Victoria College Library
“yy
EGERTON RYERSON YOUNG
COLERGHION
Presented to
THE LIBRARY, VICTORIA COLLEGE
By
Mrs. YOUNG AND FAMILY
Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2007 with funding from
Microsoft Corporation
http:/www.archive.org/details/americanflowerga0Onewyuoft
AMERICAN Loa |
eg
FLOWER-GARDEN DIRECTORY: —
PRACTICAL DIRECTIONS FOR THE CULTURE OF PLANTS, *
IN
THE FLOWER-GARDEN, HOT-HOUSE, GREEN-HOUSE,
ROOMS, OR PARLOUR WINDOWS,
FOR EVERY MONTH IN THE YEAR.
WITH
A DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANTS MOST DESIRABLE IN EACH, THE NATURE OF
THE SOIL AND SITUATION BEST ADAPTED TO TSEIR GROWTH, THE
PROPER SEASON FOR TRANSPLANTING, ETC.
WITH INSTRUCTIONS FOR ERECTING
A Hot-House, Green-House, and Raping ow
X Flower-Garden.
THE WHOLE
ADAPTED TO EITHER LARGE OR SMALL GARDENS
WITH INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING THE SOIL, PROPAGATING,
PLANTING, PRUNING, TRAINING, AND FRUITING
THE GRAPE VINE,
WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF THE BEST SORTS FOR CULTIVATING
IN THE OPEN AIR.
BY ROBERT BUIST,
NURSERYMAN AND SEED-GROWER.
New Edition, with Numerous Additions.
NEW-YORK:
ORANGE JUDD & C'O MPANY
AGRICULTURAL BOOK PUBLISHERS.
245 BROADWAY.
en ARy
Cel
Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1854, hv
C. M. SAXTON,
{n the Cierk’s Office of the District Court of the United States, in aud fos
the Southern District of New York.
Do a ©
§/7 19/0
INTRODUCTION.
WE are again called upon to present to the public the 6th
edition of this popular work on the Culture of Flowers—a
taste that :s now widely disseminating itself; in fact, a know-
ledge of which is requisite before a refined education is com-
pleted. We boldly and fearlessly say that no country has
made such rapid advancement in the art and science of Horti-
eulture in so short a period as the United States. Wherever
the taste prevails, it diffuses a peace and harmony among its
participants without either symbol’ or mystery. In this
edition, a feast of new materials has been served up; entire
lists have been cancelled and replaced with those of newer
and finer forms and habits; extraneous matter and plants of
indifferent character are dropped. The great and successful
adaptation of Hot water to Horticultural purposes is explicitly
described, and to those who wish to examine the results, we
say “Come and see.” . ° e
Myrtles and oleanders, : : . . .
Geraniums, . - 5 5 ° . .
Flowering plants, : . . : .
Insects, 2 5 : 5 5 5
Flowering stocks,
MAY.
Watering,
Of bringing out the green- -house plants, .
Repotting plants, : . . . .
Camellias, . : : : 5 <
Cape bulbs, 5 0 . . . ° .
JUNE AND JULY.
General observations, . - : : 5 ‘
AUGUST.
Geraniums, :
Oranges and lemons, . .
Pruning oranges and lemons, = A 5 3
Repotting plants, > 5 . ° . 0
General observations, . D . ° f c
SEPTEMBER.
Of watering, . : .
Preparing for taking in ‘the plants, : 5 .
Stocks and wall-flowers, - A 5 S S
Chrysanthemums, . : c ° é -
Cape and Holland bulbs, . . ° : °
OCTOBER.
Of taking in and Serene ne | the. plants, ° . .
Of repotting, 5 o ° 6 :
Camellias, 2 5 5 F 2 : n
Sowing camellia seed, : : : ° .
NOVEMBER.
Of air and water, 4 5 : 5 i
Of tender bulbs, . . : ° °
General observations s f 3
271
ho-bo to-bo bo
So ites ites? fits lite? |
1 C1 He Co bo
CONTENTS.
DECEMBER.
Bulbous roots, . ; c ; :
ROOMS.
TREATMENT OF PLANTS IN ROOMS, . .
JANUARY.
Watering, ° . ° :
Of camellia japonica, : ° . °
Of insects, &c., : c :
Of bulbous roots in general, ° ° °
FEBRUARY.
General observations, . 5 5 :
MARCH.
Flowering plants, 5 . : ,
APRIL.
Directions for plants brought from the green-house,
Flowering plants, . .
Bringing “plants out of the cellar, C . .
MAY.
Cape bulbs, 5 : : 2
Repotting, . . . . . .
JUNE AND JULY.
General observations, . é 5 C
AUGUST.
General observations, . i : :
SEPTEMBER.
General observations, 5 5 :
OCTOBER.
Of bulbous roots, 5 é : 5
General observations, C A ° 5
x4
PAGH
288
296
297
298
298
300
309
800
801
303
304
XVI CONTENTS.
NOVEMBER.
General observations, . : 5 ; 5 .
DECEMBER.
Roses, . ‘ 5 : c .
Camellias, . c 3 : .
CULTURE OF THE GRAPE VINE.
Aspect, : . 5 . : . .
On soil, 5 : ° . :
On the propagation of vines,
On erections for the suEport and | protection of the vines in out-
door culture, . c : : :
Of transplanting the vine, c 5 A .
On pruning, E 2 5 5 5 : 4
On manure,
Descriptive catalogue of grapes most suitable for open air “eul-
ture, 0 , . ° . . .
LISTS.
Hardy evergreens, . ‘ : ‘
deciduous trees ond shraba, : c
Table of soils, . ; ane A A - ‘
PAGE
304
805
306
827
Bee
824
THE
AMYRICAN FLOWER-GARDEN
DIRECTORY.
UN LAYING OUT A FLOWER-GARDEN.
‘frm Klower-Garden is chiefly devoted to the cultivation of
enowy towering plants, shrubs, and trees, either natives of
nis country or those of a foreign clime ; it is a refined ap-
pendage to a country seat, “suburban” villa, or city resi-
dence ; every age has had its principles of taste, and every
country its svstem of gardening. Our limits do not permit
us to enter nunutely into the details of any of these sys-
tems ; but a few mts may not be out of place to those whose
design is the laying out or improvement of the garden.
The Italian style 1s characterized by broad terraces and pa-
ralled walks, having the delightful shade and agreeable fra-
grance of the orange aud the myrtle. Terraces may be a/-
vantageously adopted to surmount steep declivities ; and, if
judiciously laid out, would convert a sterile bank into a
beautiful promenade, or choice flower-garden.
The French partially adopt the above system, interspers-
ing it with parterres and figures of statuary work of every
character and description. When such is well designed and
neatly executed, it has a lively and interesting effect; but
now the refined taste says these vagaries are too fantastic,
and entirely out of place. A late writer says of Dutch gar-
dening, that it “is rectangular formality :’ they take great
pride in trimming their trees of yew, holly, and ae ever
* (17
is ON LAYING OUT A FLOWER-GALDEN.
greens, into every variety of form, such as mops, moons, hal
berds, chairs, &e. In such a system it is indispensable ta
order that the compartments correspond in formality, nothing
being more offensive to the eye than incongruous mixtures
of character.
The beauty of English gardening consists in an artful
imitation of nature, and is consequently much dependent on
aspect and locality. It is a desideratum, where wood and
water can be combined with the flower-garden, and the prac-
tical eye can dispose of an object to advantage by interspers-
ing shrubbery and walks, that the combined cbjects form au
agreeable whole. They are not to be disposed with a view
to their appearance in a picture, but to the use and enjoy:
ment of them in real life.
We will now endeavour to give an explicit exposition of a
system adapted to our variable climate of extreme heat and
excessive cold. Where choice of aspects can be obtained,
preference should be given to a south-east or east; but if
not, south or south-west, and, if possible, sheltered by ris-
ing ground or full-grown woods from the north-west and
north. But to lay down directions for a flower-garden is not
a little difficult, seeing that there cannot be any given area
or any description of local cireumstances applicable to all
situations. A good soil is the sure foundation on which to
rear the grand floral superstructure, and the most genial is a
sandy loam: I mean by sandy loam a soil which contains
from one-sixth to one-tenth of sand; and if ona gravelly or
sandy bottom, so much the better. Where the general sur-
face is gently undulating, it will greatly add to the beauty of
arrangement ; if access to a spring can be obtained, it will
prove a desideratum in completing the whole: it can pe
available for a fish-pond or an aquarium, or can be convert-
ed into a swamp for the cultivation of many of our most
beautiful and interesting native plants, such as Habanaria,
Lilium, Sarracenia, Dionea, &c., and on the margin of which
(Gf partially shaded) can be planted the beautiful varieties of
Azaleas, and the splendid flowering Rhododendron, which
by the by, are almost entirely neglected in all our floral deco
rations. With many, the arrangement of a flower-garder
is rather a matter for the exercise of fancy, than one calling
for the application of refined taste: true, it may be saiu
there is no mathematical law to guide the designer, so tt a
ON LAYING OUT A FLOWER-GARDEN. 19
if he avoid incongruity of arrangement the end is accom.
plished. But, in commencing these operations, a design
should be kept in view that will tend to expand, improve,
and beautify the situation ; not, as we too frequently sce it,
the parterre and borders with narrow walks up to the very
household entrance: such is decidedly bad taste, unless com-
pelled for want of room. For perspicuity, admit that the
area to be enclosed should be from one to three acres, a cir-
cumambient walk should be traced at some distance within
the fence, by which the whole is enclosed ; the inferior walks
should partly circumscribe and intersect the general surface
in.an easy, serpentine, and sweeping manner, and at such
distances as would allow an agreeable view of the flowers
when walking for exercise. Walks may be in breadth from
three to twenty feet, although from four to ten feet is gene-
rally adopted; and, to have these dry and permanent, those
that are to be much used should have six to eight inches of
the bottom soil dug out in a concave manner, and in the
centre of the concave dig out a trench of about nine inches
square, to form a drain, which may be made with brick or
filled with rough stone, and the concave may be filled with
refuse of buildings or broken stone within three inches of
the desired height, which should be covered with gravel, and
then firmly rolled with a heavy roller. Where the gravel
cannot be obtained, sand may be used, mixed with a few
small stones to bind it, but such needs very repeated rolling.
Walks, such as described, when completely finished, will last
for ages; but many will not be disposed to go to such ex-
pense ; to those we say use tanner’s bark, which is very
cheap, and accessible to all. The outer margin of the gar-
den should be planted with the largest trees and shrubs; the
interior arrangement may be in detached groups of shrub-
bery and parterres. In order that the whole should not
partake of a uniform and graduated character, it should be
broken and diversified by single trees planted in the turf, or
arising in scattered groups from a base of shrubs. In some
secluded spot, rock-work or a fountain, or both, may be
erected ; the foundation of the former should consist of
mounds of earth, which will answer the purpose of more
solid erections, and will make the stones go farther: rocks
of the same kind and colour should be placed together, and
the greatest possible variety of character, size, and form
29 ON LAYING OUT A FLOWER-GARDEN
should be studied, the whole showing an evident and well
defined connexion. ‘These erections generally are stiff, arti-
ficial, disjointed masses, and often decorated with plants
having no affinity to their arid location. The undertaking,
when well completed, will present a field of varied and iw-
teresting study, and more than compensate for the labour
and expense bestowed upon it. If it is desired that the flower-
garden should be a botanical study, there should be some
botanical arrangement adopted.
The Linnean system is the most easily acquired. A
small compartment, laid out in beds, might contain plants of
ari the twenty-four classes, and a few of all the hardy orders,
which do not exceed one hundred. Or, to have their natu-
rai characters more assimilated, the Juss/ewean system could
pe carried into effect by laying down a grass-plat to any
extent above one quarter of an acre, and cut therein small
ugures to contain the natural families, which, of hardy plants,
we do not suppose would exceed one hundred and fifty. The
difficulties of this arrangement are, that many of the cha-
racters are imperfectly known, even to the most. scientific.
(Sce Professor Lindley’s Introduction to Botany.) All the
large divisions should be intersected by small alleys, or paths,
about one and a half or two feet wide. When there is not’
a green-house attached to the flower-garden, there should be,
at least, a few sashes of framing, or a forcing pit, to bring
forward early annuals, &c., for early blooming. These
should be situate in some spot detached from the garden by
a fence of Roses, trained to trellises. Chinese Arbor vite,
Privet, or even Maclura, make excellent fences, and, when
properly trimmed, are very ornamental: they require to be
neatly and carefully clipped with shears every September.
In the Southern States, Noisette, Bourbon, and China Roses,
with a profusion of Sweetbriar, would make the most beauti-
ful of all fences, and could be very easily obtained : a fence
three hundred feet long would only cost abot one hundred
and twenty dollars. Frames for forcing should be made of
plank two inches thick, and well put together; the sash
should be from five to seven feet long, and from three to four
feet wide, and filled with six by eight glass. In the framing-
ground should be kept the various soils required for plants,
and also variou. characters of manure at all times ready
far use, the whole in regular heaps, and kept free from
t
Jan. | OF FRAMING, ETC. 2
weeds.-—Haviuy given these brief outlines of a flower-garden,
we now proceed to give monthly directions for planting ant.
keeping the same in order.
JANUARY.
Ir the covering of the beds of choice bulbs, herbaceous
plants, or tender shrubs, has been neglected last month, let
it be done forthwith. The season is now precarious, and
delays are dangerous. For particular directions, see Decem-
ber. Any bulbous roots that have been kept out of the
ground, should be planted immediately, according to direc-
tions in October. Some writers have recommended keeping
some of the bulbs until this month, in order to have a con-
tinued succession. Experience will prove the inefficiency of
the plan, and will satisfactorily show that the difference is
almost imperceptible, while the flowers are very inferior,
and much degenerated ; and, in place of having “a long-con-
tinued succession of bloom,” there appear, along with your
finest specimens, very imperfect flowers, caleulated to discou-
rage the admirers of these “ gaudy” decoratives of our flower-
gardens. Whereas, every art employed should be to the
advancement and perfection of nature.
OF FRAMING, ETC.
The plants and roots that are in frames should be protect
ed with straw, mats, and boards, and the frame surroundec
with litter, or leaves, or, what is more advisable, banked
with turf—the former being a harbour for mice and other
vermin. For full directions, see December. Under this
head, the plants, such as Auriculas, Polyanthus, Daisies,
Carnations, Pinks, Pentstemons, Campanula pyramidalis,
Double rocket, Double stock, or Stockgillys, Double Wall-
flower, Anemone, Ranunculus, &e., as previously enumerated
as frame plants, will require very little water, and be sura
to give none while they are in a frozen state. If snow
9%
22 OF PRUNING. [Jan
should cover them, the plants will keep in a fine state under
it; so never remove snow from covering cold frames, even
suppose it should lie for weeks—nature will operate here
herself. But when framing cannot be obtained, they will,
in this latitude, keep tolerably, if gently covered with leaves
or litter, using means to secure them from being blown over
the garden.
OF PRUNING.
It is not advisable to carry on a general system of pruning
mm this month, in whatever state the weather may be. The
severest frosts, generally, are yet to come, and too frequently
what is done now in this operation has to be repeated in the
spring, causing, at that time, work to a disadvantage ;
because, if pruning, when done just now, is accomplished
judiciously, whatever more is requisite to be done in the
spring on the same bush will be injudicious. Hence, it is
far preferable to delay it till the frost is nearly over, when
all can be done to advantage. There are, undoubtedly, hardy
trees and some shrubs, that may be pruned and thinned out
at any time from the first of November to the first of March:
such as Crataegus, Sorbus, Spirea, and even Althea, in the
Middle States; (the Double white Althea is very tender,
and requires to be covered.) The tying together the loose
branches of Juniper, Cedar, and Arbor vite should be
particularly attended to, as heavy snow frequently destroys
the shape of those handsome shrubs by breaking down the
branches, &c.—When the snow is heavy, the precaution of
shaking it off should be resorted to. In many seasons, the
beginning of this month is open, and admits of the operation
of digging in open quarters, which if not done, as advised
last month, ought not to be delayed. The fruits of it will
appear in the mellowed state of your soil in spring.
If there is any spare time, tallies, straight sticks, or stakes,
may be prepared for summer use. Tie them up in neat
bundles, which will be of great service during the hurried
period of the year. An opportunity of this kind should
always be laid hold of ; the beneficial results will, in season,
be displayed.
Feb } OF PRONING, EY. 23
FEBRUARY.
WHEN the borders and various compartments were dug in
the autumn, and compost, or a thin coating of well-decom
posed manure given, the advantage will now, in part, be ex
perienced. If the weather is open about the end of the
month, the pruning should be done with the utmost des.
patch, that all may be prepared for a general dressing next
month, and let nothing be delayed which can now properly
be accomplished, under the idea that there is time enough.
OF PRUNING, ETC.
Generally, about the end of the month, the very severe
frosts are over, and when none need be apprehended that
would materially injure hardy shrubs, they may be freely
pruned, and the points cut of such shoots as may have been
damaged by the winter. Most of shrubs require nothing
more than to be thinned of straggling, irregular, and injured
branches, or of suckers, that rise round the root, observing
that they do not intermingle with each other. Never trim
them up in a formal manner; regular shearing of shrubs,
and topiary work, have been expelled as unworthy a taste
the least improved by reflections on beauty, simplicity, and
grandeur of nature.
In fact, the pruning of deciduous, hardy shrubs should be
done in such a manner as not to be observable when the
plants are covered with verdure. It may frequently be ob-
served in flower-gardens, that roses and shrubs of every de-
scription are indiscriminately cut with the shears, the Amdr-
phas, Viburnums, and Althéas sharing the same fate.
Robinias, Coliteas, Cytisus, Rhis, Gentstas, with several
of the Viburnums, and many others, bear their flowers on
the wood of last year, and, when thus sheared, afford no
gratification in flowering. And those shrubs that thus flower
on the shoots of last year are perhaps worse to keep in regu-
lar order than those to which the knife can be freely applied ;
but good management, while young, will insure handsome,
free, flowering plauts.
24 OF PRUNING, ETC. [ feb
Climbing shrubs, and others that are trained against out-
buildings, walls, or such as are sheltered thereby, and not
now in danger of suffering by frost, may be pruned and
dressed. These should be neatly trimmed, and the branches
moderately thinned out, tying in all the shoots straight and
regular. Avoid, at all times, the crossing of any shoots.
There is not a shrub in the garden that agrees so well
with close-cutting as the A/théa, and all its varieties. These
can be made either bushes or trees, and kept at any desired
height. Where the wood of last year is cut to about two or
three inches from the wood of the former year, the young
shoots of the coming season will produce the largest and
fincst flowers, and likewise more profusely. When they have
attained the desired height, let them be kept in the most
natural and handsome shape that the taste of the operator
can suggest. ‘I'hey will bear cutting to any degree.
Honeysuckles, of every description, may, with all free-
dom, be trimmed, providing the frost is not very severe.
These are very frequently allowed to become too crowded
with wood, and then superficially sheared or cut. The flowers
would be much finer, and the bush handsomer, if they
were regularly thinned out, divesting them of all naked and
superfluous shoots. Of those that remain, shorten the shoots
of last year. Where any of the honeysuckle kind has be-
come naked at the bottom, and flowering only at the top of
the trellis, or extremities of the shoots, one-half of the bush
should be cut to within four inches of the ground. It will
throw out plenty of fine, young wood, which give room for,
and train them straight, and to the full extent, during sum
mer. These shoots will flower protusely the following sea
son, and in like manner, when thought proper, the other
half can be cut.
Roses of the hardy kinds (termed garden roses) that were
not attended to in November, should, if the weather permit,
be dressed and pruned forthwith. In small gardens, where
these are generally attached to the walls and fences, neatness
should be a very particular object. If any of such bushes
have got strong and irregular, the most proper method to
bring them to order will be to cut down each alternate shoot
of the bush to within a few inches of the surface, thereby
renovating it, and, in part, preserving the flowers. Those
that are cut down will put out several luxuriant shoots
Feb. | OF PLANTING SHRUBS, ETC. 25
which must be regularly tacked in, spreading them in a fan
shape. These, in another year, will flower well, when the
others may go through the same operation. Thus, in two or
three years, the bushes will have resumed a different and
more agreeable aspect. By the above treatment, these oraa-
ments of the garden will always have a neat and healthful
appearance, and the roses will be much finer. Where they
are intended for the borders, they should never be allowed
to get too high. In a border from four to six feet, they
ought never to exceed four feet at the back of the border,
and in front one foot, after being pruned; they can be kept
down by the above method. It is not advisable to cut down
rose bushes all at once, unless no regard is paid to flowering.
The roses that are in grass-plats, and interspersed through
the garden, would have a superior appearance in every
respect, if they were kept and trimmed like small trees.
They may be of different sizes and heights, according to the
distance they are from the walk. A single stem may arise
from six inches to six feet, with a head in proportion to the
height of the stem. Where it is necessary to have them above
two feet, and likewise to carry a good head, inoculation must
be resorted to, which, in the months of July and August, will
be fully treated of. All under two feet (except the weak
growing kinds) will do on their own stems, taking care not
to allow shoots to arise from the bottom during the summer.
For directions for pruning climbing roses, see March and
April.
OF PLANTING SHRUBS, Efe.
As soon as the frost is out of the ground, these should be
planted, if the soil is not too wet. Where soil is binding,
upon no consideratic » plant it while wet ; rather defer it until
the end of March.
Trees and shrubs, if they are well arranged, are the chief
ornaments, give the most pleavare, and afford the greatest
delight that we enjoy in uur gardens. Although they give
no sort of nourishment, nor produce any edible fruits, yet
they are particularly grateful, and conducive to our enjoy-
ments. Our walks in summer would be oppressive, but for
their agreeable shade; in the fall and winter, we would be
o
.9)
7
26 OF PLANTING SHRUBS, ETC. [Feb
left exposed to the chilling winds, but for the shelter they
afford.
Likewise, they produce a great variety of flowers, a varied
foliage, and are standing ornaments that give no great trouble.
In the character of sereens, they are particularly useful,
whether to hide disagreeable objects, or as a guard against
the weather; or, if they are planted in masses at a distance,
they soon become agreeable objects, frequently very much
improve the scenery of the place, become objects of utility as
well as ornament, and, in such case, afford the highest satis-
faction. When formed so as to exclude offices from the view
of the house, or for sheltering the latter, or for eonnecting
the house with the garden, orchard, or any similar purpose,
shrubs are both useful and interesting.
Where many shrubs are to be planted, the disposing of
them properly is a matter of considerable importance to the
future welfare of the whole; and, whether deciduous or ever-
greens be mixed or grouped, that-is, indiscriminately planted
together, or the evergreens planted by themselves, as is fre-
quently done, a regular and natural arrangement is indis-
pensable for establishing ornament.
Arranging, no doubt, depends very much on faney; still,
there ought always to be plenty of evergreens planted, that
the whole may be more cheerful in winter.
If shrubberies were made to a great extent, the scenery
would be much more varied and characteristic by grouping
judiciously than by indiscriminately planting.
However, in small flower-gardens and shrubberies, the
latter has to be adopted. In such places, tall-growing kinds
should never be introduced, unless merely as a sereen from
some disagreeable object, for they crowd and confuse the
whole. ‘The dwarf and more bushy sorts should be placed
nearest to the eye, in order that they may conceal the naked
stems of the others. Generally, when shrubs are planted,
they are small; therefore, to have a good effect from the be
ginning, they should be planted eloser than they are intended
to stand. When they have grown a few years, and interfere
with each other, they can be lifted, and such as haye died,
or become sickly, replaced, and the remainder can be planted
im some other direction. Keep them always distinct, one
from another, in order that they may be the better shown
eff. But, if it is not desired that they should be more
Feb.] OF PLANTING SHRUBS, ETO. 27
thickly planted than it is intended to let them remain, the
smail-growing kinds may be six or eight feet apart; the larger,
or taller sorts, ten to twenty feet, according to the condition
of the soil.
Thick masses of shrubbery, called thickets, are sometimes
wanted. In these there should be plenty of evergreens. A
mass of deciduous shrubs has no imposing effect during
winter; and, as this is not the proper season for planting
evergreens (April, and the end of September, or first of
October being best), small stakes can be placed in the des-
tined spot. Planting in rows, or in any plan of a formal
character, should, at all times, be avoided.
In planting at this season, observe that the roots are not
much exposed to the air, especially if the wind be high and
sharp; but it is always better, if possible, to defer the busi-
ness until good, mild weather. According to directions in
November, the ground will be well prepared, and only re-
quires a hole dug for the reception of the roots, which must
be considerably larger, that the roots may not be in the least
confined. Break the earth well at bottom, put in as much
as will receive the plant from one to two inches (according
to its size) lower than it has previously been in the Nursery.
If any of the roots are bruised or broken, cut them off;
then place the plant in the centre of the hole, breaking fine
all the soil that is put in, at the same time shaking the stem
a little, that the earth may mix with the roots; when full
up, press all the soil down with the foot, that it may, in some
degree, consolidate about the roots, and support the plant.
Tall plants should have a good stake for support, and place
a small bandage between the stake and stem of the shrub or
tree, where the tie is made, to prevent the bark from suffer-
ing by friction. Observe, always, before planting, if the
soil is not suitable, to supply that which is congenial to the
nature of the intended plant. When shrubs or trees are to
be carried to any distance, the roots should be carefully kept
from air, by tying damp moss, straw, or mats about them, as
circumstances will admit: .the success, in part, depends on
due attention being paid to prevent the roots drying before
planting. Although we have given the above directions for
planting in this month, it will frequently oceur that they
can only be put into practice during the next, as this month
is often the severest of the season
28 OF HYACINTH AND OTHER BULBS. [ March.
OF HYACINTH AND OTHER BULBS.
Towards the end of the month, if the weather proves
favourable, the covering should be partly taken off from the
Hyacinths, Tulips, and other bulbous roots. It sometimes
occurs that, by careless planting in the autumn, they are
thrown above ground by the frost, especially if the ground
is inclined to moisture, and they not being deep enough
planted ; if such is the case, cover them with decayed leaves,
old tan, or soil, whichever is most convenient; if not done,
the sun and air will overpower the bulbs, and although the
fibres have hold of the ground, the flowers will be miserably
weak.
MARCH.
As soon as the frost is entirely gone, uncover all plants
or shrubs that have been protected, preserving carefully such
of the materials as will answer the same purpose next sea-
son. Cut off all decayed shoots, or such as have been hurt
by the frost. The Lagerstreemias will flower in greater per-
fection, if they are pruned closely; that is, cut the shoots
of last year to within two or three eyes of the wood of the
previous year, at the same time having regard to the regular
and natural shape of the bush. Cut off the injured foliage
of any of the evergreens that have suffered by the severity
vf the winter, but leave every green part which is essential
to the support of this kind of plants. It is expected that
all pruning of the shrubbery 1s finished; if not, get all ex-
peditiously done according to directions given in the preced-
ing months. All work that gan be done in this month
should not be delayed, such as hoeing, digging, raking, and
clearing away all leaves and litter of every description that
have peen brought or blown into the garden during autumn
or winter.
March. | OF FRAMING 29
OF FRAMING.
Where it is desired to have the more showy aunuals early
in bloom, it is necessary to prepare a hot-bed frame, for the
purpose of bringing them forward. It is time, about the
first of the month, to collect and prepare manure for the de
sired hot-bed; and, as that operation, in many instances, is
very imperfectly performed, a few observations on the subject
may be useful.
Take three parts of fresh hot stable manure, with one
part of fresh oak leaves. Have a sufficient quantity to make
the intended bed, or beds, from three to four feet high.
Shake and mix up both together in a compact, conical heap,
in order to encourage fermentation. If the weather is cold
and windy, cover it with straw or leaves and boards, which
is necessary to produce the desired effect. If fermentation
soon takes place, it will need to be thoroughly turned over
in eight or ten days. If any of it has become dry and musty
from excessive heat, as you proceed, water the affected parts,
pile all up neatly, and leave it protected in part as before.
In five or six days more, it will have to be turned again, re-
peating it until the first extreme heat has been over. In
neglect of this, the heat, after making up the bed, will be
vehement for a week or two, frequently destroying the vege-
tative purity of the soil, and proving destructive to the seeds.
Allowing the manure to come to a lively heat, having no
unpleasant, rancid smell, proceed to mark off your intended
bed, running it east and west, as nearly as possible, measure
your frame, and allow the site of the bed eight inches, each
way, larger than the frame: at the corners, place a stick or
rod perpendicularly. The ground ought to be higher than
that around it, to prevent water from getting into the bed,
which, if low, must be filled up; or, if supposed that water
may lodge there, a little brushwood might be put under the
manure, which would keep it from being inundated. The
manure must be built up square and level, shaking, mixing
and beating it regularly with the back of the fork. When
ycu haye it to the desired height (from two to three feet
will be sufficient for annuals), leave the centre of the ped a
little higher than the sides, thus allowing it more to subside.
When finished, put on the frame and sash, or sashes, keep
3%
50) LIST OF CHOICE ANNUALS, ETC. [ March.
them close until the heat arises, covering them at night with
mats or shutters. As soon as you feel the heat increased,
give air by tilting the sashes a few inches, to let off the
steam and stagnated air, observing to close in the afternoon,
and cover at night. If the heat is violent, about half an
inch of air might be left during the night. In about three
days, if all has been properly attended to, the bed will be
what is termed sweet. Then put in about six inches of fine
garden soil; if heavy, mix a little sand with it. Spread it
level, and, when the soil is heated through, sow in small
drills, from one-eighth to an inch deep, according to the size
of the seeds; cover with very fine sifted soil. Some very
small kinds do best when sown upon the surface. When
sown, give gentie sprinklings of water until they come up,
when it will be necessary to give air freely during the day,
to prevent them from being weak, or damping off, which
many of them will do if they have not air regularly admitted.
A LIST OF CHOICE FLOWERING ANNUALS ADAPTED FOR
SOWING ON A HOT-BED.
Alyssum calycina, white, fragrant.
Argeratum Mexicanum, blue-flowered Argeratum.
Asclepias curassavica, swallow wort, orange and red-flowered.
Aster Chinensis, China Aster, or Queen Margarets, in great
variety. The late imported German and Italian Asters
are of extraordinary beauty.
Balsamina hortensis, Balsam, commonly called Ladies’
Slipper.
Browallia alata, upright blue and white Browallia.
Cacalia coccinea, scarlet Cacalia, or Venus’ Paint Brush.
sonchifolia, orange Cacalia.
Calandrinia discolor, rosy purple, very pretty.
Celosia cristata, Coxcomb, two varieties, red and yellow.
Centaurea Americana, American Sultan.
suaveolens, yellow and sweet Sultan.
Clarkia elegans, elegant rose-coloured Clarkia
———— pulchella, showy purple Clarkia.
- alba, white-flowered Clarkia.
Cleome grandiflora, large lilac-flowering spider-plant.
(lintonia elegans, elegant blue Clintonia.
March.) IST OF CHOICE ANNUALS, ETC. 31
Jollinsia bicolor, two-coloured Collinsia.
— heterophylla, lilac and white.
Commelina ceelestis, blue-flowering Commelina.
Dianthus Chinensis, China pink, many fine double varieties.
Gomphrena globosa, red and white globe Amaranthus.
Hoveyii, orange-coloured.
Hibiscus manihot, large yellow Hibiscus.
—-— Africanus major, buff with black centre.
Helichrysum bracteatum,
Xeranthemum lucidum,
; Yellow everlasting.
Lophospermum erubescens, Rose-coloured flowers like the
Roane: Digitalis, a fine climber for
arbours.
Orange red, an interesting climbing plant,
blooming throughout the season.
Malope alba, white-flowering Malope.
grandiflora, large red-flowering Malope.
Mathiola annua, all the varieties of ten week stocks should
be industriously cultivated, and seed sown also in
April and May for autumn blooming.
Maurandia Barclayana, blue-flowering, ales plants for
Loasa lateritia, |
semperflorens, pink-flowering, pillars, trellises or
alba, white, arbours
Mesembryanthemum.
—_______——-- crystallinum, Ice plant.
Mimosa pudica, Sensitive plant.
Mimulus, Monkey flower of sorts. They grow best in moist
half-shady places, are very pretty, generally bright
colours of yellow spotted with crimson or rose.
Petunias of variety, a beautiful genus of plants, of every
variety of colour, from deep purple to pure white,
blooming from June till frost; the seeds are small, and
require to be very lightly covered.
Phlox Drummondii, and its varieties of crimson, rose, lilae,
and white.
Portulaca splendens, splendid purple-flowered Purslane
Thorburnil, yellow.
alba, white.
elegans, crimson.
Thellussonii, red-flowered.
Salpiglossis picta, atropurpurea, &c., delight in a cool situa
tion.
82 LIST OF CUOICE ANNUALS, ETO [ March.
Schizanthus, Like a rich soil, and
pinnatus, calico Schizan- a cool and partially
thus, shaded situation
And a few other varieties,
Shortia Californica, yellow Shortia, very profuse flowering.
Tagetes, Marigold, the new varieties of the French are
very -pretty—they like rich soil and plenty of mois-
ture. :
Tropzolum aduncum, Canary bird flower, a beautiful climber.
—atrosanguineum, crimson Nastur- |
tium, Climbing
Thunbergia alata, buff with black centre, plants.
‘alba, white-flowered,
aurantiaca, fine orange.
Verbena, a lovely family of pretty procumbent plants, that
bloom from June till frost—a packet of seeds will
produce every colour and shade from white to
crimson.
Vinca rosea, Madagascar Periwinkle, Thrive best in a warm,
Schizanthus retusus, ie |
alba, white-flowered Pe- dry situation, with
riwinkle. rich soil.
Zinnia elegans, splendid Zinnia,
———_——— coccinea, scarlet,
alba, white,
pauciflora,yellow,
Very showy plants, and
do best when they are
well supplied with water.
