuxs.—Prize, G. H. Gregory. he, E.J. Dew; C. Bulpin. 

Banrps.—Prize, J. & C. Bullen. he, C.Bulpin. 

TRUMPETERS.—Prize, C. Bulpin. 

ARCHANGELS.—Prize. W. S. Loder, Bath. 

Owxs.—Prize, C. Bulpin. he, J. & C. Bullen. 

Turpits.—Prize, E. J. Dew. he, G. H. Gregory; J. & C. Bullen. ’ 

Draicoons.—Prize, F. Graham, Birkénhead. he, G. Packham; C. Bulpin. 

Any OTHER VARIETY.—Prize, W. S. Loder (Toys). he, Rey. R. Worth, Clyst 
Hydon (Runts); C. Bulpin (Magpies); W.S. Loder (Frillbacks and Toys, 3). 


Mr. Hewitt, of Sparkbrook, Birmingham, and Dr. Scott, of Exeter, 
officiated as Arbitrators. 


BELGIUM PIGEON RACH. 


On Saturday last was to bo witnessed at the Crystal Palace a very 
curious and interesting sight; this was about six hundred true-bred 
Antwerp Pigeons. They had been sent direct from Belgium in large 
hampers securely fastened and then sealed, arriving at the Palace on 
Friday night, to be let loose at noon on the following day, and race 
back again for various prizes. Everyone has heard of the great pains 
taken by the Belgians in training their Pigeons for homing purposes, 
and many of these birds had been previously thrown in different parts 
of the south of England, and even from London, reaching their homes 
safely. ‘The birds were exhibited in sixteen wire pens, each pen con- 


June 29, 1871. ] 


taining about forty birds, and placed on the upper terrace for inspec- 
tion. The numerous and fashionable company was much pleased and 
interested at the novel exhibition. The birdsappeared to have suffered 
but little from their yoyage ; their plumage was clean and bright, and 
they seemed full of life and spirits, anxious to commence their home- 
ward journey. Amongst the whole number we only saw two birds a 
little queer. All the different varieties of the Antwerp were represented, 
but we thought the Blues were the pizk of the lot. We noticed some 
capital broad, nicely-rounded skulled birds, broad in the chest, full 
prominent eye, but little wattle, plenty of life and dash; in fact, 
quite a different kind of bird to what we are in the habit of seeing 
exhibited in England as Antwerps. All had been stamped with a 
private mark to insure its having started in the morning from the 
Palace, and they were well supplied with food and water. The fronts, 
tops, and backs of the pens were moveable, so that on the signal being 
given, the man appointed to each pen pulled these towards him, and 
there was nothing but the two sides left standing, and every bird could 
be liberated at the same moment. : 

Shortly before twelve the sky, which had been very cloudy and 
heavy all the morning, became brighter and clearer, the sun bursting 
forth, and the birds seemed to be making good use of their eyes in 
noting the position of the various hills and places within view. At 
ten minutes to twelve a large bell was rung to clear away the public 
from off that part of the terrace facing the pens. On the words ‘“ Are 
you ready?” being given by the starter, each man prepared to remove 
the fronts and tops of the pens, and on the fall of a red flag the cages 
fell to pieces, and away went the whole lot to a capital start, not one 
left behind. And a very pretty sight it was to see them soaring away 
in a south-easterly direction for home, not so much as taking a round 
ora glance at the transparent Palace, now glittering and sparkling in 
the bright sun. One could not help thinking it was a far pleasanter 
and a more humane sight than seeing princes and noblemen, with 
their ladies admiring them, slaughtering other poor, frightened, harm- 
less Pigeons. At the start one bird immediately singled himself ont 
and darted at once to the front in the direction of his long journey, 
the others following, and when all had reached a great height they 
made a slight curve, then rose to a greater altitude into a white cloud, 
where they could be seen by the aid of a powerful field-glass gradually 
breaking into smaller groups. The whole thing was over and the 
birds out of sight within two minutes of the start, except a solitary 
one or two. This was entirely different to what we had expected to 
see, when we remembered our own boyish attempt to get birds to fly ; 
the amount of whistling, clapping of hands, and stone-throwing that 
was necessary before the bird would leave the roof or chimney-pot of 
a house. We fully expected them tohave taken a round or two before 
finally starting, but nothing of the kind; away they all went imme- 
diately, as though every bird was fully aware of what it was doing, 
and determined if possible to win the race. 