Though the above will bloom much earlier by being sown
on a hot-bed, yet where that convenience cannot be obtained,
they will all succeed treated as hardy annuals.
After sowing, if the weather be clear, the sun acting on
the glass will produce a too rapid evaporation of the mois-
ture of the soil, and may otherwise affect seeds but thinly
covered, which must be guarded against by shading with
mats for a few hours during bright sunshine. In giving
water, it ought always to be about milk-warm, and passed
through a fine rose, to prevent the stems being broken or
bruised. Weeds must be drawn out as soon as they ap
pear
March. | NARDY ANNUALS. 53
HARDY ANNUALS.
Many annual plants, though of short duration, are pos
sessed of much beauty of hue and elegance of form: they
are farther valuable from their adaptation in filling up va-
cant spots through the flower-garden or parterre. hey are,
besides, of easy culture, many requiring nothing more than
to have the seeds sown in the spot where they are to grow.
The first sowing may take place about the end of the month,
when the ground is prepared and the weather fine; but avoid
it at all times when the ground will not pulverize properly.
The neatest and most expeditious method is to take a rod
about one foot long and one inch in diameter, rounding at
the end, with which draw a circle from four to nine inches
in diameter, and from one-eighth of an inch to an inch deep,
according to the size of the seeds. Many very small seeds
will grow best, if sown on the surface of fine mould. When
sown, cover with fine mould, placing a small twig or tally,
with the name, in the centre of the circle, to prevent mistakes
either in sowing, planting, or hoeing. When they have
grown from one to two inches, the first moist day should be
taken to remove such as are too crowded, which can be gene-
rally transplanted to some other situation; taking care to
shade them a few days with flower-pots, or some other
substitute. A few kinds do best with removing, such as
Balsams, China Asters, Marigold, ten week stocks, Hibis-
cus, Zinnias, and several others of a free-growing and
strong-wooded nature. Annuals are such plants as grow
from seed, flower and perfect their productions, and then die
within one year. The following sorts are well deserving of
culture :—
Adonis miniata, Flos Adonis or Pheasant’s eye, red.
Amaranthus caudatus, Love lies Bleeding, red and yellow
variety.
hypochondriacus, Prince’s Feather, red.
Amaranthus tricolor; three-coloured Amaranthus should be
sown on rather poor soil—on rich soil it has little
eauty.
ne uty
— —_
B4 HARDY ANNUALS. [ Marck.
Brachycome ibcridifolia, fine dark blue.
Brugmansia Waymeria, double-flowered, large, and showy.
Centaurea moschata, purple sweet Sultan.
cretica, white sweet Sultan.
suaveolens, yellow sweet Sultan.
Collinsia grandiflora, blue Collins’ flower.
Convolvulus, minor, dwarf blue Bindweed.
Calliopsis bicolor, formerly Coreopsis tinctoria, or Fair Kye;
a very gay plant, and flowers best when sown in
October.
Drummondii, yellow calliopsis.
Crepis rubra, red Hawkweed.
aurea, golden Hawkweed.
Delphinium ajacis, Rocket Larkspur, many varieties, all su-
perb, and do best to be sown in rich ground
in October.
——_———- consolida, branching Larkspur, various colours.
Kuphorbia variegata, variegated Kuphorbia.
Hschscholtzia crocea, Orange. (Now chryseis.)
Calfornica, yellow.
Krysimum Perowffskyanum, bright orange.
Gilia tricolor, three-coloured Gilia,
capitata, blue-coloured, Bloom all summer.
Achillzefolia, large blue,
Heliophila Araboides, blue sun love, very pretty.
Hlieracium mutabilis, changeable Hawkweed.
Helianthus Californicus, superb double dwarf sunflower.
[beris amara, white Candytuft.
umbellata, purple Candytuft.
violacea, violet Candytuft.
odorata, white sweet-scented Candytuft.
Ipomeea quamoclit, Cypress vine, the seed will grow freely,
if soaked two or three hours in hot water.
- alba, white. ©
Lathyrus odoratus, sweet Pea, of many varieties.
Leptosiphon densiflorus, dense-flowered Leptosiphon.
Loasa lateritia, orange-coloured Loasa, a climbing plant.
Impinus, many varieties ; they require to be partially shaded
from hot suns.
Malope grandiflora, scarlet Malope.
—alba, white.
March. ] BOX EDGINGS. 35
Mirabilis jalapa, marvel of Peru, many varieties. If the
roots of this plant are lifted in October, and placed
in a dry cellar, free from frost, and planted out next
April, they will bloom much finer.
Nemophila insignis, or blue Grove Love, a pretty dwarf
plant, requiring rich soil and a half-shaded
situation.
atomaria, white with black spots.
maculata, spotted, beautiful.
Nigella Damacene, Love in a mist.
Hispanica, Spanish, blue and brown.
Ginothera, or tree Primrose; many varieties of the annual
species produce their flowers in much greater perfec-
tion, if planted or sown in poor soil. To this, ansi-
loba, sinuata, and tetraptera are exceptions, as they
flower the finest in a rich, light loam.
vapaver Marseillii, double white poppy, edged with red.
gigantea, large Dutch poppy.
Phlox Drummondii, many colours; a superb article, and
blooms from May till October. In dry situations, it
is apt to die off unless partially shaded.
Reseda odorata, Mignonette; to have it in perfection the
whole season, there should be a sowing in May and
July. It delights in a rich, loamy soil.
Tournefortia heliotropoides, summer Heliotrope.
Viscaria oculata, violet viscaria.
Viola tricolor, Pansy or Heart’s-ease, require very rich soil,
and should be shaded from hot sun; if sown early in
the season, they will flower profusely in the autumn.
For other varieties of Annuals, see list adapted for hot-bed
sowing. We have omitted many not agreeing with our cli-
mate, or those very common; for such, we refer our readers
to the lists published annually by respectable seedsmen.
BOX EDGINGS
May be planted any time this month, or beginning of
next, which in most seasons will be preferable. We wili
give a few simple directions how to accomplish the work.
In the first place, dig over the ground deeply where the
86 GRASS AND OTHER EDGINGS. [March
edging is intended to be planted, breaking the soil fine, anu
keeping it to a proper height, namely, about one inch higher
than the side of the walk; but the taste of the operator will
best decide, according to the situation. Rake the surface
even, and tread it down with the feet, or beat it with the
spade. Where it gives most, continue to add, keeping the
surface at the desired height. If the edging is to be in a
direct line, either on a level or inclined plane, you may be
correctly and simply regulated by making the desired level
at each end of the line. ‘Take three rods, about four feet
rong each, having a piece of one foot to cross at one end, two
of these pieces painted black, the other white. Have a black
one at each end of the line on the level; take the white one for
the centre, going along the line, and, about every twenty feet,
level a spot to the exact height, which will be seen by look-
ing over the top of the rods from one end. Having found
the level, drive in a peg to it, so that no mistake may occur ;
beat and level between them, leaving a smooth surface.
This being done, strain the line, and with the spade proceed
to cut out the trench perpendicularly on the side next the
walk, six, eight, ten, or twelve inches deep, according to the
length of the plants. Afterwards take the plants, and cut
the tops even, with the knife or shears, at the same time
shortening the roots. Then with the left hand next the line,
plant forward, keeping the tops of the plants level, and from
one to two inches above ground, keeping the plants close,
according to the required thickness. Put in the earth as you
proceed, and tread it firm, then rake the surface even, and
with the spade beat it smooth. If the weather sets in very
dry, the box will be the better of a few waterings. Some-
times boxwood is planted without roots, but it seldom gives
satisfaction, not growing equally.
GRASS AND OTHER EDGINGS.
Grass verges for walks and borders, although frequently
used, are by no means desirable, except where variety is re-
quired; they are the most laborious to keep in order, and
at best are inelegant, and the only object in their favour is
their being everywhere accessible. Iris humilis, Viola tri-
color, thyme, Sea Pink (Stattice Armeria), Mignonette,
March. | HARDY BIENNIALS. 37
Phlox subulata, and Plox procumbens, all make tolerable
edgings. In the Southern States, Huonymus Japonica, kept
closely sheared, will make a very handsome green edging.
HARDY BIENNIALS.
Biennial plants are such as are of two years’ duration
Being sown this year, they flower, seed, or fruit next year,
and soon after decay: the seeds should be sown about the
end of this month or beginning of next, either in the spot
where they are to remain or a compartment by themselves,
regularly marked, and to be transplanted in May or Septem-
ber. When they appear above ground, thin them out dis-
tinctly, that, when they are to be removed, a little earth may
adhere to them: and if sown where they are to stand, leave
only three or four plants in each patch. The following list
are a few of the free-blooming and more elegant sorts :—
Agrostemma coronaria, Rose Campion, blooms all summer.
Althea rosea, Hollyhock, and all its varieties, very showy in
July and August. When any very desirable variety
is procured, it can be multiplied by dividing the root.
Antirrhinum majus, Snap-dragon, and its varieties, require
to be protected during winter with a few leaves or
litter.
Cantua coronopifolia, flowers in August and September,
beautiful scarlet, delights in dry gravelly soil
Ipomopsis elegans.
QMampanula media, dark blue Canterbury
bell
Campanula media, semi-pleno, half double | Bloom in June
Canterbury bell, and July.
Campanula media, alba, white Canterbury
bell,
Campanula thyrsoides.
Chciranthus cheiri, Wall-flower, should be protected by leaves
or boards during winter.
Digitalis purpurea, purple Foxglove.
alba, white Foxglove.
Digitalis guttata, spotted Foxglove.
Dianthus barbatus. Sweet William, p*nk.
4
BS PERENNIALS. [ March
Dianthus barbatus, coccineus, crimson pink.
fi. pl. double-flowered: the double sorts
can be propagated by laying, same ag
carnations.
Gerardia purpurea, purple Gerardia. Natives of
flava, yellow Gerardia, this coun-
quercifolia, spotted-flowered Gerardia, ) _ try.
Hedysarium coronarium, red-flowered French Honeysuckle.
Humea elegans, scarlet Humea, flowers in June and Sep-
tember.
Lunaria biennis, Honesty, various colours; not beautiful, but
curious in seed.
(Knothera corymbosa, dwarf Evening Primrose.
Papaver nudicaule, naked-stemmed yellow Poppy.
Scabiosa atropurpurea, musk-scented Scabious.
Silene multiflora, many-flowered Catch-fly.
There might be many other beautiful biennial plants enu-
merated, which are justly considered worthy of attention ;
but most of them do not withstand the severity of our win-
ters, although very much prized in England.
PERENNIALS.
In evary flower-garden, there ought to be a good selection
of these plants. ‘They are lasting ornaments; and, when
judiciously selected, will give yearly gratification. In mak-
ing a choice, a view should be to have those that flower
abundantly, are of free growth, beauty, and continuation of
bloom. It would go beyond our limits to give an extensive
description of any, but a few remarks on some of the finest,
with their names, are indispensable.
Adonis verndlis is a fine border-flower, and will grow in
any common soil; flowers large, yellow-rayed, having in the
rays about twelve petals; leaves much divided; blooms in
April and May.
Anemdne, Wind-flower. Several fine species, with flowers
from one to three inches in diameter, very celebrated in Hu-
rope, though succeeding poorly with us except in cool lati-
tudes. A. alpina, large white. A. japonica, rosy purple.
4. palmata flore-pléno yellow; A. stellata versicolor, various
March. | PERENNIALS 39
coloured; A. pavonina flore-pléno, scarlet; A. narcissi-flora
white. Any of these are very desirable,
Antirrhinums, Snap-dragon. All the varieties of A.
madjus are esteemed in the flower-borders; the pure white,
bright red, rich crimson, and variegated, are very showy. A
few of the species, A. mdlle and A. stculwm, where there is
variety required, deserve a situation. The flowers are all
large, and similar to the snout of an animal.
Anthéricum lilidstrum, St. Burnos Lily, is an excellent
liliaceous plant, with orange-yellow flowers, blooming in June,
July, and August and will grow in any common garden
soil,
Asclépias. The finest of this genus are native plants,
and are highly esteemed in Europe, but frequently rejected
with us, because “they are wild plants.” A. tuberdsa has
beautiful orange flowers, and delights in dry situations. A.
rubra, A. nevia, A. purpurdscens, and A. incarndta are
the finest of the family. It is best to plant A. tuberdsa in
October.
Aconitums, Wolfsbane, one hundred and twenty-eight
distinct species, with several varieties. Many of them are
of consequence and beauty; the flower-stems rise from one
and a half to six feet upright, and strong, furnished with
many palmate and digitate leaves, terminated by spikes of
blue, yellow, or white flowers, similar to a hood; hence the
name of Monk’s hood is often applied to them. They are
scarce in collections; but, in a few years, we have no doubt
but many of them will be plentiful. The finest species are
A. specidsum, A. sieboldii, large dark blue, A. pyrenaiacum,
branching blue, A. napéllus, A. ventstum, A. pyramidale,
A. lycétonum, A. versicolor, or variegatum, and A. grandi-
florum. They flower from May to September, and will grow
in any common garden soil. The roots of A. napéllus are
like small turnips, and are poisonous. ‘They like a little shade
and rich soil.
Réllis perénnis horténsis, Daisy. We might almost say
_ with another, “‘ Every one knows the Daisy.” It is named
from being pretty, and is perfectly hardy, though generally
kept under cover. They delight to have a shaded situation
during summer, to protect them from the sun, which, as it
were, scorches the roots. There are many double varieties in
the gardens, which flower early. The one called Crown ar
40 PERENNIALS. [ March
Carnation Daisy is twice the size of the common varieties,
and has white and red petals alternately and very double.
The Belgian varieties are very numerous, but few of them are
equal to our old sorts. Loamy soil, inclined to moisture, is
best adapted to their growth.
Campdnula. This genus affords very many ornamental
plants for the Flower-garden and Shrubbery, and they flower
superbly during the summer, agreeing better with our climate
than with that of EKurope. Many have two successions of
flowers, C. persicifolia alba pléna; C. persicifolia carilea
pléno; C. urticifolia, white. Of this last there is also a
double variety. C. nobilis, large pale lilac, spotted with erim-
son; CO. nobilis alba, white, spotted with crimson; C. grandis,
fine bright blue. C. speciosa; C. glomerata; C. versicolor,
with several others, are worthy of a situation in every garden.
Their roots are strong, fleshy, and fibrous. They are easy of
culture, and will retain their situation in the severest of our
winters. C. grandiflora is now Wahlinbérgia grandiflora.
It has superb large blue flowers, stems are slender, and require
support.
Cheirdnthus Chéiri vulgaris is the ccmmon garden Wall-
flower. There are about ten varieties of it, all admired for
their various colours and agreeable odour. The common
variety survives the mildest of our winters. The most
esteemed variety is hamdnthus, Double bloody. They should
all be protected by a frame. C. mutdbilis is a beautiful species;
it has many shades of colour, from lilac to dark purple. The
flowers are on extending racemose spikes, blooming from April
to June; it requires a light rich soil; is a half-shrubby ever-
green plant.
Chélone. This genus belongs entirely to this continent,
and possesses many fine species. It is a matter of astonish-
ment that they are not more cultivated and sought for in our
collections. C. glabra; C. obliqua; C. barbdata; C. atro-
purpurea; C. pulchélla; and C. specidsa; are all handsome,
and flower from May to September; corolla large, ringent,
ventricose; flowers in spikes or panicles.
Chrysénthemums. 'The Chinese Chrysanthemum was first
introduced to the garden of the King of France about sixty
years ago, and shortly after about ten varieties were sent from
Canton to England, a gardener having been sent out expressly
for them, so much were they admired by Sir Abraham Hume.
Murch.) PERENNIALS. At
There are now over two hundred varieties, far excelling the
old sorts, and even surpassing the critical anticipations of the
most ardent connoisseurs. A few years ago we would have
been satisfied with a good dozen, but now four times that
number will not embrace all their beauties which have origi-
nated in France, England, and the United States. The fo:low-
ing list we can admit as now unrivalled :
Large Flowered.
Annie Salter, fine yellow.
Baron de Solomon, rosy crimson.
Defiance, lemon yellow.
Julia Langdale, rosy purple.
Liencour, lilac and orange.
Magnificent, blush.
Mrs. Cope, dark crimson purple.
President de Abbeville, crimson.
Queen, early blush.
Racine, straw tipped with bronze.
Sphinx, bright claret.
William Penn, creamy white.
White Perfection, pure white.
Pompone or Lilliputian Flowered.
Cybelle, amber and gold.
Uarriet Lebois, rosy carmine.
Hendersonii, fine early yellow.
Henriette Chauviere, blush.
La Fiance, white.
La Gitana, blush pink.
Larty, rosy crimson.
Mignonette, rose.
Paquerette, white shaded crimson.
Sacramento, dark yellow red centre.
Triomph de Bordeux, shaded blush.
Vartigene, crimson.
To grow these in perfection, they require rich light soil,
and about the end of this month the roots should be lift-
ed, divided, and planted into fresh soil, either by giving
*
42 PERENNIALS. [ March.
them a new situation, or changing the earth they were in
Two or three stems together are quite sufficient. The
flowers, by the above treatment, will be much larger, more
double, and finer in colour; where they are wanted to grow
low and bushy, top them in June, but not later than the
first of July Where the soil is rich, and the plant having
only one stem, by topping it, makes a beautiful bush. They
are in flower from the first of October until severe frost ;
thus beautifying our gardens at a season when they would
be destitute of one single attraction. If the season be dry,
to water them with liquid manure will add to their vigour.
They are all natives of China, and greatly esteemed by the
Chinese, who only allow a few blooms to come out on the
top of each stem, thereby having the flowers much finer.
Clématis, Virgin’s-bower. A few species are good herba-
ceous plants, of upright growth and blue flowers, C. integri-
folia; C. angustifolia ; and C. erécta; they grow best in
light soil.
Coréopsis, chiefly native plants, and free-flowering ; colour
principally yellow; flowers rayed. OC. tenuifolia, C. verti-
cilldéta, C. discolor, and C. tripteris, are the finest of the genus,
and will grow in any common garden soil.
Delphiniums. There are some showy border flowers of
these, of strong growth. The leaves are much divided; the
flowers in terminal spikes; colour blue, purple, pink, white
and yellow, with various shades. D. grandiflorum, and its
varieties, are the best of the genus. D. intermedium, and
its varieties, D. eldtum, Bee Larkspur, from the ringent
part of the flower being very like a bee, D. Chinense, dark
blue, D. Barlowii, large bright blue, and D. montdnum,
are good varieties, and easily cultivated. When the plants
become large, they ought to be divided, and planted in fresh
soil. They are in bloom from May to September.
Didnthus. Some of the species of this genus are the most
prominent of the flower-garden, not only for their beauty,
but also their fragrance, which is peculiarly grateful, especially
in the well-known and celebrated Pink and Carnation, with
the Sweet William, which was esteemed in the days of old
“for its beauty to deck up the bosoms of the beautiful, and
garlands and crowns for pleasure.” The finest species are
D. barbatus and D. barbatus pléno, Sweet William; D.
discolor; D. chinénsis; D. alpinus; D. supérbus; D,
March. | PERENNIALS. 43
caryophyllus, from which have originated the Picotee and
the Carnation; D. plumdrius, from which originated the
Double Pink. Several of these, although they will stand
the severest cold, have to be protected in frames during
winter, to have them in the perfection of beauty. For the
character of a Pink and Carnation, see May.
Dictémnus. 'Two species of this genus, D. fraxinélia and
D. dibus, have been cultivated and esteemed upwards of two
hundred and forty years. A plant of the first of these spe-
cies, when gently rubbed, emits an odour like that of lemon-
peel; and when bruised emits a balsamic scent, which is
strongest in the pedicles of the flowers. They have glands
of a rusty colour, that exude a viscid juice, or resin, which
exhales in vapour, and in a dark place may be seen to take
fire. Its flowers are red, those of the other white, in loose
terminal spikes; the flower has five petals, clawed and
unequal, with glandular dots; in bloom from May to July ;
delights in sandy loam.
Dodecdtheon. This is a native genus, and commonly
called American cowslip. The generic term, a name of the
Romans, signifying twelve gods or divinities, is applied with
great absurdity to a plant, a native of a world the Romans
never saw nor had any idea of; neither resembling in any par-
ticular the poetical fancy of their writers. The most admired
species is D. média; the flowers are in umbels, on a pedicle,
from six to twelve inches high ; the corolla is rotata reflexa ;
colour light purple, bottom of petals lake and yellow; bloom-
ing in May. The white variety is very much esteemed, and
surpasses the preceding. The ground is pure white, the
bottom of the petals the same as the other. There is also
a spotted variety found on the banks of the Missouri. They
delight in brown loam, a half shady situation, inclining to
moisture. The foliage soon decays after flowering.
Dracocéphalum, Dragon’s Head, about twenty species,
mostly ornamental. D. virgintcum is a profuse blooming
plant, with bluish-pink flowers, and grows about four feet
high. D. argunénse is a superb dwarf, with large dark blue
flowers.
Dielytra spectabilis, a new and very splendid Fumwort of
dwarf habit, with a profusion of large delicately shaded pink
towers during June and July.
Ewpatériums. These generally are native plants, not
44 PERENNIALS. [ March.
worthy of notice here, except for two species. LH. calestt-
num has syngenesious flowers in flattened panicles, colour
fine light blue, blooming from September to November; de-
sirable for its beauty at that season. #. aromdticum may be
cultivated for its spicy odour ; flowers white, in loose terminal
panicles ; blooming from August to October. Hither of them
will grow in common soil.
Funkia, Japan Day Lily, three species, all beautiful. F
ceriléa, with blue flowers. . japdnica, pure white, and F.
variegata, with striped leaves and flowers. F. laurifolia,
early blue. This genus has been separated from Hemerocdilis.
Gentidnas, a genus of very showy plants, and flower in
great abundance. The flowers are tubular and inflated;
colour generally blue. A few species are yellow, and some
white; flowers in whorls, terminal or solitary. They grow
best in a light rich soil. G. hitea, G. purpiirea, G. septém-
fida. G. acailis is a pretty dwarf-growing species, the
flower dark and light blue; interior of the corolla spotted ;
has a succession of flowers from April to June. These are
fine exotics, but may give place to our native species, such as
G. Catesbet; G. ochroletca; G. incarndta; with several
others, and @. crindta, which is a biennial, and finely fringed ;
colour light blue.
Géum. There are only four species that are worth culti-
vation, namely, G'‘. guéllyon, once G. coccineum; G. splen-
dens, G. Wicea, and Gt. hybridum. G. urbdnum is some-
times cultivated for its roots, which, when chewed, sweeten
the breath. They are all of easy culture. G. quéllyon and
splendens flower from May to October, and are very desirable
plants for the borders, and much esteemed in Europe.
Hemerocdllis, Day Lily; three species, H. filva, H. gra-
minea, and H. Sieboldii, fiower well, and are remarkable
among the border flowers for their large yellow or copper-
coloured corollas, some of them about six inches in diameter ;
bloom from May to July, and will grow in almost any soil
There is a plant known in our gardens as Hf. cwrilea, which
is Fuinkia cerilea, and has a campanulate corolla, with a
cylindrical tube ; flowers in spikes ; leaves ovate, acuminate.
Hibiscus. ‘There are several herbaceous species very
showy and handsome, H. pahistris; H. roseus; H. mititd-
ris * H. specidsus ; H. grandiflorus ; and H. piingens. Thev
grow best in moist situations, and where these are not to be
March. PERENNIALS. 45
had, give them plenty of water, and plant in sandy soil
enriched with decayed leaves. The flowers are about six
inches in diameter, flowering up the stem, either solitary or
m small bunches. H. specidsus is the most splendid, and
deserves a situation in every garden. The roots in winter
ought to be covered with litter, tan, or sawdust; but a
better method is to lift them, and put them in the cellar,
covered with dry earth, and kept from the frost. All the
above-mentioned species are improved by being protected
during winter.
Iris, Flower-de-lis, has many fine species of various shades
and colours, J. subiflora, I. nepalénsis, I. Pallasii, I. pallida,
I. cristata, I. arendria, I. furedta, I. germdncia, I. floren-
tina, I. vérna, and Z. susid@na. The last is the finest of the
herbaceous species; the flowers are very large and curiously
spotted with brown; it stands the severest of our winters
unprotected. The root of L. florentina is the orris root of
the druggists. They are all of easy culture in any loamy
soil inclining to moisture. The bulbous species will be
treated of in September or October. Corolla six-petalled,
three erect and three reclined alternately ; proceeding from.
spathes or sheaths with flowers in succession.
Liatris is a genus of native plants, containing several fine
species, J. sguarrosa, large purple heads of beautiful flowers ;
LL. élegans; L. paniculata. L. macréstachya, now L. spicata,
is a fine large-growing species. They have syngenesious pur-
ple flowers in long close spikes, differing from other spiked-
flowering genera by blooming first at the extremity. They
grow best in strong heavy soil.
Lychnis. Three species are very desirable in the flower
borders. JL. chalceddnica has bright searlet-crowned flowers ;
the double scarlet variety is splendid; there is also a double
white variety; L. falgens and L. fldsjovis. They ought te
be frequently lifted and planted afresh; or they will dwindle
to nothing. The best time is when they begin to grow.
There is a plant known in our collections as Lychnis flds-
cuctli, ragged Robin or French Pink, which is now Agros-
témma fids-cuctli ; it is a fine and showy border plant, with
double red flowers; a double white variety of it has been
recently introduced, of the same character, with the additional
quality of blooming the whole season. They delight in a
hght rich soil.
Le:
46 PERENNIALS. [ March.
Lythrums. AURICULAS, ETC. b3
th2 extremities of the leaves are decayed, cut them off, with
any other decayed leaves; the pots must be well drained with
shivers or fine gravel. Give them plenty of air, otherwise
they will be weak in growth.
Primroses and Dvisies may be planted out in shady situa-
tions: the sun destroys them during summer, if exposed.
AURICULAS.
These beautiful and highly interesting plants are, to a
great degree, neglected in our collections. It cannot be froma
want of beauty or fragrance that they have not attracted our
attention, for they are exquisite in both. We are rather in-
clined to think that those who have them do not give them
the treatment they require yearly to perfect their bloom
They should now have the surface earth taken off about half
an inch down, and fresh soil added, which will cause them to
put on fresh fibres about the upper part of the roots, and
greatly increase their growth. The frame in which they are
placed should now face the east, as the sun will be too strong
for them; and about the end of the month turn it to the
north. The glass of the frame may be white-washed, which
will partially shade them from the sun, that being their de-
light. Give them water sparingly until they begin to grow,
and never water them over the foliage previous to flowering,
as water injures that fine meaty-like substance found on many
of the sorts, and which so greatly improves their beauty.
Defend them, therefore, from rain and high winds. ‘To have
them flower strongly, only one flower-stem should be allowed
to grow. ‘The first one that shows is generally the best. At
all events, leave the strongest, and cut off all the others, or
only nip off the flower pips, which answers the same end.
Never keep the sash off during the night, in case it rain
before morning.
RANUNCULUS AND ANEMONE.
The frames of Ranunculus and Anemone must have plenty
of air, and give frequent sprinklings of water. The sashes
er shutters should be taken entirely off every mild day, and
5*
54 ROSES. [ March.
in fine nights leave them exposed to the dew. Stir the earth
among them, breaking it fine, and making all neat and clean.
They require liberal supplies of water after they begin to
prow.
ROSES.
This is the most favourable month for planting all kinds
of garden roses, which must be done as soon as the weather
opens, and the ground is in a proper state. The earlier they
are planted the more perfect they will flower. Never delay
planting when there is an opportunity; for, if delayed until
the leaves are expanded, the bloom will be much weakened,
and the probability is there will be no flowers, and the plants
meet with a premature death. It has been said, ‘There is
a particular advantage in planting some every ten days, even
to the middle of May; for the flowering of them may be re-
tarded in this way, and the bloom of these delightful shrubs
continve for a much longer period.”” One moment’s reflec-
tion will convince us that nature, while in her own element,
will not be retarded, suppose there was no danger of instan-
taneous death to the plants. he artificial means that might
be judiciously adopted, with which we are acquainted, to
keep back the blooming of hardy plants, is to lift them as
soon in spring as is practicable, put them in boxes of earth,
and then place them in the driest part of an ice-house, until
the desired time of planting, which may be delayed as long
as the required time of flowering. ‘This will be found a true
method of retarding the flowering of roses especially, and not
going counter to the rules and principles of nature. There
are many beautiful varieties of the garden rose in cultivation,
the names of the finest of which we will give in the following
catalogue :-— ;
African black, very dark crimson, compact and very double.
Belle amabile, fine dark red, large and double.
Baron de Stael, bright cherry colour, globular, large and
double.
Pelle Hebe, large purplish red, cupped, double and fine.
rouennaise, a very superb rose, with red centre and
blush edge.
March. ROSES. 55
Belgic or Dutch Provins, red, with very large flowers, cupped
and extra double.
Bouquet de Lisle, spotted.
Cabbage Provins, or Fine rose, very large, globu-
Centifolia of the French, ea pease) and extremely
Don Soio, shaded and spotted.
Harrisoni,* bright yellow, cupped, small and semi-double.
Helen, light pink, very large, cupped and double.
Imperial blush, delicate blush, expanded, large and double.
Isabella, blush pink, very profuse, cupped and doubie.
King of Roms, deep red, very large, compact and exquisitely
double.
La Ville de Bruxelles, bright rose.
Leonore, purplish red, very compact, imbricated, and double.
Madam Hardy, pure white, large, globular and exquisitely
double.
Plantier, pure white, very profuse.
Moss rose,f delicate rose, globular and perfectly double
Comte de Montmorency, pale blush.
—— white, old white, expanded and double.
—— white bath, or Clifton, white moss, fine white, cupped
and double.
—— crimson or Damask, very bright rose, expanded and
double, and very mossy.
{hc is not properly a moss rose,
crested, moss or
crested Provins,
but has a curiously mossy calyx
that envelopes the bud—pink,
globular, and double.
Luxemburg, bright red, compact and double.
panache, frequently striped.
perpetual red.
— Hermen Kegel, rosy crimson.
Genl. Druoat, red.
* This Rose, with a ‘‘Florist’s privilege,” has been sold for the
yellow sweetbrier. It is also called Hogg’s Yellow Rose.
7 It has long been questioned whether the Moss Rose was a dis-
tinct species, or merely a seminal variety of the Provins Rose. I
perfectly agree with the latter opinion—for in June, 1836, I saw in
my nursery a plant of the Moss Rose with a large shoot that had
sported back to the Provins Rose, and entirely destitute of moss on
either shoots or buds, We have no faith in black and yellow Mosg
Noses; al] we have seen for such have proved false to their character
56 ROSES. [March
Moss, perpetual white, blooming in clusters.
unique de Provence, white.
Negritina, pink, very compact, imbricated and double.
Nonpareil, rosy red, compact and perfectly double.
Oillet parfait, striped like a carnation.
Perlet des panaches, striped rose and white.
red, see red Provins.
— white, see white Provins.
Proyins cabbage, see Cabbage Provins.
Queen of violets, violet colour, compact, cupped and very
double.
— Caroline, fine changeable red, cupped and double.
Sweetbrier, single pink.
celestial, blush, fine double flowered.
Unique or white Provins, pure white, very large globular,
and double, superb.
Unique striped, often is perfectly white, and merely a sport
from the former.
Village Maid, or Belle Rubine, striped.
Yellow Persian, the finest yellow rose grown.
We mention these as fine; but, among several thousand
cultivated varieties of the garden rose, there must be many
of equal, if not surpassing beauty; of /tosa spinosissima,
there are about five hundred varieties; Rosa gallica, two
hundred ; /?. centifolia, one hundred and fifty; R. damascéne,
above one hundred; /. alba, fifty; R. rubiginosa, thirty ;
and of various sorts above eleven hundred. In several indi-
vidual collections of Europe, there are cultivated above fifteen
hundred species, sub-species, and varieties.
When planted, they are too frequently crowded indiscri-
minately among other shrubs, which prevents them having
the effect they would have if planted singly or grouped.
They vary in size, in different sorts, from one to ten feet.
When planted in the latter method, they should be assimi-
lated in size of leaves and manner of growth, with the great-
est variation of flower; or, if planted in small patehes, each
distinct in colour, will have a very picturesque effect. Another
desirable and fanciful method is to plant them in figures,
with edgings of wire, willow, or any other substitute, in
imitation of basket-work, which is called ‘“ baskets of roses ;”
the ground enclosed in the basket margin to be made convex,
which will present a greater surface to the eye; the strong
March. | ROSES. oT
thoots to be layered, or kept down by pegs m tne gro md,
having the points of the shoots only to appear above the aoil,
which should be covered with moss. With this treatment,
in a few years the whole surface of the basket will be covered
with rose-buds and leaves, of one or various sorts. If two or
three of the larger growing sorts are taken, such as Moss or
Provins, they may be trained so as to cover a surface of
several square yards.
A modern invention in the cultivation of the rose is to
grow them in shape of trees, by budding on strong-grow-
ing kinds at different heights from the ground, according to
taste, and the purposes intended. If budded on Rosa céd-
nina, or Dog Rose, they are much more valuable: it is a last-
ing and strong-growing stock; and the worst of all stocks is
the Boursalt rose, and it is too frequently resorted to, being
easy of propagation. They will form in a few years hand-
some round heads, which will flower more freely than by
layers, or trained on their own stalk. They are particularly
desirable among low shrubs. When planted, they should be
well supported by strong rods, to prevent the wind from de-
stroying them. If any of the roots have been bruised in
lifting, cut off the bruised part with the knife, and likewise
shorten the young shoots; breaking the earth well about
their roots when planting. The rose has been an esteemed
shrub among all civilized nations. The flowers are double,
semi-double, and single; the colours are pink, red, purple,
white, yellow, and striped, with almost every shade and mix-
ture; the odour universally grateful. This plant is sultivat-
ed in every garden, from the humblest cottager to the loftiest
prince, and by commercial gardeners in Hurope extensively,
for distilling rose-water, and making the essential oil of roses.