PRODUCTION OF FERTILE WORKERS—QUEEN 
PIPING. 


A rew days ago James Bower, Esq., of Knowle Lodge, asked 
me to look over a stock of bees purchased by him this spring, 
and which he had since driven from their straw hives, and 
placed with four of their own brood combs (worker) in a wooden 
bar-and-frame hive. Afterwards, as I understood, he opened 
the hive and found it without a queen, but with one or more 
queen cells tenanted; these he cut away, and gave the bees a 
Ligurian queen, which they, I think, must have killed, though 
Bhs had been put under a wire cage according to the approved 
plan. 

I found the hive contained very few working bees, and nearly 
as many small drones with drone brood in all stages and eggs, 
of course, in the old worker combs, no new comb having been 
made. But no queen was there, and to make quite sure of her 
majesty’s absence, after looking very carefully over the combs 
three times, I lifted them out and placed them on the ground, 
two other persons scrutinising them both on taking them 
out and returning them, and also in the meantime looking 
amongst the bees left in the hive. 

Do you think the bees, after their queen-cells were cut away 
and the Ligurian queen destroyed, tried to rear a queen from 
their too-mature brood, and so only succeeded in producing a 
fertile worker? Or in what way do you account for the drone 
brood and eggs in the hive when minus a queen ? 

IT had four natural swarms from my one pure Ligurian stock, 
respectively—on the 17th, 24th, 26th, and 29th of last month. 
After a hive has thrown a first swarm, and the young queens 
are heard ‘‘ piping,” are they at liberty, or do they only con- 
ape ne noise while confined in their cells ?—J., BRIERLEY, 

NOw le. 


[There is little doubt that the hive has one or more fertile 
workers, but we should not like to pronounce a decided opinion 
as to the exact causes which led to their being produced. 
When “piping” is heard after the issue of the first swarm, i 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


467 


may proceed from the eldest princess at liberty, or from those 
still confined in their cells. Some people profess to be able 
to distinguish these by the varying notes. A day or two ago 
on examining @ small artificial swarm to which a royal cell 
had been given, we found the queen at liberty, and on return- 
ing the comb to the hive she commenced piping very loudly. 
There was no other royal cell in the hive. ] 


QUEENS LEAVING THEIR HIVES. 


A curtous thing happened in my apiary the other day which 
may be worth recording. I had made an artificial swarm out 
of an Italian hive by driving, putting the swarm, as I always 
do, in the old stock’s place. The stock itself, full of brood but 
empty of bees, was the next day put in place of a strong hybrid 
Italian hive, which I removed some 40 yards off. To my great 
astonishment on the third day (May 24th), a fine swarm issued 
from the Italian stock, which should have been queenless. 
No doubt the queen must have taken an airing and returned to 
her old stance. The hive itself which she quitted, subse- 
quently (on the 7th of June), threw off a swarm, and the Italian 
stock did the game again on the 8th. This instance will go to 
prove what has been doubted by some, whether queens ever 
leave their hive when once they have become mothers. This 
queen must have been out on the wing more than once this 
spring, to have found her way so easily back again. She had 
never led off a swarm, having been artificially reared only the 
summer before.—B. & W. 


HINGES TO BAR-AND-FRAME HIVES. 