They delight in a rich loamy soil, and require plenty of
moisture while in a growing state. Those sorts which throw
up numerous suckers should be lifted every three or four
years, reduced, and then transplanted. When thus removing
unem, avoid, as much as possible, exposing their roots; and
when newly planted, mulching is of considerable advantage ;
that is, putting half-rotten stable-manure on the surface of
the ground round their roots, which prevents evaporation,
and keeps up a constant moisture. If this were done in
general to our roses in dry seasons, it would greatly improve
their flowering. For Chinese and other roses, see next month.
58 ORNAMENTAL FLOWERING SHRUBS. [ March.
CLIMBING ROSES.
This is the best time to prune ever-blooming climbing
roses, such as Champney, Noisette, &e. Many of these,
when allowed to grow year after year without pruning, be-
come unsightly; they never bear flowers on the old wood,
that is, wood of three or four years. Having a tendency to
throw out young shoots from the bottom of the stem, the old
wood should be cut out, thus encouraging the young wood,
which the second year bears the most and finest flowers
In severe winters, the extremities of the shoots are frequent-
ly killed, and we have often seen all the wood black or brown,
and apparently dead. When that is the case, it is best to
leave it until they begin to grow, which will show what is
dead or alive, when they can be pruned to better advantage.
DECIDUOUS ORNAMENTAL FLOWERING SHRUBS.
The earlier the planting of these shrubs 1s attended to in
this month, the more will their growth and flowering be pro-
moted, having all finished before the buds begin to expand.
(Hor kinds recommended, see list, end of the volume.) They
should never be planted too thick; but leave space for them
to grow as they respectively require, and according as they
are designed for open or close shrubberies, clumps, or thick-
ets. Have all in readiness, that it may be done with as
much expedition as possible, to prevent their roots from
being dried by the sun and wind in time of planting.
Make the holes intended for their reception round, capacious,
and deep enough to hold their roots, without confining them
in the least, and loosen well the bottom, putting new and
fresh soil under their roots, breaking and puiverizing it dur-
ing the operation, and frequently shaking the plant as you
progress in filling up. When done, make all firm with the
foot, leaving a circular cavity to hold the water they will
require during dry weather. Give rods, and tie with bands
all that need that support, before they are left, lest they
shoull be neglected. Cut off any of the bruised roots or
irregular growths of the branches.
hiarch.] GRASS-PLATS AND WALKS. of
GRASS-PLATS AND WALKS.
A most wonderful renovator of grass-plats may be found
in Guano. Take at the rate of one pound to twelve square
yards, mix it with double the quantity of sand, and before
rain in April or May, sow the mixture over the grass; ina
few days its effects will be seen. Where grass lawns are
poor, and of a pale yellow colour, about four hundred weight
to the acre, mixed with sand, plaster, or dry earth, will effec
tually restore them to a luxuriant verdure.
Rake and sweep off from these all litter, and worm-cast
earth, and give an occasional rolling to settle the ground,
and render the surface smooth where the scythe is to be used.
The grass will likewise grow better by rolling it where the
frost has partially thrown it out, and add greatly to its beau-
ty. Cut the edgings with an edging-iron or spade, so that
the whole will have a finished appearance. If any new turf
is required to be laid down, this is a very good time to do it,
before vegetation is strong; as the turf that is now laid will
have taken root before the dry season commences. Where
a great extent is to be done, sowing might be adopted; but
it will not have the effect of turf under three years, and dur-
ing that time must be carefully cut, after the first season-
every three weeks, while growing; nor must it be too fre
quently walked upon. White clover and true perennial rye-
grass are the seeds most proper for sowing. The ground
must, in the first place, be all equally made up, and levelled
with the spade and rake; not “cart-loads of soil laid down
and levelled,’ which would finally become very uneven, ana
wouida need to be lifted and relaid next year. The best turf
is that of s close-growing pasture or common, free from all
kinds of «.seds or strong roots, and the grass short. To cut
it expeditiously, be provided with a turfing-iron; but if that
cannot be convenicntly had, a spade may do very well. Strain
a line tight, cutting the turf lengthwise, at equal distances,
from twelve to eighteen inches. Next draw the line across,
cutting from one and a half to two feet; then cut them up
with the spade, about one and a half inch thick. In laying,
jom them close and alternately; when done, beat them firm
with a level woolen beater, and roll with a heavy roller.
Grass-walks, in the last century, were very popular; but
60 GRAVEL WALKS. [March
time having put them to the test, they are found unfit for
walking among or using in any manner, almost for one-half
of the year; therefore, not answering the purposes intended.
They require great attention to keep them in order; and if
not always neat and clean, they are a disagreeable object in a
garden; but, when they are well dressed, their effect is very
enlivening. Where they are desired, prepare the ground ag
above directed; making the walk a little higher than the
adjoining borders, to prevent the earth from being washed on
it by the rain. Allowing the walks to be six feet wide, make
the centre five inches higher than the sides, or about seven-
eighths of an inch to the foot, whatever the breadth may be,
which will form a gentle declivity to throw off the rain.
When laid, beat and roll it well; cutting the edge neat and
even. Water frequently, if the weather sets in dry. To
keep grass-walks or plats in order, they should be mown once
every three or four weeks, from May to September, and the
grass each time swept clean off. When the grass is allowed
to get long before being cut, the roots become tender, and
die when exposed to the sun; at last the grass is all in spots,
and in another year requires to be relaid.
GRAVEL WALKS.
A practice once existed of turning these into heaps, ot
ridges, during winter, to destroy weeds, &c. But this has
almost been given up as unnecessary, unsightly, inconvenient,
and not doing any material service.
Where the surface of these has become foul, irregular, or
mossy, they had better be turned over four or five inches
deep, where the gravel will admit of it; but if not, hoe and
rake them perfectly clean, give a new coat of gravel, and pick
up any stones that you think too large; then give them a
good rolling, applying it frequently after showers of rain.
When they are well attended to just now, they will look well
all the season; but if neglected, they take more labour, and
are never in such good condition.
Fancy-edgings of Thyme, Thrift, Lavender, and Violets—
(Daisies may be used if the situation is shaded). The whole
of these may be planted by the line with the dibber except
Thyme, which lay as directed for Box. See this month,
March. | OF GRAFTING. 61
under that head. Any time in this or beginning of next
menth will answer to make edgings of these; and if dry
weather occurs before they begin to grow after planting, they
must have frequent waterings until they have taken fresh
root. Thyme requires to be dressed twice during the season,
to keep it in order.
OF GRAFTING.
There are four methods of grafting. It can be applied to
all kinds of shrubbery, choosing a common species from the
same genus that the sort belongs to, which is intended to be
multiplied. The one we will describe is whip or tongue
grafting, which is the preferable and most expeditious plan
with all deciduous shrubs or trees. The stock upon which
it is performed must be slender, from two-thirds of an inch te
any diameter suitable to the thickness of the graft. Having
headed the stock at a clear, smooth part, slope it on one side
with a sharp knife at a very acute angle, make a slit on the
lower side of the slope about an inch downward to receive
the tongue or wedge of the graft or scion. Secondly, having
the prepared scions cut into lengths of three, four or five
eyes, take one which matches the stock in size, and slope
the bottom of it so as to fit the stock, that the rinds of both
may correspond exactly, especially on one side and at bottom ;
make also a slit upward in the graft, like that in the slope of
the stock, so that the one may be inserted in the other as
evenly and completely as possible. Let the graft be carefully
held in its due position, while a bandage is applied. Take
strands of Russian mat, and bind them in a neat manner
several times round the stock and graft. Lastly, cover the
joint with well-worked clay; ccat from half an inch below
the bottom of the graft to an inch above the top of the stock,
and to the thickness of half an inch all round; finish it in
an oblong globular form, taking care to work it close, that
no air may penetrate. If the clay is covered with moss, it
will partially prevent it from cracking.
The grafts will have taken when they begin to grow freely :
then the clay may be broken off, and the bandage loosened,
and put on again, but not so tight as formerly; give the
grafts a stake for support, tying then thereto to prevent
6
62 ANNUALS. [April
accidents from the wind. Allow no shoots to arise from the
stock.
APRIL.
THE ambition of every amateur and gardener, during this
month, is to be at the head of every department, and over
every spot. The operator’s activity, in this month, almost
regulates the whole season. Hvery weed ought to be cut
down as soon as it appears, and the proverbial saying will be
realized, “A garden that is well kept is easily kept ;” one
hour of laborious industry now will save two in the heat of
summer. A wet day need cause no loss of time: prepare
rods, bands, and tallies, to be in readiness when required
Many, in the height of bustle, never finish properly as they
proceed, which is the worst of practices. Every operation
ougkt to be completely and properly finished before another
is taken in hand, which wil! ultimately prove the quickest
and best method to work upon.
Let digging, hoeing, and raking be done as expeditiously
as strength will allow, that the time may be devoted, for a
few wecks, to the beautifying of the garden and parterre, bv
sowing and planting.
ANNUALS.
Those that are tender and were sown last month, according
to directions, will be ready to prick out into another glass
frame. Keep them a few inches apart, to let the air circu-
late. Give them frequent sprinklings with water, and shade
them with a mat for a few days, until they have taken fresh
root ; then give them plenty of air, and by the first of next
month, expose them, night and day, to harden the plants for
the open ground. of its history will assist in giving a key to its cul
ture. The plant was first discovered by Humboldt, in Mex-
ico, growing in sandy plains three thousand feet above
the level of the sea. The date is not precisely known, but
supposed to be about 1785-6. Indisputable authority, how-
ever, speaks of its being introduced into England in 1789 ;
but was lost and again introduced in 1803, from Madrid, by
Lady Holland; from which period till 1830 it had but little
notice in cultivation. Indeed, it seems to have been reserved
for the intelligent growers of the last few years to bring it
into general notice; and if we take a retrospective view of
the rapid progress of Dahlia culture within these last five
years, we will be led to exclaim, ‘ Where will ali this termi-
nate?’ But time alone can solve the question ; at present it
is impossible to come to any satisfactory conclusions. Only
a few years ago, and who would have conceived the idea of
having tipped, striped, and spotted Dahlias of almost every
hue and colour; and although historical writers on the genus
alluded to the improbability of a blue flower ever being pro-
duced, yet it is not unreasonable to imagine that ere long we
will have flowers beautifully and distinctly striped with black
and white, and even combining the gaudy colours of the tulip,
or the choicest hues of the carnation; perhaps the criteria of
character may change to those of huge globular forms or
balls—nay, even the odour of the Rose or the Jasmine may
be imparted, and what then? Only let amateurs and culti-
vators persevere with the spirit they have done during the
last few years, and we think all we have advanced will be
realized.
Propagation.—-This operation may be performed in various
ways, either by division of the root, by cutting off the young
shoots, or by grafting. For general planting division of the
g*
102 PROPAGATION BY CUTTINGS. [May
root will be sufficient; about the first of the month the old
root, entire, should be planted in some warm and sheltered
spot of the garden, covering it with sand, vegetable mould,
or any light soil; in about two weeks the eyes or young shoots
will have sprouted: then it will be properly seen how they
ean be most carefully divided; the root should be carefully
cut into as many pieces as there are eyes or sprouts, leaving
only one tuber to each, when they can be planted into the
situation appropriated for their blooming.
Propagation by Cuitings.—Prepare a hot-bed in March,
as therein described, and place a frame and lights of the
required size upon it; scatter over the surface of the bed four
or five inches of sand, old bark, or any light soil; after four
or five days, the fresh steam will have subsided, when the
roots may be laid thereon, covering them (but not over the
crowns) with light sandy soil; but where large pots can be
oStained, I prefer planting them in the pots; by this means
tke plants are kept distinct, and can be taken out at any
time and examined. They should be frequently sprinkled
with water that is partially warm; and if, after they are thus
placed in the bed, a rank and dense steam should arise, the
lights should be slightly raised both night and day, till it
subsides; and if the nights are cold, cover the lights with
wats or shutters. This gentle bottom-heat will speedily in-
duce the eyes to grow, and when the shoots have attained the
height of three or four inches, they should be cut off close to
the base, which makes the best plant. After the cuttings
are taken off, pot them singly into very small pots filled with
light sandy loam, containing a good portion of black earth
from the woods, and placed in another moderate hot-bed, and
give a gentle supply of water. Particular care must be paid
to shading them from the violent rays of the sun, for if they
are once exposed, they seldom recover: in this state they
should continue till they have formed their roots, which, in
a temperature of from sixty to seventy degrees, will be in
from two to three weeks. Where a great stock of any par-
ticular sort is wanted, the cuttings should be taken off just
below a joint, leaving two or three eyes at the base of the
shoot, which will again speedily produce new shoots, that can
be again removed in a similar manner.
When the plants are rooted, they may then be considered
established, and all that is necessary is, to shift them inte
May_| SOIL—ARRANGEMENT. 102
larger pots as they require; and gradually inure them to a
lower temperature, till they can endure the open air, which
will not be before the middle of May.
Propagation by Grafting.—Where only a few plants are
wanted, this is a very successful method, as an operation can
be conducted in the office or parlour window. The cutting
intended for the graft should have about three joints; when
obtained, select a good tuber without eyes from any common
sort, and with a sharp knife cut a slice from the upper part
of the root downward about two inches in length, and about
half an inch in depth, and then cut it off horizontally, leav-
ing a ledge whereon to rest the graft; next cut the graft
sloping to fit, and cut it so that an eye or joint may be at
the bottom of it to rest on the aforesaid ledge. After the
graft has been firmly tied, a piece of clay should be put
round it; pot the root in fine soil, in a pot that will bury the
graft half way in the mould, and cover it with a glass (a
large tumbler will do), and in two weeks it will have taken
root; the glass may then be removed, and the plant gradually
inured to the open air.
Soil.—As far as my observations enable me to judge, the
soil best adapted for the Dahlia is a sandy loam, not reten-
tive of moisture, and not too rich, as they will grow to leaves
and branches, producing few flowers, and even then imper-
fect: not too poor, as in such they will be very indifferent,
meagre in size and general appearance. Where soils are
rich and heavy, a portion of sand or gravel should be mixed
in the soil where they are planted: but if poor, incorporate
with the sand well-decomposed manure ; and when the plants
are planted, a stick in proportion to the plant should be put
with it, and at least eighteen inches in the ground, and not
less than two inches in diameter, to which they must be care-
fully tied as they grow, never allowing more than one stem
tc each plant; and the side branches should be cut off from
one to three feet from the ground, according to the height of
the plant. Lmperor de Maroc, the most favourite crimson
Dahlia, tipped with white, comes invariably true to its cha-
racter in sandy soil, whereas, in rich, heavy soil, it is fre-
quently only crimson The worst of all soils for the Dahlia
is a rich loam, retentive of moisture; in such they grow to
wood and foliage, producing few and very imperfect flowers.
The best disposition or arrangement in planting the
104 ARRANGEMENT. "May
Dahlia, I think, is in groups; each group should be com-
posed of a different section of colour: this affords a close
comparison, and gives greater diversity of landscape than
combining the colours; the tallest-growing sorts should be
carefully planted in the centre or at the back of each group.
The roots should be planted from three to four feet from
each other every way. But where they are planted in rows
along walks or avenues, two or three feet will be a sufficient
distance from plant to plant. Individual plants look ex-
tremely well if they are of a dwarf habit. To have a con-
tinued succession of bloom, there should be two plantings ;
the first about the fifteenth of the month, and the latest
about the end of June; it is the June planting that gene-
rally produces the finest flowers; this fact (though lately
discovered) is now well understood by some cultivators, and
is easily accounted for. When plants are forced and planted
early, they are in a flowering state much earlier, to be sure,
but they are overtaken with, perhaps, a hot dry summer,
which “blights” the buds, and are more subject to the dis-
ease called ‘‘curl;” the young leaves, as they expand, are per-
forated with numerous holes ; the margins become brownish,
as if burnt; they then become curled, placid, and the whole
plant unhealthy and dwarfish. The principal stem ceases to
grow, and numerous suckers and stems arise from below,
forming a dense bush. The flowers of such plant, as might
be expected, are small and irregular ; and however excellent
the variety may be, they yield nothing but disappointment
to the anxiously expectant cultivator. This disease is causcu
by an insect, Cymix Chloroterus, or green bug. It inhabits
the extremities of the Dahlia, and grows and feeds on the
under surface of the young leaves, and in its destruction is
aided by our frequently hot and arid months of July and
August. Hence, the reason that the late planting gives
most satisfaction, they are in these months in a rapid grow-
ing state, and if attacked outgrow the effects, and push at
once into bloom in the more moist and cooling month of
September. The only remedy that is known for the above
evil is, to look over the plants cautiously in the morning,
when the first attacks are perceptible, and pick off the in-
sects; it has to be approached with caution, as it instinctively
throws itself down among the leaves if disturbed; and if it
escapes it again climbs up, and commences its depredations
May.] ARRANGEMENT. 105
It is admitted that there are exceeding one thousaud distinct
named varieties now in cultivation, and it may be desirable
to some that a select list of the choicest named sorts now in
cultivation should be given: but such is the almost endless
multiplicity of kinds, and such the numerous additions every
year made, that in a few years those I may mention now as
being fine will then most probably be considered wholly
useless. However, for immediate profit and benefit, I re-
commend the following :—
PURE WHITE.
Antagonist, Blanche fleur,
Ariel, Mount Blanc.
WHITE EDGED MOTTLED, OR TIPPED.
Barmaid, Miss Vyse,
Gem, Princess Radzville,
Malvina, Star.
Miss Chaplin,
LILAC.
Admiral, Queen of Lilacs.
Joshua Longstreth, (Schmetz.) Victorine.
Queen of Beauty,
YELLOWS.
Cleopatra, Mrs. Seldon,
Crocus, Yellow Standard.
BUFF AND ORANGE, SHADED OR TIPPED.
Goliah, Seraph,
Hon. Mr. Herbert, Tison d’or.
Morning Star,
106 ARRANGEMENT. [ May.
ORANGE SCARLET.
Duke of Wellington, Sir Robert Peei.
Karl of Clarendon,
BRONZE PINK, MOTTLED OR SHADED.
Globe, Model.
General Faucher,
SCARLET.
Fulwood Scarlet, Shylock,
John Edward, Sir C. Napier.
CRIMSON.
Edmund Foster, Thames Bank Hero.
Sir F. Bathurst,
PURPLE.
Mr. Seldon, Summit of Perfection
Sir R. Whittingdon,
VERY DARK.
Admiral Stopford, Miss Spears,
Ambassador, Negro,
Hero of Stonehenge, Richard Cobden.
ORANGE YELLOW, TIPPED AND SHADED.
Eugenia, Madam Zhader.
FANCY DAHLIAS.
Flezantissima, lilac, tipped and edged white.
Elizabeth, lilac, purple edged and tipped.
Empereur de Maroc, dark maroon, tipped with cherry.
Forget-me-not, crimson, edged and tipped white.
Gasperine, dark puce, tipped white.
May. CHARACTER OF A FINE DAHLIA. 107
Yy
Highland Chief, orange scarlet, tipped white.
Nepaulese Chief, crimson, marbled and spotted.
Miss Ward, yellow, tipped white.
Miss Compton, red, tipped white.
Mrs. Hansard, yellow, frequently white tipped.
Mrs. Shaw Lefevre, crimson, tipped white.
Miss Weyland, pink, tipped white.
Mrs. Willis, crimson, tipped white.
Phaeton, peach colour, tipped white.
Pretty Polly, salmon, tipped white.
Princess Charlotte, pale purple, tipped white.
Queen of Beauties, white, marbled with lavender.
Rachael, crimson, tipped white.
Roi de Pointz, crimson, tipped white.
The above are the choicest in cultivation at the present
time, and for farther description in regard to colour, height,
and price, we beg to refer our readers to the periodical cata-
logues of our respectable nurserymen that are issued every
spring, and contain many other sorts of eminence; and not
a few equally desirable with the above, though the descrip-
tions of some that are annually received from England are
more tempting than the article. Whether there are some
sorts that do produce more perfect and beautiful flowers in
their humid climate than they do wien transferred to ours,
we cannot practically decide, but presume that it is the fact,
for we are confident, and every season does more fully con-
firm it, that the seedlings grown in this country from seed .
sowed here do grow better, and flower finer, than the gene-
rality of those imported ; and, to prevent us adopting inferior
sorts, and giving them dashing names, we subjoin the follow-
ing rules for judging :—
CHARACTER OF A FINE DAHLIA.
“The best judges distinguish Dahlias by the three criteria
of form, colour, and size.
“1. Form.—The front view of the blossom should be
perfectly circular, without notches or inequalities, caus.d by
the petals being pointed, and not, as they should be, rounded ;
smooth at the ¢lges, and slightly concave, but not so much
108 ANNUALS, HARDY AND TENDER [ May.
us to show any of the back. One of the most perfect
flowers, in this respect, is the Springfield Rival. When the
petals are pointed, notched, fringed, piped, quilled, concave,
convex, or flat, the perfectness of the circle is broken, and
one indispensable beauty in the eye of the florist is deficient.
“When the eye or disk is shown in the full-blown flower,
it is also a striking defect.
“The side view of a first-rate flower should be that of a
perfect hemisphere.
‘“‘ There is, perhaps, no example of this perfection of form
witheut some slight deficiency. The Countess of Liverpool
is one of the nearest to a perfect flower in this respect.
“2. Colour.—-This is looked upon by florists as an inferior
consideration to form, though it is usually the first to attract
the notice of common observers.
“Tn flowers of one colour, or selfs, the colour ought to be
bright and distinct, without any breaking or blotching.
When there are stripes, mottlings, shadings, or edgings,
these should be clear and uniformly marked, the colours dis-
tinct without clouding or running.
“3. Size—Although large flowers with superior form
and clear distinct colours are esteemed superior to small
flowers with the same properties, yet size alone is looked
upon by florists as nothing when form and colour are defec-
tive.”
Particular care should be taken with seeds, especially such
as are saved from fine sorts. If they are sown, about the
first of April, on a gentle hot-bed, or in a green-house in
plots, filled with light rich earth, cover the seeds about
three-cighths of an inch, and when they have made leaves,
pot them off singly into small pots, till time for planting out,
or where a quantity is grown, three plants may be put into
one pot, and thus planted, and when they bloom the bad can
be pulled up, leaving those of good character to stand for
farther trial; none should be kept but such as come up to
the above rules; and if they do not do so the first year, there
is little hope of their being more perfect the second.
ANNUALS, HARDY AND TENDER.
By the first of the month, finish sowing all hardy Annuals
and Biennials ; aud about the middle of the month all those
May. | ANEMONES AND RANUNCULUS. 1u9
that are tropical. The weather being now warm, they will
vegetate in a few days or weeks. Attend to thinning of those
that are too thick, giving gentle watering to such as are
weak in dry weather. Those that have been protected in
frames should be fully exposed therein night and day; take
the first opportunity of damp cloudy days to have them trans-
planted into the borders or beds, lifting them out of the frame
with as much earth as will adhere to their roots.
CARE OF HYACINTHS, TULIPS, ETC.
For the treatment of these, while in bloom, see last month.
The best time to take them out of the ground is about five
weeks after they are done flowering, or when the stem ap-
pears what may be termed half-decayed. The best method
to dry them is to place the roots in rows, with bulb to bulb,
the stems lying north and south, or east and west. Give the
bulbs a very thin covering of earth, merely to exclude the
sun, so that they may not dry too rapidly, being thereby
liable to become soft. When they have thoroughly dried in
this situation, which will be in eight or ten days in dry
weather (and if it rains, cover them with boards), take them
to an airy dry loft or shade, clearing off the fibres or stems,
and in a few weeks put them in close drawers, or cover them
with sand perfectly dry, until the time of planting, for whicn
see October.
It is not advisable to allow any of the bulbs of either
Hyacinths or Tulips to seed, as it retards their ripening and
weakens the roots, except where there are a few desired for
new varicties. The small off-sets must be carefully kept in
dry sand, or immediately planted.
ANEMONES AND RANUNCULUS.
These, while in bloom, should be carefully shaded from the
sun by hoops and thin canvass, or an erect temporary awning;
and as soon as they are done flowering, “hey must be fully
expences ans the waterings given up.
110 DOUBLE WALL-FLOWERS. [ May
TUBEROSES AND AMARYLLIS,
That are not planted, should now be done. For full di-
rections, see last month. In many seasons, any time be-
fore the twelfth is quite soon enough; but nothing ought to
be delayed when the season will permit it to be done. It is
necessary to have them properly labelled.
AURICULAS, POLYANTHUS, AND PRIMROSES
Will now be done flowering, but still must be carefully
kept in a cool, shady situation, and all decayed leaves cut
off as soon as they appear. Examine them carefully and
frequently, in case slugs of any description be preying upon
them. A dusting of hot lime will kill them, or they may be
otherwise destroyed. Some have recommended to repot and
slip those plants when done flowering, “ or they will contract
a destructive disease ;”’ which disease is a loss of verdure, ana
is induced by too much heat and drought, and a few other
causes from inattention; but if attended to as above, until
September, when they should be fresh potted, they will have
time to be sufficiently established before winter, which is the
most judicious time to take off slips, for two reasons, namely,
they do not want so much nursing through the most preca-
rious season of the year (summer) for these plants, and they
begin to grow, and will root afresh sooner.
DOUBLE WALL-FLOWERS.
As these are very seldom grown from seed, and are semi-
biennials, art has to be used to preserve or renew them.
About the end of this month, take shoots of this year about
three inches long, cutting them carefully off, and smoothing
the cut end with a sharp knife: from this, cut the lower
leaves off about one inch and a half, and then put it in the
ground; choose a very shady spot, mixing the soil with a
little sand and earth, or decayed leaves. Sprinkle them
three times a day until they have taken root, which will be
in a few weeks. Keep the cuttings about four inches apart.
June, July.] AUTUMN FLOWERING BULBS. Ie
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
We do not consider that it is essential every month to re-
peat the necessity of tying uy plants, cutting down weeds,
raking, &c., with many other similar observations. We have
already been full on these su jects, and expect these to be
remembered through the seasen. Particular care, however,
is required to carnations, pinks, or any plants that have heavy
heads and slender stems. If carnations are desired to flower
strongly, cut off all the buds except three, leaving the upper-
most and any other two of the largest. All climbing plants
should have timely support, and tied securely every week
while they are growing.
JUNE AND JULY.
HOLLAND BULBS.
THE lifting of these will be general in June. For direc-
tions, see May. It is not advisable to take up Jonquils,
Fritillaria, Crocus, and Iris. oftener than every alternate
year. Jonquils may stand three years. Anemones and
Ranunculus should be carefully lifted after their leaves begin
to fade. Do not expose them to the sun, but cover slightly
with earth or sand until thev are perfectly dry, when they
may be sifted out of the earth, and put into drawers carefully
labelled. Some recommend to soak these roots in soap-suds,
to destroy a worm with which they are frequently attacked.
We know not how far this may be carried, nor the good or
bad effects, never having practised it.
AUTUMN FLOWERING BULBS.
These are Amaryllis litea, now called Sternbérgia litea ;
A, Belladénna, now Belladénna purpurascens; Crocus satt-
vur, C. Pallasii C. serotinus, and C. nudiflorus and all the
112 CARNATIONS AND PINKS. [June, July.
species of Célchicum, with species of several other genera not
introduced into the country. They should all be lifted as
soon as the foliage is decayed, and kept only a few weeks out
of the ground, and then again replanted in fresh soil. The
economy of the genus Cdlchicum in regard to its bulbs,
flowers, and seeds, is altogether singular, and may be termed
an anomaly of nature. In producing the new bulbs or off-
sets, In a very curious manner the old one perishes. The
flowers, which arise with long slender tubes from the root, die
off in October, without leaving any external appearance of
seeds. These lie buried all the winter within the bulb; in
spring they throw up a fruit-stalk, and are ripe about the first
of June. How beautiful and admirable is this provision!
The plant blooming so late in the year would not have time
to mature its seeds before winter; and is, therefore, so con-
trived that it may be performed out of the reach of the usual
effects of frost, and they are brought above the surface when
perfected, and at a proper season for sowing.
CARNATIONS ANT PUNKS.
In order to make the former flower well, if the weather 1s
dry, give them frequent waterings at the root, and tie them
up neatly to their rods. The criterion of a fine Carnation
is—The stem strong and straight, from thirty to forty inches
high; the corolla three inches in diameter, consisting of
large, round, well-formed petals, but not so many as to crowd
it, nor so few as to make it appear thin or empty; the out-
side petals should rise above the calyx about half an inch,
and then turn off in a horizontal direction, to support the
interior petals, they forming nearly a hemispherical corolla.
The interior petals should decrease in size toward the centre,
all regularly disposed on every side ; they should have a small
degree of concavity at the lamina or broad end, the edges
perfectly entire. The calyx above one inch in length, with
strong broad points in a close and circular body. The colours
must be perfectly distinct, disposed in regular long stripes,
broadest at the edge of the lamina, and gradually becoming
narrower as they approach the unguis or base of the petal,
there terminating in a fine point. Those that contain two
colours upon a white ground are esteemed the finest.
June, July.] LAYING CARNATIONS AND PINKS. 11s
The criterion of a double pink.—The stem about twelve
inches, the calyx smaller, but similar to a carnaticn; the
flower two inches and a half in diameter; petals rose edges;
colour white and pure purple, or rich crimson; the nearer it
approaches to black the more is it esteemed; proportions
equal as in carnation. Those that are very tasteful with
these flowers are attentive to the manner of their opening.
Where the calyx is deficient in regular expansion, to display
the petals; that is, where there is a tendency to burst open
on one side more than on the other, the opposite side in two
or three different indentations should be slit a little, at
several times, witk the point of a small sharp knife, taking
care not to cut the petals, and about the centre of the calyx
tie a thread three or four times round to prevent any further
irregularity. Some florists and connoisseurs place cards on
them. This is done when the calyx is small. Take a piece
of thin pasteboard, about the size of a dollar, cut a small
aperture in its centre to admit the bud to pass through.
When on, tie it tight to the rod, to prevent the wind from
blowing it about; and when the flower is expanded, draw up
the card to about the middle of the calyx, and spread the
petals one over the other regularly upon it. When these
plants are in flower, their beauty may be prolonged by giving
them a little shade from the mid-day sun by an awning of
any simple description. Where they are in pots, they can
be removed to a cool shady situation (but not directly under
trees).
OF LAYING CARNATIONS AND PINKS.
This is a necessary and yearly operation to keep a supply
of plants, and likewise to have them always in perfection.
As the process of laying, though simple, may not be known
to all who are desirous of cultivating these plants, we will
give an outline of the mode of operation. Provide first a
quantity of small hooked twigs (pieces of Asparagus stems
are very suitable), about three inches long, for pegging the
layers down in the earth. Select the outward, strongest and
lowest shoots that are round the plant; trim off a few of the
under leaves, and shorten the top ones even with the knife,
and then applying it at a joint about the middle of the under
10*
114 OF BUDDING, ETC. [June, July.
side of the shoot, cut about half through in a slanting diree-
tion, making an upward slit toward the next joint, near an
inch in extent; and loosening the earth, make a small oblong
cavity one or two inches deep, putting a little fresh light
earth therein. Lay the stem pirt where the slit is made
into the earth, keeping the cut part open, and the head of
the layer upright one or two inches out of the earth; and in
that position peg down the layer with one of the hooked
twigs, and cover the inserted part to the depth of one inch
with some of the fresh earth, pressing it gently down. In
this manner proceed to lay all the proper shoots of each
plant. Keep the earth a little full around the plant, to
retain longer the water that may be applied. Give imme-
diately a moderate watering, with a rose watering-pot, and
in dry weather give light waterings every evening. Choose
a cloudy day for the above operation. In about two months
they will be well rooted.
OF BUDDING OR INOCULATION OF ROSES.
According to what we have previously hinted in regard
to having roses as standards, where such are desired, the
month of July or August is a proper time for the operation
of budding. The kinds to be taken for stocks should be of
a strong, free growth; such as Manitta, Maiden’s blush, R.
canina, and frequently the French Eglantine are taken. Be
provided with a proper budding-knife, which has a sharp,
thin blade, adapted to prepare the bud, with a tapering ivory
haft, made thin at the end, for raising the bark of the stock.
Yor tyings, use bass strings from Russian mats, which should
be soaked in water to make them more pliable. The height
of the stock or stem at which the bud is to be inserted, is to
be determined by the intended destination of the tree (as it
may be properly called). Choose a smooth part of the stem,
from one to three years old. Having marked the place,
prune away all the lateral shoots about and underneath it.
With the knife directed horizontally, make an incision about
half ar inch long in the bark of the stock, cutting to the
wood, but not deeper; then applying the point of the knife
to the middle of this line, make a perpendicular incision
under the first, extending from it between one and two inches.
June, July. | OF BUDDING, ETC. 115
Having a healthy shoot of the growth of this year provided
of the kind that is desired, begin at the lower end of this
shoot, cut away all the leaves, leaving the footstalk of each.
Being fixed on a promising bud, insert the knife about half
an inch above the eye, slanting it downward, and about half
through the shoot. Draw it out about an inch below the
eye, so as to bring away the bud unimpaired with the bark,
and part of the wood adhering to it; the wood now must be
carefully detached from the bark. To do this, insert the
point of the knife between the bark and wood at one end,
and, holding the bark tenderly, strip off the woody part,
which will readily part from the bark, if the shoot from
which the piece is taken has been properly imbued with
sap.* Look at the inner rind of the separated bark, to see
if that be entire; if there be a hole in it the eye of the bud
has been pulled away with the wood, rendering the bud use-
less, which throw away; if there be no hole, return to the
stock, and with the haft of the knife gently raise the bark
on each side of the perpendicular incision, opening the lips
wide enough to admit the prepared slip with the eye. If the
slip is longer than the upright incision in the stock, reduce
the largest end. Stock and bud being ready, keep the latter
in its natural position; introduce it between the bark and
wood of the stock, pushing it gently downward until it
reaches the bottom of the perpendicular incision. Let the
eye of the bud project through the centre of the lips; lay
the slip with the bud as smooth as possible, and press down
the raised bark of the stock. ‘he bud being deposited, bind
that part of the stock moderately tight with bass, beginning
a little below the incision, proceeding upward so as to keep
the eye uncovered, finishing above the incision. In a month
after the operation, examine whether the bud has unitea
with the stock. If it has succeeded, the bud will be full
and fresh; if not, it will be brown and contracted. When
it has taken, untie the bandage, that the bud may swell, and
in a few days afterwards cut the head of the stock off about
* We once budded three eyes of the white moss rose, after they
had, by mistake, been carried in the pocket of a coat three days.
"he shoot was soaked six hours in water, and two of the buds grew.
From this we infer that shoots, if properly wrapped up, may be
carried very great distances, and grow successfully.
116 EVERGREEN HEDGES. [August
six inches above the inoculation, and prevent all shoots from
growing by pinching them off. This will forward the bua,
which will push and ripen wood this season; but it must be
carefully tied, as it grows, to the remaining head of the stoci..
Some do not head down the stock until the following spring,
thereby not encouraging the bud to grow, which, if winter
sets in early, is the safest method.
OF WATERING.
If the season be dry, look over the lately planted shrubs.
and give them frequent copious waterings; and a few of the
finest annuals that are wanted to flower perfectly should be
attended to. We do confess that we used to be advocates
for giving plenty of water to the Dahlia, but the severe
drought of 1838 put our science to the test, and the result
was, that of about one hundred plants of our most choico
kinds, which we regularly watered three times a week, for
nine weeks, during which period we had not a drop of rain
the plants grew luxuriantly, but many of them never pro-
duced a perfect bloom; and those that had no attention
whatever paid to them, except a little manure or litter Jaic
on the surface over the roots, flowered almost as well as in our
more moist seasons. Hence we infer that an occasional water-
ing may be of service, but continued and repeated artificias
waterings are injurious.
AUGUST.
EVERGREEN HEDGES.
THESE always make two growths in the season, and ths:
best time to perform the operation of clipping or dressing
them is before the plants begin their second growth. Choose.
if possible, dull and cloudy days, as in such weather they
will not be so liable to get brown or bruised by shearing
The general practice in forming these is to have the sides
August. | BULBOUS ROOTS. 117
even and the top level, forming a right angle on each side.
However neat in appearance this may be considered, it
certainly is stiff and formal. We never approve of clipping
where it can be avoided, and, when adopted, nature ought to
be imitated. Therefore, have all hedges and edgings tapering
toward the top.
CARNATIONS AND PINKS,
If laid about the end of June, and have been properly
attended, will, by the end of this month, be well rotted and
fit for transplanting. Clear away the earth lightly, and cut
them clean off from the parent plant, nearer the stool than
the original slit. Raise them neatly out of the earth, with
as many of the root-fibres as possible; cut off the naked part
of the stem close to the fibrous coots, and trim away the
straggling leaves. Plant the finest sorts in four-inch pots,
and those more common, three plants in five-inch pots, in the
form of a triangle, which can be separated in spring to plant
in the garden. Any of the principal stools should be (if in
the ground) lifted and put into seven-inch pots to be preserved :
the others may be allowed to stand through the winter, cover-
ing them with a few dry leaves. Keep them in the shade a
few weeks, when they may be fully exposed. Give gentle and
frequent sprinklings of water until they have taken fresh root ;
or, if in want of pots, mark out a bed that can be covered with
a frame, preparing the soil therein properly. Plant them
from four to six inches apart. Shade them from the sun until
they begin to grow, giving sprinklings of water over the foliage
every evening.
BULBOUS ROOTS.
Look over the bulbs that are out of the ground, and exa-
mine those that require planting. Of Fritillaria there are
about twenty species, but few of them generally cultivated,
except F’. imperialis, Crown Imperial, and F. pérsica. Of
the former there are many very splendid varieties, such as
Crown upon crown, Lutea Maxima, Striped leaved, Double
flowered, &c. These will require planting, and ought not to
118 DAHLIAS. ; September
be lifted oftener than every third year. They require a deep,
rich, loamy soil, and, if in beds, plant them from five to
seven inches deep, and ose foot apart. They will grow
under the shade of trees, or in any situation where the soil is
adapted for them. No imbricated or scaly bulb ought to be
retained long out of the ground. When any of these are
lifted, and the young bulbs taken off, they should be planted
at once. See particularly, on bulbous roots in general, next
month.
SOWING SEEDS )F BULBOUS ROOTS.
Where any seeds of these are saved, with the intention of
sowing, let it be done this month. Procure boxes about
seven inches deep, and, in size, proportioned to the quantity
to be sown. Put five inches of light, sandy soil in the box,
level it smoothly, and sow the seeds separately and thickly ;
cover with half an inch of light sandy loam, with a portion
of earth from the woods. Keep the box or boxes im a shel-
tered situation, giving frequent sprinklings of water, to keep
the earth damp, which must be protected with a frame, or
covered with leaves during winter. The plants will appear
in the spring, and must be watered and kept in the shade.
When the leaves decay in June, put one inch more soil upon
them, and the second year they can be planted with the
small off-sets in the garden, and treated as other bulbs. They
must be carefully marked every year. Tulips require several
years of trial before their qualities are known ; and a poor
soil is best suited to produce their characters after the first
bloom.
SEPTEMBER.
OF DAHLIAS.
Sex that all these plants are supported with proper stakes,
rods, &., that the wind may uave no effect in breaking down
September. | GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 119
or otherwise destroying the flower-stems. Strictly observe
their respective heights and colours, that they may be duly
disposed and interspersed next year, if not done so this,
Attend particularly to the merits of those grown from seed.
GENERAL CARE OF PLANTS IN POTS.
All the flowers that are in pots, and intended to be kept in
frames during winter, should have a top-dressing and a gene-
ral preparation for their winter quarters, by tying up, Kc.
The carnation and pink layers that were lifted and potted
last month must be brought from the shade as soon as they
begin to grow; and those that are not lifted, have them done
forthwith, that they may be rooted afresh before the frost
sets in. All Wall-flowers and Stocks should be lifted about
the end of this month, and planted in five to seven-inch pots,
and treated as directed for carnation layers last month until
they begin to grow, when they must be fully exposed.
PREPARING BEDS AND BORDERS FOR BULBOUS ROOTS.
Bulbous roots of every character delight in deep free soil ;
consequently, wherever they are desired to be planted, duu
attention must be paid to put the soil in proper order, to
have them in perfection. Where there is a quantity in-
tended to be planted, to have them in beds is the genera:
and preferable method. These ought to be dug from eight-
een inches to two feet deep, at the bottom of which place
three or four inches of decayed manure. Where the soil
is poor, it should be enriched with well-decomposed manure
and earth from the woods, incorporating both well with the
soil, breaking it all fine. This being done, allow it to stand
until the middle of next month, which see for farther
directions.
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
Lie up carefully all the Chrysdnthemums, Tuberoses, &e.
Clear away the stems or haum of any decayed annuals or
120 OF PLANTING, ETC. [ October.
herbaceous plants, that nothing unsightly may appear. Pro-
pagate the Pansy by layers, &e. See page 95.
SOWING AND SAVING SEEDS.
.
About the end of this month or beginning of next is an
advisable period to sow seed of Delphiniwm Ajdcis flore
pléno, or Double Rocket Larkspur. This plant does not
flower in perfection unless sown in autumn, and grown a
little above ground before winter ; when a few leaves can be
lightly thrown among them, but not to cover them entirely,
or a few branches thickly laid on will answer as well. There
are several other annuals that bloom more early and much
finer by being sown about this period; such as Lrysimum,
Gilia, Coredpsis, Centauréa, Clarkia, Collinsia, &e. Be
attentive in collecting and saving all kinds of seeds, and have
them correctly named, with the year in which they were
rown.
The finer kinds of Pansy seeds that may have been collect-
ed during the season, should now be sown in a rich, free,
loamy soil, and in a situation where they can be covered dur-
ing winter with a temporary frame of boards; although they
are perfectly hardy, yet they will bloom earlier and more
euperb in the spring by having a slight protection
OCTOBER.
OF PLANTING VARIOUS BULBOUS AND TUBEROUS ROOTS.
From the first of October to the middle of November is
she best period for a general planting of bulbs, corms, and
ubers, which, if the ground has been prepared, as formerly
directed, will now be in readiness. We will give the names
and descriptions of a few of the leading sorts.
Anemone horténsis.—The cultivation of this tuber has
been attended with less satisfaction than any other floral
plant that has been introduced into this country. The gene-
October. | CROCUS—HYACINTHS. 121
ral failure may, in part, be attributed to the very inferior
roots annually sent from Holland, which rarely arrive in
good order; and those that do grow are very discouraging,
never making a tuber sufficient for another year’s planting.
Several hundred varieties are cultivated in England with great
care and complete success. ‘They are planted in a deep rich
soil, using a considerable portion of cow manure and decom-
posed leaves, covering the crowns of the roots about two
inches. The tubes are flat, but the eye from whence the
flower-stem arises is apparent on one of the sides, which must
be laid uppermost. During the severity of winter they should
be protected by a frame, and have a sprinkling of very dry
leaves strewn among them.
Crocus.—There are upwards cf one hundred varieties of
this vernal flower in cultivation, attended with universal suc-
cess. They delight in rich soils, and may either be planted
in beds or rows, at least two inches deep, and six inches from
row to row—they seldom require removal; every three or
four years will be sufficient. They can be purchased at from
seventy-five cents to two dollars per hundred, according to
quality. When they are done blooming, the foliage should
not be removed till perfectly decayed. ;
Fritilldria, or Crown Imperial. See last month.
Hyacinths.—The ground that was prepared for these last
month should all be divided into beds four feet wide, leaving
between each alleys of twenty inches. Skim off four or five
inches of the surface of the former into the latter, level the
bed smoothly with the rake, and mark it off in rows eight
inches apart. Plant the roots in the row eight inches asunder.
Thus they will be in squares, and by planting the different
colours, alternately, the bed will be beautifully diversified.
Cover each bulb with sand, when it can be procured. Put
about four inches of earth over the crowns, which will make
the beds from two to three inches higher than the alleys. The
beds before and after planting should be gently rounded from
the middle to each side, to let the rain pass off. Finish all
by raking evenly, straighten the edgings with the line, and
clear out the alleys or pathways.
We have grown Hyacinths in great perfection, when, in
addition to the above, we covered them with two to three
inches of cow manure. The Dutch florists name nearly two
thousand varieties of this flower, and have large fields de-
voted to their culture When the double varieties were first
1]
122 PONIAS. [ Octob.2
brought into notice, they sold at from one to two thousand
guilders a root (about from four to eight hundred dollars).
The finer kinds ean be purchased at from two to four dollars
per dozen.
Iris, or Fleur de luce-—The English and Parisian Irises
are coming into repute as showy garden-flowers. They will
grow in any well-prepared soil, and require to be planted in
the same manner as the tulip.
Jonguils.—Double and single. Plant these in the same
soil as 7'ulips, six inches apart, and cover three inches deep.
They do not flower so well the first year as in the second and
third, therefore should only be lifted every third year.
\— Lilium.—tThe family of Lilies are all splendid, very inte-
resting, and easy of culture, requiring merely a good deep
loamy soil—nowise inclined to moisture. They are all
hardy, except L. japonicum and L. longiflorum, which we
lift in November, and again plant them about the first of
March, keeping them through the winter in dry sand, in a
cellar free from frost. The hardy kinds, deserving most
attention, are L. Candidwm (the double variety of it is not
worth growing), L. Chalceddénicum and its varieties, L. Ti-
grinum, L. Céncolor, and L. Martagon ; these, with the
species indigenous to this country, are all very beautiful.
They should be planted from three to five inches deep, accord-
ing to the size of the bulb, and need not be taken up oftener
than once in every three or four years. None of the species
ean be transplanted after they have grown, without injuring
their flowering.
Narcissus require treatment similar to the Lily, except the
soil, which must be richer, and even then they do not bloom
so finely in a few years as they do when first imported ; but
they are cheap, and can annually be procured.
Peonias are all magnificent in flower, and, for display, are
not surpassed by any spring-blooming plant ; and we do cheer-
fully urge our readers to cultivate the choiee sorts, which can
scarcely be said to have a rival. Such are—
P. Moutén Bénksii, common double blush tree Paonia.
P. Moutén papaveracea, single white tree Pzeonia, with pur:
ple centre.
P. Moutdén rosea, large rose, semi-double tree Paonia
LT’. Moutdén odordta, sweet-scented, rose-coloured tree Feeonia.
P. Moutdéa albida pleno, double white tree Paonia.
Octover.] TULIPS. 123
The following are HERBACEOUS PonIAs :—
P. édulis albiflira, single white.
. €dulis whitleji, superb double white.
édulis Himet, very large double rose.
édulis frdgrans, double red, sweet-scented.
édulis féevesiana, Chinese double purple crimson
édulis Pottsti, double blush, very distinct.
odorata, double lilac.
mutabilis, double rose, changing to blush.
anemoneflora, double dark crimson, very distinct.
officinalis rubra, common double.
officinalis atropurpirea, very dark crimson.
. officinalis dlbicans, changeable white rose, or blush.
more ty tee stylet
There are several other splendid double varieties in out
evllections, which have not yet bloomed in this country.
There are also a few very choice single kinds that are desira-
ble for growing to raise new sorts from; for it is from the
single species that the Chinese have been so successful in
procuring the magnificent double varieties, which are so anx-
iously and perseveringly sought for. The seeds mature well
in this country, and should be sown as soon as ripe; they
will vegetate the following spring, and in three years may be
expected to bloom. The Peony will grow in any rich,
loamy soil, which should be at least fifteen inches deep. An
eastern situation or aspect is best adapted for them in this
,atitude ; but in the more Southern States, they will display
their flowers better on a northern aspect, or where they will
be shaded from the sun, but not under the dripping of trees.
The most suitable time for planting them is in September,
ctober, or November. Spring-planted roots never succeed
well the first year. Pzeony moutan and its varieties are all
of a shrubby nature, and will grow into large bushes, pro-
ducing from fifty to one hundred blooms of not less than
fifteen inches in circumference ; they can be propagated by
division of the root, or by layers.
Lulips.—As this flower will soon be a decided favourite
over this mighty country, we will give a minute description
of the soil most genial to it, at the same time remarking that
it will grow in almost any soil or situation, though less per-
fect. Many of the kinds are of the most splendid colours and
{24 ™ELEPS. { October
strong in growth, frequent'y growing over three feet in
height, with cups sutiicientiv large to satisfy the greatest
Bacchus. All writers agree that Tulip beds should be
‘“‘four feet wide ;” though I think three and a half will be
found more convenient, and, in length, according to the
number of roots to be planted. The soil should consist of
good fresh loam, mixed with a small portion of well-rotted
stable-manure, at least two years old. The whole should be
incorporated together four months previous to using. The
common soil should be taken owt sixteen inches deep, and
filled with the above compost. Raise the beds not less than
three inches above the paths at the outside, and about six or
eight inches in the middle: this convexity will assist in
throwing off the water in times of heavy and continued rains.
The bed thus formed, plant the bulbs in rows, lengthwise on
the bed, about six inches from bulb to bulb, and seven inches
from row to row. The beau may be marked out by straining
a line very tight, lengthwise on the bed, and beating it with
the back of the spade, leaving a lined groove along the ground.
Then, with a lath four feet long, let the bed be marked across
at six inches distance, so as to leave distinct impressions at
each crossing of the ground-1ines; for these will form tue
spots where the bulbs are to ve planted, by means of a dibber,
made larger than the largest bulb, and flattened at the end.
The holes are to be made tour inckes deep, and about half an
inch of sharp sand ought to pe dropped in each. The centre
line ought to be planted witn the tallest kinds, and the out-
side of the bed with the lowest. In severe frosts they should
be protected by boards or branches. Tulips have ever been
held in the highest estimation. As early as 1637 history
records one hundred and twenty Tulips being sold at public
auction for no less a sum than nine thousand guilders, equal to
thirty-six hundred dollars; and in England, at the present
day, a good collection is valued at five thousand dollars.
Florists generally divide them into tnree classes, viz., first,
Bybloemens, such as have a white ground, variegated with
purple, as Bienfait, or Washington, &c.; secondly, Bizarres,
having a yellow ground variegated with scarlet, purple, rose,
or velvet, as Trafalgar, Duc de Savoie, &e.; and, thirdly,
Roses with white ground, variegated with rose, scarlet, or
erimson, as La Tendresse, Rose mignonne, &e
a
October. | GRASS AND GRAVEL-WALKS. 125
The superb kinds are often very expensive; even fifty
pounds sterling is frequently given for a single bulb; and we
doubt much if these high-priced kinds are finer than Washing.
ton, Milo, or Trafalgar, which, with many others, can be pro-
eured for less than one dollar each.
PLANTING AND TRANSPLANTING.
This is a very proper period to plant the beautiful and
early flowering Pyrus japénica, now called Cydonia japo-
nica. The blossoms are of a rich searlet colour. It is the
earliest fowering shrub of the garden, and deciduous, though
said by some to be “an evergreen.’ The plant is bushy,
and well adapted for single plants in grass-plats, or forming
low ornamental hedges. ‘There is likewise CO. 7. dlba, a fine
blush variety of the same habit, and both are of the hardiest
nature.
Double Primroses, Polyanthus, Daisies, &.—Any of these
that were planted in shaded situations in spring, and have
been preserved through the summer, should have for their
farther protection a bed well sheltered from the north-west, in
which they should be planted four inches apart. Give them
a few sprinklings of water in the morning, and have a tempo-
rary frame of rough boards put together to place over them
during the severity of winter. The frame may be covered with
the same in place of glass, which must be kept over them
while they are in a frozen state.
Any other plants that are in the ground, which are intended
to be protected with frames through the winter, ought to be
immediately lifted and potted, and treated as directed for all
new-potted plants.
GRASS AND GRAVEL-WALKS.
The former should be trimly cut and well rolled this
month, that they may appear neat all winter.. Never allow
decayed leaves to lie any time upon them, as they are apt to
rot out the grass. The latter should be divested of every
weed, and receive a firm rolling. Olear them at all times of
leaves and other litter.. These, if on a declivity, and have
1 Be
126 DAHLIAS. [Novemoer.
not a firm substantial bottom, will be subject to be cut up
with every heavy rain’
January.] HOT-HOUSE—OF CLEANSING, ETC. 148
when, by easing itself from its bed, the fluid passes un er it,
and causes immediate death. If it is not thus irrit it
adheres so closely to the foliage that it will keep you at de-
fiance. The under or dark side of the leaves is its residence ;
and we have observed a plant in a house where there was only
light on one side, with the dark side literally covered, while
the light side was elean. So much for having houses with
plenty of light. The effects of this insect are of a corroding
nature, extracting all the juice from the leaf; and where they
have got to the extremity, the foliage is completely yellow.
and of a decayed appearance.
Cocus , or turtle insect. We have never ob.
served this insect arrive to any extent. It is the largest of
any known among us, and very like a turtle in miniature.
On lifting it from the wood, to which it generally adheres,
there appear to be hundreds of eggs under it, but fumigating
completely destroys the larvae. In our opinion, this turtle in-
sect is no other than the old female of the brown scaly insect,
which swells to a large size before depositing its eggs. We
have frequently observed the insect dead in this enlarged
state, and question if this be not the last stage of its transmi-
gration. The male insect is winged, and very active in its
movements.
Where bulbous roots, such as Hyacinths, Jonquils, vias,
Lachenallas, &c., are required to be early in flower, they may,
during this month, be put in the front of the hot-house and
watered freely till they bloom, when they may be taken to the
green-house or parlour.
Azaleas, Rhododendron Roses, and some other plants, do
admirably to force; and where there is a large stock, a few
should be h sught into early bloom with the heat of this de
partment.
OF CLEANSING PLANTS, HOUSE, ETC.
This subject ought to be kept constantly in view. How-
ever correctly everything else may be executed, without
that adorning beauty, cleanliness, all will appear only half
done. Therefore let all the dead leaves be picked off every
day, the dust and other litter swept out of the house, and,
when necessary, the house washed, which will be at leas!
144 HOT-HOUSE. [ February.
once a week. ‘That the foliage of the plants may always
appear fresh, syringe them every morning, when there is the
appearance of sun. At present, this will in a great measure
keep down the insects, and will prove a bane to the red
spider.
Tie up neatly with stakes and threads of Russia mat all
the straggling growing plants; let the stakes be proportion-
ate to the plants, and never longer, except they are climbing
sorts. Do not tie the branches in bundles, but singly and
neatly, imitating nature as much as possible. If any of the
plants are affected with the Cocus insect, let them be cleansed
according to the plan already mentioned, taking particular
care also in washing the stakes to which they had been pre-
viously tied, and burning all the old tyings, which contain
the larvee of the insect in many instances, especially of
Cocus hesperidus. It is premised, when any of these things
are done, that they will be well done, and not half doing,
and always doing. Cleanliness, in every respect, promotes a
pure air, which is congenial to vegetation, and will, with other
attentions, always assume a healthful and vigorous appearance
in the house.
FERRUARY
In the early part of this month, the weather generally is
very cold and changeable in the Middle States, and strict
attention, with the greatest caution, will require to be paid
to the management of the hot-house. Most of the tropical
plants commence an active state of vegetation; and, if
checked by temperature or otherwise, they will not recover
until midsummer. The thermometer may be kept two or
three degrees higher with fire heat than last month: the sun
will be more powerful, and this will, in a great degree, in-
crease the vigour of the plants. Air may be admitted when
the thermometer rises to 75° or 80°, not allowing it to rise
higher than the latter. In giving air, let it be done by the
top sashes. It is improper to give it in any way to cause a
vurrent, for the external air is yet very cold, although the
february.] | HOT-HOUSE—OF INSECTS, ETC. 145
sun is more powerful. An inch or two on a tew of the sashes,
as has been previously observed, will be effectual in keeping
the temperature low enough.
With regard to firing, what was said last month may suffice
for this. Always recollect that it is more preferable to keep
out the cold than to put it out. It will frequently happen in
the time of intense frost that the weather is dull. In such
cases, fire in a small degree is requisite ali day.
Heavy snows ought never to be allowed to remain on the
shutters while they are on the house. If the snow lies on the
sashes one day, the internal heat will dissolve some of it;
night coming on, will freeze it to the wood-work, when it will
become a solid mass, and frequently cannot be separated with-
out much damage. If allowed to remain on for two days, the
plants are very much weakened and the foliage discoloured.
Therefore, let the snow be cleared off instantly, that no incon-
venience may take place.
It will be observed that plants absorb more water this month
than last. The quantity given will require to be increased,
according to the increase of vegetation and the advancement
of the season; but never give it until the soil begins to dry,
and then in such proportion as will reach the bottom of the
pot. The best time to water is after the sun has got on the
house in the morning, observing all the directions given in
January.
-
OF INSEOTS, ETC.
Perhaps sufficient observations were given under this head
last month; but the importance of keeping the disagreeable
visiters out of the house constrains us to make a few more
. remarks. Man cannot be too frequently guarded against his
foes, more especially when they are summoning all their forces,
and no profession has more than that of the Horticulturist.
Let a strict examination be made about the end of the month
for the red spider ; they will be in operation some wecks before
their depredations are observed on the foliage. The under side
of the leaf is their resort in the first instance, and on such
lants as have been already mentioned.
Observe daily the young shoots, in case the green fly be-
13
146 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING PLANTS. [[eorwiry.
comes numerous. They give the foliage a very disagreeable
appearance, and it is too often intolerable, before their career
is arrested. It also takes a stronger fumigation, which has fre-
quently to be repeated the following day to the same degree
much to the injury of many of the plants, and adding to the
disagreeableness of the continued vapour in the house.
OF REPOTTING PLANTS.
About the end of the month, some of the plants of Cur-
cima Amémum Kempféria, Alpina, Phrynium, Canna,
Zingiber, Hedychium, and others that are on the dry shelf,
will be offering to grow. Let them be taken out of their pots,
some of their weakest shoots or tubers taken off, and the
strong ones repotted: give gentle waterings until they grow
freely, then give in abundance. (Soil No. 17.)
Dionea muscipula, or Venus’s fly-trap, grows best in the
hot-house, and will, about the end of the month, stand in
need of being repotted. This plant is very seldom grown in
any degree of perfection, having been always considered a
delicate plant in collections. Take it out of the pot just be-
fore beginning to grow afresh, and divested of all the soil,
leaving only a few of the young roots (it is a bulb, and wil)
receive no injury by so doing), put it in new soil; wher
potted, place the pot ina saucer with one inch of water in it,
giving a fresh supply every other day; this being repeated
every year, it will grow, flower, and seed in perfection. (Soil
No. 5.)
Gesnérias, if in small pots, give larger as they advance in
growth. This genus requires to have plenty of pot-room to
make them flower well. G. oblongata, G. Zebrina, and G.
Sellowii ought to have a situation in every hot-house. They
are remarkable for their many brilliant crimson flowers, and
continne in flower for a length of time. When the bulbs
.egin to push, shake them out of the earth, and repot them
nto smaller pots; and, as soon as the roots reach the side of
the earth, which will be in about one month, put them in
iarger pots, and continue to do so until flowering, which will
be about the first of June, observing always to keep the ball
of earth entire. G. tubiflora, G. magnifica, G. lutea, and
some others, are all well worth attention. (Soil No. 11.)
ee
February. | HOT-HOUSE—OF CLEANSING, ETC. 147
Gloridsas must be repotted in the beginning of this month;
G. supérba is the most beautiful and curious. The crown
of the roots ought to be planted one and a half inch deep,
taking care not to break them. Do not water much until
they begin to grow. The earth must not have much water.
As the plants grow, they will require a more liberal supply ;
yet it is necessary, at all times, to be moderate in giving it.
If well treated, the superb flowers will appear in June or
July. (Soil No. 12.)
Gloxinias are beautiful herbaceous plants, with large showy
flowers, requiring soil and treatment similar to (Gesneria).
G. specidsa, dark blue, G. specidsa-pdllida, pale lilac; G.
candida, pure white, G. grandifidra, very large light blue,
rubra, red; Cerina, pink and white; maxima, lilac and
white, Lennigii, rose and white; Maria Van Houttii, white,
scarlet throat; Victoria regina, pale blue, white throat; and
Teuclerii, rose, white and violet, are the finest, although seve-
ral of the other species are very interesting.
OF CLEANSING PLANTS, HOUSE, ETC.
With regard to cleaning the plants, sprinkling or syring-
ing is at all times, to a greater or less degree, necessary.
The plants will, in this compartment, be in their first stage
of growth, and, if dust or fouiness be permitted to lodge on
their foliage, the pores will be obstructed, the plants will be-
come unhealthy, and the growth of insects increased.
Let all moss, litter, decayed leaves or weeds, be cleared
out of the house, the earth in the pots stirred up with a round
pointed stick, and fresh earth given where required, that the
air may operate therein freely.
The house ought always to be sprinkled before being
swept, to prevent the dust rising.
Attend to the bulbous rocts as directed last month, such
as Hyacinths, Narcissus, &c.
148 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ©£TC. [ March
MARCH.
Ir this department has been regularly attended to, the
plants will be in a fresh healthy state. Where there is any
sickly appearance, heat has been deficient, or insects of a de-
structive character are preying upon the plants. Too much
water at the root frequently causes the foliage to become
yellow. Regular syringing must be continued in the morn-
ing, and it is highly necessary that the water that is used
should be of the same temperature as the house; and at all
times, whatever water is given to the roots, the same must
be observed. For airing, see last month, observing, as the
season advances, to increase the quantity.
Continue to fumigate when any of the Green-fly appears
(see January for directions), and where there are any of the
plants infected with the white scaly insect, clean them as
there directed. If overlooked for a few months, they will
be increased tenfold. Very frequently, where there are only
a few, they are neglected until the plant is overrun with them,
and then it may be said it is impossible to dislodge them
entirely. Clear off all decayed leaves from the plants which
will have made fresh shoots, for the decayed leaves very much
disfigure the whole collection. We would not have repeated
this observation if it was not an essential point, and one
which is so frequently neglected.
OF REPOTTING PLANTS.
Many of the young plants that are growing freely, and
where they may be desired to grow to a large size, should be
frequently repotted to encourage their growth. Gcsnéria,
Gloxinia, and others previously mentioned, must have larger
pots, as they require it. Flowering bulbs of Amaryllis may
be brought into the heat to make them bloom early ; before
they begin to grow, divest them of the old soil, and put them
into fresh : this is particularly necessary, when the bulbs are
already in large pots. By thus renewing the soil, the pots
can be used much smaller: they require plenty of drainage in
the pot, and agree best with soil No. 12.
April.] HOT-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 149
Where plants of the dwarf Musas are intended to be grown
for fruiting, they must have particular attention in repotting
as they grow ; about the first of the month will be a proper
time to begin : copious waterings are daily required when they
are in a growing state. Their soil is No. 12, with one portion
more manure. For farther detail, see May.
APRIL.
WuHeEreE the hot-house has been properly conducted, the
plants generally will have a vigorous and healthful aspect.
An error frequently arises in the conducting of these depart-
ments, by inexperienced operators, being ambitious of out-
stripping their competitors. They keep the house in a very
high temperature, and admit little or no air. Where such a
mode has «been pursued, the plants will have got over their
first growth, and the foliage looks yellow and decaying; thus
throwing the plants into a state of inactivity, when nature
herself commences her most active movements. The tempera-
ture should not be under 55° in the night, nor much above
75° during the day, without admitting a little air by the top-
lights. It will not do yet to give air by the front sashes, the
wind being cool, and a current in the house would be hurtful.
The sun is not so powerful, but the heat can be kept down by
the air given from above.
Hot-house or tropical plants will not materially suffer with
100° of sun heat, provided they are not very near the glass;
but such an extreme would be injurious to practise.
REPOTTING.
Where there is a general assortment of the Cactz tribe,
and kept in this department, now is the proper period to give
them a general repotting. Of all the tropical floral produc-
tions, there is not a family more curious, grotesque, interest~
ing, and beautiful than this; and, what still more enhances
their real value, they are in this country of the easiest cul-
Te*
150 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [ May.
ture; it is with pleasure that we recommend a few of the
grand and the novel, which are faithfully deseribed in the
general list given next month. The bottom of every pot
must be covered with an inch of pot-shreds, or rough gravel
for drainage.
MAY.
Very few directions for this department remain to be given ;
except for shifting plants, aud a few observations on those
that are most desirable for the hot-house ; which we will do in
this month, considering May and June the best months of the
year for that operation. :
The days and nights will be very mild by this time, and
mie sashes in every favourable day should be opened, both in
front and top, so that the plants may be inured to the open
air, which they will be exposed to by the end of the month.
Leave in the beginning of the month the top sashes a little
open every mild night, and gradually, as the heat increases,
leave the front sashes and doors open. Continue to syringe
them at least every alternate night, and, if possible, every
night; and give them all, according to their respective wants,
liberal supplies of water every day. Absorption among hot-
house plants is as great during this month as in any period of
the year.
OF REPOTTING PLANTS, ETC.
It is our candid opinion that this and next month are the
best periods for shifting or repotting all or most of hot-house
plants; the end of August being the time always adopted
around Philadelphia for that operation (and then they are
done indiscriminately). We will assign a few reasons for our
practice.
First, that it is not congenial to the nature of these plants
to have their roots surrounded with fresh soil when they are
becoming inactive ; secondly, that there is not a sufficiency
May.) HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. lol
of heat naturally to quicken them to an active state when
they are encouraged; and, thirdly, being thus in new soil
while dormant, they have a yellow and sickly aspect until
they begin to grow; and the foliage, thus deprived of its
natural vigour, will not appear so healthful again: whereas,
if they are shifted or repotted in this or next month, at
which season they are between two stages of growth, they
immediately, on receiving fresh assistance, and by the increas-
ing heat of the summer, make new growths, are perfectly
ripened before the approach of winter, and never lose that
vernal appearance they have attained. These are our reasons,
acquired from a close practice and observation, and are not
influenced by the doings of others which are so much aside.
No practical operator especially, nor, in fact, any individual,
ought to be governed by custom in regard to the treatment
of plants, without having any idea as to why and wherefore,
founded on the principles of nature, and governed by her un-
erring results.
As many are desirous of having a knowledge of plants
before they order them, and likewise which are the finest
flowerers and their general character, especially those who
are at a great distance, and seldom have the privilege of
seeing what iv most desirable, our descriptions will be limit-
ed, but stil! ill convey some accurate idea of the article
described.
Acacias --Several of these are desirable in the hot-house
for the grandeur of their foliage, beauty of flower, and a few
of them as specimens of valuable medicinal plants. A.
Housténi, now Annesléia Housténi, is one of the most
magnificent of the Mimosa tribe, blooming from August to
November in large terminal spikes of a crimson colour,
stamens very long and beautiful, leaves bipinnated in pairs.
A. grandifiéra, likewise given to Annesléia, and similar to
the former in colour, has very large compound bipinnate
leaves, with from twenty to forty pairs. A. Catéchu, flowers
yellow, wood spiny, leaves bipinnated, about ten pairs. The
inner wood of this tree is of a brown colour, from which the
Oatéchu used in medicine is prepared. It is disputed
whether A. véra or A. ardbica produces the gum Arabic.