You are mistaken in thinking that the ‘‘bar-and-frame hive ’” 
which I gave to the Apiarian Society was hinged. These ‘ tri- 
angular bar-frames” were so arranged on the sides of the en- 
closing ‘outer box,’’ as to have an iron rod run through the 
whole of the eight. frames. Upon this rod the frames were 
adjusted and worked sideways, when space to lift a comb for 
examination was required. The rod only formed the pivot 
which, so long as each frame was raised in succession on it, 
kept all the other frames steady; but this rod was always 
drawn out for the removal of the combs for separate experi- 
ments, or the extraction of honey. This was one of the at- 
tempts to cheapen the ‘‘ bar-frame hive’’ for the bee-masters. 
My first frames were made to fit into grooves, taking as # 
guide the adjusted spaces of 13-inch bars, and half-inch spaces 
which had been introduced by Mr. R. Golding ag the improved 
fixed bars or rods of the Grecian hive; but no notches or 
hinges are admissible in the moveable ‘‘ bar-and-frame hives,” 
as the bees will not always keep to the calculated spaces for 
the combs. The power of moving the frames and combs 
laterally must be secured, or the hive is useless for exami- 
nation. The triangular hive, therefore, never was hinged !— 
W. A. Monn. 


BEE-KEEPING FOR COTTAGERS. 


I coup not help writing just a line in reply to your corre- 
spondent ‘ W. J., Shepherdswell,” at page 431, who says, ‘I 
have always looked upon the practice (the use of brimstone 
torches), with considerable qualms of conscience ; in fact, with 
a similar feeling to that experienced when seeing an anima? 
slaughtered for food.’’ Mr. Pettigrew takes a similar view, but 
at present I cannot see the force of the argument, for we do 
not kill bees to eat them, but to possess ourselves of their pro- 
ductions, and I maintain with the late Thomas Nutt, that it is 
quite as absurd to kill bees for their honey as it is to cut 
down a beautiful young tree in order to gather its fruit. And, 
again, Wildman says, ‘‘ If we were to kill the hen for the egg, 
the sheep for its fleece, or the cow for her milk, everyone would 
instantly see our impropriety, and yet this is practised every 
year by our impolitic slaughter of tho bees.’? Iam heartily 
glad that the Rey. William Charles Cotton has come to the 
rescue, and I am anxiously looking for his promised communi- 
cation on this subject, and I think he will bear me out, that 
until we eat the bees after killing them, the ‘‘ animal slaughtered 
for food”’ is not a parallel case, and I still think that the 
sooner we discontinue the killing the goose for the golden egg 
the better for cottagers everywhere, including —SHEPHERDSWELL, 


Eccrusuitt SHow.—The Committee are most anxious to 
make it an important one both for poultry and Pigeons, and if 
it receive support we can predict for it a future second to that 


468 


JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 


[ June 29, 1871. 


of none of the Yorkshire summer shows. There are three 
prizes in each class for poultry, with a cup each for the Game, 
the other large fowls, and the Bantam division. The prizes in 
the Pigeon classes are £1 and 10s., with two silver eups; and 
the much-desired separation of cocks and hens in the Carrier 
and Pouter classes is a feature, as is also a separate class for 
working Antwerps. 


Fasnion 1N Foop.—Many a man will naturally and surely 
say, ‘lam carefal; I have not yet wasted, and therefore can- 
not save bread or meat.’ Still he may find ont the way of 
contributing to the result. At the present time our whole 
people are eating wheaten bread, and therefore the great bur- 
den of food falls on wheat. If wheat is scarce, it becomes 
dear, because no substitutes are consumed. Here comes a 
case :—Maize is an article of food, used by others, which we do 
not use; yet our brethren in New England are fond of it, and 
they have the choice of wheat. It is from the want of habit 
and practice of using maize that the population do not resort 
to it; but if maize were brought sometimes into the variety of 
a well-to-do house, servants would learn how to deal with it, 
and they would use it in other houses and in their own when 
they marry.—(Food Journal.) 