We are inclined to think it is the latter, which grows prin-
cipally on the Atlas mountains. The gum exudes spon-
taneously from the bavk of the tree in a soft half fluid state.
152 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [ May.
There are many others of this genus belonging to the hot-
house, but being shy in flowering, are not generally esteemed.
Most of the flowers have the appearance of yellow balls of
down, and are hermaphrodite. The pots should all be well
drained. (Soil No. 1.)*
Aischynanthus, about tour species, among which &. grandi-
florus, 44. Boschianus, dark velyet purple and bright scarlet,
and 4. parasiticus are very deserving of culture; they have
thick fleshy foliage, are of slender growth, producing orange-
coloured tubular. flowers in clusters, and require treatment
similar to the wax-plant. (Soil No. 2.)
Ardisias, about eighteen species. Plants highly esteemed
for the beauty of their foliage, flowers, and berries. The
most popular in our collections is A. crenuldta. It has rose-
coloured star-like flowers, in terminal panicles, and produces
beautiful small red berries, which continue until other ber-
ries are produced the following year; and frequently there
may be seen on one plant the berries of three successive
years, thus being a very ornamental plant and very desira-
ble. It is vulgarly called the dwarf ever-bearing cherry. It
will keep in a good green-house, but not grow freely. A. so-
landcea has large oblong leaves, narrowed at each end, and
bears purple berries; A. élegans has entire, oblong, shining
leaves; A. umbellata, once A. littordlis, is also a fine plant
for an abundance of flower and beauty of foliage. The
flowers are pink, in large decompound panicles.
Allamanda, a family of half climbing plants, with large
chrome-yellow blossoms, requiring plenty of pot-room and
good culture to flower well. A. cathdrtica, A. neriifotia, and
A. schottii, we consider the finest. (Use soil No. 13.)
Aphalandra cristata, a new plant with a brilliant spike of
flowers about six inches long crowning the plant. (Use soil
No. 9.)
Aréca, Cabbage-tree, ten species. They are a kind of
palms, with large pinnated leaves, or properly fronds. In
their indigenous state they are from six to forty feet high,
but in the hot-house they seldom exceed twenty feet. A.
cdtechu is used in medicine. A. olerdcea is cultivated exten-
pively in the West Indies, and the tender part of the top
* These numbers refer to the table of soils at the end of tha
work.
May. | HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. 153
is eaten by the natives. A. montand is most frequent in
collections There is no particular beauty in the flowers.
They are all easily grown, if plenty of heat be given. (Soil
No. 12.)
Aristoléchias, Birth-wort. There are several of these be-
longing to the hot-house, but none of them deserving par-
ticular observation, except A. labidsa, A. gigas, and A. bra-
siliénsis. The leaves are reniform, roundish, cordate, and
amplexicaule ; the flower or corolla is of a curious construc-
tion, being incurved, and at the base swelled or saccate, with
a large lip, and all beautifully spotted ; colour greenish brown.
They are climbing plants, and require a strong heat. (Soil
No. 9.)
Astrapeas, three species. A. Wallichii is a celebrated
plant in Europe, and is frequently met with in our collec:
tions. It has a profusion of scarlet umbellated flowers, with
an involucre; has twenty-five stamens united into a tube,
bearing the corolla with five petals; leaves roundish, cordate,
acuminate, very large, with persistent, ovate wavy stipules.
The plant is of easy culture, and grows freely, wood very
strong. (Soil No. 12.)
Bambisas, Bamboo-cane, two species. Plants of very
strong growth, and are used in the East Indies, where they
are indigenous, for every purpose in the construction of huts,
for furniture both domestic and rural, for fences, boats, boxes,
paper, &c. It is frequently used as pipes to convey water.
The species thus useful is B. arwndindcea, which grows to
a great height. We do not mention it as interesting in
beauty, but as a valuable plant for the many useful purposes
to which it is applied. It requires to be kept wet. (Soil
No. 15.)
Banistérias, a genus of about fourteen climbing evergreen
plants. Three of them are esteemed, B. fulgens, yellow
flowers in racemose spikes, leaves subovate and downy be-
neath. B. chrisophylla has beautiful foliage, as if covered
with a shining gold-coloured dust ; leaves large, oblong, acute.
B. spléndens, flowers in spikes of a yellow colour; foliage
large and silvery-like ; the pots should be well drained. (Soil
No. 9.)
Beauméntias are strong-growing, climling plants, with
large foliage. B. grandiflora is said to have beautiful large
white flowers approaching the Oleander. (Soil No. 12 )
lot HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. — [May,
Bletias, a genus of about eight species, all beautiful flow-
ering plants. B. Tankervillie is most superb, a small plant,
now (Jan). in bloom, has upward of fifty full-blown flowers,
besides many buds—they are brown, white, and purple, and
about two inches in diameter. When out of flower, and the
roots become dormant, place the pots in a shady situation ;
allow the soil to become dry, until the roots begin to grow :
as soon as this is observed, repot the plants and expose them
fully to the sun, giving plenty of water while growing. B.
Shépherdii is a fine pink, and requires similar treatment.
(Soil No. 13.)
Bignonia, a very beautiful family of climbing plants, some
of them gorgeously covered with bloom half of the year. B.
venustd has large clusters of bright orange-coloured flowers in
great profusion from December to May. JB. picta, violet and
hilac-coloured striped flowers. B. chamberlyana, yellow
flowers with rich foliage.
They should be planted into large pots or tubs, or if prac-
ticable, into the ground, in the interior of the house, giving
them plenty of space to climb, using soil No. 9.
Brunfélsias, very fine, free-flowering plants, with white,
yellowish, or purple flowers. B. grandiflora blooms freely,
and is finely scented—a plant before me now (28th of Jan).
only one foot high, has six full expanded flowers upon it, each
fully two inches in diameter. (Soil No. 9.)
Buonapdrtea jiuncea, a very curious low-growing plant,
with long narrow, recurved, round leaves; with spikes of
small green flowers. There does appear to be three distinct
pho in cultivation, but are rarely attainable. (Soil No.
12.
Biddlea madagascartensis blooms profusely during winter
in spikes of orange-coloured flowers, of a kind of honey fra-
rance—the plant is strong-growing, and of the easiest culture.
(Soil No. 11.)
_Calathéa zebrina, frequently known as mardnta zebrina ;
it is a plant unique in appearance, having large elongated
ovate leaves, beautifully striped with green and dark pur-
ple, and called the Zebra plant. It has light blue flowers
in ovate spikes, about the size of large pine cones. It is
an herbaceous plant; but in the warmest part of the hot-
house retains its splendid foliage; requires a very liberal
May.] HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. 155
supply of water, and ought to be in every collection. (Soil
No. 11.)
Cannas, about thirty species, several of them deserving
cultivation both for flower and foliage; they are principally
aatives of the West Indies. The finest are C. gigantea, has
farge leaves and orange flowers; ©. limbadta, flowers scarlet
and yellow; C. discolor, has large cordate, acuminate leaves
of a erimson colour, C. iridiflora, has large crimson flowers.
They all, while in a growing state, require a liberal supply of
water, and being herbaceous plants, watering ought to be
given up about the first of November, and renewed in Febru-
ary, thus giving them a cessation which they require to flower
freely ; but when water is constantly given, which is the gene-
ral plan in our collections, they continue to push weak shoots
and few flowers. They also do very well by planting them as
ornamental plants in the garden during summer, where they
bloom profusely, and their large roots can be placed in the cel-
lar all winter, where they will be free from frost. (Soil No.
12.)
Cactus.—This extensive genus is interesting, and varied
in character and habit; it is now divided into seven distinct
genera, according to their natural appearance and disposition.
We will describe a few of each genus, none of which going
under the name of Cactus, we will give them the six follow-
ing, premising that the time is not far distant when this
family will be successfully cultivated in every parlour-window,
and the whole tribe will be sought for with more avidity than
any other class of plants that have ever been brought to
notice, not even excepting the Jose. They require a dry
heat, and wit grow either in town or country, and are com-
pletely adapted ror the denizen amateur, and will afford more
beauty and interesving display than can be imagined until
witnessed.
Mamillarias, about seventy species, and are those which
are covered with roundish pearded tubercles, and with small
red and white flowers. M. cocctnea, M. simplex, M. pusilla,
VM. cénica, M. stellata, and M. acanthiphlegma, are good
species, and will do well with water once a week during sum-
mer. (Soil No. 15.) m
Melocdctus, seven species, and are those that are roundish
with deep and many angles, with spines in clusters on the
top of the angle. M. commimis is the Turk’s cap, named
156 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPCLTING, ETC. [May
from having an ovate conate crown upon the top, from which
proceed the small red flowers. MM macrdnthus has large
spines; JL pyramiddlis is a conical growing species. These
require the same treatment as the fast. (Soil No. 15.)
Echinocdctus, a great number of species; are those that
have many deep angles, and have a remarkable swelling with
each parcel of spines; H. gibbdésus, E. crispatus, LH. rectirvus,
E.. rodanthia, and E. scopa, are curious in appearance, with
small white and purple flowers. These three genera in most
collections are not well known specifically, but it is easy to
discriminate with which genus they are connected. (Soil
No. 15.)
Céreus.—This is the most magnificent genus with regard
to the magnitude and beauty of the flowers, but not so
closely allied in character. It takes in all those of a trail-
ing or erect growing habit, having spines in clusters, solitary,
or spineless. O. senilis is the celebrated monkey cactus. C.
peruvidnus and C. heptagonus grow very erect, and to the
height of thirty or forty feet in Peru and Mexico, where »
they plant them close together as fences, and they are in a
few years impenetrable. C. flagelliformis is a well-known
creeping flowering species, has ten angles; will keep in a good
green-house, and produce in May and June a great number
of blooms. ‘The petals are of a fine pink and red colour; the
tube of the flower is long, and will stand a few days in per-
fection, when others come out successively for the space of
‘two months, and during their continuance make a brilliant
appearance. ©. grandiflorus is the celebrated ‘ Night-
blooming Cereus.” The flowers are very large, beautiful
and sweet-scented. They begin to open about sundow., and
are fully expanded about eleven o'clock. The corolla, or
rather calyx, is from seven to ten inches in diameter, the
outside of which is a brown, and the inside a fine straw yel-
low colour; the petals are of the purest white, with the stameus
surrounding the stile in the centre of the flower, which add
to its lustre, and make it appear like a bright star. Its scent
is agreeable, and perfumes the air to a considerable distance ;
but these beauties are of momentary duration. By sunrise
they fade, and hang down quite decayed, and never open
again.* One of these ought to be in every collection, and,
* They may be preserved if cut off when in perfection, and put in
May.) HOT-HOUSE—OF RKEPOTTING, ETC. 157
if trained up a naked wall, wil! not occupy much room, and
grow and flower profusely. (©. Méllisoni and C. Scottii are
nearly alike, and have beautiful scarlet flowers: it has been
gratuitously (to say the least of it) called “The Scarlet Night:
blooming Cereus.’ C. speciosissimus has most beautiful
large flowers, about six inches in diameter; the outside petals
are a bright scarlet, those of the inside a fine light purple.
One flower lasts a few days, and a large plant will produce
every year from ten to fifty flowers, and blooming from May
to August. ( Maynardii has very large orange-scarlet
flowers, about nine inches in diameter, blooming during the
day. C. Fielderii is of a brilliant bluish violet colour, even
more of the peculiarly blue tints so greatly admired in spe-
ciosissimus. C. trianguldris has the largest flower of the
Cactew family ; the bloom is of a cream colour, and about one
foot in diameter. In its indigenous state it produces a fine
fruit called ‘Strawberry Pear,” and is much esteemed in the
West Indies as being slightly acid, and, at the same time,
sweet, pleasant, and cooling.
Epiphyllums are those species of the Cacteze family which
have flat shoots, or leaves without spines; from the edges
of those leaves the flowers are produced. They are exten-
sively cultivated for their profusion of bloom, and are fre-
quentlv grafted on Cereus trianguldris and Peréskia, which
greatly promotes their growth, and prevents them from so
easily damping off by over-watering. The original species
are LH. speciosum, pink; EL. phylanthoides or Hoékerii, white ;
E. aldtum, white; FE. truncdtum, scarlet; flowers tubular,
from two to three inches in diameter: The plant is of a very
dwarf growth, and much branched; when in bloom, it is
quite a picture, and rendered more beautiful when grafted.
There are three varieties of truncdtum, differing from it in
colour, or rather shades of colour: Altenstéinii, rosy red;
violacea, very beautiful violet and white; rubens, bright red.
E. Ackermania has a magnificent large crimson flower. Be-
sides these, there are many superb hybrid varieties, vying
with any of the originals. Among them are the following:
E. crinitum, pale yellow crimson quite new, of fine habit;
spirits of wine, in a glass vase, made air tight. A plant flowered in
our collection in May, 1830, at 12 o’clock at noon—the only instance
of the kind we ever heard of.
14
158 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [May
EH. fulgens, large violet crimson firmly formed flowers, very
desirable; H. Grahamit, very distinct, of a brilliant rose
colour; LE. speciosa major, large delicate rose. 2. Hibbertii,
E. Hoodii, BE. Boydii, BH. Devdéuxti, E. quillardittii, EF.
Féastii, E. Vandesii, HE. Mayfly, E. elegantissima, and L£.
Naipéerti, and no doubt many other varieties and subva-
rieties, will be continually making their appearance. All
the Epiphyllum tribe require a very rich open soil, not of too
sandy a nature, as they thereby grow to wood, and bloom but
sparingly—give plenty of drainage. (Soil No. 18.)
Opuntias, upwards of fifty species, and are those whose
branches are in thick joints, flat, oblong, or ovate; spines
solitary or in clusters. Some of the plants are very desirable
for their singular appearance, and some of them, particularly
O. cochinillifera, are valuable for feeding the Cochineal
insect. O. microddsys, O. ferdx, O. lacte-spina, O. sericed,
and some others, are beautiful plants, and will grow in any
kind of soil, but No. 2 will suit them best.
Peréskias.—About four species, and those that are of a
shrubby nature, producing leaves: P. aculedta bears a fruit
called, ‘‘ Barbadoes gooseberry.” The flowers are very small
and simple, spines about half an inch long, leaves fleshy and
elliptical. (Soil No. 2.)
The whole of the plants in the family of Cactew require
very little water in winter, and delight in a dry, warm situa-
tion. They do not agree with very frequent repotting ; once
a year to young plants, and in two or three to those that are
established, with the exception of the large, free-flowering
species, which should be repotted once in two years, and never
be allowed to shrink for want of moisture.
The operation of grafting is very simple, merely requir-
ing an incision to be made, and fitting in it a fresh cutting
of another kind, holding the cutting stationary in the inci-
sion half a minute, till the juices of the two adhere together,
when it may be said the union is effected, and, in a few
weeks, the new branches will grow freely. We have seen
the Mammillaria tribe growing neatly upon the triangularis,
and other species of the cereus.
Ceropégia elegans is the only species of any merit; itis a
thin-growing climbing plant, producing a great profusion of
_ very curious flowers of a greenish colour, spotted with brown ;
May.] HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. 159 ©
the interior and tips of the corolla are set with hairs—it is of
very easy culture. (Soil No. 7.)
Caryophyllus aromdticus is the clove tree of commerce,
The whole plant is aromatic, and closely allied to Myrius; the
flowers are in loose panicles, the leaves oblong, acuminate,
entire. It is a fine evergreen. Pots must be well drained.
(Soil No. 9.)
Centradenia. Unique plants, with reddish purple foliage,
they produce a profusion of delicate pink flowers; C. rosea
and C. florabunda are the most esteemed; they are of
dwarf habit and of the easiest culture. (Use Soil No. 2.)
Cérberas.—About twelve species of strong-growing trees,
full of poisonous juice. C. thevétia is an elegant plant,
with acuminate leaves, and large, nodding, yellow, solitary,
fragrant flowers, proceeding from the axil; C. ahowai, pro-
duces a nut which is deadly poison. C. oddllam, once C.
manghas, has large star-like flowers, white, shaded with red.
They are principally East India plants, and require great heat.
(Soil No. 17.)
Clerodéndrum.—This genus contains some very beautiful
and fragrant plants. (C. frdgrans floré pléno has a very
beautiful head of double white sweet-scented flowers, and
does very well as a green-house plant. (. sguamdtum has
very showy scarlet flowers. C-. speciosissimum, the plant so
glaringly figured in some of the English periodicals, is the
same as C. squamdtum, a plant which has been grown in this
vicinity fifteen or twenty years. (Soil No. 2.)
Cofféa Ardbica.—lIt produces the celebrated coffee, and is
a plant universally known in our collections, and of easy cul-
ture. The leaves are opposite, oblong, wavy and shining, the
flowers white, of a grateful odour, but of short duration.
(Soil No. 17.)
Combrétums.—Nine species of beautiful flowering climb-
ing plants, standing in very high estimation. The leaves
of the principal part of them are ovate, acute, flowers small,
but on large branches, the flowers all coming out on one
side of the branch. They have a magnificent effect. C.
éleguns, red; C. formésum, red and yellow; C. pulchéllum,
scarlet; C. comdsum, have crimson flowers in tufts; C. pur-
pureum is the most splendid of the genus. It yas first
cultivated in 1818, and so much admired that the whole of
the species, as soon as iutroduced, was extravagantly bought
i « ,
160 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOITING, ETC. [ Mak.
up; and none of them has retained their character, except
C. purpareum, which is now called Potvrea coccinea. The
flowers ‘are bright scarlet, in large branches, blooming pro-
fusely from April to September, and flower best in a pot.
When planted in the ground, it grows too much to wood,
carrying a few flowers. This plant ought to be in every hot-
house. (Soil No. 13.)
Céryphas (Large fan Palm), five species of the most
noble and magnificent of palms. C. ambraculifera, the
fronds or leaves are palmate. In Ceylon, where the tree is
indigenous, they are frequently found fifteen feet wide and
twenty feet long. Knox says they will cover from fifteen
to twenty men, and, when dried, will fold up in the shape
of a rod, and can be easily carried about, and serve to protect
them from the scorching sun, C. ‘aliens now Taliera
Bengalénsis, being stronger, is of great utility for covering
houses. ‘They do not grow to such immense extent in arti-
ficial cultivation, but require large houses to grow them.
(Soil No. 12.)
Crinums, about one hundred species, chiefly stove bulbs,
many of them beautiful. Those that are of great celebrity
are C. erubéscens, pink; C. scdbrum, crimson and white;
C. amabile, purple and white; the neck of the bulb of the
latter is long, is easily distinguished by its purplish colour,
and is unquestionably the finest of the genus. Several
specimens of it are in our collections. Their flowers are in
umbels, on a statk about threé feet high; corolla funnel-
shaped; petals recurved; nearly fifty flowers on each stem.
and a good plant will produce three stems im one year.
They require large pots to make them flower well, and,
when growing, should be liberally supplied with water.
(Soil No. 12.)
Crétons.—About t¥enty-eight species, few of them de-
serving cultivation; but the genus is celebrated for its
beautiful C. pictus, leaves oblong-lanceolate, variegated with
yellow, and stained with red, flowers small green, or axillary
spikes. C. vartegdatus, variety latifolia, is finer than the
original varieydtus ; the nerves in the leaves are yellow, and
the leaves lanceolate, entire, and smooth. To make them
Saale, the give them the warmest part of the hot-house,
and’ “Oyo the pots well. (Soil No. 13.)
yeas, four species, generally called Sago palm, as an
‘ acted,
Mey.) HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. LEN
English name. The plant from which Sago is extracted,
belongs to another genus, (see Sdgus.) C. revolita is a
well-known palm, and will keep perfectly well in the green
house. We have seen a beautiful specimen of it which is
kept every winter in the cellar; but those that are kept so
cool in winter only grow every alternate year, while those
that are kept in the hot-house grow every year, which shows
that heat is their element. C. circindlis is a large-growing
species; the fronds are much longer, but not so close and
thick. C. glauca is a fine species: the foliage is slightly
glaucous. They require plenty of pot-room, are much it-
fested with the small white scaly insect, and ought to be fre
quently examined and carefully washed as prescribed in
January. (Soil No. 12.)
Cypripédium instgne is a very beautiful nepal species of
this curious Ladies’ Slipper plant. The flowers have a waxy
appearance, and very much in the shape of an Indian shoe;
the colours are green and purple; it likes a moist, half-
shaded situation. (Soil No. 16.) ‘
Cyrtanthera, a genus closely related to Justicia. C. mag-
nifica has foliage of a reddish purple colour, with heads of
flesh-coloured flowers blooming from August to December, of
very easy culture. (Soil No. 11.)
Cyrtoceras reflexus, or Hoya coriacea, a new dwarf wax-
plant of magnificent appearance, either for foliage or bloom,
which it produces in great profusion from the axils of almost
every leaf; it is a native of Manilla; it grows freely in Soil
No. 13.
Dracenas, Dragon-tree, about twelve species of Asiatic
plants varied in character. D. Férrea is plentiful in our
collections, and will keep in the green-house ; but the foliage
is not so well retained as when kept in the hot-house ; the
leaves are lanceolate, acute, of a dark crimson colour. D.
termindlis, striped-leaved; D. frdgrans, when in bloom,
will scent the air for a considerable distance, leaves green and
lanceolate. D. margindta is rare, yet it is to be seen ina
few of our collections. D. stricta is now Charlwoddia*
stricta, flowers blush, and in loose panicles. 2). Drdco is ad-*
mired, and the most conspicuous of the genus. (Soil No. 11.)
ae
* Tn honour of Mr. Charlwood, an extensive seedsman/@ tondon
who has made severa: botanical excursions on this continent. -
162 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [May
Erdnthemums, about ten species. EH. pulchéllum and E.
bicolor are the finest of the genus; the former is in our col-
lections. Plenty of heat is indispensable to make it flower
in perfection; therefore it should have the warmest part of
the house, and it will produce flowers of a fine blue colour
from December to April. The flowers of the latter are white
and dark purple, with a few brown spots in the white: blooms
from April to August. Drain the pots well, and give the
plants little sun during summer. (Soil No. 11.)
Eugénias, about thirty species, esteemed for their hand-
some evergreen foliage. This genus once contained a few
celebrated species, which have been divided. (See Jam-
bosa.) The Allspice tree, known as Myrtus Piménta, is
now H. Pimenta; the leaves are ovate, lanceolate, and, when
broken, have an agreeable scent. There are several varie-
ties, all of the same spicy fragrance. The plant is in very
few of our collections. . fragrans is sweet-scented; the
flowers are on axillary peduncles; leaves ovate, obtuse.
(Soil No. 11.)
Euphérbia (spurge), a genus of plants disseminated over
every quarter of the globe; a few are beautiful, many gro-
tesque, and several of the most worthless weeds on the earth.
There are about two hundred species, and from all of them,
when probed, a thick milky fluid exudes. Those of the
tropics are the most curious, and very similar in appearance
to Cdctus, but easily detected by the above perforation
There is a magnificent species In our collections, which was
lately introduced from Mexico—(see Poinsettia). E. splén-
dens flowers freely from December to May, and is of easy
culture. H. fiilgens, same as jaquiniiflora, is a plant of a
slender willow-looking habit, but produces a profusion of
flowers from the axil of each leaf, which renders it very
showy. The flowers of the whole genus are apetalous, and
the beauty of those described is in a brilliant scarlet bractea,
which is very persistent. They must have plenty of pot-
room. (Soil No. 9.)
Erythrinas (Coral tree), a genus containing about thirty
species of leguminose, scarlet-flowering plants. Several
species are greatly esteemed for their beauty and profusior
of flowers, which, in well-established plants, are produced
in long spikes. 2. corallodéndrum blooms magnificently
ir the West Indies, but in our collections has never flowered.
May. HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. 163
Perhaps if it were kept dry during its dormant season, which
is from November to January, and when growing greatly
encouraged, it might produce flowers. LZ. specidsa is a splen-
did flower, leaves large, ternated, and prickly beneath; stem
prickly. £. pubéscens is valued for its large, peculiar brown
pubescent leaves. . princéps is quite a new species, and is
represented as being the finest of all the Hrythrinas, and
exhibits its rich crimson flowers in great profusion; to make
them grow well and bloom freely, they require plenty of pot-
room; indeed, while in a growing state, they should be re-
potted every month. In regard to EZ. herbacea, which is a
native of the Carolinas, and frequently trea'ed as a hot-house
plant, it is our opinion that it would be moe perfectly grown
if planted about the first of the month in the garden; and,
when growing, if well supplied with water, it would flower
from July to September. About the first of November lift
the roots and preserve them in half dry earth. Z. laurifolia
and &. cristagdlli are likewise often treated as hot-house
plants, and in such situations they cast prematurely their first
flowers by the confined state of the air. They will keep in
perfect preservation during winter ina dry cellar, half covered
with earth, or entirely covered with half dry earth; conse-
quently, the best and easiest method of treatment is to plant
them in the garden about the first of May, and, when grow-
ing, if the ground beeomes dry, give them frequent waterings.
They will flower profusely three or four times in the course of
the summer.
We freely recommend the last species to all our patrons,
confident that it will give ample satisfaction, both in profusion
of flower and beauty of colour. The soil they are to be
planted into should be rich and well pulverized ; or, if they
ure kept in pots, they must be enlarged three or four times,
when they are in a growing state, to make them flower per-
fectly; otherwise they will be diminutive. (Soil No 13.)
Ficus, Fig-tree, a genus containing about fifty hot-house
species, besides several that belong to the green-house : greatly
admired for the beauty of their foliage. A few of them are
deciduous, and all of the easiest culture. We have seen plants
of F. eldstica hung in the back of the hot-house, without the
smallest particle of earth, their only support being sprinklings
of water every day. F. brdssi and I. macrophylla are the
finest-looxing species that haye come under our observation ;
164 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [Mey
the leaves of both are very Jarge and shading, occupying con-
siderable space. In small collections, /. ¢ndica and FI. nitida
are desirable; £. repéns is a climbing plant. (Soil No. 15.)
Franciscea, a new genus of plants from South America,
containing about four species of profuse-blooming plants.
F. Hopeana and F. latifolia are generally known; the latter
possesses all the combined fragrance of the jasmine and
jouquil ; the flowers are one inch in diameter, of a rich purple,
fading to pure white, and blooms the whole winter. (Soil
oN; )
Gardénias, a genus containing about seventeen species,
several of them very popular in our collections, going under
the name of Cape Jasmine, which do well in the green-house
(see May). The species requiring this department, and de-
serving attention, are G. Sherbournii, with large spotted
flowers; G. Stanleyana, flowers of a greenish white colour,
nine inches long, spotted with brown, splendid; they require
to have the pots well drained. (Soil No. 13.)
Geissoméria longiflora. This is a new genus, and closely
allied to /?uéllia. The species alluded to is a free flower,
blooming from January to May, in close spikes of a scarlet
colour, leaves opposite, ovate, elongate and shining; the plants
must be well drained, and in summer kept from the direct
influence of the sun. (Soil No. 2.)
Helicénia braziliensis. This very splendid plant is nearly
related to Strelitzia, and in splendour surpasses it. The
brilliant scarlet sheath that envelops the flowers contrasts
most admirably with its rich green leaves. Give plenty of
drainage to the pots, and, when the plants are growing, give
a liberal supply of water. (Soil No. 17.)
Heliotripiums, about twelve species, of little merit, except
H. peruvianum, H. intermedia, H. valitariana, pale bluish
white; H. fleur de Liege, represented as yellow, but is only
a very dull white, with a faint yellow eye; these are all very
agreeably scented, especially the two former, which are uni-
versal favourites. (Soil No. 3.)
Hibiscus.—This genus affords many fine species and varie
ties of plants for the hot-house, besides others for every de
partment of the garden. The most popular in our collec.
tions of the hot-house is H. résa sinénsis, with its varieties,
which are magnificent, and flower profusely from February
to September. The single or original species is also beauti-
May. ] HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. 165
ful; the varieties are H. rosa sinénsis ribro plénus, double
red; ZH. r. s. cdrnea plénus, double salmon; H. r. s. varie:
gatus, double striped; striped on the back of the outside
petals; H. rs. flava plénus, or carnea, double buff; H. r
s. litea plénus, double yellow, or rather sulphur. The plants
grow freely, and produce their flowers three or four inches
in diameter, from the young wood; the leaves are ovate,
acuminate, smooth, entire at the base, and coarsely teethed
at the end. All the varieties are of the same character, and
highly deserving of a situation in every collection. There
is said to be a double white variety, which we doubt. A
mutabilis fldre pléno is a splendid plant, of strong growth,
and will, when well established, flower abundantly, if the
wood of last year is cut to within a few eyes of the wood of
the previous year; the flowers are produced on the young
wood, and come out a pale colour, and change to bright red,
and about the size of a garden Provins rose; leaves downy,
cordate, angular, five-lobed, acuminate, and slightly in-
dented. HH. lillii-florus is a new highly esteemed species ;
the flowers are various in colour, being pink, blush, red, and
purple. The leaves vary in character, but are generally
cordate, crenate, acuminate; the petioles are brown, and the
whole slightly hirsute; is deciduous, and requires to be kept
in the warmest part of the house. (Soil No. 9.)
Héyas, wax-plant, twenty species. All of them are climb-
ing succulents, reqniring plenty of heat and little water. H.
carnosa is a fine flowering species, and known in our collec-
tions as the wax-plant; the leaves are green and fleshy ;
the flowers are mellifluous, five-parted, and in pendulous
bunches, slightly bearded, and have every appearance of a
composition of the finest wax; of a blush colour. H. cras-
sifolia, H. grandiflora, brown flowered, H. bella, variegated,
H. Cunninghamii and H. imperialis are all well worthy of
cultivation. (Soil No. 2.)
Ipomeas, a genus of tropical climbing plants, nearly allied
to Convolvilus, but of greater beauty. J. Jdlapa is the
true jalap of the druggists, but not worthy of any other re-
mark. J. Horsfdllia has brilliant rosy crimson flowers,
which it is almost entirely covered with from December to
May. J. rugosa has a profusion of large rosy lilac flowers
I. multiflora, blush and lilac. JL. Learii produces a profu-
sion of large blue flowers; they are all very showy and becau-
166 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [May
tiful ornaments for either the hot-house or the flower-garden.
(Soil No. 13.)
Isméne amdncaes, or Pancratium amdncaes. This pro-
fuse yellow-flowering bulb is richly deserving of cultivation,
and should be kept in the house all summer, repotting it as
often as the roots touch the interior side of the pot, giving it
plenty of water when in a growing state ; but when dormant,
it must be kept dry till it offers to grow: when well treated,
it will bloom repeatedly during summer. (Soil No. 12.)
Izoras, a genus of fine flowering plants, and does extremely
well in our collections in comparison to the state they are
grown in England. The genus specifically is much confused
among us, either from error originating with those who
packed them for this country, or after they have arrived. J.
purpirea, leaves oblong, ovate, blunt; flowers crimson: J.
crocdata, leaves oval, lanceolate, narrowing toward the stem,
smooth underside of the leaf; the nerves are very percep-
tible; flowers saffron-coloured, and very profuse. J. rosea,
leaves large, regular oblong, a little acute, very distant on
the wood, central nerve strong ; flowers rose-coloured in large
corymbs, branching finely ; J. bandhica, leaves very close to
the stem, ovate, acuminate; nerves straight, middle nerve
stronger than any other of the genus; flowers scarlet. J.
blénda, leaves small, lanceolate, ovate; flowers red, cymes
branching in three. J. dichotima, leaves largest of the genus,
ovate, acuminate, undulate footstalk three-eighths of an
inch long; whereas, none of the leaves of the other species
have footstalks of any length; it is now called /. wnduldta ;
flowers are white, leaves ovate, elongate, sessile; J. coccinea,
flowers scarlet, in crowded corymbs. J. javonica, similar to
coccinea in habit and form, with orange flowers. J. salicifolia,
is willow-leaved, as its name implies, flowers scarlet orange. J.
Pavétta, the flowers are white and sweet-scented, the leaves of
all the species are opposite ; there are a few other species that
we are not thoroughly acquainted with, but have been thus
explicit to prevent error as far as possible in this beautiful
genus. They are all evergreen, low-growing shrubs; the
plants grow best in Jersey black sandy earth, but flower most
abundantly with Soil No. 10.
Jambosas, about twelve species, which have been princi-
pally taken from Hugeénia, and contains its ficest plants, and
is a splendid genus of evergreen shrubs. £ Jdmbos is now
May. | HOT-HOUSE—OF REPUTTING, ETC. 167
Jambosa vulgaris, which flowers and fruits freely in our hot-
houses. The fruit is about an inch in diameter, eatable, and
smelling like a rose, hence called ‘‘ Rose Apple.”’ The petals
of all the species are simple, and may rather be considered
the calyx; the beauty of the flowers is in the many erect
spreading stamens, either straw, white, rose, or green colour.
J. malaccénsis, Malay Apple, is greatly esteemed for the de-
lightful fragrance of its fruit. We frequently see J. purpu-
rascens, which is a native of the West Indies, going under J.
m., which is an Asiatic species, with white flowers and entire
oblong leaves; whereas, the leaves of J. p. are small, ovate,
acuminate ; the young shoots and leaves are purple. J. ma
crophylla, white, and J. amplexicadlis, green, have very long
oblong, lanceolate leaves, and are of a strong, woody habit.
They are all easy of culture. (Soil No. 11.)
Jasminum, Jasmine, is a favourite genus of shrubs for the
exquisite fragrance of its flowers, of which none are more
delightful than J. sémbac or Arabian Jasmine. There are
two other varieties of it, J. s. multiplex, perfectly double ;
and J. s. ¢trifoliatum, double Tuscan Jasmine or Grand
Duke; J. s. Maid of Orleans, large, very double, like a very
perfect white rose, and exquisitely fragrant. There is also a
semi-double variety in cultivation. J. multiflorum is a pro-
Tusely flowering and beautiful species. There are several
others, all with white flowers, #nd generally easy of culture
(Soil No. 11.)
Jatropha, Physic-nut, is a genus of six strong-growing
shrubs, natives of the West Indies. J. multifida and J.
pandurefolia have the handsomest foliage, and both have
scarlet flowers; the appearance of the foliage of this genus is
the only object: the flowers are small, in coarse disfigured
panicles, and several of the species have not been known to
flower in artificial cultivation. The seeds of J. ctircas are
vften received from the West Indies; the leaves are cordate,
angular and smooth. J. manthot, now Manihot cannabina, is
the Cassada root, the juice of which, when expressed, is a
strong poison. They are all easy of culture; want of strong
heat in winter will make them cast their leaves, but does them
no other injury. (Soil No. 17.)
Justicia. A few species of this genus are fine showy hot-
house plants. J. carnea, flesh-colour flowers in large spikes,
very fine, blooming nearly the whole season. J. coccinea has
168 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [May
large terminal spikes of scarlet flowers, blooming from De-
cember to March, and is a very desirable plant, of easy cul-
ture, and should be in every collection; it is apt to grow
spindly, if not kept near the glass. J. picta, with its varieties,
I. lucida, and JI. calyctricha, are fine shrubby species. J.
speciosa is a beautiful profuse purple flowering plant. (Soil
No. 11.)
Lantana, a genus of twenty species, all free-flowering
shrubs; the flowers are small, in round heads blooming from
the axils, in yellow, orange, pink, white and changeable coloars;
rincipally of a rough, straggling growth, and are not esteemed.
Iowever, LZ. selléi, light purple; LZ. mutdbilis, yellow,
orange, and pink; L. bécolor, white and pink, and L. fucdta
(or Douglasti of some), lilac and white; L. rosea, white,
changing to rose; I. Mexicana, very rich orange, one of the
finest. These are very handsome growing plants, and will
even keep in a good green-house; but in such case will only
bloom in summer. They will not bear a strong fumigation ;
therefore, when the hot-house is under that operation, they
must be set down in the pathway, or other jow part in the
house. (Soil No. 9.)
Lasiandra, a genus related to melastoma, of which there
are several very handsome species. L. splendens, with
hirsute rich crimson foliage and brilliant purple flowers,
blooming from January to May. JL. Benthamiana, with very
elegant foliage and rich bluish purple flowers, grows freely in
Soil No. 1.
Latanias. This genus contains three species of handsome
palms. JL. barbonica is one of the finest of the Palme, not
growing to great magnitude; the leaves or fronds are plaited
flabelliform, leaflets smooth at the edge, footstalk spiny, and
the plant spreading. JL. ribra, fronds same as the former,
but leaflets more divided and surrulate; footstalk unarmed :
foliage reddish. JL. glaucophylla same as L. ribra, only the
foliage glaucous. They are all-valuable plants, and are ob-
tained by seed from the East Indies. They require plenty of
pot-room. (Soil No. 12.)
Latrus.—This genus, though of no beauty in flower, is
generally admired in collections for its fine evergreen foli-
age, and aromatic or spicy flavour, and several trees are
important in medicine. ‘The most esteemed are given to a
genus named Cinnamomum. as has been observed in tha
ee
May. | HOT-HCUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. 169
green-house (see March). IL. Chlordérylon is the Cogwood
of Jamaica. LD. pérsea is now Pérsea gratissim+, Alliga-
tor-pear, a fruit about the size of a large pear, and greatly
esteemed in the West Indies; the plant is generally known
in our collections. C. vérum is the true Cinnamon of com
merce.
The part taken is the inside of the bark when the tree is
from five to eighteen years old. The leaves are three-
nerved, ovate, oblong; nerves vanishing towards the point,
bright green above, pale beneath, with whitish veins. This
plant ought to be kept in the warmest part of the hot-house.
C. cassia is frequently given under the former name, but
when compared, may be easily detected by the leaves being
more lanceolate and a little pubescent. They both make
handsome plants, but require great heat. Drain the pots well
of the delicate sorts. (Soil No. 13.)
Lycopodium, a family of dwarf mossy-like plants, admir-
bly adapted for shady situations amongst other plants to cover
pots, edgings for paths, &e. LL. denticulatum, green. L.
cesicum, blue green L. arboreum large, blue climbing, very
elegant. They all require an abundance of moisture and will
grow in any soil.
Mangifera, Mango tree. There are two species. M. fn-
dica is in our collections, and bears a fruit which is so highly
esteemed in the East Indies as to be considered preferable to
any other, except very fine pine-apples. The leaves are
lanceolate, and from six to eight inches long, and two or
more broad. The flowers are produced in loose bunches at
the end of the branches, but of no beauty, and have to be
artificially impregnated, or it will scarcely produce fruit.
The shell is kidney-shaped, and of a leathery crustaceous sub-
stance. They contain one seed, and in their indigenous state
are more juicy than an apple. Drain the pots well, as the
roots are apt to get sodden from moisture. The other species
goes under the name of oppusitifolia, but we question if it is
not only a variety, for it has every character of the one just
described. (Soil No. 11.)
Merica, a genus of hot-house plants, closely allied to Jris,
between which there is no distinction in the leaves. The
flowers of M. cerilea are beautifully spotted with light and
dark blue, the scape many-flowered. J. Sabini has flowers
similar, but not so dark in colour. Jf. Northidna has splen-
15
170 HOT-HCUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [May
did white and brown-spotted flowers, spathe two-flowered.
These plants, when growing, require a liberal supply. of
water, and should be greatly encouraged by frequent potting
to flower well. (Soil No. 12.)
Melastoma was once an extensive genus, on which the
natural order Melastomacee is founded; but is now much
divided into other genera contained in the natural tribe
Micomec. There are about thirteen species remaining in
the genus. They now display great unity of character, and
many of them may be considered very ornamental. The
finest are MM. heteromalla, bluish purple, and an abundant
bloomer; MM. malabbathrica, rose-coloured; MM. sanguinea,
lilac; Jf. splendens, large violet; and AM. aspera, rose.
There is a plant in several of our collections known as J.
purptrea and M. tetragona, which is Osscea purpurascens ;
leaves ovate, lanceolate, acuminate, five-nerved, pilose; the
footstalk and nerves underside of the leaf covered with
brown hairs; stem four-sided; flowers purple. All the
species are easy of culture. J. nepalénsis is a green-house
plant. (Soil No. 1.)
Mandevilla Suavedlens, or Chili Jasmine: this beautiful
climber is a native of South America; the flowers are in
clusters and nearly bell-shaped, white, and of exquisite fra-
grance; the bloom is produced on the extremity of the
shoots. After the flowering season, the plants should be
pruned back to within a few eyes of the preceding year’s
wood. (Soil No. 13.
Medinilla, 1 new family of tropical plants, magnificent for
the grandeur of their foliage and the profusion of pink
flowers, which they produce at nearly all seasons of the year.
M. erythrophylla, M. radicaus, M. Speciosa and M. Stebol-
diana, are all easily cultivated. (Soil No. 12.)
Musa (Plantain tree), contains eight species, and is greatly
esteemed in the East and West Indies for the luscious sweet
flavour of its fruit, which can be converted into every delicacy
in the domestic cookery of the country. M. paradistaca is the
true plantain tree, has a soft herbaceous stalk, fifteen or
twenty feet high, with leaves from five to seven feet long, and
about two feet wide. MM. sapiéntum is the true banana tree ;
habit and character same as the former, except it has a spotted
stem, and the male flowers are deciduous. The pulp of the
fruit is softer, and the taste more luscious. M. rosdcea, M
May.] HOT-HOUSE—9OF REPOTTING, =:TC. 171
roccinea, and M. chinénsis, are more esteemed in artificial cul-
tivation for their flowers, and for being smaller in growth
M. Cavendishit produces immense clusters of ripe and well-
flavoured fruit, plants only four feet and a half high ; will
yearly produce about eighty pounds. M. décca is another
dwarf species, and in 1838 ripened a cluster of fruit in the
Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh which weighed fifty
pounds. These dwarf bananas are now being cultivated in
Kurope expressly for their fruit, which is very delicious when
perfectly ripened. They are Chinese plants, and will soon be
introduced into the West India Islands, where they will
entirely supplant the large varieties.
Myrtus Piménta, or, more properly, Piménta Vulydris, is
the Jamaica pepper or allspice; there is no beauty in the
flowers—the leaves are highly aromatic, and it is a handsome
evergreen. (Soil No. 9.)
Nepénthes (Pitcher-plant). There are two species of
this plant. N. distillatoria is an esteemed and valuable
plant in Huropean collections, and we are not aware of there
being any in this country, except in Philadelphia. The
leaves are lanceolate and sessile; from their extremity there
is a spiral, attached to which are long inflated appendages
that are generally half full of water, which appears to be
confined within them by a lid with which the appendages are
surmounted; hence the name of pitcher plant. We have
never observed the lids close again when once open. Writers
have called it an herbaceous plant, but it is properly aclimbing
shrub. The pot in which it grows should be covered with
moss, and the roots liberally supplied with water every day.
It delights to be in a moist state. The flowers are small, and
in long spikes. The plant is of easy culture, and even rapid
in growth: a plant with us only nineteen months old is now
five feet high. (Soil No. 5.)
Pancratium is a genus of hot-house bulbs, and now only
contains five species. They are all free-flowering. Several
of them are handsome and fragrant. P. maritimum and P.
verecindum are the finest; the flowers are white, in large
umbels; petals long, recurved, and undulate. P. Littoralis,
P. speciosum, and P. caribeum, are now given to the genus
Hymenocdllis, and are fine flowering species. Care must be
taken not to give them water while dormant. The soi] ought
ee HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [ May.
) iY.
at that time to be ina half dry state. They are in flower
from; May to August. (Soil No. 12.)
Panddnus, Screw Pine. There are about twenty species
in this genus, several of them very interesting, but none se
greatly admired as P. odoratissimus. The leaves in estab-
lished plants are from four to six fcet long, on the back
and edges spiny; are spreading, imbricated, and embracing
the stem, and placed in three spiral rows upon it. The
top soon becomes heavy, when the plant throws out prongs
one, two, or three feet up the stem in an oblique descending
direction, which take root in the ground, and thus become
perfectly supported. It is cultivated in Japan for its de-
lightful fragrance, and it is said, “‘of all the perfumes, it is
by far the richest and most powerful.” P. dtilis, red-
spined. We question this species, and are inclined to
believe that it is the former, only when the plants are newly
raised from seed the spines and leaves are red, changing to
green as they become advanced in age. The plants are easy
of culture, and will grow almost in any soil. (Soil No.
123)
Passifléra, “ Passion-flower, so named on account of its
being supposed to represent in the appendages of its flower
the Passion of Jesus Christ.’ There are about fifty species,
all climbing plants, that belong to the hot-house. Many are
of no ordinary beauty; a few species are odoriferous ; others
bear edible fruits, though not rich in flavour. P. aldta is
in our collections, and greatly admired; the flowers are red,
blue, and white, beautifully contrasted, and flower profusely
in pots. P. racemésa, red flower. P. cerileo-racemésa,
purple. P. quadrangularis has beautiful red and white
flowers. The plant is iv. several collections, but has seldom
flowered; it requires to be planted in the ground to make it
flower freely, and it will also produce fruit. P. picturdta is
a scarce and beautiful ;arious-coloured species. P. kerme-
sina, bright rosy erimson, and, beyond all question, the most
profuse flowering apecies now in cultivation, and will do well
in a good green-house. LP. Loudénii, bright crimson. P.
edulis is cultivated for its fruit. There are many other fine
species, but these are the most esteemed sorts; and, when
well established, will flower profusely from May to August
They are desirable in every collection, and will take only a
May.] HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. 175
small space to hold them, by training the vines up the rafters
of the hot-house. (Soil No. 13.)
Phenix, Date-palm, about eight species, principally Asi-
atic plants. The foliage is not so attractive as many others
of the palm family, but it is rendered interesting by producing.
a well-known fruit called Date. P. dactylifera will do very
well in a common green-house. In Arabia, Upper Egypt, and
Barbary, it is much used in domestic economy. P. palu-
désa has the most beautiful foliage, and the best habit. The
flowers are diccious. (Soil No. 12.)
Plumbdgo résea is a pretty free-blooming plant, with con-
tinued profusion of red flowers ; it requires plenty of heat ana
a good drainage. (Soil No. 11.)
Plumérias, above twenty species. Plants of a slow growth,
robust nature, and are deciduous. ‘The foliage is greatly ad-
mired. The plants are shy to flower, but are brilliant in
colour. P. acumindta has lanceolate, acute leaves, flowers
corymbose and terminal. P. tricolor has oblong, acute,
veiny leaves; corolla red, yellow, and white. This and P.
rubra are the finest of the genus. They ought not to get any
water while not in a growing state. (Soil No. 11.)
Poinséttia* pulcherrvma. When well cultivated, this i
truly the most magnificent of all the tropical plants we have
ever seen; from December to April, it is crowned with
flowers, surrounding which are bright scarlet whorls of brac-
tex, frequently measuring twenty-two inches in diameter.
To grow it to such perfection, we treat it as follows: in April
we cut the young wood down to within two inches of the
wood of the preceding year, and reduce the ball of earth, put-
ting it into a smaller pot. About the end of May we plant
it in the open ground, in light rich soil, giving it one or two
waterings after planting. During summer it will grow three
or four feet ; about the end of September, it is carefully lifted
and potted into a large-sized pot, and put into the hot-house,
sarefully shading it for a few days—when it requires no more
attention except a regular supply of water, and to be kept in
a temperature of from 55° to 75°. There is also a pale yel-
* Named by Professor Graham, of Edinburgh, in compliment to the
Hon. J. R. Poinsett (late Secretary of War), who introduced the
plant in 1828 to this country from Mexico, while he was Minister
Plenipotentiary to that Republic. He also, at the same time, intre-
duced a rich and valuable collection of Cactex.
Lees
174 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [ May.
low bracteced variety ; but we are not aware of its being for
sale in this country. When the plant is grown in pots during
summer, it must be repotted every month to encourage its
rapid growth. (Soil No. 18.)
Rhdpis, a genus of palms that will grow very freely with
heat and room at the roots. FR. flabelliférmis is an erect
growing palm, with a spreading head. It is anative of China.
(Soil No. 12.)
Rondelétia speciésa is a new and rare plant, in every re-
spect equal, if not superior, to Jxdra céccinea; its large
corymbs of orange-red flowers have a very striking appear-
ance, and it is easily cultivated in soil No. 1. It should have
frequent repottings when growing.
Ruéllia. There are a few species, very pretty flowering
plants, of easy culture. 2. formosa, flowers long, of a fine
scarlet colour; plant half shrubby. FR. fulgtda has bright
searlet flowers on axillary long-stalked fascicles. A. persi-
cifolia, with unequal leaves and light blue flowers, is now
called R. anisophylla. (Soil No. 10.)
Russélia juncea, a slender plant of an upright habit, pro-
ducing, when well grown, a profusion of scarlet tubular
flowers, about one inch long each: it is of the easiest culture
in soil No. 19.
Sdgus, Sago palm. We are of opinion that the true palm
from which the sago of the shops is produced has not been
introduced into our collections. It is very rare in the most
extensive collections of Europe, but it is not so fine a plant
as the one we have under the Sago, which is placed in the
natural order of Cycadeer; and Sagus is in that of Palme.
The finest of this genus is S. vintfera and S. Riuimphii.
They grow to a great height; even in artificial cultivation
they may be seen from ten to twenty-five feet. We have not
‘ntroduced them here for their beauty, but to prevent error.
(Soil No. 12.)
Soldndra, a genus of four species, remarkable for the ex-
traordinary size of their flowers, and are considered beautiful.
S. grandiflora and S. viridiflora are the best two. The
plants will bloom well if they are restricted in pot-room, and
are only introduced as being worthy of cultivation. If they
are repotted once in two or three years, it is sufficient, except
where the plants are small and want encouragement. (Soil
No. 13.)
-
flay. HOT-IL0USE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. 175
7
Strelitzia, a splendid genus of noble-looking plants, all of
which do perfectly well in the green-house, except S. augiista,
the flowers of which are pure white ; the leaves are very large,
being nearly six feet long and eighteen inches wide, and
assume the appearance of the Banana tree: it requires great
space for its roots. (Soil No. 12.)
Stephanotis florabundus, a new and splendid evergreen
climber, with dark green thick leaves like a luxuriant wax
plant, producing large bunches of pure waxy white fragrant
flowers ; of easy culture in soil No. 13.
Stigmaphyllon cilliatum, a very distinct climbing plant,
well adapted for covering rafters, columns, or trellis work, the
foliage is of a glossy green, and when covered with its bright
yellow flowers in profuse clusters, it makes a charming object
(Soil No. 13.)
Swieténia (Mahogany tree), the wood of which is celepra-
ted in cabinet work. S§. mahégoni, common. This tree
varies much in general appearance, according to soil and
situation. The leaves are pinnated in four pairs; leaflets
ovate, lanceolate ; flowers small, white, in axillary panicles
S. fubrifiga, leaves pinnated, in four pairs; leaflets ellipti-
cal; flowers white, in terminal panicles. The wood of the
last is the most durable of any in the East Indies. They are
fine plants, and require heat and pot-room to produce flowers.
(Soil No. 15.)
Taberneemontana, a genus of little beauty, except for one
or two species. A plant known in some collections as Nérium
corondrium, is now, and properly, 7’. corondria. The variety
flore pléno is the one most deserving of culture, and will
flower profusely from May to August; the flowers are double,
white, fragrant, and divaricating. The plant will lose its
foliage if not kept in a strong heat; therefore place it in the
warmest part of the hot-house. 7’. densiflora is a fine specics,
but very rare. Drain all the plants well, and keep them in
the shade during summer.
Tecoma, a genus of plants closely allied to Bignénia, and
are free-flowering ; several of them much esteemed. 7’. mdllis,
T. digitdta, and T. spléndida, are the most beautiful of those
that belong to the hot-house. They have large orange-coloured,
tubular, inflated, ringent flowers, in loose panicles. There is
a plant known in our collections as Bigndnta stdns, which is
now 7’. stins; has pinnated leaves, with oblong, lanceolate,
#6 HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. [ May.
serrated leaflets; flowers in simple terminal raceme, and of a
yellow colour, and sometimes known by Ash-leaved Bignonia.
It will always have a sickly aspect, if not well encouraged in
light rich soil. For other species, see Green-houge. Drain
the pots well, as much moisture disfigures the foliage. (Soil
No. 10.)
Thrinax parviflora is a fine dwarf palm of the West
Indies, with palmated fronds, plaited with stiff, lanceolate
segments. The plant 1s of easy cultivation, and will grow in
any soil. (Soil No. 12.)
Thunbérgta, a genus containing six climbing plants of a
half shrubby nature. Some of them have a fragrant odour.
T. coccinea, red; T. grandiflora, blue; T. fragrans, white
sweet-scented; 7’. aldta has pretty buff and purple flowers,
which are in great profusion. If sown in May, they will
bloom from July until killed by frost. 7. chrysops, beauti-
ful blue, with a dark brown eye, a plant of dwarf habit re-
quiring partial shade. This makes a very pretty annual in
the flower-garden, with its beautiful white variety, forming an
elegant contrast. (Soil No. 13.)
Torénia Asidtica, an exquisite tropical, soft-wooded plant,
producing a profusion of waxy, porcelain blue flowers, tipped
with rich violet purple, in constant succession, requiring par-
tial shade and frequent sprinklings of water over the foliage.
It also succeeds admirably out of doors in the summer sea-
son, where the situation is moist and half-shady. (Soil No.
13.)
Tradescdntia discolor. Purple-leaved spider wort. This
1s an herbaceous plant, and is only cultivated for its beauti-
ful purple foliage. It has curious small white flowers. (Soil
No. 10.)
Urdnia speciésa, a gigantic-looking plant closely connected
to Musa, from which it differs in habit by the large leaves
being more erect: to grow it luxuriantly, give it plenty of
heat, water, and pot-room. (Soil No. 12.)
Vinca rosea or Madagascar Periwinkle, makes a charming
winter flowering plant for the hot-house, there are three
varieties pure white, white with rose eye, and the purple, all
of the easiest culture in any soil; they require full exposure
to the sun and to be frequently repotted.
Zamia, a genus of plants in the natural order of Cycadce.
Several species of them are admired. Z. média, Z. fuifurd:
May. HOT-HOUSE—OF BRINGING OUT, ETC. li7
J )
cca, Z. ténuis, Z. integra ifolia, are the most showy that belong
to the hot-house. The whole genus is frequently kept in
this department. They are all plants of a slow growth, and
the beauty is entirely in the pinnated fronds, with from ten
to forty pairs of leaflets. The pots must be well drained
(Soil No. 11.)
Those genera of plants which we have enumerated under
the head of repotting in this or next month, are composed of
the finest hot-house plants that have come under our observa-
tion. There are perhaps a few of ‘hem that are not to be
found in the United States, or even on our continent; but the
great object in a choice collection of plants, is to have the
finest from all parts of the known world. There are many
plants whose nature does not require much support from soil,
which is frequently observed in those that are mentioned.
And there are many hundreds of plants desirable for beauty,
ornament, and curiosity, which would take volumes to specify
and describe. In fact, every year brings many new things,
and frequently both new and splendid, either in flower, fruit,
or foliage.
We have previously observed, that plants ought not to be
flooded with water when newly potted, as it saturates the soil
before the roots have taken hold of it; and that the best
draining for pots is small gravel or pot-shreds broken fine.
We wish it to be understood that, when plants are repotted,
any irregular branch or shoot should be lopped off that can-
not be tied to advantage. And repotting may take place
either before or after the plants are exposed to the open air,
according to convenience.
OF BRINGING OUT THE HOT-HOUSE PLANTS.
When the hot-house is very crowded with plants, the best
method to have them exposed without danger is to take out
those of the hardiest nature first, that have no tender shoots
upon them, thereby thinning the house gradually. This may
be done from the sixteenth to the twenticth of the month,
which will admit of a free circulation of air among those that
remain. All may be exposed from the twenty-fourth to the
twenty-eighth of the month. This is a general rule, though
in some seasons there may be exceptions. Having previously
178 HOT-HOUSE—OF BRINGING OUT, ETC. [ May.
given all the air possible to the house, that no sudden transi-
tion take place, which would make the foliage brown and
otherwise materially injure the plants, choose calm days for
the removing of them.
There are few plants while in pots that agree with the full
sun upon them; or, if the plants receive the sun, the pots
and roots ought not. The best situation for them ‘ig on the
north side of a fence, wall, house, or other building, where
they are excluded from the mid-day sun, and they should
stand on boards or gravel, with the tallest at the back, firmly
tied to a rail, or some other security, to prevent them from
being overturned by high winds. Make a fanciful bed, and
cover it with sand or coal ashes, for the reception of the
smaller plants, and setting them thinly and regularly thereon
is preferable to crowding them with the taller sorts. And
it may be desired to have some of the plants plunged in the
garden through the flower borders. Of these that are so
treated, the pots must be plunged to the brim, and regularly
turned round every two weeks, to prevent the roots from
running into the earth. If the roots were allowed to do so,
it might for the present strengthen the plant, but ultimately
would prove injurious.
Where a sufficiency of shade cannot be obtained, it would
be advisable to go to the expense of a very thin awning,
that would not exclude the light, but merely the powerful
rays of the sun, attending to roll it up every evening. Plants
will keep in beautiful order by the above method, which
amply repays for the trouble or expense. Avoid putting
plants under trees; comparatively few thrive in such situa-
tions.
When they are thus exposed to the open air, it will be very
little trouble to give them a gentle syringing every evening
when there is no rain, and continue your usual examinations
for insects; when they appear, resort to the prescribed reme-
dies. Green-fly will not affect them, but the thrips may.
(ive regular supplies of water every evening, and again in the
morning to all that require it, carefully examining those that
are in small pots.
June, July.) HOT-HOUSE—OF REPOTTING, ETC. 179
SUCCULENTS, OR THE CACTZA TRIBE,
The Céreus Mammillaria, and Opintia. Divisions of tnis
family are, in their indigenous state, exposed on rocks, hilly
lands, and arid situations, being at all times fully exposed to
the sun: still, with us, we find that they thrive best with a
partial shade, though we have frequently seen them doing well
when fully exposed to the influence of the sun; but where
they are tc be kept out of doors all the season, be careful in
choosing for them an airy situation, and never allow the pots
to become saturated with moisture.
The habits of the Epiphyllum tribe are entirely different ;
they are generally parasites, growing on the branches and
about the roots of decayed trees ; consequently, they are often
much shaded, and they evidently show it, for they still de-
light to be shaded from the direct rays of a noonday sun. If
they are kept in the house through the summer months, take
some whiting, and make a thin white-wash, and put it on the
inside of the glass, which will be found an agreeable and
effectual shade ; but where time and means are at hand, a
thin awning, of gauze or muslin, is preferable, provided it is
regularly rolled up when the sun is not powerful.
JUNE AND JULY.
As the plants of the hot-house are all exposed to the open
air, the directions will include both months. If the repot-
ting is over, as recommended last month, all the attention
they will require until the end of August is, the administer-
ing of water at the roots, and by the syringe overhead. It
will be impossible to say how great are their wants, these de-
pending entirely upon the nature of the plant, the situation,
and the season; but never neglect to look over them every
evening, and after dry nights they will need a fresh supply in
the morning, observing to give to none except they are be-
eoming a little dry. Make weekly examinations for insects
180 HOT-HOUSE—OF PAINTING, ETC. [August.
of any description, and when they appear, have them instantly
destroyed.
Always after heavy rains look over the pots, in case wate1
should be standing in them, which would injure the roots.
Where any is found, turn the pot on its side, and, in a few
hours, examine the draining which is defective ; small pots in
continued rains should be turned likewise.
Tie up all plants and shoots to prevent them from being
destroyed by the wind, and be attentive to pick all weeds
from the pots. Turn round all the plants occasionally, to
prevent them from being drawn to one side by the sun or
light.
AUGUST.
THE plants of the hot-house that were repotted in May and
June, according to the directions therein given, will, at pre-
sent, be in an excellent state of health, provided they have
got at all times the requisite supplies of watering. And as
we already have been very explicit on that subject, more re-
marks now would be merely repetition.
REPOTTING.
If any of the repottings were neglected during May or
June, let it be done about the first of this month. Let
young plants that are growing freely, where the roots have
filled the pots, and the plants required to grow, have pots one
size larger. In turning out the ball of earth, keep it entire,
not disturbing any of the roots.
OF PAINTING, REPAIRING, AND CLEANSING THE HOUSE
The necessary repairs of the hot-house are too often put
off to the last day or week; and then with hurry are superfi-
elally attended to Previous to the first of September, have
September.] HOT-HOUSE—OF TAKING IN LfHE PLANTS. 181
all the wood-work painted (which ought to have one coat every
two years), and the glass all neatly repaired. Have the flues
and furnace examined ; plaster over all rents, and make good
every deficiency. Give the flue a thick coat of lime white-
wash. Have the walls, shelves, and staging properly painted.
If there is a tan-bed, have that renewed; take out what is
most decayed, using two-thirds new tan, which must be dried
at least three days in the sun before it is housed, and carefully
protect it from rains.
SEPTEMBER.
DRESSING THE PLANTS.
Havina last month put the house in complete ordex all
that remains necessary to be attended to is the state of che
plants and pots, which should be regularly examined; «nd
of those where the roots fill the soil, a little may be taken off
the top, supplying its place with fresh earth, thereby giving
what is called a top-dressing. Give each that requires 1t a
sufficient rod, tying the plant neatly thereto; minutely scruti-
uize each for insects, and where they are detected, have them
eradicated.
Finally, wash all contracted foulness from off the pots, at
the same time pick off any decayed leaves ; thus all will be in
perfect order to take into the house. If any plants have been
kept in the hot-house during summer, they must likewise go
through the same operation.
OF TAKING IN THE PLANTS.
From the 16th to the 24th, according to the season, is
the proper time to take in the hot-house plants. It is pre-
ferable to have them what might be deemed a few days too
early, than have them in the slightest degree affected by
ecld.
Commence by housing the largest first, and those that stand
16
182 HOT-HOUSE—OBSERVATIONS. [ October.
farthest in the house, observing to place the most tender sorts
nearest the heat or warmest part of the house. For observa-
tions on them, see May. In regard to arrangement, that must
be according to the taste of the operator. We may observe,
that in a small collection it is better to have them in a regular
than in a picturesque form. August, and has showy searlet
March. ] GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 227
flowers in terminal panicles. The plants known as C. cvcct-
nea, and C. versicolor, are now given to the genus Kalosdn-
thus. The flowers of the former are scarlet, wax-like, termi-
nal, and sessile; those of the latter are rose and white, also
wax-like, and are both desirable plants, requiring very little
water during winter. (Soil No. 18.)
Crphea, a genus of rather unattractive plants were it not
for the very brilliant C. platycintera, which is continually in
bloom with its profusion of tubular, waxy, scarlet-coloured
flowers edged with white and tipped with black: the plant is
of dwarf habit, and does well in almost any locality. (Soil
No. 12.)
Crategus. Theve are none of these belonging to the green-
house; but there is a plant in the collections, known as C.
glabra, which is Photinia serruldta, a native of China, and is
a very handsome plant; has long foliage, deeply serrated,
very shining. P. arbutifolia, a native of California, and is
the finest of the genus; flowers in large dense panicles, foliage
larger than the former, and not so deeply serrated; they are
both comparatively hardy, and we soon expect to see them
acclimated. (Soil No. 11.)
Crinum, several species do well in the green-house, espe-
cially C. Mexicdnum, C. capense, and C. ascética: they re-
quire considerable pot-roc a to make them do well. (Soil
No. 12.) .
Crowea saligna is among one of the finest plants of New
South Wales. It flowers at the axils of the leaves, colour
pink, with five petals, connected by entangled hairs ; in flower
from April to December, and frequently through the winter ;
foliage lanceolate, and a fine green. The plant grows neat,
and requires an airy situation: drain the pots well. (Soil
No. 1.)
Cunénia capénsis, the only species, and a handsome shrub,
with large pinnated shining leaves, beautifully contrasted by
numerous dense, elongated branches of small, white flowers,
and twigs of a red colour, having more the habit of a tropical
than of a Cape of Good Hope plant. (Soil No. 2.)
Cyrtanthus, a genus of Cape bulbs, containing nine species,
and will do very well in the green-house; but we find the
assistance of the hot-house a great advantage. They are
closely allied to Crinum. The tubes of the flowers are long
and round with various shades of orange, yellow, red, ang
228 GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. [ March.
green. ©. oldrus, C. stridtus, C. obliquus, and ©. vittatus,
are the finest. When the bulbs are dormant, which will be
from October to January, they should not get any water;
before they begin to grow, turn the bulbs out of the old
earth, repotting it immediately. At this time they should be
potted with the bulbs of earth entire, which wili cause them
to flower stronger. (Soil No. 12.)
Dampieéras, four species. The genus is named in honour
of Captain W. Dampier, a famous voyager: has Lobelia-like
flowers, either blue or purple. C. purpurea, C. undulata,
and C7. stricta, are the finest; the former two are shrubby;
the latter is herbaceous; they all flower freely. (Soil No. 6.)
Daviésias, above ten species, principally natives of New
South Wales, all yellow papilionaceous flowers. D. dalicina,
D. iatifolia, D. acicularis, and D. incrassdta, are very fine
species, flower and grow freely, and require to be well drained :
bloom from April to August. (Soil No. 6.)
Dillwynias, above twelve species, and plants very little
known. D. cineréscens, D. floribiinda, D. teretifolia, and
D. phylicoides, are desirable plants; flowers small, papilio-
naceous, and colour yellow and red. They are very hable to
suffer from too much wet; while dormant, therefore, the pots
must be effectually drained. (Soil No. 6.)
Diésmas. This pretty genus of heath-looking plants has
recently been very much divided by botanical prozessors.
The genera that they have been given to are Adendndra,
Acmadenia, Agathésma, and Barésma. However, we incline
to adhere to the original name, and recommend D. cupitdta,
D. oppositifolia, D. ribra, D. dlba, D. fragrans, D. unijlora,
D. serratifolia, D. specidsa, and D. pulchélla. They are all
profuse blooming plants, with generally small flowers of a
white lilac or pink colour. It is supposed that the dried
ivaves of pulchélla are used by the Hottentots as powder to
mix with the grease with which they anoint their bodies.
Some travellers assert that it gives them so rank an odour
that they sometimes could not bear the smell of those who
were their guides. In fact, the foliage of all, if rubbed by
the hand while on the plant, has a very strong smell, some of
them very agreeable, others disagreeable. They are all ever-
green, small, neat-growing shrubs. They require, while
growing luxuriantly, to have their young shoots topped te
make them bushy ; drain all the pots well aud keep them ir
March. GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 229
airy situations, and not crowded with other plants, or they
will become slender and unsightly. (Soil No. 6.)
Diplacus puniceus. This shrubby (mimulus) plant was
introduced by Mr. Nuttall, from California, by seeds, in 1836,
and sent by us to England, in 1837. The flowers are of a
scarlet orange, about one inch and a half long, and produce in
pairs, from the axils of the leaves, or young wood; the plant
requires considerable nourishment, for the more rapid it
grows, the more profuse are its flowers, which bloom from
May to September, and are rath‘r showy. In the Southern
States it will prove a hardy shruc, blooming nearly the whole
year. (Soil No. 12.)