OUR LETTER BOX. 


Mr. JAcKSON writes to us as follows:—‘ Mr. Hall, of Chelmsford, who 
complains in your last week’s Journal of having sent me stamps for half 
a dozen Spanish eggs, and that I have ‘ neither sent the eggs nor replied 
to his letter,’ had the eggs sent from here on the 30th of May; and my 
letter advising him of their being forwarded has been returned through 
the post office marked ‘No address.’ Some people have an idea that 
however an ambiguous address they may attach to their communications, 
that the post-office authorities and railway companies are sure to find 
them, Mr. Hall among the number, as the only information of his where- 
abouts that he gave me was ‘E. Hall, Chelmsford.’ 
future to name his residence as well as the town he belongs to. 


no doubt he will find his eggs at the railway station. W. Jackson, Blake- 
down, Kidderminster.” 


ONE-EYED Cock (H. F. D. T.).—The cock is certainly not disqualified | 


by the accidental loss of an eye. Itisa disadvantage; and ifthere were 


difficulty in deciding between two birds, the bird that had lost an eye | 


would “ kick the beam.” 

DETECTING THE GANDER (Goose).—The sex can be accurately told only 
by very close examination and handling; it is then easy, and reveals 
itself on being subject to pressure. 

Locust Brean Mga (Regular Subscriber).—We do not know the meal, 
but we are sure that any addition is not necessary to ground oats. We 
believe they contain all that is requisite for the well-being of poultry. 
Barley, and still more pea or bean meal, have a tendency to harden both 
fiesh and plumage. We not only do not recommend them under ordinary 
circumstances, but we believe many complaints and much disappoint- 
ment arise from the unnatural, and, above all, the stimulating food with 
which fowls are fed. 

Strrr Featuers (R. 4. W.).—The stiff feathers in the vulture hock are 
well quilled, firm, and quite straight. They do not curve like the wing 
feathers. They project from the lower part of the thigh just above the 
knee 1} inch, sometimes 2 inches, inclining downwards and outwards. 

SEA SAND AND Fow ts’ Leas (Idem).—We cannot answer your second 
question. We have never kept fowls on the seashore. The salt water 
may have effect in the same manner that in some places the effect of the 
water is to change the colour of Ducks’ bills. 


WEIGHT oF CocKEREL (Idem).—You should have told us the breed of 
the cockerel, it would have enabled us to give a more correct opinion. 
Let it be as it may, it is a great weight—almost too heavy. It will be 
necessary to feed very well, otherwise his legs will give way. Give him 
ground oats slaked with milk; let him have access to plenty of brick- 
layers’ rubbish, cooked meat chopped fine, and at times bread and milk. 
Ii will be for you to say whether he is worth this outlay and trouble. If 
he be of pure breed, and free from fault of shape or feather, his size 
makes him valuable. If he fail in any of these particulars we advise you 
to eat him. Ho will never be better. 

RomrorD SHow.—Mr. Easten, of Hull, informs us that he was awarded 
the first prize for Lop-eared Rabbits, and not Mr. Harvey. Mr. H. Ling- 
wood was awarded the first prize for Dark Brahmas; Mr. H. Partlett the 
first for Rouen Ducks; and Mr. J. Ford for Tumblers. 

Srroup Pountry SnHow.—Mr. E. J. Drew was the winner of the 
second prize for Almond Tumblers. 

BetFrast SHow (M.).—Thanks for the prize list, but we always con 
e‘ude that if a committee do not think a show worth advertising, that it 
is not worth reporting. 

CLEANSING PoULTRY-HOUSE FLOOR (The Vale\.—We conclude that your 
flooris of bricks or other hard substance. Cover it 3 inches deep with 
Sand, and merely rake off the droppings in the morning. A layer of 
earth alternating with a layer of the droppings is a good way of accumu- 
lating a manure for your garden. 