Dracena, or Dragon tree. The D. australis and D. férrea
will keep in the green-house, and are attractive plants for
their foliage, especially the latter, which is of a purple crim-
son, and very unique; the flowers are on large terminal spikes.
(Soil No. 11.)
Dorydnthus excélsa, « Yucca-looking plant belonging to the
natural order of Amaryllidea; the leaves arise from the root,
and are about three inches wide and three feet long; the
flowers are bright crimson, surmounted on a stem about
twenty feet high. The plant does not bloom till it is of con-
siderable size. (Soil No. 10.)
Drydéndras. This genus is closely allied in character and
habits to Banksia, and contains above sixteen species. D.
nivea has most beautiful foliage, very long and deeply in-
dented. D. formdsa has a scent like the fruit of an apricot.
D. nervoso, D. floribinda, D. armata, D. plumosa, D. Bax-
téri, D. nervosa, and D. falcata are the most conspicuous, and
all highly desirable plants in collections. They are very
delicate of importation ; flowers are straw and orange-coloured,
and thistle-like. Seedsin small cones. Treat them the same
as directed for Banksias. (Soil No. 6.)
Dyckias, two species of very curious growing plants, of a
dwarf habit, with bright orange flowers; they may be culti-
vated with the aloe tribe, to which they have a similarity.
D. rariflora and D. ramotiflora ; the latter is in the country.
(Soil No. 18.)
Echeverria, a genus of succulent plants chiefly from Mexico
and California. . grandiflora, flowers green and red. #.
pulverulénta, flowers red. The foliage of this species is deli-
eately covered with powder which gives it a very beautiful
230 GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. [ Murch.
appearance. J. bicolor is also a pretty species: they require
to be kept very dry during winter. (Soil No. 10.)
Edwiirdsias, about four species, very beautiful foliaged
plants, and have very curious yellow flowers, but do not
flower until the plant becomes large. H. grandiflora, LH.
chrysophylla, and EL. microphylla, are the best, and are tole-
rably hardy, though doubtful of ever being acclimated. The
flowers are leguminose, foliage ovate, pinnate, from eight to
forty on one footstalk, and appear to be covered with gold
dust. The hardier they are grown, the more visible it will
appear. (Soil No. 11.)
Elichrysums. This genus is now extinct, and two splendid
species of it given to others. JL. proliferum is now Phena-
coma prolifera, and has beautiful purple-rayed flowers, and
highly esteemed: the foliage small, round, ovate, smooth, and
closely imbricated. E. spectdbile is now Aphélexis humilis,
has pine-like foliage, and large light purple flowers. Care
must be taken that they are not over-watered; drain the pots
well. (Soil No. 6.)
Enkidénthus, only two species, both very fine. 2. quingue-
florus has large ovate, acuminate foliage, flowers pink and
pendulous; very handsome. J. reticuldtus, the foliage is
netted, and the flowers blush: they are liable, when dormant,
to suffer from wet. Be sure to drain the pots well, and be
sparing in water while in that state. (Soil No. 11.)
Epdcris, above twelve species, and all very ornamental.
E. grandiflora has been celebrated ever since it was known;
the foliage is small, flat, and acuminate ; flowers tubular and
pendulous; bright crimson, with a tinge of white, and very
abundant; in flower from January to June. L£. pulchélla is
likewise a most beautiful plant; foliage very small and closely
set, flowers pure white, and in long spikes, sweet-scented.
E. impréssa, foliage impressed, and flowers of a rose colour.
E. paludésa, flowers white, grows and flowers very hand-
somely, and is very fragrant. H. purpurdscens ribra is a
variety, with good bright red flowers. 2. pallida, rose-co-
loured, long tubular flowers. 2. nivalis, rosy white. JL.
Townii, beautiful rosy blush colour. These, with several
others, are very desirable. They are mostly erect-growing
plauts; flower from January till August, and a rough, turfy,
sandy soil is found most congenial. They are natives of the
mountainous districts of New South Wales. The pots must
March. ] GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 231
be well drained; the roots will run with avid ty among the
potshreds — (Soil No. 6.)
Ericas, heath. There are in cultivation in Europe above
five hundred and fifty species and varieties of this magnificent
genus. About sixty years agc it consisted only of a few
humble British plants, with the heath of Spain, 2. Mediter-
ranea, which is at present mos. common in our collections,
though in a few years we may expect to see it supplanted by
others more splendid.
In their native countries they are adapted to a great many
useful purposes. In the north Jf Britain the poorer inhabit-
auts cover their cabins or huts with heath, and build the walls
with alternate layers of it and 1 kind of cement made with
straw and clay. They likewise brew ale and distil spirits from
the tender shoots; and it has been known to be used in dye-
ing, tanning, and many other useful domestic purposes. Hn-
comium on their beauty is not requisite; they are almost as
diversified in colour as colour itself. Many are graceful and
elegant; hundreds are pretty; a few noble and splendid;
others grotesque, curious, and odoriferous. To cultivate and
propagate them is considered one of the most delicate branches
of floriculture. Nevertheless, it has been said by a scientific
writer, that “those who complein of the difficulty of grow-
ing the heath, are ignorant people, who have never had a
heath to grow.”” The most sp!endid collection in Europe is
under the care of Mr. M’Nab, of the Royal Botanic Garden,
Edinburgh, where there are twe large houses devoted to their
culture; and through the whole year a continued profusion
of bloom is kept up. Scme of the plants are eight feet in
diameter and fourteen feet high. The soil used is a coarse
sandy peat. Pots drained with potshreds, and pieces of free-
stone are put down the sides of the large pots and tubs; where
these can be had they are essential to the culture of moun-
tainous plants, preventing them frém being saturated with
moisture, or from becoming dry, thus keeping the roots in a
medium state; for if once the roots are allowed to get tho-
roughly dried, no art of the gardener can recover them. This
may be the true reason why they are said to be difficult of
cultivation.
In the summer season, the pots must be kept out of the
violent sun, for in a few hours the pots would become heated,
232 GREEN-HOUSE-—REPOTTING. [ March
dry the rvots, and cause death, or a brownness of foliage
which would never again become natural. In winter, too,
much fire heat will also hurt them. They only require to be
kept free from frost, need a great deal of air, and plenty of
light; consequently, should be placed near the glass, that
they may have the benefit of all the air that is admitted.
Their flowers are as varied in shape as variety or colour, but
they all partake of a wax-like nature, and are very persistent.
(Soil No. 5 for young plants: when older, No. 6 will do
better.)
The finest and most select varieties that appear to withstand
the severity of the simmer are the following:
WHITE FLOWERS. YELLOW FLOWERS. RED FLOWERS.
Arborea, Bélla,
Bowiedna, Capitata, Canalicilata,
Ciffra, Epistéma, Curviflora rubra,
Conferta, Grandiflora. Gracilis,
Jesminaflora, Iqnéscens,
Margaritdcea, SCARLET FLOWERS. Plukenétii,
Odorata, Pinéa,
Pellicida, Ardens, Mediterranea.
Phylicoides. Coccinea,
“grandiflora, PURPLE FLOWERS
Vernix coccinea,
Véstita coccinea. Amena.
Denticuldta, VARIOUS COLOURS
Fascicularis,
Hispidila, Crienta superba,
Mammésa, Abetina, Ribida,
Pubéscens, Baccans, Tubiflora,
Tenella. Cerinthdides. Ventricdsa supérba
Lriabitrya japénica, Loquat, or Mesptlus japénica, is a
fine plant, with large lanceolate, distinctly serrated leaves,
white underneath ; small white flowers on a racemose spike,
and produces a fruit about the size of a walnut, of a fine
yellow blush colour, and of tartish flavour. If it flowers in
the autumn, it will reauire the heat of a hot-house to ripen
March. ] GREEN-HOUSE--REPOTTING. ood
the fruit It is of very easy culture, and its noble aspect is
never passed unobserved. It is perfectly hardy in the Southern
States, and forms a handsome evergreen. (Soil No. 11.)
Erédiums, Heron’s bill. There are about thirty species,
all of a geranium character, and there are among them some
very pretty flowering, soft-wooded, shrubby, herbaceous, and
annual plants. Only a few of them belong to the green-house,
of which #. incarndtum, ELecrassifolium, and HE. lacinidtum
are the finest; culture similar to Geranium. The flowers of
these are scarlet, pentapetalous and veiny. (Soil No. 10.)
Erythivina cristagdlli, or Coral plant. If this magnificent
scarlet flowering plant is desired to be kept in a pot or tub,
it must have a repotting every month till September: to keep
it in fine blooming condition, it is worthy of extra care, as it
will bloom three times during the season, if well treated.
(Soil No. 18.) For other methods, see Flower-Garden for
April, May, and November.
LEscallénia, a shrubby genus, of about ten species, of rather
neat blooming plants, of a strong shrubby habit. They re-
quire great encouragement to flower them well, if kept in pots:
the best mode of treatment would be to plant them in pits with
other half hardy shrubs. £. ribra, red flowering; E£. grandt-
jlora, white; KH. macrantha, a very beautiful evergreen, pro-
fusely covered with waxy pink flowers, are the finest. (Soil
No. 12.) They are perfectly hardy south of Virginia, and we
are not certain but they may become acclimated here.
Hucalyptus, above fifty species of them, and the tallest
growing trees of New Holland; foliage very diversified,
generally of a hard glaucous texture. From their rapid
growth, they soon grow higher than the loftiest house. The
most conspicuous are 7. corddta, FE. rostrata, E. radiata.
Li. pulviygéra, E. globifera, EF pulverulénta, and L. resinifera.
In Van Diemen’s Land, a manufactory has been established
where a tannin is extracted from many of the species. The
last mentioned produces gum like that which the druggists
call Kino. They ought not to be too much fostered, as it
would in some degree retard their growth. They are of a
very hardy nature. When large, the plants will flower freely,
and are similar in flower to Myrtle ; many stamina, proceeding
from a hard nut-like capsule. (Soil No. 6.)
Hucnymus, a few of this genus bsye been recently intro.
20 *
934 GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. [ March.
duced from China and Japan. Such as EL. japonica,* with
its burnished green foliage, and its variety with silver-edged
foliage—L. fimbriata, large dark-green foliage. They all
produce scarlet berries in winter, and are highly ornamental
in the South for hedges, lawns, or edgings. They are green-
house plants in the Eastern and Northern States. (Soil No.
ii be
paler sien There is only one species deserving of culti-
vation in the green-house; flowers syngenesious, white, and
in large flattened panicles; very sweet-scented. The plant,
when growing freely, in the beginning of summer, should be
topped, which would make it more bushy; if not, it is apt to
grow straggling. Known in our collections as #. elegdus.
(Soil No. 8.)
Hutdxias, two species. HH. myrtifolia is a most beautiful
free-flowering evergreen shrub; foliage small, but very neat ;
flowers leguminose, small and very many; colour yellow and
red; grows freely. The young plants should be frequently
topped, or they will grow naked and unsightly. LZ. pingens,:
similar to the other except in foliage. They flower from
March to June, and ought to have a place in every green-
house. Culture very easy. (Soil No. 6.)
Ficus, a few species, are good plants for this department,
especially #. eldstica; leaves smooth, shining green, fre-
quently six inches wide and twelve long: this is the plant
that produces the gum elastic or Indian rubber. F. aus-
tralis is also an excellent evergreen, with elliptic dull-green
foliage; very rusty underneath; they grow almost too freely.
(Soil No. 11.)
Fiichsia, or Ladies’ Ear-drop. There is an endless variety
of this lovely genus of deciduous small shrubs now cultivated,
and are indispensable decorations during the summer and au-
tumnal months for our green-houses, conservatories, piazzas,
and verandahs. If we had only a cellar, a window, or a
piazza, we would have a Fuchsia. Amongst the many scar-
lets we name Alpha, Caroline, Don Giovanna, Kxpansion,
Gem, Orion, and Voltigeur. 'These are very superb varieties ;
some of the flowers are two and a half inches long and two
inches in diameter. The following are light-coloured varieties,
* This plant is in some collections as a variegated-leaved camellia,
eud is perfectly hasly with us. Does well in the shade.
KE
March. | GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 235
indeed nearly white, with a purple or pink centre, forming a
beautiful contrast with the deep crimson and purple sorts;
Elizabeth, Pearl of England, Prince Arthur, Madam Sontag,
Sidonia. To grow these in perfection, they require to be
very frequently shifted, as they advance in growth, till you
have them in pots ten inches wide. Just now, I have plants
only six months from the cutting that are four feet high
and sixteen feet in circumference, loaded with thousands
of flowers, and are the admiration of every beholder. They
require liberal supplies of water. F. /ilgens is a distinct
species; the foliage is very different from any other sort;
leaves of a well-grown plant are four inches wide and five
inches and a half long: the flowers are from two inches and
a half to three inches long, of a pink and scarlet colour, and
the plant is nearly tuberous. We would recommend our
readers to grow them from seeds when obtained: it is well
known they will produce variety, and it is even supposed by
some that the seeds of #. cocctnea have produced by hy-
bridizing nearly all the varieties of the present day, which
exceed one hundred: most of the flowers are a bright scarlet,
the stamens are encircled with a petal of bright purple, and
are of very curious construction; they bear a dark purple
berry, and are of the easiest cultivation; but during summer
the pots must be carefully kept from the sun, although the
plants will not. be affected by it. If the plants are young
and growing freely, we find that a deluge of rain, and after-
wards a hot day, is their instant death. Some of them do
tolerably well when planted in the flower-garden early in
May. (Soil No. 10.)
Fabidna, a genus of new plants that will prove entirely
hardy in the Southern States; they are upright-growing
shrubs, with delicate foliage. F. imbricata is the most popu-
lar, producing a profusion of white tubular flowers about an
inch long, of easy culture in soil No. 12.
Gardoquia Hookéri, a very pretty dwarf plant—native of
the Floridas; it blooms profusely from June to October ;
flowers are about one inch and a half long, of a tubular
labiate form, of a bright orange colour; it is easy of culture
in soil No. 1.
Gelsemium nitidum, Carolina jasmine, a most beautiful
climbing evergreen, flowering shrub. In the months of April
and May it produces many large ;ellow trumpet-like blossoma
256 GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. [Mar h
of delicious fragrance. If much encouraged in growth, it
will not flower so freely. (Soil No. 6.)
Genista: a few of these are very pretty, free-flowering
shrubs. G. ramdsus, G'. canariénsis, G. tricuspiddta, G
cuspidosa, and G'. umbelldta, are the finest green-house spe-
cies. All of them have yellow leguminose flowers in great
abundance; leaves small, lanceolate. (Soil No. 1.)
Geranium, Cranes-bill, a distinct family from the Pelargo-
nium, though adapted to the same culture and even more,
extensively as border or bedding-out plants that ornament the
parterre from May to November with their dazzling scarlet
and bright pink flowers, very generally known as Fish or
Horse-shce geraniums. In pots, they bloom in the green-
house the whole winter ; and where that convenience is not at
hand, they do very well in a dry cellar, free from frost, from
whence take them in April, cut them well down, and plant
them into the garden in rich soil; the cuttings, after being
allowed to dry a few days, may be planted, and will by mid-
summer bloom profusely ; when frost approaches, place them
in their winter quarters. The best are, Brompton Hero, Tom
Thumb, Gem, Royalist and Symmetry, all scarlets ; Flower of
the Day and Queen of Summer, variegated leaved; Luceo
Rosea, Princess Alice and Lady Holmsdale, pinks; not omitting
Hendersonii, the new white-flowered variety.
Gnaphalium, everlasting. There are about ten species,
most of them very splendid, persistent flowers. G. eximia,
has brilliant red flowers. G. spirdlis, G. spectosissima, G.
Sriticans, G. oriantalum, and G. imbricdtum, are all very
fine; pots must be well drained. (Soil No. 8.)
Gortéria personata is the only species that belongs to this
genus, and is an annual. There are several plants in our
collections known as Gortérias, but which properly are Gazd-
nia, of which there are five species. . ringens, when the
flowers are fully expanded (which will only be while exposed
to the sun, closing at night, and opening again with the in.
fluence of the sun’s rays), is a great beauty. The rays of
the flowers are bright orange, and the centre dark purple.
G. pavonia has handsome foliage; flowers similar to G. rin-
gens, except the centre of the flower being spotted, and is
thought to be the finest, but does not flower so freely. G.
heterophylla is of the same character, except the foliage,
which is variable. the colour orange and vermilion. They
March. | GREEN-HOUSE—R£POTTING. 237
are dwarf-growing plants, and during the months of July,
August, and September, are liable to damp off at the surface
of the earth, from the action of heat and too much water.
Pots must be well drained, and the plants kept partially in
the shade. Their flowers are syngenesious, and about two
inches in diameter. (Soil No. 9.)
Habrdnthus, about ten species of small South American
bulbs, nearly allied to Amaryllis. H. Andersdnii, H. versi-
color, H. candida, and H. robusta, are fine; they are in
colour yellow, blue, white, and lilac. We have very little
doubt but these bulbs will do to plant out in the garden in
April, and be lifted in October. Keep them from frost.
Thus treated, they are very desirable. (Soil No. 12.)
Helychrysums, above forty species, chiefly belonging to the
green-house—all everlasting flowers. 1. grandiflorum, Hi.
arboreum, H. fragrans, H. adoratissimum, H. friiticans, and
i. fillgidum, are all very esteemed species, mostly with soft
downy foliage. The pots should be well drained, and the
plants kept in an airy situation, as they suffer from the least
damp. If the flowers are cut off before they fade, they will
retain for many years all the splendour of their beauty; but
if allowed to decay on the plant, they will soon become musty,
and all their colour fade. (Soil No. 6.)
Hibbértias, about ten species. Three of them are known
to be fine climbing evergreen shrubs, namely, H. glossular-
iefolia; H. dentata; H. volubilis, if closely approached, has
a disagreeable smell; H. fasciculdta, H. Saligna, and H.
peduneuldta, are evergreen shrubs; they have pure yellow
flowers of five petals, blooming from May to September.
(Soil No. 12.)
Hoveas, about eight species, pretty plants of New South
Wales, blue pea-flowering evergreen shrubs; the finest are
Hf. panésa, H. atropurpirea, H. linearis, H. rosmarinifolia,
Hi. longifolia, and H. Oélsii, which is the most superb, and
flowers in abundance. They grow and flower freely ; the pots
should be drained. (Soil No. 6.)
Hypéricums, St. John’s wort, about twenty species. A few
of them are very showy, and with few exceptions have yellow
flowers. H. monégynum, H. balearicum, H. jloribindum,
H. canariense, H. egyptiacum and H. cochin-chinénse, which
has scarlet flowers, are among the best, and all of them flower
freely ; five petals, filaments many in three or five parcels
238 GREEN-HOUSE-—REPCTTING. [March
They are all of very easy cultivation, and bloom generally
from April to September. (Soil No. 11.)
Hydrangea horténsis is a well-known plant, and much
esteemed for its great profusion of very elegant, though mon-
strous flowers. ‘They are naturally of a pink colour, but
under certain circumstances of culture they become blue. If
grown in brown loam with a little sand, they will preserve
their original colour; but if grown in swamp earth with a
little mould of decayed leaves, they will become blue.*
The swamp earth and vegetable mould being more combinea
with aluminous salt than brown loam, is the cause of the
change: and, when first found out (which was merely by
chance), was thought a great wonder. It must have a very
plentiful supply of water when in flower, which is produced on
the shoots of the previous year. They will neither grow nor
flower well if they are not kept constantly in the shade.
When kept in the sun, the foliage is very brown; and by
being neglected in watering, we have seen the flowers com-
pletely scourged. H. japdénica, a new variety with pink
flowers, and the same disposition to change colour, a little fra-
grant. Being tolerably hardy, when the winters are mild, by -
a little protection in the open air, they will flower profusely ;
the flowers will be very large, and in bloom from June to Oc-
tober. 'They are deciduous, soft-wooded shrubs.
Llex, Holly, of L. aquifolium. There are above one hun-
dred of them in cultivation in Europe, differing in variegation,
margin shape, and size of the leaves: some are onl prickly
on the margin of the foliage, others prickly over all jg sur-
face. In Europe they are all hardy, but with us few or none
of the varieties are so. If they become acclimated, they’ will
be a great ornament to our gardens, being all Jow evergreen
shrubs. The most common and conspicuous vai/eties ans the
hedge-hog, striped hedge-hog, white hedge, gold edged, and
painted; the flowers are white and small, berries yellow or
red ; they do not agree with exposure to the sun. JL. Cassine
and J. vomitoria have very bitter leaves, and, though natives
of Carolina, we have to give them the protection of a green-
house. It is said that at certain seasons of the year the In-
*® Mix the iron sparks from the blacksmith’s shop with any kind of
coil, and they will be a beautiful blue. One and a half quarts to 9
bushel will do.
=
March.) GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 239
dians make a strong decoction of the leaves, which makes
them vomit freely, and after drinking and vomiting for a few
days they consider themselves sufficiently purified. (Soil No
15.) ¥
Lllictums, Anise-seed tree, three species. J. fleridanum has
very sweet-scented, double purple flowers, and the plant grows
freely and systematically if properly treated, and deserves
particular attention. J. parviflorum has small yellow flowers ;
I. anisdtum is so very like LZ parviflorum in every respect as
to make us conclude they are the same, were J. anisdétuwm not
a native of China, and the other two natives of Florida.
When the leaves and capsules of either of them are rubbed,
they have a very strong smell of anise; they grow very freely.
(Soil No. 1.)
Indigofera; Indigo tree, about twenty species, belong to
the green-house, and are chiefly pretty free-flowering shrubs.
I. denudata, [. amena, I. australis, I. anguldata, I. candi.
cans, and I. filifolia, are very fine; flowers papilionaceous, in
long panicles; colour various, red, blue, yellow and pink.
(Soil No. 6.)
Jacksénias, a genus consisting of five species. The foliage
is varied, and all natives of New South Wales. J. scoparia,
J. hérrida, and J. reticulata, are the finest; the small flowers
come out of the young shoots, are yellow and papilionaceous;
the pots should be well drained. (Soil No. 6.)
Jambosa vulgaris, or Hugenia jdmbds, is a splendid ever-
green tree, producing a fruit of an agreeable odour and called
rose apple. J. australis has a very neat habit, and produces
purple fruit; they are of the earliest culture in soil No. 12.
Jasminum, Jasmine. . purpurea, dark red. There is one that
has got into our collections as double white, which is only
semi-double. NV. olednder elegantissimum, a most beautiful
plant with deep silver-edged foliage; and the young wood is
striped white and green. There are likewise single yellow
single white, and single blotched varieties of N. olednder
They are subject to the small white scaly insect, and shoule
be frequently washed, as has been directed, to keep it off
(Soil No. 12.)
Oleas, Olive, about twelve species and varieties. O. Hu-
ropea longifolia is the species that is cultivated -to such an
extent in the south of France, and Italy. O. Europea
latifolia is chiefly cultivated in Spain. The fruit is larger
than that of Italy, but the oil is not so pleasant, which is
obtained by crushing the fruit to a paste, and pressing it
through a woollen bag, adding hot water as long as any oil is
yielded. The oil is then skimmed off the water, and put into
barrels, bottles, &e., for use. The tree seldom exceeds thirty
feet, and is a branchy, glaucous evergreen, and is said to be
of great longevity. Some plantations at Turin, in Italy, are
supposed to have existed from the time of Pliny. It fre-
quently flowers in our collections, but seldom carries fruit ;
flowers white, in small racemose axillary spikes. 0. capénsis
has thick, large, oblong foliage; flowers white in large ter-
21*
246 GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. [ March
minal panicles. O. verrucosa, foliage flat, lanceolate, and
white beneath, branches curiously warted. O. fragrdns blooms
in winter; foliage and blossoms are both highly odoriferous ;
the plant is much esteemed in China, and is said to be used
to adulterate and flavour teas. Leaves are elliptic, lanceolate,
and a little serrated; flowers white in lateral bunches. It is
subject to the small white scaly insect, and ought to be care-
fully kept from them by washing. O. résea has pink flowers.
O. paniculata is also a fine species. They are all very easily
cultivated. (Soil No. 11.)
Oxylobiums, seven species, plants very similar to Callista-
chys, with ovate, cordate, light-coloured pubescent foliage, with
papilionaceous flowers. 0. obtusifolium has scarlet flowers ;
O. retisum, orange flowers ; and O. ellipticwm, yellow flowers.
They grow freely and should be well drained; flower from
Me to August. (Soil No. 6.)
Passiflora ; a celebrated genus of climbing plants, called in
common ‘ Passion Vine.” Those belonging to the green-
house, flower during summer. Several of them are both
beautiful and profuse in bloom, especially P. Kermdsine, P.
princéps, P. hybrida, P. fragrans, P. Newmannia, P. Lemo-
chentziana, and are a very distinct species; the former is of a
beautiful rosy crimson colour. (Soil No. 15.)
Pelargoniums, Stork’s Bill. This genus, so universally
known among us as Gerdnium, from which it was separated
many years ago, is a family of. great extent and variety, for
which we are principally indebted to the Cape of Good Hope.
There are many hundred species, with upwards of twelve
hundred beautiful and well-marked varieties, which have been
obtained from seed. They are of every character, colour, and
shade, of the most vivid description. The easy cultivation of
the Pelargonium tribe, or Gerdniums, as they are commonly
called, has rendered them very popular ; also the agreeableness
of scent and fragrance, of which many of them are possessed,
makes them favourites.
Their flowering season is also of considerable duration, espe-
cially the bright scarlet and crimson varieties, which bloom
from March till August, rendering them quite indispensable
in collections. Some growers complain of their straggling
habits; but it is only those that do not know how to prune
them: even some of the choice kinds of the present day could
not be made to grow irregu.asly—such as Ajax, Forget-me-not,
Ps
March.] GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 247
Orion, Virgin Queen, and others; indeed, within these few
years, the habits and beauties of the plant are improved a
hundred fold, and those who are only acquainted with the old
sorts would be transported with a view of the dazzling and
beauteous colony of the new kinds that have been procured
by hybridizing those of good habit and character.
The best method to adopt in impregnating these is to choose
the female, one that has large flowers, of easy cultivation, and
as nearly allied in character and other habits as possible.
When a flower of the intended female is newly expanded,
take a pair of very fine-pointed scissors, and cut off the
anthers before the pollen expands; then, as soon as the
summit of the style divides, apply the pollen taken from the
anthers of the intended male plant on a very fine camel hair-
pencil, or cut out the stigma entirely, and place the anther on
the summit of the style, which, if correctly done, will have
the desired effect. As soon as the seed is ripe sow it in light
sandy soil; and when it has come up, take care not to over-
water the soil, which would cause them to damp off. When
they are about one inch high, put them into small pots, and
treat as the other varieties. Have them all distinctly marked
until they flower, which will be in the second year from the
time of sowing.
The tuberous and fleshy stemmed species are very interest-
ing to the discriminating inquirer. Their habit and constitu-
tion are so peculiar that we have frequently wondered that
they have not been separated into distinct genera. The cul-
tivation of them is more difficult, water being very prejudi-
cial to them when they are inactive. If they are well
managed, they flower beautifully, and the colours are very
superior and peculiar, having frequently bright green and
purple in the same flower.
The following list comprehends the most desirable varieties
that we have seen :—
248 GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. [ March.
PURE WHITE, RED OR SCARLET,
MARKED OR STRIPED WITH WITH STRIPES OR SPOTS.
kd
MARKED OR COLOUREE WITH
RED OR CRIMSON.
RED, PURPLE, OR CRIMSON. arent
“.
Lord Warden, Alderman,
Pearl, Chieftain,
Queen of Scots, Forget-me-not,
White Flag, King,
Village Maid, Perfection,
Virgin Queen, Orion,
Witch. South Western.
Talisman.
BLUSH,
MARKED OR STRIPED with VERY DARK CRIMSON,
RED, Ere. OR PURPLE,
Acme, MARKED WITH BLACK.
Juliette, az 1
Miss Holford, rae iF
Paragon, Enchantress,
Symmetry. Mustii,
Negress
PINK, Ocellataras
Sir Walter Raleigh,
Sir Henry Smyth,
lara Salamander.
Blood Royal,
Elise, FANCY COLOURS,
Hebe’s Li
Matilda, P, OF wants SHADES.
Nestor. Anais,
Anatholie,
ROSH, Clown,
Harleauin,
WITH STRIPES OR SPOTS . Jenny Lind,
Hebe, Jehu,
Paragon, La Belle Africaine,
Rosa, Marion,
Hector, Queen Superba,
Mark Antony, Statuiskii,
Rosy circle. Wintonia.
Yarch | GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 249
VARIOUS, CURIOUS, AND FINE Ivy leaved, pink, \ Cried
/
SORTS. Ivy leaved, white,
Apple scented, Lemon scented,
Bicolor, Nutmeg scented,
Blanfordianum, Rose scented, &e.
Comptonianum,
There are several others very recently introduced, which
have not bloomed so as to allow us to judge of their merits;
but their foreign characters are highly flattering. The re-
potting of the geranium tribe should be done as early in the
month as possible, or even about the end of last month would
be advisable in some seasons. (Soil No. 12, with a little
more manure. )
Phérmium ténax, New Zealand flax lily, the only species ;
foliage resembling an Jris, and very thready. In New Zea-
land and Norfolk Island the natives manufacture from this
plant a kind of stuff like coarse linen, cordage, &c.; the plant
is very hardy, and we would be nowise surprised to see it stand
the severity of our winters. It bears exposure to the open
air in Kurope in the fifty-sixth degree of north latitude. The
flowers are said to be yellow and lily-like; of the easiest cul-
ture. (Soil No. 7.)
Phylicas, above twenty-five species. Several of them are
very pretty-growing evergreen shrubs, and of easy culture,
P. horizontdlis, P. squarrésa, P. imbricata, P. myrtifolia, P.
callosa, P. bicolor, and P. ericotdes, are all neat-growing ;
flowers small white, in heads: drain the pots well, and keep
them in an airy situation. The foliage of several of the
species is downy. (Soil No. 6.)
Phasedlus caracdlla, or snail flower, is a very curious
_ blooming plant, with flowers of a greenish yellow, all spirally
twisted, in great profusion when the plant is well grown.
(Soil No. 12.)
Phenix dactylifera, common date palm; a plant that
attains a large size and of rather a rugged appearance; its
fruit is the common well-known date. (Soil No. 12.)
Pimileas, about fourteen species. Most of them are highly
esteemed, and are not often seen in our collections. P.
decussdta is the finest of the genus, both in foliage and
flowers, which are red, and in large terminal clusters. P. his-
pida, P. rosea, P. “inifolia, P. spicata, and P. spectabilis, are
250 GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. [ March.
all fine species. The latter has very beautiful lanceolate
foliage and of an elegant habit. They should be well drained.
They are very small evergreen shrubs, with white, red, or pink
flowers. (Soil No. 6.)
Pistacias, seven species of trees, principally of the south
of Kurope. There is nothing particular in their appearance,
except their productions in their native country. P. terebin-
thus is deciduous, and produces the Cyprus turpentine. P.
lentiscus is the true mastich tree, which is obtained by cutting
transverse incisions in the bark. /P. vera, P. reticuldta are
good species; leaves pinnated; leaflets ovate, lanceolate ;
easily cultivated. (Soil No. 2.)
Pitidsporums, about nine species, sail handsome foliage,
and small white flowers in clusters, which are fragrant. P.
tobira is a native of China, and nearly hardy; leaves lucid,
obovate, obtuse, and smooth; there is a beautiful variegated
variety of it. P. unduldtum, P. coridceum, P. revolitum,
P. filvum, and P. ferrugineum are very ornamental ever-
greens, and will grow with the most simple treatment. (Soil
No. 13.)
Platylobiums, Flat Pea, four species of fine free-flowering
plants, flowers leguminose; colour yellow. P. formodsum, P.
ovdtum and P. trianguldre are the best; the foliage of the
former two is cordate ovate; the latter hastate, with spiny
angles. (Soil No. 6.)
Plumbagos, Lead-wort. The two most beautiful species
for green-house culture are P. capensis, of a beautiful light
blue, flowering in spikes from June to December ; foliage pale
green, oblong, entire, and glaucous—P. Larpanta, Lady
Larpant’s Leadwort, is of a very dwarf habit, small dark
greenish-brown foliage, crowned with flowers of the finest
azure blue, and is tolerably hardy in the open ground; in
fact, they are both perfectly hardy in the Southern States.
(Soil No. 1.)
Podalyrias, about fourteen species of pretty Cape sbrubs;
foliage oblong, obovate, and silky-like; the flowers legumi-
nose; colour blue or pink. VP. sericea, P. styracifolia, P.
coriscans, P. argentea, P. lipariotdes, and P. subiflora, are
the finest and most distinct species, and flower abundantly.
(Soil No. 6.)
Proieas, about forty-four species. The foliage of this
genus is very diversified: flowers very large, terminal ; stamens
Con,
me RP
March. GREEN-HOUSE—-REPOTTING. 251
protected by an involucrum, many-leaved and imbricated ;
which is very persistent. P. cynarotdes has the largest
flower, which is purple, green, and red. P. speciosa, P. wm-
ponalis, once P. longifolia, P. melaleuca, P. grandiflora, P.
cocctneu, P. cenocdrpa, P. pallens, P. formosa, P. magnifica,
P. speciosa rubra, and P. mellifera, will afford a very good
variety. It is almost impossible to describe their true colour,
it being so various; red, white, straw, brown, green, and pur-
ple, are most predominant, and frequently to be seen in the
same flower. The plants must be well drained; and during
warm weather be careful that they are not neglected in water,
for if they are suffered to droop, they seldom recover. For
this reason the pots ought not to stand in the strong sun;
the plants can bear it, but to the roots it is injurious. (Soil
No. 9.)
Pultneas, about forty species, pretty little dwarf-growing
shrubs of New South Wales; flowers, small, leguminose, all
yellow with a little red outside of the petals. P. subumbel-
lata, P. villosa, P. obcordata, P. argéntea, P. plumosa, P
flexilis, shining-leaved, fragrant; P. candida, and P. stricta,
are all fine species, and esteemed in collections. The leaves
are all small; they require an airy exposure, and the pots
drained. (Soil No. 6.)
Rhodochiton volubile, or Lophorspérmum rhodochiton : this
is a very fine climbing plant, with large tubular dark brown
flowers, blooming from July to October ; it is of rapid growth,
and is an excellent plant for the flower-garden. The plant
must have frequent repotting to make it grow rapidly, for the
finer it grows the more profusely it flowers. (Soil No. 12.)
Rhododéndrons (Rose tree), a magnificent genus, and con-
tains some of the most superb and gigantic plants that adorn
the green-house. At present the most admired is R. arboreum,
with its varieties. It has deep crimson flowers, with dark
spots and flakes campanulated, and in large clusters; leaves
lanceolate, acute, rough and silvery beneath. FR. arboreum
album is very rare. Lt. arboreum superbum, flowers same
shape as arborewm, colour bright rosy scarlet; foliage one-
third larger, but not silvery beneath; grows freely, and gene-
rally thought the finest variety. 2. arborea alta- Clarence is
also very superb, LR. arborea, Russelidnum, pictum, venistum,
guttdtum, tigrinum, noblednum, grandiflorum, spectabile, are
all very distinct; but there are so many other varieties from
eS
252 GREEN-ILOUSE—REPOTTING [March
seed that they will soon be so much amalgamated that the
named sorts will not be distinguished. A green-house with-
out some of the choice varieties of this plant is deficient of a
flower whose beauty and grandeur are beyond the highest
imagination. It is a native of Nepaul, in India, and when
found by Dr. Wallach, awakened the ambition of every culti-
vator and connoisseur in Europe.* There are several other
species lately brought from that country, which are highly
valued: the species are R. campanulatum, R. anthopogon,
and R. cinnamomum. They are rarely seen in our collections.
There is also another new addition to this already majestic
family, discovered by Doctor Hooker, in the Himalaya Moun-
tains, which for gorgeous splendour is supposed will surpass
all their predecessors; the foliage of many of them are cer-
tainly distinct and unique in all its parts. We have also a
brilliant yellow species, KR. javanicum, from Japan; it is
novel and beautiful, blooming when the plants are only about
a foot high—an indispensable sort. The pots should be well
drained, and if they are large, put several pieces of sandy
stone or potshreds around the side, for the fine fibres delight
to twine about such, being mountainous plants. When grow-
ing, give copious waterings at the root. For young plants,
soil No. 6. And for blooming plants use one portion of leaf
mould.
Roéllas, pretty leafy shrubs, with blue terminal funnel-
shaped flowers, lip-spreading; &. cilidta, R. spicata, and R.
pedunculdta are the finest of the genus. The pots must be
well drained, and care taken that they are not over-watered.
(Soil No. 6.)
Sdlvia (Sage) is an extensive genus of soft-wooded, shrub
by, or herbaceous plants; very few of them do well in the
green-house, and many of them are very trifling, having no
other attraction than the flower; and those of the tender
species, when compared with S. fdélgens, crimson, S. splén-
dens, scarlet, S. angust/félia, pale blue, S. pdtens, dark blue,
S. involucrata, pink (which in artificial climates constitute
the standard of the genus), are not worth cultivation. The
best method to adopt with the summer flowering kinds is to
plant them in the garden in May: they will grow strong and
* Mr. Hogg, the eminent horticulturist of New York, raised the
first plant of arboreum from seed in England.
March.] GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTINU. 25%
flower abundantly, and in the fall they can be lifted and pre-
served during winter in pots. They neither grow nor flower
so well as when planted out, and even a slip planted in the
ground in moist weather will root in a few days, grow, and
flower in a few weeks. WS. spléndens is the best to select for
the purpose. All will grow easily with encouragement. (Soil
No. 12.)
Scottias, three species of valuable plants; S. dentdta, with
rosy leguminose blossoms; leaves opposite, ovate, acuminate,
serrate; S. angustifolia, has brown flowers; S. trapezifor-
mus, leaves ovate, acute, serrulate. We do not know the
colour of its flowers ; the pots must be well drained, and the
plants kept in the warmest part of the green-house, and near
the light. (Soil No. 6.)
Seneécios. Some species of this genus are pestiferous weeds
all over th: world. They are even found near the limits of
perpetual snow, where neither tree nor shrub is able to rear its
head, and yet there are a few species that are neat little
plants, and are worthy of a situation, namely, S. grand/flo-
rus, S. venistus, and WS. cinerdscens, with the double white,
purple, and red variety of S. élegans. The last three varie-
ties are free flowering, but if allowed to grow several years,
they become unsightly. Being very easily propagated, a few
cuttings of them should be put in in September, and in two
weeks they will strike root, when they may be put in pots to
keep through the winter, and then planted in the garden, con-
tinuing to renew them. ‘The other mentioned species should
be frequently done the same way. Do not keep them damp
during winter, or they will rot off. Give them an airy expo-
sure. (Soil No. 12.)
Sollya heterophylla: a good climbing plant, with bright
blue clusters of drooping flowers; it is a native of New Hol-
land, and will prove a hardy plant south of latitude 36°
(Soil No. 4.)
Sparrmdnnias are strong-growing green-house shrubs. _S.
Africdna is a plant very common in our -collections, with
large three-lobed cordate leaves, hairs on both sides; flowers
from March to July. S. rugésa. The leaves are rugged;
flowers of both are white, in a kind of corymb, supported by
a long footstalk; buds drooping, flowers erect. ‘There is a
plant known in our collections as the free flowering Sparr-
mdnnia (which is Hntélia arboréscens), and is easily distin-
22
254 GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. [March |
guished from Spurrmdnnia by the leaves being cordate, acu-
minate, ead otherwise, by all its filaments being fertile, and
the flowers more branching, and blooming from November to
June, protusely; very easily cultivated, and desirable. (Soil
No. 12.)
Spherolobiums, only two species of leafless plants, with
yellow and red leguminose flowers, which proceed from the
young shoots. S. vimineum and S. medium. They flower
freely, and are easily cultivated. The old wood should be
frequently cut out where it is practicable. Drain the pots.
(Soil No. 6.)
Sprengélia incarnata, the only species, a very pretty plant,
allied to Epdcris; foliage acuminate, embracing the stem ;
flowers small, pink, bearded, and in close spikes; grows freely.
The pots must be well drained, and the plants, when dormant,
watered sparingly; for if they get sodden about the roots,
they very seldom recover. (Soil No. 6.)
Strelitzia, or queen plant: a genus of fine plants belonging
to the natural order of Musacea. WS. regina, S. ovdta, and
S. humilis are the most free and beautiful flowering species,
and are very similar, except in habit. The flower-stalk is
from one to two feet long, producing about five flowers of a
bright yellow, having a large blue stigma, which forms a dis-
tinct contrast. WS. jéncea and SN. parviflora are also desirable
species, but are more rare than the former, which ought to be
in every green-house. (Soil No. 19.)
Streptocarpus rhéxit, a free-blooming dwarf plant, of easy
culture in soil No. 4.
Styphélias, seven species of very showy flowers, with mu-
cronate leaves; corolla in long tubular form, having several
bundles of hairs in it; segments reflex and bearded. S.
tubiflora, crimson ; S. triflora, crimson and green; S. adscén-
dens, and WS. longifléra, are beautiful species. They grow
freely, and should be well drained, as too much water is very
hurtful to them. In summer, they ought not to be much ex-
posed to the hot sun, or the foliage will become brown. (Soil
No. 6.)
Sutherlandia frutéscens, very similar to Swainsdnia ;
flowers fine scarlet. (Soil No. 2.)
Swainsonias, four species of free-flowering, soft-wooded
shrubs, natives of New South Wales. SS. galegifolia, S.
coronillefolia, aud S. astragalifolia, are red, purple, and
March.] GREEN-HOusSE—REPOTTING. 255
white; leguminose flowers in spikes from the axils, are of
easy culture and deserving of a situation; the foliage is pin-
nate; leaves ovate, acute. (Soil No. 2.)
Tecoma is a genus of beautiful flowering plants, separated
from Bignénia. They are of easy culture and desirable in
all collections. 7. capénsis has bright orange flowers in large
clusters, and very profuse on large plants. TZ. australis,
known as Bignonia pandora, has white and pink flowers in
great profusion. 7’. jasmindidvs is quite a new plant, produc-
ing very large clusters of white flowers, with a bright pink
centre; it is a charming plant for climbing, and the foliage is
of a very agreeable shining green. The plants require en-
couragement. (Soil No. 10.)
Testudindria, Elephant’s foot, or Hottentot’s bread, two
species remarkable for their appearance. The root or bulb,
if it may be so called, is of a conical shape, and divided into
transverse sections. Those of one foot diameter are computed
to be one hundred and fifty years of age. It is a climbing
herbaceous plant, with entire reniform leaves of no beauty ;
flowers small; colour green. The pots must be well drained,
for when the plant is inactive, it is in danger of suffering
from moisture, and ought not to get any water. 7. elephdn-
tipes and T. montana are the species, natives of the Cape of
Good Hope, and require the warmest part of the house. (Soil
No. 10.)
Thea : a genus celebrated over the known world as furnish-
ing the domestic drug called Teu. T. viridis, and 7. bohéa
are said to be the species which supply the tea. Some have
asserted that there is only one shrub used, but by examina-
tion it may be easily perceived that there are leaves of various
shape and texture, some of them similar to Camellia sesanqua.
Dr. Abel gives an explicit detail of the growing and manu-
facturing process of tea, from which, in compliment to our
fair patrons, we give a few extracts:
“The tea districts of China extend from the twenty-seventh
to the thirty-first degree of north latitude. It seems to sue-
ceed best on the sides of mountains. ‘The soil from which I
collected the best specimens consisted chiefly of sandstone
schistus, or granite. ‘The plants are raised from seeds sown
where they are to remain. Three or more are dropped into
a hole four or five inches deep; these come up without farther
trouble, and require !i*‘'e culture, except that of removing
256 GREEN-HOUSE—REDPOTIING. [ March.
weeds, till the plants are three years old. The more careful
stir the soil, and some manure it, but the latter practice is
seldom adopted. The third year the leaves are gathered, at
three successive gatherings, in February, April, and June,
and so on until the bushes become stunted or slow in their
growth, which generally happens in from six to ten years.
They are then cut in to encourage the production of fresh
roots.
“The gathering of the leaves is performed with care and
selection. The leaves are plucked off one by one; at the first
gathering only the unexpanded and tender are taken; at the
second those that are of full growth; and at the third the
coarsest. The first forms, what is called in Hurope, imperial
tea; but, as to the other names by which tea is known, the
Chinese know nothing; and the compounds and names are
supposed to be made and given by the merchants at Canton,
who, from the great number of varieties brought to them, have
an ample opportunity of doing su. Formerly it was thought
that green tea was gathered exclusively from 7. viridis ; but
that now is doubtful, though it is certain that there is what
is called the green tea district and black tea district ; and the
varieties grown in the one district differ from those of the
other. I was told by competent persons that either of the
two plants will afford the black or green tea of the shops, but
that the broad thin-leaved plant (7. viridis) is preferred for
making the green tea.
“The tea leaves being gathered, are cured in houses which
contain from five to twenty small furnaces, about three feet
high each, having at top a large flat iron pan. There is also
a long low table covered with mats, on which the leaves are
laid, and rolled by workmen, who sit around it: the iron pan
being heated to a certain degree, by a little fire made in the
furnace underneath, a few pounds of the fresh-gathered leaves
are put upon the pan; the fresh and juicy leaves crack when
they touch the pan, and it is the business of the operator to
shift them as quickly as possible, with his bare hands, tilt
they cannot be easily endured. At this instant he takes off
the leaves with a kind of shovel resembling a fan, and pours
them on the mats before the rollers, who, taking small quan-
tities at a time, roll them in the palms of their hands in one
direction, while others are fanning them, that they may coo!
the more speedily, and retain their curl the longer. This pro:
March. | GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 257
cvss is repeated two or three times, or oftener, before the tea
is put into the stores, in order that all the moisture of the
leaves may be thoroughly dissipated, and their curl more com-
pletely preserved. On every repetition the pan is less heated,
and the operation performed more closely and cautiously
The tea is then separated into the different kinds, and depo-
sited in the store for domestic use or exportation.
“The different sorts of black and green arise not merely
from soil, situation, or the age of the leaf; but after winnow-
ing the tea, the leaves are taken up in succession as they fall ;
those nearest the machine, being the heaviest, are the gun-
powder tea; the light dust the worst, being chiefly used by
the lower classes. That which is brought down to Canton then
undergoes a second roasting, winnowing, packing, &c., and
many hundred women are employed for these purposes.”
Kzempfer asserts that a species of Caméllia as well as Olea
Fragrans is used to give it a high flavour.
Tacsonia, a genus of plants much resembling Passifloras,
both in flower and habits. 7. pinnatistipulata and 7. mollis,
when planted into the ground and trained up the rafters of
the green-house, make a pretty appearance with their profu-
sion of rosy blush-coloured flowers. (Soil No. 13.)
Tropedlum, a genus of generally delicate-growing plants,
principally from South America. They require nicety of
treatment to bloom them well, unless a large bulb can be
procured, when it may be planted’ in a seven-inch pot, and
will then flower without farther care by training their delicate
shoots on a wire trellis, or small twigs of branches stuck in
the pots. 7. tricolorim, T. tricolorum supérbum, and T.
pentaphyllum have beautiful scarlet flowers marked with yel-
low and biack, and are superb and lovely when in bloom. 7
brachyseras has yellow flowers. (Soil No. 10.)
Verbéna. The beauty of the green-house in spring and
the flower-garden in summer is greatly augmented by the
late introduction of this lovely family of perpetual flowering
plants. There are among them every shade of colour, from
the richest scarlet to the purest white, and in addition to the
beauty and profusion of their flowers, several of them are ex:
quisitely scented. V. chamedryfolia, or melindres, was the
frst scarlet species introduced, and it is yet pretty.
NO*
258 GREEN -HOUSE—REPOTTING. [ March.
WHITES. RED.
Americana, St. Marguirette,
White F erfection. Gen. Courtigies.
BLUSH WHITE, SCARLET CRIMSON.
With Red or Rose Eye. Defiance,
Benoist de Lisle. Se
Montonii,
mma, h
Eva, Phenomenon.
Mrs. W. W. Keen,
Pauline, BLUE.
Reine de Jour. Andrew,
Heroine,
ROSE. Richard Fetters.
Ktiole de Venus,
Gen. Changarnier, PURPLE.
ea Melvina,
ape lnen ns Model of Perfection
Mottled and Striped.
Iphogene, ara pee
Kclipse, Perfection,
La Gracious. Fanny.
These are principally new varieties of perfect formation ;
the flowers in some are as large as a quarter-dollar, far out-
vying those cultivated a few years ago. It is only fifteen
years since I grew the first white, pink, and crimson verbena,
from seed received from Buenos Ayres. They created a very
great excitement in the floral world, both in this country and
Europe. Now there are thousands produced from seed an-
nually. In England, they bear the titled names of Ladies,
Marquesses and Queens, commanding a very high price ; but
with all their titles, none of them excel a few of those named
above. They require very little water during winter, and
should be kept on a dry airy shelf till February, when the
pots may be enlarged, except those intended for the garden,
which can be planted out about the middle of April. Cut-
tings of the young shoots, placed in sandy soil and covered
March.] GQREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. 25Y
with a glass, will root in a few weeks. The whole family
should be industriously collected and cultivated; for truly we
are not acquainted with a tribe of plants that will give as much
satisfaction with as little cost and trouble: they naturally
grow on hills and elevated plains,so that they must not be
kept wet. (Soil No. 9.)
Verdnica, an extensive genus of plants that are cultivated
largely as ornaments for the flower-garden. Within these
few years some very beautiful species have been discovered in
New Zealand. Among them is V. specidsa, a picture of a
plant with foliage equal to a Camellia, producing spikes about
three inches long, of bright purple flowers, fading to a pale
blush. V. Lindleyana, with ovate lanceolate leaves, and
spikes of delicate blush flowers; blooming in winter. V
Andersonii, spikes of flowers opening blue, and changing to
white, in flower from August to Christmas. They are of the
simplest culture—growing freely and symmetrically in soil
Now:
Vimindria denudata, the only species. This plant is re-
markable for its twiggy appearance, but it has no foliage, ex-
cept when growing from seed. It has at the extremity of the
twigs or shoots an ovate, lanceolate leaf, disappearing when
the plant grows old; the flowers are small, yellow, coming out
of the young shoots, to the astonishment of the beholder. It
grows freely. (Soil No. 6.)
Vibirnums. A few of these are very ornamental evergreen
shrubs, and almost hardy. V. ¢inus is the well-known Lau-
restine (or what is commonly called Laurestinus), is of the
easiest culture; flowers small, white, and in large flattened
panicles; blooming from February to May, and universally
esteemed. It will stand the winter by a little protection, but
the flower-buds being formed in the fall, the intense frost
destroys them; consequently, it will not flower finely, except
it be protected from severe frost. V. dicidum is a good
species, and superior in flower and foliage to the former, but
does not flower so freely when the plants are small. When
they grow large, they flower profusely. There is a desirable
variegated variety. V. odoratissimum has smooth, evergreen,
oblong elliptic, distinctly toothed leaves, and frequently a stripe
in them, is sweet-scented, but not a free-flowerer. V. hirstitum
has flowers similar to the above; foliage ovate, with rougk
brown hairs on both sides, and “ery characteristic. V. série
260 GREEN-HOUSE—REPOTTING. [ March
tum variegatum is a very fine variety, and upright growing.
These plants are all very desirable, blooming early in spring,
and continuing for several months; all easily cultivated.
(Soil No. 17.)
Westringias, a genus of four species, very like the common
Rosemary. W. rosmariniformis, leaves lanceolate, and sil-
very beneath. W. longifolia is similar; both have small
silvery-white flowers, and are easily cultivated. (Soil No. 2.)
Witsénias, four species. W. corymbosa is a plant that has
stood in high estimation ever since it was known, but, unfor-
tunately, there is a very inferior plant. Aristéa cyanea got
into our collections under that name. ‘The panicles of W.
corymbosa are quite smooth; those of Ar/stéa are hairy, which
is itself sufficient to detect them; but otherwise the appear-
ance of W. corymbdsa is much stronger and more erect grow-
ing, not inclining to push at the rootsso much as Aristéa.
The foliage is lanceolate and amplexicaule, the leaves having
much the nature and appearance of Jris. The plant is of
easy culture, and blooms from July to November ; colour fine
blue. W. ramosa is a very fine species, similar to the above;
flowers yellow and blue; plant branching. (Soil No. 8.)
Yiicca aloefolia, and its beautiful variety variegata, are de-
sirable plants. They do not bloom till they have grown to
considerable size; but still they make a decided contrast
among other plants; the flowers are white and produced ou
terminal spikes. (Soil No. 11.)
Zamias, about twenty species, eight of which belong to this
compartment. The foliage is greatly admired, and is in large
fronds, with oblique, lanceolate leaflets. Several of them
glauceous. They bear heads of flowers of a brown colour in
the centre of the plants, very like large pine cones. Z. hor.
rida, the finest; Z. pingens, Z. sptralis, and Z. latifolia, are
the most conspicuous. They must be kept in the warmest
part of the green-house; and give them large well-drained
pots, watering sparingly during winter. They are imported
trom the Cape of Good Hope. (Soil No. 11.)
All the plants herein named requiring to be drained, in pre-
paring the pots, place first a piece of broken pot, oyster:
shell, or any similar substitute, with the convex side on the
hole of the pot, and then put in a few, or a handful (accord-
ing to the size of the pot) of shivers of broken pots, or
round grayel about the size of garden beans. Those that
March. | GREEN-HOUSE---REPOTTING. 261
we have mentioned in this Repotting, 1s to be done in this
or beginning of next month, is not intended to apply to
plants in general, large and small, but to those that are
young, and require encouragement, or to those that were not
shifted last autumn. The roots must not be disturbed, but
the ball turned out entire; and put as much earth as will
raise the ball within about half an inch of the rim of the pot.
Press the earth down around it with a thin narrow piece of
wood, called a potting stick, frequently shaking it that no
vacancy may be left. If the roots are rotten, or otherwise
injured, take all such off. If this be the case, the plant wili
be sickly. Give it a new pot of a smaller size, administering
water moderately until there are visible signs of fresh growth.
The plants must not be disturbed while flowering; let the re-
potting be done afterward. Plants are, at certain stages, if in
good health, in a state that no one can err in shifting them
when desirous to hasten their growth. Those plants that
make two or more growths during the summer may be repotted
in the interim of any of these growths, and all others just be-
fore they begin to push in the spring; that is, when the wood
buds are perceptibly swelled. Never saturate with water
fresh-potted plants. There are many kinds that, without in-
jury, can be repotted when growing. When done potting, tie
all up neatly with stakes rather higher than the plant, that the
new shoots may be tied thereto during the summer, to prevent
them from being destroyed by the wind. There may be many
that do not require repotting, but would be benefited by a
top-dressing. ‘This should be done by probing off all the sur-
face earth down to the roots, replacing it with fresh compost,
suitable to the nature of the plant.
When the above is done, arrange all the plants in proper
order, and syringe them clean; but if there are any of the
green-fly, they must be fumigated previous to syringing. The
pavement of the house should be cleanly and neatly swept
every day, and washed at least once a week. Thus, every part
of the house will be in order before the hurry of the garder
commences.
262 GREEN-HOUSE—OF ENARCHING, ETc. [Murch
OF ENARCHING OR GRAFTING BY APPROACH.
In this method of grafting, the scion is not separated from
the parent plant until it is firmly united with the stock; con-
sequently, they must stand contiguously. We intend the
following method to apply directly to Caméllias, as they are
the principal plants in the green-house that are thus worked.
The criterion for the operation is about the first of March or
June. Place the stock contiguous to the plant where the
graft or enarch is to be taken from. If the branches, where
the intended union is to take place, do not grow at equal
heights, a slight stage may be erected to elevate the lower
pot. ‘Take the branch that is to be enarched (the wood of
last year is the most proper), and bring it in contact with the
stock; mark the parts where they are to unite, so as to form
a pointed arch. In that part of the branch which is to rest
against the stock, pare off the bark and part of the wood to
about two or three inches in length, and in the side of the
stock which is to receive the graft do the same, that the in-
side rind of each may be exactly opposite, which is the first
part where a union will take place. Bind them firndy and
neatly together with strands of Russia matting, and protect
the joint from the air by a coat of close composition ; clay of
the consistency of thick paint, turpentine, or wax, will equally
answer. Finish by fastening the grafted braach to the head
of the stock or a rod. Many practitioneis make a slit or
tongue into the enarch and stock, but we find it unnecersary,
more tedious, and likewise more danger ia breaking. Camél-
lias are also grafted and budded, buc these two operations re-
quire great experience and continued attention, and seldom
prove so successful as enarching. ‘When they have perfectly
taken, which will be in from chree to four months, begin to
separate them by cutting the scion a littie at three different
periods, about a week apart, separating i¢ at the third time.
If the head is intended to be vaken off the stock, do it in like
raanner. By the above method, many kinds cau be grown on
the same stock. The san. pian applies to alt evergreens.
fy
(op)
G2
Aprii.} GREEN-HOUSE—WATERING.
APRIL.
ReGarpineG the shifting or repotting of plants, the direc.
tions given last month may be followed. If the plants that
require it are not shifted, get them done as soon as possible.
Those that were repotted last month will have taken fresh
root in the new soil, and the advantage will soon be per-
ceptible. In order to strengthen the plants, and keep them
from becoming drawn and spindly, admit large portions of
air every mild day. Indeed, there will be very few days
in this month that a little air may not be given, always
observing to divide the quantity regularly over the house,
in cool nights closing in time. About the end of the month
an abundance of air is indispensable, leaving the sashes and
doors open every mild night, that the plants may be inured
to the open exposure they will have in a few weeks.
WATERING.
As the season advances and vegetation increases, the
waterings will require to be more copious and more frequent.
Look over all plants minutely every day, and with judicious
care supply their wants. Those that are of a soft shrubby
nature, and in a free-growing state, will require a larger portion
at one time than those of a hard texture, which may only
want it every two or three days. The weather and situation,
in some instances, may require a modification of these diree-
tions. Plants in general will not suffer soon from being a
little dry as from being over-watered. The health and beauty
of the foliage of the plants may be much improved by syring-
ing them freely three evenings in the week, except in moist
weather, when it ought not to be done. ‘The ravages of many
insects also will be retarded, especially mildew and red spider,
which will be entirely destroyed. If the red spider is on any
of the plants particularly, take them aside evening and morn-
ing, and give them a good dashing with water through the
syringe. Where there is mildew, after syringing the plant,
dust it on the affected parts with flower of sulphur, and set
them for a few days where they will be sheltered from the
264 GREEN-HOUSE—ORANGES, ETC. [April
wind, after which wash off the sulphur. If the cure is not
complete renew the dose. Always sweep out and dry up
the water in the house when any is spilt. The succulent
plants will be in want of a little water about once a week,
but do not over-water them, as there is not heat enough tc
absorb much moisture. If the soil is damp, it is quite suff
cient.
ORANGES, LEMONS, ETC.,
Will, in many instances, about the end of this month, be
showing flowers or flower-buds. They must, under these
circumstances, have plenty of air to prevent them from fall-
ing off when entirely exposed. The reason that we see so
much fine blossom falling to the ground where the trees are
brought out of the house in May, is from the confinement
they have had. Where there isa convenience of giving air
from the back of the green-house, it should always be given
in mild days, especially in those houses that have a recess back
from the top of the sashes, for even if the sashes are let down
every day, still the house will not be properly ventilated.
Any plants that are sickly and intended to be planted in the
garden next month to renovate their growth, may be cut back
Gf not already done) as far as is required to give the tree a
handsome form, taking care not to cut below the graft of
inoculation. Let the operation be done with a fine saw and
sharp knife, smoothing the amputations that are made by the
saw; and if they are large, put a little well-made clay over
the wound, to prevent the air from injuring it. Beeswax and
turpentine are preferable to clay, not being subject to crack or
fall off by the weather.
If there are any Lagerstreemias, Pomegranate, or LHy-
drangeas in the cellar, they should be brought out about the
first of the month, and planted in their respective situations.
Give the Hydrangea a very shady spot. It does not require
much sun, provided it has plenty of air, and do not plant it
into soil that has been lately manured. A large plant must
have great supplies of water in dry weather. If the plant is
very thick, the oldest branches may be thinned out, but do not
evt out any of the young shoots, as they contain the embrya
of the flower. Lagerstramias will flower abundantly without
April. | GREEN-HOUSE—GERANIUMS. 265
pruning, but, to have-fine large spikes of flowers, cut in the
wood of last year to about three eyes from the wood of the
preceding year; by this they will be much finer. Pome-
granates will only require a little of the superfluous wood cut
out. Perhaps some of them may be desired to flower in pot
or tabs during summer ; the balls will admit of being much
reduced, and by this a pot or tub very little larger will do
for them. Do not give much water until they begin to grow
MYRTLES AND OLEANDERS.
If any of these have grown irregularly, and are not headed
down or otherwise pruned, as directed last month, it should
now be done. Oleanders are very subject to the white scaly
insect, and, before the heat of summer begins, they should
be completely cleansed. This insect is likewise found on
Myriles, which are worse to clean, and ought to be minutely
examined twice every year. We have observed the red spider
on these shrubs, which makes the foliage brown and unsightly.
If it is detected in time, syringing is an effectual remedy.
GERANIUMS.
These will now begin to flower, arid the sun will greatly
deteriorate their rich colours where they are near the glass
with a southern aspect. The glass should be whitewashed
or covered with thin muslin, which will cast a light shade
over them, and prolong the duratioa of the bloom; but if
they are above five feet from the glass, shading is not re-
quisite. The strong kinds will be growing very luxuriantly,
and require liberal supplies of water. When syringing, do
not sprinkle the flowers, as it would make the colours inter-
mingle with each other, and cause them to decay prema-
turely, If they have been properly attended to in that
respect, it may be dispensed with after they have come in
flower.
Cape Bulbs. Those that flowered late in autumn, as
soon as the foliage begins to decay, may be set aside, and
the water withheld by degrees. When the foliage is en-
tirely gone, and the roots dry, clear them from the earth,
9 “
266 GREEN-HOUSE—INSKCTS. [Apru
and after lying exposed in the shade for a few days to dry,
pack them up in dry moss, with their respective names
attached, until August, when they may be again potted.
Treat those that are in flower the same as directed in last
month.
Dutch Roots. All the species and varieties of these that
have been kept in the green-house during the winter will now
be done flowering; the water should be withdrawn gradually
from them; and then the pots turned on their sides to ripen
the bulbs. Or, a superior method is, where there is the con-
venience of a garden, to select a bed not much exposed.
Turn the balls out of the pots and plant them; the roots will
ripen better this way than any other. Have them correctly
marked, that no error may take place. They can be lifted
with the other garden bulbs.
e
FLOWERING PLANTS
The best situation for most plants, while in flower, is
where they are shaded from the sun, and fully exposed to
the air. Primroses, both Huropean and Chinese, flower
best, and the colours are finest, where the plants are in the
front of the house and entirely shaded. The Chinese Azaleas
and Rhododéndrons require, while in flower, a similar situa-
tion. Have all the shoots tied naturally to neat rods, and
keep them clear from others by elevating them on empty
pots, or any other substitute. See that there are no insects
upon them; for they make a miserable contrast with flowers.
The Calla Avthiopica should stand in water when in bloom,
and even before flowering they will be much strengthened
by it.
INSECTS.
Insects will, on some plants, be very perplexing The
weather may admit of those that are infected to be taken
out of doors, and put into a frame in any way that is most
convenient. Iumigating them about fifteen minutes, if the
day is calm, will be sufficient; but if ‘windy, they will take
half an hour. When done, syringe them well, and put
them in their respective situations. By the above method
Apriv.] GREEN-HOUSE—FI WERING STOCKS. 267
the hous will not be made disagreeable with the fumes of
tobacco.
Tie up neatly all the climbing plants. Keep those that
are running up the rafters of the house close to the longi-
tudinal wires. As previously observed, running plants should
not be taken across the house, except in some instances where
it can be done over the pathway, otherwise it shades the house
too much. Clear off all decayed leaves and all contracted
foulness, that the house and plants may in this month have
an enlivening aspect, as it is undoubtedly one of the most in-
teresting seasons of the year in the green-house.
FLOWERING STOCKS.
Those that have been kept in the green-house, or in frames,
should be jp aah into beds or the borders, where they will
seed better than if kept in the pots. The method generally
adopted is, to select the plants that are intended for seed;
plant the different kinds distinctly and separately ; then take
a few double-flowering plants of each kind, which plant round
their respective single varieties that are to be kept for seed.
Whenever any of the colours sport, that-is, become spotted or
striped with other colours, plant such by themselves, tor they
will soon degenerate the whole, and ought never to be seen in
collections that have any pretensions to purity. Many have
been the plans recommended as the best for saving and grow-
ing from seed the double varieties of German stock. In every
method we have tried we have been successful and unsuccess-
ful; although we generally practise planting the double kinds
beside the single, where they are intended for seed. We have
no scientific reason for it; not seeing what influence these
monsters of flowers can have over a flower where the male
and female organs are perfect; which in these are wanting.
Some say that the semi-double sorts are best; we have like-
wise found them both abortive and fruitful in the desired
results.
268 GREEN-HOUSE—WATERING, ETC. [ May.
MAY.
Axcut the first of the month all the small half-hardy plants
may be taken out of the green-house, and those that are left
will be more benefited by a freer circulation of air, which will
inure them to exposure. The Geraniums ought to stand per-
fectly clear of other plants, while in flower and growing, or
they will be much drawn and spindly.
WATERING.
We have advanced so much on this subject, another obser-
vation is not necessary, except as to succulents, which are
frequently over-watered about this period. Before they begin
to grow, once a week is sufficient.
OF BRINGING OUT THE GREEN-HOUSE PLANTS.
Those trees or plants of Orange, Lemon, Myrtle, Nerium,
&c., that were headed down with the intention of planting
them into the garden, to renovate their growth, should be
brought out and planted in the situations intended for them.
A good light rich soil well do for either, and the balls of earth
might bea little reduced, that when they are lifted, they might
go into the same pot or tub, or perhaps a less one. This being
done, the plants, generally in a calm day from the 12th to the
18th of the month, should be taken out, carrying them directly
to a situation partially shaded from the sun, and protected
from the wind. In regard to a situation best adapted for them
during summer, see fot-house this month, which will equally
apply to green-house plants. All Primroses and Polyanthus
delight in shade. The reason of so many plants of the D.
oddra* dying, is from the effects of the sun and water. We
keep them always in the green-hgyse.
* On examining these plants, when the first appearance of decay
affected them, the decayed part was without exception at the surface
of the soil, which was completely mortified, while the top and roots
were apparently fresh. This led us to conclude that the cause was
the effect of sun and water on the stem. We have since kept the
REPOTTING PLANTS. 265
May. GREEN-HOUSE
y
The large trees may be fancifully set either in a spot for
the purpose, or through the garden. Put bricks or pieces 9f
wood under the tubs to prevent them from rotting, and strow:
a little litter of any description over the surface of the soil to
prevent evaporation, or about one inch of well-decayed ma-
nure, which will, from the waterings, help to enrich the soil.
A liberal supply of water two or three times a week is suffi-
cient.