BarBs Not BREEDING, &o. (R. D.).—It has been a common occurrence 
with fancy birds this season, for which the seyere cold of the winter and 
spring must be blamed. Our own hayes been equally unfortunate. 
Tumblers of the larger and commoner sort breed very freely, also 
Dragoons. 

CoMMENCING PIGEON-KEEPING (G. H. B. C.).—Flying Tumblers are good 
birds to begin with, being perfectly hardy, good breeders, and anybody 
can manage them, as they give no trouble. Baldheads would suit you, 
or see answer above. Certainly so very far north as you live, the Pigeon- 
left should not on any account face due north. 

Siu For Fowts (7. E. W.).—Salt is not necessary, but a piece can do 
no harm. 

ARE THE QUEEN’s EGGS ALL OF ONE SExX.—In answer to Mr. Petti- 


I advise him in | 
I have 


grew’s query, ‘B. & W.” would feel satisfied with such an experiment ag 
that detailed by Mr. Pettigrew, if on repetition it were demonstrated as a 
fact. But nothing can be proved beyond doubt by an isolated experi- 
ment, because queens which lay drone eggs (as I believe), or eggs which 
turn out drones in worker cells, may also lay worker eggs in drone cells. 
Why not? “B.& W.” once felt sanguine in the same way as Mr. Petti- 
grew now does, but nothing came of the drone—royal cells. Therefore, 
he would remain sceptical even if one queen were to issue from the 
“seven cells which the bees have sealed up.” Sceptical he would still 
remain, though less s0,if more than one queen were hatched. The ex- 
periment must be repeated and proved again and again ere the matter 
could be beyond doubt. Very sorry ‘ B. & W.” is to miss the lucid and 
judicious pen of Mr. Woodbury, in common with every other reader of 
THE JoURNAL OF HoRTICULTURE, who is interested in bees. May he 
soon recover his wonted health. 


Pot-Pourri (Bristol).—Gather the petals of the most fragrant kinds of 
Roses, with which other flowers may be mixed with pleasure in smaller 
proportion; spread them out to dry in the sun, or in a warm room; 
sprinkle a littie salt on them, and put them in a jar, in which they are to 
be kept covered up till wanted for use. Take of these rose leaves 4 ozs.; 
dried lavender flowers, 8 ozs.; vanilla, cloves, storax, and benzoin, all 
bruised, of each 1 drachm; ambergris, 20 grains; otter of roses, 20 drops. 
Mix. 


METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 


CAMDEN SquaRH, LonpoNn. 
Lat. 51° 32’ 40’ N.; Long. 0° 8’ 0” W.; Altitude 111 feet. 


Date. Ix THE Day. 
4a Shade 'Tem.| Radiation 
1s7l. | 3° Direc- | Temp. a) Tempera- 
j Bs tion ofjof Soil perature ture. 
June. | 3. Wind. | at 1 ft. In | On 
as sun. | grass 
Inches. deg. | deg. deg. | deg.| In. 
We. 21 | 29.832 INS 58.3 69.8 | 50.8 /115.0 | 50.8 | 0.040 
Th. 22 | 29.941 | 53 N.E. 58.3 60.0 | 51.0 | 79.1 | 52.7 | 0.640 
Fri. 23 | 29.844 | 59.9 N. 67.2 65.2 | 51.1 |120.2 | 53.4 _— 
Sat. 24 | 30.069 | 55.4 | 51.9 N. 57.3 65.8 | 481 |111.0 | 49.3 _ 
Sun.25 | 30.159 | 56.0 } 50.5 ING 56.0 62.5 | 41.3 |116.8 | 42.5 _ 
Mo. 26 | 80.277 | 55.9 | 51.3 N.E, 55.4 64.6 | 41.0 |121.5 | 40.4 = 
Tu. 27 | 80.088 | 60.3 | 55.5 | S.W. 55.6 70.4 | 40.2 |1191 | 42.8 | 0.030 
| paste ae 
Means | 30.080 | 57.2 | 58.5 56.9 65.5 | 462 |111.8 | 47.4 | 0.710 
REMARKS. 


21st.—Rather dull in morning, sunshine at noon, very heavy rain and 
thunder from 4 to 4.15 p.at., fair weather afterwards. 

22nd.—Moderately fine till 5 p.nt., then very wet all the evening. 

23rd.—Dull morning, clearing-up towards noon, and continuing so till 
6 p.m, when there was a very slight shower of very fine rain. 

24th.—Fair all day with occasional sunshine, but very cold. 

25th.—Fine day and beautiful night, but still cold. 

26th.—Very fine, but still very cold for the time of the year. 

27th.—Rather dull in morning but splendid day, and rather warmer than 
any day during the past week. 

With a return of northerly winds, this week has been cooler than the 
last, and drier, except on Thursday, when there was heavyrain. Owing 
to cloudy nights diminishing radiation, and the warmth of the earth 
(57° at 1 foot), we have the singular fact that the weekly mean of the 
minimum thermometer on the grass is greater than that of the air 4 feet 
above it.—G. J. Symons. 


COVENT GARDEN MARKET.—Jongs 28. 


Busrness is rather better again this week, but the supplies of ont-door 
produce have not much improved, first-rate descriptions of both English 
and foreign fruit and vegetables being comparatively scarce. Cherries 
and Currants have suffered much from the late heavy rains, and from 
the general accounts we have received do not promise well as to bulk. 
Potatoes of both kinds, Kidneys and Rounds, are plentifal, from 4s. to 
12s. per cwt. 


FRUIT. 

ChOG oth th 8. a4. s. d 

Apples...sseseeeee$ Sleve 1 6 tod 0 .1b. 0 Oto0 O 
Apricots .. «doz 2.0 $ 0 doz.10 0 20 0 
Cherries.. Bs oP} (1) #100 6 0 10 0 
Chestnuts. 00 0G doz.12 0 24 0 
Currants.. 50 00 00) 50 0 
Black 90 00 00 00 
Figs .... 40 8 0 5 0 8 0 
Filberts 00 20 00 00 
Cobs.... IMO} Ar 1G aeOM0 7070 
Gooseberries ... 06 08 = OR Gam Lea 
Grapes, Hothous. 80 80 - 06 80 
Lemons... 6 0 10 0 10 0 160 
Melons.... 836 60 2 DS Raine 

VEGETABLES. 

8.d. 8. d s.d. 8. @ 

Artichokes ..-......doz. 4 Oto 6 0} Leeks bunch 0 4to0 6 
Asparagus ... 4 0 § 0} Lettuce doz. 0 8 10 
Beans, Kidney 16 2 6] Mushrooms. pottla 1 0 2 6 
Broad. 0 0 O 0} Mustard & Cr unnet 0 2 O00 
Beet, Red. 2 0 8 0} Onions .. ushel 5 6 8 0 
Broccoli . oo 00 picklin quart 0 0 00 
0 0 O 0} Parsley sieve 8 0 6 0 

» 1 0 2 O} Parsnip: doze 09 10 

0 0 O 0} Peas... quart 0 6 10 

0 6 1 0} Potatoes. ushel 8 0 6 0 

40 80 Kidne: .do $0 80 

16 2 0} Radishes unches 0 6 1 0 

8 0 6 O| Rhubarb. bundle 0 4 O 6 

0 6 1 0} Savoys. .doz. 00 0 6 

0 0 O 0| Seakale. osket 0 0 0 0 

2 0 O 0} Shallots eeeip, 0 6 O 9 

0 8 © o| Spinach. -bushel 2 6 00 

0 8 O 0} Tomatoes. »-- doz 20 8 0 

0 8 0 O0O| Turnips ..........bunch 0 9 10 

8 0 6 0! VegetableMarrows..doz. 0 0 0 O. 
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